Glory of the Emerald Empire (Legend of the 5 Rings Quest)
- Thread starter Winged Knight
- Start date
- Fantasy
Theunderbolt
"Prepare for trouble..."
- Location
- USoA
[X] Go. Bid Talak'tet farewell.
-[X] They will tell us what it's about when they wish us to know. We will go quietly.
-[X] They will tell us what it's about when they wish us to know. We will go quietly.
1.39
Winged Knight
Still just a crazy man with a wolf on his head
- Location
- Texas
[X] Go. Bid Talak'tet farewell.
-[x] If its not too presumptuous, ask what this is about on the way.
You release your hold on Gazat'ken and stand, shaking only a little at the exertion. You bow to Talak'tet, who is still holding his comrade's hand in his own. The older Nezumi looks up at you, and nods.
"Farewell for now, Talak'tet," you say. "I hope we see each other again soon."
"Yes," Talak'tet says, turning his gaze back to Gazat'ken's still form. "Yes. That would be good."
You turn away and see the man who has come to fetch you. He is like you, a young Samurai. He's only wearing part of his armor, the leg and arm guards. His chest is swathed in bandages, but he otherwise seems all right. He does not grip his wounds, but rather holds his hand on the hilt of his katana. He seems ready to draw at a moments notice, alert to his surroundings.
Considering how this day has gone, you cannot blame him.
You walk with the man out of the barracks and through the town. You can smell smoke on the wind, and the scent of charred flesh. The smell of corpses burning, both those of the enemy and of those loyal to the Empire. To leave a dead body whole in the Shadowlands is foolish in the extreme. It would only rise a few days later, ready to assault the living.
The messenger leads you through the market district, where even now merchants are selling their wares. Despite that just a few hours ago there was an attack, it seems business marches on. The sight of it makes your lips curl up a little in distaste, but you do not feel the same enmity that many other Samurai do for commerce. To the Crab, merchants are but another tool to gain resources for the eternal war. To do its duty, the Crab will suffer these minor shames. It is nothing in comparison to the dishonor of failure.
Besides, you're too caught up in just how clean the air is here. Even with the smoke, the ever-present smell of rot and decay is gone. The air is fresh, and the soil beneath your feet is healthy. Fresh grass and trees even grow in little gardens by the houses. You stand on untainted ground, and after so many days in the Shadowlands it is a bit of a wonder to you. You'd almost forgotten there was more to the world than that awful place.
"If it is not too bold," you ask as you walk. "Could I know what this is about?"
Your guide looks back at you over his shoulder. "The Daimyo's business is her own, and best left to more private quarters."
You shrug. That's a fair enough answer.
Soon enough, you come upon the Headman's castle. Normally a village, even one as large as Shinsei's Last Hope, would not warrant even a small castle. Instead there would merely be a Headman's mansion. But this is one of the only outposts the Crab have in the Shadowlands, which warrants more resources. Without staging grounds such as this village and Shiro Hiruma, it would be far more difficult to scout the Shadowlands effectively.
A Shugenja by the door mutters a chant and strikes both you and your guide with a shining orb of Jade. It is a spell. The Jade Strike spell, to be precise. It shatters harmlessly off your flesh, as it does of the guide. The Shugenja nods, and then allows you entry.
It is a short walk then to the reception room. The guide opens the door, but does not enter. You give him a small bow as thanks for his service, and then walk into the room.
There, sitting seiza in full armor, is Kuni Mayu. She is a tall woman, and her face paint is smudged with smoke and grime. Her armor, likewise, is coated with dried blood. It looks as if she has just gotten away from the battlefield. A few streaks of silver dash through her long black hair, but all that does is give her presence more weight. There is power in this woman's gaze, an unyielding strength.
You get on your knees and bow to her, planting your forehead on the floor. Kuni Mayu is one of the most powerful Shugenja in the world, and the head of the Kuni Family. To give less than this in deference would be the height of dishonor. Like many Crab, you are not one for courtly manners, but this woman has earned your respect many times over with all she has done for the Clan.
