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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Aug 21, 2018 23:50:24 GMT 10
In the days that followed, Harun tried to occupied himself. Practicing in the dojo, riding and spending some time in the castle library when the weather was too bad. He sat with Saigou in the evenings and they talked of other things. Happier things. Saigou shared a few stories, including some about the Legion and Harun shared some of his own. Whatever would happen, would happen. And there was nothing Harun could do to change it now. But there was something else, a slow stripping away of Harun’s image of his father. Nurtured since his childhood as a shining hero, a bright example for Harun to aspire to. This was slowly crumbling away by the possibility his father could be wrong. That he would never see eye to eye with Harun on what had happened. That he would never respect what Harun had done. And that hurt, hurt more than any wound he had had inflicted on him.
Eventually, Harun sighted the laurel banner of the Emerald Champion. Karasu rode in in the late afternoon in the autumn sunshine, flanked by Emerald Magistrate and Legionnaires. Harun stood on an upper balcony of the castle and watched them all ride in. And he knew then that he couldn’t stay. That evening, Harun came down to the family dinner that was always the tradition when his father came home. He managed to acquit himself fairly given his young siblings were also there, then afterwards he spoke to Karasu in his study and told him. Karasu’s manner was cold and emotionless. “Can you tell me why?” Harun shook his head. “Where will you go?” Karasu asked. “I thought I might go to Otosan Uchi to visit Aunt Kyoumi and Uncle Kousuda,” said Harun. “It has been a while since I have seen them…and I have wanted to since we knew about Arahime.” Karasu nodded. “They will be leaving for Kyuden Hida soon.” “Then, I won’t stay long,” said Harun. “I’ll come back here.” And then I’ll be here while you are gone, he silently added. “Very well,” said Karasu. “There will be a decision made, you understand?” “I await your judgment,” said Harun, bowing.
Harun left early the next morning. Karasu watched him, from the balcony in his quarters at the top floor of the castle. What would happen, would happen. And soon.
Two days later, Harun arrived at Shiro sano Kakita. He was received at the gate with a cold frostiness. Word of his actions at Toshi Ranbo had clearly travelled ahead. As he was the Emerald Champion’s son, a Chui of the Imperial Legions and a former Topaz Champion, Harun was known the appropriate amount of hospitality. And nothing more. A small but comfortable room in an out of the way part of the castle where he was unlikely to run into anyone. Access to the bath house, a perfectly adequate meal on a tray in his room. These indignities didn’t bother Harun, he had more or less expected him. Anyway, it was hardly fair for him to take out his frustrations on the servants when they were only following orders. But Harun was not just come here for a rest from the road. After a bath, he changed into practice clothes, made sure his hair and beard were tidy, and set out for the Kakita Duelling Academy. When he arrived, he could see sensei Kakita Hatsuko leading the younger children in basic katas in the main courtyard. The steady rhythm as they moved from one to the other, jarred a little when Hatsuko saw Harun. But no more than a beat. “Come children,”Hatsuko said. “Inside.” She looked over the children’s heads at Harun, her gaze icy. Harun retreated as the children lined up. But before he had time to leave, one of the children turned around to where Hatsuko was looking. It was his little sister Sakimi. “Harun!” She ran towards him, arms outstretched. Her questions came thick and fast. “When did you get here? Is father with you? What was Toshi Ranbo like? “Hello Sakimi-chan,” said Harun with a laugh. “I just arrived, father is not with me and Toshi Ranbo…” He looked up ass Hatsuko approached. “…is a story that can wait for another time.” He made a bow to Hatsuko. “Sensei.” Hatsuko acknowledged Harun with a silent nod as she ushered Sakimi back in line. “Will I see you later?” Sakimi asked. “Hopefully,” Harun said, watching her go. He sat down on a bench in the now empty courtyard. The glare Hatsuko gave him had chilled him. Perhaps…It was a mistake to come here, Harun thought, No, surely Master Kenshin will at least speak to me… He went to the sensei’s quarters, ignoring the stares of the people he passed, not stopping. A young student approached Harun and bowed low. “I need to speak with Master Kenshin-sensei,” said Harun. The boy took off. He took his time coming back, and when he returned he walked slowly with his eyes downcast. “Ma…Master Kenshin is not at home, he will…be back tomorrow. May…may I offer you some tea?” “Not at home?” Harun asked. “But he has hardly left the Academy in years…oh.” The classic snub that wasn’t a snub. And by not saying a word, Kenshin had shown Harun exactly what his views were on his former student’s actions. As subtle as a slammed door. Harun bristled with anger. Him too? But what should have I expected? But before him as a boy watching him with worried eyes. “Give Master Kenshin my regards when he returns from his travels,” said Harun. The boy turned and ran off. Harun strode off towards his room. With purpose, with anger in each step. The gates had closed for the night, but he would not stay a moment longer here than he had to.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Aug 22, 2018 17:39:47 GMT 10
Otosan Uchi, the first Imperial City that had been lost to the taint of Jigoku, then cleansed and then restored once more to be the capital. Harun had visited many times growing up, visiting Kyoumi and Kousuda’s house. And sometimes, rarely, even staying in his father’s quarters in the Imperial Palace. There of course was that time Akodo Ryoichi had found a very young Harun asleep behind a shoji screen while his father was in the same room having a meeting with the Emperor. Harun had ridden hard from Shiro sano Kakita, leaving at first light and riding through the night to arrive at the capital just as the gates were opening. The house where Kousuda and Kyoumi lived had not changed since Harun had last been there. There were still the white birds with the blue ribbon on the gate, painted with a smattering of wildflowers. Arahime had painted those herself, the summer before she had gone to the academy. Seeing them was bittersweet for Harun, he knocked on the gate. A servant opened it. Izumi, who had served the family before Harun was born as her parents had done. “Kakita-sama?” she bowed low. “Are you expected?” “No, I am not, don’t trouble yourself,” said Harun. He walked to the front door himself while Izumi saw about his horse. The front door open and out came Kousuda. “Harun!” He greeted him warmly. “It is good to see you! Why didn’t you write and tell us?” “It is good to see you too, Oji-san,” said Harun. “This wasn’t really planned, I hope you don’t mind.” “Not at all, not at all,” said Kousuda, ushering Harun inside. There was something different about Kousuda. More than just the additional lines on his face and grey in his hair and beard. He seemed more gregarious than usual, more effort put in to making sure Harun felt welcome in a house Harun still thought as his second home. Is this from Arahime’s death? Or from what I did? Kousuda’s association with gaijin pepper was known even if never talked about. They had light conversation over tea, talking about what had happened in the year since Harun had seen Kousuda at Shiro Moto. Toshi Ranbo even came up, Kousuda asking discreet questions that Harun felt more comfortable answering than direct ones. “So, tell me, Harun,” said Kousuda as he poured the last of the tea. “Are you just visiting, or is there is some purpose you are here for?” “Just a visit, it has been a while since I have seen you, longer since I have seen Kyoumi,” said Harun. “Is she around.” “She is resting, I am sure she will be happy to see you later,” said Kousuda. “We are in the process of preparing for the court in Kyuden Hida and will be leaving in a few days. You are, of course, welcome to stay as long as you like.” Harun shook his head. “I won’t stay long,” he said. Though he did wonder about them going to court so soon after Arahime’s death, surely they would allow them time to mourn. Harun’s question was in thought but Kousuda answered it. “It’s fairly important we attend, it will be Kyoumi’s first as the Voice of the Emperor.” Harun stared at him in shock. “She is replacing Hida Kosan-sama? Now?” Kousuda nodded. “It was time.”
The house, the garden were filled with memories for Harun. Both happy and painful. Flashes of the summer as and winters he had spent there flashing before his eyes. The Imperial Winter Court had been held a number of times in Otosan Uchi when Harun was growing up, it was far easier in the lean years of war and famine to have the Great Clans gather at the capital than to impose on meagre hospitality. So the Emerald Champion and sizable brood of children had descended on the place periodically, filling the house with the laughter of children. It was quiet now. Arahime was dead, her brothers Masarugi and Hideyaki away at school. An autumn frost covered the garden. The rock garden still, the flower beds bare of the purple saffron blooms that hid beneath the soil, waiting for spring. Harun saw Kyoumi a few times in his days there. She seemed very distant when they spoke, perhaps focusing on her new responsibilities as one of the Emperor’s Chosen. She was kept occupied in the preparations for court. The kimono fittings, the many documents she had to read. Kousuda was around more, polite and again asking no questions. Harun didn’t mind this at all, he had had far worse reception from the Crane clan. On the day before they were all due to depart, Karasu arrived at the house. Harun was outside on the porched, he wore his purple and white cloak from Unicorn lands against the cold. He heard his father talk with Kyoumi and Kousuda inside but didn’t move or speak. Then he heard the door open. Harun stood up and bowed, saying nothing. Karasu radiated cold anger. At first he didn’t look at Harun, but instead looked past him at the garden. Remembering. Remembering that he had once stood there with Harun’s mother Yamada. She had given him words of encouragement when he had needed them, and both of them hoping the war would end before Harun grew up. A vain hope. Finally he acknowledged Harun, as if reluctant to do so. Harun knew he had to speak. “Father, I await your judgment,” she said, his head still bowed. “Whatever your will is, I will follow it.” Karasu was silent for another long moment. “That is not why I have come,” he said. “I have come to tell you will be accompanying us to Kyuden Hida.” “To the Imperial Court?” Harun asked. “But…why?” Karasu held out a scroll for Harun to take. “This arrived after you left,” he said. Harun unrolled the scroll. It bore the mon of Hida Katashi, Champion of the Crab. On were a list of names from the Imperial Legions “to be honoured by the Clan of Hida”. Amongst them Harun could see Koharu, Katsura Hisato…and his own. “Me?” Harun looked up at Karasu. “They want to honour me?” Karasu frowned. “The day after you left, the brother of the Crab Champion came to me, he wanted to see you. Apparently he watched you…duel Shimekiri.” “You don’t like this,” Harun said. “I don’t, but I don’t have a choice,” said Karasu. He turned to leave, Harun watched him go. His heart in his mouth, wishing there were words he could say to make it all better, words to help move past the rift between him and his father. But there weren’t any. He went to tell Kyoumi and Kousuda the news then went to his room. After he had gone, Kyoumi and Kousuda talked. “I didn’t realise that it was this bad between them,” Kyoumi said sadly. “Neither did I,” said Kousuda. “Harun is so much like Yamada.” He sighed. “Do you there is hope for them?” “I think so,’ said Kyoumi. “We will have all winter to find out.”
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Aug 30, 2018 0:56:08 GMT 10
The road to Kyuden Hida was crowded. Not just courtiers, making their way south on horseback or palanquin, but traders also taking advantage of such an influx of people on the road. Harun travelled alone, he could have gone with one of the official parties but preferred not to. In his purple and white cloak he had a certain air of anonymity that he rather liked. Harun travelled south through Crane lands, staying in the villages and inns on the way. He was more or less lost in the crowd that were heading the same way, it was sort of refreshing. But still, he preferred to keep out of crowds while actually travelling. Too many reminders of the Legion. Finally, he entered the lands of the Crab Clan. Travelling first through the lands of the Yasuki family--the lands of his father Yasuki Nakura—and then crossing Earthquake Fish Bay to where Kyuden Hida stood proudly on the cliffs above. Massive, impressive and impregnable, the castle was decked out with flags in the colours of the Great Clans with the Imperial banner displayed most prominently. And further south still was the wall that separated Rokugan from the Shadowlands, the Kaiu Kabe. Harun had heard about it all his life, but seeing it for himself was almost unreal. Beyond imagination, beyond belief, extending west as far as the eye could see. It seemed impossible that these could be made by mere men. And not only that, but it had fallen during Harun’s lifetime. As people neared the castle, their credentials were checked before they entered. When it came time for Harun to present his chop, it couldn’t be found on the official list. “You are with the Crane Clan? What did you say your name was?” “Kakita Harun, and I might be with the Imperial Legion guests,” he said. The man did a double take and bowed low. “My apologies, Kakita-sama,” he said. “The Imperial Legion are being quartered separately.” He gave a signal for someone to take Harun’s horse and another to lead him into the castle. “Forgive me, Kakita-sama, but can I ask…is it true you killed Daigotsu Shimekiri with a gaijin powder weapon.” These words had the effect of a rock being thrown into a calm pond. Everyone fell silent around him, and Harun noticed there were a few Crane. “That was…not how it happened,” said Harun. “But yes, yes that was me.” Harun felt a swell of pride as he went up to the castle.
