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<blockquote data-quote="Vanifae" data-source="post: 5257504" data-attributes="member: 58765"><p><strong>Session 1: Tournament of the Samurai – Part 4</strong></p><p></p><p><em>16th of the Dragon 1172 IC, Pale Oak Castle, home of Asako Shizu, Phoenix Daimyo</em></p><p></p><p>The Isawa karo speaks firmly, “If anyone has any information about this murder please speak up, the honor of the Phoenix is at stake.”</p><p></p><p>A stalwart Lion clan samurai Ikoma Katsu speaks, “Hai, Isawa-sama I did see Mirumoto Rai-san leaving Asako-sama’s chambers. He had a green cloth about his head. Hida Fuya-san saw it as well.”</p><p></p><p>Hida Fuya, a stern rugged crab bushi nods, “Hai, I will vouch for Ikoma-san’s testimony.” </p><p></p><p>Mirumoto Rai arrives just as he hears his name tied to this ghastly murder and protests his innocence, “No! I could not have done it!”</p><p></p><p>“Mirumoto-san if you claim innocence, then where were you?” Shiba Reikun scowls, “Answer that!”</p><p></p><p>The Isawa karo nods glaring at the young Dragon. Rai-san glances down, “I… I was wandering the halls alone.”</p><p></p><p>“Did anyone see you?” the Isawa karo demands.</p><p></p><p>“I don’t think so,” the Dragon bushi replies defeated.</p><p></p><p>Mayako speaks up having arrived shortly after the Dragon bushi, “That isn’t true Isawa-sama. Mirumoto Rai-san is innocent he was…” she pauses considering her next words, “he was with Doji Aiko-sama they were together alone in a chamber. He could not have done this, the two were sharing a passionate moment together as scandalous as that may be.”</p><p></p><p>There are gasps and whispers and the Phoenix karo frowns.</p><p></p><p>Mirumoto Rai looks defeated and admits his guilt, “Agasha-san is correct I was alone with Doji Aiko-sama… I was protecting her honor but it seems the Fortunes wish me to suffer for my sins.”</p><p></p><p>“Calm yourself Mirumoto-san, you do not have to protect me,” Doji Aiko-sama speaks drawing all eyes to her freshly bathed face. Her kimono clings somewhat scandalously to her slight frame, her hair damp from a warm bath. The Crane courtier bows her head solemnly, “Isawa Masahiro-sama you have my greatest condolences for this heinous crime but I must correct the details of Agasha-san’s testimony.”</p><p></p><p>“Please do,” the Isawa karo replies sternly.</p><p></p><p>“It is true I met in secret with Mirumoto-san but it was no an illicit encounter, we were discussing sensitive diplomatic matters that would further cement our two houses in an alliance. These matters as you are no doubt aware of require a delicate touch, and secrecy is often the norm as is privacy,” she says with a narrowed glance to Mayako.</p><p></p><p>Shiatari taking moment to stab at her enemy quips, “Does your husband know about your private meetings?”</p><p></p><p>“Indeed he does and he approves of them, we serve our clan equally and I would never shame my husband with such shameful acts as Agasha-san has described. I am sure she merely mistook our private meeting for something far more, it is a forgivable action. Isawa-sama I apologize for this impertinence and please Mirumoto-san he was only trying to protect me and the honor of his house, he is young and foolish,” Aiko finishes with a respectful bow.</p><p></p><p>“You have always acted with honor Doji-san and I will accept your testimony,” the karo nods. He turns to those gathered, “We still must find this murderer and bring him to justice, as I have said before none may leave these premises until we have solved this matter.”</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: green"><em>[In the text of the adventure revealing the affair between Rai and Aiko is supposed to end with both seeking seppuku to cleanse their shame. But my version of Doji Aiko differs considerably from her as written she is a far craftier and more ruthless woman, think Atia from the HBO series Rome. She is also higher status than the players and was able to use her “honorable” testimony to supersede Mayako’s testimony. It was an interesting moment and the players incidentally made two enemies in one fell swoop there, although technically Aiko was already Shiatari’s enemy. It was a fun scene to be sure. – GM’s note]</em></span></strong></p><p></p><p>Mayako’s mother approaches the samurai-ko gently fanning herself, “The honor of the Phoenix must be upheld, I have offered your services to Isawa Masahiro-sama, Asako Shizu-sama’s karo. Do everything you can to find this murderer and bring them to justice. He is expecting you.”