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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Nov 27, 2017 20:25:32 GMT 10
The Imperial Winter Court began in earnest, Karasu visited as often as he could which was not as often as he liked. His wife Hitomi came more often though, she had also been at Shiro Mirumoto the previous winter but Yamada had not really met her. She was gentle and quiet and Yamada thought she would make Harun a good mother. She would sometimes carry Harun in the sling when she and Yamada would walk around the city, usually going down to the Imperial Legion barracks where Karasu usually was if he was not in the Forbidden City. Harun began to be a bit of a favourite down at the barracks, some of the soldiers would find excuses to come in to speak to Karasu. Harun laid on a blanket on the floor, sucking on the soft toy horse that Karasu had given him. Kousuda spent much of his day in the Forbidden City, and some evenings. As did Arami. The evenings they were not there, they brought news and gossip to Yamada and Kyoumi. Like the Emperor’s new Golden Throne, though it was made of shakudo that was only a little gold and mostly copper. It was ornately decorated with the mons of all the nine Great Clans in brilliant coloured enamels. Privately, it made Yamada feel a little uneasy. Such a lavish thing when many in Rokugan were suffering the trials of war and famine. But she didn’t question it, a new throne was needed as the old Steel Throne which had been in use since the days of the Toturi Dynasty was still in Toshi Ranbo. And Toshi Ranbo was still held by the Onyx. The scarcity of food from the famine was something Yamada kept in mind when preparing for Harun’s Okuizone, his First Food Celebration. She managed to procure the traditional set of dishes, red lacquerware for a boy, but lavishly celebrating food seemed somehow wrong. The food they usually ate was simple and in frugal servings. Miso soup, plain rice, pickles from the vegetables from the garden. Sometimes supplemented with flatbread and hummus that Kousuda favoured. She talked this over with Sumiko, voicing her concerns. It seemed a bit trivial to speak to Kyoumi about. Sumiko assured Yamada she would do what she could with the limited resources available to her in the household. And several says later, she told Yamada she had succeeded in procuring what was necessary. She said nothing of how, but was especially gracious towards Arami for the rest of his stay. The day of Harun’s Okuizone came. Yamada dressed Harun in festal clothing of purple and deep blue, an homage to both his parents. Karasu and Hitomi arrived at the appointed time, and with them was another guest. “I do hope you don’t mind,” said Hitomi apologetically. “But she has only just arrived and assured me she did not want to miss this.” Hitomi stepped aside to reveal who was standing behind her. Yasuki Yamase, eldest daughter of the Yasuki Damiyo. Yamada had known her at Shiro Mirumoto, she had been nakodo for her marriage to Nakura and Yamada had had to “bargain” with her in the Capturing of the Groom on her wedding day. Right after court was over, Yamase had managed to get back to Crab lands where things were far worse than in the rest of Rokugan. She had promised Yamada she would tell Nakura’s family what had happened, if they were still alive. And now, she was back. Yamada welcomed her warmly inside, having her here for one of Harun’s rituals of life was a good sign. A member of Nakura’s own family, she led them all into the house. Izumi came out and put Harun in her arms, he seemed to regard the gathering sceptically. Yamase had brought gifts for Harun as well. One was a wish doll, traditionally made by Crab mothers for their babies to guard against evil spirits. It was from Nakura’s sister, Momoibura. “I do want to meet her,” said Yamada. Nakura had told her much about his sister as they were especially close. “How was she with…what happened?” “Death is so constant there,” Yamase answered. “She was saddened by Nakura’s death, of course. But the news I brought her of a child on the way seemed to help.” She took out a small bamboo scroll case from his sleeve. “And this is my gift for Harun-kun, to make sure he knows his Yasuki heritage.” After the customary offering and refusals, Yamada accepted it. She opened the case and inside was a scroll sealed with a wax Yasuki mon. “Save it until he is older,” said Yamase. “Hopefully by then it will be known who he favours.”
There was a happy mood around the table that they all seemed to share. It was as if the war, the famine and everything else was gone for just that moment and they were like any other family in Rokugan celebrating one of the rituals of life. Through one way or another, Sumiko managed to acquire food that was simple as well as celebratory. And it all looked good on the red lacquered dishes. There was steamed rice mixed with adzuki beans, a whole steamed carp, miso soup with a large piece of tofu in it, simmered spiced chickpeas and some pickled vegetables, endamame beans and a dried plum blossom fruit. And last of all were some smooth stones that were from the local shrine to help harden Harun’s teeth. Yamada sat with Harun in her lap, trying to take interest in the rice she was offering him with the chopsticks. But he kept turning his head away, far more interested in the people watching him. “I don’t think he is used to seeing this many people at once,” said Yamada. “It’s all so new to him,” said Kyoumi with a smile. Yamada tried to tempt him with the rice again. Harun flailed his arms wildly, knocking the chopsticks of Yamada’s hand, spraying them both with rice. “It seems you are disarmed!” declared Karasu with a laugh. He took Harun so Yamada could brush the rice off her. “No doubt the first of many,” he said, holding Harun upright. With a bit of help from Izumi, Yamada managed to get the rice off her hair and clothing. Harun was in Hitomi’s lap now, Karasu offering some tofu to him. It was a touching scene, but a little painful for Yamada to see. They already look like a family, she thought, gentle mother, doting father…but it should have Nakura and me. Everything I value was taken from me, and now I am giving the rest away. Arami, who sat next to her around the corner of the table, was the only one who looked her way. To see that bittersweet feeling show on her face for just a moment. He didn’t say anything, he didn’t need to. The fact that he saw and that she knew he had was enough.