Carved from a mountain by Osano-Wo with lightning, Kyuden Hida was cold and severe. No paintings or tapestries adorned its walls, no gardens of flowers or trees were in its grounds. The overall effect was rather suffocating, as if one could be absorbed within the stone itself. But it was honest. Much of the castles barracks and storage rooms had been given over to the guests. Each clan had its own section with another for the Imperials, the Unicorn escaping the castle altogether and preferring to pitch their yurts in a courtyard. Harun’s room was so small it was almost cell like, one of several in a row where the other Imperial Legions were to be. He was the first to arrive, and when he went in he noticed that some of his possessions from home were there. Including the chest his mother Yamada had left him. Did father bring this? Harun wondered. Where is he? Does he mean anything by this? Harun put it out of his mind, as Saigou had said it would happen when it did. He set out to explore the rest of the castle, but not before opening the chest and getting a slight whiff of the vanilla and sandalwood scene within.
The castle was a slurry of people trying to find rooms. Servants and attendants running around with possessions. Trying to locate the bathhouse, the stores, the laundry. Kakita Kyoumi and Kousuda were shown to quarters where the Imperial Court were being house, specious befitting her status as the Voice of the Emperor. Kyoumi went about seeing to their possessions while Kousuda looked up at the blank walls. “Leave it to the Crab to not pretend,” he said dryly. Kyoumi had foreseen this, she found the hanging scrolls and silk flowers she had brought from home. “This will be a new start for us all,” she said. “And perhaps it is better we start on a blank page.”
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Sept 5, 2018 22:47:41 GMT 10
That evening after a meal, Harun went over the castle trying to find where things were. He found the dojo easily enough, simple to the point of austerity with the smell of sweat that seemed to cling to the tatami mats. He went outside, out onto the walls that made Kyuden Hida impregnable. Below him was the sea at the bottom of the cliffs, and to the south he could see the wall stretching far into the distance. There was a fresh wind blowing up here too, and it felt good to be out in it. Harun looked along the walls and saw a familiar figure. Dressed in the drab brown of a ronin, somehow looking both out of place yet in perfect command of herself. “Koharu?” She walked towards him. “Harun, so this is where you are!” She looked him up and down with some satisfaction. “Koharu-chui,” Harun said, bowing appropriate to her rank. “It feels a much longer since I have seen you last.” “It has,” she agreed. “I tried to find you after, hear all about that baka Shimekiri…but you had already left.” She sounded a little disappointed. “Yes, I left the next day,” said Harun. “What?” Koharu looked at him in shock. Harun shrugged. “My father, he reassigned me,” he said. “Not everyone was…appreciative of what I did, of how I killed Shimekiri.” Koharu gave a sound of disgust. “The baka was dead, what more could they want? If they want it different, they could have done it themselves.” She looked at him. “But they didn’t, did they? You killed him.” Harun smiled a little. “It is so good to hear you talk like that,” he said. “I’ve missed the honesty of the Legion camp, my clan is not known for such things.” “There are, perhaps, advantages to have no clan to lay claim to,” said Koharu. “Well, perhaps for not much longer,” said Harun. “What?” Koharu looked at him suspiciously. “I wouldn’t be surprised if one or more of the Great Clans approach you during court to have you swear your sword,” said Harun. “You made a name for yourself, Koharu, its how these things work.” Koharu looked sceptical. “I have hardly the illustrious ancestors to qualify.” “I doubt that will matter,” said Harun, he held out his hands. “Look at where we are, Koharu. From what I know about the Crab Clan, everything about them is proving yourself. What you can do and what you have done, and you have done that.” “And you,” Koharu added. Harun frowned. “I am not so sure about myself.” “Perhaps here you can have what your clan and family have denied you,” Koharu said. “I hope not,” said Harun. “I don’t want to be a pawn in someone else’s game. And you should be careful too, Koharu. Court is in many ways more dangerous than the battlefield.” “Ah, so the young prince is giving me advice,” Koharu said with a laugh. “And do what to plan to do with yourself?” “Keep my head down as much as I can,” said Harun.
The Imperial court started the next day. Harun had to attend at least today for the gift presentations, even if as a guest of the Crab he was a lot freer than the ones officially sent by the clans. There was something else as well, he knew Kakita Kyoumi was being presented to the court as the new Voice of the Emperor and did not want to miss that. That morning, he tried to make his kinky hair behave hoping not to resort to lacquer. It was long and getting quite unmanageable, but he managed to at least make it into a presentable topknot. After tidying his beard, he slipped into his formal kataginu. Such a pale blue it was almost white, with the Kakita mons on each side. It was long and stiff with boning, almost like trying to wear a kite. Then, after securing his daisho to his obi, he went down to court. Harun had to run the gauntlet of stares and whispers as he went though the castle. He had drawn such attention and curiosity almost all his life. Not just for being one of the Emerald Champion’s children but for his dark features. This had only increased after Harun had killed Shimekiri. Not for the first time, Harun simply wanted to disappear. He would rather people speak to him than stare. Once he got inside, Harun went to where the other Legion guests were gathered, but to do that he had to walk right past the Crane delegation who were pointedly polite to him. Doji Teruhime, daughter of Crane Champion Doji Ayumu and serving as Crane ambassador for the court, practically stared through him. Harun turned his attention to those around him instead. All were from the Imperial Legions, but he knew only Koharu and Katsura Hisato, Taisa of the First Legion. And as Harun had predicted, the two ronin were getting not a small amount of attention from some Crab bushi. There were a lot of people in the room, pressing close together for space. Harun tried not to let this bother him too much, but it felt quite closed and suffocating. The Chosen were gathered on the dais, waiting for proceedings to begin. The Imperial Advisor, Kitsuki Sakome, sitting silently in a meditation posture. Imperial Treasurer, Doji Arami, deep in conversation with the Jade Champion Tamori Hoshina. And closest to the front was Chancellor Ide Meiryo, reading a document with Kakita Kyoumi next to him. Meiyo’s rather gaijin looking attire of purple hat and embroidered deel stood out next to the traditional garb of the others on the dais, but given he had been Chancellor a number of years it was tactfully ignored. Kyoumi looked as silent as a doll, and with the elaborate hair, make up and the jade ornaments she wore, just as untouchable. It hard for Harun to reconcile what he saw too what he knew of Kyoumi. This was the same woman who had made kites for them as children? That had run into the ocean with them to swim at those summers on the shore? But behind them all was another presence, hidden by the golden screen and with a light behind him so that he was shown as a silhouette: the Emperor himself, Iweko II. It had been a number of years since the Emperor had permitted others to see him in the full court, which was not very surprising as Harun knew from the conversations he overheard that the Emperor was of a rather advanced age now. To the extent where the subject of a regency with the underage heir, Prince Kiseki, had been raised more than once, but never taken further. Harun didn’t know the details, but given the heir to the throne was to officially make his gempukku in the spring, perhaps the entire idea had been abandoned. At a signal from behind the screen, Chancellor Ide Meiryo began to speak and the room fell silent. “The Imperial Court is called into session, in the reign of the Son of Heaven, Iweko II in the thirty-fifth year of his reign.” He paused, taking a general glance around the room. “We give thanks to the Crab Clan for hosting as well as wish for the fortunes to guide the words and the choices made by those present towards wisdom.” A few bowed their heads at this. Meiryo continued. "The court has gathered at a particular critical juncture for the Emerald Empire. The Seals to Jigoku have been closed, and the Imperial Legions and the Great Clans have claimed back the city of Toshi Ranbo. The forces of the Onyx have been routed. It is a new age." The Chancellor turned and gave a bow to large man wearing the robes of a monk. He was powerfully built but covered with the fine wrinkles of advanced age, his head shaven. Still there was a timelessness about his features. The man stood inconspicuously to one side, but when the court saw the Chancellor bow to him, they gasped. For Harun, recognition dawned slowly. The Man was Hida Kozan, Voice of the Emperor, now without makeup or finery. Kozan returned the bow in silence. The Chancellor straightened and continued. "A new age requires new voices to guide us all towards the future. The Son of Heaven appoints Kakita Kyoumi, daughter of Kakita Yoshirou of the line of Kakita Masarugi, as the new Voice of the Emperor. May the Fortunes and traditions of her ancestors guide her and grant her wisdom.” Everyone in the room bowed low and formally. Kyoumi herself seemed apart from all this, almost immune. Yet she gave one movement, glancing sideways to just behind the screen where the Emperor was. “It is a new age; Chancellor Ide Meiryo-sama speaks wisdom.” Kyoumi said, her voice clear and her eyes fixed ahead. "A new age grown from toil and suffering and loss. Grown from an age that must never be forgotten. This new age must focus on vigilance and diligence, that the evils of the past may never reoccur." With that she looked towards the Crab Clan Champion. "But this is an age of rebuilding. Of recreating ourselves and our world into an Empire that can know peace, can know beauty, can know prosperity for all the citizens of the Empire. And for rebuilding, we must turn to our our artists, artisans and poets to create such a new age. This winter, the Imperial Court will host the Turquoise Championship. We not only hope that the Turquoise Champion foster a return towards beauty and the art, but may the contest itself inspire the Emerald Empire to do likewise for years to come.” With a slight bow, Kyoumi then takes her place on the dais. The Chancellor began calling forward the clan delegates by name to present their gifts to the Emperor. This went on for sometime, and Harun wasn’t the only one to lose interest. He looked around at the other guests. He could see all of the Great Clan Champions, present but slightly apart from the actual proceedings. The only one Harun didn’t see was the Scorpion Clan Champion, Bayushi Kayano, but with that many people it was easy to miss people. People up in turn to present their gifts, eventually the Phoenix Clan had their turn. The ambassador, Isawa Koyo, coming to present his gift: a small tree seedling from his home village. Harun hadn’t met him, but he knew that Koyo had been at Toshi Ranbo. Had in fact led a contingent of shugenja and they had summoned a massive wave and earthquake down one of the walls at Toshi Ranbo which had been critical to securing city. Apparently, Koyo was tipped to be the next Master of Earth. But with the Elemental Council formally disbanded and the Phoenix Champion not being seen in many years, it was anyone’s guess what would happen. After the Unicorn Clan had presented their gifts, it was the turn of the Imperial Legion guests. When Harun’s name was called, the court fell to total silence. Harun went forward holding his gift in his hands. His own sashimono, the small rectangular banner he wore attacked to his armour in battle. Emerald green in colour, with the mons of the First Imperial Legion and Takano Unit “Tenno, this one is Kakita Harun, son of Kakita Karasu of the line of Kakita Masarugi. This one served in the Imperial Legions at Toshi Ranbo; fighting in your name, slaying your enemies and leading men who had sworn to do the same. Many died fighting in your name at Toshi Ranbo, it was the will of the Fortunes that this one was not among them. It is to honour those who have fallen that this one gives to you the banner carried into battle.” He bowed low, offering the gift. When it was taken, he retreated back to the crowd. The other Legion guests looked pleased at Harun’s gift, but it wasn’t just for them Harun had done this. He knew that this would be seen in a different light by others, especially those among the Crane Clan. And his father. I don’t want to get involved with these games, he thought, but I can at least send them a message.
Once the court was over for the day, it was a relief for Harun to be out in the open air. He had intended to find somewhere quiet where he could think clearly, but he wasn’t to have that luxury. A woman approached him, in her forties perhaps, and by the elaborate attire she wore in the colours of the Crab Clan, a Yasuki. My father Nakura’s family, Harun thought with a smile. “Forgive me,” she said, bowing. “But are you Kakita Harun-Chui, son of Kakita Karasu?” “Yes, I am,” Harun said, returning her bow. “Is there anything I may assist you with, Yasuki-san?” “My apologies, Kakita-chui, but…I believe I am your aunt,” said the woman. “I am Yasuki Momoibura, your birth father, Yasuki Nakura-no-shryo, was my brother.” Harun’s voice caught in his throat for a moment. “I…I am most pleased to meet you, Yasuki-san,” said Harun, giving her a genuine smile. “Or should I say…aunt?” “You may,” Momoibura said with a smile. “My mother Yamada, she left me a letter she wrote before I was adopted,” said Harun. “It mentioned you and…a brother of my father’s?” “Soyokaze-no-shryo,” said Momoibura. “He…has passed to Yomi these ten years, but I am sure his children…your cousins will want to meet once I have told them I have claimed kin with you, Kakita-chui.” “More family?” Harun asked, a little stunned. “Yes, may I ask you to tea? Tomorrow perhaps?” Momoibura asked. Your mother Yamada wrote to me as well and it was her wish for you to know of your Yasuki heritage.” “Of course, after the Crab petition to the court,” said Harun. “And if we are family, perhaps you best call me Harun.” “It is agreed then,” said Momoibura with a nod. “Perhaps…you could attend the petition as well and stand with us? Your actions at Toshi Ranbo have made a name for yourself among the Crab, Harun, even if it is not recognised by all.” “I will,” Harun promised. Wondering what she meant by this.
