The Isawa karo speaks firmly, “If anyone has any information about this murder please speak up, the honor of the Phoenix is at stake.”

A stalwart Lion clan samurai Ikoma Katsu speaks, “Hai, Isawa-sama I did see Mirumoto Rai-san leaving Asako-sama’s chambers.  He had a green cloth about his head.  Hida Fuya-san saw it as well.”

Hida Fuya, a stern rugged crab bushi nods, “Hai, I will vouch for Ikoma-san’s testimony.”

Mirumoto Rai arrives just as he hears his name tied to this ghastly murder and protests his innocence, “No!  I could not have done it!”

“Mirumoto-san if you claim innocence, then where were you?” Shiba Reikun scowls, “Answer that!”

The Isawa karo nods glaring at the young Dragon.  Rai-san glances down, “I… I was wandering the halls alone.”

“Did anyone see you?” the Isawa karo demands.

“I don’t think so,” the Dragon bushi replies defeated.

Mayako speaks up having arrived shortly after the Dragon bushi, “That isn’t true Isawa-sama.  Mirumoto Rai-san is innocent he was…” she pauses considering her next words, “he was with Doji Aiko-sama they were together alone in a chamber.  He could not have done this, the two were sharing a passionate moment together as scandalous as that may be.”

There are gasps and whispers and the Phoenix karo frowns.

Mirumoto Rai looks defeated and admits his guilt, “Agasha-san is correct I was alone with Doji Aiko-sama… I was protecting her honor but it seems the Fortunes wish me to suffer for my sins.”

“Calm yourself Mirumoto-san, you do not have to protect me,” Doji Aiko-sama speaks drawing all eyes to her freshly bathed face.  Her kimono clings somewhat scandalously to her slight frame, her hair damp from a warm bath.  The Crane courtier bows her head solemnly, “Isawa Masahiro-sama you have my greatest condolences for this heinous crime but I must correct the details of Agasha-san’s testimony.”

“Please do,” the Isawa karo replies sternly.

“It is true I met in secret with Mirumoto-san but it was no an illicit encounter, we were discussing sensitive diplomatic matters that would further cement our two houses in an alliance.  These matters as you are no doubt aware of require a delicate touch, and secrecy is often the norm as is privacy,” she says with a narrowed glance to Mayako.

Shiatari taking moment to stab at her enemy quips, “Does your husband know about your private meetings?”

“Indeed he does and he approves of them, we serve our clan equally and I would never shame my husband with such shameful acts as Agasha-san has described.  I am sure she merely mistook our private meeting for something far more, it is a forgivable action.  Isawa-sama I apologize for this impertinence and please Mirumoto-san he was only trying to protect me and the honor of his house, he is young and foolish,” Aiko finishes with a respectful bow.

“You have always acted with honor Doji-san and I will accept your testimony,” the karo nods.  He turns to those gathered, “We still must find this murderer and bring him to justice, as I have said before none may leave these premises until we have solved this matter.”

[In the text of the adventure revealing the affair between Rai and Aiko is supposed to end with both seeking seppuku to cleanse their shame.  But my version of Doji Aiko differs considerably from her as written she is a far craftier and more ruthless woman, think Atia from the HBO series Rome.  She is also higher status than the players and was able to use her “honorable” testimony to supersede Mayako’s testimony.  It was an interesting moment and the players incidentally made two enemies in one fell swoop there, although technically Aiko was already Shiatari’s enemy.  It was a fun scene to be sure.  – GM’s note]

Mayako’s mother approaches the samurai-ko gently fanning herself, “The honor of the Phoenix must be upheld, I have offered your services to Isawa Masahiro-sama, Asako Shizu-sama’s karo.  Do everything you can to find this murderer and bring them to justice.  He is expecting you.”

The karo sighs shaking his head sadly as the two samurai-ko enter the late Shizu-sama’s chambers.  His corpse kneeling in front of a tipped over desk with a Dragon marked blade in his back.  Isawa-sama summons an eta, Chop, to assist in the investigation as Mayako and Shiatari examine the scene.  Neither is especially trained in investigation but they find clues easy enough.

Mayako examines the wound and finds that the blade killed the aging Phoenix almost immediately.  Shiatari can see that the strike was done by a well trained hand that knew the right point to strike for the most effect.  Both spot a shred of green cloth in his hands which they command Chop to retrieve for them.

Chop does so and hands it to Mayako who quips, “Curious.”

“Curious, more like suspicious,” Shiatari replies glancing down at the Phoenix corpse.

“He died instantly,” she says dangling the cloth, “so how did this get into his hands?”

“It was planted, obviously,” Shiatari says with a sarcastic tone.

“So you think someone is trying to frame the Dragon?” Mayako questions.

“We can’t assume that yet, this could be misdirection to make us think that the Dragon may not ultimately be involved.  But it is suspicious,” Shiatari quips in thought.