After the meal was done, Yamada took Harun to her room to feed him and put him down to sleep. When she returned, the conversation had turned a little more serious. Yamase was talking, her voice low and serious. Arami poured tea while they listened to her, pouring one for Yamada as she sat back down. Yamase painted a grim picture of the lands of the Crab Clan. Much of the land had been overrun by the Onyx forces, and what wasn’t could not always been relied upon to be free of the Shadowlands Taint. “I managed to get as far as Kyuden Hida,” Yamase said. “There’s too many people there than should be, but so many have nowhere else to go. It’s not only the Onyx that are killing the Crab, there’s hunger, there’s disease.” She looked at Yamada. “There are so few children being born there, and more are needed to replace the dead.” Yamada nodded gravely. “’I do hope you secure the aid you need, Yamase-sama,” she said. “Is that why you have returned.” “That is one reason,” said Yamase. “I will also be representing the Crab at the Test of the Emerald Champion.” Yamada quickly looked at Karasu to see if there was any reaction, but it was as blank and penetrable as any Crane. “Who else will be competing?” Kousuda asked, trying to lighten the mood. “It’s just been finalised, I saw it this morning,” said Karasu. “Mirumoto Tanaka from the Dragon, Daigotsu Yukari for the Spider Clan—” “Yukari?” Yamada asked in surprise. “She didn’t mention anything about it.” “Akodo Tetsu will be there for the Lion,” Karasu continued. “Shogun Kano is here too, no doubt to see if he wins.” Yamada nodded grimly. “Shiba Eraki will be representing the Phoenix, Yoritomo Taketada for the Mantis,” Karasu said, counting them on his fingers. “And Ide Nekomefor the Unicorn.” “Ide Toboku-dono’s daughter?” Kousuda asked. Karasu confirmed with a nod. “Oh Yamada, I saw Toboku-dono earlier. She gave me this, and wishes to meet.” He gave Yamada a scroll sealed in wax with the Ide mon. Yamada took it. “Of course, I will be glad to see Toboku-dono,” she said. “Do you know what she wanted to see me about?” But Kousuda shook his head.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Dec 3, 2017 14:18:22 GMT 10
Ide Toboku, the Ide family damiyo, arrived the next afternoon. She was a woman in her forties, dressed in the Ide fashion of the gaijin-style deel with the fur trimmed hat and glass-beaded jewellery. With her was her daughter Nekome who was a few years older than Yamada, and was very quiet through the entire meeting. It was a little unusual for Toboku to make a call to the house of one with lower status than herself. The proper protocol was for Yamada to visit her, but this was very much the Ide way, accommodating to a fault. Besides, Kousuda had also said Toboku had asked about Harun. And when the welcomes were over with, Toboku presented her gift for Harun. A furin, a traditional glass windchime painted with dancing horses in bright colours. Tea was served, pleasantries were traded. And then, when there was a lull in the conversation, Toboku finally got around to the object her visit. “In these times of strife, it is always important to celebrate the rituals of life,” she said. “But I also bring word from Lord Moto, from what he has told me about you, Utaku-san, you acquitted yourself very well in the Imperial Court, even in the face of your own personal tragedy. Your actions brought considerable success for the Unicorn.” “You are very kind to say so, Ide-dono,” said Yamada, bowing at Toboku’s praise. “I only wish to serve as best I can.” “Such dedicated service should be rewarded,” said Toboku with a smile. She took out a leather scroll case decorated with the mon of the Unicorn in deep purple and sealed in wax. Yamada knew such a thing could only have come from Moto Chinua himself. Yamada broke the seal and took out the scroll. It wasn’t a letter, it was orders. A commission giving her the rank of Taisa, with orders to take command of the Fourth Utaku Battlemaiden Legion in the spring. It bore Chinua’s official chip as Champion of the Unicorn Clan and Leader of the Khol. “Taisa…of the Fourth Legion,” Yamada said, reading it again and again, a little dazed. “This…this was my mother’s command.” Toboku nodded. “You have earned it, Utaku-san,” she said. “I…thank you,” said Yamada. It felt awkward, Yamada knew there was no question in Toboku’s mind of her not accepting it. Yet this was what Yamada knew she had to do. And more, this was what Yamada had always wanted, if was after all why she had even been to Shiro Mirumoto in the first place. She heard Harun waking up in the next room, Yamada excused herself, glad to have a reason to leave the table. She returned later with Harun in her arms. “Mind if I hold him?” Toboku said. Yamada handed him over with a smile. The Ide damiyo held Harun in her arms, smiling and talking to him but he seemed more interested in playing with her necklace. “I do hope we can make a better world for you, Harun-kun,” she said. “And perhaps between all of us, the war could be over by the time you grow up.”
After Toboku had gone, Yamada sat in the living room a while, thinking. Harun was content to roll around on a blanket, wiggling his toes at the ceiling. “Something is wrong, isn’t it?” Yamada turned to see Kyoumi sitting behind her. I should have known better than to try and hide what I was thinking from a Crane, she thought. “Yes,” said Yamada. “It’s difficult to explain…ever since I have arrived here it is as if I have been lying to everyone. And to people to expect me to fall into line as I should do…as I always do.” “You could explain it to them honestly,” Kyoumi suggested, but even she didn’t sound completely convinced about that. Yamada shook her head. “I don’t think I could ever explain it to anyone in a way that could be understood,” she said. “Not even to Lord Chinua himself. It’s easier this way, but I am asking you, Kousuda, Karasu and everyone to lie for me. To protect me when I am…deserting the clan.” “Not just for you, Yamada,” Kyoumi reminded her, looking down at Harun trying to eat his toes.” “I know,” said Yamada, smiling at her son. “Will he understand all this though?” “He will,” said Kyoumi. “I will make sure, we all will.”
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Dec 8, 2017 14:34:50 GMT 10
The day of the Test of the Emerald Champion arrived, and the entire Imperial court went down to the Imperial Legion barracks. At least, the ones who had enough influence to manage to get seats. Kousuda went to the first day, bringing back the results. Yukari had been eliminated, as had the Phoenix and Mantis candidates. Kyoumi had wanted to go, not just to see Karasu compete but to see the tournament was not something that happened every day. Traditionally, the tournament was in summer and was held on the Plains of Thunder east of the Shinoimen Mori. But these were extraordinary circumstances, the year of Karasu’s temporary service was up and the Plains of Thunder were well behind the Onyx lines. Finally, after a little arguing on Kyoumi’s part, Kousuda agreed she could attend the final day: the iaijutsu duels. And so, on a particularly frosty morning, they all went down to the barracks and took their seats high in the stands that had been erected overlooking the vast parade ground that had been prepared for the event. The stands were a general who’s who of the Imperial court, with notables such as the Kakita and Ide Damiyos sitting close to the box where the Emperor and Empress would sit when they arrived. Closest of all was the Emperor’s own brother Susumu Shibatsu, Champion of the Spider Clan. He sat with his wife Susumu Neya. Everyone else standing underneath the erected awnings that ringed the courtyard. And there was someone else there, not in the stands, standing by himself wearing armour in the colours of the Lion Clan. It was the Shogun