[L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Light =&gt; Light: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Kirinis on 09-11-2011, 09:09:09</h2>
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				Title: <strong>[L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Kirinis</strong> on <strong>09-11-2011, 09:09:09</strong>
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				The scent of charred wood and toasted sugar could be smelled even here in the throne room of the shiro far from anywhere which would touch the outer walls.&nbsp; Mirumoto Kazuki walks back and forth glowering at all of you.&nbsp; Perhaps glowering is not the right word...let's go with trying to murder everyone in the group seated before him with his eyes.&nbsp; His skin has taken on a reddish hue and you can see a vein throbbing on his forehead.&nbsp; For another moment he is silent and the hatamoto kneeling next to where Kazuki should be seated looks relieved that this was all his lord was going to do...<br><br>"THIS WAS SUPPOSED TO BE SIMPLE!&nbsp; YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO FIND THE CAMP AND UPROOT THEM!&nbsp; INSTEAD I HAVE A FIRE THAT THREATENED TO BURN DOWN THIS TOWN!"&nbsp; With that outburst, he lapsed into silence again, his breathing coming out in sharp jags as he tries to find some sort of calm center.&nbsp; After another moment, Kazuki achieves it, although his next lines were still loaded with venom.&nbsp; "I wasn't aware that the Imperial Legions were so lacking in manpower that they had to draft the stupid and the hopelessly incompetent into their ranks.&nbsp; Your shireikan will hear of your disgraceful actions burning down the Green Bamboo sakeworks...&nbsp; An entire year's production gone up in flames.&nbsp; Was that your intent coming here?&nbsp; To destroy this town more thoroughly than the bandits?"<br><br>~~~<br><br>*Three Days Ago*<br><br>After a brief return to the training camp to rest after the assignment in the Hiruma lands, the order had came down from your shireikan.&nbsp; A relatively minor Mirumoto lord had recently sent a report requesting aid.&nbsp; Apparently his town had under attack from bandits and they had already struck several times terrorizing the town.&nbsp; In particular, the Green Bamboo sakeworks whose sake was popular amongst some in the Empire was about to ship out this year's production.&nbsp; The lord's own private guards could not track down the bandits and he feared for the safety of the outgoing shipment.<br><br>As such, you were to ride out to the town, investigate, and deal with the bandits appropriately ensuring that the sakeworks was not harmed.&nbsp; The trip itself had taken a week on horseback.&nbsp; Nothing exciting in particular occurred, merely the occasional passing wanderers and other wayfarers on their way to some place.&nbsp; Finally passing through the light forest that covered the region, the path leads through rice paddies seeing the green shoots of the second planting peeking out of the water although there are very few peasants out tending to them.&nbsp; The wooden palisades of the small town can be seen up ahead on the path and a small keep that could be charitably called a shiro peered over the sharpened wall top.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>09-11-2011, 10:46:46</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://l5r.wikia.com/index.php?title=Mon&amp;image=Lion-png)</div><strong>Name:</strong>Matsu Tetsuya<br><strong>School</strong> Kitsu Shugenja<br><strong>Height/Weight</strong>&nbsp; 5'10"/&nbsp; 181<br><br><strong>Tags:</strong> Everyone<br><br><div class="floatleft">(http://l5r.wikia.com/index.php?title=Mon&amp;image=Matsu-png)</div><br>Tetsuya wasn't skilled at riding under pressure, but the ease with which he lazed atop his steed while on the road belied that fact.&nbsp; He was a lion king on his rock, master of all that he surveyed.&nbsp; <br><br>But there was more in his eyes today than stoic enjoyment of the scenery or polite admiration of the girls in his unit.&nbsp; <br><br>"We'll need to start with intelegence gathering," he mused aloud, then turned to face the seven Thunders monk who traveled with them.&nbsp; "Kai-sama, I've found that peasent folk will often confide in a monk long before a strange samurai.&nbsp; Will you do us the kindness of seeing what information you can draw from the farms and monestaries?"&nbsp; <br><br>Then he turned to the beautiful Crane clan courtier whom he always took pains to ensure road in as much comfort as possible.&nbsp; "Doji Ayano-san, surely the saki works or yon keep will yeild more suitable company for one of your station, and more suitable for you to interview?&nbsp; Will you select a yojimbo from among our number for the times when we divide ourselves?"&nbsp; <br><br>He turned again, this time to a maskd beauty and her equaly desirable twin maids.&nbsp; "Bayushi Yukiko-ko."&nbsp; Tetsuya had an odd way of adressing their groups other courtier&nbsp; He went to great lengths to show respect, never failing to offer a title or courtesy, but at the same time she never recieved the courtesy of -san from him.&nbsp; -Ko--while a compliment to her beauty--was also an even more diminutive title than -chan, and using it in a professional situation was inpolite, improper, and more than a little domineering.&nbsp; "I will not pretend to tell a scorpion of your skil how to perform her dutties, but please don't hesitate to request a gaurd."&nbsp; <br><br>He looked around at the others, then spotted a humbly dressed bushi.&nbsp; "Suzume Hachi-san," he called out.&nbsp; "I've found that peasent folk can be just as responsive to Sparrow charm as a monk's robes.&nbsp; Perhaps you could also do me the honor of walking among them in search of our quarry?"&nbsp; 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Tackyhillbilly</strong> on <strong>09-11-2011, 11:19:44</strong>
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				Kai still found it... difficult to deal with the respect he recieved. At the Monestary, he was the least of the Monks. The youngest. The one from no clan, no family. The foundling. Now? He was Brother Kai, and Kai-Sama, expected to speak with the voice of Shinsei. Part of him still regretted leaving the monestary. Part of him was overjoyed at experiencing outside life. Bounded by the four wall of the Monestary, life was so small. Out here? So big! He was still lost at sea, even after 2 years, but even now, he was surrounded by the wonders of the deep.<br><br>"If you believe it would be best. May I request someone accompany me? I fear I may miss something of importance."<br><br>Kai bowed respectfully.<br><br>"Perhaps Doji Riel-Sama, or Daidoji-Sama. Politics and war are still disciplines of which I know far to little."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idariel</strong> on <strong>09-11-2011, 13:35:13</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i51.tinypic.com/vh3jtu.png)</div>&nbsp; <div class="floatleft">(http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk8/hornerjs82/albino_beauty-2.jpg)</div>&nbsp; <div class="floatleft">(http://i54.tinypic.com/2rm6yv7.png)</div> <br><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Name:</strong> Doji Riel</span><br><strong>Clan:</strong> Crane Clan, Doji Family<br><strong>Class:</strong> Shugenja Class, <br><strong>Honor:</strong> 6.5<br><strong>Sex/Age:</strong> Female, 19<br><strong>Hair:</strong> Silvery-white<br><strong>Eyes:</strong> Silver<br><strong>Height/wight:</strong> 4'6 (1.36 m) and 70#&nbsp; (31.75 kg)<br><strong>Time:</strong> Arriving at town – Day -3<br><br><br><br><strong>Tags:<strong> Everyone, especially – Kai, Misaki, Matsu, Hachi, Yuuji, Akemi<br><br></strong></strong><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Character Pictures</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i1233.photobucket.com/albums/ff383/Idariel1/Axiomalbinolady2Femio-1.jpg)<br><br>(http://i1233.photobucket.com/albums/ff383/Idariel1/Axiomalbinonotaltered-1.jpg)<br></div></div><br>Matsu Tetsuya, being of the Lion Clan, naturally assumed command. He was swift of mind and attentive to the courtiers, which suited Riel.<br><br>Doji Riel's fan moved gently, one moment obscuring her face, the next revealing it, always so that the lovely side filled with Cranes and the image of the Crane garden was to those around her. The inside, with darker images, was for her alone. <br><br>Her dark blue kimono set off silvery hair, adorned with elaborate hair pins with Cranes on them, even as the kimono had pink cherry trees and silver cranes scattered in a whimsical fashion over it. Her familys mon sat in isolated splendor on her right arm, the clan's mon on her left. She seemed poised always on the brink of flight, as if she might shimmer and become the emblem of the clan she loved so deeply.<br><br>She watched intently as Suzume Hachi was asked to walk amongst the peasants, asking questions. A flashing glance at Dadaijo Misaki and she looked away, pretending indifference. But it would difficult, if the Sparrow took offense. She'd scarcely been granted speech with the young man.<br><br>Then the monk spoke, and Riel gifted him with a quiet smile and an answering bow. <strong>“I would be honored to attend to these duties with you, Kai-sama.</strong>” She did not, even after two years, speak for her Yojimbo, though she knew Misaki would not let her go alone.<br><br>She thought for a moment; it as an axiom that none knew politics like the Crane Clan, but then … it was also true that they were not most known for war. <strong>“If it is war you wish guidance on, I believe none know it quite like the Crab Clan.”</strong> She glanced at Hida Yuuji. <strong>“If no other duties require you, Hida Yuuji-san, would you wish to accompany us?”</strong><br><br>She looked once more at Tetsuya, then her gaze fell upon the Sparrow Bushi. <strong>“Suzume Hachi-san, is it your will to travel with us? Or to perhaps ask another Shujenga to accompany you?”</strong> She studied the assembled Legion. <strong>“Moto Akemi-san, perhaps you would be willing to accompany him, so that no one walks here alone until we know what to expect?”</strong><br><br>She fluttered her fan slowly, quicksilver eyes resting in turn upon each of those present before coming to rest upon her Yojimbo. A faint smile quirked, and she tilted her head in gracious inquiry as to Misaki's wishes. <strong>“Dadaijo Misaki-san,* shall we search amongst the people with Kai-sama?”</strong><br><br><br><br>*Trying for respectful but exceedingly fond of her; not sure what is correct.&nbsp; 
