Glory of the Emerald Empire (Legend of the 5 Rings Quest)

[Winged Knight]

[x] gman


You nod to Asami. The Magistrate is correct. If there is anything left to retrieve from this broken creature, now is the time to do it. Very likely he will not be alive come the end of the hour, one way or another. Such is the ultimate end for anyone who draws upon the Taint.

You step forward and cross your arms, looming over Xanwu. The man doesn't look up, instead just sitting there with his head hanging low, crying pitifully. He is a wretched sight. How could this have ever been one of those knives in the darkness? How could this person have ever been a threat, weeping brokenly bound in this chair?

You shrug off those thoughts. You can never underestimate the enemy. Every person who is Tainted runs the risk of falling to Jigoku. Even those who seek proper treatment are watched for the rest of their lives. They are too dangerous for anything less. The Taint, and the Tainted, cannot be underestimated. Doing so is a sure fire way for defeat, damnation and death.

"Listen well Xanwu," you say in a low tone. "You are done, and your life will end soon." The man flinches where he sits, and his sobbing grows louder. Even still, you speak on. "There is a question I wish to ask, if you know it. How is this Hachi spreading the taint? You said he that he tainted you without your knowing. I don't really believe you, but sometimes how someone lies tells as much as the truth. So tell me how Hachi is spreading the Taint and how you were tainted."

You walk around the man, observing him from all sides as you pace. He is small, skinny. But beneath those bandages and discolored skin lies unholy strength. But the man does not exercise it, does not push against his bonds. All the fight has been taken from him.

"Perhaps then you can have a small measure of peace for knowing you did some good in the world before your end," you continue. "Unless you want us to do to your family and friends what was done to you?"

Those final words make your guts wrench, but you push on. This is distasteful… Threats like these should not be necessary. It is different to inflict pain in questioning the Lost or the monsters of the Shadowlands, for they are not human. They are not individuals, not truly. They are merely puppets of Jigoku with a veneer of personality to hide what they are. You hate that you are here, that you are watching something so dishonorable. You hate that you are getting involved with something so dishonorable.

But it is not your shame, despite how close you stand to it. You are not the one who has hurt this man so, at least outside of combat. Asami has, or more likely the Eta attendant Haro. A torturer… Well, it is not like you didn't expect such things from the Scorpion Clan.

You will do what you need to at this moment to learn what you must. At the Wall there are horrors that walk like men, chaos and laughter amongst tides of blood. And you are set to fight those things, to keep them at bay. You have to, or countless others will suffer.

For that you will swallow the bile and continue, and hope things do not go so much further that your honor is broken.

"He just…" Xanwu says before taking a moment to swallow. "He just stood around us. That's all. He was always covered in cloth… We never saw his face." He shudders, as if caught in a cold breeze. "But then one day my skin started changing… And then he gathered us all." He pauses and looks up. "It was like a voice in my head… A call…"

His eyes widen as he finally sees you properly. His mouth drops open, and his jaw works frantically. He almost looks like he's going into shock. You frown at him, and open your mouth to speak. But before you do the man finally seems to reach an equilibrium.

He is not calm, not with his eyes still so wide. It is more like he has just finally reached the end of how scared he can be. His face slackens, and the fear drains from his expression as he speaks.

"You're the one he wanted," Xanwu mutters. "You're the one we were supposed to kill…"

"Why?" you ask, putting a hand on your tetsubo and lean in closer. "Why was Hachi after me?"

"You're the reason all this has happened to me…" Xanwu goes on as if you hadn't spoken. "You did this…"

Xanwu wrenches upward, trying to reach for you. The leather creaks as it strains to hold him, and the wood cracks a little under his manic push. He shifts and turns, trying to get out of his chair, trying to reach you. You stumble back, putting some distance between you and the man. But that only seems to make the Xanwu struggle even more.

"You did this!" Xanwu screams. "You're the reason for all of it! All my pain and suffering!" He throws back his head and howls like a beast. "YOU DID THIS TO MEEEEEEEE!!!!!"

Haro, the Eta attendant, slams a heavy rag over Xanwu's face. Even at the distance you're standing you can smell the chemicals that have been soaked into it. It is cloying and burns your nose. Xanwu roars into it, tries to throw the rag off, but Haro holds strong. The Eta is surprisingly tenacious despite being so small, and keeps the rag steady.

The Tainted man struggles for almost a minute as the Eta tries to ram the cloth down Xanwu's throat. The leather of the bindings creaks constantly, and the cracks riddle the thick wooden chair. But finally, blessedly, whatever is mixed into the rag takes effect. Xanwu's thrashing slows down; growing weaker and weaker, and then finally stops.

When Haro takes the rag away, Xanwu's eyes are half closed and his head lolls about as if he cannot properly keep upright. It is almost as if he is asleep, if it were not for the low groaning noises the man made as he relaxed in his chair. Whatever fire had sparked within him, it is certainly gone now. Smothered by the apothecaries of the Scorpion.

"I apologize for that," Asami says, bowing to you. "I did not anticipate that he would react in this way." She glances at Xanwu, who is drooling where he sits. "I believed him properly broken by this point."

"I think I can speak for the both of us when I say no one could have expected something like that," Shasa says, looking between you an the prisoner. "He seemed meek as milk, but then erupted with such fury." She shakes her head and shrugs. "Just goes to show you can take nothing for granted."

"Wise words," Asami says. "I think we've learned everything we can. That being the case, I think we should speak further about this in private." She motions to the stairs. "We could get some breakfast too, while we're at it."

