Editing Memories of a Stone Wall (section)

===Act XXIII: Games===
:>The kyujutsu tournament was going to be a simple affair that would last the whole day.
:>Each contestant would be given five arrows, and allowed to pick their targets. 
:>Each target had a 'kill' zone, and was worth a number of points determined by the difficulty of making the 'kill'.
:>The targets were quite innovative, however.
:>They were arranged like soldiers on a battlefield.
:>The closest ones at twenty yards were just bundles of wet straw, You only needed to get your arrow to stay in the target to earn the points for a 'kill'.
:>Behind those were an array of targets with more exacting kill zones, and getting further away.
:>The most valuable target was not a straw dummy, but a set of Oyori, stuffed with straw.
:>It was placed on a stand, seated, with a tessen gripped in it's hand.
:>It represents the commander, a full 100 yards away.
:>Just getting an arrow to it would be difficult with the Yumi we would be provided with.
:>But you only got points if your arrow managed to penetrate deep enough to to hit the heart, lungs or brain.
:>A literal kill shot.
:>Tsuruchi Agito was called upon to act as the judge in this completion.
:>Simultaneously throwing a bone to the Mantis, by giving the prestige of judging the completion, and removing the one most likely to win from the competition itself.
:>After all, a judge should never be allowed to participate in the same competition they are judging.
:>To allow such a thing would guarantee such judges would make biased calls favoring themselves, and strip any such competition of all integrity.
:>I saw Chibicorn was going to be competing in this event.
:>The Lion put forth several competitors.
:>As did both the Crane and Phoenix
:>A Mirumoto I had not yet seen was joining in.
:>With the exception of Toshiro, our entire party would enter.
:>Naomi would be the first to compete.
:>I enjoyed watching them all pick their jaws up off the ground when they learned Naomi could shoot a bow.
:>A servant brought her a bow and her arrows.

:>Agito had already examined the bows and arrows to be used, and removed several of each he said would be 'better off used as firewood'
:>So the playing field was as level as possible
:>It was up to each competitor to know their own ability and use it to its fullest potential
:>Go for too many easy shots, and you would not score well
:>Go for too many shots you were likely to miss, and the higher point value would not make up for the wasted arrows
:>This was as much a test of self awareness as it was ability.
:>Naomi assumed her stance.
:>She drew.
:>And released.
:>Her arrow buried itself to the feathers in a target 50 yards away.
:>That's right, Naomi was strong. Stronger than even myself or Mantis-san.
:>Her slight frame belied her impressive strength, due to her affinity for water.
:>I suspected that while Daiko had her looks, Tetsute had some of her impressive strength.
:>Naomi drew and fired again, and again. 
:>A smooth, steady pace. 
:>Each arrow found a target of moderate difficulty, giving her a very solid score when she was done.
:>She hadn't set the opening bar terrifically high, but I was forced to admit I'd need a bit of luck to do much better.
:>There were a lot of people watching, so I settled for simply congratulating her on her showing rather than hugging her like I wanted.
:>An Akodo was up next.
:>He drew his bow and then slowly moved it from left to right.
:>As he did so he released.
:>Ah, I think I see what he's doing.
:>Rokugani do not 'aim' their shots.
:>Rather, the arrow knows the way.
:>We simply give it flight, and allow it to find what it seeks.
:>If our technique is poor, we end up hindering the arrow, obstructing it's spirit so that it cannot find the target it was meant for.
:>This Lion was listening to his arrow intently, releasing when he felt it's desire.
:>He listened well, and his technique was solid. He just edged Naomi out by a single point.