of the Empire, Akodo Kano. Like Karasu had said, he was there to make sure the Lion candidate won. They day was cold, so they wrapped themselves up warmly and Kousuda passed around some tea. Harun seemed content to stay where he was, in the sling and warm beneath Yamada’s fur-lined jacket, his brown eyes peeping out at everything he saw. Behind the stands, Hitomi came out of one of buildings of the barracks. She made her way up the stands to where they were sitting. “How is he?” Kyoumi asked. “Nervous,” said Hitomi. “But he won’t admit it.” “He will be fine,” said Kousuda reassuringly. Yamada nodded in agreement. Below them, there was the sound of taiko drums signalling the beginning of formalities. The four remaining candidates came out one by one and were announced by Miya Kiyokaizu, the Imperial Herald to subdued applause. “Yasuki Yamase, daughter of Yasuki Tono, representing the Crab Clan.” Yamase emerged, wearing subdued deep blues, her face blank and impassive as she bowed. “Ide Nekome, daughter of Ide Toboku, representing the Unicorn Clan.” Nekome wore the deel and fur hat of the Ide like the day Yamada had met her. Looking more like a courtier than a bushi. “Akodo Tetsu, son of Akodo Nobu, representing the Lion Clan.” Tetsu came out, in browns and golds, smiling at a woman in the crowd who wore shugenja robes. “Kakita Karasu, son of Kakita Toshiken, representing the Crane Clan.” Karasu got the loudest applause of all which still managed to be subdued. He was dressed in a light blue jinbei and matching hakami with a black kataginu. After this, the judges were announced, all Master Sensei from the prominent dojos of the Empire. Kakita Kenshin from the Kakita Duelling Academy, Mirumoto Hatsuto from the Iron Mountain Dojo and Akodo Kagetada from the Akodo Kensai Dojo. “The test will proceed as follows,” continued Miya Kiyokaizu. “Ide Nekome against Yasuki Yamase, then Kakita Karasu against Akodo Tetsu. The winners will contest the championship, may the fortunes favour your blades.” Karasu and Tetsu drew back, standing on the side lines. Someone came up to talk to Karasu. Is that Moto Taigo? Yamada wondered, but it was impossible to tell from this distance. The shugenja prepared the ring while Yamase and Nekome waited. Yamada and Kyoumi exchanged a silent glance, they both had a good idea how this would go. Yamada felt a little sorry for Nekome. “Yamase and Nekome took up their stances in the duelling ring. Complete silence fell over the arena but for the faint sound of the wind. Even Harun was quiet, peeping curiously outside Yamada’s jacket. The Yamase struck, her sword slicing through the air and cutting odd one of the tassels of Nekome’s hat. A gasp went through the crowd and there was polite applause. Nekome bowed to concede and then left the arena, Yamase went to one side to wait while the duelling ring was purified again. When Karasu entered the duelling ring, Yamada could see Kyoumi and Hitomi tense up a little. But Karasu himself looked perfectly at ease, the wide ‘wings’ of his black kataginu making him seem crow-like. After him and Tetsu bowed, it was over in a flash. Yamada barely saw Karasu move, let alone see his sword. All she saw was part of Tetsu’s sleeve fall to the ground, brown against the white snow, his sword barely out of its saya. Tetsu bowed as the crowd applauded, a little more enthusiastic than before. Yamada quickly glanced at the Shogun, just as Kano turned and left, his face unreadable. There was a few minutes break, some people sitting down stood to stretch their legs, Kousuda poured more tea. Then the sound of the taiko drums summoned everyone back to their seats, and as the Imperial Herald announced the arrival of the Emperor, they all bowed low. When they were permitted to rise again, Yamada took a good look at the changed composition of the Chosen. Yasuki Makoto had stepped in to the position of Imperial Chancellor after Toku Hikaru’s unexpected death. Susumu Kuroko, the daughter of Susumu himself, was now Imperial Advisor. The duelling ring was purified again. Karasu and Yamase bowed formally to the Emperor, making solemn oaths to carry out the duel with the honours traditions of iaijutsu handed down from Kakita himself. They were then permitted to make one final display of arms before the duel would commence. Karasu took out a silk scarf, a bright blue. He tossed it in the air and with a blur of steel it lay in eight pieces on the ground. Yamase’s demonstration was different. Five thin steel plates were brought out by attendants and lined up in a row. She bowed, swung her sword slowly to warm up, just touching the first plate, then with a single slash of her sword cut through all five of them. Strength against speed, though Yamada, it never changes. They then took up stances in the duelling ring, bowing formally to each other. Between the two there was no certainty how the duel could turn out. Then, to the astonishment of everyone, Yamase broke her stance. She stepped forward and spoke to Karasu who then broke his. They spoke for a moment, Yamase seeing to argue while Karasu kept shaking his head. There was a little confusion from the crowd about this. The two then seemed to come to some agreement. Yamase stepped back, drew her sword and angled it out in a salute. She then bowed low, like a vassal to a superior. A loud gasp of astonishment went through the crowd. Kousuda stared in shock. “She…concedes?” Kyoumi nodded quietly as if she knew this was going to happen all along. The realisation of this took a few minutes to full hit Yamada, even when Karasu was kneeling before the Emperor and making the oath and receiving the Armour and Sword of Emerald Champion. When this was over and the Emperor and Empress had left, many came forward to congratulate Karasu and probably ask him for favours. Yamada hung back, only pleased that not only was she there to witness this moment, but Harun was there as well.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Dec 19, 2017 0:16:55 GMT 10
Court was abuzz with what happened at the tournament according to Kousuda. Kakita Karasu was not the first to win the position of Emerald Champion by his opponent conceding, this had happened fifty years previously with Shosuro Jimen, but the rather dishonourable circumstances around it had been revealed much later. Kousuda had been inspired to paint something on this for the art exhibition that was coming up at court and he spent many evenings on it. He was home a lot more in the evenings to be with Kyoumi, his subordinates taking over a lot of his duties. The midwife Kokoro had confessed to Yamada that she was concerned about Kyoumi’s pregnancy and felt confining her to bedrest would be perhaps safest for mother and baby. It was a bit sad to Yamada that Kyoumi accepted this with little complaint. The pregnancy was a real trial on her body, in contrast to Yamada’s which had been far less taxing. Kyoumi had also told Yamada that se=he was determined to have more children, and with Kokoro predicting a possibly difficult labour and birth… She has courage, thought Yamada with some admiration, and she will need it. Late one evening, Yamada came across Kousuda finishing his painting. It was of the exact moment that Yamase had conceded, painted in the traditional old Rokugani style. Yamase was depicted bowed, he sword behind her in a salute. Karasu stood across from her, his head slightly inclined to accept Yamase’s submission. Behind them in the background, were the stands filled with the people of the court, the Emperor and Empress in the centre, solemn and splendid in their majesty. Looking through the stands, Yamada could see Arami, Kousuda, Kyoumi…and herself with Harun cradled in her arms. “What do you think?” Kousuda asked. “It should be exhibited in the exhibition tomorrow.” “I like it,” said Yamada. “Could I possibly have a copy?”
