Editing Memories of a Stone Wall (section)

===Act XXII: Blood Magic===
:>They had gathered up several of the Shiba to aid them.
:>Kitsuki-san's plan was simple.
:>Check each floor, room by room. Starting from the bottom and working our way up.
:>Our last search was hazardous because we had no idea what he looked like.
:>We'd try to be subtle, so he would not go to ground and evade us entirely.
:>Now we know his face.
:>We will catch him, for certain.
:>Since we were going to be loud about this, I went back to my room to grab my Katana and Tetsubo.
:>Naomi was there with the little ones.
:>And Oka-san and Ashitaka-san.
:>There were bowls of water placed all around the room.
:>I nodded in approval.
:>I'll leave them in your care then.
:>Oka-san glanced at my armor on it's stand.
:>Do you not have time...?
:>We are moving now.
:>Ishigaki-kun will be fine mother. 
:>Daiko and Tetsute were too young to grasp what was going on, but they could sense the tension in the adults. Ashitaka knew all too well.
:>Still, my children did their best to be brave. Looking up at me with wide, serious eyes.
:>I knelt to tousle their hair.
:>I have to leave for a bit, but I promise: Daddy will always come back home.
:>Naomi nodded.
:>I gave her a smile, pretending to be fooled by her brave face.
:>And left.
:>Kitsuki-san had memorized the floor plans of the entire castle.
:>We searched in a pattern that would force the Tsukai to go past us, if he tried to flee.
:>When we moved on to the second floor we had to leave three Shiba at the stairway, in case he came down from above while we were deeper in the second floor.
:>We did the same when we got to the third floor.
:>That's where we found him.
:>His eyes widened as he noticed us.
:>We were all armed, with three armed and armored Shiba.
:>Kitsuki-san leveled his fan to make his accusation.
:>But the Tsukai was faster.
:>With a speed born of desperation, he drew his wakizashi and cut his hand in one motion.
:>The world became a blood red haze.
:>What the hell?
:>Damn, I can't see anything!
:>Calm down!

:>I gripped my tetsubo in a defensive stance, ready to ward off attack from any angle.
:>I tried to block out the shouting, and the screams of confused courtiers.
:>I heard the Tsukai, chanting another prayer.
:>Shitshitshit.
:>I took a few faltering steps in his direction, but I still couldn't see anything.
:>Does anyone know where he is? Mantis-san?
:>Toshiro-sama?
:>Monkey?
:>The Tsukai had stopped chanting.
:>Ishigaki-san?
:>Yeah, think I do, Kitsuki-san.
:>Good, where is he?
:>Oh, before you answer that there's one other thing I want to know.
:>Did Naomi tell you I had my way with her the other day? I think your new child might be mine.
:>I had no idea why that slimy Dragon had to pick this particular moment to commit seppuku, but I would be more than happy to help him do it.
:>As I pulled back my tetsubo some small part of me realized that was wrong.
:>The Maho spell was still interfering with my vision. Blind as I was I had no hope of hitting that damn Kitsuki.
:>So I tossed my tetsubo aside.
:>If I could just get my hands on him, he wouldn't be able to get away.
:>I lunged for where I had last heard his voice.
:>Caught something. A Haori, it felt like.
:>Gotcha.
:>The Dragon let out a surprised cry as I seized him, confirming for me I had my hands on the right one.
:>I have no idea why he sounded so surprised. What did he think was going to happen, saying something like that to me?
:>His cry cut off as my hands found his throat and squeezed.
:>I heard some of the others ask him what was wrong, but that didn't matter.
:>Hands pulled at me, but that didn't matter.
:>What mattered was killing this bastard.
:>Messily.
:>My thumbs slid up his face, I was going to pop his eyes.
:>...Maho...!
:>..gaki...
:>Sp... damn...
:>Oh right... there WAS a Maho-Tsukai around, wasn't there...?
:>The others were all worried about me killing the Dragon. Fools.
:>Shit, if he got away he might hurt Naomi.
:>Goddamnit you fools go after the Tsukai!
:>I threw the dragon away so they'd listen.
:>I could finish once they left.