</p><p></p><p>The karo sighs shaking his head sadly as the two samurai-ko enter the late Shizu-sama’s chambers. His corpse kneeling in front of a tipped over desk with a Dragon marked blade in his back. Isawa-sama summons an eta, Chop, to assist in the investigation as Mayako and Shiatari examine the scene. Neither is especially trained in investigation but they find clues easy enough.</p><p></p><p>Mayako examines the wound and finds that the blade killed the aging Phoenix almost immediately. Shiatari can see that the strike was done by a well trained hand that knew the right point to strike for the most effect. Both spot a shred of green cloth in his hands which they command Chop to retrieve for them.</p><p></p><p>Chop does so and hands it to Mayako who quips, “Curious.”</p><p></p><p>“Curious, more like suspicious,” Shiatari replies glancing down at the Phoenix corpse.</p><p></p><p>“He died instantly,” she says dangling the cloth, “so how did this get into his hands?”</p><p></p><p>“It was planted, obviously,” Shiatari says with a sarcastic tone.</p><p></p><p>“So you think someone is trying to frame the Dragon?” Mayako questions.</p><p></p><p>“We can’t assume that yet, this could be misdirection to make us think that the Dragon may not ultimately be involved. But it is suspicious,” Shiatari quips in thought.</p><p></p><p>“We need to interview witnesses,” Mayako suggests heading towards the two men who saw ‘Mirumoto Rai’. Shiatari follows falling in step and behind them the already forgotten eta Chop.</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: green"><em>[Neither character is skilled in investigation, but utilizing their knowledge of Kenjutsu, Medicine, and basic Perception they were able to piece together a few clues from a few excellent rolls. And yes Chop was quickly forgotten, poor guy. – GM-s note]</em></span></strong></p><p></p><p>Ikoma Katsu regards the women with a proper bow, Hida Fuya follows suit though less proper. Mayako questions them, “We are investigating the murder; you said you saw Mirumoto Rai-san?”</p><p></p><p>Katsu-san nods, “Yes I thought I saw him leaving Asako-sama’s chambers with a green cloth about his face. I was sure it was him, perhaps it was? But who am I to doubt the words of Doji Aiko-sama.”</p><p></p><p>Shiatari focus on Hida-san, “So you saw him as well?”</p><p></p><p>“I, I am not sure it was dark but Ikoma-san saw him, it must have been him I suppose. Why would someone dress up as Mirumoto-san, no man of honor would do such a thing. It must have been Mirumoto-san or perhaps another Dragon,” Hida-san replies.</p><p></p><p>“I agree not even the Scorpion are that low,” Ikoma-san responds then clears his throat, “I am sure I saw a Dragon and servants milling about.”</p><p></p><p>“Servants?” Shiatari says out loud to herself, looking around for the ‘invisible’ servants that scurry about the castle. She smiles with a bow, “Thank you for your time.” She motions for Mayako to follow and the two start questioning servants. After a few inquiries they find a servants that was close to Shizu-sama’s chambers polishing the floor.</p><p></p><p>The aging man keeps his eyes down to the floor, dressed in simple yet clean clothes. Shiatari commands, “Did you see anyone going to Asako-sama’s chambers?”</p><p></p><p>“Great samurai, I am but a humble servant,” the old servant replies.</p><p></p><p>“Speak,” Shiatari replies coldly.</p><p></p><p>“I… I did see Shiba Reikun-sama going to Asako-sama’s chambers. Just before the murder, I swear it is the truth great samurai,” the servant pleads.</p><p></p><p>Mayako adds, “Are you sure of this?”</p><p></p><p>“Yes, great samurai,” the servant visibly shakes with fear.</p><p></p><p>The two turn from the servant without another word and decide to find Shiba Reikun immediately. Without much recourse the samurai-ko barge into Reikun-san’s quarters shocking the trouble bushi. Reikun-san glares stammering loudly, “Get out these are my private chambers!”</p><p></p><p>“We are investigating the murder of Asako-sama, we have reason to believe you may know something of it,” Shiatari replies coolly.</p><p></p><p>Mayako adds, “What do we do now?”</p><p></p><p>Reikun seethes, “How dare you, are you accusing me of murder? I am an honorable servant of Asako-sama! We all know it was the Dragon, search their chambers!”</p><p></p><p>Shiatari shrugs then notices Chop, “Chop fetch the karo and his guards, and we will wait here.”</p><p></p><p>Reikun grimaces, “I will have your heads for this!”</p><p></p><p>When Isawa-sama arrives the two samurai-ko request to search the room. Mayako finds trace signs of blood near his bed mat and turns it over to find a bundle of green cloth stained with blood. Reikun caught red handed throws himself at the feet of his lord and confesses in whole to the murder, much to the shock of everyone in the room.