[] Agree to speak in private.
[] Ask for Mataru and/or Shirou to join.
[] Write in.

 

[Winged Knight]

We now return to our regularly scheduled Legend of the 5 Rings Quest.

[x] Agree to speak in private.


"I am fine with speaking in private," you say. "Though I'm not sure how much more there is to discuss."

You don't comment on the possibility of breakfast. Honestly, this whole ordeal has left you feeling a little queasy. There is a difference between inflicting injury in battle and… this. In truth, you're glad Xanwu has been rendered unconscious. It means you no longer have to linger here.

"I'm also all for talking somewhere else," Shasa says, looking around the cavernous dungeon and wrinkling her nose. "I think I've had about as much a I please of this place."

"Excellent," Asami says. "Then let us make our way back up."

Asami leads the both of you back up the winding stairs and into the castle proper. You follow her to the second floor and into a small dining room. Like everything else in Kyuden Bayushi, excepting the dungeon you were just in, it is lavishly furnished with gold and silver decoration. The table in the center of the room is practically a work of art, and the Bayushi Mon is engraved into its center in such a way that it almost looks as if the wood was grown that way rather than carved.

Asami sits down and motions for the both of you to follow. You join her at the table, and Shasa sits by your side. Servants come in with trays of rice and fish, as well as quite a bit of fruit. It's not as fancy as the dinner last night, but by all accounts this appears to be a fine breakfast.

You put a little fruit and fish on your plate, but not too much. Now that you're away from the dungeon, and the bound form of Xanwu, your appetite is returning. Still, you don't want to push yourself too fast. You've seen what happens to people when they make themselves eat while nauseated. It usually doesn't end too well.

"So," Asami says as the servants leave. She pours herself a cup of tea and sets the drink aside to cool a little. "What are your impressions of the 'Hachi'? He seems to inspire fear in his underlings, considering how reluctant Xanwu was to even speak about him."

"That is no surprise," Shasa says. "He is almost certainly one of the true Lost." She grimaces. "Such creatures are not gentle in how they treat their subordinates. They are the true, final corruption of what was once human. Any empathy he held is long gone."

"You are certain he has embraced the Taint that strongly?" Asami asks before pouring some sauce over her fish and taking a bite.

"Undoubtedly," you say, pouring your own tea. "Every Crab learns at least this much. The Taint is hard to spread, and just being around the Tainted won't do it unless they are very far gone." You sip your tea before continuing. "Whoever this Hachi is, he is no longer anything but a puppet for Jigoku. Likely a strong one, too, considering the number of people he's infected just by standing near them for what was likely a few days."

"Troublesome," Asami says around a bit of fruit. "But not too far beyond what we expected."

"I take it you have a course of action, Asami-sama?" Shasa asks. "I hope I'm not being too forward, but could you share this with us?"

"We're going to assault their base of operations tonight," Asami says. "Just an hour after sunset. Capture and kill as many as we can, and hopefully slay this Hachi a well." Asami smiles coldly. "We will cut off this serpent's head and leave the body to rot. I will not have this filth infesting my city."

"I share your sentiments, Asami-sama," you say. "We are happy to do anything we can to help in this matter."

"I'm glad," Asami says, setting down her chopsticks on an empty plate and taking a deep sip of her tea. "I plan to get Mataru involved in this operation, and if you could speak to your monk I would appreciate it. He could be useful for this operation."

"I will talk with him soon, then," you respond. "I'm sure Shirou-san will be happy to give his support."

"Very good," Asami says before rising to her feet. She gives you and Shasa a small bow. "I must see to preparations for tonight's assault." She straightens and looks at the both of you with a carefully neutral expression. "I must request that you both remain in the castle during this time. You are safe here, and I would hate for either of you to be injured before we purge these scum from the face of Rokugan."

"Of course, Asami-sama," you answer, knowing exactly just how much of a 'request' this actually was. The magistrate did not have true authority over you, but Yasuki Goro had promised your aid to this endeavor, which meant you had to follow Asami's instruction for the time being. "We will remain in the castle until you call for us."

Asami nods to both of you. "Then we shall see each other later today."

She bows again and exits the room, leaving you and Shasa alone together. Looking out a window you see the sun hasn't risen much higher than where it rested when you awoke. It was almost as if you were down in that dungeon for hours, though obviously this was not the case. Time can be a strange thing to experience, now and again.

The morning is still young yet, and you've the entire day before you must head out to battle. You could spend that time resting, or perhaps interacting with your companions. Or maybe even something completely different, if it strikes your mood. Just because you're restricted to the castle doesn't mean you're lacking for activity.

[] Speak with Shasa. (Write in)
[] Find Shirou and speak with him. (Write in)
[] Find Mataru and speak with him. (Write in)
[] Spend your day resting. (Timeskip to the assault)
[] Do something else. (Write in)

 

[Winged Knight]

[x] Etched Steel


You eat your breakfast in silence, for a time. Your appetite has returned in full by this point, and you lay into fish and fruit and rice with equal vigor. You wash all that down with tea, and soon enough you are feeling well and truly sated. There is nothing quite like a good breakfast to help perk up one's mood. And you must admit, the food at Kyuden Bayushi has been very flavorful and filling.

Shasa is eating her meal more slowly than you did your own, though she too has consumed a great deal of food. She has eaten more fish than you did, and less fruit. Different tastes, you suppose.

"Well," you say, leaning back away from the table. "This has certainly been an interesting morning."

"It has indeed," Shasa says before taking a sip of her tea. "Unpleasant, as well."

"I can't say I enjoyed that display down below," you respond. "But while the methods are unpleasant… Well, they're still necessary. Without information we cannot proceed."