The next day, Harun was with the Crab when their petition was put forward to the Imperial Court, and he was made welcome among them. The Yasuki Daimyo, Yasuki Kagami welcomed him, but it was not he who put forward the Crab petition, but the Champion of the Crab Clan himself, Hida Katashu. Hida Katashi was tall and broad-shouldered, by both Rokugani and by Crab standards. When he started to speak, his voice was low and clear. He at first thanked the Emperor the Chosen and the Great Clans for gracing the halls of his ancestors, especially in light of the recent past which had been the “greatest trial the Clan of Hida had ever faced.” “The Crab wish to inform the court that those who similarly have stood strong against the forces of darkness will be honoured as the Crab honour their own for the same. We wish to offer those of the Imperial Legions to make an oath of fealty to swear their swords to the Crab Clan.” He looked at the small piece of paper in his hand and read out a list of names, this included Katsura Hisato and Koharu. And this caused a small reaction not just from the Legion guests, but from the other clans. When this died down, Tetsuyori continued. “The Crab also wish to offer the highest honour for the ones we see stood strongest of all, who did not hesitate to do what was necessary to take down the enemies of Rokugan.” There was another reaction to this, quickly falling to silence as he read out more names. Most of them were from the Crab Clan, Harun drifted off a little but his attention returned when Tetsuyori read some names that were clearly from other Great Clans. “…Mirumoto Tsushino of the Dragon Clan, Yoritomo Sano of the Mantis Clan, Isawa Koyo of the Phoenix Clan and Kakita Harun of the Crane Clan.” There was an audible gasp at this, especially from the Crane delegation for whom some could not contain their disdain. The Crab among Harun were pleased and congratulated him, but Harun himself felt a little numb. This was the highest honour the Crab could give a samurai, rarely given to those who still lived let alone those who were not Crab themselves. It felt right, it felt good to be finally recognised. And…it wasn’t as if he was not part Crab himself. Harun looked over to the other clan delegations where there was similar scenes, except for the Phoenix where any reaction had died down quickly due to Isawa Koyo himself not reacting at all.
Kakita Karasu was also in the main court when Harun’s name and the honour he was being given was read out. He noticed Harun among the clans, standing still, silent as the Crab congratulated him. Harun showed no emotion, but Karasu knew better. He knew that this was what Harun had wanted all along. From the Kakita, from the Crane Clan and most of all from Karasu himself. Well, he’s not going to get that, Karasu thought with a frown. And he still doesn’t know what he has done wrong. Karasu wanted to go over to him, impress again on Harun of the grievous mistake he had made in killing Shimekiri how he had. But he also knew, the more he pressed Harun, the further Harun would be from him. Hopefully, hopefully, Harun will see it for himself…before it is too late…
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Sept 7, 2018 13:27:36 GMT 10
After the court was done for the day, Harun quickly went back to his quarters. He opened the chest his mother Yamada gave him and took out a silk bag. He held in his hands for a few moments, unsure whether to give it away. It felt right, but if he gave this away he had only had one… He took it with him, heading down where to where the Crab who had travelled to Kyuden Hida were lodged. Harun’s arrival caused more than a little attention from the Crab bushi. He had after all been one of the ones to be honoured at Koten later that winter, word had gotten around. So quite a few approached Harun, commending him and of course asking questions. These came thick and fast until Harun was unable them all. He asked where he might find Yasuki Momoibura and then excused himself. He gently tapped at a door which was opened by a young girl with…familiar eyes. “You are…Kakita Harun-chui?” she asked. Harun nodded. The girl made a bow. “My name is Yasuki Mimiko, would you please come in?” Harun made a slight bow and followed her inside. She led him down a dark stone corridor to a room where half the small space was taken up by a shoji screen that seemed to be covering…what looked to be a large pile of clothes wrapped up in bundles. In front of the screen, were cushions, a tea set and a brazier where Momoibura was instructing another girl in the way making tea. She gave a bow. “Harun, welcome, please sit,” she says. “You have met Mimiko-chan, this is my eldest Ayame.” Ayame bowed. “A pleasure to meet you, Kakita-chui.” Her sister Mimiko sat next to her. “The pleasure is mine,” said Harun, bowing. And taking a seat “To know that I have family and to feel welcome among them is truly a blessing. But first…” He reaches beside him for the silk bag. “I wish to give you this…small token. It means a lot to me that it has returned to these lands.” Harun knew he could claim both Crab and Unicorn blood as his own, but growing up with the Crane he of course knew how to properly present a gift. He held it in both hands towards it. “After I made my gempukku, I received some items from my mother Yamada that she had given to my adoptive father,” he said. “This was among them.” With one hand he removed the silk bag to reveal…his father’s shamisen. The girls stared at it, Momoibura gave a soft gasp. “Is that?” Momoibura asked. Harun gave a slight nod. “I give this to you, so it may again make music in the lands from which it came.” “I cannot accept this,” Momoibura said tightly, blinking. “It yours, well and truly. It is your hands that should play it, Harun.” “My hands, I must confess, are not able for this,” admitted Harun. “Though this was not for the lack of trying at the Kakita Academy. It would be far more of a joy to hear it played by someone capable.” “But…you have so little to remember your father,” objected Momoibura. “Us who knew Nakura-no-shryo do have memories, giving away his shamisen is giving away one of the few pieces you have.” “Your memories are far more precious gift that I hope I can share in,” said Harun. “And if you accept, I will consider this…how do the Yasuki put it?...a fair trade.” Momoibura smiled. “I accept,” she said. “And I think there is more Yasuki in you than you realise.” Ayame served the tea. “So, tell me, Harun,” said Momoibura. “What do you know of your father?” Can I tell them about the ritual? How will they take it? Harun decided to start small. “Very little, I am afraid,” he said. “My mother Yamada, she wrote me a little about him in the letter she left for me…she told me about you and your brother as well. It said that he was a merchant, travelled extensively and knew the secrets of Friendly Traveller Sake.” “Yes, those and other secrets,” said Momoibura with a nod. “You mean…Yoritomo Aramasu’s ashes?” Harun asked. “I understand this was why he was challenged to the duel.” “Yes, that is true,” said Momoibura, her face tightening a little. “I heard from your mother directly about…what happened that day. He showed courage that I did not know he possessed.” “I have heard the same,” said Harun, he drank from his teacup and put it down. He had to tell them. “I…I am not sure if this will seem strange to you…but I was fortunate enough to know my father better than…I ever thought possible.” “What do you mean?” Momoibura asked. “A year ago, I was at Shiro Moto, the Jade Magistrate and Sodan Senzo Akodo Zetsubou-no-shryo was there to cleanse the lands of the taint,” said Harun. “The Blessed Ancestors from Yomi were called to assist and…” Harun hesitated. “…my father’s spirit was the first to come.” “You…saw his shryo?” Momoibura asked, her voice hushed. Harun nodded. “He practically ran out to see me, and we spoke.” “You are most fortunate, Harun, to have that happen,” said Momoibura, blinking again. “May I ask…what he said?” “We only spoke briefly, but each word we shared was a treasure I never knew I would possess,” said Harun. “He….my father…he told me he was proud of me, and that I had more honour in me than I had in his life.” “Then I would not doubt his word,” said Momoibura loyally. They spoke of other things for a time. Momoibura asked Harun about his childhood and the Legion, she in turn told him about Nakura as well as Harun’s other cousins from her brother Soyokaze who had died defending the wall about five years ago. Eventually, Ayame picked up the shamisen and started to tune it. “Ayame-chan,” Momoibura gently chastised. “No, I would like to hear it,” said Harun. “It must be years since anyone has played it.” After she tuned it, Ayame played a soft, gentle tune. Pleasant, peaceful, joyful. And while Harun knew that the last fingers that had played those strings were his father’s, he could not help let his mind wander. Back to the Kakita Academy, the gardens in spring where a young girl with white hair played beneath the sakura tree.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Sept 18, 2018 10:09:47 GMT 10
Been a while since the last update but I should have some coming soon.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Sept 19, 2018 21:27:10 GMT 10
For the first time since his arrival at Kyuden Hida, Harun entered the castle dojo. And just like everywhere else he had been, Harun’s very appearance caused a sensation. People stared, people whispered to each other. Some with approval and some with suspicion. The attention still irritated Harun, but he was beginning to get used to it. He just acknowledged their stares with a nod and found an empty corner to train in. But he wasn’t to be alone for long. Harun was just going through basic katas when a Crab bushi approached him. He looked barely older than Harun. “Kakita-chui?” Harun stopped and looked at him. “Yes?” “I bring a request from Hida Nasu-sama,” he said, gesturing to where some more Crab bushi were gathered. “He asks that he might spar with you.” Harun frowned, looking back over to where the Crab were. Hida Nasu…he was sure that was the Crab Champion’s son. I guess it wouldn’t hurt, he thought. “Tell Hida Nasu-sama that I accept his invitation and will be over directly,” said Harun. The Crab bowed and ran back. Harun quickly went through a few exercises, making sure he was ready before following him. Again, Harun caused a stir. The Crane and Dragon who were training together stopping to stare. Harun ignored them. The Crab were sparring with each other, it looked rough but there was control there. Each knowing exactly how hard to hit. And this was critical, an injury in the dojo could mean one less man on the wall. At Harun’s approach, the tallest of them held up a hand and they all fell still. Harun bowed, as was appropriate to the son of a Clan Champion, but Nasu’s bow was deeper. “Kakita-chui,” said Nasu. He was a few years older than Harun, and while Harun had always been tall but Nasu stood a head taller. “Your reputation precedes you.” “Hida-sama,” said Harun. “I accept your request, though now I have seen your form, I would wager you favour fire over air.” Nasu laughed. “If I could kill Jigoku spawn as you did, then my duty would be easier.” “Perhaps,” replied Harun with a shrug. “Fortunes favoured me that day, next time I may not be so lucky.” “Why so modest, Kakita-chui?” Nasu asked. “Not even my own father can claim fame to killing an Onyx general as you have.” “Well…” Harun looked over their heads at the Crane and Dragon who were watching. “There is that, I just saw an enemy I could kill and act accordingly.” Nasu nodded in agreement. “Some would say you talk like a Crab, Kakita-Chui.” Harun shrugged. “Well, if it means acknowledgment of the lives I saved by acting as I did…then I’ll wear it.” Nasu laughed, the rest of the Crab joining in with him. Harun joined with them, even when he saw the Crane and Dragon leaving the dojo. “I think I am going to like you, Kakita-chui,” Nasu said. “But not as much as I’ll enjoy you seeing you flat on the dojo floor here.” “I’d like to see you try,” said Harun with a grin. They picked up practice swords and began to circle each other. “How many duels have you had?” Nasu asked. “Three.” “And won?” “Three. You?” “One,” answered Nasu. “That last one was Shimekiri, right?” Harun nodded, they continued to circle. “I heard the Crane call him the finest duellist since Kakita,” said Nasu. “What does that make you then?” “The man who killed him,” Harun replied. “Lets see some of that form now, then,” said Nasu. They came at each other with their bokkens, Nasu’s attack was strong and Harun was doing his best to stay out of his way. Find an opening, find an opening, Harun said to himself. He twisted out of the way of one of Nasu’s blows, it narrowly grazing him, then came up behind the Hida and giving him a gentle touch. “My point,” said Harun, grinning a little. “Not bad, there Kakita,” said Nasu, acknowledging Harun’s victory. “But you and I both know a little spar in the dojo is nothing compared to a real fight against the enemy.” “Give me ten good men, and I’ll show you a real fight,” said Harun. “I’m not one of your sheltered, fragile Cranes that traipses from court to court. “He fingered the scars on his face where his beard hadn’t grown back. “These aren’t from duels.” Nasu looked back at him with some admiration. “Seeing war for what it is, if the other clans see that, then perhaps something good came out of this war.” Harun shrugged. “If only.”
Back where the Legion guests were quartered, there was a little activity. They were standing outside the rooms, Koharu was talking to the others. In her hands was a white box. She went to Harun as he approached. “These have just come, Harun,” she said. “Yours should be in your room.” “What is it?” Harun asked. “A gift?” Koharu nodded, she opened her box. “Daifuku,” she said, putting one in her mouth. “It’s…very good,” she managed to say through a mouthful. Harun went to his room, there was no box waiting for him and try as he might he could not find one. Daifuku… He went to the doorway, and it hit him. On those boxes was the mon of the Imperial Treasurer, Doji Arami. He knew it, as it had been on other boxes that contained daifuku when Harun was growing up, often coming when Arami himself visited… Harun sat back down on his bed, burning with anger. It didn’t matter at all that there was no box for him, to think so was stupid and childish. And it certainly didn’t matter that there was one for all of the Imperial Legions guests except for him. It didn’t matter, at all. Because none of them mattered, and he would show them one way or another.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Sept 25, 2018 0:21:39 GMT 10
Harun was troubled by dreams again that night. This time he was back at Toshi Ranbo, back on the ship heading into the city. He could hear the thunk, thunk, thunk of the bodies hitting the hull. These got louder and more frequent. Then he heard the voices, the shouting and the moaning of the dead. They then started to climb up the sides, swarming onto the deck as a mass. Their sinewy, wet arms, their soulless black eyes. They seemed, unstoppable, no matter what they did, no matter what they threw at them. Harun felt himself taken up by them, his arms pinned to his sides by the mass of stinking, thrashing bodies. He was pulled over the side of the ship and down into the black water below… Harun sat up in his bed, cold with sweat, gasping for air, gasping for air. This was not the first nightmare he had had since Toshi Ranbo, but it was the first since he had come to Kyuden Hida. It was perhaps fortunate that the thick stone walls were as good as keeping horrors in as out. The narrow slit window showed the cold, grey light of morning. Within minutes, Harun was awake and dressing, hoping a walk would clear the cobwebs from his head. The castle was quiet this early, but not silent. The servants were of course awake, as well as early rising bushi on their way to the dojo. Harun almost went there himself, but then turned away at the last minute. He had overheard someone talk about the secret tunnels out of the castle, of which there were a few in case of evacuation. One apparently went right through the cliff and ended on the beach below. So, he decided to find it.
