In Thunder's Echo (Legend of the Five Rings Quest)

[Maugan Ra]

Spoiler

OK, votes tallied, and it looks like you're playing to win while allowing the Crane to set the tone.

Games: Go
Soshi Naoto 5k4: 30
Daidoji Chen 6k3: 22

You settle yourself properly before the board and incline your head to Daidoji Chen. The Crane holds two clenched fists out in front of him, and you indicate the right one with your fan. It appears you will be playing with the white stones.

Chen, playing black, places his first stone on the board. You follow suit, and for the first minute or so the three of you are silent as you move through your opening moves. Remaining silent for the entire game would be very rude, but after some consideration you decide not to open the conversation yourself. This match has been arranged almost entirely by the will of the Crane - best to see what they want rather than walking into it blind. Predictably, it is Chen who speaks first.

"I have been giving some thought to our earlier discussion, Soshi-san." He says in a moment's pause while you consider your next move. "You said that Shiro-no-Soshi lies in the same mountain range as Shiro Matsu?"

"Hai, Daidoji-san, that is correct." You say politely, placing down your stone and capturing a territory in the corner of the board. "Though it does not guard a pass, my ancestors judged the location to be of both practical and aesthetic value."

"A balance that some find harder to strike than others." Mariko comments softly, her eyes on the game board. "Might I ask how it compares to Shiro Matsu? This fine castle is the only reference point I have for mountain architecture."

Hmm. It is possible that the Crane merely speaks of architectural styles, but you suspect there is a potential comment about differing philosophies in there as well. But why would... ah, of course. Bayushi Kimoko appears to have aligned the Scorpion with the Lion. The Crane wish to know how true that is.

"In style, my home is somewhat different, for it serves a different purpose." You say quietly, more out of politeness than a genuine fear of eavesdroppers. "Shiro Matsu is a home to fierce warriors, and has been shaped by that purpose. Shiro-no-Soshi is a home to priests and magistrates. It exists to watch, to listen and to serve the will of the elements."

"And Kyuden Bayushi?" Chen comments in a tone slightly too casual to be entirely genuine.

"I am reliably informed that everyone who has ever visited or stayed within Kyuden Bayushi has a subtly different impression of it." You deflect the probe even as you deflect Chen's moves upon the board. Regardless of what they might want, it would be highly improper to comment on your own lord's behavior and intentions. "Still, it is as Shinsei said - 'The Dragonfly's buzz is no different from the Lion's roar. All creatures have a voice with which they express the Way'."

This is one of the first lessons you were taught when your sensei covered conversational etiquette. A personal opinion can be argued against or questioned, but a quotation from one's ancestors or from the Tao is beyond reproach. You understand that the Ikoma are highly skilled at approaching debates in this fashion, though their Clan's disdain for Shinsei and his teachings means they are unlikely to quote the Little Teacher themselves.

"To serve the Tao is to serve the Empire." Doji Mariko replies in tones of agreement. You recognize the quotation as another passage from the Tao itself, which in context would mean... everyone has a voice with which to express the Way, and everyone has their own means of serving the Empire. An interesting statement to hear from a different Clan - an acknowledgement of different method and yet shared purpose, suggesting common cause and alliance. Well, Kimoko did tell you to form ties with the Crane, so this works well enough.

"I have always found that passage to be of particular comfort." You say as you exchange a flurry of rapid moves with Chen. "Knowing that I can find wisdom, and perhaps even Enlightenment, in loyal service to the Empire allows me to focus entirely on my duties without fear or regret."

"It is always good to act without such chains weighing you down." Mariko agrees, drawing her fan and wafting it slowly in front of her face. "We should all seek to serve the Empire to the best of our ability."

"On that point, no loyal samurai will disagree." You say calmly, wondering where she is going with this... ah, of course. "Likewise, if one is to draw wisdom from the teachings of Shinsei, one might observe that he drew Thunders from every extant Clan to achieve what none could have on their own."

"In such times, the wisdom of our ancestors becomes clearer than ever before." Doji Mariko says with a gentle smile. "If we may assist one another, it is our duty as samurai... no, as children of the Sun and Moon to do so."

That at least is clear. Doji Mariko is offering to help you with something, and would expect to be helped in return. You could try and deflect again... but no, you are trapped by your own pious words. About the only viable way out here is to need nothing that the Crane can provide, for otherwise you are shunning a genuine offer of assistance on mere principle, in direct contravention of the example set by the Seven Thunders. That is unlikely to end well for you.

While you mull over your options, you set down another stone on the board, completing the pattern you were aiming for. In so doing, you have made the gap in points between you and Daidoji Chen too severe for the Crane to compensate for by the end of the game, and judging by his slightly widened eyes your opponent is well aware of it. Victory, it seems, is sweet. Now to see if you navigate the social game even nearly as well.

Choose one:
[ ] Accept the consequences and turn down the Crane's offer of assistance.
[ ] Request Doji Mariko's assistance in some matter.
- [ ] Write in with details

 

[Maugan Ra]

As you move through the final exchange of pieces with Daidoji Chen, you consider the situation presented to you. The Crane are offering to assist you, and you have just held a conversation regarding the benefits of cooperation between multiple Clans. A request for assistance in an area that the Crane are know to specialize in would seem the ideal choice, and if you really do need help... well, revealing a weakness in a way that suits you is a traditional Scorpion tactic for a reason.