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				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idej</strong> on <strong>09-11-2011, 15:36:06</strong>
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				Yukiko shrugged off what Tetsuya said, she was used to it, being a Scorpion and all, besides it wasn't a grievous offense to her...yet.<br><br>She gave the group a smile and walked up to Kai, "Perhaps it would be more wise if I were to accompany you Kai instead," she then looked at her handmaidens, "Ami, Himiko, stay here, I'll be accompanying Kai-sama to assist him," she gave her fellows a sly smirk to them,"Unless of course you think the high-flying Crane is better suited."<br><br>She'd let the Lion make the decisions, afterall, if things go awry it'll be the Lion who will have to take the responsibility anyways since he decided to take charge...She laughed a bit inside, it saved her the trouble of leading these people...
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				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aybara</strong> on <strong>09-11-2011, 15:49:18</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/1478/samuraibylubliner.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/233/samuraibylubliner.jpg/)</div>The Sparrow Bushi watched and listened as the others spoke. The Lion Shugenja took the lead immediately, he had no issue with this but a slight curve came to his lips as the man spoke of how the lower caste often respected and were more open with the Sparrow Clan samurai. It was like a joke in some ways, they were more willing to talk to the Sparrow Bushi because he was more willing to talk to them. The peasants had their place in the world but they were not to be looked down on for it in his mind they should be shown a level of respect if they conducted themselves honourably. He of course didn't expect them to hold themselves to the same standard of a Bushi or Shugenja.<br><br>Hachi was of course not wearing the finest clothes in the group but they were fine enough. Still the man's hair and personal grooming could not be faulted. He looked at Riel as she spoke to him his cheeks getting just the smallest amount darker as he began to blush, they would have noted over the past two years he tended to blush often around beautiful women and this had not lessened over that time. <strong>"I would be more than pleased to work with any member of our group, there is wisdom in us staying in groups of two if there are bandits in this town. I would not wish to see harm come to any of you."</strong> His eyes did particularly move to the courtiers in the group, the Bushi had their blades, the Shugenja had their own abilities but the courtiers had their tongues to mainly rely on and if their words failed he would prefer if they had someone experienced in combat to assure their safety. He did not even hint at suggesting this as it might slight the courtiers, they had all at least some skill in battle.<br><br>Once Yukiko spoke he inclined his head a little to let Doji Riel know if she wished he would travel with her.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LightNight</strong> on <strong>09-11-2011, 23:08:53</strong>
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				Hida Yuuji would listen as the Lion started giving orders this did not make him think of any thing of it the Lion always wanted to be at front line so he look over the land at the wooden palisades &amp; small keep he then look to Kai then to Doji Riel as she ask if his duty would take him some place different then the other as he look to the keep. “I will have to decline your request Doji Riel-san for two reasons, One I want to have looked at the Keeps defenses &amp; the town’s defenses as well to see what could be done to strength it if needed &amp; I have seen many peasants don’t like to talk with large Crab samurai around.”<br><br>He look to Matsu Tetsuya “I like to have look at the defenses around sake works as well after I have had look at the defenses of the keep &amp; town.” he saw the defense as the first thing that should be looked at if this place had been raided by bandits already.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wheresmycow</strong> on <strong>10-11-2011, 04:11:27</strong>
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				<strong>Mirumoto Ichirou<br>Tagged: Everybody and anybody?</strong><br><br>The young bushi sat on his steed, watching the interplay between the others with amused interest.&nbsp; Ichirou always gave the impression of being amused, at someone or something, laughing behind his slight smile at a joke he only knew.&nbsp; When speaking, his tone was always light and with good humor.&nbsp; Given their mixed company though, it wasn't hard to see why he would be consistently amused.&nbsp; For one, a Crane and a Dragon bushi were in the same group and expected to work together.&nbsp; Ichirou was free from most prejudice, willing to form his opinions less old rivalries and hatreds blind him in his own pursuit of enlightenment, but a part of him itched to test blades against her.&nbsp; However, to maintain a more harmonious gathering of differing clans, Ichirou had quelled his desire for the moment.&nbsp; Especially since they were assigned together to assist a Mirumoto lord.<br><br>Ichirou wasn't sure if he had heard of this lord before or not.&nbsp; More than likely, as a matter of etiquette, he should have known, but it eluded him for the moment.&nbsp; There was the possibility of a face jogging his memory, or perhaps gleaming information from the commoners would yield something useful.<br><br>"No tasks for the Dragon?" Ichirou asked with a smile.&nbsp; "Ah, but with no bandits to draw swords against, this humble bushi is without ability to contribute at this time.&nbsp; Alas, I will make do then with accompanying anyone who feels so inclined to have me assist them, or perhaps go find a garden to practice my samisen."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idariel</strong> on <strong>10-11-2011, 17:47:41</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i51.tinypic.com/vh3jtu.png)</div>&nbsp; <div class="floatleft">(http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk8/hornerjs82/albino_beauty-2.jpg)</div>&nbsp; <div class="floatleft">(http://i54.tinypic.com/2rm6yv7.png)</div> <br><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Name:</strong> Doji Riel</span><br><strong>Clan:</strong> Crane Clan, Doji Family<br><strong>Class:</strong> Shugenja Class, <br><strong>Honor:</strong> 6.5<br><strong>Sex/Age:</strong> Female, 19<br><strong>Hair:</strong> Silvery-white<br><strong>Eyes:</strong> Silver<br><strong>Height/wight:</strong> 4'6 (1.36 m) and 70#&nbsp; (31.75 kg)<br><strong>Time:</strong> Arriving at town – Day -3<br><br><br><br><strong>Tags:<strong> Everyone, especially – Kai, Misaki, Matsu, Hachi, Yuuji, Ichirou<br><br></strong></strong><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Character Pictures</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i1233.photobucket.com/albums/ff383/Idariel1/Axiomalbinolady2Femio-1.jpg)<br><br>(http://i1233.photobucket.com/albums/ff383/Idariel1/Axiomalbinonotaltered-1.jpg)<br></div></div><br><br><br><br>Doji Riel watched the Sparrow Bushi out of the corner of her eye. He had the faintest smile on his lips, as if at a secret joke. That curve of lip relaxed her tense shoulders. Once more they avoided a duel or fight over leadership that would lead to failure in their assigned task. He looked at her when she spoke, a bit of color in his cheeks; but then his gaze rested on the Courtiers, both of whom were quite beautiful. <br><br>She was still watching him, when Bayushi Yukiko co-opted the Monk and therefore saw the Sparrow's polite acceptance of her company.<br><br>There was that tiny thrill of doing the forbidden, since she well knew her father's strictures on all the people she was not to talk to. For two years they'd been out here, and the list of forbidden people seemed to grow longer with each letter from home. But she still found herself bowing to him in polite acceptance. Maybe she would hear one of those famed Sparrow stories.<br><br>Then she bowed respectfully to Kai-Sama. <strong>“If this arrangement suits you, Kai-sama?”</strong> It was more his decision, than the Scorpion's … but the final decision would likely rest with the Lion.<br>&nbsp;<br>Hida Yuuji's gaze swept over the area that was their new responsibility before answering her. His answer brought a twinkle to her eye and a flutter of her fan. She took a moment, looking at the man, to imagine just how a stranger might feel facing him. And who better then a Hida Bushi to know if the fortifications were sound? She bowed to him. <strong>“I understand, Hida Yuuji-san.”</strong><br><br>Riel tried not to smile, but despite the traditional enmity she was supposed to feel on Misaki's behalf, Mirumoto Ichirou almost always brought a laugh or a smile with him. So though her look was properly&nbsp; &nbsp;composed her eyes laughed with him as he nimbly maneuvered for tasks while pretending to be trying to get out of them.<br><br>He really should have been a courtier, with that wit.<br><br>So it was with sparkling, twinkling eyes and that faint, mischievous smile of doing something one really ought not to do that she bowed to Suzume Hachi, and looked over at the Lion.<br><br>How would he take this rearranging of his orders?