:>Instead I heard Toshiro chanting.
:>The hell is he doing?
:>He sounded rushed, that's for sure.
:>Damnit, the Dragon can't wait. 
:>It was still dark, but he was coughing and sucking in air pretty loudly.
:>I knocked someone over heading towards him.
:>And then I felt calm.
:>It was strange. I really could not say why I had been so upset.
:>Yes, Kitsuki-san had done something horrible. I was going to have to make him pay somehow.
:>But losing myself to rage and murdering him here and now was not the best way to go about it.
:>Ah, the mist was finally clearing up.
:>I looked around.
:>Kitsuki-san was on the floor, a few feet from me.
:>His face was quite purple.
:>All around were a sea of shocked faces.
:>And a heavy weight on my shoulders.
:>I glanced back.
:>There was a Monkey on my back.
:>Odd.
:>How long will he stay like that?
:>Mantis-san asked Toshiro.
:>Hopefully long enough the Maho spell wears off.
:>Who are you talking about Toshiro?
:>YOU, YOU TWIT!
:>Oh.
:>We really should go after that Tsukai, I think. Do you not agree?
:>I helped Kitsuki-san up.
:>You wear your katana. Good.
:>I will write a formal letter of challenge to your lord when I get the chance. 
:>He stared at me in disbelief.
:>Monkey's voice came out from behind and above me
:>Okay, Toshiro-sama? Don't ever cast that spell on him again.
:>Emotionless Ishigaki-san is way scarier than frothing at the mouth murderous Ishigaki-san.
:>I wiped at my mouth. I really had been frothing.
:>How unsightly.

:>The others rushed outside, even Monkey once he climbed off of me.
:>I felt no need to do so, however.
:>As I arrived I saw the Shiba we had left guarding the stairs picking themselves up off the ground shakily.
:>He cut himself, then I felt such pain!
:>I am very sorry, Kuni-sama!
:>Toshiro waved it away, and everyone began to rush downstairs.
:>I kept pace with Toshiro.
:>No need to rush, after all.
:>He looked at me.
:>The expression on his face was very odd.
:>I nodded to the others.
:>They are just wearing themselves out needlessly.
:>Such impatience.
:>...and this is why I don't like to use that spell.
:>Hmm? What is the mater, Toshiro?
:>He looked up, with just his eyes.
:>Nothing, Ishigaki-san. Nothing at all.
:>Would you mind letting me on your back? My foot is making these stairs a pain in the ass.
:>Of course not, Toshiro. We have been friends for a long time. 
:>I got down a few steps below him and he hopped on me.
:>I could sense his impatience, so I decided I would make haste, after all.
:>I still thought it unnecessary. But I would do so for my friend.
:>The courtyard was in quite the uproar, many people being far too upset.
:>Mantis-san saw me and yelled.
:>Get over here! What the hell is wrong with you?!
:>Nothing. We had many guards at the gates, did they fail to stop the Tsukai?
:>YES!
:>He pointed.
:>Bushels of rice had been stacked up along the edge of the wall, making a staircase.
:>How did he do that in such a short time?
:>He didn't! 
:>I saw a Shiba slamming his head into the dirt over and over again in front of Kitsuki-san.
:>Oh. So someone else stacked them up for him, and none of the guards who saw the rice bales found them suspicious.
:>Kitsuki-san joined us.
:>We will have to pursue. The Shiba will fan out and search, we will try to follow his tracks.
:>We must make haste.
:>He looked at me.
:>H. A. S. T. E. Do you understand, Ishigaki-san?
:>Yes, I do. I am not stupid.
:>I just do not see the point.

:>Was not the spell Naomi cast a divination?
:>I know the Kami explained to us who we were chasing, but did they not predict we would face them at the boat?
:>The others exchanged wide eyed glances.
:>Surely, they were not surprised?
:>Mantis-san pinched the bridge of his nose.
:>How long did you say he was going to be like this?
:>An hour.
:>AN HOUR!?
:>I could cast it on you too, if you're that upset.
:>No thanks.
:>Just blast that Tsukai before he can do something like that again.
:>Let's go.
:>Ishigaki-san, keep carrying Toshiro, we still have to catch them.
:>Alright. 
:>It was a lovely winters day.
:>The fresh tracks in the snow made it quite easy to follow him.
:>I rather enjoyed the sound of it crunching under our feet.
:>Damn. We didn't even think about how easy it would be to follow him.
:>We sent the Shiba to scout around ahead of us though. In the hopes to find his accomplices or even just cut him off.
:>Yeah. Still a few more bodies would be welcome.
:>Mantis-san was likely worried because he had not had time to don his full armor.
:>Monkey did not have much armor to begin with.
:>I would have to rely on my teachings to protect me from harm. 
:>Well, I would be fine, I'm sure.
:>Toshiro.
:>Yes?
:>You said the Maho-Tsukai cast a spell on me, didn't you?
:>Yeah he did.
:>Do you have any idea what it did?
:>It made you mad with rage, don't you remember trying to kill Kitsuki-san?
:>I do. Mad, you say?
:>So then, none of the rest of you heard him confess to assaulting Naomi and suggesting our child was in fact his?
:>Everyone stopped dead in their tracks and turned to look at me.
:>No, Ishigaki. He did not say that.
:>Oh.
:>Well then, I am very sorry Kitsuki-san. I will NOT be writing a letter of challenge to your lord.
:>I would bow, but that might be rough for Toshiro. Could you wait a bit for that?
:>Do- don't worry about it Ishigaki-san.
:>You were the target of Maho, we were simply unprepared for it. As much my fault as yours.
:>That is certainly true. Well, I am glad we could put that behind us.