</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: green"><em>[I allowed Mayako a Perception + Medicine roll TN 20 and she passed it with ease and discovered the blood. The jig was up for Reikun and the murder was solved. – GM’s note]</em></span></strong></p><p></p><p>Isawa-sama seems even more troubled but gives his thanks to Mayako and Shiatari. Shiba Reikun is hauled away to be held for execution, a somber end to an eventful evening.</p><p></p><p>Outside the chamber Takeshi is waiting with a smile, “Well that was interesting, I am glad we can put that ugliness behind us.”</p><p></p><p>“Hopefully it won’t spark any retaliation,” Shiatari adds.</p><p></p><p>Mayako shrugs not overly concerned, “I wonder why Shiba Reikun did it?”</p><p></p><p>Takeshi starts walking, “We may never know. So you two ready for the dance contest tomorrow?”</p><p></p><p>“You really think the contest will continue after this?” Mayako questions, “Sure why not, it is what Shizu-sama would have wanted probably. It seems only honorable to finish it.”</p><p></p><p>“Well in that case, I think I will need some lessons?” Shiatari adds coyly.</p><p></p><p>“Me too,” Mayako chips in embarrassed.</p><p></p><p>“Never fear, Takeshi-sensei is here to save the day,” the Sparrow bushi jokes. He spends the evening showing them many proper dances and instructs them as best as he can to help them in tomorrow’s event. Both samurai-ko also spend time ‘refreshing’ the finer points of the tea ceremony in anticipation of the final event.</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: green"><em>[This gives both characters 2 free raises for the dance competition and the 1 free raise for the Tea Ceremony; they really lack the courtly skills. – GM’s note]</em></span></strong></p><p></p><p><em>17th of the Dragon 1172 IC, Pale Oak Castle, home of Asako Shizu, Phoenix Daimyo</em></p><p></p><p>The morning is a somber mood, but the samurai continue with the tournament, beginning with the dance contest. Doji Aiko-sama goes first and does a traditional dance that is marred by her lack of focus but she performs admirably. Agasha Mayako-san performs a slow traditional dance that although aesthetically pleasing does not overly impress the judge. Several more samurai perform admirable if acceptable dances but none standout till Bayushi Shiatari having donned a new mask performs a spectacular dance inspired by the flow of water along her overly long sleeves and grace to accentuate her already practiced maneuvers. The judge is very impressed.</p><p></p><p>This act is followed by Himura Natsuko who is wearing a scandalously short kimono, it stops above her knees, and her shoulders and arms are exposed. The beautiful ronin performs an intense dance inspired the power of the typhoon and a leaf caught in it’s torturous grasp. The dance titillates and entrances most of the men in the audience as she dances to the high pace of the taiko drums. In the end she performs quite well and leaves most of her onlookers breathless.</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: green"><em>[Shiatari rolled very well and got 4 points total for her display while Mayako rolled poorly and only got 2 points. Her mother was not overly impressed. – GM’s note]</em></span></strong></p><p></p><p>The final contest is subdued and most of the contestants perform satisfactorily, only one contestant actually broke his tea set and two Unicorn samurai had no idea what they were doing at all. By the end of the contest the samurai were eager to see how well thy had done and who would be crowned the winner of the contest.</p><p></p><p>Isawa Masahiro-sama gives a short speech espousing the virtues of peace in light of the heinous murder and then announces that Bayushi Shiatara is the victor. There is much praise for the Scorpion bushi, especially from Takeshi and Mayako. Isawa-sama offers her an ancient yet beautiful fan with the Phoenix mon emblazoned on it. She accepts the gift gracefully after properly refusing it two times.</p><p></p><p>That evening Takeshi meets his new found friends in the courtyard carrying his travel gear, “It has been a pleasure Mayako-san, Shiatari-san I hope that we cross paths in the future. Congratulations on your well earned victory as well,” he says with a knowing grin.</p><p></p><p>Mayako is saddened to see her newfound friend go, “I hope to see you soon as well Takeshi-san.”</p><p></p><p>“Take care of yourself Takeshi,” Shiatari adds. With that the young Sparrow bushi turns and sets out upon more adventure, secretly hoping that their paths will once again cross as well.