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aybara</strong> on <strong>10-11-2011, 18:10:35</strong>
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				Hachi returned the bow of the Crane Shugenja, he walked over to stand beside her. His cheeks were still a little dark as he stood beside her and gave a&nbsp; nod towards the Matsu Shugenja, <strong>"There is wisdom in Yuuji-san's words, his eyes may find weak points now that we may not have time to check for later."</strong> He lent support tot he Crab but he did not pretend it was the only way to approach such a problem.<br><br>He was eager to help the Mirumoto lord and it's people. Perhaps if they did well they would be invited to come to the local daimyo's court, his family blade from his mother's side had a history with the Mirumoto which had moved between friendship and violence and back. He hoped that what he added to the legacy was a renewed respect by them. He turned to the Mirumoto in their midst, the faint smile still on his face <strong>"We are in the lands of your family Ichirou-san, I am sure any administrators and functionaries would be only too happy to answer your questions. If you are not needed to help another and are at a loose end perhaps you could come with us, your presence would certainly be welcomed by myself."</strong>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pumpkin Seeds</strong> on <strong>10-11-2011, 19:01:25</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://images.wikia.com/l5r/images/0/0d/Daidoji.png)</div><br><br>Daidoji Misaki was a constant presence around her charge.&nbsp; Like a shadow she was never far behind or around the young shugenja.&nbsp; Well she made attempts to remain unobtrusive there was no mistaking the armored figure or the blade at her side.&nbsp; There was purpose in her bearing and dedication in her gaze that could not be mistaken for passive interest.&nbsp; Misaki was here to die at the behest of her charge, to lay down her life so that another might draw breathe.&nbsp; One could not take up such a banner without their persona being felt close at hand.&nbsp; So it was that she now stood behind her youthful ward with one hand resting idly on the hilt of her sword.&nbsp; Behind her the blade extended outward to give her a wide berth, making use of the Rokugan custom of never touching another’s sword.&nbsp; The trick was an old one among the Daidoji but old because of its effective use.<br><br>Eyes of pale ice glanced from one face to the other.&nbsp; Familiar though they were, her orders were quite clear on the presence of men near Doji Riel.&nbsp; Simply put there was to be none in intimate proximity.&nbsp; Much of her use in negotiation was based upon her virtue.&nbsp; The reputation of Misaki was one of the reasons her father had sent for her by name, requesting a woman that knew the ways of men but was irreproachable in honor.&nbsp; To all that knew of her, Misaki was such a woman.&nbsp; White hair trailed behind her head, dyed regularly in honor of both her family founder and a love lost to the dark lands that threatened Rokugan constantly.&nbsp; That many confused the purpose was of little consequence to her.&nbsp; The white of her hair did much to place emphasis on the porcelain skin and delicate features of her face.&nbsp; Were not for the unsettling cold of her eyes or the disdainful twist of her perfect lips, she would still be regarded as quite the beauty.&nbsp; During the two years of service with the others of this unit only one man had dared approach her with the topic of remarriage and that man was a relative of her ward.<br><br>Silence seemed to carry itself well around her as the conversation shifted to tactics.&nbsp; The Daidoji were more than familiar with battle, but Misaki had little input here.&nbsp; Her duty was to remain beside the young shugenja and so her function was limited severely to whatever task Doji Riel would be involved in doing.&nbsp; The notion of her charge moving among peasants did not please her though and her gaze moved to the monk with stern consideration.&nbsp; A twitch of her lips was given to show displeasure and perhaps a desire to speak.&nbsp; That desire was soon confirmed when she bowed low toward her ward with great respect in her voice and on her features.<br><br>“I do beg your pardon for my intrusion,” Misaki always carried herself as if she did not truly belong among the unit as she was not personally invited to join the legion, “but the Sparrow Clan are well versed in the life and troubles of the heimin.&nbsp; Perhaps beside the honorable monk he would best be served to know of their danger.&nbsp; While I am certain that Bayushi-san needs no assistance in becoming acquainted with the heimin, they may well be of greater service in the task than you or I.”<br><br>Her eyes flickered toward the Crab for a moment.&nbsp; Truth be told he was the safest of the men for Doji Riel to be around.&nbsp; The odds of her father approving a marriage to the man were less likely than even some of the women gathered here.&nbsp; A Doji woman to a Crab was hardly worth even a passing joke.&nbsp; Misaki knew that Riel was aware of this as well and could easily turn her ward’s attention away from such romantic ideals.&nbsp; Afterall, Misaki was the bride of a Crab at one time and there would be little cause for Riel to doubt any words she whispered to her in that regard.<br><br>“I do think our talents might best be served alongside Hida-san.&nbsp; Perhaps you can speak to the spirits to offer their blessing to the defense of this land in the coming times.&nbsp; A Crab would know well the use of the spirit's blessing, if we are not an imposition on his inspection of the defenses of course.”<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Kokaine</strong> on <strong>10-11-2011, 19:24:02</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u133/kokotigress/Elliquiy/Akemi.jpg)</div><em><strong>Name:</strong></em> Moto Akemi<br><em><strong>Sex:</strong></em> Female<br><em><strong>Age:</strong></em> 18<br><em><strong>Hair/Eyes:</strong></em> Black/Violet<br><em><strong>Height/Weight:</strong></em> 5'9”/145 lbs<br><em><strong>Clan:</strong></em> Unicorn<br><em><strong>School:</strong></em> Iuchi Shugenja<hr><br>Moto Akemi sat atop her horse, fingers stroking through its mane absently while violet eyes scanned the horizon. Her posture and far off gaze gave the impression of a certain aloofness, and indeed, one viewing the group from outside might think her not a part of it were it not for the female shugenja clinging to her. Of course that was something Akemi had grown used to by this point in her life. <br><br>Though she wasn't looking at them directly, the shugenja was not oblivious to what was going on or the tasks that lay ahead. Even as her gaze roamed her ears were attuned to the conversation going on, carefully making note of the tasks being handed out by the Lion shugenja and the subsequent division of labor. At the sound of her own name being spoken, she turned her gaze from the landscape to the speaker, careful not to jostle Yoritomo Kei too much as she let her eyes rest upon the lovely Crane shugenja.<br><br><strong>“I will go wherever I am needed,”</strong> came her simple, toneless reply as she nodded her head in acknowledgment despite the lack of respect given by her counterpart. <br><br>Daiseishin, her horse, nickered softly under the Unicorn as though chiding her and drew a smile that softened the severe set of her features, making her seem far more approachable and amiable than she might have seemed just moments ago. She was neither so callous or arrogant as she seemed but in two years she had done little to prove the facade false in the eyes of the others. And given their view of Unicorn in general she was even less inclined to do so. She would let them think as they would so long as they did not impede her. The closest she had come to friend amongst their ranks was the woman currently sharing her mount with palpable fear.<br><br>With another pat to her steed's neck she shifted her posture and let the smile slip from her features. Patiently her gaze roamed their small group as they continued on, her shoulders squaring in her royal purple kimono. It was not the most extravagant of her garments, nor did it have any heavy gaijin influences as her clan was known for, but with her family mon displayed proudly it certainly spoke of her status at least among her own. Indeed, were it not for her horse and the larger mon of the Unicorn across her back, her appearance might not have been differentiated from her companions at all. Her hair was just as neat as the rest of her, the long dark strands tied back in two at the ends so that it did not block her vision while riding. Their bindings though were a bit unusual, having been a whimsical gift from her brother she wore them always now. Though that was not something she could afford to think of just now.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idej</strong> on <strong>10-11-2011, 20:44:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=123980.msg5456096#msg5456096">Quote from: Pumpkin Seeds on 10-11-2011, 19:01:25</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><div class="floatleft">(http://images.wikia.com/l5r/images/0/0d/Daidoji.png)</div><br><br>Daidoji Misaki was a constant presence around her charge.