“We need to interview witnesses,” Mayako suggests heading towards the two men who saw ‘Mirumoto Rai’.  Shiatari follows falling in step and behind them the already forgotten eta Chop.

[Neither character is skilled in investigation, but utilizing their knowledge of Kenjutsu, Medicine, and basic Perception they were able to piece together a few clues from a few excellent rolls.  And yes Chop was quickly forgotten, poor guy. – GM-s note]

Ikoma Katsu regards the women with a proper bow, Hida Fuya follows suit though less proper.  Mayako questions them, “We are investigating the murder; you said you saw Mirumoto Rai-san?”

Katsu-san nods, “Yes I thought I saw him leaving Asako-sama’s chambers with a green cloth about his face.  I was sure it was him, perhaps it was?  But who am I to doubt the words of Doji Aiko-sama.”

Shiatari focus on Hida-san, “So you saw him as well?”

“I, I am not sure it was dark but Ikoma-san saw him, it must have been him I suppose.  Why would someone dress up as Mirumoto-san, no man of honor would do such a thing.  It must have been Mirumoto-san or perhaps another Dragon,” Hida-san replies.

“I agree not even the Scorpion are that low,” Ikoma-san responds then clears his throat, “I am sure I saw a Dragon and servants milling about.”

“Servants?” Shiatari says out loud to herself, looking around for the ‘invisible’ servants that scurry about the castle.  She smiles with a bow, “Thank you for your time.”  She motions for Mayako to follow and the two start questioning servants.  After a few inquiries they find a servants that was close to Shizu-sama’s chambers polishing the floor.

The aging man keeps his eyes down to the floor, dressed in simple yet clean clothes.  Shiatari commands, “Did you see anyone going to Asako-sama’s chambers?”

“Great samurai, I am but a humble servant,” the old servant replies.

“Speak,” Shiatari replies coldly.

“I… I did see Shiba Reikun-sama going to Asako-sama’s chambers.  Just before the murder, I swear it is the truth great samurai,” the servant pleads.

Mayako adds, “Are you sure of this?”

“Yes, great samurai,” the servant visibly shakes with fear.

The two turn from the servant without another word and decide to find Shiba Reikun immediately.  Without much recourse the samurai-ko barge into Reikun-san’s quarters shocking the trouble bushi.  Reikun-san glares stammering loudly, “Get out these are my private chambers!”

“We are investigating the murder of Asako-sama, we have reason to believe you may know something of it,” Shiatari replies coolly.

Mayako adds, “What do we do now?”

Reikun seethes, “How dare you, are you accusing me of murder?  I am an honorable servant of Asako-sama!  We all know it was the Dragon, search their chambers!”

Shiatari shrugs then notices Chop, “Chop fetch the karo and his guards, and we will wait here.”

Reikun grimaces, “I will have your heads for this!”

When Isawa-sama arrives the two samurai-ko request to search the room.  Mayako finds trace signs of blood near his bed mat and turns it over to find a bundle of green cloth stained with blood.  Reikun caught red handed throws himself at the feet of his lord and confesses in whole to the murder, much to the shock of everyone in the room.

[I allowed Mayako a Perception + Medicine roll TN 20 and she passed it with ease and discovered the blood.  The jig was up for Reikun and the murder was solved.  – GM’s note]

Isawa-sama seems even more troubled but gives his thanks to Mayako and Shiatari.  Shiba Reikun is hauled away to be held for execution, a somber end to an eventful evening.

Outside the chamber Takeshi is waiting with a smile, “Well that was interesting, I am glad we can put that ugliness behind us.”

“Hopefully it won’t spark any retaliation,” Shiatari adds.

Mayako shrugs not overly concerned, “I wonder why Shiba Reikun did it?”

Takeshi starts walking, “We may never know.  So you two ready for the dance contest tomorrow?”

“You really think the contest will continue after this?” Mayako questions, “Sure why not, it is what Shizu-sama would have wanted probably.  It seems only honorable to finish it.”

“Well in that case, I think I will need some lessons?” Shiatari adds coyly.

“Me too,” Mayako chips in embarrassed.

“Never fear, Takeshi-sensei is here to save the day,” the Sparrow bushi jokes.  He spends the evening showing them many proper dances and instructs them as best as he can to help them in tomorrow’s event.  Both samurai-ko also spend time ‘refreshing’ the finer points of the tea ceremony in anticipation of the final event.

[This gives both characters 2 free raises for the dance competition and the 1 free raise for the Tea Ceremony; they really lack the courtly skills.  – GM’s note]

17^th of the Dragon 1172 IC, Pale Oak Castle, home of Asako Shizu, Phoenix Daimyo

The morning is a somber mood, but the samurai continue with the tournament, beginning with the dance contest.  Doji Aiko-sama goes first and does a traditional dance that is marred by her lack of focus but she performs admirably.  Agasha Mayako-san performs a slow traditional dance that although aesthetically pleasing does not overly impress the judge.  Several more samurai perform admirable if acceptable dances but none standout till Bayushi Shiatari having donned a new mask performs a spectacular dance inspired by the flow of water along her overly long sleeves and grace to accentuate her already practiced maneuvers.  The judge is very impressed.