"Rise, child," she says, her voice somewhat hoarse. It is likely from all the smoke from the battlefield. She continues speaking once you have come to a sitting position. "They tell me you are one of the ones responsible for this village's survival today."
"I was merely doing my duty, Kuni Mayu-sama," you say in response.
"So you did," she says. "So you did." She motions a hand in the direction of the city's entrance. "Three hundred dead, and over six hundred wounded. If the beasts of the Shadowlands had taken us unawares, then it would have been so much worse." She grimaces. "We might not have survived at all."
"I am pleased that was not the case," you say. "I wish I could have been there for the battle."
"You've done more than enough as it is, Hiruma Sosuke," Kuni Mayu says with a snort. "But I'm hoping you can help us more." She places her hands on her knees and leans forward. "Tell me all you experienced on your march to the village. Leave out no details. This is the biggest assault I've seen in the last twenty years, and I want to know just exactly what we're dealing with here."
[] Write in.
-[x] If its not too presumptuous, ask what this is about on the way.
You release your hold on Gazat'ken and stand, shaking only a little at the exertion. You bow to Talak'tet, who is still holding his comrade's hand in his own. The older Nezumi looks up at you, and nods.
"Farewell for now, Talak'tet," you say. "I hope we see each other again soon."
"Yes," Talak'tet says, turning his gaze back to Gazat'ken's still form. "Yes. That would be good."
You turn away and see the man who has come to fetch you. He is like you, a young Samurai. He's only wearing part of his armor, the leg and arm guards. His chest is swathed in bandages, but he otherwise seems all right. He does not grip his wounds, but rather holds his hand on the hilt of his katana. He seems ready to draw at a moments notice, alert to his surroundings.
Considering how this day has gone, you cannot blame him.
You walk with the man out of the barracks and through the town. You can smell smoke on the wind, and the scent of charred flesh. The smell of corpses burning, both those of the enemy and of those loyal to the Empire. To leave a dead body whole in the Shadowlands is foolish in the extreme. It would only rise a few days later, ready to assault the living.
The messenger leads you through the market district, where even now merchants are selling their wares. Despite that just a few hours ago there was an attack, it seems business marches on. The sight of it makes your lips curl up a little in distaste, but you do not feel the same enmity that many other Samurai do for commerce. To the Crab, merchants are but another tool to gain resources for the eternal war. To do its duty, the Crab will suffer these minor shames. It is nothing in comparison to the dishonor of failure.
Besides, you're too caught up in just how clean the air is here. Even with the smoke, the ever-present smell of rot and decay is gone. The air is fresh, and the soil beneath your feet is healthy. Fresh grass and trees even grow in little gardens by the houses. You stand on untainted ground, and after so many days in the Shadowlands it is a bit of a wonder to you. You'd almost forgotten there was more to the world than that awful place.
"If it is not too bold," you ask as you walk. "Could I know what this is about?"
Your guide looks back at you over his shoulder. "The Daimyo's business is her own, and best left to more private quarters."
You shrug. That's a fair enough answer.
Soon enough, you come upon the Headman's castle. Normally a village, even one as large as Shinsei's Last Hope, would not warrant even a small castle. Instead there would merely be a Headman's mansion. But this is one of the only outposts the Crab have in the Shadowlands, which warrants more resources. Without staging grounds such as this village and Shiro Hiruma, it would be far more difficult to scout the Shadowlands effectively.
A Shugenja by the door mutters a chant and strikes both you and your guide with a shining orb of Jade. It is a spell. The Jade Strike spell, to be precise. It shatters harmlessly off your flesh, as it does of the guide. The Shugenja nods, and then allows you entry.
It is a short walk then to the reception room. The guide opens the door, but does not enter. You give him a small bow as thanks for his service, and then walk into the room.