:>We neared the beach.
:>It was still early in the winter and the sea had not yet frozen over.
:>We saw them, working to knock chunks of ice off of their boat.
:>You see? I told you we did not have to rush.
:>Those were what were known as 'Angry Glares.' I was certain of it.
:>Set me down, Ishigaki.
:>Very well.
:>Only then did I realize I had not bothered to retrieve my tetsubo after I threw it down.
:>So I readied my katana, instead. 
:>Toshiro glanced at me.
:>And pulled out a scroll.
:>A tetsubo, formed from the earth and studded with jade, arose before me.
:>Oh, thank you.
:>I am much better with this than I am with a Katana.
:>They had not yet noticed us
:>Mantis-san asked.
:>How do we want to do this?
:>Toshiro answered him.
:>By throwing a great ball of flame at them.
:>It burst among them, and set their boats on fire.
:>I vote we scare the shit out them by killing a few before they know we're here.
:>Well, what are you staring at me for? Get down there and kill those bastards!
:>Hai, Toshiro-sama!
:>Magical weapon in hand, I lead the charge.
:>The thugs, expecting to flee by boat were lightly armored.
:>There was an astounding assortment of weapons though.
:>Masakari, Katana, No-dachi, Nagamaki, Yari. One had a Kusari-gama.
:>I settled for striking down any that came too close. In time, they would all be dead anyway.
:>My earthen tetsubo shattered bones, pulped organs, and tore great chunks of flesh with its jade studs.
:>I was struck from behind by a No-dachi, but thanks to my training it failed to bite deeply.
:>Monkey was kind enough to remove that thug's head for me.
:>I caught sight of the Tsukai. So did Mantis-san.
:>Another blast of flame tossed aside a few thugs, clearing a path for him.
:>He moved in, and quickly sliced his kama through the legs of the Tsukai.
:>Oop, here comes some more for me. 
:>I caught the swing of the nagamaki on the length of my tetsubo, and shoved forcefully.
:>Then I struck while the thug was getting back into position.

:>I felt and heard his hip shater as my blow took him the side.
:>He crumpled, bawling like a child.
:>It was distracting, so I crushed his skull with another quick swing.
:>Kitsuki-san and Monkey were fighting back to back, cutting down their foes. 
:>Mantis-san brought his kama down on the Tsukai before he could rise.
:>The Tsukai twitched once, then was still.
:>Meanwhile, a space had opened up around me.
:>Everywhere I cared to turn, thugs that had been inching toward me backpedaled.
:>It was then the Kasuri-gama came at my head.
:>I held my tetsubo out, and the chain wrapped around it's head and went taut.
:>The wielder tried to pull the weapon from my hands.
:>I jerked back.
:>He lost.
:>He had the good sense to simply release the weapon before I pulled him off his feet.
:>Then, as I was unwrapping my tetsubo, several thugs rushed at me.
:>I had been expecting that. 
:>None of their attacks we able to reach me.
:>Monkey and Kitsuki-san cut them down.
:>One last blast of flame, and it was over.
:>I think Toshiro killed more than all the rest of us combined.
:>I walked over to where the Tsukai lay in pool of blood.
:>He was quite dead.
:>Kitsuki-san came up beside me.
:>Mantis-san, in the future could you try to pull your blows when attacking someone who may have valuable information?
:>I DID damnit! 
:>He just used up too much blood working all his spells...
:>Kitsuki-san sighed.
:>Well, this was far from the smooth operation I had anticipated, but we were successful nonetheless.
:>He used Maho in full view of many witnesses after all.
:>Mantis-san produced a bag. The shape of it told me it was for a very specific thing.
:>He took out some special lacquered chopsticks.
:>Used them to grab the Tsukai's top knot.
:>Lifted his head.
:>And cut if off.
:>Then used the chopsticks to place it in his bag.
:>Should I get you a board so you can mount your trophy properly?
:>It's just to show that we got him.
:>Alright. 
:>We returned to the Castle.