Harun headed down deeper into the castle, heading down several stairs. But it seemed impossible to find, in the end he had to ask a guard on duty where to find it. The door was heavy and they had no problem letting him through. Behind the door the tunnel was steep, stairs cut into the rock, Harun’s footsteps echoed loudly as he walked down. Then he heard it, the soft sighs of the sea. He smelled the smell of salt and his pace quickened. He emerged from behind a boulder onto a shingled beach. In front of him stretched Earthquake Fish Bay, the winter wind whipping up the waves into white peaks. Harun removed his socks and sandals and stood in the water, it was cold but it was good. He stood there for a while, letting the wind play with his hair and enjoying the feel of the salt spray. So quiet, so peaceful…is that somebody crying? Harun looked up the beach, he could see what looked like a young girl sitting on the beach. Brown clothing, red hair. Can it be? Harun walked towards the girl, spraying water as he walked which wet his hakama, but he didn’t care. Was it her? As he neared she seemed to calm, sitting quietly watching the waves. The girl blinked at him in amazement. “Harun?” Harun smiled. “Koneko, it is so good to see you. I’m sorry, I had to come when I saw you…but I can go away if you prefer.” “No, no,” said Koneko, her cheeks colouring slightly. She wiped her face with her sleeve then stood up and bowed. “I…thought I was alone, you just surprised me.” Harun smiled at her reassuringly. He had met Akodo Koneko a year previously when he had come with the Ishiken Moto Majid to her father Zetsubou’s house in the middle of the night. She was…about thirteen now, perhaps. And had always been warm towards Harun, drawn in a way sheltered young girls were to confident young men. “How is your family?” Harun asked. “They are well,” said Koneko, beginning to recover. “My brother Kibo began his training in the dojo in the spring, he swears he will be wielding real steel by next summer.” Harun laughed. “My cousin Miraiko is here, at Kyuden Hida with mother,” continues Koneko. “She was…not happy about missing Toshi Ranbo.” Harun nods. “I spoke with her husband Hanamasu before the battle, he said much the same to me,” he said. “How are you faring in your studies?” “Adequately, I suppose,” said Koneko, she looked uncomfortable. Harun looked out to sea, giving her the space if she wished to confide in him. “I have…” Koneko blinked away tears. “I have found it difficult without father.” She shuddered, as if confessing a weakness. “Your father was one of the best men I knew,” said Harun. “He gave himself completely to everything he did. The fact you miss him speaks very highly of him.” Koneko nodded. “I know, it is just…have you ever wondered if the path you have been set on is the right one?” “Yes, more than once,” said Harun. “And what did you do?” Koneko asked. “I found the right path,” said Harun. “Or…tried to.” Koneko looked at him. “What do you mean?” Harun shook his head. “Nothing.” He did not wish to burden her. “No,” Koneko insisted. “I shared a confidence, now it is your turn.” Harun smiled. “I guess it is only fair.” He sat down on the pebble beach and invited her to sit next to him. “I’m not sure if you know, but at the ritual where…where your father died…he called many shryo to aid.” Harun picked up a pebble and examined it in his hands. “One of those was Hikahime-no-Fortune, the other was my own father.” “Your father…?” Koneko considered. “Wait…this was the man who was married to your mother Yamada?” Harun nodded. “Well, they spoke to me before they departed. Told me I could not stay in Unicorn lands. That I would join the Legion and…” He let the stone fly from his fingers. “…take Toshi Ranbo.” “A…a prophecy?” Koneko asked. “Of a sort,” said Harun. “That more or less resolved me to return, such a thing cannot be ignored.” “Quite,” agreed Koneko. “But since then, I have been wondering…did they know of this? If they did, how much? And why didn’t they tell me more?” He looked down at the ocean again. “I thought I saw a way forward, at least then. But did they see the real path?” “They may have,” Koneko says. “But telling you more could have prevented what needed to happen.” “What do you mean?” Harun asked. “Well, what you did to Shimekiri,” said Koneko. “I heard Uncle Kibo and Miraiko arguing about it,” she added quickly. “Had you known what you had to do, you may have acted differently. Had a different destiny, taken a different path. You may have been told exactly what you needed to know to set you on the path you needed to be on.” Harun smiled. “That sounds very wise, Koneko.” “It does,” she agreed, looking up at him. “I should probably listen to it myself.”
They later walked up the tunnel together back into the castle. When they got to the door, Koneko stopped. “Harun, I…I wish to ask you of something,” she said, starting to blush again. “Anything to help,” said Harun agreeably. “I know mother wishes to see you, will you call upon her where the Lion Clan are quartered?” Koneko asked. “Miraiko is in charge and probably has prevented such things, but mother wont refuse if you come yourself.” “I will,” promised Harun. She blushed again, quickly excusing herself and going back inside. So young, so innocent, Harun thought, so good that she has not changed…
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Sept 26, 2018 0:55:11 GMT 10
The Crab Clan hosted the official banquet that night. In the past, the Imperial Court would have held multiple banquets, but this had long gone out of favour in times of famine and war. The largest of the barracks was given over to the occasion, the rather tasteful decorations suggested there was another hand at work. Harun entered with the Legion guests, a few of them looking to Harun for cues. What he noticed was the people who were not there. The Emperor and Empress were not, nor were they expected to be, but he did not see Kyoumi or Kousuda either. His father Karasu was there though, and next to him Doji Arami. Harun quickly paid his respects, if he had words to say to Arami and his father he chose not to say them. He was intending to sit with the others from the Legion, but Hida Nasu, who sat on his father’s right, indicated Harun should sit on his left. There was no real way to refuse such an invitation, so with a depreciating look at Koharu, Harun went to sit with the Crab Champion’s son. Karasu watched this with interest from where he sat. He didn’t like it, but there was nothing to be done about it and it was logical given how the Crab wished to honour Harun. And it followed from there that Harun would feel drawn to them. But he still didn’t like it. Several musicians who were vying for the Turquoise Championship entertained the group with an eclectic selection of music. The food and drink began to be served. The individual tastes of the different clans were considered, but the majority was the greasy, fried fare that the Crab usually favoured. Karasu didn’t mind, in his years living out of a tent on campaign one could not afford to be picky, but it amused him to see Arami picking at it with some suspicion. Harun seemed to be enjoying himself far more, Karasu noticed, speaking not just with the Champion’s son but the Champion himself. As the evening went on and the drink began to flow a little more freely, the occasion got more informal and people began to move around a lot more. Karasu saw Hida Nasu introduce Harun to a girl he said was his cousin. Karasu frowned. They have plans, all right, he thought, taking what they can and who from the rest of us. He said this to Arami later when they were going back to their quarters. “I am sure there are those among us who would resist such assimilation,” said Arami smoothly. “But for some, perhaps it could be seen as desirable.” Karasu stared at him, of course Arami was talking about Harun. “Of course, not all infractions are seen as they are deserved to be,” continued Arami. “There are those who see them as…virtues.” He threw out the word with disgust, as if it tasted bad. This was a step too far for Karasu. He led Arami onto one of the balconies so they could talk privately. “Arami,” he said. “We have known each other for many years so I trust you know to keep such remarks to yourself.” “I can only call the tune as I hear it,” said Arami flatly. “Then I trust you to at least not repeat them,” said Karasu, an edge entering his voice. “But I am not wrong,” said Arami. He turned to face Karasu directly. “It has been nearly a month since…this outrage, and you have not acted as you should. People are beginning to wonder…and to doubt.” “Then they are wrong,” said Karasu firmly. “I have acted, and accordingly to fit Harun’s transgressions. He has been removed from command, and he will no longer permitted to continue his training at the Kakita Academy.” “And yet here he is!” Arami rebuked, extending a hand out as if presenting to an audience. “Granted a rare honour before the entire Imperial Court for a disgrace that should at the very least had him making the three cuts. Which had he rectitude to do of his own accord, would have spared this disgrace.” His glare to Karasu was icy cold. “The fact he did not may speak of the virtues he has…and those he was raised with.” Karasu’s gaze was fire to Arami’s ice. “We may be friends, Arami, but you would do well to tread carefully. Especially on issues which you have no right at all to question.” “I have the right of every Crane which loathes to see the sacred traditions of my ancestors brought into disrepute,” said Arami. “Were he my son—” “But he is not, nor will he ever be!” Karasu interrupted, his face reddening with anger. “I am his father, I know just how far to push him. To do more I may lose him forever.” “That does not sound completely unpleasant,” said Arami smoothly. “If your son wishes to ingratiate himself with the Crab Clan, then let him join them. Arranging this should be the least of your duties as his father.” He left then, leaving Karasu to contemplate this. The cold air seemed to dull the hot words in Karasu’s heart. He had seen Harun around the last few days, and had heard reports. Still, he felt like he didn’t know his own son. Harun’s stubbornness, his indifference, his refusal to see how badly he had erred. Perhaps, Arami is right, thought Karasu. When he got back to his room, Karasu immediately went to the desk and began to write. When it was done, he bade a servant to deliver it in the morning. To Doji Nashikyo, the nakodo that was among the Crane party. Harun was an adult now, and with the war ending there could be no delaying the duty Karasu had as his father. And Karasu had no doubt the Crane would welcome such a solution.
Several days after the banquet, the Lion Clan presented their petition to the Imperial Court. This was more a report on the cleansing of the taint from the lands, but it was also to honour Akodo Zetsubou’s sacrifice. Zetsubou’s widow, Akodo Nikako, played a leading role in the petition. She spoke modestly of Zetsubou’s life and character, adding that the site of his death in Unicorn lands had become a place of pilgrimage for the Lion Clan. Harun stood with them as it was presented, feeling a little out of place and quite conscious of Akodo Miraiko’s glares directed at him. He had been at first reluctant to even turn up today, let alone stand with the delegation and speak, but his tea with Nikako had convinced him. “You are the only one who witnessed it…save Majid who was unable to come,” she had said. “My husband’s story needs to be told, and you are the best to help with that.” The petition was already well-received by the court even before Harun spoke, his words only added to it. He said his piece as faithfully an honestly as he should, even earning some admiring looks from the Crane clan as they listened. On the dais, Kyoumi seemed to be listening to words spoken from behind the screen. Then she came forward to speak. “The Son of Heaven acknowledges the petition regarding Akodo Zetsubou-no-shryo,” she said, her voice a clear monotone as it always was when she spoke as the Voice of the Emperor. “When Heaven reveals more of its will on this, it will be known to all.” Afterwards, when they were outside and the court had been dismissed for the day, Miraiko approached Harun. “Kakita-chui, I…wish to show my thanks for your help in this,” she said. “This was a duty performed gladly, Akodo-san, and I am thankful to have been of help,” said Harun, bowing. The Lion woman gave a tight smile. “My husband spoke to me how you met before Toshi Ranbo,” she said. “That we did, and while we did not fight together, I know he fought bravely,” said Harun. “I trust your family is well?” “Yes, they are,” said Miraiko shortly, with a nod. Harun nodded in return, clearly Miraiko wanted to be rid of him despite how she felt. So, he went to take his leave. “No, please.” Miraiko waved him back, removing something from her clothing. “My father bade me give you this.” “Give him my thanks,” said Harun, bowing and accepting the letter. “If it is not too much trouble, you could convey my reply to him?” “Yes, of course,” said Miraiko absently. She went back over to where the rest of her family was, Harun lingered no further and went back to his room. He quickly changed out of his court clothes, putting the letter away to read later on after he had a dojo session. But there was another letter waiting for him. It carried the seal of the Crane on it, and next to it a tiny green vase with a sprig of pine and a snowdrop. Harun quickly opened the letter.
To the Honourable Kakita Harun, son of Kakita Karasu-no-kimi, Chui of the Imperial Legions,
Greetings,
Spring follows winter as a Ground lies fallow after battle. Seeds grow in the silence.
Would it be agreeable for you to call upon me tomorrow afternoon? Your father has suggested that it would be opportune if we were to meet over tea.