There, sitting seiza in full armor, is Kuni Mayu. She is a tall woman, and her face paint is smudged with smoke and grime. Her armor, likewise, is coated with dried blood. It looks as if she has just gotten away from the battlefield. A few streaks of silver dash through her long black hair, but all that does is give her presence more weight. There is power in this woman's gaze, an unyielding strength.
You get on your knees and bow to her, planting your forehead on the floor. Kuni Mayu is one of the most powerful Shugenja in the world, and the head of the Kuni Family. To give less than this in deference would be the height of dishonor. Like many Crab, you are not one for courtly manners, but this woman has earned your respect many times over with all she has done for the Clan.
"Rise, child," she says, her voice somewhat hoarse. It is likely from all the smoke from the battlefield. She continues speaking once you have come to a sitting position. "They tell me you are one of the ones responsible for this village's survival today."
"I was merely doing my duty, Kuni Mayu-sama," you say in response.
"So you did," she says. "So you did." She motions a hand in the direction of the city's entrance. "Three hundred dead, and over six hundred wounded. If the beasts of the Shadowlands had taken us unawares, then it would have been so much worse." She grimaces. "We might not have survived at all."
"I am pleased that was not the case," you say. "I wish I could have been there for the battle."
"You've done more than enough as it is, Hiruma Sosuke," Kuni Mayu says with a snort. "But I'm hoping you can help us more." She places her hands on her knees and leans forward. "Tell me all you experienced on your march to the village. Leave out no details. This is the biggest assault I've seen in the last twenty years, and I want to know just exactly what we're dealing with here."
[] Write in.
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Dirtnap
Kanmusu Affecionado
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
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Sirrocco
Pedantic
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
I assume you want a write-in like this, rather than us actually trying to summarize everything that happened.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
I assume you want a write-in like this, rather than us actually trying to summarize everything that happened.
GilliamYaeger
M'crazy.
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as we can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
Goddamnit Sirrocco how do you keep doing this so consistently?! You're like a fucking brilliant write-in machine.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
Goddamnit Sirrocco how do you keep doing this so consistently?! You're like a fucking brilliant write-in machine.
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The Sandman
So Zetta Slowpoke
- Location
- Wherever I am, which isn't where I'm not
[X] Tell her everything, in the same fashion that we would give an after-action report to a superior officer.
-[X] Make especially sure to mention the tunnel network, the paucity of creatures in the Shadowlands, and a thorough description of the man who tried to kill us in our dreams (including that his personal name is likely Kyosuke)
-[X] Make especially sure to mention the tunnel network, the paucity of creatures in the Shadowlands, and a thorough description of the man who tried to kill us in our dreams (including that his personal name is likely Kyosuke)
Sirrocco
Pedantic
You clearly have never been in a quest with @EarthScorpion.
EtchedSteel
*mumble mumble*
- Location
- Lima. Peru
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as we can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
You are participating/have participated in a L5R campaign, aren't you Sirrocco?
EDIT: I can recall ES participating in Tempera's Fragmentation (Warframe) Quest...
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
You are participating/have participated in a L5R campaign, aren't you Sirrocco?
EDIT: I can recall ES participating in Tempera's Fragmentation (Warframe) Quest...
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Sirrocco
Pedantic
I used to play the card game pretty heavily, once owned the base book for one of the early versions of the RPG, and spent a fair amount of time reading the associated fic on their website a couple of years ago, but I've never actually played in a game.
Happerry
Bat out of Hell
- Location
- Kanto
[X] Tell her everything, in the same fashion that we would give an after-action report to a superior officer.
-[X] Make especially sure to mention the tunnel network, the paucity of creatures in the Shadowlands, and a thorough description of the man who tried to kill us in our dreams (including that his personal name is likely Kyosuke)
-[X] Make especially sure to mention the tunnel network, the paucity of creatures in the Shadowlands, and a thorough description of the man who tried to kill us in our dreams (including that his personal name is likely Kyosuke)
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as we can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
Noctum
Dual Paradox
- Location
- Under the Skies Above
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
Cornuthaum
Be kind to each other.