"It embarasses me to admit it, Doji-sama, but while I have learned to apply my skills to matters of strategy I have not given the way of the brush the same level of attention." You say carefully, for there is a fine line between asking for help and allowing oneself to appear as an incompetent fool. Even this small opening would be enough for a courtier of Mariko's training to leverage into a painful blow, but fortunately she takes a less hostile stance.

"There is no shame in such things, Soshi-san. Even the greatest masters of the Kakita honed their skills over a lifetime of study and practice." She says with a flutter of her fan. "I have no doubt that with time and effort, a mind as keen as yours will produce works every bit as fine."

That is... quite a compliment. The Kakita artisans are the finest in the Empire, challenged only in certain narrow areas by specialists from the other Clans. Encouraged, you press on.

"You honour me with such words, Doji-sama, and I had intended to hone my skills appropriately. Unfortunately the command to attend Court came before I could turn my full attention to the matter, and now I find I do not even know how much I do not know." You shrug slightly in a gesture of calculated helplessness. "I find myself... concerned that I shall attempt to write an invitation or recite a poem, misjudge my own efforts and make something of a laughing stock of myself."

"It is natural for any dutiful samurai to be concerned with such things, especially when displaying them in the public setting for the first time." Doji Mariko says sympathetically. "I am sure you will do excellently. Still, if it would set your mind at ease, perhaps I might offer my own humble assistance in the matter?"

"Such would be greatly appreciated, Doji-sama." You say politely, making sure your tone conveys the gratitude that propriety forbids your expression displaying. "If you could find the time to give an honest assessment of some of my work, I am sure my skills can only improve."

"You are kind to say so, Soshi-san. It is the duty of the Crane, as handed down to us by the Son of Heaven, to cultivate such skills and the appreciation for them among all of Rokugan." Mariko replies with a warm smile. "Perhaps we might discuss the matter in more depth tomorrow? The quarters assigned to our Clan should serve to guarantee privacy while we review your work."

"That sounds like an excellent idea, Doji-sama. Perhaps we might also find time to play a game ourselves - one should seek out a variety of opponents when learning, as each encounter brings new aspects of one's own skills to the fore." You say smoothly, before turning your attention back to Chen and his ritual acknowledgement of defeat.

It would of course be quite rude to simply end things there, so you play several more games with the Crane, winning a narrow majority of them. Your conversation meanders through numerous topics, from history to philosophy, but none are politically charged or laced with half a dozen hidden meanings. It is, for once, sincere appreciation of good company.

-/-

When you return to your quarters later that day, you find that a small note has been left under an unlit candle by the side of your bed. The brushwork is simple and direct, almost crude, though you lack the training to determine anything more from it.

Soshi Naoto

There are important matters that we must discuss, relating to the future prospects of both our clans, discussions which cannot be held within Shiro Matsu. I would therefore invite you to attend me this evening at the House of the Mountain Swallow, a highly reputable establishment in Shiro Matsu Toshi. The okaa-san will know to expect you.

I must stress that absolute discretion in this matter is of paramount importance.

There is no name, but where a signature would normally be placed the author has etched the open Tori-arch symbol of the Ikoma family.

Do you wish to attend?
[ ] Yes
- [ ] Write in with any preparations or reconnaissance you wish to perform ahead of time.
[ ] No

 

[Maugan Ra]

As you read and re-read the missive, you cannot help but smile in genuine pleasure. An anonymous note requesting attendance at a covert meeting - in a geisha house, no less. It is almost theatrical, and precisely the sort of thing you would expect from a Winter Court. Naturally, you will attend, but first there are some preparations to make.

There is something of a grey area surrounding the use of magic at court, particularly in the case of a Yogo's wards. One of the first things Yogo Hanzo did when you began settling in yesterday was to take a small knife and carve a series of delicate-looking symbols into the wooden sections of the walls marking your quarters. They are small things, easily missed, and according to the Shugenja effectively mute all sound passing from within the room to outside it. The measure might be taken as something of an insult by your hosts, but since the only way to discover it is to be deliberately eavesdropping Bayushi Kimoko decided that the level of risk was acceptable.

Of course, the fact that it only applies to the main common room assigned to you and can be disrupted by the simple act of opening a door reduces the usefulness somewhat.

Currently, both of your companions are seated in that common room carefully composing letters to send back across the pass while it is still reasonably clear. You take a seat to one side and wait to be acknowledged, as is proper - Kimoko would not appreciate being interrupted.

After a few minutes, your lord looks up at you. "A new development, Soshi-san?"

"Hai, Bayushi-sama." You reply. "A possible one, at least. I have been invited to a meeting at the House of the Mountain Swallow later tonight."

Kimoko nods slowly, reading the truth in what you have and have not said. "Visiting a true geisha house is an experience not to be missed. Enjoy yourself, Soshi-san, but make sure to take adequate precautions as well."

"Of course, Bayushi-sama." You look over at Hanzo. "I was wondering if you might have anything that could assist on that front, Yogo-san. I would not wish the rarified atmosphere to cloud my judgement."

Hanzo nods, business-like. "I can arrange something, though it will take a small while to prepare."

"Thank you, Yogo-san." You pause for a moment before continuing, unsure if your insights on this matter will be welcomed... but no, you would be failing in your duty if you did not raise your concerns. "Bayushi-sama... I cannot help but notice that this Winter Court is developing with more speed than I might have expected."