:>As we walked Kitsuki-san spoke up.
:>Well, at least he used blood magic in front of all those witnesses.
:>It now means this case falls under the mandate of the Jade Magistrates.
:>Ah, that was good then.
:>It meant that Toshiro or Naomi would be the final authority on the outcome of this matter.
:>Their word would carry the full weight of Imperial Law, and none present would be able to gainsay them.
:>In his current state, the Tsukai would not be able to give a proper confession, so the testimony of the witnesses would be needed to confirm Maho, and thus, our authority.
:>While our testimony alone would have carried great weight, the other witnesses assured not even Shoji would be able to object.
:>Hmm. Shoji.
:>Yes, I still did not like him.
:>He was far too flawed and emotional. Easily provoked, if one knew where to press.
:>We arrived.
:>Mantis-san handed off the Tsukai's head to an eta and a board was brought forth to display it on.
:>We went and got purified while the Shiba requested the presence of Shoji, the Mantis delegates, and those who were in the room when the Tsukai cast his spell.
:>I was going to go fetch my wife, but Monkey ran off yelling he would do so instead. 
:>Always rushing about. People really did need to take the time to enjoy things more.
:>Prayers were said, and water poured upon me.
:>It was very cold. Refreshing even.
:>Then some salt was thrown.
:>I took a moment to appreciate the complexity of that part.
:>There was a correct way to do it, just as there was a correct way to do everything.
:>Yet the correct way was to make it seem there was no correct way.
:>It must be difficult, to be so deliberately sloppy.
:>It made me wonder about the way Toshiro threw salt. It looked even more sloppy when he did it. 
:>Was his technique better, or worse, than these priests?
:>Mantis-san tugged on me.
:>Oh yes, we had to go and announce our verdict.
:>As I entered the courtyard the Mantis delegates were just arriving.
:>Shoji, the witnesses, and Ayame were already there.

:>Someone had created an impromptu courtroom.
:>Really it was just a patch of white sand, and an officer's chair in place of the dias upon which the judge would sit.
:>Ayame was kneeling on the white sand.
:>She was wearing a white kimono.
:>Shoji was sitting on the chair.
:>So, he thought he was going to be passing judgment on Ayame.
:>The others exchanged glances. He was moving too quickly, making assumptions as he went.
:>How typical of him.
:>The Mantis Delegates took their place.
:>The Karo stepped forward and unrolled a scroll.
:>But Naomi cut him off.
:>Wait. This matter is no longer for Shoji-sama to judge.
:>What?
:>Kitsuki-san pointed to a courtier at random.
:>Come forth please.
:>The Courtier did. A golden haired Kitsu, by the mon on his Kimono.
:>At a gesture from Toshiro the Eta brought out the head board.
:>This man here, did you see him work magic today?
:>I did.
:>Can you describe what you saw?
:>Hai. He took out his wakizashi, cut his palm and bled. He spoke blasphemous prayers. Then the room was plunged into a blood red mist.
:>Thank you.
:>You, please.
:>The Soshi woman who asked me about the Dot Battle.
:>I would ask the same questions of you.
:>She nodded. Yes, I saw the same thing as the honorable Lion. He worked blood magic.
:>Kitsuki-san looked around. 
:>There are many courtiers here, shall I continue to go through them one by one, Shoji-sama?
:>Shoji looked upset by this turn of events.
:>That will not be necessary.
:>He stood up from the chair and joined the audience.
:>Toshiro sat down. Naomi was Shoji's daughter, so Toshiro was the better choice for the appearance of impartiality.
:>Toshiro motioned for the Karo to proceed, but the Karo waited until Shoji nodded to do so.
:>He then read the scroll.
:>It was Ayame's confession.
:>Mantis-san whispered beside me.
:>That bastard didn't waste any time did he?
:>Trying to wrap this all up his own the second we were out of his hair.