- Location
- Austria
- Pronouns
- He/Him
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
And if we still have it, we should go about making sure that the map of the tunnels that we took off the Warmaster finds itself into the Daimyo's hands. I'm still worried to the extreme that they can tunnel near to the base of the Kaiu Kabe, even if the foundations are probably too deep to be tunnelled under.
@Winged Knight: Is it OK to do write-ins in character to detail the actions (similar to what I have done when I saw this quest, with the ogre) or should one stick to [x] write-ins?
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
And if we still have it, we should go about making sure that the map of the tunnels that we took off the Warmaster finds itself into the Daimyo's hands. I'm still worried to the extreme that they can tunnel near to the base of the Kaiu Kabe, even if the foundations are probably too deep to be tunnelled under.
@Winged Knight: Is it OK to do write-ins in character to detail the actions (similar to what I have done when I saw this quest, with the ogre) or should one stick to [x] write-ins?
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[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
- Location
- The Old World
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
This is a really good Quest so far as the writing and the pacing is just right.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
This is a really good Quest so far as the writing and the pacing is just right.
1.40
Winged Knight
Still just a crazy man with a wolf on his head
- Location
- Texas
I'll take write ins however you make them so long as they are organized and they win the vote.
And now, it is time to finish up the Gempukku arc.
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
You tell her everything, keeping no secrets from the Kuni Daimyo. You speak of meeting Yori, and of the Mantis ship that must have wrecked just a week ago. You speak of meeting the Nezumi, and of the battle with the Goblins and the Ogre. You tell her of the plans you found, of deciphering their intent. You even speak of losing your temper with the Goblin, though Kuni Mayu merely waves a hand at that. She seems unbothered by the minor shame involved with that incident, especially in the face of the Warmonger's slanderous lies.
And then, after a moment's reluctance, you describe your dreams. You tell of the nightmares you've had, and of this mysterious woman who has appeared to shield you. You speak of Kyosuke, who apparently organized the assaults on Shinsei's Last Hope and Shiro Hiruma, as well as the woman again with how she rescued you from the Dark Lord's attack.
Kuni Mayu is silent for some time, deep in thought. She closes her eyes, and you almost think she is meditating. You stay where you are and keep silent, though the longer this goes on the more tired you become. You feel like you could sleep for another two days straight.
"So he is called Kyosuke," she says at last, snapping you out of the stupor you were falling in to. "That is the name of the one who has ended these last twenty years of peace my husband gave to me."
You do not speak, but your confusion must have shown on your face. Kuni Mayu gives a sad smile, her lips drawing a tight line.
"Have you not heard the mutterings, child?" she asks. "Of old soldiers talking about how quiet the Shadowlands have been? We have had no attacks of any appreciable size since my husband, Kakita Zhuge, went forth with his allies and assaulted the City of White Clouds to repulse the Shadow Dragon. During this time the Crab have had two blessed decades to bolster our strength."
"And time for some in the other Clans to speak questions of whether or not we require all the resources we ask of," you say bitterly. Your eyes go wide, and then your face flushes with shame that you have spoken so casually with the head of a Family.
"Yes," Kuni Mayu says evenly. If she cares at all about your faux pa, she does not show it. "That too."
You pause for a few seconds, trying to gather your thoughts. Kuni Mayu says nothing, merely staring at you with eyes that seem so much older than they should be. This woman has experienced so much in her life, and her knowledge is no doubt extensive. You have to keep yourself from fidgeting a little under her gaze.
"If I may be so bold," you say. "I would like to ask you a question."
"You may."
"The woman in my dreams… Do you know who she is?" You frown, trying to find the right words. "I could never see her face, but she did help me. I'm not so sure she is human, though."