&nbsp; Like a shadow she was never far behind or around the young shugenja.&nbsp; Well she made attempts to remain unobtrusive there was no mistaking the armored figure or the blade at her side.&nbsp; There was purpose in her bearing and dedication in her gaze that could not be mistaken for passive interest.&nbsp; Misaki was here to die at the behest of her charge, to lay down her life so that another might draw breathe.&nbsp; One could not take up such a banner without their persona being felt close at hand.&nbsp; So it was that she now stood behind her youthful ward with one hand resting idly on the hilt of her sword.&nbsp; Behind her the blade extended outward to give her a wide berth, making use of the Rokugan custom of never touching another’s sword.&nbsp; The trick was an old one among the Daidoji but old because of its effective use.<br><br>Eyes of pale ice glanced from one face to the other.&nbsp; Familiar though they were, her orders were quite clear on the presence of men near Doji Riel.&nbsp; Simply put there was to be none in intimate proximity.&nbsp; Much of her use in negotiation was based upon her virtue.&nbsp; The reputation of Misaki was one of the reasons her father had sent for her by name, requesting a woman that knew the ways of men but was irreproachable in honor.&nbsp; To all that knew of her, Misaki was such a woman.&nbsp; White hair trailed behind her head, dyed regularly in honor of both her family founder and a love lost to the dark lands that threatened Rokugan constantly.&nbsp; That many confused the purpose was of little consequence to her.&nbsp; The white of her hair did much to place emphasis on the porcelain skin and delicate features of her face.&nbsp; Were not for the unsettling cold of her eyes or the disdainful twist of her perfect lips, she would still be regarded as quite the beauty.&nbsp; During the two years of service with the others of this unit only one man had dared approach her with the topic of remarriage and that man was a relative of her ward.<br><br>Silence seemed to carry itself well around her as the conversation shifted to tactics.&nbsp; The Daidoji were more than familiar with battle, but Misaki had little input here.&nbsp; Her duty was to remain beside the young shugenja and so her function was limited severely to whatever task Doji Riel would be involved in doing.&nbsp; The notion of her charge moving among peasants did not please her though and her gaze moved to the monk with stern consideration.&nbsp; A twitch of her lips was given to show displeasure and perhaps a desire to speak.&nbsp; That desire was soon confirmed when she bowed low toward her ward with great respect in her voice and on her features.<br><br>“I do beg your pardon for my intrusion,” Misaki always carried herself as if she did not truly belong among the unit as she was not personally invited to join the legion, “but the Sparrow Clan are well versed in the life and troubles of the heimin.&nbsp; Perhaps beside the honorable monk he would best be served to know of their danger.&nbsp; While I am certain that Bayushi-san needs no assistance in becoming acquainted with the heimin, they may well be of greater service in the task than you or I.”<br><br>Her eyes flickered toward the Crab for a moment.&nbsp; Truth be told he was the safest of the men for Doji Riel to be around.&nbsp; The odds of her father approving a marriage to the man were less likely than even some of the women gathered here.&nbsp; A Doji woman to a Crab was hardly worth even a passing joke.&nbsp; Misaki knew that Riel was aware of this as well and could easily turn her ward’s attention away from such romantic ideals.&nbsp; Afterall, Misaki was the bride of a Crab at one time and there would be little cause for Riel to doubt any words she whispered to her in that regard.<br><br>“I do think our talents might best be served alongside Hida-san.&nbsp; Perhaps you can speak to the spirits to offer their blessing to the defense of this land in the coming times.&nbsp; A Crab would know well the use of the spirit's blessing, if we are not an imposition on his inspection of the defenses of course.”<br><br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Yukiko shrugged, <strong>"Perhaps that might sound better,"</strong> she said to Misaki, <strong>"The Sparrow are better with dealing with the heimin than most others, and Kai-sama's usage in granting the blessings of the spirits might be better use.&nbsp; What does our de facto leader have to say of to say of this though,</strong> she said as she beamed her eyes on the Lion with a cold smile...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>11-11-2011, 03:27:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Name:Doji Ayano<br>Age: 18<br>Skin: Pale<br>Eyes: Blue<br>Hair: White<br>Height/Weight: 4'8", 90 pounds<br><br>School: Doji Courtier<br><br>(http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/l5r/images/5/52/Doji_Ayano_XP.JPG)<br><br><strong>Tagged Matsu and Everyone</strong><br><br>Ayano's fan hid her face leaving only her eyes to peer out at the others. Truth be told she was somewhat shy. This was the first time she had ventured out from her Clan. She had been appointed and told, she was of age, she had excelled at the Doji Courtier School being told repeatedly, she was the best student in the school in the last 50 years. She had realized however, being the best student in a protected environment was nothing compared to being in this environment of strangers- not knowing who she could trust. <br><br>Matsu Tetsuya had taken charge and there was something about him - his aura was a good one- and he was ever respectful and mindful of her needs. Her head bowed slightly giving him respect for his courtesy.<br><br>"Matsu Tetsuya-san- Your guidance is much appreciated. I will proceed to the saki-works to gather information. " She turned to walk away and then turned back: "As for the Yojimbo- it is a good suggestion, however, I am not familiar enough with the people here to make such an important request of someone- time will be my guide." She turned again to walk a few steps, and then turned back :"Unless, honorable <br>Matsu Tetsuya-san- you have someone in mind? Perhaps we can discuss this after later."<br><br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wheresmycow</strong> on <strong>11-11-2011, 11:32:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Mirumoto Ichirou<br>Tagged: Hachi, Ayano</strong><br><br>"And if I were a courtier, I would be just as happy to ask them those questions," Ichirou answered Hachi.&nbsp; "And perhaps I'd even be clever enough to come up with some beyond just who is attacking them and their numbers.&nbsp; But your idea has merit, and who I am to turn down an invitation for company?"<br><br>Ichirou's eyes flickered to Ayano, "While asking for a yojimbo at this time may be a bit too forward, perhaps Suzume Hachi-san and I should accompany you?&nbsp; After all, he needs to speak with the heimin, and a sakework can hardly be run entirely by administrators and functionaries.&nbsp; For one, after a days work, they'd send a petition to have the tools operate themselves, and then send further petitions to each other criticizing why no work is getting done.&nbsp; And while I would expect my fellow family members to treat you with due courtesy, perhaps my presence will serve as a gentle hint that if one dragon can cooperate with a crane, then other dragons should follow suit.&nbsp; Though I would applaud your bravery if you would enter the dragon's den alone."<br><br>"Such an organization would not disrupt the allotment of tasks I presume?" Ichirou asked.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>11-11-2011, 13:24:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tagged: Mirumoto and Suzume</strong><br><br><br>Ayano turned once again as Mirumoto Ichirou&nbsp; spoke to her. His suggestion was worth merit and she nodded slightly.<br><br>"Thank you Mirumoto Ichirou-san. Your suggestion will serve you and I, as you have indicated. I would not presume to believe it would serve also&nbsp; Suzume Hachi-san. "<br><br>Her gaze turned to Suzume Hachi and she spoke with respect bowing her head slightly.<br><br>" Suzume Hachi-chan- Mirumoto Ichirou-san and I are going to the sake works, would it please you to come with us?" <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>11-11-2011, 17:28:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tetsuya considered everyone's words carefully before speaking again.&nbsp; "Very well then.&nbsp; <br><br>“Yuuji-san, I do indeed need your assessment of the areas defenses.&nbsp; Please make it so, and please take Akemi-san with you.&nbsp; <br><br>“Kai-Sama, would you please speak to the villigers?&nbsp; Perhaps Riel-san and Misaki-san can accompany you, or watch over you from a distance as you think is best?&nbsp; A visit to the local shrines might also reveal something.&nbsp; <br><br>“Hachi-san, would you please address the henien at the Sake works?&nbsp; Ayano-san, would you please speak with the administrative staff at the sake works?&nbsp; I will accompany you.&nbsp; <br><br>“Yukiko-ko, Ichirou-san Kei-san, please give our regards to the lord of the land.