:>I did not nod in agreement. 
:>Though Mantis-san's assessment of the situation was accurate, it was just rude to speak out loud during formal proceedings like this.
:>The confession was quite damning. Ayame admitted her love for her slain Senpai, her desire for revenge. She made no mention of her dreams, or the charm.
:>She was adamant however, that she acted alone, deceiving her fellow Shiba to get close enough to kill Yoritomo Yohko.
:>The new head of the Mantis delegation nodded, though slowly.
:>Very well then. I have no choice but to accept that this woman acted alone, however...
:>Toshiro held up his hand, forestalling any further comment
:>I've got questions I must ask before I render judgment. So hold on.
:>Shoji erupted.
:>What could you possibly need to know? She has confessed to everything!
:>Toshiro ignored him.
:>Shiba Ayame.
:>Hai.
:>You didn't mention this in your confession, but you said that you were having nightmares lately, is that right?
:>...hai.
:>And did you do something about that?
:>I... I bought a charm to help me sleep better.
:>From who?
:>She looked down.
:>Then at Shoji.
:>Don't look at him. I'M the one asking you questions here.
:>Who did you buy the charm from?
:>That man there. 
:>She pointed to the headboard.
:>Hida Naomi-san, you confirmed that the charm had Maho cast upon it?
:>I did.
:>Both Shoji and the Yoritomo seemed to be getting more and more agitated as this went on.
:>So in reality, you are wrong Shiba Ayame.
:>A chorus of shouts broke out. Shoji, the Yoritomo and Ayame all protested.
:>NO! I did it, I killed her!
:>Are you saying the Phoenix bear no blame for this incident at all? This is absurd! That one is the daughter of the Lord, she is clearly lying on her father's behalf!
:>Cease this charade, that woman has disgraced the Clan!
:>SHUT. UP.
:>Toshiro stood abruptly, knocking the chair back.
:>Maho was used by that man.
:>He pointed.
:>To kill Yoritomo Yohko. 
:>The Maho in question affected the mind of Shiba Ayame.

:>This means her fate is MINE to decide. I have the authority here, NOT ANY OF YOU.
:>Toshiro glared as protests died.
:>The Yoritomo tried again.
:>She still despised our Clan, it was her own weakness that allowed the spell to effect her in the first place!
:>Toshiro laughed.
:>I hope you have a good champion then.
:>What?
:>I personally witnessed the Tsukai cast a spell on him.
:>Toshiro pointed to me.
:>And I know now what that spell did.
:>It altered his perception so drastically he tried to kill someone who has been his friend and companion for several years.
:>The Yoritomo looked quite surprised by that.
:>H-how do you know that was the same spell as was used on her?
:>It is my business to know such things. I am a Jade Magistrate. Try to keep up; I hate having to state the obvious.
:>The Mantis looked at me.
:>I smiled politely at him.
:>I want you to know, I do not feel very upset.
:>All the same, I must ask you to withdraw your comment about my weakness.
:>He looked at me.
:>I looked back.
:>Sweat began to form on his brow.
:>Are you feeling well, Yoritomo-sama? It is winter, yet you are sweating. 
:>He sputtered a bit. 
:>Oh dear, I think he believes I was insulting him.
:>Oh no! Please do not misunderstand me! I am only concerned for your health! 
:>I have no doubt your position places great strain on you, Yoritomo-sama! 
:>Perhaps you should get some more rest?
:>I noticed that several of Crane were staring at me as well.
:>Not just the courtiers, but the Yojimbo as well.
:>One was frowning intently, with his eyes narrowed. His mon told me he was a Kakita.
:>However, they dropped their gazes when I looked at them.
:>Odd.
:>The Yoritomo took note of this as well.
:>He looked back at his fellow Mantis.
:>Then he bowed to me.
:>I must apologize. I had no idea that Maho could be so... potent.
:>I waved it away.
:>It is no great surprise. Such knowledge is dirty, and should only be studied by those who must know these things to fulfill their duty.
:>He sat back down heavily.
:>Toshiro nodded.
:>Good.

