Tatsumura Masamune
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Shogun of the Tou Fuu Shogunate
"You think this is something, you should hear about the Celestial Porpoise!"
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on Sept 20, 2008 8:27:30 GMT -5
The area around the table and on it were covered by countless scrolls. Reports covering details regarding the Jovians, the Warband, and the new Mao Monastary, which was nearing completion. They layed sprawled out on the floor of Masamune's room, as he took his time to read each and quickly move on to the next. The sudden appearance of the messanger samurai went almost unnoticed.
"Tatsumura-dono, you have guests. Fuuma-dono awaits you along with Elestrine-dono."
Masamune perked up at the name. It was one that he had not heard from some time.
"Inform them that I shall meet them in the main chamber. I will be down shortly."
The samurai bowed low, then slid the door closed, and made to return the message to Kotaro.
Masamune collected his scrolls, returning them to their rolled state. He stood up, and stretched, but whinced in pain and grabbed his left side. The wound he recieved from being impaled by the viking spear had yet to heal completely. As he put the scrolls up, and made his way do down the kyuden to the main chamber, he looked back to a few weeks prior.
The battle with the Warband was intense, and was a victory in almost every sense of the word. That changed when the Jovian general Shatar appeared, and laid into the combined forces from Aethenu, Mittelmarch, Kyuden Tatsumura, and eventually Dunland.
He cleared his mind when he entered the chamber. He took his place on his throne of jade, situated on each side of the throne were two each, one for every daimyo. The room stands as a large room, 100 ft across, by 200 feet long. The room is supported by 8 pillars, that seem to lightly smoke. Each pillar looks to be made of crystal, but a quick touch will reveal the truth that they are ice, ice that never seems to melt. Kanji cetorate the pillers, telling storys that only those that can read Rokugani could understand.
He sat up the best he could, and tried to make it appear that he was fine, but the even greater paleness of his already pale face would denote that something was amiss to his old friend, even if he did maintain his look of physical wellbeing. He waited quitely for his guests to appear.
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Sept 20, 2008 9:35:03 GMT -5
"Fuuma-dono, the Shogun wishes that you and our guests meet him in the main chamber," said the recently returned samurai.
"Arigato," Kotaro replied, dismissing the samurai, who returned to his duties.
Standing, Kotaro addressed the elven queen. "If you'll follow me, my lady. Tatsumura-dono awaits."
With that, he turned and led them to the main chamber. "My lord, may I present the Lady Elestirne," he said, bowing deeply to the Shogun and taking his place in his daimyo's chair.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 20, 2008 20:20:10 GMT -5
Elestirne nodded gravely, with a glance to Storm,who had not spoken yet. "That was implied. And,as I said, Akaruri-Storm would never have sent to me or asked for me to come in aid to Mittelmarch if he did not believe that my assistance would truly be needed, that the threat to you was so great that he needed to call on me. Thus do I know that it is true that Mittelmarch needs me and cannot stand against this threat on it's own. And I...did not leave Artanor lightly." Something almost like a shudder rippled through the queen's slender frame for only the briefest of instants. Olore bent his neck gracefully to touch his muzzle to her cheek;keeping his eyes on Kotaro. Authion shifted slightly,almost anxiously.
Elestirne continued. "And I would not have come...but for my otorno's entreaty to do so." There was a strange note in her voice. " Even for friendship,I do not wish nor want to be caught in a war..." Once again her gaze shifted briefly to Storm. "But nothing in the message mentioned this....'Warband'.. It appears more danger than what was said threatens the land-and more than you know.."she added cryptically. "But this shall be spoken of later. I could note that it is sometimes more dangerous not to know intentions than it is to know them. But whatever aid my warriors can give,they will. That too,can and will be discussed with Tatsumura likely."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 20, 2008 20:55:47 GMT -5
Authion looked at Kotaro as the mortal asked of his name;breaking out of his thoughts. He had marked his friendly greeting of and respect for/towards his queen, and his queen's likewise friendly greeting of the mortal. He dipped his head to the man;his emerald eyes considering. Elestirne had mentioned something of this one, he recalled vaguely. Here was one of those who had taken part in the effort to recover her from the sorceror's stronghold. A spark of flame kindled in his eyes at the thought of the sorceror, but he restrained it. His voice was strangely deep for an elf's but still retained a strongly melodic tone and was warm and friendly.
"No, we have not met. I did not accompany the lady-queen and Olore when first they came to this land and since I have never seen you in Artanor, there is no other place in which we would have met. I am Authion. Lord to some, Captain or Commander to others, all three at once only when necesary or when I cannot avoid or escape it." He made a slight bow and dip of his head. "I am leader and Captain of my lady's Knight's and commander-or general if you prefer-of her army. I have long been a friend and mentor of My Lady Elestirne as well as guardian and one-time teacher of arms to her. It is good to meet you. I would hope a friend of my Queen's could count me a friend. Kotaro were you called? My lady-queen has mentioned you. You...helped her once did you not?"