"I very much doubt that she is," Kuni Mayu says. "She sounds like some sort of spirit who has taken an interest in you." She leans forward. "Be very careful, Hiruma Sosuke. The ways of spirits are strange, and often seem nonsensical to mortals. Though she has appeared helpful now, the moods of spirits are mercurial. Just the very fact that you have told me of her might rouse her anger. I would not spread word of your meetings with her too far."
Kuni Mayu's words make your eyebrows rise in alarm. You hadn't thought of that. There are many tales of spirits doing odd things to mortals, helping one second and harming the next for their own inscrutable reasons. And this dream woman, if woman she truly be, had enough skill and power to snatch you away from powerful Maho. Which, thinking about it, brings you to another topic you feel you must discuss.
"There is also the matter of this Kyosuke," you say, moving the conversation along. "He's apparently noticed what I've done to disturb his plans. We might be able to use that to our advantage."
"Perhaps," Kuni Mayu says. "But if he was intelligent enough to coordinate an assault of this measure, and powerful enough to draw on the bloodshed of these events to attack you in dreams, then we must act under the assumption that he is not a fool. If his anger at you is a tool we can use, it is one to use at the best possible moment. We must not squander any advantage."
You nod. Her words make sense. While it might be possible to gain a temporary advantage using Kyosuke's anger within the next few weeks, chances are more likely that he would simply catch on to the ruse and act accordingly. No, it is best to wait. This is a tool that must be used at the most opportune moment, when the Crab can crush this vile monster utterly.
"We have spoken enough of such things," Kuni Mayu says. She raises a hand, and a swirl of air forms above her finger before releasing a booming gong sound. Two men enter holding a small table between them. Atop that table is the head of the Ogre you slew. "I am not your mother, nor am I your Sensei or Family Daimyo. But for what you have done, I will complete your Gempukku."
Kuni Mayu rises to her feet, and you immediately bow low. She is standing over you, judging you. You can feel her eyes boring into your skull, and you know that you are being weighed. You can only hope you are not found wanting.
"Who are you, who has come before me bearing the head of one of the enemy?" she asks, her tone commanding. "How are you known?"
"A servant," you say immediately. "But one of many who stands against the darkness so our glorious Empire might live."
"And would you do as you have done every day, Servant of the Empire?" she asks. "Would you risk your life, your very soul, so that total strangers may know peace?"
"Yes," you say. "Without hesitation. I will be the shield that guards the realm of men. I will be the Wall."
"Rise."
You do so slowly, your legs trembling after all the sitting you've done. Now, more than ever, you can appreciate just how hard you pushed yourself. You're so very tired, but you know you cannot rest yet. Even still, you have a hard time keeping your eyes open.
Though that gets much easier when Kuni Mayu draws her sword and rests her blade against your throat. You have to keep yourself from flinching, for the edge of her katana is so close that the slightest movement will shed your blood.
"Know, Servant of the Empire," she says slowly, her expression hard as stone. "That to walk this path you must live every day as if you have a sword at your neck. Ours is a war that never ends, and we can never fail. Do you understand this? Can you bear this burden?"
You very carefully do not meet Kuni Mayu's eyes, for that would be an insult. You also make sure not to look at the blade so close to slicing open your skin. You look beyond Kuni Mayu, staring into the distance.
"I accept this responsibility," you say.
Kuni Mayu sheathes her sword. "Then you are now an adult. I welcome you, young man, as a fellow member of the Crab." She puts a hand on your shoulder. "Go, and get some sleep. You will have many duties to perform in the future. Meet them as best you can."
You bow to Kuni Mayu, and she nods in response. Then, without any more ceremony, she leaves the room. Her footsteps are heavy upon the wood, like the sound of bells ringing judgement. Judgement that you, at this moment, have not been found wanting. You can barely restrain a sigh of relief.
You are now an adult. It is a strange experience, and you find yourself uncertain. Should you feel different now? Was this moment not enough to change you from the boy you once were?