:>If you're all done trying to second guess me, I'll pass my judgment now.
:>Yoritomo Yohko was slain by that guy, there on the board.
:>Shiba Ayame was just a tool he used to do it.
:>Shiba Ayame, you are not responsible for what happened. 
:>Stand up, and get changed. White doesn't suit your complexion.
:>She rose, unsteady.
:>Naomi went to her side to help steady her.
:>The Yoritomo glared at Shoji.
:>Still, this happened under YOUR roof!
:>The Phoenix were deliberately lax with their security!
:>Kitsuki-san spoke up.
:>Excuse me a moment, Yoritomo-san.
:>You, yes you.
:>He pointed with his fan.
:>Could you step forward for a moment?
:>A Mantis that had been staying near the back came forward.
:>May I ask your name?
:>Tsuruchi Agito.
:>You know this man, don't you?
:>He gestured to the head board.
:>What, No!
:>I've never seen that samurai in my life!
:>Ooooh?
:>You don't remember meeting him?
:>No! Of course I don't remember meeting him!
:>That is a shame, one should remember the first time they meet their friends.
:>What! He is not my friend!
:>Oh, an acquaintance from the dojo then?
:>How could I have gone to the same dojo as him?! That's impossible!
:>...
:>And why, is it impossible? 
:>Because I would remember...
:>The great dojo's train hundreds, thousands of students each year. 
:>I do not know the names of every one of my classmates, and I never forget anything.
:>So why, Tsuruchi-san, are you so certain it is impossible for you two to have gone to the same Dojo?
:>I... I...
:>The Yoritomo looked at the Tsuruchi.
:>What is the meaning of this, Agito-san? Explain, quickly!
:>Agito looked down.
:>I do know him.
:>I served with his brothers, for a time.
:>His name is Yoritomo Hirano.
:>Yoritomo-sama exploded.
:>That is preposterous! Why would a Yoritomo turn to Maho, and kill one of their own!
:>Kitsuki-san spoke.
:>Perhaps his brothers can shed some light on that.
:>Agito shook his head.
:>I doubt it. They're dead. They died in the raid on this castle. Crushed by boulders hurled with earth magic.

:>I felt like I was hungover.
:>It was some time later, and my temples were pounding.
:>I was aware, dimly, that my mind had been fucked with. Not once, but twice.
:>A ladle of water appeared in front of me.
:>Get that shit out of my face, and get me some damn sake.
:>It's an affront to the celestial order for me to be hungover without having had the pleasure of being drunk first.
:>Toshiro pulled out a small bottle of sake, and made to start warming it.
:>I snatched it from his hand and began gulping it down cold.
:>Fuck, that's terrible.
:>I emptied the bottle and threw it away.
:>Seriously, why the hell do I get all the Maho?
:>Um. Sorry about that Ishigaki-san...
:>Not your fault Toshiro. I get it, I would have killed Kitsuki-san if you hadn't.
:>But still... get me some more sake.
:>You know there ARE some types of sake meant to be consumed cold, if you don't want to wait.
:>Nah, I'm feeling a little better now, I can wait for you to warm up the next one.
:>Kitsuki-san looked over.
:>Perhaps Toshiro should cast that spell on you more often.
:>Monkey.
:>Yeah Ishigaki?
:>Did that moron just say that out loud, or did some Maho-Tsukai cast another spell to make me want to kill him again?
:>No I heard him that time.
:>K.
:>Kitsuki-san, however, was on the other side of the room.
:>Dammit. Get over here so I can kick your ass.
:>He chuckled.
:>Ishigaki, do you not remember anything that happened?
:>It's all kind of fuzzy. I remember it, but my mind was all wrong, so I was paying attention to the wrong shit.
:>When Toshiro suggested Yoritomo-sama was insulting you, some of the Crane were trying to see if they could take you.
:>But your unnatural calm fooled them.
:>It was like the first duel between Kakita and Mirumoto Hojatsu!
:>... how do the Dragon tell it?
:>Kitsuki-san smirked.
:>You know the two faced one another without striking, yes?
:>Yeah, everyone knows that part.

:>Hojatsu later admitted that Kakita had the better technique and would have won.
:>But Kakita himself was not certain of that fact, and so did not strike.
:>Monkey looked surprised.
:>Are you saying Cranes only duel when they know they can't lose?
:>Toshiro returned with sake.
:>I decided to be a bit more civilized and drank from a cup this time.
:>I was still going to drink the whole bottle myself though.
:>Oh yeah, Kitsuki-san.
:>How in the hell did you know that Tsuruchi knew the Tsukai?
:>I happened to notice his face when he came in and saw the head. I could see he recognized Hirano.
:>Luck, really.
:>So, Hirano, whose brothers were killed by Shoji's magic, decided to use Maho to kill the Mantis delegate so war would break out.
:>And the person he used as a murder weapon was having bad dreams because the person she loved died in that same battle.
:>That we were a part off...
:>Yes, Ishigaki-san that is an excellent summary.
:>For fuck's sake. Someone in Tengoku is laughing their ass off at this.
:>That night, Ashitaka came to see me.
:>I have my answer now, Onii-sama
:>Oooh?
:>Yes. I want to protect people, like you do.
:>I don't want to be the one protected.
:>I am going to become a bushi.
:>I stared.
:>Then laughed out loud.
:>How's that taste, Shoji?