She brought the painting down to Karasu at the Legion barracks a few days later. After the ritual offerings and refusals, Yamada unrolled it on the table between them. Karasu looked at it for a long time. “Yamada, you really didn’t have to do this,” said Karasu. “You have done so much already…” “I know, but I wanted to,” she said. “Besides, its not just for you.” She looked down at Harun, he was lying on the blanket like he always did when Yamada brought him to visit. This time he was playing with some large cloth-covered beads on a string. It was sentimental, it was silly, but it was a little way she could leave some of herself for Harun. At least, before he could be told the truth. “There’s something I wanted to ask you, Karasu-ue,” said Yamada. “What was it that you and Yamase spoke about?” “At the tournament?” Karasu asked. “Well…” He trailed off for a moment, remembering. “She told me she was conceding, and I told her not to.” Yamada stared at him. “Why?” Karasu frowned at her. “I think you know, why,” he said. Yamada nodded, of course Karasu wanted to win it in his own right. It had been more or less handed to him a year ago, not that he didn’t deserve it. “She has her own destiny to follow,” Yamada said. “And until then…” “It will be you?” he finished. Yamada nodded. Karasu sighed. “Yamada, this must be very hard for you. I’ve seen it for myself. If there is anything that I can do…” Yamada shook her head. “You are doing it already,” she said. “We all know what we need to do, but that doesn’t make it an easier.” Karasu nodded silently. Like Kyoumi, he had seen Yamada at her most vulnerable. Right after Nakura’s death a year ago. There was more too, his patience with training her for the duel to the death that never happened, and then when she had gone to him first proposing her plan to have him named Emerald Champion. Could there have been something more between them than the ties of friendship and duty? Perhaps, if events had gone a little differently. It was impossible to tell; and it was pointless to speculate. There came a knock on the door. “I should go,” said Yamada, getting to her feet. The door opened and she turned to see who it was. She froze. “Moto Taigo-sama.” She made a low bow. Taigo raised a bushy eyebrow. “Utaku Yamada-san,” he said, giving her a bow that was slightly lower than would have been due to her status compared to his. “I have been meaning to meet you, this battlemaiden I keep hearing about. He handed a scroll to Karasu. “The news you have been waiting for, Karasu-ue,” he said, then turned back to Yamada with an intriguing look. “Would you mind if I borrowed her a moment?” “Of course,” said Karasu. “But…Harun…” She looked down to see him fast asleep on the blanket. “He should be fine here until you get back,” said Karasu. “If he wakes, I’ll tell you.”
As they walked alongside the training yard, the stories Yamada’s father Harun had told her came back. The Khan’s March on Toshi Ranbo under Taigo’s father Chagatai. Her father had been a young man there, just a gunso in the Khol, but he had told her of him. We would have followed him to Jigoku itself, he had said to her. And now she was here with his son Taigo, a legend in his own right. He had formed the Last Legion from nothing to start his own war on the Onyx Empire. And we took that away from him, Yamada thought with a little guilt. The training yard was full of people practicing with wooden weapons under the watchful eye and harsh voice of the drill instructor. They stopped for a moment, Taigo watching them with a satisfaction. “New recruits, Moto-sama?” Yamada asked. Taigo nodded. “Most of them came in since the tournament.” He looked across at Yamada. “And able to give themselves.” She almost smiled. The Last Legion had been founded as a refuge that would accept anyone as a recruit, peasant or samurai. But this had had to end when it became the Imperial Legion, and it had been a rather heated meeting in Yamada’s yurt when that had been decided. “Hikahime told you, did she Moto-sama?” Yamada asked. “Hikahime told me a lot of things, Utaku-san,” said Taigo. “How you saved her life, even going before the Emperor himself. How you convinced the Lion Clan to support the Legion.” He looked at her again. “For someone who is not a courtier, you certainly made a name for yourself in the courts.” He gave a slight nod, a sign of respect. “Thank you, Moto-sama,” she said, feeling herself blush under his praise. “But I would not have done that without the help I had, particularly Doji Arami.” “Of course,” said Taigo. “But you are the one whose name I keep hearing.” The continued to walk, and Yamada knew she had to say something about the guilt that plagued her. “Moto-sama I…wanted to apologise to you,” she said. “What was done, the deals we made to make the Legion legitimate…I have felt badly about it ever since and wished it could have been different.” Taigo stopped, stared straight through her as if he could read her thoughts. “Is that regret in your voice, Utaki-san?” Yamada flinched a little, she felt like she was a child again and her father had called her into the carpet for something she had done. “I…hope not, Moto-sama,” she said. “But what was necessary to get the Legion recognised, we had to support Shogun Akodo Kano-sama over yourself, who had founded the Legion…” Taigo shook his head. “That matters little now, Utaku-san,” he said. “Look at where we are, look at what has happened. The Legion started as it did because that was what it needed to be…now that it has been officially recognised it will need to be something else. And as for Kano…” He frowned and shook his head again. “That was bound to be a problem no matter how you set up that shogi board. Spare yourself any grief on my part, Utaku-san, I am pleased that it was done at all.” But there was one last thing on her conscience. “And Akodo Dairoku-sama?” Yamada asked. “I...I know it seems as if I used her to get the Lion back to the negotiating table, but my support for her as Shogun was genuine.” “Cast that out too,” Taigo said. “And Dairoku, she lives still, and free of the taint still. Rest your mind on her, she does her duty for her clan and the Legion as a Deathseeker.” They walked along in silence for a few more minutes. “Getting the Lion to move, that sounds like a battle in itself,” said Taigo. “Chinua said there was a story behind that, but he didn’t have time to tell me when I saw him. Could you tell it?” “Of course, Moto-sama,” said Yamada. She told him the whole story, right from her handshake with Akodo Kibo, to the disagreements on the dais among the Chosen. Taigo listened eagerly, laughing at intervals. “It’s better than I thought,” said Taigo with a grin. They had come to the other side of the courtyard, to the exterior wall of the barracks where the snow was rutted under the archways from all the comings and goings. “There’s another reason I wanted to speak with you, Utaku-san,” Taigo said. “I would have sent for you had I not seen you there. You have talent and experience; such things should be encouraged.” “Thank you, Moto-sama,” said Yamada. “I want to offer you the chance to be the Legion’s voice in the Imperial Court,” said Taigo. “But...surely there is someone better trained than me,” said Yamada. “Better than someone who can stand up before the entire court the day after her husband was killed in front of her?” Taigo challenged. “No, I think you best, Utaku-san. The Legion will need a clear honest voice in the months to come, and you have more than proved yourself.” Just like with Ide Toboku, Yamada was presented with an irresistible chance to serve her clan. This time to stay in Otosan Uchi, have Harun close to her and Kyoumi and Yukari close by. But she had given Michio her word… “Moto-sama, you honour me with this,” she said. “But I am afraid I cannot accept, I have been offered the command of the Fourth Utaku Battlemaiden Legion.” “Well, I can’t compete with that,” said Taigo with a sigh. “Your own command, I can understand the allure.” His face was unreadable as they walked back. But all Yamada could think of was that she lied to him. She had lied to Chagatai’s son. She had lied to one of her heroes.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Dec 19, 2017 14:07:46 GMT 10
Little update to show a little something happening...