"I'm just wondering if all this truly was necessary," Shasa says in a low voice, almost too quiet for you to hear. It's more like she's speaking to herself than to you. "It all seems odd to me."

Your brow furrows. You're not entirely certain what Shasa is getting at. Everything that's happened so far has been fairly straightforward, right? You were attacked, one of your assailants survived and now your hosts have discovered a nest of vipers in their midst. Naturally, they would seek them out. It was just the logical course of action.

But then again, you think, you wariness growing. This is the Scorpion we are dealing with.

What if you've missed something? What if there is some scheme that has escaped your notice, but Shasa has seen hints of? It really wouldn't surprise you, all things considered.

"If you have something on your mind, Shasa-san, please share it," you say, keeping your voice relatively quiet. You never know who might be listening. "I would appreciate your opinion."

"It's probably nothing," Shasa says, setting her cup down. "It's just… Why bother showing us that?" She looks up at you. "The Scorpion could have gotten all of that out of Xanwu last evening, but that final piece of the interrogation was left for us to watch." She frowns. "It was almost like they were putting on a show for us."

"You truly think so?" you ask. "I mean no offense, Shasa-san, but that seems a bit much even for the Scorpion."

"I'm not so sure," Shasa says. "A mysterious group of Tainted, infiltrating into the gangs within Scorpion territory? Us getting involved at just the right moment to aid the Scorpion in their investigation?" She shakes her head. "I may be overthinking this, but I cannot help but feel we are being drawn into some plot we don't know the details of."

You frown. That's actually a very good point. Events do appear to have set themselves up in such a way that you were in the right place at the right time. It's merely circumstantial, of course, and nothing solid enough to base a real accusation upon. Even still, it is cause for suspicion.

You had been so wrapped up in the happenings of the last two days that you've not had too much time to think things over. Shasa, though, obviously has. You must admit you're grateful for that. Even if you've nothing truly substantial to base your concerns upon, you need to remember that this is the Scorpion Clan. They have a reputation for subterfuge and artifice. Chances are more than good that something is going on behind the scenes.

You just hope whatever it is doesn't get you and your allies killed.

[] Write in.

 

[Winged Knight]

[x]Gman


You ponder this for a time, considering Shasa's words. In truth, you've not given much thought to such things. You've been far too busy with events as they happen to wonder about what might rest beneath the surface. Obviously Shasa has pondered on these matters, though. She is concerned, and perhaps you should be as well.

And yet, you are not. It is odd, but you really don't believe the Scorpion have any ill intent toward you and your allies. It takes you a few moments to transform instinct into thought, but when you do you allow yourself a small smile.

It's a rare thing for you to have an opportunity to express your thoughts at length.

"Your instincts are good ones Shasa-san," you say. "And tell the truth things have been so busy that I haven't thought it through like that. The Scorpion are, after all, Scorpion. I don't doubt that they do have a plan of some sort, but to what end? Yasuki-sama said courts can be like wars sometimes... And maybe I am a bit slow, so bear with me. As I see it the Scorpion could have three reasons to do what they did."

You hold up a hand and curl down one finger, a physical representation of the point you are about to make. Shasa quirks an eyebrow at the gesture, but otherwise ha no response and makes no motion to interrupt.

"First and foremost, we are young, and I have no doubt that they want to keep us from questioning them too closely," you say, taking care to keep away from a lecturing tone. The last thing you wish is to cause Shasa insult. "They wish to show that they are dedicated to ending this and that they can be trusted. It would be gauche to bring Yasuki-sama to the dungeons, but two young Crab Bushi? Who have already agreed to help and yet have a means to speak to Yasuki-sama? Well that is obvious. That could indeed be their only intent. Yet I feel this is too obvious."

You curl another finger down, and Shasa smiles in amusement. You suppose you can see why she might find some humor in your actions. After all, it's not often you speak at such great length. Most of the time you let others speak, and simply interject as necessary.

"Second," you continue. "The Magistrate Asami-sama wished to test our mettle before combat, to see how we handle the sight of humans dying and being tortured as opposed to the foul creatures below the Wall. This provided a controlled setting for her to gain some measure of us."

You curl the final finger.

"The third," you say. "And probably the least likely in my opinion is that she wished to both see what we know and to use that information. These lands are not so soft as it might appear, but I would wager that they do not have as much experience with the Taint as we do. In asking us down, she both got a little of our knowledge and was able to see what we knew without giving away that she was looking."

You drop your hand and shrug. Shasa's smile has grown wider, and she has rested her chin on her palm, elbow on the table. The gesture accentuates her beauty, as does her expression. You keep yourself from blushing, but it is a near thing.

"I could of course be completely wrong," you say, moving on as much to finish your thoughts as to distract you from Shasa. "I am not suited to the courts like you, and have probably missed something. No doubt Yasuki-sama would laugh at it."

"Maybe he would," Shasa responds, looking distinctly mirthful herself. She shakes her head and chuckles. "You surprise me sometimes, Sosuke-san."

You can't help but blink a little in response to Shasa's words.

"I can't imagine how," you say. "I'll be the first to admit I'm mostly what you see at first look."

"Oh no," Shasa says, chuckling again. "You're much more than that. But in any event, those are good reasons you gave." She stands up and brushes off her knees. "My thanks to you, Sosuke-san. Your words have relieved some of my worry."

"I am happy I could be of service, Shasa-san."

"It is much appreciated," Shasa says back. "I wish you a good day, Sosuke-san. I think I will rest the next few hours and ensure last night's injuries do not interfere with my readiness." Her smile fades, and her expression grows serious. "We will see each other again once the operation starts."