As Elestirne nodded at Kotaro's words after the messenger had left and rose gracefully from her seat, Authion stood as well and followed behind Olore as the silver stallion and his queen followed Kotaro. He trusted the mortal would answer him at a convienent time. Kotaro led them into what Authion supposed would be called the palace and the elven-knight couldn't help but take in the strange architecture and surroundings with awe.
This place was utterly alien from anything he had ever seen-even when compared with Oron's home and lands. The people too, strange,different-quite unlike those of Oron's whom he had seen and spoken with. They entered a long,wide chamber with pillars and thrones and Authion found himself staring-for the pillars were made of solid ice. Magic..strong magic... He shook his head faintly and stood at attention behind his queen and Olore as Kotaro announced Elestirne's presence to the man sitting upon te throne-an oddly pale man with violet eyes,he couldn't help but note. A color he knew did not appear among mortals and relatively seldom among even elves. The elven-knight detected magic about this individual,powerful magic. This,he surmised, must be the Lord Tatsumura he noted as Kotaro retreated to one of the thrones-another of those Elestirne had met in her first journey here three years ago. He tried to recall what his queen had said about this one...
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 20, 2008 22:50:43 GMT -5
Elestirne nodded and rose gracefully. "Yes, let us not keep Tatsumura waiting. And the sooner what I must say to all of you is said, the sooner perhaps, we shall be able to speak of pleasanter things."
She let Kotaro lead all of them through the castle to a wide,long chamber with pillars of ice, where Tatsumura sat on a throne of jade;taking in the beautiful architecture and surroundings along the way. Strange,yes, but beautiful.
Once in the chamber a faint smile touched her lips briefly as Kotaro announced her before taking his seat. Really,there was no need, as both men,of course, knew who she was but for some proper protocol must be observed. She sensed Authion take up a position behind her even as he stared at the ice pillars,but Storm she did not see. Olore took his familiar position at her shoulder after going to the pillar closest to them. He touched it lightly with his muzzle and it glowed at his touch until he broke contact. He gave a pleased snort. After he had returned to her side she rested her hand at the base of his neck,near his withers. Together they looked to Tatsumura.
Elestirne's silver-grey eyes and Olore's orbs of starry blue met and held the lord's violet ones unblinkingly without speaking for a long moment as the three studied each other again for the first time in three years. Olore's voice rang out first,audible to Kotaro,Storm and Authion as well as Elestirne and Tatsumura; deep,resonant ,and singing with power and magic. His silver coat rippled and shimmered with its own subtle light in the hall;the silver-white light limning his form luminous and soft. He dipped his muzzle faintly to Tatsumura. Greetings windwalker. It appears the chances of life have treated you kindly. There is much we ought to speak of.
Elestirne too, dipped her head slightly in greetings. Silver sparkles glimmered among the midnight tresses at the movement, and the light glanced off her intricately wrought crown. "Tatsumura. It is good to see you again. It has been some time as you account it. There is,as Olore said,much we need to speak of. Doubtless you want to know why and how we are here..." She paused a moment,looking him over keenly;taking in his paler than usual face and the way he seemed to try too hard to make it seem he was well. Concern entered the clear grey eyes;mingling with the troubled look there and faintly evident also on her face. "Tatsumura friend,you are injured. Wherein is the hurt?" Olore besides her narrowed his eyes,thinking. His thoughts were heard only by himself. Perhaps the first strokes are already struck...
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Tatsumura Masamune
Moderator
Shogun of the Tou Fuu Shogunate
"You think this is something, you should hear about the Celestial Porpoise!"
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on Sept 21, 2008 12:11:00 GMT -5
Masamune stood up gingerly, clearly favoring his left side. He held up his hand before Elestrine could make a motion to heal him.
"My shugenja have done all that they can. The rest must..as they say, take it's natural course. Such is the nature of impaling wounds."
The Shogun stepped towards his guest, a look of not only pleasure to see his old friend, but of wonder as well, until a look of understanding came across his face.
"I see, this is why Akururi wanted to go into Mittelmarch. I am not sure what it is that he has told you, but it is good to see you again. Please."
Masamune motions towards a low sitting table near the left wall of the room. Masamune sits on a pillow at the head of the table, while servents bring additional pillows for the others.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 21, 2008 23:57:49 GMT -5
The concern in Elestirne's lovely eyes only deepened upon seeing the pain that Tatsumura was in,and her healer's instinct wished to heal,to help but the elven-queen held her ground. For all the pain the hurt looked to be causing him it looked as though it might be better left alone and if it was his wish that it was done so she would respect it.
Olore snorted;tapping a forehoof sharply against the floor. A few silver sparks flickered into being,then died away. How were you injured Tatsumura windwalker? The stallion's voice was one of deadly seriousness. We should know.