Doji Nashikyo
The words so innocent, devoid of meaning just on paper, but they had the effect of a chill entering Harun’s heart. He sat down, his legs buckling from the shock of what he knew the letter meant. Doji Nashikyo was of course the nakodo who was at court with the Crane delegation. A request to meet her would mean only one thing. Marriage. Harun felt nervous.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Sept 27, 2018 23:52:05 GMT 10
The next afternoon, Harun dressed carefully. Everyday he had been at Kyuden Hida he was scrutinised, but seeing the nakodo he knew this would be like nothing else he had experienced. Everything about him would be examined. Would it be enough? Would the gift he had obtained be seen worthy? He took it out and looked at it again. It was a painting, in the traditional Crane style, showing the return of the Unicorn to Rokugan. The Crane, they have already judged me, thought Harun angrily as he rolled the painting back up, and this is probably how they plan to be rid of me. He closed his hand into a fist. If they wish to know me, then let them know me…
Harun made his way through the castle to where the Crane were quartered. A servant told him the right room, but the sound of his name made him stop in the doorway. He turned around and saw who is was. A girl of about ten years old wearing delicate grey silks with white hair in braids. The daughter of Haihime and Daigotsu Kanpeki’s granddaughter. “Isanko-chan,” said Harun with a smile. He made a bow. “I was beginning to wonder when I would see you.” “You could have asked,” she said, grinning. “Is it true they call you the gaijin Crane?” That name, given to him by Shimekiri, had followed Harun from Toshi Ranbo. It was no surprise that it was being repeated here. “I am called many things,” said Harun good naturedly. He looked past Isanko to see two men coming closer. Of course, this was her father Doji Sorei and her protector the ronin Kumo. “You are quite famous now,” said Isanko. “And important.” “Well, one day you could be,” Harun suggested. He bowed as Doji Sorei went to stand behind his daughter. “Doji-sama, a pleasure to see you and your daughter are well.” “Likewise,” said Sorei cordially. “I trust your wife, the Lady Haihime, is also well?” Harun asked, ignoring Sorei’s aloofness. “My wife does as she always has,” said Sorei, he put a protective hand on his daughter. “I do hope you excuse us,Kakita-chui we have a prior engagement and cannot dally here.” Harun made another bow. “Of course.” “Please come to see us,” Isanko said earnestly. Harun looked over at Sorei’s impassive face. The Doji seemed reluctant, but not overly so. “I’ll do my best,” he promised. As Sorei conducted his daughter away, the ronin Kumo turned slightly. What happened next was not what Harun expected. The ronin bowed. “Kakita-chui,” he said, then turning to walk back with his charges. Harun stared at him. Just what was this ronin’s game? And who was he?
The room where Doji Nashikyo received him made Harun feel as if he had left Kyuden Hida and was at the estate of some notable in Crane lands. One of the stone walls was covered with a tapestry, from the other hung a scroll painted with flowers and birds. A table was in front of the scroll with cushions around it, an arrangement of irises and bamboo in the centre in a vase. Harun made a bow. “Thank you for inviting me, Doji-sama,” he said. He presented gift for the appropriate offerings and refusals and then was invited to sit. Nashikyo sat across from him pouring tea. Harun guessed she was about middle aged, been in the trade for a number of years. Her kimono and its various accents were up to the latest fashion, her hair and make up in the understated style that many older Crane women seemed to favour. “I suppose…” Harun said. “I am not the first to meet you in this way.” “Nor are you the last, Kakita-chui,” Nashikyo said. “When the snow lies deep in the winter, no one knows how many new shoots will rise when it thaws.” Harun sipped his tea, his face perfectly bland. If Nashikyo wished to know him, then let her make the effort. “This is your first time attending the Imperial Court, is it not?” Nashikyo asked, offering him a wagashi cake which were shaped like little flower buds. “Yes,” answered Harun, accepting a cake. “And yet,” remarked Nashikyo, “I have not seen you at many of the events. The Winding Water Banquet, for instance, is quite the chance to make the acquaintance of many at court.” Harun took a sip of his tea, placing his cup back carefully. “Given the current…mood around my actions at Toshi Ranbo, I thought it…prudent to avoid such an event,” he said. “From what I understand about the…nature of the banquet, the sake tends to loosen tongues. I wish to…avoid such embarrassment.” “But you did choose to distinguish yourself just yesterday before the entire Imperial Court,” said Nashikyo. “You spoke quite eloquently too.” “That was a personal obligation,” said Harun. “I was a friend of Zetsubou-no-shryo and I was with him when he died. I owe it to his memory to make sure his sacrifice is known to all.” “So, you value personal obligations quite highly, Kakita-chui?” Nashikyo asked. “Very much,” said Harun. “I suppose even more now since the time I spent with the Legion. You very much depend on the man next to you.” “Does it matter who this man is?” Nashikyo asked. “Only that his sword is not claimed by Jigoku and that he can stand and fight beside,” said Harun. “So, birth, training, tradition…surely these matter more?” Nashikyo pressed. “They matter,” said Harun, his voice hardening. “But forgive me, Doji-sama, you have not fought on the field of battle where all that can save your life is a friendly blade beside you. I have.” Nashikyo poured more tea. “You speak with such experience for one so young, Kakita-chui. You are almost eighteen winters gone?” Harun nodded. “Perhaps I am simply the product of the times I was brought up in. I became what I needed to be.” “There are other paths,” insisted Nashikyo. “Higher ones, ones more worthy.” These words had to come from his father, and may be the reason why Karasu wasn’t there at all. “There are,” agreed Harun, placing his tea cup down. “You chose not to do this,” said Nashikyo. “To break with tradition, may I ask why?” “To save the lives of those who would have died that day,” Harun answered. “That was my purpose.” “But that was not the result,” said Nashikyo. Harun shrugged. “So it seems.” “You may offer seed to the wind, Kakita-chui,” said Nashikyo. “But no matter where it falls, it still must leave your hand.” “But still the seed will sprout,” countered Harun. “Is this not true?” “Not always,” said Nashikyo. She looked at the vase between them. “I enjoy irises, but if I were to plant them on a public road I would not see many blooms.” Harun drank down his tea in one draught, the scalding pain seemed to fit his mood. “I am not gardener, Doji-sama, but I thought iris came from bulbs, not seeds.” “You are right,” the nakodo said coldly. “You are no gardener.” She sipped her tea, her voice took on a different turn. “I know you have been reticent to attend the events of court, Kakita-chui, but I have heard that the art exhibition of the Turquoise Championship contestants will be particularly fine.” “It is?” Harun asked. “Indeed,” said Nashikyo. “If you were to attend, Kakita-chui, you may find it to your advantage.” “I will consider it, Doji-sama,” said Harun.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Sept 30, 2018 0:53:54 GMT 10
Harun immediately went to the dojo after leaving the nakodo, not even bothering to change out of his court clothes. The place was quiet aside from the students, which suited Harun fine. He picked up a bokken and immediately went into the Ten Thousand Days kenjutsu drill, and at a furious pace. Once he was done, he went to it again, and again. And again. Sweat stains started to form under his arms as well as roll down his face, his breathing started to become laboured. But he continued, pushed past the limits of his endurance. The wooden practice sword a blur in front of him. Sweat started to pour down his hands, making the handle slippery. He made another lunge and it slipped from his fingers, falling to the tatami mat. He heard a laugh. “I thought it was supposed to be the other way around.” Harun turned to see Hida Nasu. He bowed. “Hida-sama.” “Kakita-chui.” Nasu bowed in reply. “That was how it went, wasn’t it? The baka dropped his katana, and then you attacked?” “Yes, it was, Hida-sama.” said Harun. “The jade augmented ball entered his shoulder, stopping his first strike. That was the plan. Dropping his katana…that was just luck.” Nasu tilted his head, looking at Harun curiously. “You are an odd one, Kakita-chui,” he said. “I have known bushi who have done less than you, and they never leave you in doubt of their exploits. Something you I haven’t seen you do.” “Perhaps it’s because I don’t need to,” said Harun. “All people have to do is look at me, they know what I have done and they have already made up their minds.” “There is more to it than that, I think,” said Nasu. Harun grinned. “You are more perceptive than I gave you credit for, Hida-sama. To be honest, I have never wanted to distinguish myself for the sake of it, I stood out already.” He held out his hands, emphasising their darker tinge. “People have always stared and whispered, so I wanted to prove that I was more than what they thought of me.” “Well,” said Nasu with a chuckle. “You did that.” “Yes,” agreed Harun. “You know what they’re calling you?” Nasu asked. “The Gaijin Crane.” “I have heard,” said Harun quietly. Nasu took a step closer to him. “Kakita-chui, if you are looking for the Crane to give you what you deserve, you are not going to get it. But there are others who will.” “The Crab?” Harun asked. “Yes,” conceded Nasu. “And others. I know if it came to it, I would be honoured to fight beside you.” “Thank you, Hida-sama,” said Harun. “I’m…not sure what to say.” “You don’t need to say anything, you have done more than enough,” said Nasu. He picked up a bokken, grinning at Harun. “Let’s see if I can have you on the mat this time, neh? And it’s Nasu.”