&nbsp; We should all join you at his home near sundown.”&nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LightNight</strong> on <strong>11-11-2011, 18:42:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hida Yuuji would listen to the Lions words as he waited for what he think was the next move to make &amp; he then give Matsu Tetsuya a bow then would look back to Moto Akemi gave her bow “Shell we have look at the keep Akemi-san.” she was a shugenja but at lest she was of Unicorn there two clans got along well so Yuuji did not mind her as much as the other Shugenja in the group.<br><br>“We will have look at the towns &amp; the sake works defenses in time so we will meet up with rest of you in time.” with that he push his horse forward to the keep at a good speed so he could get head of the group his eyes would look to the keep his mind already going over what tactics he would do to take it as it was easier to work on defense after you come up with how to attack it.<br><br>“Akemi-san what feeling do you get from what is going on?” He ask her as he may not believe in a higher power but he had learned being with this group that the Shugenja had other power that was far be on his &amp; there senses could help him gage what maybe needed in the defense they were about to have look at.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aybara</strong> on <strong>11-11-2011, 18:46:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tagged: Tetsuya, Ayano</strong><br>It was not the greatest of tasks but he gave no complaint, when the bandits came he would have more than enough chances to show the others to respect the skill of the Sparrow Clan. The henien might be able to shed more light on the situation than others in the area about these bandits at the very least were they locals who had turned to this dishonourable profession or were they outsiders. Outsiders would be better he thought as the locals would not be as likely to protect them or show loyalty.<br><br>Watching as Yuuji moved off he gave a nod to Tetsuya and began to urge his horse forward since the arrangements were now agreed upon.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idej</strong> on <strong>11-11-2011, 20:51:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Yukiko gave Tetsuya the smallest amount of acknowledgement to him and walked off as she motioned Ami and Himiko to come with...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>BraveEarth</strong> on <strong>11-11-2011, 21:24:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Name: Yoritomo Kei<br>Sex: Female<br>Age: 18<br>Hair/Eyes: Black/ Brown<br>Height/Weight: 5'11”/170 lbs<br>Clan: Mantis<br>School: Yoritomo Shugenja<br><br>Yoritomo Kei was half aware of all that was occurring around her. Her head was cast down staring down at the Mon of her Unicorn companion. Moto Akemi was gracious enough to allow her to accompany her rather than her be forced to ride her own horse.&nbsp; She tried to meditate the entire journey, relishing the times when she was away from the animals, having been deathly afraid of them ever since she was little. Although a consequence of this was when she was ona horse even when it was being lead by another she was less than aware of her surroundings. She did not catch the Crane, Lion or Scorpions words at all only being alerted to their planning when she heard Akemi speak. Kei raised her head looking up to see if the town was in sight praying that she would be able to walk the rest of the way. "Moto-san... how far are we from the town?" she whispered to her companion. <br><br>Kei's own robes were slightly hidden underneath the armor she wore, she expected it would prove useful when their party finally came into confrontation with the Bandits, honestly thought She wouldn't be surprised if she was mistaken for Bushi, what with none of her other fellow Shugenja clad and her Katana at her side, the only tip was the scroll satchel that also hung on her left side. Kei had long since meditated on her place in the preparation and knew that helping with the Defense of the Sake works would be the best option for her, although she did not trust her voice at the moment to convey such a thought.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Tackyhillbilly</strong> on <strong>11-11-2011, 21:30:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai bowed to Tetsuya respectfully, and then turned to Riel and Misaki. He had kept quiet during the conversation. He had never been good at putting himself forward, and his time in the Monestary had made sure what little desire he had was gone. He nearly always waited for the others, whom he considered far wiser then he, to decide.<br><br>"Thank you, Matsu-Sama."<br><br>Kai turned to Riel and Misaki, bowing once more.<br><br>"Daidoji-Sama and Doji-Sama, if you have no objections, we should probably begin."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idej</strong> on <strong>11-11-2011, 22:04:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Yukiko took no note of Yoritomo Kei as she continued to move ahead of the woman to her destination.&nbsp; She did not have any regards of the woman, as the only real times they have spoke to each other the words usually had veiled insults at one another.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Kokaine</strong> on <strong>12-11-2011, 01:57:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u133/kokotigress/Elliquiy/Akemi.jpg)</div><em><strong>Name:</strong></em> Moto Akemi<br><em><strong>Sex:</strong></em> Female<br><em><strong>Age:</strong></em> 18<br><em><strong>Hair/Eyes:</strong></em> Black/Violet<br><em><strong>Height/Weight:</strong></em> 5'9”/145 lbs<br><em><strong>Clan:</strong></em> Unicorn<br><em><strong>School:</strong></em> Iuchi Shugenja<hr><br>At the sound of her companion's whisper Akemi's eyes turned to the town in question, considering. <strong>“We are within walking distance Yoritomo-san. And indeed, if we are to take up differing tasks then here is where we must part.”</strong> She replied knowing the reason for the woman's question. Her phobia of horses was a distracting thing and if she were to be of use to them then walking the rest of the way might be best for her. Daiseishin was long used to the Mantis after two years and despite being a spirited horse with far more wisdom than one might suspect, he had gentled for the sake of the Mantis shugenja.<br><br>She heard Tetsuya speak again and in finding she was paired with Hida Yuuji something in her sighed with relief. She bowed respectfully to the Lion and then turned to Yuuji. Being paired with the Crab bushi was not a hardship and given the relations between their two clans, it was a better choice than some of the others. Of course, nothing would have stopped her from the task at hand but still it was good to have one less worry.<br><br>Akemi would wait for Kei to act, choosing whether to continue on with them or climb down from her mount, before she would urge her larger horse closer to the Hida bushi. At his question she bowed in return, <strong>“I would be glad to accompany and assist you in whatever manner I am able, Hida Yuuji-san.”</strong> She deferred to him and his bushi skill as lead in this task. <br><br>Spurring Daiseishin on with a subtle signal to match Yuuji's pace, Akemi blinked in surprise when the male asked her opinion on the matter but her violet gaze darkened as she considered his question seriously. <strong>“I do not sense anything directly, not from here anyhow. But perhaps once we get closer I may be able to look into it... though it will of course take time. Hopefully, these bandits are using more mundane measures that will allow us to ferret them out quickly.”</strong> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idariel</strong> on <strong>12-11-2011, 04:45:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i51.tinypic.com/vh3jtu.png)</div>&nbsp; <div class="floatleft">(http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk8/hornerjs82/albino_beauty-2.jpg)</div>&nbsp; <div class="floatleft">(http://i54.tinypic.com/2rm6yv7.png)</div> <br><br><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Name:</strong> Doji Riel</span><br><strong>Clan:</strong> Crane Clan, Doji Family<br><strong>Class:</strong> Shugenja Class, <br><strong>Honor:</strong> 6.5<br><strong>Sex/Age:</strong> Female, 19<br><strong>Hair:</strong> Silvery-white<br><strong>Eyes:</strong> Silver<br><strong>Height/wight:</strong> 4'6 (1.36 m) and 70#&nbsp; (31.75 kg)<br><strong>Time:</strong> Arriving at town – Day -3<br><br><br><br><strong>Tags:<strong> Everyone is mentioned – Kai, Misaki, Hachi, Ichiro, Hida, Akemi spoken to or reacted to<br><br></strong></strong><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Character Pictures</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i1233.photobucket.com/albums/ff383/Idariel1/Axiomalbinolady2Femio-1.jpg)<br><br>(http://i1233.photobucket.com/albums/ff383/Idariel1/Axiomalbinonotaltered-1.jpg)<br></div></div><br>Suzume Hachi returned Doji Riel's bow with simple grace and walked to stand beside her. When he invited the Dragon to accompany them she was quite pleased. A cheerful Bushi, from the same family that those here looked to, and a well mannered Sparrow seemed an excellent choice for their mission. She smiled up at Hachi, but before she could speak her Yojimbo moved.