This act is followed by Himura Natsuko who is wearing a scandalously short kimono, it stops above her knees, and her shoulders and arms are exposed.  The beautiful ronin performs an intense dance inspired the power of the typhoon and a leaf caught in it’s torturous grasp.  The dance titillates and entrances most of the men in the audience as she dances to the high pace of the taiko drums.  In the end she performs quite well and leaves most of her onlookers breathless.

[Shiatari rolled very well and got 4 points total for her display while Mayako rolled poorly and only got 2 points.  Her mother was not overly impressed. – GM’s note]

The final contest is subdued and most of the contestants perform satisfactorily, only one contestant actually broke his tea set and two Unicorn samurai had no idea what they were doing at all.  By the end of the contest the samurai were eager to see how well thy had done and who would be crowned the winner of the contest.

Isawa Masahiro-sama gives a short speech espousing the virtues of peace in light of the heinous murder and then announces that Bayushi Shiatara is the victor.  There is much praise for the Scorpion bushi, especially from Takeshi and Mayako.  Isawa-sama offers her an ancient yet beautiful fan with the Phoenix mon emblazoned on it.  She accepts the gift gracefully after properly refusing it two times.

That evening Takeshi meets his new found friends in the courtyard carrying his travel gear, “It has been a pleasure Mayako-san, Shiatari-san I hope that we cross paths in the future.  Congratulations on your well earned victory as well,” he says with a knowing grin.

Mayako is saddened to see her newfound friend go, “I hope to see you soon as well Takeshi-san.”

“Take care of yourself Takeshi,” Shiatari adds.  With that the young Sparrow bushi turns and sets out upon more adventure, secretly hoping that their paths will once again cross as well.

17^th of the Dragon 1172 IC, Letter to the Emerald Serpent

The murder of Asako Shizu-sama was executed to my satisfaction.  Shiba Reikun will die for his actions but the end result fits my needs.  I will see to it that a more amenable daimyo for our needs will be put into power.  The Dragon cub performed adequately, though his conviction his lacking.  He may not be suitable for further tasks.  I will continue as planned.

Your servant,

Red Blossom Cherry

[This is an interlude hinting at greater things.  – GM’s note]

16^th of the Dragon 1172 IC, Pale Oak Castle, home of Asako Shizu, Phoenix Daimyo

It was three in the morning as Shiatari stood silently outside the Suzume Takeshi’s chamber.  It was rather chill this morning as she waited for her companion to arrive, Mayako was running late.

For Mayako’s sake, she was doing her best to sneak away from her family and thought she was doing well until…

“Where you going?” Sukime whispered following her big sister.

[Mayako failed a Stealth roll and so I decided instead of running into a guard, she would have to deal with her nosy and mischievous little sister, Sukime.  This was fun.  – GM’s note]

“I… Sukime what are you doing here?” Mayako retorts freezing in place.

“I couldn’t sleep,” Sukime shrugs.

“I was going to the… bathroom, go back to sleep Sukime,” the eldest sister urges.

“I can’t I need to go to the bathroom too, and I am scared,” Sukime whines.

Mayako thinks quickly, “What if I tell you a story about the spirit world, will you go back to bed then?”

“I love stories,” Sukime nods; as she listens to her eldest sister relate a thrilling heroic tale about the spirit realms.

[Mayako was quite skilled in this area and rolled very well and was able to avoid having her sister tag along with her. – GM’s note]

Meanwhile Shiatari waits outside the room growing impatient as a patrolling guard happens by.  Thinking quickly and deflecting any notion of wrong doing the Scorpion samurai utilized her more subtle skills to avoid suspicion of wrong doing, in fact she was able to make the guard second guess his own actions and he left her nervous of his own actions.  The ways of the Scorpion are sneaky indeed.

Finally Mayako arrives nearly twenty minutes late and the two samurai-ko discuss the plan and decide that the best bet was for Mayako to sneak in find any poetry, “borrow” it and then return it later once they had memorized suitable works for the contest in the morning.

Mayako sneaks into the chamber silent like the night, where she learned such shameful skills is anyone’s guess, and found a neat stack of papers of various poetry.

[Sadly, I had secretly rolled for Takeshi and he was awake and aware of the samurai-ko, Mayako rolled very well but Takeshi rolled even better… - GM’s notes]

“I hope you find what you are looking for, Mayako-san,” Takeshi speaks with a relaxed tone, “Or did you come here to seduce me in the dark of night?”