You nod back, your expression just as solemn. "Rest well, Shasa-san. I look forward to standing by your side on the battlefield."

Shasa bows to you, and then leaves. No doubt she returns to her room if she is going to rest for the day. Considering the wounds she received last night from those Tainted, you can't really begrudge her wanting some more rest. She doesn't seem to be in pain or out of sorts, but you know it is all too easy for the body to fool the mind on such matters. Your comrade is wise in her caution.

Now you are left with nothing but yourself and a table full of breakfast, with several hours left before you are obligated to do anything. You just need to make a decision on how you're going to utilize that time.

[] Write in.

 

[Winged Knight]

[x] Go talk to Shirou


You need to go talk to Shirou. After all, you made a promise that you would go speak with him and see if he would lend his support to tonight's operation. However, that can wait for a few minutes longer. You still have some food on your plate, as well as a mostly full cup of tea. It is an awful shame to let tea grow cold, after all.

You take the time to finish your food and drink your tea. You pay your belly contentedly, feeling quite sated. You're good for the next few hours at least where meals are concerned.

Leavin the room, you wander the hallways of Kyuden Bayushi. You've gotten used to the opulence of the decoration by this point, or at least become able to ignore it effectively enough. It's still a horrid waste of resources, but at least it's not so distracting after a day to get used to it.

A servant walks by, managing a quick bow of sufficient deepness in such a way that the woman hardly even halts her motion. It's actually a fairly impressive display. You motion for her to halt, and she waits before you with her eyes downcast.

"Can you tell me where the monk Shirou currently is?" you ask. "I need to speak with him."

"Honored Samurai, the monk was last seen exercising out in the courtyard not half an hour ago," the servant answers. "He is likely still there, should you desire to converse with him now."

"I will do so," you say. "My thanks."

"It is nothing, honored Samurai," the woman responds, bowing. When she rises she continues to make her way down the hall, no doubt to continue with her daily tasks. You leave her to it and go on your way.

You head down the stairs and out the front gates, nodding to the guards at the door as you go. The sky is faintly overcast now, but you don't imagine it's going to rain any harder than a light drizzle at most. The smell in the air isn't wet enough for a true downpour, and you know the scent of rain intimately considering how often water falls upon Crab lands.

You find Shirou going through forms at one end of the courtyard, well away from where anyone might be walking. A heat haze surrounds him, like from the fire of a forge. It makes the air ripple strangely as he goes from one step to the next. It's the same thing he used last night against the Tainted, a technique that burns flesh.

The monk's tempo goes up or down depending on what part of the form he's doing, sometimes moving blindly fast and at others agonizingly slow. His footwork is flawless, and his arms move in lockstep with his legs. When he turns, his entire body goes with him no matter the speed.

Some of the Scorpion Bushi are watching him, talking amongst themselves. They're frowning, but it doesn't appear to be in displeasure. You think it's more like bewilderment than anything else.

"I really don't understand this whole Kiho thing," one of the Bushi says to her companion, waving a hand at Shirou. "I mean, isn't it just what the Shugenja do? Why give it a different name?"

"I don't think that's how it works," the other Bushi says. He cups a hand under his chin. "Shugenja talk to the kami, right? I think monks do what they do just under their own power."

"You mean he's doing that by himself?" the woman asks, incredulous. She shakes her head. "Not sure I believe it."

"Just telling you what I've heard," the man responds. "I don't know much more than you do, honestly."

You grin and shake your head as you walk toward Shirou. It's nice to see that you are not the only one amazed by the wonders monks can accomplish through their rigorous training. Though after getting to know Shirou better, you must admit Kiho is one of the lesser oddities about the man.

Shirou halts I motion and bow to you as you come close, one fist held in his open palm. He has a smile on his face as he rises, and the shimmering of heat fades away. You can still feel some of it on the air, though, as if you've come close to an open flame.

"Sosuke-sama," Shirou greets. "What might I do for you on this fine morning?"

[] Write in.

 

[Winged Knight]

[x] Sirrocco


"We have discovered the location of the Tainted's base of operations," you say before returning the bow, getting straight to business. "I was asked by the Magistrate Bayushi Asami-sama to ask if you would join the assault on this place."

"Really?" Shirou asks, his eyes widening. "I must admit I'm a little surprised."

"You handled yourself well in the fight last night," you respond. "Even unarmed, you held your own and inflicted crippling blows. I can see why the Magistrate would want your aid."

"You flatter me," Shirou says. "I was merely coming to the aid of a friend." He rubs a hand over his bald head. "But if the Magistrate wishes my aid, then I will gladly give it."

"I am glad," you say, smiling. "It will be good to fight by your side when the time comes."

"Again, you do me too much honor, Sosuke-sama," Shirou says before bowing again. "I am but a simple monk."

"A monk, yes," you say. "But hardly simple. Not when you can move your hands as if they were on fire."

"Ah, the Kiho." He stands up straight. "Yes, I suppose that might seem fantastical to those not used to such techniques."

"They certainly are to me," you say. "Speaking of techniques, would you like to train a little?"

"It would be my pleasure, Sosuke-sama," Shirou says before getting into a very familiar stance. "Push hands?"

You set aside your weapons and get into position with the monk, your foot parallel to his and your hands raised up. He pushes softly, and you redirect his advance to the side before curling back toward him. Shirou responds by pushing your hands downward before coming up, and you have to move your hands to separate his limbs before he pushes you over.