Elestirne slanted a gaze to Storm briefly as she followed Tatsumura to the table he had indicated and took a seat next to him on the pillow provided her. Olore,after flicking his ears back and forth guardly and warily for a few moments before laying down beside Elestirne's seat. She lay her hand again along his neck. As the others tooks their seats-Authion on the other side of Olore-she spoke. Her voice was soft-lilting and musical as always but troubled undercurrents rippled underneath the lyrical tones and showed in the dimmed brilliance of her eyes and shadowed look on her lovely face. "He has not told you either,why or how it is that Olore and I are here,or that he had rode to Mittelmarch to meet us? He did not tell Kotaro either. This is most unusual for my otorno. I would thought that he would have told you at least Tatsumura,if not Kotaro. If he has not told you why I and Olore are here than you must hear it-and the other things that must be spoken of,which,I'm afraid,are not pleasant. Only after that,perhaps,may we come to pleasanter topics. But first..." Her eyes flashed the length and width of the hall guardly and her bearing was taut,tense. Subtly she leaned to Tatsumura and only he heard her voice,soft as leaves. "What I have to say is only for your ears and those already seated here. I need your assurance that there are none that are-or will be listening to our conversation or watching this meeting by any means-magical or normal-and that what I tell to you and the others shall remain between us here and us alone." She held his violet gaze resolutely with her silver eyes. "You must promise me,on your honor,and on our friendship."
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Post by Sir Storm Brightblade on Sept 22, 2008 6:29:08 GMT -5
Storm takes his place beside his daimyo and takes a plate of sushi.
"My lady you seemed troubled at all this secrets," Storm gave a small laugh, "I did not tell either one of these two is because it would have not been a surprise! I knew that Tatsamura-dono and Fuuma-dono would have loved to see you and what not a better time through this bickering between our land and the Jovians."
Storm takes a few bites of the sushi. The sushi is particularly sweet today. Storm was never one really one for foreign food but since he joined the shogunate he took a leap of faith and started a new diet. Storm put down the sushi and wiped his face with a rag from pocket.
"Now I believe it is the time to reveal my actions. I sent the lady a message asking for assistance because I knew she was a friend of our land and also a very close friend of mine and there was a word she told me...., " Storm turns to the queen, "oh my lady what was that word you used with me when we were talking about this? My mind has become very clouded lately that I have forgotten. Now as for the Warband as far as I know I thought they were some violent wild men that somehow appeared in the north. Tatsamura-dono could explain more on that. I thought the serious threat as of now was the Jovians?"
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Tatsumura Masamune
Moderator
Shogun of the Tou Fuu Shogunate
"You think this is something, you should hear about the Celestial Porpoise!"
Posts: 335
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on Sept 22, 2008 17:31:48 GMT -5
Masamune took in the Lady's words, and nodded for his servants to leave. After they had cleared the hall, Masamune's eyes flash for a brief moment, and a cold wind blows around the area. The cold cuts to the bone, but only for a moment. After the warmth returns, a low humming noise can be heard ever so slightly. The sound of a strong blowing wind in the distance is the best way to describe it.
"There. Your words can be spoken freely now. The Kami will prevent anything or anyone from hearing what you say, no matter what their means."
Masamune reaches for a bit of rice, eating it, then returning to the conversation at hand.
"The jovians are the main threat at this time. The Warband has been neutrilized, at least for now. My wound, was recieved from one of the vikings during the attempt to wipe them out after they attacked a number of villages near Aethenu."
Masamune looks between the group, gathering his thoughts.
I am glad that you have come to lend us aid during our time of need with the Jovians. Though, I wonder just how much Akururi-san has told you about them. If you would enlighten me with what you have been informed of, I will be honored to fill the gaps."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 23, 2008 22:55:38 GMT -5
Elestirne's gaze flickered briefly to Storm and faintly,very faintly, a smile ghosted across her features. "A surprise to friends long parted is a good thing indeed and it is truly good to see Kotaro and Tatsumura, but a pity that this meeting of friends happens upon the wings of a storm and not during pleasanter circumstances. All the same my friend,given the situation with the...Jovians that you have described to me perhaps it might have been better to tell Tatsumura at least,so that he was forewarned of aid. Our appearance would still have been a surprise I am certain." She sipped at her tea for a moment before again looking to Storm. "The word that I have used for you? 'Otorno?' Her troubled expression lightened some,becoming pensive and thoughtful. "I will tell them its meaning if they wish,but they must ask."
As the servants left and the cold wind swept the hall;Olore's nostrils flared. The silver stallion fluidly rose to his feet and took up a vigilant stand at Elestirne's shoulder. Briefly he touched his muzzle to his lady's cheek. He speaks true. You may speak with ease about what happened to us on the way here,and all else. Elestirne nodded-the single gesture including both Olore and Tatsumura at the same time. She let the latter finish speaking before she spoke. " As Akaruri-Storm told you-and I have already told Kotaro-he sent a message swiftly to my realm; telling of the threat of these...Jovians and the finding of a powerful sceptor and asking-requesting-that I come,asking for my aid. Not from me as Queen,nor of my realm, but of me personally. I knew it must be serious, for Storm would not have sent to me asking my aid unless he thought that you and Mittelmarch would truly need it...and me. That was two weeks ago. As I told Kotaro-and as Storm has seen for himself-I have a force of over 500 elves with me,ready to give aid in what way they can to the friends of their queen whom have called on her for help."