Harun went back to his room feeling more battered than he had been since he had left Toshi Ranbo. But he felt good. Alive. Exhilarated. But he was looking forward to a hot bath and a quiet evening. Perhaps a few games of Fortunes and Winds with Koharu. But when he arrived back where the Legion guests were quartered, he saw Koharu speaking with a familiar figure. White hair, burn scars on his face, subdued clothing. It was Kumo. Kumo turned and bowed deeply when Harun approached. “Kakita-chui, I had hoped to find you here. I wanted to personally express my appreciation for your handling of that bothersome bird. He was quite the irritating problem.” Harun returned Kumo’s bow. “You mean Shimekiri?” Kumo nodded. Harun had no heard Kumo speak at length before, and there was a quality to the older man’s voice that Harun did not expect of a ronin. A certain polish and fluidity, like silk, almost as if he had training as a courtier. And a confidence, almost an arrogance, as if he was not cowed at all by being a simple ronin in the Imperial Court. “Indeed,” said Kumo. “The methods you used, it shows an incisiveness that I would not expect from someone of your age…or background.” Harun wasn’t sure why Kumo’s smile made him feel uncomfortable, but it did. “There are some who would not agree with your assessment.” “And there are some who would,” countered Kumo. He reached into his clothing and then pulled out a coin. Harun didn’t recognise it but could see it was made of gold. “This but a small token,” said Kumo, offering the coin. “But I promise, it does have quite a story behind it.” “Something such as this clearly has more value to yourself than to me” said Harun coldly. “I cannot accept.” Kumo’s familiarity irritated him. “Its value is what makes it worthy of one such as yourself,” said Kumo, his words flowing like warm honey. “Please, accept with my complements.” “And this is why I loathe to part you from it,” said Harun. “Its value and significance are known to you, not to me.” Kumo gave a dry laugh. “Such knowledge is hardly privileged, Kakita-chui,” he said. “If you were to ask, say your aunt Kakita Kyoumi-sama, I am sure you will discover more. I believe Kakita-sama takes an interest in such things.” Now that threw Harun. What would Kyoumi know of a coin that by all appearances was of gaijin origin? And how did a ronin know that she would? As much as Harun was curious, these were not questions he was prepared to ask Kumo. The only thing then was to accept the gift and hope Kyoumi would be forthcoming with him. “Then I accept, Kumo-san,” Harun said. Kumo placed the coin in Harun’s hand with a bow. “I will take up no more of your time, Kakita-chui,” he said, leaving quickly. Harun examined the coin. He was right, it was gaijin, but more than that he didn’t know. It had strange markings on it Harun couldn’t decipher. “That is what he gave you?” Koharu came out of her room. Harun nodded. “What is it?” she asked. “I’m not sure,” Harun answered.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Oct 1, 2018 23:03:57 GMT 10
Harun knew that going to speak Kyoumi would be easier for him than others, which is probably why the ronin Kumo approached him. But he knew he needed to be careful, as much as he didn’t agree with the Crane Clan’s opinion on him, he didn’t want it to reflect badly on her. Fortunately, the art exhibition made such things easier. The art exhibition was to be held in one of the large courtyard of the castle. Usually this was where Crab bushi trained and drilled, but today scaffolding had been erected to hang the art works on, paintings and tapestries, and stands to display sculpture and ceramic ware. There was work in many different styles from many different artists from all over the empire. And between the paintings were poems on pieces of coloured paper, mostly haiku and tanka but Harun saw at least one Unicorn travel poem. There were also musicians, seated on cushions and chairs with their instruments, spread out strategically so the music would not intermingle. The crowd was getting rather large, Harun was determined to enjoy himself despite the cold looks and raised fans he got from people. But it was also fairly easy to see who was there while also keeping his distance. There was Doji Teruhime, the Crane Champion’s daughter, she was surrounded by a veritable coterie. She didn’t even look in Harun’s direction. He also saw the Mantis Champion, Yoritomo Kagawa in conversation with Isawa Koyo who, judging by his stony face, clearly wished to be elsewhere. But he could not see Kyoumi, not yet anyway. He turned his attention to a painting of green fields and a winding river, the serenity broken by an invading army of Onyx charging in from one side. “Quite the contrast, is it not?” said a voice beside him. Harun turned to see Doji Nashikyo. He didn’t realise before how short she was, coming up to his shoulder. “It is a contrast,” said Harun, bowing. “It is a pleasure to see you again, Doji-sama.” Nashikyo nodded slightly. She had an air of efficiency about her, as it she wished to do her duty to Harun as quickly as possible and be done with it. “Kakita-chui, I was wondering if you could enlighten me about something.” She nodded to a Unicorn sitting on a stool near by playing a stringed instrument with a bow. “Can you tell me the name of that instrument? Surely you know given your background.” Harun frowned, he knew exactly what she meant by his ‘background’. “It is called a morin khuur, Doji-sama,” he said. “It is similar to a shamisen, but I believe horse hair is used for the strings instead of silk.” “Most interesting,” said Nashikyo. “I thank you, Kakita-chui.” In front of the musician was a young woman, she wore a simple kimono and obi in the colours of Crab Clan. She then turned her head and Harun recognised her. That was Nasu’s cousin, the Hiruma Daimyo’s daughter and heir. What was her name? Nasu had introduced them at the banquet. Yosoko, that was it. “The sound is not to everyone’s taste,” continued Nashikyo. “But I suppose it is enjoyed by some.” “Yes, yes it is,” said Harun, still examining Yosoko. So, this is the woman I am going to marry… She was tall, but not taller than he was. Not unattractive, but of course nothing compared to the stunning beauty of Crane women. She was strong, from what Nasu had told him, and knew her way around a sword and bow. Ever since Nashikyo had suggested the art exhibition Harun knew something like this could happen. The tradition of the hidden “first look” the omai, was still maintained among the Crane. Harun had hoped seeing his intended would stir something in him. But when he looked at the woman who had been chosen for him to marry and he felt…nothing for her. But then Nasu’s words came back to him. Among the Crab Harun would have the respect and recognition he would never get for the Crane. The Crab had already shown this with giving him the honour of having his name in their Hall of Ancestors. This was further proof of that, a very illustrious match. Close ties to the Champion’s family. The prospect that one of his own children would one day be Daimyo of a Great Clan family… Perhaps, she improves on further acquaintance, Harun thought. “Tell me, what do you think of the music, Kakita-chui?” Nashikyo asked. “It is…unusual but I find it pleasing,” said Harun. “But did you know the Unicorn usually have a throat singer accompany a morin khuur?” “Oh?” Nashikyo looked at him with interest. “Yes, alone I think the music is good but somewhat wanting,” said Harun. “But together with the khoomei singer…it is a harmony that can stir the heart.” Nashikyo nods. “Quite,” she said. “You must excuse me, Kakita-chui.” Harun bowed. “Of course, Doji-sama.” He turned his attention back to the painting though it swam before his eyes. He had just seen his future before him and all the feeling he could summon was a grudging acceptance. Oh Arahime-chan, how I miss you… “Harun? Is there something wrong?” Akodo Koneko approached him. She had done her hair in a new style, pulled back from her usual braids with waves from her forehead framing her face. “Not with you, Koneko-chan,” Harun said, summoning a smile. “I did not see you after the Lion petition.” “Mother had me watch from the gallery,” she said. “I did try to find you after, but Miraiko said you had gone.” She examined Harun’s face. “Harun…you look sad. If there is something wrong you can tell me. Let me help you as you helped me.” Harun knew he could not lie to her. “I suppose everyone will know soon enough,” said Harun. “The Crane woman I was just speaking to was a nakodo, and she just showed me the woman I would be marrying.” “Marry? Oh.” Koneko’s face fell. Harun nodded. “It is a little hard for me to take as well,” he said. “Somehow I always thought it would all happen differently.” Koneko nodded quickly. “I…I think we all do,” she said. “Harun, could you excuse me? I’m not feeling very well.” She left before Harun could say anything else. Harun blinked. Had he said something to upset her? But before he could think about this further, Kyoumi finally came into view. She was talking to Susumu Shibatsu, the Spider Clan Champion and the Emperor’s brother. He was surprisingly limber for a man of his advancing years. They stopped before a porcelain sculpture on a stand showing a Crab bushi riding a carp. Harun stood a discreet distance away looking something else. Green dragons circling around the rim of a gold vase. Waiting for either of them to walk away. Then, not twenty steps away he saw someone else. Crown Prince Kiseki, looking a great deal more mature than when Harun had seen him at Shiro sano Kakita last year. And accompanying him, in the impassive stance of a yojimbo, was Harun’s father Karasu. For what seemed like an age, Karasu and Harun locked eyes. Neither of them made any sign to each other, or attempted to say any words. They had not spoken since Otosan Uchi. Harun expected to see coldness from his father, but that was not what he saw. He saw sadness, disappointment. The moment passed, the both averted their eyes. The prince was now speaking to a Crane girl, and behind her appeared to be her mother. Harun stared. This meeting was staged and cannot be a coincidence, he thought, but…isn’t he supposed to marry Isanko? What does this mean now? Shibatsu bowed and walked away. Harun quickly approached Kyoumi, standing opposite her with the sculpture between them. “Oba-sama,” he said, making a bow. Kyoumi gave him a brief nod, but as the Voice of the Emperor there was little she could do to acknowledge Harun in public. Harun decided to be as brief as he could. “I was given this, I was told you would know more about it.” Harun handed her the coin. Kyoumi examined the coin. She was very still. “Where did you get this?” “It was given to me, by—” “No,” Kyoumi interrupted, she secreted the coin inside one of her sleeves and raised her fan. “You need to bring to me the one who gave it to you.” “You know more about this?” Harun asked. “Later,” she said softly, signalling with her fan that Harun should go. Harun left her, a million questions circling his mind. Kumo was right, Kyoumi did seem to recognise the coin. But why? And how did Kumo know she would. And honestly, who was Kumo anyway? He looked for where his father had been, but he had gone.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Oct 2, 2018 1:08:05 GMT 10
Later that day, Harun walked with Hida Nasu on the walls around Kyuden Hida. They walked among the bushi that were on duty who acknowledged them as they passed. Nasu seemed to know many of them personally and it did please them to be known. Harun was growing to like Nasu’s company, but that wasn’t the only reason he was here. If he was to be marrying into the Crab, then he knew he better know Kyuden Hida more as he might be staying here given Shiro Hiruma was still in enemy hands. “Hida-sama?” Harun asked when they were finally alone. “Nasu, please,” said the Crab. “Sorry, Nasu-sama, I wish to ask you something,” said Harun. “Go ahead,” said Nasu. “Did you have much to do with my betrothal?” asked Harun. “Eh?” “I…guess you don’t know,” said Harun. “Well, it looks like I might be marrying your cousin.” “Yosoko?” Harun nodded. Nasu grinned. “This is wonderful news. Yosoko is a great girl and you should be very happy, and a welcome addition to the Crab.” Harun smiled. “Thank you, Nasu-sama. I only found out today, nothing has been settled yet.” “From what you have told me, Harun, the Crane is eager to be rid of you,” said Nasu. Harun nodded sadly. “Well, to answer your question, I haven’t had anything to do with it. But Yosoko has asked about you,” said Nasu. “What did you tell her?” Harun asked. “What would I tell her? That you have a different pair of chopsticks for each meal. That you…” He grinned. “That you spend three hours each morning shaping your beard.” “That is hardly fair,” Harun argued. “I only need two.” They both laughed. If this was what being a Crab was going to be like, Harun was all for it. “There is something I wanted to ask you Harun, but since you are joining the Crab I think it’s more important,” said Nasu. “I’ll be leaving for the Wall in a few days with fresh troops. I’d like if you were to come with me.” Harun looked at him in surprise. “Me? See the Wall?” Nasu nodded. “I would be honoured, Nasu,” said Harun. “I accept.” “Good then,” said Nasu, pleased. Harun looked to where he could see the Wall on the horizon. “Is it really as big as they say it is?” “Bigger,” said Nasu. “They say no one forgets their first time.” They both laughed again. “So, we will be gone for three days, maybe four,” said Nasu. They started walking again, Nasu taking heavy, confident strides. “And we get the chance be dazzled by your golden Crane armour.” Harun’s voice caught in his throat. “Actually…I no longer have it.” “What?!?” Nasu stopped and looked at Harun, a look of complete shock on his face. “What do you mean you no longer have your armour? Was it stolen?” “No, but…” Harun could feel his cheeks burn with embarrassment. “At Toshi Ranbo my father took it from me. He said after what I did…that I no longer deserved to wear it.” Nasu approached Harun. He gently put a hand on Harun’s shoulder. “I had no idea that it was this bad. To deprive a samurai of his armour…” Harun nodded. “I am sorry, I had hoped to see the wall with you.” Nasu pointed an accusing finger at Harun. “Don’t you dare apologise for what you have done, Harun. Ever! It is disgusting how they are treating you.” Harun gave a weak smile. Nasu started walking again. “Don’t worry about the armour, I’ll fix it,” he said. “Maybe it would be good for you to get away from here for a few days.” “I can’t disagree,” said Harun. Harun looked for Koneko for the rest of the day but she wasn’t to be found. He even went and asked for her where the Lion were quartered but they didn’t know either. So the next day he went through the tunnel and went down to the beach. Perhaps she would be there. The wind was intense down on the beach, whipping up the waves into a fury. Harun looked around but Koneko wasn’t in sight. He walked up the beach looking for her, still not seeing her. Could she be in those caves up ahead? As he neared the caves he could see light coming from inside one, so he went inside. The opening was narrow, but he could see it opened up further in. He could see a figure, kneeling before several flickering candles that surrounded a small statue. It was a man, bare skin to his waste, broad-shouldered. Burn marks down one side of his body. White hair. Kumo.Harun knew he should have left then, but this could be his once chance to find out more about Kumo. Slowly, carefully, he went closer. Kumo was speaking, but he couldn’t make out the words. Harun tried to get nearer, hear what he was saying. One step…two steps... Then Kumo turned. His face a mask of fury. His pale skin was golden in the candle light. His right arm red…with blood. “What are you doing here, boy?” “What are you doing?” Harun drew his sword. “You will stop this now and come with me!” He didn’t know much about magic, but he knew blood meant maho. Kumo laughed. It was raucous and mocking…sort of reminiscent of how Shimekiri had sounded before Harun had killed him. “Look, you fool!” He pointed to the statue of Shahai, the Fortune of Blood where he had been kneeling moments before. “You are just like your mother Yamada, charging in with your sword without knowing.” Harun froze. “How do you know my mother?” Kumo laughed again. “It is hardly a secret. And I knew you for her son as soon as I saw you.” He grinned, cold and mocking like a skull. “You think I was always a ronin? I was there when your father Yasuki Nakura was killed. Yamada, covered in his blood after he did the only decent thing in his life.” Kumo shook his head. “Pathetic.” “You’re wrong,” Harun said, his hands firmly on his sword. “My father was a brave man who died to save my mother, and me! I will not listen to your lies!” “Lies? Ha! Why should I make up a story when the truth is far, far more interesting?” Kumo challenged. “Ask Janisha, ask Kyoumi. Or better yet…ask that man who you call father. They are the ones who lied to you.” “That’s not true!” Harun shouted. But his arguments felt weak, flat. “That duel your father got your mother into was entirely of his own making. All he had to do was keep his mouth shut about the ashes, then nothing would have happened. Couldn’t even do that, and your mother—fool she was—stood by him.” He looked at Harun coldly. “The best thing Nakura could do was walk into that sword.” Nakura’s own words came back to him. You have honour that I never had in my life… you have your mother’s courage…“I won’t believe it!” Kumo continued as if Harun had not spoken. “I did have to give Yamada credit though, that revenge she had for your father’s death I did not think her capable of. Even with the help of those Black Hand fanatics.” He grinned. “You know that shiny armour you wore at Toshi Ranbo? Well, the one who made is courted your mother. And then she murdered him, and his wife.” He laughed again. "She killed Shogun Kano too, did you know that? Cut off his head and wrapped his guts around a pole. And they say the Spider are barbarians..." “But…” “You know it, don’t you? That’s why she abandoned you! She left you, her only child so she could carve a path of blood through Rokugan with Shiba Michio. And the fact that you, her only son, committed the biggest outrage since Kakita picked up a sword fits so well. I was there when she condemned the Crane for using gaijin weaponry.” “NO!” Harun raised his sword and prepared to strike. Kumo did not move. “Going to kill me, are you? Well, you probably could, your blade is quicker than hers was. But do you really know what you are doing?” “Killing a nameless ronin that no one will miss,” Harun said coldly. “Kill me, and you doom Rokugan,” Kumo said. “I will see the line of Hantei restored by any means necessary. I have worked for nearly twenty years for this and I will not fail! And I will not let you, Kyoumi or anyone else stop me.” “I cannot let you pass,” said Harun, his voice as sharp as his blade. “Still trying to be the hero,” said Kumo with a laugh. “If you want to do the right thing, you will let me pass. And you will take me to Kyoumi, she will make you see sense even if you cannot.” Harun didn’t move. “You were there for the prophecy,” said Kumo. “You know what must happen.” He was right, Harun remembered the words of the Kitsu….the line of Hantei must be reconciled with the line of Iweko… And Kumo was the agent to make that happen.