:>You are certain this is what you want, nii-san?
:>Hai, onee-sama.
:>I can not bear the thought that there would be a person whose life existed solely to die in my place.
:>When did you come to this realization?
:>When Ishigaki-sama left the room we were in.
:>I realized then I wanted to be strong like him.
:>Naomi, Oka-san, Ashitaka and I were sitting around a table, discussing his future.
:>Oka-san was shooting me glares over her fan.
:>Naomi didn't seem to thrilled either, for that matter.
:>Ashitaka, being a bushi is very dangerous and demanding...
:>Aren't Daiko and Tetsute going to be bushi?
:>Why is it fine for them to face that danger and not me?
:>Ah, well...
:>I spoke up.
:>Because it's highly unlikely either of them will have the ability to become shugenja. You do.
:>Ashitaka looked up at me in surprise
:>Don't misunderstand. I just want to make sure you've thought this out carefully. 
:>You're deciding the course of your entire life. 
:>It's a big decision.
:>He nodded.
:>I understand Onii-sama.
:>More glares from Oka-san.
:>I understood their concern.
:>Most young bushi died in their first battle.
:>Seeking glory, they rushed headlong into battle with the strongest opponent they could find.
:>Only to be cut down effortlessly by one far more skilled.
:>Because of my Crab upbringing, I saw that as a waste.
:>But such things would happen even among the armies of the Phoenix and Crane.
:>When you're raised on stories of great heroes you want to emulate them.
:>Rokugan's greatest heroes often died in glorious ways.
:>I did want to make sure Ashitaka wasn't thinking like that.
:>I'd had enough of that crap with Ayame.
:>Alright, Ashitaka-san. Let me ask you something.
:>He sat up straighter, recognizing that I was about to test him.
:>Do you know what the most important thing for a protector is?
:>He frowned in thought.
:>Keen vision! They cannot protect people if they do not see a threat for what it is!
:>I nodded. That is very important, yes. But not the MOST important.

:>In order to protect someone else, you must be able to protect yourself first.
:>He blinked at that.
:>If you are what stands between the person you are protecting, and danger, what happens if you die?
:>Ah, I see Onii-san! A Yojimbo must be able to see threats truly, remove them with superior skill at arms, and stay alive to deal with future threats!
:>Right, it's not enough to just jump in the way of one arrow, when there's an army out there intent on taking the life of the one you're protecting.
:>Oka-san's glare softened, a bit.
:>Naomi smiled a thank you at me.
:>She didn't need to thank me.
:>Ashitaka had a point when he mentioned Daiko and Tetsute.
:>I was going to have to have this talk with them one day as well, so this was good practice.
:>Do you think I will be able to enter Sunda Mizu?
:>Whoa.
:>All three of us were caught off guard by that.
:>I made a show of considering the question.
:>I didn't know if I had enough pull to get him into Sunda Mizu. I was one of their honor students, having moved on to advanced schooling as a Defender, but I wasn't really high ranked.
:>But even putting that aside...
:>Ashitaka, could you stand up for a moment?
:>He did so.
:>Hold out your arms for me.
:>Okay.
:>That's it, just hold them there.
:>I felt his muscles.
:>None at all.
:>He wasn't overweight, but he was still a plump child. His earliest education in the home had focused on intellectual pursuits, rather than physical ones.
:>In contrast, my children were roughhousing and running around until they were exhausted even before they could speak.
:>Training and play were one and the same for Crab children.
:>I didn't think one of the Empires harshest dojo would suit Ashitaka at all.
:>You don't think I should, do you Onii-sama?
:>Sharp kid, like Toshiro said.
:>I sat down in front of him to look him in the eye.
:>No, I don't. You have a keen mind, but your body is currently lacking.
:>Nothing wrong with that. Training and time will take care of it.