Here she paused briefly,even as she had in the telling to Kotaro. "I did not leave Artanor lightly-and,only for the entreaty of Storm. Had it been anyone but my otorno to send that message I would not have come. Even for friendship I have no wish to be caught in a war." She shook her head slightly. All I know of these Jovians is what Akaruri-Storm's message said:that they are a severe threat to Mittelmarch and that they are fierce and deadly,and posessing structure and discipline... Of this...Warband I knew nothing at all until Kotaro mentioned it."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Sept 23, 2008 23:36:17 GMT -5
The troubled look crept back into her clear eyes. "And now, before I tell you the meaning of otorno-or even introduce you to the elf sitting beside me Tatsumura-these words must be spoken. I will only say them only once to all of you here and I hope you understand why I asked for the hall to be sealed against watching or eavedropping by any means.."
She took a breath,looking to be carefully choosing her words. "Shortly after I and Olore arrived in Mittelmarch I was contacted through magical means. By Telemachus-whom I am sure you at least,Tatsumura, have not forgotten." Something like a ripple ran through her slender frame. "He wishes-begs actually-a meeting with me three nights hence,where the forest meets the mountains away north. What he wants with me and what purpose he can have for wishing this meeting I know not. But it troubles me that he was able to sense I had come-and that he had contacted me... I have not yet decided for certain whether or no I will grant this meeting to him, but I will do so before the end of the three days.
"And there is more... Before Storm otorno's message even reached me I recieved a strong feeling of being needed;of something stirring that should not have been stirred,or of something being found that should not have been found... I know of the sceptor the Jovians found. If it is as powerful an artifact as Storm implied...you could all be in for great trouble-and it would not surprise me if Telemachus tries to get it for himself,and use it to regain power."
A slight shudder coursed her frame. Olore nuzzled her briefly. "Olore and I have our ideas for what he might want...and why he wishes to meet with me-but we will keep our own counsel for now. The last thing that needs be said is...little more than a feeling..but my intuition is seldom wrong... I have felt it since just before recieving my otorno's message in Artanor and it has grown only more intense since arriving here. It is a feeling that something is not....well, that something besides the threat of the Jovians is amiss,is wrong here...and that it involves one of my friends... It was this feeling also-as well as Storm's entreaty-that persuaded me to come..." Her eyes were troubled,shadowed. "How you two shall react to this news I have no way of knowing,but I felt that I should tell you both of Telemachus's contact...
"And this Storm, is yours,"she added,almost as an afterthought. From a hidden pouch she took a pendant-the very one by which she had known the message came from the warrior and the twin of which she still kept-and passed it to him. "I have kept it safe for you."
Theroef,she folded her hands into her lap and waited in silence for Tatsumura and Kotaro's reactions to her news. Authion besides her shifted but remained silent;restraining the questions she knew he had for her. Perhaps after Kotaro and Tatsumura had answered and after she had told of otorno, introduced Authion and gotten up-to-date on what had happened here in the three years that had passed-those bits that she did not already know- there would be time for a question or two of her own..and then perhaps,pleasanter,happier topics... she shook her head faintly,thinking,as she waited.
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Post by Sir Storm Brightblade on Sept 30, 2008 12:52:38 GMT -5
Storm decided to break the silence that befell the room after the queen's cold words about the sorcerer.
"I know I some what spoke out of my authority when telling you this but I think that Fuuma-dono would agree that you have the Fuuma Shinobi if you do decided to see him. I personally will be there to protect you with my life. I need to redeem myself from not saving you those three years ago."
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Tatsumura Masamune
Moderator
Shogun of the Tou Fuu Shogunate
"You think this is something, you should hear about the Celestial Porpoise!"
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on Oct 1, 2008 16:24:57 GMT -5
The very mention of the foul tsukei (sorcerer) Telemachus seemed to etch a look of disgust and anger across Masamune's face. The memory of the battle in the mountain fortress and the subseqent falling duel between the two ran through his mind. The emotions of the event so intense, that the very image of the battle played out for Olore to see.
Masmaune sets down his drinking dish, and then addresses the group once again.
"So, he is still alive. If that is the case, then the reports are true....he has been in contact with the Jovians."
The Shogun clentches his fist, the anger at the very mention of the fallen elf surviving the last three years clearly visable to all now. He looks to Akururi.
"Akururi-san, I understand your desire to protect Elestrine-dono, but against a foe such as Telemachus, our shinobi found be useless...."
"Hmm....we will have to come up with a plan....unfortantly, we can not let you go into what could easily be a trap Elestrine-dono."
Masamune takes a drink from his dish, before setting it down again.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 2, 2008 11:52:07 GMT -5
Elestirne swung her gaze back to Storm. The expression on the elven-queen's fair features was difficult to read, as was the look in her silver-grey eyes. It might have been a mixture of surprise, gratitude and something else that could not be named.