Mayako froze, “I… I…”

Hearing the conversation inside, Shiatari enters with a look of concern on her face.  Takeshi lights a lantern and smirks, “If I were a less honorable man I would think you two ladies were here to steal from me.  But I know that two Great Clan samurai like yourselves would never stoop so low.”

“Of course not, we came to see if you could give us more instruction in poetry, Takeshi-san,” Shiatari smiles.

“Well then why all the secrecy,” the Sparrow bushi gestures.

Mayako replies, “We were nervous, neither of us knows very much about poetry we just want to do well in the contest. Right?”

“Of course and maybe with your help, we can work out a deal that will work for everyone,” she purrs her seductive voice trying to draw the young samurai in.

[Bayushi Shiatari has Dangerous Beauty and is skilled in Temptation, but she was unable to tempt the honorable Takeshi, it was close though. – GM’s note]

Takeshi nearly gives in to the wiles of the Scorpion bushi but he stands firm and sees that there is a deal in the making here.  The poet warrior shrugs, “How about we make an exchange, I can help you in the poetry contest and you owe me a favor… I mean the favor of a provincial daimyo’s daughter must be worth something.  It couldn’t hurt at least to have someone like that as a friend.”

Mayako glances away, “What kind of favor?”

“Just a favor to be called in at a later date, I promise it won’t be anything outrageous, just the friendship of a daimyo’s daughter is good enough for me, if you can agree to that then I will do my best to prepare you both for the poetry contest,” Takeshi replies.

“You have a deal only if we do well, Takeshi-san,” Shiatari commands.

“This humble minor clansman will do his best to assist you in your time of need,” Takeshi grins.  The Sparrow bushi ‘instructs’ his newfound allies in the vagaries of poetry, and even gives them poems to use in the contest.

[This gives each of the samurai-ko two free raises on the Poetry contest roll, so even if they fail abysmally they can still save face with a decent poem.  Takeshi will become a useful source of inspiration for the two throughout the contest. – GM’s note]

The first event of the morning is a gift from the Isawa house to all of the samurai clans currently attending the Tournament of Samurai.  The gift will be shared by all them in a pilgrimage and is offered to each participant in kind.  Even the coarse Crab samurai upholds the proper ritual of gift giving… which causes even more shock when Mirumoto Rai does not follow convention and accepts the gift on the first offering.  The room is filled with furtive whispers and glances as the Isawa karo tries to regain his composure.  Mayako though is perceptive enough to notice that something is troubling the young Dragon and he seems conflicted about his actions.

The poetry contest begins quickly to put the ugly events behind the guests and Agasha Mayako is the first to go, her poem is actually well received content wise, but her actual recital was shaky.  She performs admirably but not with much distinction.  Her mother gently fans herself in modest approval, though her face betrays little if any emotion, positive or negative.

Agasha Yoko nudges Mayako as she takes her place by her giant sister’s side, “Well done, it seems your late night adventure was fruitful after all.”

[Mayako rolled poorly and only got the two free raises for two points in this contest.  – GM’s note]

Doji Aiko followed the young Phoenix shugenja with a coy poem that brought blushing cheeks to Mirumoto Rai.  Mayako notices the gentle interplay with some interest.  Aiko-sama is followed by Himura Natsuko a ronin bushi attached to the Dragon clan; she gives a fairly dark poem about death that seems to unsettle the judge.  The beautiful ronin smiles at the end of her poem and then takes her place at Mirumoto-san’s side.

Bayushi Shiatari gives her poem, and recites it perfectly just as Takeshi instructed her and impresses the judge quite well.  She is followed by Suzume Takeshi who does an equally beautiful job with his original poem.  Shiba Reikun, a Phoenix bushi that follows the Sparrow warrior fails to impress.

[Shiatari rolled well and with the two free raises she gains 3 total points from the poetry contest. – GM’s note]

Strangely Mirumoto Rai tries to avoid giving a poem but is finally coerced and gives a solid if not terribly impressive haiku that Mayako recognizes is a love poem.  She glances at Aiko-sama and senses that something scandalous could be brewing but keeps it to herself.  The rest of the gathered samurai perform admirably but not with much distinction and it is obvious that many are ill prepared for these less martial pursuits.  Asako Shizu-sama seems to be greatly enjoying putting these young samurai to test and watches with great interest.

The painting contest begins shortly after the poetry contest.  Shiatari, Mayako, Takeshi and Aiko-sama all set up near each other set to work trying to produce something worthwhile.  Doji Aiko-sama tries to strike up a pleasant but tense conversation with Shiatari but the two women end up exchanging veiled threats followed by outright insults by the young Bayushi.  Aiko finishes her piece quickly and leaves their presence.

Bayushi-san smiles to herself, feeling smug and superior.  She finishes her work, a piece depicting sunset with a lone samurai standing on a stone before a waterfall.  A scorpion sits on another stone in the middle of the stream next to a swimming frog.  The piece is well received and the Scorpion bushi is lauded.