It was New Year’s Eve and the households of Otosan Uchi were alive with the flurry of cleaning. Kyoumi’s house was more exception, Sumiko and Izumi busy most of the day. Wanting to get out of their way, Yamada sat with Kyoumi. Usually Kyoumi would read of dictate letters, but today she did none of these things and, instead making light conversation. But Yamada knew there was something was wrong, and she was trying to distract herself. “Kyoumi,” said Yamada carefully. “There’s something wrong, isn’t there? Please, tell me.” Kyoumi shook her head. “It’s nothing, Yamada,” she said, trying to brighten her voice. “I’m just tired…” “No,” said Yamada seriously. “There’s something wrong, isn’t there? It’s too early for anything to be happening.” Kyoumi didn’t answer, but for a moment she let her on slip and Yamada could see how much pain she was in. Great Fortunes help us… “Izumi!” Yamada shouted. “Run and fetch the midwife!” Izumi poked her head around the door. “Is it time, Utaku-sama?” “Just go,” said Yamada.
The last day of the Imperial Winter Court was always a busy one, the clan delegations making their reports as well as trying to get in any last minute petitions. Kakita Kousuda was watching the Spider delegation make their report, trying to keep his attention focused but it was difficult. A servant came in, going straight to Kousuda. The servant bowed low and whispered in Kousuda’s ear. Kousuda’s face went white, the fears he had been nursing were now realised. He quickly excused himself, making the appropriate bows to the dais but once out of the throne room he abandoned all appearance of propriety and ran out of the palace. He was running so fast he barely noticed the emerald green gauntlet that intercepted him. “Ide!” Kousuda looked up to see Karasu, resplendent in his emerald green and gold armour. But in Karasu’s eyes he saw a mirror of the same fear that filled his own heart. Karasu put a hand on his shoulder. “Be loud,” he said. “She needs to know you are there for her.” Kousuda nodded. Karasu let him past and Kousuda took off at run.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Dec 24, 2017 16:34:02 GMT 10
Kokoro had come promptly, but Izumi’s search for a shugenja fruitless as all seemed to be attending to the rituals of the New Year. So Yamada told the girl to sit in front of the gate and wait until she saw a shugenja walk past. Once in the birthing room, Kokoro took charge. She bade her apprentice Nibui to make a calming tea and then had Yamada sit by Kyoumi and rub her back. The midwife was all calmness and reassurance with Kyoumi, but was also worried. Yamada noticed how serious Kokoro was, with none of the usual jokes. After examining Kyoumi, she and her apprentice had a quick consultation in the corner. Kyoumi showed great strength in keeping her composure though she was clearly in a lot of pain. “Kyoumi, you don’t have to keep quiet if you don’t want to,” said Yamada. “It’s not weakness, I won’t judge you.” Kyoumi shook her head, and when the pain ended she explained it all to Yamada. “I need to keep quiet, my…my cries could summon the spirits of those babies who died at birth…they would take mine away from me.” Yamada had never thought the Crane particularly superstitious, but she also knew now was not the time to question anything. Kokoro came over, her voice all gentleness. “My dear, it does look as if baby is on the way, but we need to help baby a little.” She smiled reassuringly at Kyoumi. “We will need to turn baby around.” A flicker of worry crossed Kyoumi’s face. “Turn?” Kokoro nodded. “Once baby is at the door, hopefully things will go smoother. Are you ready?” Kyoumi nodded mutely. Kokoro then helped Kyoumi onto her back and then directed Yamada to sit beside Kyoumi’s head and hold her hands firm. The midwife then took out a wooden rod out of her bag, wrapped a cloth around it then offered it to Kyoumi to bite down. “No,” said Kyoumi softly. “I won’t need it.” Kokoro looked as if she might argue, but decided not to. Throughout it, Yamada watched Kyoumi’s face, her eyes focused on the Crane girl’s. Yamada could see the strain there, the strength she showed in trying to cry out. But it proved to much, Kyoumi made a low moan, like a wounded animal. Something else was happening, there seemed to be a little wind in the room as if someone had opened a window. Nibui, who was assisting Kokoro, looked around worriedly. And then they heard shouts, screaming from the next room. The sound of a man trying to shout as loud as he could. Kyoumi stopped moaning, the ghost of a smile on her face. “He’s here,” she said. Yamada nodded. That was clearly Kousuda, his shouts to try and divert the attention of the souls of the deceased children Kyoumi had been wary of. “Just a little longer, my dear,” said Kokoro, her voice a little strained. Knowing Kousuda was there gave Kyoumi the strength she needed. When the baby turned inside her, all she made was a soft cry. “Well done, my dear!” said Kokoro, smiling at Kyoumi. “Baby is at the door, and soon we may…oh yes, the little one is starting to show themselves…” But Kyoumi had passed out from the pain. She didn’t hear Kokoro, or notice the water that was leaking from her womb. Yamada sponged Kyoumi’s face with a wet cloth until she opened her eyes. Then she and Kokoro helped Kyoumi onto her knees. “I did this for you,” said Kyoumi, her voice barely a whisper, her smile faint. “You did,” replied Yamada. “And now I will be with you, Kyoumi, when you become a mother.”
By Kyoumi’s baby took its time being born. Noon turned to afternoon, to evening. Kyoumi finding her ordeal so exhausting that they laid her on her back again to try and get her to rest. And throughout all that day she was so quiet, barely making a sound. Harun had to be brought in a few times so Yamada could feed him, and several times she had to leave the birthing room so she could tend to her son’s needs. It was during one of these times in the early evening that Arami returned. His on was perfect, his greeting conventional. But Yamada see the concern in his eyes. Yamada knew what he wanted to hear and how much she needed to say. “She is doing well, and she’s very brave,” Yamada told Arami. “But there are…difficulties.” Arami’s perfect on faltered a little. Yamada smiled at him reassuringly. “She had courage, Arami,” Yamada said. “Have faith in her, I do.”
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Dec 25, 2017 7:45:49 GMT 10
Merry Christmas everyone! And here is your present, Arahime’s birth.