That,my otorno,"she murmured quietly, "shall be decided three days hence, but not here and not now. If I decide to meet him, you can all be assured that I would not go without some form of protection." Her gaze flickered briefly with what might have been a trace of puzzlement as she looked at Storm. "And you have nothing to redeem yourself for Storm. There was nothing you and the others could have done, but what was done. You are fortunate Olore was unable to make himself understood."
She paused a brief moment. "If any of you truly wish to do so-providing,of course, that I decide to meet with him-then....you may accompany,if you feel you must or should. But I do not wish anyone to risk themself for me or on my behalf-regardless of friendship or obligation felt. I do not, cannot know, what Telemachus wants of me, nor what reason he might have for desiring this meeting-though Olore and I have our thoughts, as I have told you already-but I feel this might be between him and I only. I would rather that none of you put yourself in needless danger. Each of you is friend to me and two of you more than that." Her gaze lingered on Storm and Authion briefly. "If this is between Telemachus, Olore and I only I do not wish any of you getting involved and possibly coming to harm for it. Nor do I want him to have a reason to go after any of you to get at me-as he might do."
She listened to Tatsumura speak, her keen eyes perceptively noting his anger. Her eyes were veiled as she watched him,and her face grave as she took in his words. "Yes,he lived through the war-though Olore and I do not think he has many followers left. And if he has been in contact with the Jovians...then mine and Olore's suspicions have merit. He wants the sceptor they found-likely so that he can begin to gain power again..."
Her silver eyes held Tatsumura resolutely. "I understand your...concern-" there was an odd note in her musical voice at the word "-and I realize the risks should I keep this meeting." Her eyes glinted brightly. "However, I do not think he wishes to harm me. And though it is very true that none of you-except yourself my friend-could hope to stand against him, the same is not true of Olore and I."
The glint of fire in her silver eyes was more pronounced now. "Olore is more than a match for Telemachus. All of you-except Authion, my knight-commander,"she indicated the red-haired captain besides her with a faint nod. "-were with when he led the effort to recover me. You all saw the power he revealed when he broke the door,and then Tatsumura's ice-wall. That is but a glimpse of the magic and power in his being." A faint shudder rippled through the elven-queen's slender frame and her eyes flared briefly. She too, was remembering that day. "And I am not powerless either. However,"she gave to Tatsumura the faintest of nods, "I agree with you. A plan must be made." Her gaze shifted to Kotaro. "Kotaro,you have yet to speak. I would hear your thoughts on this as well, not only your lord's."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 2, 2008 12:06:21 GMT -5
Authion, sitting across from Storm, gave the mortal a look of surprise; startled by the grim sincerity of his words. Respect entered the elven-knight's visage and he nodded; beginning to see why, perhaps-or part of it-that his lady-queen had given this mortal a title never before held by an u-edhel.(not-elf) There was something deeper than just loyalty or determination in Storm's words.
"You are not the only one who needs to redeem himself, "the elf said grimly; speaking for the first time. "I was not e'en here for her. Friend to you she is, but Queen she is to me and it is inexcusable that I was not at her side. As I should have been! Especially against that...that..." He gave up trying to find an adequete word for the sorcerer. The anger he had been keeping in check rose to the surface and without thinking he put a hand to his sword. "If the foul one seeks to come near her he'll have me to deal with first, on my life and honor!"
"Authion.." Elestirne's soft voice carried a faint-but firm-warning. The elven-captain blinked;realizing only now that he had half-drawn his sword and risen from his seat in his wrath while talking. Slightly abashed, he bowed first to his queen in apoligy, then the Lord Tatsumura before returning to his seat. "My lady-queen,Lord Tatsumura, my apoligies." As he sat he was clearly heard to say firmly, "If my queen goes to meet this...fiend...it will not be without me at her side."
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Oct 2, 2008 12:09:43 GMT -5
Kotaro dipped his head. "I know that Telemachus is a powerful adversary. However, I cannot help but wonder if he has ulterior motives behind his association with the Jovians. An enemy as devious as he would have to have some other reason beyond the scepter, as powerful as it is."
He shook his head. "...But this is just idle speculation. There is little we can do while we sit here."
"My lord," he said, turning to Tatsumura. "I request permission to accompany the Lady to her destination. I want to know if my ruminations hold any merit."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 2, 2008 12:36:57 GMT -5
Olore snorted, and turned his head to capture both Storm and Authion in his depthless gaze. His words were heard only by they;his voice grim and sharp.
Sit you down Authion knight-commander, ere you shame your queen! If ever you were to face the fallen one your wrath over what he did would blind you and he would overcome you easily. And Storm is more than mere friend to Elestirne, as you know full well. Humble your pride and control your anger for when it is needed! As I have told you once already-and now tell you Storm, otorno to my lady-you are not the only one that cares for-nor whom is fond of-the lady-queen. And neither of your shames-real or imagined-is greater than mine. I who was unable to prevent her capture, and could have done so. I am before both of you on a claim to Telemachus, and if he seeks to harm her again he will not escape me, nor my wrath. That I swear.