Mayako created a simple scene of a tree with falling leaves on the wind, a striking piece that also impressed the judges.  Her mother fans herself gently but her overall disposition seems pleased though not overly so.  The young Phoenix spends her time admiring the other works and finds surprising details that are missed by others; a sparrow’s nest in a piece about the Kaiu wall and the hordes of the Sahdowlands.  In particular she spots a beautiful woman in Mirumoto Rai’s artwork and immediately glances to Aiko-sama who seems quite impressed.  The wheels continue turning.

[I allowed the characters to draw their pieces of artwork, they both made sketches and I gave them three free raises for doing so, neither rolled well and so they got three points each.  They both enjoyed this and I would recommend encouraging this as well. – GM’s note]

The competing samurai have a sumptuous dinner feast and relax from a day of contests.  Takeshi offers his new friends some tea he brewed, both were reluctant to try, still thinking he had ill born intentions but they relent and find that his tea is especially delicious.  Takeshi jokes, “I am glad that both of you turned out such excellent haiku today, I must find out where you both get your inspiration.”

Mayako seems distracted though especially after seeing Mirumoto Rai disappear followed by Doji Aiko-sama.  The young Phoenix excuses herself and follows the Crane courtier, but is easily spotted as Aiko slips out the bath of the bath house.  The scorpion stays and entertains Takeshi-san and Sukime who joins them.

Aiko turns flustered, “Agasha-san, are you lost?”

“Umm, I was trying to find the bath house?” Mayako answers, perhaps too quickly.

“You just passed it, shall I show you?” the Crane replies feigning help.

“Oh no I can find it from here,” Mayako turns and goes back to the bath house waiting for the Crane to continue on her way.  Aiko takes a moment and then continues on her way, Mayako follows once again utilizing her shameful skills in stealth, this time without being noticed.

She discovers that the young Mirumoto Rai and Doji Aiko are involved in a shameful tryst in an empty chamber.  She grins mischievously wondering how she can use this new found information to her advantage.

Meanwhile the Isawa karo and four Shiba bushi make their way through the feast hall catching Bayushi-san’s attention.   She stands to follow, Sukime and Takeshi following suit.  Their destination is clear to the private chambers of Asako Shizu-sama.  The four bushi stand outside the chamber doors while the karo enters.  A crowd is now forming at the commotion, trying their best to see what is going on.

The karo returns from the inner chamber with a look of horror on his face, He does his best to maintain his face and speaks, “I regret to announce that something shameful and terrible has occurred.  Our great lord, Asako Shizu-sama, daimyo of this mighty province ahs been slain in cold murder.  We have reason to suspect that his murderer may still be here within the castle, so regretfully I must request that none may leave until we find his murderer.  No servant of the Empress deserves such an ignoble death.”

The crowd of samurai was abuzz with activity, samurai from various clans all across the empire milled about in conversation.  Amidst the crowd was Bayushi Shiatari looking painfully out of place and hoping to stay unnoticed as she tried to find Agasha Ayame, husband to her new lord and master for the next year or so.

“Excuse me lady?” a young girl’s voice called up to her, tugging on her kimono sleeve.

Shiatari glances down, her scorpion styled mask, covering the upper part of her face.  She sighs inwardly and replies tersely, “Leave me alone, child.”

“Are you a Scorpion?” the little girl asks.

“Yes, now leave me alone,” Shiatari hisses.

“Why are Scorpion so mean?  Are you a mean lady?  What is your name?  My name is Sukime, nice to meet you,” the little girl replies with a sweet smile.  She is a pretty young girl with fine features and a mischievous energetic nature.

Shiatari tries to look away, “You don’t need to know my name.”

“Sukime-chan, you shouldn’t run off like that,” Agasha Mayako shouts as she finally catches up to her younger sister.

“She won’t tell me her name, why is she being so mean big sister?” Sukime asks.

“It isn’t polite to bother strangers, Sukime, you know that,” Mayako speaks with an exasperated tone.

“Well she won’t tell me her name that’s rude,” Sukime pouts.

“My name is Bayushi Shiatari,” the Scorpion bushi speaks with a resigned sigh.

“Hi Shiatari-chan, nice to meet you, your pretty,” Sukime grins.

Mayako sends her younger sibling back to her mother and converses with the Scorpion bushi briefly about the Tournament, both eager to show their martial skills and bring honor to their respective clans.  In the midst of their conversation another bushi approaches, Suzume Takeshi of the Sparrow clan.  He is a handsome young poet warrior with the hair the shocking color of the sun, and an easy going attitude that seems at odds with many of the samurai currently gathered.

Takeshi introduces himself with a bow and a smile.  Initially both of the young samurai-ko are apprehensive of his motives but they warm up to the warrior poet quickly.  Takeshi grins as gestures at a Doji courtier, “Now this is just gossip of course but I hear that Doji Aiko-sama lost a son a few years ago to illness, and now many say that her house is cursed since has yet to produce another child.  I had no expected to see someone of his status here, interesting.”