Kimoko smiles thinly at that one. "I should hope so. I am doing my best to surprise and unsettle the other delegates at every opportunity... and I am Scorpion. Doubtless half of them are convinced that I have some diabolical scheme in the works. They cannot allow themselves to be complacent and take their time, for who knows what the madwoman in a mask will do if allowed to act unopposed."

"That is... not quite how I would have phrased it, Bayushi-sama, but I take your meaning." You say, trying to quash your uncertainty. Everything you know says that a position of strength comes from studying your enemies in order to predict and guide their actions, but Kimoko appears content to simply kick their legs out from under them. Still, she is your lord, and her will is your command. You will simply have to adapt.

-/-

There are only so many preparations one can take based on limited information, and finding yourself with time left over before your meeting you determine to spend some of it practicing. You have signed up for a Kenjutsu tournament, after all, and if you do not want to shame your Clan you had best make sure your skills are sufficiently sharp.

The parade ground outside your quarters is still in active use by the Lion, but it is easy to find yourself a small corner that is unoccupied and begin training. Your katana flashes around you in glittering steel arcs, and you rapidly sink into the half-aware trance of repeated katas. It is almost a kind of meditation, being able to practice like this, and for a time you take comfort in the peaceful sound of the air whistling as it is cut by your blade.

That peace is shattered by a loud and cutting voice from directly behind you.

"How adorable. The Scorpion thinks he's a warrior."

Slowly, you lower your blade and turn to face the owner of the voice. It appears your practice routine has drawn some attention - a full patrol squad of a dozen Matsu bushi are standing in a loose group a short distance away, while the largest of their number regards you with a contemptuous sneer.

Respond
- [ ] Write in

GM's note - I have not forgotten the rest of the write in, but it is very late here and I've decided to try and work that into future updates rather tha delay this one any further.

 

[Maugan Ra]

You study the Matsu warrior for a moment, eyes flicking back and forth across his heraldry and stance even as your mind works through several plausible courses of action. In the end, though, you opt for discretion, as best serves the needs of your Clan.

"I am what I am, what fate and my own will have made me." You say simply, enjoying the momentary look of surprise on your opponent's face as you sidestep the obvious insult. "Currently, I seek to improve myself, as all samurai should."

The Lion hesitates for a moment, clearly wrong-footed. You suspect that he was expecting you to react like a fellow Lion, and instantly challenge him to a duel for slandering you in such a fashion. Indeed, you can almost see the series of thoughts going through his mind, and the conclusion he reaches is predictable - if you will not avenge an insult, it must be because you are too weak and scared to do so.

"I suppose I cannot blame you. No man could look upon the Lion without feeling shame over his own inadequacies." He taunts you, and despite your best intentions your hand tightens on the hilt of your katana, causing the blade to shift noticeably. An insult to one's self can be born with grace, and insult to one's clan and family must be answered. But you are Scorpion, and you will address these problems in the correct way or not at all.

"I will be participating in the upcoming Kenjutsu tournament." You say flatly, once more throwing your opponent off balance, for surely a coward would do no such thing. "Ask your sensei to enter your name as my opponent for the first round, and I will welcome your interest."

Behind your accuser, the rest of the squad look at each other in consideration, their unified support for their kin momentarily broken. To not only retaliate for the insult but escalate it to a stage where all the court will be able to watch, that was clearly not what they were expecting. By doing so you have both met their challenge and taken control of the situation from them, for there is no way to make a training ground showdown seem like the more honourable choice compared to a duel in front of their own superiors. You give them a moment to follow that line of thought, and then continue.

"If that is not what you wish... perhaps you could be clearer about your intentions?"

Uncertain and out maneuvered, the young Matsu defaults to what might almost be an instinctive response. His katana hisses faintly as he begins to draw it, and his face contorts into a mask of furious rage.

"I will..."

"You will do nothing." The voice is quiet, almost soft, yet it cuts through the air like a whip. Startled, you and the squad of Lions turn to look over at the source. Standing a short distance away from the confrontation and studying it with a fiercely dissapproving look in his eyes is a young boy, perhaps eight to ten years of age at the most and dressed in the humble clothes of a student at one of the castle's dojos. He should not appear even slightly threatening, and yet some instinct causes you to return your sword to its sheathe rather than risk offering any kind of visible threat.

It is not an instinct shared by your opponent, who merely snorts and waves his hand in a dismissive fashion. "Run back to your mother, boy. This does not concern you."

Surprisingly, the student merely smiles, a razor-edged expression without any kind of genuine amusement to it. "My name is Matsu Nimuro." He says sharply. "My mother is Matsu Ketsui. Are you sure you wish me to... 'run back to her'?"

It is truly amazing, you think to yourself, just how quickly the colour can leave a man's face. The moment the boy's name registers with the hostile samurai they throw themselves to the ground so hard you suspect they might have injured themselves, pressing their foreheads against the stone floor in absolute deference.

"My sincerest apologies, Matsu-dono." Their leader croaks out, evidently horrified at the sheer magnitude of his error. Considering that the boy could quite easily demand his death in exchange for the insult, or at the very least utterly ruin his entire career with only a few words, you cannot help but feel that the reaction is entirely appropriate.

"I am not the one you should be apologizing to, samurai-san." The young lord says coldly, indicating you with a quick gesture. "The Scorpion is a guest here, and entitled to our hospitality."