:>Archery was an art of the air, not the water.
:>For Naomi to do so well as a meditation exercise against a trained soldier...
:>I said as much, to cheer her up.
:>I am not so fragile, Ishigaki-kun.
:>Besides, I would never want to shoot a living person. 
:>I know, I'm just saying that if we ever end up staring down another horde of zombies I want you with a bow and some flaming arrows.
:>Naomi shuddered.
:>It it is all the same to you, I would rather avoid another zombie army... 
:>Seconded.
:>Mantis-san said.
:>Also seconded.
:>Said Monkey.
:>Up next was Kitsuki-san.
:>This should be interesting.
:>I was looking forward to seeing if his sharp eyes could help his archery.
:>I knew the Kitsuki school did not emphasize kyujutsu the way it did kenjutsu.
:>How far had he trained then?
:>It turned out, not very far at all.
:>He placed three arrows into the front rank of targets, one into a target at 40 yards, with only the top of the target a 'kill' and tried to hit the Commander.
:>His arrow fell short, however, landing between the feet of the armor.
:>Kitsuki-san returned to us with a sigh.
:>I expected as much. Perhaps I will put some more effort into my training. We cannot rely on Toshiro-sama to do all the work when our enemy is not within arms reach.
:>Glad someone finally noticed.
:>Toshiro grumbled.
:>It would be a bigger issue if you weren't a wal...breathing siege engine.
:>I grinned over my shoulder at him.
:>'Accidental' insult followed immediately by a sincere compliment.
:>I was getting much better at the word games played so often in court.
:>Toshiro scowled, then let out his half snort half laugh.
:>It was Chibicorn's turn next.
:>His stance was all wrong.
:>Instead of lifting the bow up and pushing forward, he brought the bow up to shoulder height and left it there.
:>Then he drew back, not to his rear shoulder, but his cheek
:>So, this then, is the Yomanari of the Unicorn Clan.

:>When the Unicorn returned to Rokugan after 700 years away, the brought many strange gaijin things with them.
:>The large horses that dwarfed Rokugani ponies were the most obvious, but saddles made of dead flesh, stirrups, and glass were just some of the things introduced to the Empire.
:>Yomonari was another. It was a gaijin technique for firing a bow, that involved looking down the length of the arrows shaft.
:>To me, it sounded like rather than properly releasing an arrow so it's spirit could fulfill its purpose, the Unicorn completely subdued the arrow's spirit, bending it to their own will.
:>I was curious to see just how effective such an approach could be.
:>He held the draw for too long, and when he released he did so by only relaxing his fingers, without pulling his arm back as you should
:>His arrow went straight through the do on the commander.
:>Well...
:>Agito ran out to check the penetration.
:>After a moment, he held up his arms, crossed in front of him.
:>The arrow didn't go deep enough to score.
:>Chibicorn drew and fired again. Again striking the commander.
:>Agito checked and signaled a 'kill' this time.
:>Satisfied with that the Unicorn sent his last three arrows into the very back rank of targets.
:>Even with one arrow failing to score, the bar had been raised quite considerably in this competition.
:>Next, a Daidoji woman.
:>Her white hair was cut very short, so someone close to her must have died very recently.
:>Unlike Naomi, she wore her kimono in the traditional fashion for archery.
:>With her arm that would hold the string out of it's sleeve, and her right side bared.
:>She wore a sarashi to preserve her modesty.
:>Her arm and shoulder I could see were thickly muscled, and a scar ran over her shoulder.
:>It's shape implied a blade had come down on her shoulder at some point in the past, but failed to sever her arm.
:>The Daidoji were known to produce many skilled archers, and this woman was clearly a veteran of several battles.