This exercise is actually quite different with armor on. You're a bit more constricted than when you first did this, but at the same time Shirou has to work around the spikes on your gauntlets to avoid getting cut up. So while you lack some of the mobility you held before, Shirou also cannot take full advantage. All in all, it evens out.

Once again you are reminded of all four elements while engaging in this activity, and how they bring about the Void by acting in harmony. It is relaxing, while at the same time engaging. Push hands truly is like a moving meditation, an exultation of the spiritual through physical exertion.

"I learned from the Magistrate that the leader of the Tainted in this city is named Hachi," you say as you circle around to push at Shirou. He merely circles back, and the exercise continues. "From the sound of it, the man is one of the true Lost."

"Troubling," Shirou says, his hands coming beneath your elbows and twisting. "I take it he's the start of all this, then?"

"It would appear so," you respond, barely steadying your feet in time to keep from getting tipped over. You push back, hoping to take the monk by surprise since his maneuver failed. "He can apparently spread the Taint merely from extended time in his presence. Only those who are truly gone have that capability."

"Then it will be a difficult fight," Shirou says, redirecting your attack downward. "Such creatures often have strange powers from so long embracing the Taint. We should be take great care."

"Indeed," you say, managing to avoid getting pulled to the floor. "The Lost cannot ever be underestimated."

Shirou pulls away from you and bows again, and you notice that this time the exercise wore you out quite a bit in a shorter timeframe. This is likely because you're wearing armor. You are well trained in its use, and suffer far fewer restrictions than others do for wearing such heavy gear, but even still the focus required for such slow but intense combat has left you a little winded.

You rotate your shoulders a little to work the kinks out of them, and stretch your arms. They pop audibly, and you wince in a mixture of pain and pleasure as the tension eases out of your limbs. You're a bit sore, but it is a good feeling. It is an ache that comes from being productive, and you cannot begrudge that.

Shirou doesn't appear to be all that tired at all, though. Chances are good he was going easy on you. If this was true combat that would be insulting, but since this is training it only makes sense for those more skilled to hold back for those who are lacking in experience. And it is undeniable that Shirou is much better at hand to hand than you are.

Which brings to mind an important question.

"Is there any particular area where your skills would be best suited, Shirou-san?" you ask. "It would be best if everyone had the opportunity to use their skills to the fullest."

"I am best on the front lines, to be honest," Shirou says. "I have a Kiho that helps me avoid attacks, as well as the fire Kiho you saw that allows me to make my own flesh like a hot anvil. Which means I can avoid blows and hit hard." He grins. "All in all, I guess you could say I'm suited pretty well for being in the vanguard."

"What a coincidence," you say, smiling back. "That's exactly where I will be."

"Then we shall truly battle together!" Shirou says with mirth. "I look forward to it."

[] Write in.

 

[Winged Knight]

[X] EtchedSteel


"I do as well," you say. "It's always a pleasure to fight beside good friends." You pause, realizing your assumption. "Well, I know we haven't really known each other all that long, but I consider you such, Shirou-san."

"I consider you a friend a well, Sosuke-sama!" Shirou says with a grin, clapping you on the shoulder. It is friendly, and really quite forward of him considering the murky area monks stand in the social order. But honestly, you find you don't mind. "There is no set time for bonds to form. They come as they will, and we must accommodate that."

"Wise words," you say, smiling. "And I'll heed them now. I'm glad to have you as a friend, Shirou-san."

"And I you, Sosuke-sama," the monk says.

"So," you say, settling into stance. "Some more training?"

"I would be happy to."

You begin the exercise again, moving back and forth in repetitive motions. The physical exertion is welcome, but again you can't help but experience something like meditation as you go on. During this time nothing else in the world exists save you, Shirou and the push and pull of your arms as you exert gentle force against each other.

Idly, you wonder if this state of being is the ultimate goal of all monks of Osano-wo. Meditation within combat itself, a kind of battle trance. You've felt clarity of thought in battle before, but you've never had the chance to truly explore it. But now, after doing this exercise with Shirou so many times, you're beginning to understand it a bit more.

You and Shirou go back and forth for another half hour or so, pushing and twisting as you each seek to take the other off balance. Neither of you gain the advantage, though you come closer to losing your footing a few times. Still, you're getting better at this.

Shirou backs away and bows to you. You bow back, and when you both rise you hear a low grumbling sound.

"Ah," Shirou says, rubbing the back of his bald head. "The body may be the vessel for the soul, but its needs must be met." He pats his stomach. "I should go find some breakfast."

"The sounds like a good plan," you say, bowing again. Shirou does the same. "May you have an enjoyable meal."

"A simple one, preferably," Shirou says as he walks off. "The food here is much too rich."

You smile a bit as Shirou makes his way back toward the castle. You're fairly tired from your exertions, but it is not a deep weariness. You've got enough energy to do a few more things today, at least. Though you probably shouldn't do anything too physically demanding without giving time for proper rest, considering the assault tonight.

The thought of the upcoming raid makes you frown. You're all well and good physically for the battle to come, but the world is more than just the physical alone. Prayer would not be remiss.

You go to the two Scorpion Bushi you overheard before and bow to them in greeting. They bow back, though you notice they're looking at you askance when you all stand straight.

"So what was all that?" The woman asks. "With the pushing and such?"

"An exercise from the monks of Shinden Osano-wo," you respond. "Shirou-san has been kind enough to work me through it on occasion."

"Fair enough," the woman says. "Looks interesting."

"It is," you respond. "Could you please direct me to the shrine? I would like to pray."