The grim tone softened some. But it is well that she has such as you at her side in need. Do not doubt yourselves or your valor but trust me: the fallen one is beyond either of you and it would mean your lives to seek direct battle with him. How would that then, help Elestirne? Mark you, Authion, your loss of control has distressed your queen. Tenderly, the stallion touched his muzzle to her cheek and nuzzled her.
Then, unexpectedly, he turned his head to Tatsumura and lightly touched his muzzle to the warrior's shoulder;speaking to him this time. Through the half-mortal's anger, the silver stallion had at last seen how the battle between the socerer and Tatsumura had played out three years ago, and nodded;having an answer to a question he had had since then. His words to Tatsumura, if gentle, were nonetheless firm.
Windwalker...let go your anger. It helps nothing. What is past is past and what done,done. Anger shortens healing and that you need. And you must be able to think clearly to come up with a plan my lady will accept, for-as she said-she wishes none of you to put yourselves in danger for her, and would not take it easily if one or more of you were harmed doing so. She might likely,even blame herself were that to happen. And windwalker...friend...remember the feeling she spoke of to you all. It is...possible that our true reason for being here may not be the Jovians but, rather, Telemachus. Our business with that one has been unfinished since the day we recovered my lady.
Olore's next words were addressed to all; his voice ringing like a bell in their minds. I agree with my lady and Tatsumura-windwalker both. None of you-nor any forces you may command- can match the fallen one. And yet-were Elestirne and I to decide to meet him-it would be unwise to do so without others at least close by... Yet, if this is between him and us only-as I too, feel it might be-I also, wish none of you to come to harm needlessly putting yourselves into danger you could have avoided. We shall plan, yes-but we have this day and the next to do so, and to think of a good plan. Do know that, whatever plan is made,you will not separate me from my lady. I will stand with her in meeting Telemachus-if it is her choice that we do so-and woe to him if he tries anything. I will not be so...passive, as I was our first meeting and he will learn what it means to anger me, or to threaten my lady. The stallion's deep,starry blue eyes seemed to glow or burn,and the luminence around his coat brightened.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 3, 2008 16:15:18 GMT -5
Elestirne dipped her head briefly and faintly to Kotaro in return. "Certainly, he has other reasons,other motives," she murmured quietly. "His contact of me proves it so and it would be unwise to assume-or hope- that he has but one reason, one motive. It is likely safe to say, however, that one of his main reasons is because of the scepter. As Olore said to me on our way here...Telemachus likely lost much of his power and his following after the war. He will be wanting to regain what he lost, as well as a means to rise to power to cause trouble again. If the scepter offers any chance of that...he will attempt to sieze it-as well as anything else that might help him. If he has not done so already,"she added-a touch of grimness in her voice. She seemed a little pale and her eyes and face were shadowed with faint pain,but she continued.
She let her gaze fall alternately on each of the four men in turn;registering surprise when it fell on Kotaro. "As I have already said, I wish for none of you to put yourselves in danger. Olore will certainly accompany if I decide to keep this tryst and find out what the sorcerer wants with me, but the rest of you...." Elestirne shook her head faintly. Her midnight hair shimmered with silver as it caught the light. "I do not want Telemachus to have a reason to go after any of you. I do not wish for any of you to get involved, nor to risk yourselves needlessly and possibly get hurt doing so. If Telemachus wants to meet me alone, then I would rather meet him alone-wih the exception of Olore-than to have any of you risking yourselves just because you feel you must. And especially not for me."
"My Queen, no." Authion said firmly;almost rising from his seat again. His emerald eyes glittered. "I'll not let you meet this...fiend alone-regardless of your powers, or that of honored Olore's." He dipped his head in deep respect to the silver stallion before continueing. "My sword and service are pledged to you, to help and protect you. To not do so...would be to forsake my oath. And I would sooner kill myself than do that, as you well know. And, as Lord Tatsumura said, this could easily be a trap. What if he intends to try to capture you again? No Elestirne, my Queen, I cannot permit this."
Olore spoke on the heels of the elven-knight;his words only for her. His long mane rippled like liquid light as he tossed his head. It is even as you said in Artanor Lady. Friendship is not measured by obligation. You have helped them in the past and are here again-unexpected-ready to help them a second time. They want to help you-but not out of obligation,nor loyalty. For friendship. It is not even that they feel they have to-or should-protect you. It is friendship and only that. Were it one of them in your place you would feel the same. They care for you lady, and are your friends. To Tatsumura and Kotaro you are friend, sister-in-arms and ally; to Storm...you are Queen, friend and oselle; to Authion...you are Queen, friend, ward and more. You cannot expect them to just let you go to meeting with a known enemy all alone-not even with I at your side-for you would not stand quietly by if one of them were preparing to do the same and you well know it.