Then you realize it. It is not the completion of the ceremony that marks you as changed, but the journey itself toward that ending. You are not the same person you were four days ago. You have grown, and have now taken the first step on your road to being a true Samurai.
One of servants who carried in the Ogre's head leads you down a hallway and into a small bedroom, well furnished if sparsely decorated. You give him a nod, and he bows to you. Once he is gone, you slip out of your robes and into the bed, welcoming its soft embrace.
Soon enough, you are asleep. And, for what seems like the first time in forever, you do not dream at all.
Congratulations! You have completed the first part of this Quest! Sosuke is now an adult, and many more adventures await him in the future! I hope you stick around to enjoy them with him.
In the meantime, there are rewards to be given! You have accomplished much on this short journey, and Sosuke has grown as a person. What you see below are reflections of that.
Honor
Sosuke has done many honorable things on this journey. He has given aid to allies, fought against terrible foes and kept difficult promises. Despite the one incident of losing his temper, he has acted just as a true Samurai should. For this, he has gained 15 points of Honor.
Glory
Sosuke's deeds have not gone unnoticed, and for all he has accomplished his fame will grow. For fighting against terrible odds and being instrumental in the safety of both Shiro Hiruma and Shinsei's Last Hope, Sosuke has gained two full ranks of Glory. That is 20 points.
Experience
Throughout his journey Sosuke has grown much in mind, body, spirit and skill. He is no longer the boy he was. Now, he is a man. To represent this advancement, Sosuke has gained 10 experience points.
I will be handing out, or taking away, from these categories more often now that Sosuke has completed his Gempukku. The numbers will be smaller, but you will receive them more frequently. Sosuke now has 12 experience points total, which is quite a bit to play around with. You could bump a Attribute up to 3, or perhaps increase your skills. You could even purchase new skills, if you so desire, or save the points to use at a later time.
I will give you till Thursday to determine what you all wish to do with Sosuke's experience points, as well as what you desire for his name. I will allow you to keep it as Sosuke, or change it should a new name win the vote.
Thank you all so much for playing. I hope you all stay with me as the story continues.
And now, it is time to finish up the Gempukku arc.
[X] Tell her everything, in as much detail as you can muster. Leave nothing out.
[X] In particular, mention the oddities with your dreams, and what sense you've managed to make of them.
- [X] Note that if she has any insight on the matter of the lady, you would be honored to hear it.
- [X] Further note how you've apparently drawn the personal enmity of a powerful creature of the Shadowlands
[X] Acknowledge your own shame in the matter of losing your temper with the goblin.
You tell her everything, keeping no secrets from the Kuni Daimyo. You speak of meeting Yori, and of the Mantis ship that must have wrecked just a week ago. You speak of meeting the Nezumi, and of the battle with the Goblins and the Ogre. You tell her of the plans you found, of deciphering their intent. You even speak of losing your temper with the Goblin, though Kuni Mayu merely waves a hand at that. She seems unbothered by the minor shame involved with that incident, especially in the face of the Warmonger's slanderous lies.
And then, after a moment's reluctance, you describe your dreams. You tell of the nightmares you've had, and of this mysterious woman who has appeared to shield you. You speak of Kyosuke, who apparently organized the assaults on Shinsei's Last Hope and Shiro Hiruma, as well as the woman again with how she rescued you from the Dark Lord's attack.
Kuni Mayu is silent for some time, deep in thought. She closes her eyes, and you almost think she is meditating. You stay where you are and keep silent, though the longer this goes on the more tired you become. You feel like you could sleep for another two days straight.
"So he is called Kyosuke," she says at last, snapping you out of the stupor you were falling in to. "That is the name of the one who has ended these last twenty years of peace my husband gave to me."
You do not speak, but your confusion must have shown on your face. Kuni Mayu gives a sad smile, her lips drawing a tight line.