There is no direct command there, and likely there cannot be, since Nimuro is too young to hold formal authority. Even so the suggestion is crystal clear, and without looking up the formerly brash young Lion shifts slightly towards you, not lifting his gaze from the ground.

"My most humble apologies, Scorpion-sama." He says, every word sounding like it causes him physical pain. "My pride overcame my sense of courtesy. It will not happen again."

He does not sound particularly sincere, and it seems abundantly obvious that he is only saying these things because he feels compelled to. Even so, it is an apology of sorts, and now you must decide how to react to it.

Respond:
[ ] Accept the apology
[ ] Reject the apology
[ ] Write in

 

[Maugan Ra]

For a moment, you are tempted to exploit the situation, to degrade and destroy this arrogant fool who thought to make a mockery of the Scorpion Clan and escape retaliation. But... no, now is neither the time nor the place for such things. The son of the local Daimyo is standing right there, and your mission comes above any such petty things as personal desires.

"Matsu-san, I accept your apology in the spirit it was offered." You say calmly, taking some small measure of satisfaction at the genuine surprise you can feel emanating from your bested opponent. Everything about this little confrontation has gone very strangely from his perspective, and that thought pleases you. Perhaps the fool will be more careful when dealing with Scorpion in the future. Who knows?

Still, you are not quite done yet, and with that thought you turn and bow low to the young Matsu lord. Since he has no direct authority over you there is no need to prostrate yourself, but you make sure your bow is properly low and respectful all the same. No need to be making enemies, after all.

"My apologies for allowing this to disrupt your day, young lord." You say clearly.

"Think nothing of it, Scorpion-san." Matsu Nimuro says politely. "I must attend to my duties, but I shall make a point of looking for you in the tournament. Good day."

With that, he turns and departs, followed a few moments later by the squad of Lion bushi. You watch them go, and then return to your practice. You need to remain sharp, after all.

-/-

By demonstrating self control under pressure and remaining courteous even in the face of outright insult and provocation, Naoto has earned seven points of honour.

Naoto faced down a squad of Lion bushi without fear and without losing his On, all in view of many other samurai and a member of the nobility. Word of this will spread. He gains one point of glory.

-/-

In the time remaining before you must depart, you make sure to seek out Pale Oak for a quick conversation. The scribe listens to your commands attentively, and agrees to carry them out.

"I believe I will be able to provide you with a full list of the relevant individuals by the end of the week, Soshi-dono." He says politely. "I will let you know if we run into any complications. Otherwise, please leave it in our hands."

It is as you are returning to your quarters that you encounter one of the local servants, a Heimin girl in subdued robes of dull orange and yellow. You flag her down in the corridor and take her aside for a moment, politely ignoring the way that she trembles slightly at the attention.

"I was wondering if you could help me, servant-san." You say politely. "I wish to experience the town during my stay here. Do you have any suggestions about what I might find entertaining? Tea houses, places of entertainment, that sort of thing."

The servant girl trembles like a leaf, evidently entirely unused to being addressed directly by one above her station. "Forgiveness, please, samurai-sama... I... I would not presume to pass judgement on what you might or might not enjoy..."

"That is quite alright." You respond patiently. "Tell me, then, what do you enjoy? Doubtless you attend to your duties with skill and dedication, but where do you or your family like to go when your lords do not have instructions for you?"

"I... the Silver Leaf tea house is very nice?" The girl offers nervously, and you nod in encouragement. "And my uncle works at the Five Arches theater. He is a dedicated man, and his lord has always been pleased with the quality of the performances enacted there..."

"Marvelous." You say with a smile. "I will be sure to try those establishments out myself. Thank you for your assistance, servant-san. I will not keep you from your duties any longer."

The servant thanks you profusely and then departs, evidently deeply uncertain about the whole encounter. You smile slightly to yourself and then return to your duties.

-/-

By showing kindness to one beneath his station, Naoto has earned four points of honour.

-/-

Later that night, you kneel in front of Yogo Hanzo as he calls upon the power of the kami. It is a strangely subdued affair, for all its spiritual import - there are no great invocations of power, no flashy lights or pillars of flame. The Shugenja simply intones a quiet prayer in a language you can never learn to speak and touches you lightly on the shoulder.

You feel the effects at once. It is difficult to describe, but if pressed you would say that you feel healthy, like you are connected to some great source of internal vitality that you had never before known to exist. It is a strange sensation, but not entirely unwelcome.

"I have called the spirits of the earth to your side, Soshi-san." Hanzo explains as you rise back to your feet. "They will dwell within you for a time, likely no more than an hour or two, and ensure that your body remains pure. This will help you resist drugs and poison of all kinds - most notably, you should find it very difficult to become drunk."

"Thank you, Yogo-san." You say, aware that your voice sounds almost reverent. It is one thing to know that Shugenja are the priests of the Kami, but quite another to see and feel what that means in person. "Hopefully, I will not require it."

"It is always better to be certain. May you find success, Soshi-san." Yogo Hanzo says gravely, before turning to depart.

-/-

Slipping out of the castle is relatively easy, since you are not by nature inclined to attract attention and your position as a guest here gives you full access to anywhere that is not specifically restricted. As it turns out, the rear of the castle ends up merging almost seamlessly into the outer edges of the town that supports it, separated only by a wall that is more ceremonial than practical. Evidently the Matsu are much more concerned about attacks through Beiden Pass than they are enemies which manage to reach them across the length of the Lion's ancestral heartland. All things considered, this is not entirely unreasonable.