Harun sheathed his sword. “This doesn’t mean I trust you.” “Of course,” said Kumo. “You know where to find me.” He went back inside the cave. Harun left the cave, kicking up stones as he walked. Kumo’s words, what he had said, they couldn’t be true. But…then the ronin had no reason to lie to Harun. Harun kept walking.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Oct 7, 2018 1:22:58 GMT 10
Harun received word from Nikako that Koneko had been found, but that she did not wish to see anyone. All Harun could do was convey his apologies and good wishes to her mother. He still did not know what he had done or said that had upset her so. He received word from Kyoumi as well, unmarked but for a small bird painted in the corner. It said that she would be in the rock garden tomorrow afternoon. Harun made sure the information was passed on to Kumo. He didn’t like it at all, but he had no choice. The Hida War College which operated out of the Kyuden Hida dojo hosted a tournament of sword displays. Each contestant would show a display of skill or strength against an opponent, the winner decided by a team of judges. Each of the Great Clans submitted a candidate, and the guests from the Imperial Legions had been given that right as well. Harun had been quickly settled to represent the Legion, given encouragement to “Show them all up”. The Master Sensei of the Hida War College, Hida Sato, was judging and he had invited Doji Teruhime and the Taisa of the First Legion Katsura Hisato to judge with him. Harun sat with the combatants and watched with some eagerness for his turn. Akodo Miraiko was representing the Lion Clan, but her demonstration with paper targets paled in skill next to her opponent Kakita Yashiro. The Kakita had done a rather beautiful display of slicing paper cranes in half after they were scattered in the air. Harun had seen Yashiro around the castle, usually in the company of Doji Teruhime so they hadn’t spoken. No doubt that’s Teruhime’s doing, Harun thought, staring across at her, and I wouldn’t past her to spread about the “gaijin Crane” name. It came to Harun’s turn, and by accident or design he faced Hida Nasu. The two bowed and the judges motioned for Nasu to go first. Nasu called for rolled tatami mats to be brought. A row of four were lined up close together, and then another row and another. Three rows of rolled tatami mats. Nasu drew his katana and went into a wide swing, with one slash he sliced off the tops of the mats making an upward diagonal cut. All of them, but one which was only nicked slightly with the edge of his sword. The Hida came back for it though, cutting off the top and giving the rest of them another shaving. Nasu bowed to the applause to the audience and Harun joined in. When Nasu stepped to the side, Harun began his own display. From inside one of his sleeves he took out an apple. He then threw the apple into the air then drew his sword and sliced the apple in two as it fell through the air. Impressive, but not amazing. While the audience gave respectable applause while Harun sheathed his sword and picked up the pieces. He then took a bite of one of the apple halves and then tossed it into the air. In a flash of steel, Harun drew his sword again, skewering the apple on the tip of his sword on the very space where Harun had bitten into it. He bowed to the much warmer applause of the audience, then sat down and cleaned his blade. Harun faced off against a Mantis next, progressing to the finals which was of course against Kakita Yashiro. They bowed to the judges and Yashiro went first. He was calm and didn’t seem to notice Harun at all, perfectly in the moment. This just infuriated Harun. Look at him, Harun seethed, he just wants to show me up in front of everyone. Especially Teruhime. But I’ll show him. A small candle was put in front of Yashiro. The candle was lit. Yoshiro stood in front of the candle silently for a moment, then drew his katana. There was a flash of movement as he cut towards the candle, cutting off the tip and resting it on the point of his sword for all to see. And it was still lit. There was enthusiastic applause for Yashiro, especially from the Crane. Harun stood there very still, cold with anger. It had to be deliberate, the trick with the candle. His father Karasu was known from it, taking the top of a still lit candle and using it to light a fire to make tea or light a lantern. Harun closed his fist as the anger built up inside him like a fire. This was an insult, and all part of the Crane’s plan to further embarrass him. I’ll show them, Harun thought as he took up his position for his display. He signalled motioned for Koharu to stand across from him with her bow. Harun stood still, his hand on the hilt of his sword, ready to spring into action. I’ll show them, thought Harun, the anger bubbling away, I’ll show them all, they’ll have to respect me now after this… Koharu fitted an arrow to her bow and made the shot. Harun drew his sword, the blade slicing through the air as he attempted to split it…and missed. In his anger he had gotten the timing wrong, the arrow going over his blade and planting itself in a wooden pillar. Harun stared at it. I missed, how could I miss? He felt cold all over. He took his bow with as much grace as he could muster, acknowledging Yashiro’s victory. But he had to stand there while Yashiro was congratulated. And then, when he was sure he didn’t need to be there a moment longer, Harun left.
The next afternoon, Harun went to the rock garden near where the Imperials and Chosen were quartered with Kumo. The two did not exchange any words beyond exchanging greetings. Kumo being affable and pleasant certainly did not help Harun’s mood. Kyoumi was sitting on a stone bench at one side of the rock garden. Her attire was slightly more simpler than Harun had seen her wearing on the dais, easier to move in but still fitting her status as Voice of the Emperor. She carried a pale blue parasol decorated with birds and flowers, not just protection from the winter sun but giving some measure of privacy. Harun went over to her and introduced Kumo. The ronin made a low bow, but Harun noticed something. A curious exchange between them beyond the formalities and courtesies. They know each other, Harun realised, This…this is impossible! “Thank you, Harun-kun,” said Kyoumi. Her tone indicated that he was dismissed, but her fan signalled that she didn’t want him to leave. So he went some distance away, sitting on another stone bench sitting across from two women who were playing go. Harun watched them, though he couldn’t hear what was being said the exchange between them was interesting. Kyoumi was still, quietly listening while Kumo was far more animated, angry even. When Kyoumi shook her head, this only seemed to make things worse. Kumo gesticulated wildly, his voice rising in volume so Harun could hear what was being said. “…I swear, if you do not arrange this marriage I’ll take matters into my own hands. I’ll take both of them and leave Rokugan, you can watch your Empire burn just as I watched mine…” He spoke with such viciousness that Harun stood, his hand on his katana. You ronin scum…how dare you! “…you need Haihime to finish this, Yuhumi will never stop fighting you…” Harun’s face was hard. Should have killed you when I had the chance… Kyoumi looked up, looking at Harun directly in the eyes. That was enough for Harun to stop, and with a slight shake of her head he sat back down. He stared openly now at Kumo, not bothering to hide the revulsion for the ronin. When Kyoumi spoke her voice was calm, and not only did Kumo calm down, he looked pleased. He stayed just long enough to get a confirmation from her, and as soon as she nodded he bowed and left. Harun quickly came up beside Kyoumi. “Should I…” Kyoumi shook her head. “Let him go, he got what he came for,” she said, her voice having a slight edge to it. Harun looked at her in surprise. But whatever came over Kyoumi had passed and she was herself again. “Come, let us have some tea,” Kyoumi said, leading Harun inside. “I have been wanting to talk to you.”
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Oct 9, 2018 21:15:33 GMT 10
Thanks for Shinwa for guest authoring this with me. I hope you like the scene.
The cold stone chamber was as stoic as any of the Crab, large and cold. The new Voice had found a way of making it her own, however. Along one wall hung two long scrolls, each completed with perfect calligraphy. One held the single word: "History". The other, a different word: "Tomorrow." By each delicate ikebana stood, the soft, silver buds of the willow, and the gnarled bark of the oak. Interestingly by there also lay a single, impossibly out of season, silk flower. A low table was set before the Voice, arranged with tea in a simple porcelain pot. She gestured Harun forward. "Come." He paused for a moment to really look at her before entering. Her delicate hands, her hair heavily streaked with grey, the face impassive and cool with makeup that made it impossible to determine her actual age. He remembered once, long ago, when she taught him and Arahime to swim, splashing and laughing in the shallow waves of the ocean. It seemed forever ago. Maybe it was. Harun slid into place across the table. He watched her make the tea, a million questions going through his mind. Who was Kumo? How did Kyoumi know him? Was he trustworthy? If he wasn’t, why did Kyoumi just give him what he wanted? If he was then was he right about all those things he said about Harun’s birth parents? And if he was right why had Harun been lied to? Harun felt his anger rising. It was bad enough how he was being treated by the Crane, but the prospect that those closest to him had lied to him was almost too much to bear. This was his heritage, a part of his own identity and to find out it was based on deception... He sat there silently, watching Kyoumi serve the tea. She said she had wanted to talk to him. Well, he wasn’t going to stop her. But he would get answers. Kyoumi pours the tea slowly, deliberately, not surrendering to haste. As Harun's anger grew, she watched him, moving slowly through the parts of the tea ceremony. It was all Harun could do to hold his temper, but he managed to follow the ancient ritual, even if his heart pounded in his chest with questions she was not answering. But finally, as the first cups were ritually drained, the Voice of the Emperor spoke. "I sat where you do, Harun-kun. Eighteen years ago, at my first winter court. A thousand eager questions on the tip of my tongue, struggling to hold them all in. The Princess of Ashes across from me, the tea poured by the Lord of the Emerald Spider. Sometimes, no action is better. Sometimes questions are better answered with silence than speech. This is one of those times. Do you know who she is, the Princess of Ash? Haihime?" Harun nodded. “She is Kanpeki’s daughter.” "Yes. Born of the blood of the Hantei." Kyoumi takes another sip of tea. "Save for her daughter, the last, perhaps, of the direct Line." A long silence stretched out between them, a silence Kyoumi allowed to fill with all of Harun's impatience. "What of your enemy? You fight with the Legions. Do you know who you fight? What do you know of Yuhmi?" “He is in charge of the Onyx, took over when Kanpeki died,” says Harun. “We thought he was at Toshi Ranbo, but he’d fled.” Harun looked at his teacup. What does this have to do with anything? "He is an Oni Lord," the fragile-looking Kakita said without the slightest waver. "Created from the severed arm of Daigotsu, and granted the name of Hantei. Pierced and reforged with the blade of the Hantei, and empowered with the Tao of Fu Leng. From the reports we received over the years, he has sipped power from the souls of the Empire like a giant insect, until, bloated and swollen, he was the one who finally claimed the life of the weakened and mad Daigotsu Kanpeki, bringing all under its own control." She paused, but her stormy grey eyes were locked on Harun's, unblinking. "No weapon, no magic, not even those of gaijin pepper, can touch him. Jigoku has extended its hand over him. No matter how many times we defeat his minions, he will return, and draw up the armies of hell with him to wage war on the Empire. There is none that can harm him. Save one." Harun looked up. “Haihime?” What Kumo said...is that what he meant? "Yes." Her sonorous voice was impassive. "This war will never end until Yuhmi is slain, by a true Hantei heir. There is no other." Harun looked at her. “Is that what Kumo said?” He asked. “Why would you trust him at all?” He watched her answer carefully, this was but the first step of what he wanted to know. "This is what Kumo has said. But this is also what those in thrall to the darkness we have captured and tortured to find answers have said. This is what the assassins that have been sent to slay him and survived have said. This is what the Scorpion traitors who turned on him and failed have said. We know this because it is true." She gave the softest of sighs. "I would never trust Kumo. I know who—and what—he is. But that does not make him wrong." As she spoke, the light in the room dimmed and Harun could feel a chill breeze blow across the back of his neck. It stirred the Voice's hair, but her face remained still. Harun started at her, his mouth open in shock. “What? But...how? He can’t be right...because if he is...” Harun took deep breaths in and out to stop from flying into a rage. How could you? All of you, lying to me when all I ever wanted was the truth... She seemed to address his thought before he spoke it. "No. We did not lie. But you did not know all the truths you sought. But you are an adult now. And I am here and willing to answer. Ask plain and I will answer." Her tone was soothing, but filled with authority, and her gr3y eyes watched him, unblinking. The words came fast out of Harun’s mouth. “Why did my father die? Why was he in that duel at all? Why did he let the Scorpion kill him?” He took a deep breath. “I was told he was a hero, saving my mother’s life and mine. Are you saying that that is not what happened?” If Kyoumi is surprised at the line of questioning, she does not show it. But she does not soften the blows her words have to offer either. "Your birth father died because he placed himself firmly between the Scorpion and their chosen vengeance. Then in a moment of rashness, boasted of this fact before the very Throne of Heaven. Rather than flee, when the Scorpion swore he would pay for their humiliation, he, and your mother, thought they could hang their hopes, their futures, on the Traditions of Kakita, not realizing that the Scorpion had long before abandoned all such pretence. As so many have since." Kyoumi's expression did not change. "In a moment of clarity, there, at the end, he realized he could not allow you and your mother to suffer or die for his mistake. Not when his own life would be enough. He chose to take the final