[I was bringing in Shiatari’s Sworn Enemy disadvantage, Doji Aiko. –GM’s note]

Shiatari quips, “That isn’t what I heard.”

“Really Bayushi-san and what have you heard?” Takeshi returns his gaze to her interest.

“Oh nothing, really,” the young Scorpion bushi deflects the comment.

“Of course,” Takeshi responds not wishing to pry further, “I just hope that I can compete with such honorable and skilled samurai of the Great Clans and perform with honor and distinction.  Though to tell you the truth the martial pursuits are not my passion, I am a master of words and a skilled poet if I must say so myself.  My lord has given me permission to travel and work on my book, a collection of poems covering all the clans of our great land.  In fact this is my first time meeting a samurai of the Scorpion clan, and I am duly honored.”

“The honor is all mine,” Shiatari replies flatly.

Mayako smiles, “That sounds wonderful Suzume-san.”

“Please Takeshi is fine, we are all friends here,” the Sparrow bushi smiles.

“I wouldn’t say we are friends just yet, Suzume-san,” Shiatari responds.

The three samurai share pleasantries for a few moments longer before Takeshi takes his leave to visit with other samurai in attendance.  Leaving the two samurai-ko alone for the briefest of moments before they are approached by Mirumoto Rai, an equally young and inexperienced Dragon bushi.  He bows stiffly and speaks in an even tone, introducing himself as is proper for his station.  The greeting is brief before the young samurai leaves.

Mayako sighs scanning the room and is startled at the voice of her mother, holding a delicate fan with both the Phoenix mon and the Seppun mon displayed elegantly, “Mayako, we must retire and prepare ourselves for dinner tonight.  Bayushi-san you as well, you represent my husband’s house now.”

Shiatari is surprised at the introduction, “Agasha-sama, of course.”

The dinner is a sumptuous feast of steamed dishes and rice, with impeccable presentation.  Seated across from Mayako and Shiatari is the young samurai Takeshi, who grins at his luck.  The young Sparrow smiles as he sips his tea, “Benten must favor me tonight, to have placed me back in your presence this evening.”

“Hi Takeshi,” Shiatari greets the Sparrow bushi with a practiced smile.  The trio converse some more about the tournament until Asako Shizu-sama stands and offers his official greeting to the gathered samurai.

The older samurai is approaching the age of retirement, but he still retains his strength and determination and is more dedicated than ever to pursuing peace throughout the empire.  His warms take in the gathered guests and he gives a warm if heavy handed speech about the conflict between his clan and the Dragon, professing that only peace can ensure true victory.  Despite his message he can’t help but rest his eyes on envoys of the Dragon and the pro-war samurai of his clan.  His final announcement shocks the gathered samurai as he professes that this tournament will not test their martial skills but the skills of poetry, painting, dancing, and the tea ceremony.  Murmurs and frantic whispers spread through the hall.

Takeshi grins with delight as Shiatari and Mayako share concerned glances, neither is well schooled in those softer arts.  Shizu-sama then raises his cup of sake, causing the hall to silence and follow suit, “For the Empress!”

Mayako peaks to Takeshi, “Takeshi-san would you like to go for a walk after dinner and tell us about your poetry?  I would love to hear more about it.”

Shiatari sensing her newfound companion’s intent follows suit, “We would both be honored if you would join us.”

The young Sparrow bushi gives in to their requests and spends the rest of the evening walking with the two samurai-ko explaining his philosophy of poetry and it relates to sword play and even given them a few off the cuff poems to impress them.  It turns out he is a very skilled poet but not as smooth with the women as he would like to be…

Shiatari slyly asks, “So where are you chambers in case we would like to learn more?”

“Umm… my chambers?  I mean of course, you can come by any time day or night, I would be happy to see you in my chambers, I mean happy to see you.  I mean,” he sighs and gives them the location with an awkward smile.

Both girls giggle and the young poet retires.

“So what do you say that we check out his chambers later tonight, and find some inspiration for our own poetry,” Shiatari whispers to her compatriot.

“You mean?” Mayako replies softly.

“3 AM meet outside his chambers, we can find what inspiration we need, are you in?” the Scorpion grins coyly.

“Of course!”

[I will admit I had not planned for this, but this turned out much better then I had hoped! – GM’s note]

8^th of the Dragon, 1172 IC, Home of Bayushi Shiatari

Candles flicker, illuminating the dark chamber.  Bayushi Shiatari’s father sat in silence reading over missives from across the empire.  His jet black hair pulled back into several braids, his face covered by a green jade mask giving him a monstrous visage.  He glances up as his daughter enters the chamber.

“Greetings father, why have you summoned me,” she replies quickly with a bow, she was never one for formality.