The streets of the town themselves are much more subdued than those of other settlements you have visited, especially considering the late hour. The peasants scurry about their duties with heads bowed and voices lowered, and the buildings themselves are constructed in a stark and functional style that leaves little room for beauty. Under the iron gaze of Shiro Matsu, there is no time of levity.

The impression fades as you head deeper into the town, energy returning to the people in increments as you lengthen the distance between them and their lords. Architecture softens, people talk and smile, and before too long you can hear the sounds of laughter and music lingering in the air once again. In such an atmosphere it does not take you long to locate the House of the Mountain Swallow. The geisha house is beautiful in a restrained and dignified way, the rice paper walls decorated with images of flying birds and magnificent mountain scenery.

Scarcely have you stepped through the door than you are greeted and steered inside by one of the servants. The mysterious note was accurate about this much, at least, for the staff here certainly seem to have been expecting you. As is customary, you leave your swords in the care of the staff and allow them to escort you to a private meeting room.

Inside, sitting on a decorated cushion behind a low table and dressed in casual robes of gold and brown, is Ikoma Genji, the Karo to Daimyo Matsu Ketsui.

"Good evening, Soshi-san. Thank you for coming." He says in quiet tones, gesturing to the cushions on the far side of the table. "Please, sit."

Surprised, you do as bid, settling yourself down comfortably even as your mind races. There seems little to say, however, so you simply remain silent and wait for the Lion to speak.

"Tell me, Soshi-san, why do you think I have called you here?"

Respond:
[ ] Write in

 

[Maugan Ra]

You do not answer straight away, for this is a question that deserves a moment of thought. But nor can you simply stare at the Ikoma in silence, for such would be rude and perhaps indicate that you have no answer to give. Instead, you focus on examining your surroundings, for you have never been invited into a private room within a geisha house before.

Everything here is tasteful and designed to be aesthetically pleasing, from the beautifully carved wooden table to the works of art decorating the walls. Distantly you can hear the sound of friendly conversation and laughter, but it almost seems to be part of a different world - indeed, such might be the intended effect, for you have heard that the geisha often hold themselves apart from the world that the rest of Rokugan inhabits.

"As much as I might wish it was my company, Ikoma-sama, I have no doubt that you have far more interesting companions to spend the evening with." You say, confident in a reasonably safe opening. Indeed, merely by meeting you here Ikoma Genji is displaying his wealth and political connections - an okaasan will not simply allow anybody in to their house, and arranging a private meeting in a place like this must have taken a great deal of time and money. Indeed, you have heard that a private session with a geisha can cost as much as ten koku.

"The women of the House of the Mountain Swallow are indeed excellent company." Ikoma Genji replies, smiling broadly. "Indeed, I think any meeting is left incomplete without their peerless skills. If you do not object?"

Your consent is merely a formality, both of you know this, but for the sake of propriety you incline your head in agreement. Genji claps his hands, and the screen door behind him slides open, revealing a slender woman in a beautiful autumn-colored kimono. She is the very picture of feminine grace and beauty, and without a word needing to be said glides across the room to seat herself between you and Ikoma Genji, far enough away from the table to make it clear she is not directly involved but still clearly able to hear and observe everything. A younger woman, her face covered in white makeup, follows her in and passes her an elegant biwa before departing again. Within a few moments, the room is full of soft and enchanting sound of music.

For a moment you consider adopting a more secretive air... but Genji invited the geisha in, so he clearly believes he can trust her in this matter, and you would not wish to doubt his judgement in front of him. Besides, the music truly is rather lovely.

"In light of such a masterful example," you incline your head to the geisha, who smiles demurely at the compliment, "I can only assume that you wish to speak with me on some topic - specifically one that requires us meeting directly, rather than something that can be entrusted to an appropriate intermediary."

Genji nods approvingly, evidently completely at ease, and you have to admit a certain professional respect for his skill. He's not hiding his emotions behind a mask or exhibiting rigid self control - he truly is completely at ease, and entirely willing to show that to anyone who cares to look. Your training always assumed that the other party would be trying to hide their true feelings to some degree, and the complete openness is making you feel distinctly unbalanced.

"At this point, most would conclude that you seek an ally in managing the work of court while our superiors enjoy their rivalry." You say, watching for reactions and seeing none. "Others might say that you seek an alternate route into the Scorpion delegation, for any number of reasons. The foolish might guess that you desire assistance with a task that is not readily performed by a Lion."

At this, Ikoma Genji shows genuine surprise, raising his eyebrows and sitting back slightly. "I would have thought such things reserved for the theater, Soshi-san. Are you telling me that people approach the Scorpion for such things so regularly that you actually expect it?"

"Our reputation works against us both there, I fear." You reply, not quite willing to admit that yes, people can and do ask the Scorpion for their unique brand of assistance on a reasonably common basis. "We have been portrayed as the knowing villains in the minds of samurai for so long that reality and perception have become somewhat blurred. Which in turn suggests to people that one only meets a Scorpion covertly if they have something dishonourable in mind. As I said - foolish."