:>But Sunda Mizu is unforgiving. Even Crabs who are naturally hardy have a rough time of it.
:>And, you have a keen insight.
:>I do?
:>Yes, you do. Toshiro noticed it, and I agree with him. You see things others do not.
:>I had the pleasure of working alongside a Shiba trained bushi for some time, and I got to see some of their techniques first hand.
:>I really do think their teachings would be able to bring out your full potential, whereas Sunda Mizu would be training you to be something you just aren't.
:>He nodded gravely.
:>I understand, Onii-sama. If you say that I am better suited to the ways of the Shiba, then I will go there.
:>One day I will stand beside you as an equal!
:>I arched an eyebrow.
:>Try and surpass me kid. 
:>He blinked.
:>I've got years of training on you, and I'm not about to slack off in my own training. You'll need to work very hard indeed to catch up.
:>So only by aiming to surpass you can I ever hope to catch you at all... I see!
:>He really was quite sharp.
:>Ashitaka left to go and bathe before going to bed.
:>Oka-san put down her fan and spoke.
:>I cannot say I like this.
:>He is an Isawa!
:>That's not why you're upset and you damn well know it, Oka-san.
:>She stared. 
:>I was willing to give her a chance, but that meant I was going to be as open with her as anyone else in my circle.
:>Oka-san was having difficulty... adjusting to my blunt words.
:>You just can't say it because it flies in the face of Honor, glory, and what's expected of proper Samurai.
:>But no parent wants to attend their own child's funeral.
:>Oka-san looked at Naomi.
:>Yes Mother, he really did just say that. Have I not told you before Ishigaki-kun is much more aware than you give him credit for?
:>I shrugged, a little embarrassed by the compliment.
:>I keep saying you overestimate me Naomi. It's just you have time to think about things when your standing a post on the wall is all...
:>Your father will be incensed by this.
:>It was a struggle, but I managed to keep the smile off my face.

:>Father will just have to accept that Ashitaka is his own person, and not some doll for father to dress as he pleases.
:>Oka-san and I were both taken aback by Naomi's firm resolve.
:>Outnumbered, Oka-san sighed and gave in.
:>I still do not approve, but I will allow him to decide his own future. I will do what I can to mitigate Shoji's wrath, but...
:>I understood. Mitigating Shoji's wrath was like mitigating the damage of a typhoon.
:>One simply built their house out of easily replaceable material and simply rebuilt once it had passed.
:>She narrowed her eyes at me.
:>There are no bushi in our family, save you Ishigaki-san. I expect you will give him proper guidance.
:>Of course, Oka-san. I want him to have a long and glorious career.
:>She nodded and left.
:>Once we were alone, Naomi came and sat in my lap.
:>It is hard, to imagine him swinging a sword, taking lives, being in danger.
:>I have tried not to think too much on it, in regards to our children...
:>She rubbed at her tummy.
:>I placed my hands on her shoulders comfortingly.
:>They really must enter the shadowlands alone? And come back with a kill?
:>Yes. All the bushi do, and most Shugenja as well.
:>Even some of the Kaiu go out.
:>It isn't as though we do not prepare them to the best of our ability Naomi. 
:>But still, some never return.
:>No. Some never do.
:>I wasn't about to tempt fate by asserting our children would all come back, so I tried changing the subject.
:>What was that, back there?
:>Hmm?
:>When you so thoroughly put your foot down about your Father's say in the matter of Ashitaka.
:>Oh that? 
:>I am disgusted with him. How he treated poor Ayame...
:>He was going to throw her life away because it was the most expedient solution to the problem!
:>Ishigaki-kun... has my father always been like that?
:>Have I been blind to his faults for so long?
:>Yes. You have Naomi.
:>But that's okay.
:>He's your father, it's expected you turn a blind eye to his faults and obey him without question.

:>It's just that Shoji is one of those who such loyalty is wasted on, that's all.
:>Naomi nodded sadly.
:>What do you suppose will happen with Ayame now?
:>Well, she will not continue to serve here in this castle, that is certain.
:>Beyond that though, I cannot say Ishigaki-kun.
:>You don't think he'll strip her of her name, do you?
:>No, Toshiro found her innocent of any wrongdoing. Her Honor is a little stained but nothing that severe. Someone else in the Clan will take her in, I'm certain.
:>Good. Good.
:>Tomorrow there will be a kyujutsu tournament.
:>Will you be participating Ishigaki-kun?
:>Your father loves competition, doesn't he?
:>Yes, it is because he expects to win all the time.
:>So, will you?
:>I was actually a moderately decent archer.
:>Many Crabs were.
:>On the Wall, lame ponies would be staked out beyond the River of the Last Stand, to lure in live targets for practice.
:>After all, the more you killed with arrow volleys and siege engines, the fewer you had to fight up close.
:>Yes, I think I will.
:>Good. So will I.
:>Huh?
:>Did you not know? I have practiced Kyujutsu from time to time, as a meditation exercise.
:>I had seen her paint, arrange flowers, play music, tend her garden, perform the tea ceremony, and dance. 
:>I had never seen her fire arrows into straw targets.
:>I was going to enjoy the looks on the others faces tomorrow as much as she was enjoying the look on mine now.