Hours later, in the small hours of the morning, Kokoro and Yamada pulled Kyoumi back onto her knees. So tired was Kyoumi that she leaned all her weight on Yamada. Yamada took the weight gladly, she had the strength. The night had been long and difficult, dawn was but a few hours away, and there were still concerns. Concerns they all shared now after such a long and difficult labour. “You have shown such courage, Kyoumi,” said Yamada, looking into her eyes. “This is a battle, and you have fought so bravely. Just a little longer.” Kyoumi nodded mutely, far too exhausted to care. Her face was pale, her hair matted and wet with sweat. She looked so removed from her usual self. The pains came again and Kyoumi stiffened in Yamada’s arms, the composure melting away from her as she started to cry out. Low and soft at first, then loud and shrill like the tearing of paper. They could also hear Kousuda’s voice, hoarse from the long night of shouting. Then another voice started to shout with him. Was that Arami? But Yamada didn’t have time to think further on that. The wind in the room had picked up again, gentle at first and then with the force of a gale, cold and icy. It picked up papers from Kyoumi’s desk, scattering them like fallen leaves in the autumn. It knocked over lamps, putting them out and scattering shadows on the wall. It picked up heavier objects too, several paper weights throwing themselves through the shoji screens or smashing themselves on the floor. Yamada used her body to shelter Kyoumi from the broken glass. Nibui screamed, hiding in a far corner with her hands over her ears and even Kokoro looked a bit worried. But Kyoumi was removed from it all, deep in the pain she was in, crying most pitifully almost like a child. It made the whole scene quite surreal. Yamada was a worried as well, there was clearly something at work here, but she did not have time to worry. She kept her head, talking constantly to Kyoumi in a steady, clear voice. Telling stories from her childhood, half-remembered tales that she was surely getting the details wrong…anything to distract Kyoumi from what was happening. The pain then passed, Kyoumi went limp again, gasping for air. While Yamada got her water, Kokoro examined her. The wind had dropped a little, but it was still a little breezy. “My dear, the baby is at the door,” said Kokoro. “When the pains come again, you will need to push. Push with all of your strength.” Yamada smiled at her. “Kyoumi, soon you will have your child in your arms!” said Yamada brightly. “I…I can’t…” wept Kyoumi. “You can, you must!” said Yamada, staring deep into Kyoumi’s eyes. “You’re Kakita Kyoumi, you come from the line of Masarugi that goes all the way to the first Kenshinzen. This is a legacy that you will pass on, today, when you hold your child in your arms. You are strong and brave, Kyoumi, do not let this defeat you.” Kyoumi fought, opening her mouth to scream but all that came out was a whimper. She crushed Yamada’s hands with the effort. “I can see the little one’s head,” said Kokoro. She was squatting just behind Kyoumi, ready to catch the baby. “One more push, my dear.” Kyoumi shook her head, seeming to fight Yamada. But she found the strength, somehow, screaming with the effort as the wind picked up again and tore at their faces. “There’s the little one!” cried Kokoro with joy. “A girl, my dear, and a beauty!” Kyoumi collapsed in Yamada’s arms, exhausted, weeping tears. Yamada waited for the cry, but it did not come. “Let me see her,” pleaded Kyoumi. “In a moment, my dear,” said Kokoro, oddly calm. Over Kyoumi’s shoulder, Yamada could see the midwife frantically working over the baby, trying to get her to breathe. She was so small, barely bigger than a kitten. “I want to see my baby!” shrieked Kyoumi. “There’s…there’s something wrong…isn’t there?” Before anyone could answer, Izumi burst into the room. She threw herself on the floor. “Ashahina Inone, mina-samas!” she shouted. “I am sorry for the delay!” But no one paid her any mind, even the shugenja who wasted no time and went right to Kokoro. Yamada saw Inone and the midwife work together, all pretence and rank forgotten between them, as they worked to save the newborn. Yamada watched them with bated breath, this was what Kyoumi had feared. Yamada’s own mother had lost babies at birth, she didn’t want such a terrible thing to happen to her friend. A rush of wind, strong and warm, blew into the room. And then the sound they had been waiting to hear, a baby’s cry. Yamada wept tears of joy. “You are a mother, Kyoumi!” Inone came forward with the baby wrapped in a soft white blanket, placing her in her mother’s arms. She was very small, with a soft bluish tinge around her mouth. She had soft black curly hair. “Your daughter, Kakita-san,” she said, her own eyes wet with tears. Kyoumi opened her arms to receive her, holding her newborn daughter while Yamada supported her. Kyoumi’s face shined with the glow of new motherhood, her exhaustion completely forgotten. “The air kami love her, Kakita-san,” Inone explained. “That was why they were angry before. But they will keep her safe now, help her breathe. Kyoumi said nothing, not even looking up as she was moved back into bed and cleaned up. There was nothing else in the world for her.
The sun was rising when Yamada left the birthing room, she was tired as well but put all of that aside now. She went to Arami’s room and knocked on the door. “Come in,” said a voice. Yamada entered to see two tired-looking unshaven men. Arami sitting quietly composed, but Kousuda got to his feet and grabbed Yamada’s arm. “How is she? Tell me she is fine!” he pleaded. Yamada shook her head, throwing him off. “She is fine, Kousuda…and your new daughter.” Kousuda’s mouth dropped open. “I have a daughter?” He gave a loud shout of joy. Yamada nodded. “My most heartiest blessings,” she said, warmly shaking his hand. Kousuda stood stuck to the spot, scarcely daring to speak. “Well, go on, you big idiot!” Yamada pushed him out of the room. “She is waiting to see you!” She was left alone with Arami who taken the news most calmly. “It is a most happy day,” he said with a rare smile. “It is,” said Yamada, kneeling down beside him. It would be a month before Arahime was officially named, and by then Yamada would be gone. But Kyoumi had told her the name they had chosen if they had had a daughter. Arahime, it meant “wild princess” and was also a tribute to Arami himself.
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Jan 1, 2018 21:31:22 GMT 10
Happy New Year every one! The nest few hours will bring the final two updates.