</p><p></p><p><em>17th of the Dragon 1172 IC, Letter to the Emerald Serpent</em></p><p></p><p>The murder of Asako Shizu-sama was executed to my satisfaction. Shiba Reikun will die for his actions but the end result fits my needs. I will see to it that a more amenable daimyo for our needs will be put into power. The Dragon cub performed adequately, though his conviction is lacking. He may not be suitable for further tasks. I will continue as planned.</p><p></p><p>Your servant,</p><p></p><p>Red Blossom Cherry</p><p></p><p><strong><span style="color: green"><em>[This is an interlude hinting at greater things. – GM’s note]</em></span></strong></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Vanifae, post: 5257504, member: 58765"] [b]Session 1: Tournament of the Samurai – Part 4[/b] [i]16th of the Dragon 1172 IC, Pale Oak Castle, home of Asako Shizu, Phoenix Daimyo[/i] The Isawa karo speaks firmly, “If anyone has any information about this murder please speak up, the honor of the Phoenix is at stake.” A stalwart Lion clan samurai Ikoma Katsu speaks, “Hai, Isawa-sama I did see Mirumoto Rai-san leaving Asako-sama’s chambers. He had a green cloth about his head. Hida Fuya-san saw it as well.” Hida Fuya, a stern rugged crab bushi nods, “Hai, I will vouch for Ikoma-san’s testimony.” Mirumoto Rai arrives just as he hears his name tied to this ghastly murder and protests his innocence, “No! I could not have done it!” “Mirumoto-san if you claim innocence, then where were you?” Shiba Reikun scowls, “Answer that!” The Isawa karo nods glaring at the young Dragon. Rai-san glances down, “I… I was wandering the halls alone.” “Did anyone see you?” the Isawa karo demands. “I don’t think so,” the Dragon bushi replies defeated. Mayako speaks up having arrived shortly after the Dragon bushi, “That isn’t true Isawa-sama. Mirumoto Rai-san is innocent he was…” she pauses considering her next words, “he was with Doji Aiko-sama they were together alone in a chamber. He could not have done this, the two were sharing a passionate moment together as scandalous as that may be.” There are gasps and whispers and the Phoenix karo frowns. Mirumoto Rai looks defeated and admits his guilt, “Agasha-san is correct I was alone with Doji Aiko-sama… I was protecting her honor but it seems the Fortunes wish me to suffer for my sins.” “Calm yourself Mirumoto-san, you do not have to protect me,” Doji Aiko-sama speaks drawing all eyes to her freshly bathed face. Her kimono clings somewhat scandalously to her slight frame, her hair damp from a warm bath. The Crane courtier bows her head solemnly, “Isawa Masahiro-sama you have my greatest condolences for this heinous crime but I must correct the details of Agasha-san’s testimony.” “Please do,” the Isawa karo replies sternly. “It is true I met in secret with Mirumoto-san but it was no an illicit encounter, we were discussing sensitive diplomatic matters that would further cement our two houses in an alliance. These matters as you are no doubt aware of require a delicate touch, and secrecy is often the norm as is privacy,” she says with a narrowed glance to Mayako. Shiatari taking moment to stab at her enemy quips, “Does your husband know about your private meetings?” “Indeed he does and he approves of them, we serve our clan equally and I would never shame my husband with such shameful acts as Agasha-san has described. I am sure she merely mistook our private meeting for something far more, it is a forgivable action. Isawa-sama I apologize for this impertinence and please Mirumoto-san he was only trying to protect me and the honor of his house, he is young and foolish,” Aiko finishes with a respectful bow. “You have always acted with honor Doji-san and I will accept your testimony,” the karo nods. He turns to those gathered, “We still must find this murderer and bring him to justice, as I have said before none may leave these premises until we have solved this matter.” [b][color=green][i][In the text of the adventure revealing the affair between Rai and Aiko is supposed to end with both seeking seppuku to cleanse their shame. But my version of Doji Aiko differs considerably from her as written she is a far craftier and more ruthless woman, think Atia from the HBO series Rome. She is also higher status than the players and was able to use her “honorable” testimony to supersede Mayako’s testimony. It was an interesting moment and the players incidentally made two enemies in one fell swoop there, although technically Aiko was already Shiatari’s enemy. It was a fun scene to be sure. – GM’s note][/i][/color][/b][color=green][i][/i][/color] Mayako’s mother approaches the samurai-ko gently fanning herself, “The honor of the Phoenix must be upheld, I have offered your services to Isawa Masahiro-sama, Asako Shizu-sama’s karo. Do everything