"Around the back of the castle, in its own small building," the man says. "There's a statue of Kami Bayushi-sama in front of the doors. You can't miss it."

"My thanks," you say, bowing again.

You head around the castle, walking toward the back. It's a bit of a hike considering just how large Kyuden Bayushi is. This fortress is meant to house several hundred people easily, and a few thousand with effort. After all, there's a reason why only castles labeled 'Kyuden' are allowed to host the Emperor's Winter Court. They must be big enough to hold all the dignitaries.

You see the building housing the shrine as soon as you round the corner. It's not tiny, but certainly smaller than much everything else you've seen of the Scorpion palace. The sliding doors are set with images of the Seven Fortunes, and in front is a remarkably well-done statue of the Kami Bayushi.

Bayushi stands at a height equal to you, clad in loose robes. His long hair is wavy, as if caught in a breeze, and around his face is torn piece of cloth that hides his nose, mouth and jaw. His hands are brought up, as if guarded, but the eyes show no hint of apprehension. They are piercing, looking upon all who would enter the shrine as if peeling away their masks and bringing their inner being to light.

It's honestly a little unnerving being under the Kami's gaze. You bow to him, deeply and respectfully. Bayushi is not the patron of your Clan, but he is still Hida's brother and a god from the Celestial Heavens. He is deserving of respect.

After a suitable length of time with your head lowered, you make your way into the shrine. Inside are a number of urns, no doubt carrying the ashes of revered ancestors who accomplished heroic deeds for the Scorpion Clan. In a spot of honor at the back are statues of the Jade and Obsidian Dragons, coiled around each other with their claws interlocked. You cannot tell if they are embracing or pushing against each other. It could very well be both.

The Jade Dragon is made from, appropriately enough, pure Jade. Quite a lot of it, too, considering the statue is over three feet long. You might have been aghast at that, but you see that the other Dragon appears to be made from pure Obsidian. Your eyes widen, and you take a step back. Obsidian is a Sacred Material, like Jade or Crystal, but it also holds madness within it. It carries the insanity of the first Lord Moon, Onnotangu, for it was created from his own blood fallen to earth after his son Hantei had cut off the god's hand.

You make a mental note to not get too close to the statue of the Obsidian Dragon. Obsidian only inspired madness with continued close contact, but it never hurt to avoid unnecessary risks.

You recover quickly from your shock and observe the rest of the shrine. Around the Dragons are small statues of the Seven Fortunes and the Eight Founding Kami. Like the statue outside, they are remarkably well done. Whoever crafted these was truly a master artisan. The stone looks almost as if it is alive, and the figures could reach out and touch you. The thought is ridiculous, of course, and makes you smile. Even with all the strangeness in your life, you doubt you'll ever come across moving statues.

[] Write in.

 

[Winged Knight]

[x] Gman


"No, Yasuki-sama, I have nothing on my mind in particular," you respond. You have not received leave to sit, so you remain standing. "Although I would be remiss to not report of the assault planned tonight on the gang. While I don't doubt that our hosts have informed you of tonight's plans, and what was found in interrogation. It's always wise to check in with your gunso before heading out, if nothing else it keeps infiltration down."

"It is good to see you're keeping to proper procedure even so many weeks away from the Clan," Yasuki Goro responds. "But yes, I was informed of what is to come." He smiles and brings a cup of tea to his lips, drinking deep before continuing. "And a good thing, too. We made an agreement, but I don't want to linger any longer than we have to."

"The mission is of primary importance," you say. "Though I am glad to purge Shadowlands infiltrators."

"That is always a good thing," the courtier says back. "Though I must admit their presence this far from the Wall is concerning." He grimaces. "Especially if they're this organized. It makes me wonder how much time we have before the war Hida Tanaka-sama anticipates truly comes to pass."

You remain silent for a little while after that, letting the concern linger in the air. There have always been isolated incidents of Maho-Tsukai and other unsavory elements within the Empire, but usually not organized and quickly disposed of once they were brought to light. Your Clan, and the Great Carpenter Wall, ensured that nothing touched by the Shadowlands ever gained a true foothold inside Rokugan.

But here, within one of the strongholds of a Clan several hundred miles away from your own, you were attacked by seven Tainted foes. And they had been infected with Jigoku's dark touch by one of the true Lost, infiltrating the criminal element of Kyuden Bayushi. That meant this wasn't an isolated group. These Tainted were organized.

A small shudder makes it way down your spine. In the travels it had faded to the back of your mind, but now you can't help but think about why you were traveling in the first place. Dark times are coming, full of blood and death and shadow. You have to be ready for it. If you weren't, it will not be just you who pays the price.

"Shasa-san had some concerns," you say, pulling yourself away from those thoughts. "That our being shown the end of the interrogation almost seemed like the Scorpion were putting on a show. That we are being pulled into some scheme."

"Oh she does, does she?" Yasuki Goro asks, grinning. "And what do you think, Sosuke-san?"

"I mentioned a few reasons beyond the obvious why Bayushi Asami-sama would have brought us down there," you answer. "But ultimately I don't think there was anything too underhanded in the Magistrate requesting our presence for the final portion of the interrogation."

"Ah, I see," the courtier say, grinning wider. "Shasa-san has good instincts. Because almost certainly there were several underhanded reasons for why the Magistrate did that."

You blink. "My Lord?"

"You are a good lad, Sosuke-san, and far more suited to these matters than you give yourself credit for," Yasuki Goro says. "But you are still young."

"I'm not certain I understand, Yasuki-sama."