Arahime’s breathing was due to a friendly kami that had decided to ‘adopt’ Kyoumi. It was named Awa, and hovered around the newborn like a cloud. Kyoumi told her all this several days later when she had rested more, but she wasn’t sure what had happened in the birthing room that night. “I suppose Kozan-sama will want to look into it when I return to my duties once my confinement is over,” she said. “Kyoumi, don’t expect too much of yourself,” Yamada said gently. “You have been through a great ordeal, you need to rest.” Kyoumi smiled quietly. “I said the same to you,” she said. “And that is how I know it’s right,” countered Yamada. They both laughed. Yamada sighed. There was something natural and easy about them sitting there, sharing tea. Yamada holding her son, Kyoumi holding her daughter. They could be anywhere in Rokugan, two young women talking about their children, their husband, the weather… If it were like that, we would have been happier, thought Yamada, we would not have these duties hanging over our heads. “May I hold her, Kyoumi?” Yamada asked, sitting Harun next to her. Kyoumi nodded and handed Arahime over wrapped in a blanket. Yamada took the baby in her arms, holding her low so Harun could look. “This is Arahime-chan, Harun-kun,” said Yamada. “Isn’t she pretty?” Harun had a look for a minute and then crawled off to look at something else. Yamada only laughed and had a closer look at the baby, peeling away the blanket a little. Arahime’s eyes were shut tight, Yamada could feel the soft breeze of the air kami that helped her breathe. “She’s beautiful, Kyoumi,” said Yamada. There was a small ache inside her, that knowledge that she would never have a daughter of her own. She and Nakura had spoken of it, but there would be no child of her body to pass on the traditions of the Shiotome. No daughter to wield the blade Kyokan that had once been Yamada’s mother’s. Yamada looked at Arahime closely. “Kyoumi, where is her hair?” Beneath her wraps, Yamada could tell the newborn was bald. “It fell out last night,” Kyoumi said. “It happened while Kousuda gave Arahime her bath.” “Is that…a worry?” Yamada asked. Kyoumi shook her head. “The shugenja Inone said that It happens sometimes. Her hair will grow back.” Yamada handed Arahime back to Kyoumi. “I…I wanted to thank for having me here, Kyoumi,” she said. “Letting me stay here in your home, all that you have done…” “It is I who should be thanking you, Yamada,” said Kyoumi. “You being here has been such a help and comfort.” Yamada smiled. “You are a true friend, Kyoumi.” Kyoumi took a sip of tea. “I guess with spring here, you will be leaving us soon.” Yamada nodded. “As soon as the thaw comes, I gave Michio my word.” Kyoumi nodded Mutely, holding Arahime a little tighter. “I did not realise then how difficult it would be,” said Yamada, smiling as she watched Harun investigate a pile of blankets. “Don’t ever think that he won’t know you,” said Kyoumi. “He will, we will all make sure when the time comes.”
In the next few days Arami left. His house was ready and no sooner than that then he had to leave it. He was hoping to cover more ground this year, and wished Yamada well before he rode off with his small party. Yamada didn’t tell him where she was going or why, she wasn’t sure she could explain it properly and he would find out anyway. After Arami left, Yamada began to make preparations. First Kokoro found a wet nurse for her and then the midwife helped Yamada with the weaning. Harun didn’t seem to mind after a while, but it was a stab to Yamada, not just preparing for the future but removing their closeness. She then went through her possessions, putting them away in a patterned lacquered box for Karasu to hold in trust until Harun came of age. There was her papers, an assortment of documents from the court last year: drafts of the Last Legion Treaty, wedding invitations, letters between her and Nakura. With them she put in her wedding kimono, the sandalwood fan Nakura had given her, the purple and blue kimono she had given him as a wedding present. She kept the origami Crane netsuke, his gift to her. On the top she put in the scroll that was Yamase’s gift to Harun, next to it a letter from Yamada to Harun once he came of age. Then locked the box tight. She then wrote a letter to Nakura’s sister Momoibura, telling everything she could about her and Nakura’s brief courtship and marriage and what their hopes had been. She also explained her reasons for Harun’s care, for his own protection in case there were any still angry at Nakura might go after his son. I do not wish for my son to not know of his Yasuki heritage, Yamada wrote, but hopefully there will be a time where you can tell him yourself more about who he is. The next day she went to the Crab Embassy where Yamase was staying, but was directed to the Legion barracks. So she went down there, with Harun in his sling as Yamada didn’t want to be parted form him any more than necessary. When she arrived she was directed to the dojo, where she came upon Yamase and Karasu sparring. They didn’t see her, so she quietly waited. And they were going fast, the bokkens clashing each constantly, the advantage going back and forward. Karasu’s attack was swift and elegant, Yamase’s strong and efficient. Karasu attacked, his bokken arcing perfectly through the air as it came towards Yamase. Yamase stood firm, her bokken in a guard position. So firm was her defence that Karasu’s bokken shattered on impact, shards of wood exploding everywhere. There was a long silence as two looked at each other. “So that’s why?” Karasu asked. Yamase nodded, then they both turned to Yamada. “How much did you see?” Karasu asked her, the edges of his mouth twitching into a grin. “Enough,” said Yamada. “I am glad I found you, Yamase, I knew you would be leaving soon.” “And you too?” Yamase asked. Yamada nodded. “There’s a lot we need to talk about.”
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Post by Hida Tetsuko on Jan 1, 2018 23:20:09 GMT 10
This is the last Chapter of Birds in their Nests, a very different story that looks at a very different side of Rokugan. A story that I am very proud to have written. Thank you all for your patience with my posts, and I hope I have done justice to how it should be.
Will there be more after this? The answer is yes, but in it's own good time.