"Have you not heard the mutterings, child?" she asks. "Of old soldiers talking about how quiet the Shadowlands have been? We have had no attacks of any appreciable size since my husband, Kakita Zhuge, went forth with his allies and assaulted the City of White Clouds to repulse the Shadow Dragon. During this time the Crab have had two blessed decades to bolster our strength."
"And time for some in the other Clans to speak questions of whether or not we require all the resources we ask of," you say bitterly. Your eyes go wide, and then your face flushes with shame that you have spoken so casually with the head of a Family.
"Yes," Kuni Mayu says evenly. If she cares at all about your faux pa, she does not show it. "That too."
You pause for a few seconds, trying to gather your thoughts. Kuni Mayu says nothing, merely staring at you with eyes that seem so much older than they should be. This woman has experienced so much in her life, and her knowledge is no doubt extensive. You have to keep yourself from fidgeting a little under her gaze.
"If I may be so bold," you say. "I would like to ask you a question."
"You may."
"The woman in my dreams… Do you know who she is?" You frown, trying to find the right words. "I could never see her face, but she did help me. I'm not so sure she is human, though."
"I very much doubt that she is," Kuni Mayu says. "She sounds like some sort of spirit who has taken an interest in you." She leans forward. "Be very careful, Hiruma Sosuke. The ways of spirits are strange, and often seem nonsensical to mortals. Though she has appeared helpful now, the moods of spirits are mercurial. Just the very fact that you have told me of her might rouse her anger. I would not spread word of your meetings with her too far."
Kuni Mayu's words make your eyebrows rise in alarm. You hadn't thought of that. There are many tales of spirits doing odd things to mortals, helping one second and harming the next for their own inscrutable reasons. And this dream woman, if woman she truly be, had enough skill and power to snatch you away from powerful Maho. Which, thinking about it, brings you to another topic you feel you must discuss.
"There is also the matter of this Kyosuke," you say, moving the conversation along. "He's apparently noticed what I've done to disturb his plans. We might be able to use that to our advantage."
"Perhaps," Kuni Mayu says. "But if he was intelligent enough to coordinate an assault of this measure, and powerful enough to draw on the bloodshed of these events to attack you in dreams, then we must act under the assumption that he is not a fool. If his anger at you is a tool we can use, it is one to use at the best possible moment. We must not squander any advantage."
You nod. Her words make sense. While it might be possible to gain a temporary advantage using Kyosuke's anger within the next few weeks, chances are more likely that he would simply catch on to the ruse and act accordingly. No, it is best to wait. This is a tool that must be used at the most opportune moment, when the Crab can crush this vile monster utterly.
"We have spoken enough of such things," Kuni Mayu says. She raises a hand, and a swirl of air forms above her finger before releasing a booming gong sound. Two men enter holding a small table between them. Atop that table is the head of the Ogre you slew. "I am not your mother, nor am I your Sensei or Family Daimyo. But for what you have done, I will complete your Gempukku."
Kuni Mayu rises to her feet, and you immediately bow low. She is standing over you, judging you. You can feel her eyes boring into your skull, and you know that you are being weighed. You can only hope you are not found wanting.
"Who are you, who has come before me bearing the head of one of the enemy?" she asks, her tone commanding. "How are you known?"
"A servant," you say immediately. "But one of many who stands against the darkness so our glorious Empire might live."
"And would you do as you have done every day, Servant of the Empire?" she asks. "Would you risk your life, your very soul, so that total strangers may know peace?"
"Yes," you say. "Without hesitation. I will be the shield that guards the realm of men. I will be the Wall."
"Rise."
You do so slowly, your legs trembling after all the sitting you've done. Now, more than ever, you can appreciate just how hard you pushed yourself. You're so very tired, but you know you cannot rest yet. Even still, you have a hard time keeping your eyes open.
Though that gets much easier when Kuni Mayu draws her sword and rests her blade against your throat. You have to keep yourself from flinching, for the edge of her katana is so close that the slightest movement will shed your blood.