"It can be easy to miss, but seems obvious in hindsight," Yasuki Goro responds. He waves a hand toward the Bayushi Mon on the table. "The Scorpion are always, always, scheming and manipulating you with every interaction. That is their nature. It is simply easy to overlook when there is a common enemy." The courtier shakes his head and sighs. "No, Sosuke-san. There is a game at play here somewhere, though I don't know what it is. But just because I can't see it doesn't mean I cannot sense it is there."

[] Write in.

 

[Winged Knight]

[x] Gman/Sirrocco


"My lord a scheme would be directed to some purpose yes?" you ask. "In that case, I suppose the question to answer is what would the Scorpion would want, as to that I can only make a guess. I am... admittedly not sure why one spends that much energy to manipulate people who are already helping you."

You shrug a little, mulling the thought over. All of these considerations are going down a twisting, winding path that you can't really see the end of. Your superior seems convinced that there is some plot going on by the Scorpion. Shasa, as well, is apparently seeing signs that something might be amiss. In truth, it wouldn't be all that surprising for the Scorpion Clan to have some scheme in motion.

But to what end? What could the purpose be? There had to be a motivation of some sort. No one simply ran a scheme for no reason. Not even the Scorpion could be that obsessed with their little shadow plots.

"As for my guess," you continue. "I suppose they could want us in their debt for some future endeavor somehow, although that seems convoluted. That or they simply want to delay us for some other plot up in the Lion or Dragon lands, or they're just doing it to keep in practice. Which still seems... odd to me."

"The Scorpion are odd people, Sosuke-san," Yasuki Goro says. "Everything is another game to them, something to be manipulated in some way. Any answers they give will have meanings far beyond the immediately obvious." He grimaces. "And it's difficult to know what they truly want. They hide their own secrets well."

"Although it is strange to think this way, perhaps they wished to test us?" you ask. "To try in some scorpion way to gain insight into our thinking, in preparation for future maneuvers? We're young, and already a man of your reputation has chosen us to assist in a diplomatic mission. Assuming we are not among the dead in the upcoming war, they might be thinking that they'd see us in the courts again, and wish understanding on how we might be influenced."

"It's certainly a possibility," the courtier responds. "The Scorpion have played the long game before, carefully setting up connections to lean on years, even decades later." He shrugs. "But ultimately this is all just speculation. We don't have enough information to determine what their game is."

"If my Lord will forgive me," you say. "I'm still lost as to why they'd be playing a game at all."

"Because they're Scorpion, Sosuke-san," Yasuki Goro responds. "I know it seems odd, and judgmental of me, but this is just how they are. There is always a plot. Never doubt that."

"It seemed," you say, shifting the topic. "From what I was hearing, that these bone spiders had been something of an ongoing problem for the Scorpion. And if the Lost can infiltrate with one man, I suspect they can infiltrate more."

"That would not be an unwise assumption," your superior says back. "The Wall, and the Crab Clan itself, is best at stopping large armies. Smaller groups of infiltrators don't fair much better, but some do slip through despite our best efforts."

"Such has always been the way of things, unfortunately," you respond with a grimace. "At the same time, the honorable Bayushi Daimyo seems to have a right and proper loathing of the Tainted. Perhaps they would appreciate a visit from the Kuni Witch Hunters? By my understanding this is exactly the sort of situation that School trains for, and in the upcoming struggle having the Scorpion both more closely aligned with us and less infiltrated by the enemy would surely be worthwhile."

"I've considered bringing it up with them, lad," Yasuki Goro responds. "But Clan leaders are always leery of allowing agents of other Clans into their territory outside of Court settings. The Witch Hunters, by their very nature, would operate mostly without direct supervision. I can't imagine the Scorpion Clan Champion, Bayushi Gosaro-sama, would be too keen on that."

That makes you pause for a moment. It is true that the Kuni Witch hunters have a reputation. Even amongst the Crab Clan the Kuni are sometimes looked at askance for all the research they do on the creatures of the Shadowlands. The Witch Hunters are often at the forefront of such things, capturing beasts for their fellows to experiment on when they are not busy seeking out infiltrators coming from beyond the Wall.

All of this has left the Kuni with a fair bit of infamy with the rest of the Empire. But this research has led to the discovery of numerous strengths and weaknesses amongst the monsters living within Shadowlands. Some of the greatest heroes of your Clan come from the Kuni Family, who are tireless in their pursuit of knowledge to better fight the enemy.

But the Family has also produced some of the worst villains your Clan has ever known, for several have gone mad in their endeavors to understand that awful land blighted by Jigoku's touch. Hence a great deal of the mistrust that family holds.

"Even still," you press on. "It's something to consider, isn't it? Any aid against the Shadowlands is to our advantage. If we can join the Scorpion to the Crab in some manner, then we will be all the more prepared for the war to come."

Yasuki Goro is silent for a moment, contemplating your words. His brow furrows, and he places a hand under his chin. He is in deep thought, weighing your proposal. No doubt he is considering it from all angles, for that seems to be the way he does things.

In truth, you're being too forward about this. Not horribly so, but certainly enough to deserve rebuke. Yasuki Goro is your superior, and it is not your place to insist on any action taken. That is his decision, and at the very most all you can give is advice. But although you've overstepped yourself in pressing this far, the courtier doesn't appear to mind too much.

Could this, as well, be another facet of the fame you hold? Does it allow you to bend the bounds of propriety, if just to this degree? It is a heady thought… And something you are going to have to think about very carefully in the future.

"Your words have merit," Yasuki Goro says at last. "I will broach the topic lightly with Bayushi Chisata-sama tonight during dinner, while you are performing the raid. We shall see what she thinks on the matter."