Elestirne seemed to sigh,and closed her eyes briefly;lifting a slender hand to her temples. The faint look of pain etched on her face was more pronounced now, and her features seemed to tighten with it as she seemed to pale a little more. Olore noticed instantly and nosed her worriedly,tenderly-but she did not aknowledge the gesture. A sense of wearied reluctance and worry seemed to hang about her;mingling with the pain on her features. For a long moment she sat thus,and, when she at last opened her eye again the lovely silver-grey orbs were clouded with the same pain, worry and reluctance that touched her fair features.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 3, 2008 16:37:31 GMT -5
"My Queen?" Authion voiced a worried question-noticing almost as swiftly as Olore her actions.
She raised a hand slightly to silence him-the other remained on her temples. "Very well,"she said after another long pause. "Since we do not know what the fallen one wants or is up to, the best way to do so is to find out. And, since he begs a meeting with me the best way to find out seems to be for Olore and I to keep this meeting with him. But I have not intentions of 'walking into danger blindly' and had not since before I told all of you of his contact.
"As I have already agreed with Tatsumura, a plan must be made. And, little though I like the idea of any of you-you especially, my otorno.."she looked directly to Storm with pain evident in her eyes "-of getting involved and throwing yourselves needlessly into danger there is, my friends, little I could do to stop you from doing so-though I would blame myself for any hurt you recieved in doing so, and feel it as though it were my own. I could indeed, command two of you to stay behind and be safe-but I would not; knowing that, were it one of you in my place I would feel exactly the same as you. I...cannot prevent any of you from accompanying Olore and I...but I truly do not want any of you risking yourselves and getting hurt for me-especially since you, Tatsumura, are already injured and could have easily been killed in the battle with Telemachus three years ago."
Her voice was as soft as leaves, and pained. "As I could have been also. Or the rest of you-excepting Authion, who was not here then." A visible shudder rippled her frame and her eyes were haunted as she remembered her encounters with the sorcerer those three years ago. Again Olore nosed her worriedly,and this time she reacted; stroking his silken neck with the hand that had been at her temple,while the other crept to her side,below the table;where the ghosts of old wounds lingered-though only memory now and long healed. The pain in her face was plain as she stroked Olore's neck silently;waiting for them to speak.
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Oct 3, 2008 22:03:57 GMT -5
"If I am to die, my lady, it will be in battle. I will not stand impotently by while you go to face Telemachus. My sword is yours to command."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 6, 2008 14:46:52 GMT -5
Elestirne blinked slowly as she looked at Kotaro. The faint surprise that had been on her face earlier was clearly visible now;even driving the haunted,pained look from her eyes somewhat.
"Kotaro,"she started,then paused a moment with a faint shake of her head. "If you are resolved on this I cannot stop you from coming-any of you,"she added;giving each of the others a brief glance before her eyes returned to Kotaro. "But I do not command you. Nor do you hold any loyalty or fealty to me. It is for your Lord Tatsumura to say whether you come or no-not I." Her gaze shifted to take in all of them once more. "I would much rather that none of you risk yourselves,but if you are all adamant on this, and resolved not to let me go alone-not even with Olore at my side-then I suppose that is how it will be,must be."
Pain came back into her eyes then as she continued. "But,given the feeling I have told you all of:the sense that something has happened,or will happen-and that it will concern one or more of my friends....I want none of you in harm's way. Neither intuition nor foresight has told me anything further,but I do not wish harm or danger coming to any of you if it is in my power to prevent it. And I worry that,if you insist on accompanying me-should I keep this meeting-that it might find you. For I would not put it beyond Telemachus to go after any of you to get at me. An escort did not avail me against him three years ago when I sought to warn and seek aid of Oron on Mittelmarch's behalf and I do not think it would avail me now. Besides...in his contact,he asked of me to come alone and said that he would come alone as well. I am too wise to trust that of him though..."something flickered in her eyes. "Perhaps it would be better not to go entirely alone...but it must seem as though I am..." Her hand came back to her temples as her eyes closed again;a look of uneasy pain flashing across her features.
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Kotaro
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Post by Kotaro on Oct 6, 2008 16:24:58 GMT -5
"My lady? Is everything alright?"
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 7, 2008 13:42:17 GMT -5
Olore noticed instantly the play of pain that flashed across Elestirne's face-though she sought to conceal it-and the reluctance and worry in her eyes. He bent his proud head to nuzzle her again as he hand left off stroking him to return to her temple. He kept his gaze on her; knowing what must be going through her mind, and seeing it as she thought it.
She was thinking of Telemachus and their encounters with him three years previous, as well as the other happenings of that journey. The stallion's skin twitched as though he were trying to rid himself of something unpleasant. Telemachus...he snorted inaudibly to himself in disgust.
Elestirne had been reluctant to leave Artanor-even for her otorno's message and remembered friendship-and Olore knew why. It was not only that she did not wish to be caught in a war that was not her's-it was that she did not want to cross paths with Telemachus again. She did not want to meet the sorcerer again-had hoped never to-and again be reminded of her encounter with him, and of one years previous,with a disturbingly similar fallen elf.