Her father stands, “Your loyalty to the clan is in question daughter, ever since your failure with the Crane.”

“Failure!  It was not my fault!” she replies bitterly.

“The fault is yours accept, child.  But you can redeem your name and the name of the family.  I will give you this one chance,” his voice even and deadly.

“What do you wish of me?” the young bushi replies defeated.

“An old friend has called in a favor due, you will be sent to the Phoenix lands to serve Agasha Kosuke, daimyo of the Sweet Plum Province.  He is an old friend and your loyalty and dutiful service to him could prove a great boon for our family.  Do your duty, serve him well and perhaps this stain can be rectified, dismissed,” he finishes returning to his missives.

Shiatara exits quickly, pausing only to take a letter from a servant waiting dutifully outside the chamber.  She hands the young samurai an invitation to a Tournament of Samurai.

10^th of the Dragon, 1172 IC, Home of Mirumoto Rai

“Kitsuki-sama, Mirumoto Rai honored bushi of the border legion reporting,” Rai bows deeply to his lord’s karo.

Kitsuki Tomoe bows as she adjusts her kimono, “Thank you for arriving, our lord has an important mission for you, Rai-san.”

“Name it and it shall be done,” the young bushi replies firmly.

“You have been given the honor and distinction of representing our house and clan in the Tournament of Samurai held by esteemed Phoenix daimyo, Asako Shizu-sama at Pale Oak Castle,” she replies flatly.

Rai-san is stunned, “I, that is quite an honor Kitsuki-sama.  I will do my best to bring honor to our house and name.”

“It is not that simple, Rai-san, you will be required to perform certain actions on behalf of our lord,” Tomoe replies gently fanning herself.

“What… what actions?”

“This tournament is an insult to our house and clan, you will display our lord’s displeasure at this insult,” her voice soft but demanding.

“I don’t understand, is that honorable?” Rai questions.

“It is just, Rai-san, our lord has chosen you specifically for this task, his trust in you is absolute, and would you doubt our lord’s honor?” she questions with a raise of her brow.

“Of course not, Kitsuki-sama, I will do this,” the young bushi replies conflicted.

“Dismissed,” Tomoe turns away and walks to a screen door as the young bushi leaves her chamber.  The door slides back revealing a beautiful but deadly ronin bushi with a capricious smile upon her lips.  She brushes her long her back from her face with a coy smile.

“Am I to accompany him,” Natsuko grins.

“See to it, he does his duty,” Tomoe affirms.

12^th of the Dragon, 1172 IC, Sweet Plum Castle, Sweet Plum Phoenix Province

“I tire of these riddles, sister,” Agasha Yoko sighs, her large muscled bulk shifting as she ponders the riddle before her.

“Oh just one more, you are getting better,” Agasha Mayako grins as she glances to watch her pet peacock, Yuki, strut about the garden.  Her younger sisters were play fighting with wooden swords, defending the Empire against perilous threats.

“Fine but this is the last one, I have to see to the details of the trip all these conflicts with the Dragon of late have me concerned,” Yoko replies with a resigned sigh.

“What conflicts?” Mayako questions, totally unaware.

“Skirmishes along the borders, I am not surprised you are unaware, I don’t think your father would appreciate burdening you with such information.  But lives have been lost and many Phoenix wish to answer blood with blood,” she ponders for a moment; “Hopefully this Tournament can quell some of the bloodlust and bring some peace before things get much worse.”

Mayako perks up at the mention of a tournament, “A contest?  Can I participate?  I want to show mother what I can do, how far I have come.”

“I don’t know it isn’t my place to say, your mother would know for sure.  Ask her?” Yoko replies with a shrug.

Mayako wastes no time and leaves to find her mother sitting in her study reading.  She does not even look up as she speaks to her daughter, “Yes?”

Mayako clears her throat nervously, “I… I heard you were going to a Tournament, I wanted to enter it.”

Agasha Ayame glanced up at her daughter, a traditional Seppun beauty with refined features and impeccable grace and style, “And why would you want to do a silly thing like that child?”

“I wanted to represent the family, bring honor to our name,” the young shugenja replies meekly.

“Are you sure?” her mother asks.

“I think so,” Mayako quips.

“You think so?  You wish to represent our house, our family, and clan and you merely think you can to do it?” Ayame-sama returns her gaze to her tomes.

“I know I can do it, mother,” Mayako replies defeated.

“Fine, I had planned to bring you and your sisters anyway.  You have my blessing to enter the contest.  Bring honor to the name daughter, I expect you will do so with distinction,” her mother replies dismissing her daughter.