you can to find this murderer and bring them to justice. He is expecting you.” The karo sighs shaking his head sadly as the two samurai-ko enter the late Shizu-sama’s chambers. His corpse kneeling in front of a tipped over desk with a Dragon marked blade in his back. Isawa-sama summons an eta, Chop, to assist in the investigation as Mayako and Shiatari examine the scene. Neither is especially trained in investigation but they find clues easy enough. Mayako examines the wound and finds that the blade killed the aging Phoenix almost immediately. Shiatari can see that the strike was done by a well trained hand that knew the right point to strike for the most effect. Both spot a shred of green cloth in his hands which they command Chop to retrieve for them. Chop does so and hands it to Mayako who quips, “Curious.” “Curious, more like suspicious,” Shiatari replies glancing down at the Phoenix corpse. “He died instantly,” she says dangling the cloth, “so how did this get into his hands?” “It was planted, obviously,” Shiatari says with a sarcastic tone. “So you think someone is trying to frame the Dragon?” Mayako questions. “We can’t assume that yet, this could be misdirection to make us think that the Dragon may not ultimately be involved. But it is suspicious,” Shiatari quips in thought. “We need to interview witnesses,” Mayako suggests heading towards the two men who saw ‘Mirumoto Rai’. Shiatari follows falling in step and behind them the already forgotten eta Chop. [b][color=green][i][Neither character is skilled in investigation, but utilizing their knowledge of Kenjutsu, Medicine, and basic Perception they were able to piece together a few clues from a few excellent rolls. And yes Chop was quickly forgotten, poor guy. – GM-s note][/i][/color][/b] Ikoma Katsu regards the women with a proper bow, Hida Fuya follows suit though less proper. Mayako questions them, “We are investigating the murder; you said you saw Mirumoto Rai-san?” Katsu-san nods, “Yes I thought I saw him leaving Asako-sama’s chambers with a green cloth about his face. I was sure it was him, perhaps it was? But who am I to doubt the words of Doji Aiko-sama.” Shiatari focus on Hida-san, “So you saw him as well?” “I, I am not sure it was dark but Ikoma-san saw him, it must have been him I suppose. Why would someone dress up as Mirumoto-san, no man of honor would do such a thing. It must have been Mirumoto-san or perhaps another Dragon,” Hida-san replies. “I agree not even the Scorpion are that low,” Ikoma-san responds then clears his throat, “I am sure I saw a Dragon and servants milling about.” “Servants?” Shiatari says out loud to herself, looking around for the ‘invisible’ servants that scurry about the castle. She smiles with a bow, “Thank you for your time.” She motions for Mayako to follow and the two start questioning servants. After a few inquiries they find a servants that was close to Shizu-sama’s chambers polishing the floor. The aging man keeps his eyes down to the floor, dressed in simple yet clean clothes. Shiatari commands, “Did you see anyone going to Asako-sama’s chambers?” “Great samurai, I am but a humble servant,” the old servant replies. “Speak,” Shiatari replies coldly. “I… I did see Shiba Reikun-sama going to Asako-sama’s chambers. Just before the murder, I swear it is the truth great samurai,” the servant pleads. Mayako adds, “Are you sure of this?” “Yes, great samurai,” the servant visibly shakes with fear. The two turn from the servant without another word and decide to find Shiba Reikun immediately. Without much recourse the samurai-ko barge into Reikun-san’s quarters shocking the trouble bushi. Reikun-san glares stammering loudly, “Get out these are my private chambers!” “We are investigating the murder of Asako-sama, we have reason to believe you may know something of it,” Shiatari replies coolly. Mayako adds, “What do we do now?” Reikun seethes, “How dare you, are you accusing me of murder? I am an honorable servant of Asako-sama! We all know it was the Dragon, search their chambers!” Shiatari shrugs then notices Chop, “Chop fetch the karo and his guards, and we will wait here.” Reikun grimaces, “I will have your heads for this!” When Isawa-sama arrives the two samurai-ko request to search the room. Mayako finds trace signs of blood near his bed mat and turns it over to find a bundle of green cloth stained with blood. Reikun caught red handed throws himself at the feet of his lord and confesses in whole to the murder, much to the shock of everyone in the room. [b][color=green][i][I allowed Mayako a Perception + Medicine roll TN 20 and she passed it with ease and discovered the blood. The jig was up for Reikun and the murder was solved. – GM’s