<br><br>It was a subtle thing, a change in stance and expression, then Daidoji Misaki bowed to her. She returned the respectful bow, and listened intently. Her eyes flickered again to the Sparrow Bushi in faint apology; her glance at the Scorpion courtier was more wary, She truly did not think their monk ought to go alone anywhere with the Scorpion, nor did she quite see how anyone whose specialty seemed to be throwing out subtle insults would be good at gathering information from people.<br><br>Her gaze returned with a wistful sigh to Misaki; for all her great respect for and deep care of her Yojimbo, still they'd been playing a subtle tug-of-war for two years. And Misaki was winning. It helped that honor and duty were on the Yojimbo's side, of course. She followed Misaki's gaze to the Crab Bushi, then she nodded acknowledgment to her words, but awaiting Matsu Tetsuya's judgment. <br><br>She liked how he was willing to listen, and think through the comments given, not mindlessly insist on strict adherence to his first notion. She did not know if it was normal for his Clan, or perhaps something taught to military leadership, but she respected his strength of character for not being threatened by dissenting ideas.<br><br>Moto Akemi's distant and toneless reply to her invitation was not entirely unexpected; she was deeply withdrawn and Riel's every attempt to offer friendship seemed to be painful to the Unicorn Shugenja. But she was determined to keep trying; she rather thought they ought to be friends, by now. Riel saw the soft smile as Akemi soothed her horse, and was once more glad that Kei was with her. She'd need a friend, having lost her brother.<br><br>Once more Riel made an effort not to respond as the Scorpion addressed Kai-sama so very casually. She was a courtier, right? Trained to politics, courtesy and respect as the Bushi were to battle and the Shugenja to spiritual matters. So why did she seem to enjoy insults so very much? Or was it the subtle aura of hostility, causing her to respond in kind?<br><br>Doji Ayano, her cousin, seemed a proper courtier to Riel; lovely, intelligent and courteous. She startled a little at the idea of a … well, a guard for her cousin. A proper Yojimbo would be good; perhaps she would write to her father about that. A Dadaijo or maybe a Shiba? <br><br>Mirumoto Ichirou answered the Sparrow Bushi's invitation to travel with them with his ever present good cheer and a ready acceptance. She focused on him and blinked, fairly sure her father had not yet thought to forbid her to be friends with a Dragon. Maybe the thought simply hadn't occurred to him. She bowed to Ichirou, vastly pleased with his courteous words for her cousin.<br><br>She would have liked to travel the Saki works with such a pleasant group. They would be well balanced for violence, good company in peace and offer a chance to learn a little more about each of them, but she could not fault the Lion's redistribution. He had many tasks to accomplish at once, and his appointed groups still offered good balance.<br><br>At least one Bushi and Shugenja per team, with the only two-man team containing those most able for a desperate fight. She bowed to both of them, <strong>“Hida Yuuji-san, Moto Akemi-san, Farewell.”</strong><br><br>She smiled up at Suzume Hachi, <strong>“I thank you deeply for your willingness to watch over my cousin, Suzume Hachi-san. Perhaps another time will permit me to coax a Sparrow story from you.”</strong> She bowed to those in his group. <strong>“Farewell for now; stay safe, all three of you.”</strong> <br><br>Reil bowed to Ichirou, <strong>“I suspect with your clever words you would swiftly find the answer to any questions you might wish to ask. Farewell, Mirumoto Ichiro-san, Yoritomo Kei-san.”</strong> She bowed to Kei.<br><br>She moved then to the monk and returned his bow. <strong>“Kai-sama, we shall follow your wisdom on speaking with the people here. I am eager to see their shrines. Do you know if there are monks nearby? I wonder if it would take longer than we have to make the trip to a monastery.”</strong><br><br>She walked with him towards their goal, to the town itself. What would they see, and who would they meet?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wheresmycow</strong> on <strong>12-11-2011, 10:53:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Mirumoto Ichirou<br>Tagged: Tetsuya, Yukiko, Riel, Misaki, Ayano, Hachi</strong><br><br>Ichirou considered Tetsuya's words, "Certainly, I have nothing against accompanying Yukiko-san to speak with the lord here, but since I've stated my intent to accompany Ayano-san to the sake works, it behooves me to follow through on my words.&nbsp; Once I've been properly impressed by it all though, and can craft the appropriate praise, then I will make my way to visit the lord of the estate.&nbsp; I am a Mirumoto bushi after all, the lord would be pleased if a fellow family member was filled with a sort of personal investment in protecting this place."<br><br>"You flatter me," Ichirou smiled at Riel, "and were it not for the fact that you're yojimbo would split me in two with her blade, I would repay those words in kind.&nbsp; Instead, I will have to rely on your imagination as to what clever compliment I would deliver to you if I could."<br>Ichirou inclined to his head respectfully to Misaki, to show that he meant his words in light jest and that he was not making fun of her.<br><br>Moving his horse to catch up with Ayano and Hachi, he nodded at both of them, "Onto the sake works then."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aybara</strong> on <strong>12-11-2011, 12:58:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tag: Tetsuya, Riel, Ayano, Yukiko, Ichirou, Kei</strong><br>"Riel-sama I will tell you as many stories as you wish when our task here is done or the mission permits, and once we are done here we will have another tale to tell but let us make sure it is one with a happy ending where honor and courage defeat greed and corruption!"<br><br>Remembering Kei dislike of horses he dismounted a short distance from the group and said in a clear voice so it would carry to Kei but kept his eyes on the Dragon Bushi as he approached "Ichirou-san, the horses have carried us a great distance perhaps we should walk the last stretch and have them relax a little. It would be good to stretch our own legs as well and not have them stiff if the bandits have some kind of surprise waiting for us when we get there." They were all the truth and logical reasons to dismount now though he knew that Kei's distaste for riding would be the clear main reason but he did not want to shame her by drawing attention to this.<br><br>"Yukiko-sama will you also accompany us part of the journey?" His cheeks got a little darker as he looked at her directly such was her beauty.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LightNight</strong> on <strong>12-11-2011, 19:46:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hida Yuuji was be making his way up the road heading for the keep he had give a bow of his head to Doji Riel when she gave him &amp; Moto Akemi a farewell then he look to the keep again then turn his head to look at Akemi. “Yes let’s hope your skills will not be need for such a mundane thing as hunting down this bandits, I look forward to see what keep defenders have to say about all this.” <br><br>He push his horse forward trying to get to the keep before any others got to there places as he had feeling the keep would be the most safes place in this land &amp; his skills would be needed in the town or maybe sake works were ever this bandits may show there face next.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idej</strong> on <strong>13-11-2011, 18:18:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The Scorpion Courtier looked at Ichirou with a smile, "Ichirou-san, it does not bother me if you accompany me or not," she said to him, "All that is needed is that we have a solid plan on what we are doing and then it will get done.&nbsp; Besides the less of us there are initially with the Lord perhaps the less intimidated he shall be while I am talking to him."<br><br>Yukiko looked at Hachi with a sly smirk and cold eyes and responded, "Oh Hachi-sama, you want me to accompany you," she asked him with a slight blush, "It would be wise if I did so just so we are a bit more united on our front for the time-being."<br><br>She moved over to be next to Hachi as her eyes stared straight ahead towards their destination.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>14-11-2011, 16:27:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br>The lion's back straightened when Ichirou fell out of the harmony he'd tried to put forth with his plan.&nbsp; He held his peace a moment, though, and Yukiko seemed to handle it.&nbsp; Nodding to all, he followed the trend of dismounting and leading his horse towards the sake works.