Karasu’s quarters were in the process of being packed up in anticipation of the Legion moving off. There was a subdued mood as Karasu made tea, making small talk about his plans for the spring. “Hitomi has gone ahead to Shiro Yogashi,” said Karasu. “There’s probably a lot to do to make it habitable. Next winter we all of us be there.” “All”. That referred to Harun as well. Usually that would pain Yamada, but she had prepared herself., put it away from her. The pain was still there, but she could only see it from a distance. “Did you manage to get the aid you needed Yamase?” Yamada asked. Yamase nodded. “From the Mantis and Zogeku,” she said. “Arami was able to secure some deal where the Zogeki paid the taxes they owed by giving aid to the other clans. I will be going ahead, so the ships will be a welcome sight when they arrive.” Yamada took out the letter and gave it to her. “I want you to give this to Momoibura…if you can,” she said, remembering at the last minute that she could be dead. “I…tried to explain everything, but I don’t think I can.” “She will understand more than you think,” said Yamase. “I suppose you will be going to join Michio?” Yamada nodded. “From what little I know of him, he is hard to find when he doesn’t want to be found,” Karasu said. “Not much word gets out of Phoenix lands, even now as the roads are starting to open.” “He will be found when if wants to be found,” Yamase said quietly. “You will find him, Yamada, and when I need to find him I will. I hope it is not too long.” Yamada looked down at Harun where he was sleeping on the Tatami mat between her and Karasu. Perfectly at peace. “I gave Michio my word,” Yamada said. Karasu looked sombre but nodded gravely. A knock at the door disturbed the mood. It was Moto Taigo who opened it, coming in and bowing quickly. “My apologies, Karasu-ue, but this cannot wait,” the Moto said quickly. “A heimin has arrived from Phoenix lands, you need to hear what he has to say.” “Bring him in,” says Karasu. Yamada and Yamase got up to leave but Karasu motioned them to sit. “Stay, if it’s about what I think it is, you’ll want to know about this too as you are both far more involved than I am.” Taigo brought the peasant in, he stood at the door while the peasant fell to his knees and pressed his face to the floor. “You may rise,” said Karasu, his voice taking on an air of authority that Yamada hadn’t heard before. “Tell me your name.” “Atagi, my lord,” said the peasant, rising to his knees and keeping his face lowered. He looked dirty, as if he had travelled a great distance, and nervous. Yamada poured him a cup of tea, he drank it under her reassuring smile. “Now, you have something to tell us, Atagi-san?” Karasu asked. His voice was kinder, but their was still that authority in it. “I come from Shinsetsu Mori, my lord, it is a day’s journey from Kyuden Isawa,” Atagi began. “The village is no more, my lord, not after the Black Hand came.” “The Black Hand?” Yamada asked. “Yes, my lady,” he said. “He is most terrible, dressed in black and has a hand like obsidian that crushes his victims. And he has followers, many of them.” He took a sip of tea with a shaking hand and continued. “Our lords, the Isawa, were in the village. We did not know why as they did not tell us. But the Black Hand found them. He and his followers fought the Isawa, they almost destroyed the village in the battle. Many of us fled, I hid and watched. I saw the Black Hand himself cut down many of my lords, that terrible hand of his protected him from harm.” Yamada pictured it in her mind. Michio, with his hand of obsidian, protected from all that would touch him. “The ones that would not submit were rounded up, with their children,” continued Atagi. “They refused to kneel, so they took the children and killed them where they stood. The Black Hand said it was a mercy.” Yamada shuddered, she knew Michio’s deeds were horrible, but not like this. Karasu looked away but Yamase seemed unaffected. Atagi looked down, roughly wiping away tears. “My apologies, my lord.” “No need,” said Karasu. “What did they do to the rest of the Isawa?” “They killed them,” said Atagi. “And not straight away like the children. First, they cut off their hands and cut out their tongues, the dogs were let loose on their bodies and they died in agony. Their hands and tongues were nailed to board and left for all who came by to see.” Atagi took a few deep breaths, looking down. “Thank you, Atagi-san,” said Karasu. He looked at Taigo. “See that this man and anyone else who came with him is fed and provided for.” He turned back to Atagi. “The Legion could probably use a man like you, one who can observe and report back what he has seen.” Atagi bowed low. “I thank you, my lord.” “Now go, we will talk later,” said Karasu. Taigo took Atagi out, when he had gone Karasu looked between the two women, his face grave. “If this was anyone else, I would stop it,” said Karasu. “I would have to, it would be my duty to. But I can’t, can I?” Yamada shook her head. “Michio’s authority comes from Lord Moon, anyone who goes against him goes against Heaven itself.” She took a deep breath. “I should have been there, I could have saved those children.” “What would you have done?” Yamase asked. “Marched them through the countryside to safety by yourself?” “Yes, if I had to,” said Yamada. “They were innocent, they need not have died.” “This is a war, Yamada,” Yamase said coldly. “Many will die before it is over, even the innocent. You cannot save them all.” “No, but I can save who I can,” said Yamada. She looked down at Harun, he opened his soft brown eyes to look at her, giving her a smile. All she could think of was those children torn from their parent’s arms, slaughtered where they stood. She turned to Karasu. “I will be leaving soon, tomorrow evening. Are you ready?” “Are you?” Karasu asked. Yamada took Harun in her arms, smiling down at him. “No,” she said. “But I need to be.”
Yoru was saddled and readied, Yamada’s box of possessions was secured. Harun’s possessions were packed up as well. The gifts he had been given, blankets, his little clothes. They would all be going with him to his new home and new family. That evening, Yamada made her farewells to Kyoumi and Kousuda. “Thank you for everything you have done,” she said to them. “Your home is the first place that has felt like a home to me in a long time.” “Remember, Yamada, you will always be welcome here,” said Kyoumi. “And we hope Harun will see this as a home as well.” Yamada shook hands with Kousuda, then she embraced him like a brother. Two Unicorns wishing each other farewell. “I’m counting on you to make sure Harun knows how to ride,” she says. Kousuda chuckled. “Of course.” She mounted Yoru and Kousuda passed Harun up to her, securing him in front like how Yamada used to ride with him around Otosan Uchi, like she used to ride with her father. This would be the last time. “Good fortune to you both, always,” she said, blinking back tears. Kousuda and Kyoumi waved as Yamada rode off. Down at the barracks, Karasu was waiting for them. He helped Yamada unload and she went through what she had brought. “The wet nurse will be coming soon, she should be able to explain more to you,” said Yamada. “This bundle is Harun’s things he needs now, the box is for when he makes his gempukku. And this.” She unlooped a cord from around her neck where she kept the amulet Akodo Zetsubou had given her on the last day of court. Amethyst, engraved with the mons of the Unicorn and Crab. She handed it to Karasu. I am glad Zetsubou and Kibo aren’t here, she thought, they may have tried to stop me from what I am about to do. “When it is time to tell Harun about his heritage, how much do you want told?” Karasu asked. “You will know that better than I will,” Yamada replied. “For you will know him.” She looked down at her son, this would be the last time she would hold him in her arms. Would they see each other again? Perhaps, but not like this. His soft brown eyes, so like Nakura’s, watched her with perfect love and trust. Forgive me, my love, for what I am about to do… She held him close to her breast, one last time. She touched his soft, curly hair, one last time. She kissed him gently on the forehead, one last time. Her son, Harun, born of the love that had been between her and Nakura. He had been formed and borne from her body, she had comforted him through the long hours of the night. Her son, Harun, who bore the name of her own father. She placed him in Karasu’s arms. “This is my only son, Utaku Harun, who is all I have left in this world,” she said. “I entrust his care to you.” “I will raise him, and cherish him as if he were my own flesh and blood,” Karasu promised. “He will have my protection, and my name. He will want for nothing.” Yamada nodded. She felt as if her heart was breaking, a piece of her very flesh had been torn from her. Tears could wait, tears were for later. Yamada mounted Yoru. “Take care of the Empire, Karasu,” she said. “Harun, Arahime and all the other children will need a Rokugan to grow up in.” “I will,” Karasu promised. “Yamada, will I see you again?” “Perhaps,” she answered. “There will come a time when you need to find me, you will know when.” As Yamada wheeled Yoru around, Harun started to cry. Each wait was like a stab in the heart to Yamada. He needed comforting, he needed her. She rode off, not looking back. She could still hear Harun’s crying when she left Otosan Uchi, blinking away the tears that fell onto her own face. But she kept riding, urging Yoru to keep going into the night.
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Post by Shinwa on Jan 2, 2018 10:08:41 GMT 10
Congratulations on finishing the story and Thank you for sharing it with us.
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