:>Her arrows flew, all striking the same target.
:>One in 50 yards back, with a thin line of paint for the 'kill' zone.
:>The shafts of each were practically touching each other.
:>It was a good score, and with all five arrows getting points she was able to beat the Chibicorn.
:>But I suspected the display of precision was her true goal. It didn't count for her score, but it DID showcase the impressive archery of the Daidoji.
:>Did you just now catch on, Ishigaki-kun?
:>Hm?
:>There is more going on here than just a test of one's skill.
:>Kitsuki-san nodded. Think about it. The Mantis are synonymous with their Navy, aren't they?
:>Oh yeah. And naval battles are like sieges. Arrow volleys are very important until the ships close with one another, or their reach land to the infantry can come to grips with one another.
:>My father is trying to impress upon the Mantis that the Shiba alone can do great damage in such battles,and also looking for who might make the best allies to seek should it come to that.
:>Huh.
:>I thought I understood now, how some courtiers claimed court was a battle like any other.
:>Oh, looks like I'm up next.
:>As I scanned the field I saw several targets that had their kill zones painted very low.
:>One was even touching the ground itself
:>Not an accurate representation of a person, but a tricky shot to make.
:>The inexorable pull of the earth might seize the arrow, crushing it's spirit and pulling it down before it struck home.
:>Hah. Just like shooting at those little goblins.
:>ThwakThwakThwakThwakThwak
:>My trick shooting got me a respectable score, no more. 
:>I got nods of acknowledgment from the Daidoji woman and the Lion.
:>Mantis-san gave me a look when I came back
:>What was up with that.
:>Toshiro answered him, holding his thumb and forefinger slightly apart.
:>Goblins.
:>Oh. Yeah they are pretty small aren't they?
:>Never really thought about that before.
:>Hey, Kitsuki-san! Your lover is coming up
:>She is NOT my lover Monkey.

:>Really?
:>Cus I think she just winked at you.
:>Moshi Aoi was wearing her usual attire.
:>Unlike the Daidoji woman, she had not bothered to secure herself.
:>As she released the string passed her chest and set events into motion.
:>Her arrow found a target in the front rank
:>Kitsuki-san hid behind his fan.
:>She lifted up her arms and bow a bit slower than she should, then drew and fired.
:>I believe she is doing that on purpose...
:>I thought you said the water kami were pleased by constant motion, Naomi.
:>Ishigaki!
:>She struck a target a bit further back.
:>Aoi drew again, and fired.
:>Mantis-san leaned in to Kitsuki-san.
:>Face it, you're being courted.
:>Toshiro spoke up.
:>Nah, she wants me. Clearly.
:>Kitsuki-san fluttered his fan at our teasing, his face going red.
:>Which Aoi seemed to mistake for a sign of success.
:>So she stretched a bit, working out stiff joints to limber herself up.
:>It was getting to be too much even for me. I had to look away.
:>Naomi's hand found mine, down low and hidden from view.
:>She said nothing, however.
:>I head a thwack of an arrow hitting it's mark.
:>And Kitsuki-san made a choking sound.
:>Monkey and Mantis-san were giggling.
:>Then another thwack.
:>Up next was a Bayushi, his mask a demonic mempo split down the middle vertically, so the entire right side of his face was covered.

:>The Bayushi walked up, to his stance drew and fired drew and fired drew and fired drew and fired drew and fired.
:>His hands blurred, the last arrow struck before the first stopped quivering.
:>And he returned to his seat even before Agito had time to announce his score.
:>His targets were on the smaller end of the kill zones, spread out across the width of the field.
:>A very good score, but several had better already.
:>Still, his message had been quite clear
:>Then it was Monkeys turn.
:>He shot all his arrows into the commander.
:>One planked off the crest of the helm.
:>Another struck the knee.
:>Two more struck the do.
:>The last one jutted out of the eye of the mempo.
:>...
:>Monkey was a proficient archer. He was not an expert.
:>He had done exactly the thing you should not have, gone for too many difficult shots and hoped his score would not suffer from too many misses.
:>Agito moved up and checked the penetration.
:>Both hits to the do had gone in far enough.
:>One hit heart instead of lungs, and was worth more points. The brain was worth the most points.
:>Even with only two non scoring arrows, no one would be able to match him without at least a Lung hit on the commander. 
:>Mantis-san whispered to me.
:>How the HELL does he do that?!
:>I shrugged. Better to be lucky than good?
:>Kitsuki-san offered his own opinion.
:>Rather, luck is a skill all it's own, and the Toku seem to have mastered that skill...
:>He reminds me of the students of the Dark Sword of Bitter Lies.
:>Gyah!
:>When the fuck did Amano-san join us!?
:>I scowled at him.
:>Don't ninja around me like that, dammit.
:>I'm jumpy; you might get hurt.
:>Ah yes, the old saying: 'when you wake a Crab, use a stick'.
:>I will remember that, Ishigaki-san.
:>He smiled to assure me there was no malice in his returned banter.
:>You know that guy who went before Monkey?
:>Bayushi Kentaro. My cousin.
:>That was some impressive speed.
:>It is the motto of the Bayushi dojo: Strike First' Strike Last.
:>I grunted.
:>So who is next?