"Know, Servant of the Empire," she says slowly, her expression hard as stone. "That to walk this path you must live every day as if you have a sword at your neck. Ours is a war that never ends, and we can never fail. Do you understand this? Can you bear this burden?"
You very carefully do not meet Kuni Mayu's eyes, for that would be an insult. You also make sure not to look at the blade so close to slicing open your skin. You look beyond Kuni Mayu, staring into the distance.
"I accept this responsibility," you say.
Kuni Mayu sheathes her sword. "Then you are now an adult. I welcome you, young man, as a fellow member of the Crab." She puts a hand on your shoulder. "Go, and get some sleep. You will have many duties to perform in the future. Meet them as best you can."
You bow to Kuni Mayu, and she nods in response. Then, without any more ceremony, she leaves the room. Her footsteps are heavy upon the wood, like the sound of bells ringing judgement. Judgement that you, at this moment, have not been found wanting. You can barely restrain a sigh of relief.
You are now an adult. It is a strange experience, and you find yourself uncertain. Should you feel different now? Was this moment not enough to change you from the boy you once were?
Then you realize it. It is not the completion of the ceremony that marks you as changed, but the journey itself toward that ending. You are not the same person you were four days ago. You have grown, and have now taken the first step on your road to being a true Samurai.
One of servants who carried in the Ogre's head leads you down a hallway and into a small bedroom, well furnished if sparsely decorated. You give him a nod, and he bows to you. Once he is gone, you slip out of your robes and into the bed, welcoming its soft embrace.
Soon enough, you are asleep. And, for what seems like the first time in forever, you do not dream at all.
*****
Congratulations! You have completed the first part of this Quest! Sosuke is now an adult, and many more adventures await him in the future! I hope you stick around to enjoy them with him.
In the meantime, there are rewards to be given! You have accomplished much on this short journey, and Sosuke has grown as a person. What you see below are reflections of that.
Honor
Sosuke has done many honorable things on this journey. He has given aid to allies, fought against terrible foes and kept difficult promises. Despite the one incident of losing his temper, he has acted just as a true Samurai should. For this, he has gained 15 points of Honor.
Glory
Sosuke's deeds have not gone unnoticed, and for all he has accomplished his fame will grow. For fighting against terrible odds and being instrumental in the safety of both Shiro Hiruma and Shinsei's Last Hope, Sosuke has gained two full ranks of Glory. That is 20 points.
Experience
Throughout his journey Sosuke has grown much in mind, body, spirit and skill. He is no longer the boy he was. Now, he is a man. To represent this advancement, Sosuke has gained 10 experience points.
I will be handing out, or taking away, from these categories more often now that Sosuke has completed his Gempukku. The numbers will be smaller, but you will receive them more frequently. Sosuke now has 12 experience points total, which is quite a bit to play around with. You could bump a Attribute up to 3, or perhaps increase your skills. You could even purchase new skills, if you so desire, or save the points to use at a later time.
I will give you till Thursday to determine what you all wish to do with Sosuke's experience points, as well as what you desire for his name. I will allow you to keep it as Sosuke, or change it should a new name win the vote.
Thank you all so much for playing. I hope you all stay with me as the story continues.
Last edited:
Dirtnap
Kanmusu Affecionado
[x] Keep the name of Souske
As much as we should and do feel indebted to ratbro, long may his life be praised, it's not enough to warrant changing our name, I'm quite attached to Souske.
As for spending experience and what not, I have no idea so I'll let others do all the hard work there.
As much as we should and do feel indebted to ratbro, long may his life be praised, it's not enough to warrant changing our name, I'm quite attached to Souske.
As for spending experience and what not, I have no idea so I'll let others do all the hard work there.
Brandark
Disrespect the law, and you disrespect me.
Dirtnap
Kanmusu Affecionado
close enough.