note][/i][/color][/b][color=green][/color] Isawa-sama seems even more troubled but gives his thanks to Mayako and Shiatari. Shiba Reikun is hauled away to be held for execution, a somber end to an eventful evening. Outside the chamber Takeshi is waiting with a smile, “Well that was interesting, I am glad we can put that ugliness behind us.” “Hopefully it won’t spark any retaliation,” Shiatari adds. Mayako shrugs not overly concerned, “I wonder why Shiba Reikun did it?” Takeshi starts walking, “We may never know. So you two ready for the dance contest tomorrow?” “You really think the contest will continue after this?” Mayako questions, “Sure why not, it is what Shizu-sama would have wanted probably. It seems only honorable to finish it.” “Well in that case, I think I will need some lessons?” Shiatari adds coyly. “Me too,” Mayako chips in embarrassed. “Never fear, Takeshi-sensei is here to save the day,” the Sparrow bushi jokes. He spends the evening showing them many proper dances and instructs them as best as he can to help them in tomorrow’s event. Both samurai-ko also spend time ‘refreshing’ the finer points of the tea ceremony in anticipation of the final event. [b][color=green][i][This gives both characters 2 free raises for the dance competition and the 1 free raise for the Tea Ceremony; they really lack the courtly skills. – GM’s note][/i][/color][/b][color=green][i][/i][/color] [i]17th of the Dragon 1172 IC, Pale Oak Castle, home of Asako Shizu, Phoenix Daimyo[/i] The morning is a somber mood, but the samurai continue with the tournament, beginning with the dance contest. Doji Aiko-sama goes first and does a traditional dance that is marred by her lack of focus but she performs admirably. Agasha Mayako-san performs a slow traditional dance that although aesthetically pleasing does not overly impress the judge. Several more samurai perform admirable if acceptable dances but none standout till Bayushi Shiatari having donned a new mask performs a spectacular dance inspired by the flow of water along her overly long sleeves and grace to accentuate her already practiced maneuvers. The judge is very impressed. This act is followed by Himura Natsuko who is wearing a scandalously short kimono, it stops above her knees, and her shoulders and arms are exposed. The beautiful ronin performs an intense dance inspired the power of the typhoon and a leaf caught in it’s torturous grasp. The dance titillates and entrances most of the men in the audience as she dances to the high pace of the taiko drums. In the end she performs quite well and leaves most of her onlookers breathless. [b][color=green][i][Shiatari rolled very well and got 4 points total for her display while Mayako rolled poorly and only got 2 points. Her mother was not overly impressed. – GM’s note][/i][/color][/b][color=green][i][/i][/color] The final contest is subdued and most of the contestants perform satisfactorily, only one contestant actually broke his tea set and two Unicorn samurai had no idea what they were doing at all. By the end of the contest the samurai were eager to see how well thy had done and who would be crowned the winner of the contest. Isawa Masahiro-sama gives a short speech espousing the virtues of peace in light of the heinous murder and then announces that Bayushi Shiatara is the victor. There is much praise for the Scorpion bushi, especially from Takeshi and Mayako. Isawa-sama offers her an ancient yet beautiful fan with the Phoenix mon emblazoned on it. She accepts the gift gracefully after properly refusing it two times. That evening Takeshi meets his new found friends in the courtyard carrying his travel gear, “It has been a pleasure Mayako-san, Shiatari-san I hope that we cross paths in the future. Congratulations on your well earned victory as well,” he says with a knowing grin. Mayako is saddened to see her newfound friend go, “I hope to see you soon as well Takeshi-san.” “Take care of yourself Takeshi,” Shiatari adds. With that the young Sparrow bushi turns and sets out upon more adventure, secretly hoping that their paths will once again cross as well. [i]17th of the Dragon 1172 IC, Letter to the Emerald Serpent[/i] The murder of Asako Shizu-sama was executed to my satisfaction. Shiba Reikun will die for his actions but the end result fits my needs. I will see to it that a more amenable daimyo for our needs will be put into power. The Dragon cub performed adequately, though his conviction is lacking. He may not be suitable for further tasks. I will continue as planned. Your servant, Red Blossom Cherry [b][color=green][i][This is an interlude hinting at greater things. – GM’s note][/i][/color][/b] [/QUOTE]
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