blow of the duellist’s blade himself rather than let her be his champion." The traditions of Kakita... That smarted, but Harun brushed it aside. ”Why wasn’t I told this before?” Harun asked, his voice a little calmer but still angry. “I met his spirit right before Zetsubou died, and I didn’t know the whole story. But he thought I did.” The Voice tilted her head and allowed her eyes to soften with compassion. "At first, it was because we initially believed there was a chance that even Nakura's death would be insufficient to sate the Scorpion's thirst for vengeance. And that even the home of the Emerald Champion could not protect you. Later? Because you might seek vengeance of your own, ignorant as you were if what vengeance your mother had claimed. And if we had told you of what she had done, you would have to have grown up bearing a burden no child should have to bear. That which you carried was heavy enough. We could protect you from this. For a little time." “Vengeance? From my mother?” Harun turned cold. “That’s true as well?” "Yes." There was a stiffness there, like a shut door with something terrible behind it. Normally Harun would accept this, but not now. “Tell me.” Kyoumi folded her hands in her lap and gazed through Harun as if to some dark memory long past. "She was only a girl. A gilded viper. Raised by the Onyx Scorpion to be a weapon of the courts, but not by her own choosing, no more than it was a choice for any of them. I had felt the sting of her words before in the court, and carried my shame, as had others; she was gifted with a wicked tongue. But they were only words still, intended to provoke and confuse, placed by her lord's command. It was her words that provoked Nakura to make his rash boast." She paused, eyes fixed on the distance. "But in the end, she had managed to escape. Betrayed Kanpeki, stirred the Scorpion Lord Nitoshi into action. Married a skilled smith. She fled to Otosan Uchi to make for herself a new nest far from corruption's touch. Over time, with her husband's affection, she began to shake off the call and, somehow, out of that twisted darkness make a path for herself towards a light, however dim." Kyoumi's voice softened, hinting at a distant grief. "I found them. After. The Silent Maiden had peeled their faces off with a knife. Him first. Tied this little viper up and made her watch while she flayed him alive. Then she killed her, piece by piece, still screaming." Kyoumi's eyes went directly to Harun's, locking him into place. "The Scorpion was my cousin." Harun turned pale. This was a side of Kyoumi he had never seen. He shuddered. “I am sorry, I should not have asked.” He felt rather small. “Kumo...we spoke on the beach. He told me very gladly all I didn’t know. He used the truth as a weapon, and one that I have used to attack you.” Kyoumi waved her hand dismissively. "That is what he is. His name is...was...Susumu Ketsueki. A high ranking follower of Kanpeki and a priest of Shahai. Once, long ago. But he had more loyalty to the blood of the Hantei than to the one destroyed his family and tortured him into something...other. He swore his life to serve the true Hantei line, and when Haihime was found, he found a way out of the trap Kanpeki had placed him in. Only a fool would underestimate his power, or the lengths he would go to get what he desired, for he would gladly see the Empire in ashes if it meant that she would rule over them. But he is willing to help bring an end to this madness and allow this age to die so that a new Empire may be born, as long as it bears the blood of the Hantei at its head." Kyoumi picked up her cup of tea. "Haihime’s husband, Sorei-san has watched and cared for the child with great loyalty, compassion, and duty every moment of her life. She is untainted and her spirit is pure. This sacrifice will yet be another the Crane will make to see this through. After everything else that has been sacrificed, it is a small enough thing." “You mean the marriage?” Harun asked. “Isanko and Prince Kiseki? Is that what Kumo wanted?” He picked up his teacup and let it warm his hands. "Yes.” Kyoumi answered. “And on your life, you must let no one know who it was that sought this." Harun nodded without hesitation. “I promise,” he said. He had another thought. “Is that what happens now, Oba-san? Does it matter anymore how we do the things we do as long as they’re done?” He hadn’t had the chance to talk with her about Shimekiri yet. He had hoped that if she was not sympathetic then she would at least listen to him more than his father Karasu had. It may have been trick of the wavering light, but for a moment the breezes that drifted through the room and Kyoumi looked...old. She sighed. "Oh, my poor boy," she answered, great pity in her voice. "Does it matter how we do things as long as they are done? We are the Crane. It is our place to choose what matters in this world. And, despite everything, all the wars and the bloodshed and horror, we, your parents, have tried to hold onto making the 'How' matter. Tried to keep showing that how you do things does matter. If it does not, then what place is there for honour? For sincerity and courtesy and bushido itself? What place is there for art and beauty, when the 'How' no longer matters? What place is there for Samurai? We are nothing but thugs with swords if the 'How' does not matter." She brushed an elegant finger around the lip of her cup. "It is because of our failure that you ask this question. Because we have had to slip, and slip, and give up little pieces of that "How" to try to defeat an evil that makes the very earth scream in agony. We have tried to bring that into alignment with the Heavens. Show that the ‘How’ does matter, and that we only needed to update the traditions to grant new meaning. But our efforts were not enough. Not if our own children cannot see why the 'How' matters." Again, she looked into Harun's dark eyes with her piercing eyes of stormy grey. "If you are Crane, it is up to you to create the Empire we live in. Do you truly want to live in an Empire where 'How we do things' does not matter? Where what matters is only that they get done?" “No, no I don’t,” said Harun. “But I have seen things that make me question it. I fought alongside ronin, heimin, people I trusted not because of what they were but because they who they were and what they could do. I saw my friend die, cut to pieces in front of my eyes while people stood by and let it happen.” He took a sip of tea to compose himself. “Many more Crane would have died that day for no reason at all. But I stopped it, I saved them. And no one cares.” "Tell me of that day," Kyoumi said, lifting her tea to her lips. Harun took a sip of tea and began his tale. “Takano Unit, we were to be one of the first into the city on the Mantis boats,” Harun began. “Father was there to see us off. It was raining.” He took a breath. “We were all there on the deck with the Mantis when we saw the Phoenix’s wave. It looked...beautiful. But then we got inside the city and saw the destruction it had wrought, saw the...the bodies. And heard them, slamming against the side of the boat.” He closed his eyes. He could still hear them sometimes, especially in his nightmares. “When we landed had to fight for every scrap of ground,” he continued. “There were some Dragon bushi, something happened to them, I still don’t know. We had to kill them, and they might have killed us had the Crane not arrived.” He paused. “Had Kakita Isamu-sama not arrived.” He smiled sadly. “My friend, Doji Kouta was with him.” He took a sip of tea, composing himself. “We fought our way through the palace itself then, it was dark and confusing. But we made it to the throne room, and there was Shimekiri, sitting on the throne itself grinning at us like a madman. Isamu-sama, he had told me earlier not to interfere. He went up on the dais and challenged Shimekiri...” Harun paused again. Blinking, remembering. It was as if he had forgotten Kyoumi was there at all. “He was the first victim. Isamu, he was so good, so skilled...but it wasn’t enough. Shimekiri took his head and threw it off the dais. “Kouta was next, no one stopped him. No one even tried and he never had a chance, the poor fool.” He ran his hands over his face. His anger rising again. “I had to do something, I had to. Someone had to stop Shimekiri, for good. No one was really trying. All I had to do look at Daidoji Akemi. I had seen what she could do with her gaijin powder weapon, if I could just get her to throw off his first strike...I knew I had just one chance. I do hope nothing has happened to her.” He took another sip of tea. “But I knew if I killed him that would be the end. If I killed him, no one else would need to die that day. And if he killed me...well I was ready for that.” He was quiet again for a moment. “I still couldn’t believe when it worked, when I had him, when I had the chance to end him and avenge all the deaths he had caused.” He looked up at Kyoumi. “But when it was done...all they cared about was how I did it, not the fact that he was dead. That was what they were trying to do. What else did they want from me?” Kyoumi listened closely to Harun's words. "It is difficult to stand aside. To watch others die in your place when you think there must be some way you can help. You are not the first to feel this way, Harun. And you were gifted with a way to help, even though you knew when you did it that that was not the plan, that that was not your orders. The deaths of Isamu, of Kou. They must have felt useless. Meaningless. Perhaps you even still feel that way. Do you? Do you feel their deaths were devoid of meaning? Do you know why they made the choices they made?" “Kouta and Isamu-sama were willing to sacrifice themselves,” said Harun. “But their deaths didn’t change anything, they didn’t have impact. Shimekiri was still there without a scratch on him after.” "Did you see Doji Uchisuke and Kakita Hotsume? They were in the room with you." Kyoumi's voice was calm and reasoned. The names, two of the finest Kenshinzen the Kakita school had to offer. “No, I didn’t,” said Harun. “There were lots of people in the throne room, they probably saw me though.” A slight dip of her head. "They were there to observe Isamu and Kouta. Fifty senpai of the Kakita Academy had travelled to have the honour of facing Shimekiri. All of them expected to die, if only to wear him down piece by piece. But, one of them, or Uchisuke or Hotsume, once they had observed his techniques, worn him down, and been blessed by the blessings of the Kami thanks to the Asahina...they would have killed Shimekiri. They were there to give their lives to redeem the Kakita Dueling Academy. To show that, in spite of all adversity and the corruptions of Jigoku, the Heavens really would bless the path of Kakita. That justice could be found on the edge of a sword, wielded by the pure of heart." She quietly took a sip of her tea. "The fundamental belief in the Way of the Sword, that the world can fall into black and white at the will of the Heavens. This belief you have studied since that first day you and Arahime..." Her voice caught just a tiny bit. "were tested for the Dojo... this belief has saved thousands of lives. Ended thousands of blood-feuds. Stopped battles before they had begun. Isamu and Kouta and Uchisuke and Hotsume and the rest...and Karasu, they could not allow the Empire to believe that a creature like Shimekiri would be the final word for Kakita's Way. The Pure of Heart had to be victorious. So people would, once he was gone, have a way to believe in Iaijutsu again. To believe in us." Harun knew Kyoumi was right, he had been raised with these values, not just learned them at the dojo. The lives saved, the justice done by the blade of a Kakita. That mattered, that still had to matter. But... “But...but...I killed him,” said Harun, he still felt strongly about what he did but no longer angry. “Does that mean nothing?” Kyoumi looked at the boy...man...steadily. "More would have died, to wear the Blood Crane down. More lives lost on his blade. What they will do with their lives...that is up to them. But their lives are not 'Nothing.' " He still looks so young. Like Kousuda. Younger. "Beyond that? What was sacrificed for you to complete your plan? The son of the Emerald Champion, the Topaz Champion, an officer of the Imperial Legion, Kakita-trained all his life...used a gaijin-pepper weapon during a false duel to defeat an enemy he challenged. An enemy that had just been declared the finest duellist since Kakita. He did this before the eyes of members of every clan, the Imperial Legions. What does that mean before the clans?" Her face softened in pity, and she reached out a hand towards him. "My poor Harun. You are still Crane. What do you think it means?" Karasu’s words from Toshi Ranbo came back to him. Twelve hundred years...you threw it all away in one moment...How many others do you think will try and do what you did? He was wrong, Kyoumi was wrong...they had to be. All those centuries, all that tradition, all the sweat and steel and blood...it still had to mean something. If it all could be thrown away by so easily, how much did it matter at all? “No, no I won’t believe it,” he said. Quickly, firmly, as if saying the worse would dismiss all doubts including his own. “What I did...what I had to do to kill Shimekiri I am not proud of. They won’t throw twelve hundred years of Iaijutsu tradition all away because of me. They can’t.” Kyoumi spreads her hands. "The avalanche has already started; It is too late for the pebbles to vote. But...there is hope. It might yet be redeemed, but those stories are beyond us now." Harun shook his head. “Respectfully, Oba-san, I disagree.” He took a sip of tea. “Besides, I’m not going to be in the clan much longer to provide further embarrassment by my mere presence. You know about my betrothal?” Perfect control, her voice cool. The Voice of the Emperor. "I had heard there were inquiries." Harun looked up, curious about her change in tone. “Well, the first meeting is tomorrow, the Hiruma Daimyo and his daughter, father, the Nakodo everyone...they all seem very determined to have it all over and done with,” he said, looking into his teacup. “So, I will be not returning north with you, I am staying here. Hopefully that will be enough.” He didn’t sound happy about it at all, had resigned himself to the inevitable. And he of course couldn’t tell her how he really felt. That him marrying another was somehow the ending of all hope that Arahime might be found alive. That he could have a future with her. "And so life goes on." She inclined her head. "I wish you well, always, Harun-kun." A gentle dismissal, but a dismissal none the less. Harun finished his tea. He felt as if they were on opposite sides of a great chasm. Harun wanted to reach across, find the words to heal that rift. But there were none.
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