She was no coward-she would not hesitate to face him again, and had the strength and ability to do so-it was only that she had hoped she would not need to. The sorcerer's contact had shaken her more than she was willing to admit, he knew, and-though she may not like the idea of meeting with him-she would go to it if need be. She was fully aware of the danger and risks, and accepted them. She would even rather go alone rather than have any of her friends, or her own, put themselves in danger and harm's way-even though none of them would allow her to.
She was worried for her friends because of the feeling she had had before leaving Artanor, which still lingered-and rightly so-for her intuition and foresight were very seldom wrong. And it had been this feeling-even more than Storm's message-that had swayed her decision to come. As nothing else would or could of. This very reasonable worry and uneasiness-and reluctance-put a strain on her emotionally, though she was trying to keep a strong,impassive front. Tatsumura's wound helped nothing. And the anger and hostility that still simmered in the room, plus the emotions and memories of her past encounter with Telemachus-not to mention, empath that she was, she was almost literally feeling the pain of Tatsumura's wound as much as Tatsumura himself... Olore shook his head faintly. No wonder she was looking wearied,pained, and pale.
With a gentle snort, Olore folded his legs and settled himself protectively between his lady and Tatsumura; touching her mind lightly with strength and sympathy in a silent reassurance. His depthless eyes held the four men in an unblinking gaze. Enough talk of grim things. Time enough tomorrow to sit in council again to discuss and plan for the meeting with the fallen one and debate what shall be done,what measures taken. Surely you remember what my lady is? Tatsumura should at least. Or have you all forgotten? His words were heard only by they.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Oct 7, 2008 14:25:40 GMT -5
Authion actually blanched at Olore's words;the proud elven-knight flushing with guilt and shame as he looked from the stallion to his queen's pale,strained face. He had forgotten.
Elestirne was an empathic healer-one whom could heal through their own,innate magic and strength-not herbs or spells. It was a very rare gift and ability. But there was more to it than simply healing. Empaths could feel the pain and emotions of others. And if that pain was strong-or intense-enough...they would, and could, feel it as though it were their own.. And his queen,being seated next to Tatsumura...and the lord being wounded and in pain...she clearly must be feeling it. No wonder her first instinct when confronted with those in pain was to heal them-she suffered with them.. And, his anger, and Tasumura's..and the tense atmosphere and grim discussion.... Authion wilted further with shame;his anger and resentment disipating like smoke. Gods forgive me...
The elven-knight had truly forgotten about his lady's lesser-known ability. Empaths were so rare that Elestirne was the first among the elves in the realm in thousands of years... Chagrin filled him. If this is what she goes through I am glad I am not one. No wonder she looks so strained-and no wonder she'd rather go alone if she has to meet Telemachus!he realized in sudden understanding. Not to mention she must be weary from the long journey without adding all of this on top of it...
He looked at the other three in turn-particularily Tatsumura. "Lord,we are causing my lady physical pain and distress-you from your anger at..Tele..the fiend, and your injury and I from my anger. Morever,we have sat here in council hours and her and I have had a long journey to reach you. Perhaps we ought to retire for the night? As honored Olore said,there will be time enough tomorrow to speak on the meeting with the...fiend..and to think of a plan for what shall be done. I would spare my lady-queen more discomfort or pain." He began to rise from his seat.
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Tatsumura Masamune
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Post by Tatsumura Masamune on Oct 8, 2008 16:28:20 GMT -5
Masamune looks to Olore after hearing his words. He spoke truth, but lacked an understanding.
You do speak words of wisdom Olore, but you speak words to relate to a gaijin. I am Rokugani, and an offense such that I have had from that foul tsukei, can never be forgotten until repaid. Bushido demands it be repaid. To return my honor......
Masamune looked back to the group, focusing on Authion after he had finished speaking.
"You are correct. Let us rest on this matter for now. Akururi-san, if you would be so kind to show Elestrine-dono, Olore-sama, and Authion-san where they may sleep."
His eyes flashed once more, this time, the sound of the wind faded away.
"If you will excuse me, I am in need of some fresh air."
Masamune stood up from the table, bowing to everyone, then made his way up the steps. Out of site from the rest, he made his way up two more flights, then down a hall, where he crossed an enclosed bridge, leading to a seperate tower.
As he climbed the tower, the memory of his failed battle seemed to overwelm him. Though it would be considered by many a great battle, with no clear winner in the end. He had failed to defeat the tsukei, and now, that same foul beast he failed to defeat, had returned.
At the top, a large pile of wood with several hanging lamps of burning oil and a few torches nearby, sat in the middle of the platform. He took up a seating postion, facing in the direction of Mittelmarch, which could be seen in the distance easily from 300 feet up. He closed his eyes, and several ice orbs appeared in front of him. As he began his meditation, the orbs seemed to dance around, sometimes striking one another, and other times, encircling the Shogun.
What seemed to only be something to rest for a bit, turned into a session that lasted until the moon raised high in the sky. Obviously, Masamune had missed the dinner with his guest.
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