:>It was a Shiba. The Gunso who had taken us to see Ayame.
:>He fired his arrows in smooth deliberate rhythm, as Naomi had done.
:>Thwack.
:>Thwack.
:>Thwack.
:>Thwack.
:>Thwack.
:>Each shot scoring high.
:>His last arrow found the do of the commander.
:>Heart.
:>He had passed Monkey's score.
:>Awww. That fast?
:>That's the danger of a tournament like this. If you take the high score everyone after you will try to beat it, even if only by a slim margin.
:>And you've guaranteed that everyone will aim for the commander now..
:>Agito waved a flag.
:>There would be break while the commander was fitted with a new do and re stuffed
:>As good a time as any for lunch then. 
:>Amano joined us, as did his cousin.
:>Naomi gave me a discrete elbow when she saw me check my riceball for ninjas.
:>Aoi decided to join us as well.
:>She sat next to Kitsuki-san.
:>Every time someone asked her to pass something she used it as an excuse to lean against him.
:>He kept a stony face up the whole time, which only served to encourage me to ask Aoi to pass more food my way.
:>He glared at me the third time I asked for some more shrimp.
:>Monkey, oblivious to the danger he was in, spoke freely with the Scorpions in our midst.
:>That was some impressive shooting, Kentaro-san!
:>Yours was better though.
:>Only my score. I think you'd do better on a real battlefield though...
:>Kentaro smiled at the compliment.
:>It was unnerving, given I could only see half his face.
:>Oh my, I can see why you keep asking for more of this Shrimp, Ishigaki-san!
:>That's because it's done in proper Crab style.
:>Crabs enjoyed food covered in batter and cooked by immersing it in hot oil.
:>They even had a proper dipping sauce.
:>Aoi held out a piece, dripping with juice, to Kitsuki-san.
:>You should try this! It's delicious!
:>Naomi hid a titter behind her sleeve as the rest of us just grinned.

:>Kitsuki-san tried to murder us all with his glare as he ate the piece.
:>It is very good shrimp. Thank you Aoi-san.
:>My pleasure!
:>After a pleasant lunch we returned to witness the end of the archery contest.
:>Mantis-san was up next.
:>He first put three arrows into some moderate targets.
:>Then fired his last two shots at the commander.
:>He arched his shots up high, the first was taken by the wind and overshot the commander.
:>The second came straight down and punched through the kabuto, burying itself halfway up the shaft.
:>It was close, but he ended up falling shy of the Shiba Gunso's score.
:>After several unsuccessful attempts to remove Mantis-san's arrow it was decided the kabuto would be replaced.
:>Mantis-san was allowed to keep the helm, arrow and all.
:>I know right where I'll put it, too.
:>He grinned.
:>After that it was another Lion, followed by an Utaku. Strong showings from both, but neither was able to take the lead.
:>Then Crane stepped up. They were very young, and I couldn't tell if I was looking at a pretty boy or a young girl.
:>Amano spoke up. 
:>I know that one. Doji Rei.
:>Well. Thanks for clearing up the mystery.
:>She fired off two shots almost as fast as Kentaro had.
:>And took out both eyes on the commander.
:>Her other three struck the back ranks of straw targets.
:>Well, that's damn near unbeatable.
:>As the rest of the contestants took their shots, damn near became completely.
:>Doji Rei was declared the winner of the Archery contest.
:>Hey, uh, Ishigaki-san?
:>Is that a boy or a girl?
:>I'm married Monkey, I don't need to concern myself with such things.
:>Oh, yeah. Guess you've got a point. 
:>I was just curious, is all.
:>Naomi and I ate dinner with our kids, private family time.
:>Neither of them had gotten the hang of chopsticks yet, so it was bit messy. Lots of grab and stuff and giggle.
:>Yummy!
:>Tetsute's first word had been HUNGRY
:>And much of his vocabulary centered around food.