"All potential options, Soshi-san, and it's always good to see people willing to think broadly about such things." Ikoma Genji says with the sort of air one might expect from a teacher watching an apt pupil. "Have you a favourite of the theories?"

"Ultimately, Ikoma-sama, I do not believe you have only one reason to summon me." You admit. "It would seem almost insulting to presume that a man in a position such as yours would operate on such a simple level."

"I confess, it is nice to be appreciated." The Karo says with a broad smile, pausing for a moment to enjoy the music. "Which is not to say that my own lord does not, by any means. Matsu-dono is a keen student of Leadership, and prefers to rely on the counsel of valued experts and specialists rather than dismissing the importance of any areas she herself is inexpert in."

"A wise lord is a blessing to her people." You respond, acknowldging both the surface information about the Daimyo and the thinly veiled warning against underestimating her. Genji did not come out and say that she knows about this meeting, but the implication is there, which could mean many different things.

"Just so." Ikoma Genji agrees. "Fortunately, Rokugan is currently blessed with many wise lords, and so can expect to flourish in the days to come. Among them, for example, would be Doji Kuwanan."

You blink in momentary surprise, knowing that this cannot be a truly random topic even if it feels like it. "I have heard many stories of the Crane Clan Champion." You say cautiously, unwilling to commit to any one version of them just yet.

"I am not surprised - the Champion was always memorable, even when fostered to the Akodo during his youth." Genji replies, and despite his casual air you understand that you are nearing the crux of the issue. "Indeed, many of his old classmates and sensei keep in touch with him. I myself am friends with his old Kenjutsu instructor."

With slow, unhurried movements, Genji produces a bottle of sake and two bowls, pouring the clear liquid into each. "After court opened, I spoke with my old friend and discussed matters with him, for a good sensei always has useful advice to offer. He was quite surprised, to say the least - apparently his correspondence had led him to expect a rather different attitude from the Crane delegation. And a different delegate, for that matter."

The Karo pushes the sake dish across the table to you. "I was wondering if you might be willing to share your own insights on this whole matter."

Respond
[ ] Write in

 

[Maugan Ra]

[X] "There are many possibilities here. But the most important piece of information is whether this is happening with Crane-dono's consent or not. It is possible that he has put the needs and desires of his Clan above his personal relationships. I do not know enough about the man to so accurately assess his character. The more sinister possibility is that the intended Crane Delegation has been and replaced without his knowledge.
"Knowing how the Crane are acting in other Winter Courts would help distinguish whether the Crane are acting cohesively, or if only this one, or a small number of delegations have gone rogue. Cleanly replacing all of them would be nigh impossible, after all. I can arrange discrete inquiries to the Scorpion courts as I am sure you have already done for the Lions. However, it will take some time for the answers to reach us.
"The other option is of course to look into the Crane delegation directly, which I find myself in a good position to do."

Click to shrink...

Ikoma Genji listens to your analysis in silent interest, his lips quirking into what might almost be a smile as he registers what you are not saying. Nothing you have said so far could be taken as a commitment to actually act on his behalf, and the Lion is not so foolish as to read a promise in a vague statement of possibilities.

"I am afraid my understanding of matters of subterfuge is rather limited." He says casually, for such is no great flaw in an honourable samurai. "Still, all I have heard of Doji Kuwanan indicates that he is a worthy soul, and I should hate to discover that his old sensei was so wrong about his character."

"Doubtless one does not become a revered sensei without displaying an excellent judge of character." You say in agreement, reading the hidden meaning behind the statement easily. Genji would actually prefer that the Crane delegation be imposters, or at the very least acting on their own. That would allow him to contain the situation without sparking an inter-clan incident.

"The necessary experience often brings such skills with it." Genji says blandly. "Still, while I would appreciate your assistance in this matter, I am not unsympathetic to your own situation. There is no formal alliance between our Clans, and a loyal samurai must always think of the interests of his lord before those of another."

"My own sensei would be greatly disappointed in me if I were to do anything else." You reply calmly, aware that you are both negotiating price and that neither of you can come out and say such a thing without endangering the whole agreement.

"And yet such loyalty often leads to misunderstandings of a most unfortunate sort. Especially when borders become involved." Genji says in tones of lamentation.

"The world would be a finer place without such unfortunate events, that no man can deny." You say cautiously, wondering where he is going with this.

"Then perhaps we should seek to avoid such problems in the future." Ikoma Genji says, as though the idea has just occurred to him. "With an embassy, for example, within the walls of Shiro Matsu. That would allow my Clan and yours to cooperate in order to identify and resolve any minor issues that might otherwise threaten to become serious problems between our respective people."

That... is quite an offer. If nothing else, you are reasonably sure that no other Clan has an established embassy within Shiro Matsu. The possible applications of such an advantage are considerable, and being able to go back to your superiors within the Scorpion with such an offer would go a long way towards improving your own reputation.

On the other hand, if you take the implied bargain, Ikoma Genji will expect you to hold up your end of the deal. Such an agreement will undeniably shape your behaviour and options in the weeks and months to come.

The deal offered is essentially broad assistance with Genji's problems in exchange for a Scorpion Embassy and exclusive access to the Matsu in the future. Do you take the deal?
[ ] Yes
[ ] No
[ ] Yes, but on different terms (write in)

 

[Maugan Ra]

On Honour and the Scorpion

So, I figured I should probably sit down and actually outline how Honour is going to work in this Quest, which is an extension of my own views on the topic. Note that this is kind of homebrew to a certain extent, because the rules can never hope to really encompass an entire philosophy of life followed by hundreds of thousands of people in various divergent ways.