&nbsp; <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>BraveEarth</strong> on <strong>16-11-2011, 00:31:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Name: Yoritomo Kei<br>Sex: Female<br>Age: 18<br>Hair/Eyes: Black/ Brown<br>Height/Weight: 5'11”/170 lbs<br>Clan: Mantis<br>School: Yoritomo Shugenja<br><br>Kei dismounted the horse unaware of any of the roles that the Lion took upon himself to make, nor her role the he thought would be best suited for her. In fact she really wasn't completely aware until a minute after dismounting as she tried to take in her surroundings looking around to see most of the group close by but seeing Hide Yuuji and Moto Akemi riding off, her back tingling slightly as she remembered being on that massive animal. Kei was rather lost as to who else would be seeing to the defense of the town.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Kirinis</strong> on <strong>16-11-2011, 16:23:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Everyone:<br><br>As your horses approach the village, the few peasants out working in the paddies with the newest shoots look up and stare at your contingent of samurai riding past them.&nbsp; Some of them gravitate towards each other whispering something unheard as they continue to watch you, while others just simply shake their heads and return to their labors.&nbsp; Standing at the gates are two bushi clad in armor with the Mirumoto mon emblazoned on it.&nbsp; They regard you with weary suspicion but do not bar your way letting you pass without word.<br><br>Within the walls, village life seems to proceed as normal as people move back and forth conducting their daily business.&nbsp; They hurridly step out of your way and keep their heads down until you have passed.&nbsp; After a moment, a few minor functionaries appear, dressed in clothes slightly finer than of the peasants.&nbsp; Bowing repeatedly, "Welcome samurai-sama, the lord wishes to convey his wishes that you are welcome to our humble Mura.&nbsp; Please, if there is anything you need, feel free to command us.&nbsp; The lord has released us into your service for while you are here in the village."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>17-11-2011, 05:53:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tagged: Everyone and the functionaries</strong><br><br><br>The Lion redistributed everyone and Ayano bowed her head slightly..She was honored that he would take it upon himself to accompany her.<br><br>"As you wish." She mounted her horse and was ready to continue with the Lion when Mirumoto Ichirou-san re-established himself as her protector. Ayano was somewhat confused and hesitated for a moment watching the Lion's reaction as Mirumoto's words could be seen as a challenge to the Lion. But the Lion took it in stride. Ayano breathed a small sigh of relief and turned her horse to follow Mirumoto's. She wondered what they would find at the Sake works. <br><br>Ayano watched the people that they passed- their reactions were interesting. She catalogued this information away for later when she was in a more quiet place and could close her eyes and revisit these reactions and understand what they meant.<br><br>They arrived at the sake works and were met by several workers of a higher class than the villagers they passed. Ayano held the reigns of her horse in her hand. She nodded to the workers..<br><br>"Thank you for your welcome. I would like to know the names of the people I speak with so if I have questions I may return to you."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aybara</strong> on <strong>17-11-2011, 14:48:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Tagged: Everyone</strong><br>Once they had given their names Hachi nodded to them as well "I have a task to attend to if you will excuse me." It might be best he thought if they knew that the various Samurai had tasks and a plan of action they were putting into action immediately. It was better than them all bumbling around. He asked for the horse to be stabled and went out to make some inquiries with some of the&nbsp; peasants and workers in the area.<br><br>He moved amongst they respectful asking about the bandits, if any had suffered loses because of them and requesting any information no matter how small to them could be helpful.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Conversation 24<br>Roll Result: Aybara rolled: 5d10<br>Comment: Hachi talking around the Sake works. Rolling five keeping three.<br>Result: 8, 4, 9, 7, 1, <br>Total: 29</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idej</strong> on <strong>17-11-2011, 15:43:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Yukiko watched and listened to everyone speaking and then cleared her throat.<br><br>"If you do not mind I wish to speak to your lord," she asked.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Kirinis</strong> on <strong>18-11-2011, 18:11:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Everyone:<br><br>The functionaries were distressed as everyone scattered in three different directions and after a moment of flustered movements reminiscent of birds squabbling over a few scattered grains split off to follow each group closely.&nbsp; "Please wait up!"<br><br>~~~<br><br>Looking At The Defenses: Hida Yuji &amp; Moto Akemi<br><br>As they walked around the village it became readily apparent that the defenses of the town were fairly rudimentary.&nbsp; Aside from the guards at the gate, it appeared that the only thing keeping anything out was the wooden wall ringing the entire town.&nbsp; It was constructed out of poles made of sharpened tree trunks two men tall and two hands wide.&nbsp; Neither Yuji or Akemi could see the presence of any other soldiers even as common as peasants wearing straw armor with sharpened poles.&nbsp; The functionary accompanying them would routinely speak up asking what the two 'honored samurai' were looking for and if he could be of any assistance.<br><br>~~~<br><br>In The Village: Doji Riel, Daidoji Misaki, Kai<br><br>The commercial section of the village seems to be bustling enough.&nbsp; People moving back and forth conducting their trade as normal, although there is a slightly subdued tone to the proceedings.&nbsp; Likewise, you all draw the attention of everyone who look at you before quickly looking away again.&nbsp; One of the men heads over to the group with a smile and an obsequious nod.&nbsp; "Esteemed samurai-sama, your horses look weary.&nbsp; Perhaps you would care to have them penned at my stables?" <br><br>~~~<br><br>At The Sake Works: Matsu Tetsuya, Doji Ayano, Suzume Hachi<br><br>At the doorway, there was a lone sentry dressed in ashigaru gear who stood up straighter and looked as if he was going to bar their way before deciding against it and letting you three pass without argument.&nbsp; In the courtyard, there were already a collection of casks sealed, tied, and stamped.&nbsp; There was the smell of sweet sake lees in the air that perfumed everything.&nbsp; Some of the workers were busy carrying empty casks from one building to another while others are carrying much heavier casks to yet another building.<br><br>In the background, you can all here an song...one of the rustic work songs that the peasants are prone too between the thumps of wood against wood and other sounds of hard labor.&nbsp; A slightly portly man steps out, wearing rude cotton clothes his body stained with unsightly sweat and in general looking much like the antithesis of the samurai ideal.&nbsp; "Greetings humble samurai...&nbsp; This one is Kosugi, merely humble overseer to this place.&nbsp; How can I be of service?"<br><br>When Hachi talked, Kosugi frowned.&nbsp; "Bandits?&nbsp; We have not seen bandits here, samurai-sama.&nbsp; Perhaps out in the woods.&nbsp; Some of my men's families were hassled when they were out foraging.&nbsp; You may want to speak with Reiji more about it.&nbsp; Would you like to, samurai-sama?"<br><br>~~~<br><br>Meeting the Lord: Bayushi Yukiko, Mirumoto Ichirou, Yoritomo Kei<br><br>The lord's keep could be barely called one in comparison to some of the more majestic ones you three have been into.&nbsp; Aside from the stone foundations that reached up one floor, there were only two more floors rising above it.&nbsp; The wood looks a bit worn from time but standing at the door are two bushi dressed in Dragon colors with the Mirumoto mon emblazoned on their chest.&nbsp; Unlike the sentries at the village gates, these bushi look sharper and much better equipped.<br><br>"Halt, identify yourself."&nbsp; The one on the left calls out to you while the one on the right casually rests his hand on his pommels watching you carefully.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wheresmycow</strong> on <strong>19-11-2011, 06:58:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Mirumoto Ichirou<br>Tagged: Yukiko, Kei</strong><br><br>"You do not recognize the colors of a fellow clan member, and family at that?" Ichirou asked curiously, before smiling and bowing just enough to be polite but not much more than that. "Though I suppose those of the legion look all alike to you.&nbsp; I am Mirumoto Ichirou of the Mirumoto Bushi school, and soldier in the legion.&nbsp; Beside me is Bayushi Yukiko-san and Yorimoto Kei-san.&nbsp; We are here to speak with the lord, and introduce ourselves on behalf of the others with us."