Important Characters

Bayushi Shiatari (PC): A young Scoprion bushi, 19 years of age, she is considered something of a failure to her family thanks to the Crane clan, Doji Aiko in particular, and a financial deal gone bad that cost her family much of their fortune. She got personal vengeance by having Aiko’s young son murdered but it did little to reverse the fortunes of her family. Her father has decided to rectify that by sending her to the Phoenix lands to pay back a debt to an old friend and hopefully give his daughter a chance to prove her loyalty and worth to the family. She is a deadly warrior and an accomplished duelist her seductive beauty rivals her skills.

Agasha Mayako (PC): Daughter, age 18, of an influential Phoenix daimyo, Agasha Kosuke, she has both Agasha and Seppun blood, from her mother and great things are expected of her. Trained as a shugenja in the Isawa Shugenja school, she is a very mischievous and perhaps dangerous individual who received some training in low skills that would possibly dishonor her family if known. She constantly seeks the approval of her mother and has two younger siblings; Sukime age 8 and Keiko age 11, both being trained to be Shiba bushi like their father.

Agasha Yoko: Daughter of a Hida bushi and an Agasha courtier, her parents married for love but the story did not end well for them. Her father died in battle shortly after her birth and her mother died while she was away being trained in the Hida Bushi school. She was raised by Agasha Kosuke and is very much a Phoenix samurai, but her Hida blood is strong, granting her massive size and strength. She is a calm and reserved individual and is fairly close to Mayako, they are more like sisters than friends.

Agasha Ayame: Born into the Seppun Imperial family, she is a woman of privilege, grace, and beauty. She was married off to Agasha Kosuke shortly after her coming of age, and has given him three children. Trained as an Otomo courtier, she is very difficult to outwit or trick and seems to notice everything around her in the court. She is a formidable of stoic presence and rarely shows affection, even her own children. She is distant but caring in her own way. She is a dutiful wife and an honored member of the family. Her daughters are her pride and joy but she also expects great things and gives them no chance for mediocrity.

Suzume Takeshi: A young poet warrior of the Sparrow clan, he is currently traveling the empire to gather research for his book of poems. He intends to write poetry that captures the essence of all the known clans, Great and Minor and publish them. His lord has given him leave to do so and it has allowed Takeshi to see much of the world. He is an accomplished warrior but he prefers tea and poetry to bloodshed. Takeshi prides himself as something of a playboy and enjoys taking great pleasure in the world around him. His most distinguishing feature is his shocking yellow-blonde hair, dyed of course, and handsome features. He is easy going and very cordial, and tends to avoid being too formal unless he has no choice.

Doji Aiko: An influential courtier, trained in the Yasuki tradition, her family had some old favors that the Crab had to honor, she is outwardly an honorable and dutiful woman. Truly thought she is a greedy and ambitious woman who keeps her buffoon of a husband happy by smiling politely and playing the role of good little wife. She has amassed a great fortune through shrewd deals, deceit, and seduction often while attributing her success to the skill of her husband who is oblivious to her many lovers, back room dealings, and merchant connections. She gave birth to a son, Yamaji, but he was murdered by the Scorpion. To avoid the shame, and unable to prove who his murderer was she lied and said her son died of illness. But since then she has turned her ire to rooting out his murderer and making sure the Scorpion suffer. She and Bayushi Shiatara are bitter enemies and she suspects the young Scorpion may have played a role in her son’s murder.

Mirumoto Rai: Another warrior poet of the Dragon clan he is currently an unwitting pawn of the Hidden Lotus Alliance. He has no great love for the Phoenix but he does not actually want outright war either but he is a loyal and honorable member of his house and will do as instructed. He is also one of Doji Aiko-sama’s many lovers, although he thinks she truly loves him as he does her. Rai is a skilled swordsman but not overly skilled in the court and as of the end of the adventure his anger towards the Phoenix has grown after his dalliance was exposed by a young Phoenix shugenja, Mayako-san. Thankfully Aiko-sama used her position to cover up the whole ordeal but the damage was done.

Natsuko: A ronin samurai bushi, she is a dangerous beauty who enjoys being somewhat scandalous and dark. Not much else is known about her besides her connection to the Dragon clan. She arrived with Mirumoto Rai and was often seen in his company in public.

Agasha Kosuke, Sweet Plum Province Daimyo: Father to Mayako and husband to Ayame, he has yet to be actually seen in the game. He is a gentle soul though not a pacifist. He is a veteran of many conflicts and earned his position through his efforts. He is respected by the people of his province and his samurai that serve him. Kosuke has no desire to go to war with the Dragon but he will do what he must to protect his clan and his Province. Unlike his wife, he is a very affectionate man and dotes after his daughters, including Agasha Yoko, constantly.

Sukime: Mischevious young girl, age 8, who wants to grow up to be one of the strongest bushi in the empire. She has a natural talent for athleticism and getting into trouble and hates boring things like the court, poetry, and other dumb things. She loves play fighting, following her eldest sister around, and generally getting into places she has no business getting into.

Anyway quick update, next post will be for my new L5R possible campaign, hopefully long term campaign.