In a mechanical sense, your Honour score is a numerical value from 0-10, with 0 being 'Honourless Dog' and 10 being 'Strength of a Thousand Ancestors'. Naoto currently has an Honour score of 4.2, which is described as 'What is Expected'.

Gains and losses in Honour are awarded in 'Points', each of which is worth 0.1 Honour on the overall scale. Different acts and behaviours give or cost you different amounts of Honour points. Notably, there is an increasing gradient in play - at higher levels of Honour, positive actions award fewer points and negative ones cost more.

Mechanically, the primary benefit of Honour is that you can add your score to any rolls made to resist fear, intimidation or temptation. It is also your one source of 'rerolls' - if you fail a roll, you may choose to use your Honour rank as rolled and kept dice on a reroll in order to try and succeed despite the initial failure. It can also be perceived to a certain degree by other samurai (generally by succeeding on a TN 30 test of Lore: Bushido/Awareness, though I would lower the target number if you observe the target at moments of moral choice).

What is Honour?

Honour is, essentially, your adherence to a personal code of conduct, and the strength you draw from that. It is the foundation which supports and reinforces your overall character, the integrity and principles that make you who you are. In many ways it represents your efforts to realize your ideal self image, and be the person that you want to be.

In Rokugan, the default set of principles for a samurai is the Code of Bushido, though others (such as the Code of the Wasp or the Way of Shourido) do exist. A thousand years of social convention and reinforcement have established 'adhering to Bushido' as being all but indistinguishable from 'being a good person' for the samurai, and even those who do not follow all of its tenants do not usually disagree with them - the Scorpion still think of themselves as villains for their constant violation of honour, they simply believe that such is a necessary sacrifice.

So far, Naoto is receiving numerous increases in Honour because he has been acting according to a strong set of personal beliefs. He is loyal to his clan, he shows kindness to those below him, and he is civil even to those who think themselves his enemy. These contribute to his self image and inform his choices - you will note, for example, that several times an update has made mention of Naoto being tempted by or considering a course of action but deciding against it because it conflicts with his duty. The more he resists such temptation, the easier it becomes, represented by adding his Honour rank to resisting Temptation rolls.

Why do the Scorpion distrust Honour?

The Scorpion and the Crab are the two Clans who start with low Honour scores - generally 2.5 for their Bushi and Courtiers. This not because they are bad people (though individual members of each Clan can be), it is because they are pragmatists. The Crab have no time for pretty speeches or shining ideals on the Wall, and the Scorpion define themselves as being willing to dirty their hands with the unpleasant but necessary tasks to keep the Empire running.

The Scorpion in particular disdain those with a rigidly inflexible moral code because they believe it will constrain them and prevent them from following or even considering certain courses of actions. In the Courts, playing dirty often works, and the Clan of Secrets has no patience for those who would shun a viable strategy due to their own squeamishness. This is where their concept of Junshin comes from, and why they instinctively distrust those who think of themselves as highly principled. Bayushi Yojiro is a fine example, because when the Clan ordered him to destroy a man on their orders despite the fact that said man had done nothing wrong, he hesitated. The fact that he went through with it afterwards means relatively little.

That said, the Scorpion are also the Clan of Loyalty. They hold to the virtue of duty/loyalty with an almost maniacal fervour, and it informs the basic moral code that all true Scorpion abide by. If Naoto can demonstrate that his personal code and increasingly high Honour score supports his loyalty rather than conflicting with it, the Scorpion are likely to embrace and support him just as much or even more than any other Clan would.

It is a narrow road to walk and one easy to falter on, but if you can pull it off you'll earn the respect and admiration of all the Clans, not just your own.

 

[Maugan Ra]

There is no real choice in the matter. Your mission here is to serve as the Clan's representative to the Matsu and to make sure that passage through Beiden Pass remains free and unobstructed. What Ikoma Genji is offering you will accomplish all of those goals in a single move, while also offering your Clan a powerful position of influence not just with the Lion, but also with every other Clan that wishes to deal with the Matsu themselves.

Judging by the knowing look in his eyes, the Ikoma is perfectly aware of just how valuable his offer is. With such a thing he could almost extort your delegation for almost any kind of price he could think of, but where it would be reasonable to reject the proposal for having an unbearable set of conditions attached, you do not relish the idea of telling your lords that you turned down such an advantage for mere convenience. No, you are left with little choice but to accept and support the Ikoma in his mission for however long it takes.

For a moment, you wonder what is going on behind the scenes in the Lion Clan to justify such a thing. Some sort of ongoing dispute between the Ikoma and the Matsu, perhaps? Something to mention in your report to your superiors, perhaps... but not of immediate interest. Right now, your focus must be on securing the offered alliance before it can be withdrawn.

"That sounds like an excellent idea, Ikoma-sama." You say, and for all that the Lion has maneuvered you into this you cannot deny that it remains an appealing prospect. "I am sure my lords will be most interested in establishing such a point of contact with the Matsu family. Of course, such an arrangement should be made at an auspicious time, after we have demonstrated that inter-Clan cooperation can achieve real and lasting results."

"I am delighted to hear it, Soshi-san." Ikoma Genji says warmly. "And I quite agree about the timing. Good news, and your superior's favourable impression, will make convincing my own lord of the virtue of this idea much easier."