[] Speak further with Yasuki Goro. (Write in.)
[] Politely excuse yourself and do something else. (Write In)
[] Timeskip to the raid.

 

[Winged Knight]

[x] Timeskip to the raid.

Attack Roll: 7k3=50
Damage Roll: 6k3=29


You bow deeply to your superior. You pressed further than you should have here, but it seems Yasuki Goro is willing to overlook this indiscretion. You believe in what you have said, but it is still good that your words have not caused offense.

"My thanks, Yasuki-sama," you say. "For considering such inexperienced council as mine."

"It's nothing, lad," Yasuki Goro says. "You brought forth a decent argument. It's worth pursuing, at the very least."

"I am glad you think so," you say as you rise.

"In any event," the courtier says. "You should rest up and prepare. Tonight will be a busy one for you."

"Of course, Yasuki-sama," you say, bowing again. "I will make sure I am fresh."

You leave the room and head back to your quarters. After the training you did with Shirou, you need to ensure that you don't push yourself too far. It would not be a great weariness, but little things like that could mean life or death when combat comes around.

So you sit on the floor, taking care of your equipment, and wait for the night to come.

o\O/o
​

You stay as silent as you can as you watch the longhouse in the Eta district. There are no lanterns hanging here, which has the whole area suffused in an even darkness as opposed to the selective shadows of the more upper class areas of Kyuden Bayushi. The moon is half full, granting some modicum of ambient light. It is enough to allow your night vision to compensate, at the very least.

Two men stand at the front of the longhouse, a flimsy looking building that no doubt held several people at a time as a convenient place to meet up or sleep. Normally two people standing outside would not be so suspicious, if it was not for the sickly pallor of their skin and the fact that they were clutching knives.

Shasa, Shirou and Mataru are by your side, observing with you from the alleyway you are taking shelter in. You have been waiting for over an hour now, keeping watch for Asami's signal. Many people have come in and out of the longhouse this evening, and you shift your grip on your tetsubo.

When will we begin? you wonder. You want to rush in and start breaking skulls, but you restrain yourself. Charging recklessly will do you little good, and you are a better soldier than that.

There is a soft thwip sound from the alleyway adjacent to you, and two arrows launch out of the darkness to lodge in the throats of both the men on watch. They gurgle softly, clutching at their necks, before collapsing in pools of their own blood. They hardly even make a noise as they die.

And you smile, because that is the signal for you to proceed.

You charge forward, running across the street at full tilt. Your allies are but one step behind you, and out of the darkness between the buildings Asami comes with ten of her Magistrates. You pause just a moment before the door, and then you slam your tetsubo into it.

The feeble wood bends beneath your blow, and then explodes inward in a shower of shrapnel. The people inside the longhouse cry in alarm at your intrusion, men and women with discolored skin looking at you with wide eyes. They reach for their weapons, all knives and Kama and other peasant tools.

You don't give them a chance to prepare. Roaring, you run forward and smash your weapon onto a Tainted woman, snapping her arm and sending her tumbling. She screams, and tries to stab you, but before she can get any further Shasa appears at your side and stabs the Tainted peasant through the heart. The woman shudders briefly, and then slumps to the ground.

Behind you the Magistrates pour in, weapons drawn, and rush into the fray. There are easily twenty enemies within the confines of the longhouse, which means your group is slightly outnumbered. Even more, these people are showing the same unnatural strength and resilience that the foes last night showed. Where regular peasants would have been defeated easily, this lot manages to hold their own during these first few, tense moments of battle.

However, you hold the advantage in both equipment and skill. That is a greater advantage than any unholy blessings from the Realm of Evil, as you well know. After all, the Crab Clan has stood over a thousand years against such unnatural advantages and held firm. You are confident that in the next few minutes, this fight will be over.

The door to the back room breaks apart as an armored foot bashes through it, sending pieces of the barrier tumbling outward. An armored hand reaches out from the darkness within and grabs one of the magistrates by the throat, lifting him into the air. The man struggles for a bit, trying to slash as his attacker with his katana.

Those attempts end abruptly when the assailants own katana pierces straight through the man, ripping apart armor and flesh with equal ease. The Scorpion Bushi screams in agony, but that cry dies off as, to your utter horror, the hand holding the katana shifts and slices to the side. The magistrate's body goes limp as he is cut almost in half, and the figure in the shadows tosses him aside like so much trash.

"It's about time we ended all this hiding nonsense," a gruff, though oddly familiar, voice says from the shadows. "I've been itching for a proper war."

The creature that steps out from the darkness could only in the loosest sense be called a human being. He stands tall, easily your equal, but his body is almost grotesquely muscled. His sickly looking skin looks stretched tight, as if it can barely hold his flesh within, and his armor almost looks too small trying to cover his body. Across his ugly, misshapen face is a long scar across his left eye, which has been covered in a patch.

And when he pulls his lips back in a gruesome smile he reveals sharp, pointed teeth. Teeth like those of a shark, but yellow and stained. Teeth you cannot help but remember from a hectic time not so long ago.

Your eyes go wide, and for a moment you stop breathing. You know this man. It was almost two years ago, during your Gempukku, but you cannot forget that face. This person, Hachi, has changed drastically in that time, but his features and voice are unmistakable.

This is the one who killed Gazat'ken. This is the monster who murdered your friend.

"Well," Hachi says, smiling at you with shark like teeth as the battle continues on. "Didn't think you'd be stupid enough to come to me, little Crab." He shifts his grip on his sword. "Might be able to make something of this night after all."

[] Write in.