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LightNight</strong> on <strong>19-11-2011, 16:22:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hida Yuuji would walk the wall his right hand checking the posts every at random times to make sure they were stable his mind on how bad of defense this was almost no guards besides the gate he not say any thing for some time after he had checked the hole wooden wall around the village.<br><br>“Has there been any threat to this town of late?” He ask for a answer from those sent to help him &amp; Moto Akemi his left hand resting on the handle of his swords as this defenses feels very weak for his taste but he got the feeling the village did not feel it self in danger.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aybara</strong> on <strong>19-11-2011, 23:32:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hachi considered for a moment before answering "If he is not far I will take directions but my comrades have questions for you and some of the other management of the sake works which I have no doubt you will answer as best you can. My name is Suzume Hachi." He inclined his head in a nod, the man was of a lower caste but would be shown courtesy. "Have their been many incidences of people's families being 'hassled'."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>20-11-2011, 04:01:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Doji Ayano<br>Tagged: Everyone</strong><br><br>Hachi answered quickly- perhaps too quickly for herself and Tetsuya but she would not dishonor him. She heard his question to the overseer and waited for the man's response. She would ask her own questions after.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Tackyhillbilly</strong> on <strong>20-11-2011, 12:00:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Kai took the lead, answering the villager with another bow, just as deep as he would have made to a Samurai. Kai knew a Monk's place in Rokugan, even sheltered as he was. It was the only place he'd ever had, and he wore it like a second skin.<br><br>"I am Kai. My esteemed companions, Doji Riel-Sama and Daidoji Misaki-Sama..."<br><br>Kai gestured to the women accompanying him.<br><br>"...and I would like to speak to your headman. As well, do you have a local shrine, or are any of my brothers in the village? The road has been long, and I would like to thank the spirits for granting us a safe journey."<br><br>Kai wasn't lying. He did wish to pray and meditate, in truth. It had been far to long since he had done so beyond his efforts at the roadside, and attempts there never seemed to grant quite the same... clarity.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idej</strong> on <strong>20-11-2011, 20:38:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Yukiko just gave a sly smile at the stupidity of the guards.<br><br>"I can see how <em>fortunate</em> your lord is to have such dutiful guards he has," she said as she showed her identification of the Imperial Legion, "I think we have shown proper identification to who we are."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Kirinis</strong> on <strong>29-11-2011, 09:14:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				At The Lords<br><br>The guard took in what Ichirou and Yukiko stated and when the words registered that the three were from the Legions, both of their spines discovered newfound veins of iron as they straightened up even more so and came to attention.&nbsp; "Forgiveness, Mirumoto-san and fellow Legionnaires.&nbsp; We are humble samurai charged with a duty to protect our lord.&nbsp; We did not mean any disrespect.&nbsp; You are indeed very timely to arrived at such an hour."&nbsp; The one who spoke softened slightly and relaxed his guard slightly as he bow slightly, his eyes not looking directly at Ichirou.<br><br>The other samurai though made no such token gesture and if anything looked even more annoyed by Yukiko's commentary.&nbsp; However, he kept his tongue still although a curt *tch* escaped his lips as he continued to watch them.&nbsp; The first samurai looked and smiled. "I beg forgiveness for my brother samurai here.&nbsp; Ikawa here takes his duties very seriously, he does not mean any discourtesies."&nbsp; He then turned to push open the door they were standing guard in front of revealing a small slice of a manicured garden laid out in the courtyard.&nbsp; "Please enter, I'll escort you to meet our lord immediately."<br><br>~~~<br><br>Defenses<br><br>The functionary kept his eyes low as he replied, "Aside from the bandits, we have not had any particular troubles recently.&nbsp; This town is relatively sheltered by the surrounding woods and there aren't any major groups operating near us."&nbsp; The functionary paused for a moment to hem and haw for a moment digging through his mind for any other tidbits.&nbsp; "The most recent trouble was iin regards to a wild boar that was rampaging through the woods.&nbsp; The ashigaru drove it off though..."<br><br>~~~<br><br>Sake Works<br><br>"Very good, Suzume-sama."&nbsp; Kosugi bowed again as he acquiesced to Hachi's request.&nbsp; "I'll have one of the workers take you to Reiji.&nbsp; As for the hassling..."&nbsp; He was not one for the typical high language one heard in the courts and he was much more rude and rustic.&nbsp; Much like any other peasant really.&nbsp; "There were a few of them.&nbsp; They have been increasing recently though, but although some say it isn't the bandits at all but the spirit of a boar haunts the woods and strikes at those who trespass in its territory."<br><br>~~~<br><br>Village<br><br>The man paused for a moment and shifted gears quickly to address Kai.&nbsp; "Of course, we have a humble shrine dedicated to the Fortunes, Kai-san.&nbsp; There is only a single priest who tends to it.&nbsp; I can lead you there if you wish."<br><br>He then turned to flash his smile at Riel and Misaki.&nbsp; "After stabling your horses, I'll have a few of my men prepare a sedan for both of you.&nbsp; It would not do for samurai such as yourselves to have to travel by foot to the shrine if you wish to pay your respects there as well."&nbsp; The man rubbed his hands as he awaited their response.&nbsp; He seemed eager enough to try to please the three of them.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Idej</strong> on <strong>30-11-2011, 17:57:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"So I see," Yukiko said with a smooth voice as she walked by letting her hips rock back and forth.<br><br>"Mirumoto Ichirou-san, I'll let you do the talking with our lord, unless you want myself to talk," Yukiko spoke to the Dragon.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>LightNight</strong> on <strong>02-12-2011, 07:29:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hida Yuuji would had looked over the defense they seam below par but he reminded himself this was not Crabs land for the villages defenses would not have to be allot stronger. “About this bandits have they attacked the village much or have there attacks been aim some place different?”<br><br>Yuuji would look to his team mate Moto Akemi after he asked the question as if she had any thing to ask or say, he see how the village seam to be busy &amp; doing well even with the things that have been going on of late.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Kirinis</strong> on <strong>05-12-2011, 21:00:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Defenses<br><br>"Attack the village?"&nbsp; The functionary looked aghast at the idea of bandits attacking the village.&nbsp; "No, samurai-sama.&nbsp; All the attacks have been outside of the village of people who were working in the fields or foraging in the woods.&nbsp; Our town has been left unmolested."&nbsp; The functionary idly adjusted his dark cotton sleeve as he looked to Yuuji.&nbsp; "There have been occasional arrows found lodged on the palisade walls but there hasn't been any attacks on the village.&nbsp; No doubt the bandits are afraid of our lord's soldiers."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Wheresmycow</strong> on <strong>07-01-2012, 03:37:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Ichirou smiled pleasantly at the guards, "Timeliness is a part of our duty.&nbsp; Please, lead the way."<br><br>"As for speaking with the lord, Bayushi Yukiko-san, I will follow your suggestion, but only so far as to make introductions," Ichirou said.&nbsp; "I lament that training with the katana left me with little time to practice the art of wielding words, and hope you can make up for my lack of skill."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [L5R] Edge of Steel - Main Thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aybara</strong> on <strong>11-01-2012, 01:57:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Hachi considered for a moment before speaking again "Thank you for the information, perhaps you could direct&nbsp; me to this man you spoke of earlier but I am sure the others have important questions you could answer now." He had the information he felt he needed and thought the others might be holding back so as not to make him appear rude for taking the lead but now he thought it would be good to allow them to do so in a way that would let him keep face if needed. He adjusted his stance slightly to look at the others,
			</dd>
		</dl>
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