The two of you pick up your sake dishes, lift them in salute to each other, and drink to seal the deal. From there, the conversation turns to less serious topics, as you discuss history and art to the accompanying music of the beautiful geisha.

-/-

Soshi Naoto has established a relationship with prominent members of two different Clans and managed to defuse a potentially serious conflict with minimal shame to all involved. The lessons he has learned in the process will stand him in good stead for the future, and he gains five experience points as a result.

How do you spend your experience?
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QM's note - The next scene is intended to be the poetry and calligraphy lessons with Doji Mariko. A good performance there will award you with ranks in the relevant skills free of charge.

Please indicate any measures or preparation you wish to make ahead of your meeting with the Crane.
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[Maugan Ra]

The next day, you dress in respectable but understated clothes and set off to pay a visit to the Crane delegation. You had half expected to run into serious difficulties acquiring the supporting material for your poetry, but whatever the stereotypes might say about the Matsu family they are still samurai, and therefore just as interested in cultured pursuits as the rest of the Empire.

Once you explained your intentions to Bayushi Kimoko (who came back from her dinner with the daimyo smiling in a way you can only describe as mischievous), she was quite happy to lend you the funds to secure the supplies. Your news about the offer from Ikoma Genji was met with thoughtful consideration, though in the end your superior agreed that the circumstances leave you little choice but to cooperate. When you mention the concerns about the Crane, however, Kimoko goes silent and still. You get the feeling that she has her own suspicions on the matter, but she is refusing to share them just yet. It is frustrating, but such is her right as your superior.

Shaking your head, you focus your attention back on the meeting to come. The Crane delegation have been housed in the same tower as you, two levels up, and like you have been given the entire level to themselves. There are no servants around at the moment, so you approach unobserved, and as you draw near to the entrance you cannot help but overhear the sound of sharp words and angry declarations from within their quarters. Good social etiquette would insist that you block the sounds out and pretend not to have noticed anything - a necessary habit in a nation where the primary building material for interior walls is rice paper and thin wooden slats - but you are Scorpion. Turning down such an opportunity would be most unlike you.

You cannot actually discern individual words, but there is no mistaking the contrasting tones of Daidoji Chen and Doji Mariko (it occurs to you that you have never actually heard their Kakita companion speak a word). That they are arguing seems obvious, and if you had to guess you would say that Chen is the aggressor here, angrily questioning his superior on some topic or other. Before you can peace together anything more, though, they break off and a shadow grows on the rice paper as one of them approaches the door.

Daidoji Chen slides the door open with perfect calm, nothing in his expression or bearing giving the slightest hint of the tensions you believe to be present. He nods to you briefly, a gesture which you return - there is no need for bowing when simply passing one another in the hallway - and proceeds past you towards the tower exit.

"Soshi-san, welcome." Doji Mariko calls from inside, having caught a glimpse of you through the open door. "Your punctuality is commendable. Please, come in."

You enter as invited, taking a moment to glance around as you do so. It does not escape notice that the Crane's quarters are rather more luxuriously appointed than your own - silk cushions, works of art and other luxuries are apparent everywhere you look. Doji Mariko is seated in the centre of the room before a cherry-wood table, a small stack of paper and several fine brushes arranged next to her.

You bow, take a seat and move through the formalities of presenting your gift - a branch of jasmine, acquired from a gardener in the town and chosen in reference to one of several ways in which you could write your host's name. Mariko goes through the ceremonial rejections, but appears pleased by the thoughtfulness implied by the gift. That done, she takes some of your existing work and looks over it in silence for a few minutes while you wait patiently.

"Soshi-san, might I offer some criticism?" She says gently, setting down the paper and looking at you with an aura of serenity around her.

"By all means, Doji-sama." You reply smoothly, aware that this was likely coming. "I should be a poor student if I was unwilling to hear my own faults."

Mariko smiles softly, an almost whimsical edge to her expression. "You are studying poetry. It is pointless, and you should stop."

For a moment, you can only blink in subdued shock. That was... well, rather more direct than you were expecting. "I am afraid I do not understand, Doji-sama."

"It is obvious to look at, as plain as the mask on your face." The courtier says, indicating the paper with your words upon it. "You are trying to produce your best poetry, drawing upon whatever tools you have available. Tell me, did you study a Sajiki when composing these?"

Slowly, you nod. "Expanding my vocabulary seemed the best way to improve, Doji-sama."

"It can help, certainly, but it is not a path that you can walk for very far." The Crane replies, folding her hands in her lap. "One can study poetry in great detail, much as you study your history or geography, learning the names of famous composers and the origins of different styles... but this will not make you any better at poetry. A true poet does not worry about sentence structure or the rules of composition when creating a new piece of art, he simply does it. His mind is free of such distractions, a blank canvas upon which his drive and creativity will create true beauty."

"Mushin no Shin." You murmur as understanding comes to you. Mariko smiles and inclines her head.

"Precisely. Mind without mind, thought without thought. Do not seek to compose a perfect verse, any more than you would seek to calculate a perfect strike. Clear your mind, exist in the moment, and act."

How do you wish to continue this conversation?
[ ] Focus exclusively on your lessons.
[ ] Enquire about a certain topic
- [ ] Specify which and how you broach it.
[ ] Flirt
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