:>Even as an infant his I'm hungry cries were clearly different from any other crying.
:>In that they could probably hear him all the way to the Wall.
:>Naomi took the children for a bath, and headed down to the men's baths.
:>They were empty, save for one other.
:>Shoji.
:>He looked up as I entered, then down. Then away, angrily.
:>So, I win again.
:>I sat down and began to wash, not giving him any satisfaction by noticing him.
:>Silence, for a time.
:>Then.
:>It is not enough for you take my daughter, now you want my son as well?
:>Don't give me that bullshit, you never wanted your daughter to begin with.
:>She still had value to this family!
:>I dumped my bucket over my head and stood up.
:>I looked him dead in the eyes.
:>You really don't understand, do you?
:>THAT is why your son doesn't respect you enough to follow in your footsteps.
:>I got in to soak, as Shoji choked back his rage.
:>You all took a great risk with the incident the other day!
:>You were lucky it worked out so well!
:>You fools think with your hearts too much, do you know nothing of Duty or Honor!?
:>I surged across the bath at him.
:>And pinned him to the wall, my forearm across his neck. 
:>Not quite choking him, but close.
:>Do not DARE speak to me of duty little man.
:>You have spent your whole life hiding behind others, letting them take the risks for you.
:>I have stood at the forefront of every battle I have ever been in.
:>You use others to further your own goals.
:>You throw away their lives when it is convenient.
:>You have never risked you own life, not once, on purpose.
:>For an earth tensai, you're pathetic. A sniveling coward afraid to be hurt.
:>And you would lecture me about honor? about duty?
:>Say something like that again and you'd better pray to every fortune, kami and ancestor you can think off that one of those Crane steps up to defend you.
:>I let him go.
:>And left.
:>I will make you pay for these insults! One day I will take something YOU hold dear!

:>Ichi.
:>Ni.
:>San.
:>Shi.
:>Go.
:>Roku.
:>Shichi.
:>Hachi.
:>Kyuu.
:>Juu.
:>Nope. Still mad.
:>So I returned to punch Shoji in the face.
:>I felt his cheekbone crack.
:>Shoji was not much of a brawler, and naked while sitting in water up to his waist wasn't helping him any.
:>So I decided to give him some tips on swimming by shoving his head under the water.
:>Plus, he couldn't scream for guards to come help that way.
:>It occured to me that I was having a naked fist fight with my Father-in-law, and seriously trying to kill him.
:>This... this probably won't go over very well with Naomi.
:>He might be a coward, but Shoji was still an earth tensai. 
:>The human spirit is tethered to its body.
:>Damage the integrity of the body, and the spirit's grip loosens. 
:>Damage it enough and the spirit is no longer bound.
:>The most basic 'healing' spell did not actually close wounds. Rather it simply reinforced the damaged bonds.
:>At least, that's how Naomi explained it to me.
:>The strength of one's earth most determined the strength of those tethers.
:>In other words, this could take a while.
:>It was then that I heard voices nearing the baths.
:>Well.
:>Shit.
:>So I pulled Shoji up.
:>As he gasped and sputtered I yelled loudly enough to be heard outside.
:>Shoji-sama! Are you alright! It is slippery!
:>The people outside rushed in.
:>He glared at me even as I slapped his back.
:>To help him get all the water out, of course.
:>I... I am fine now!
:>Good, good. 
:>Oh, it looks like you hit your face when you slipped!
:>Yes, it is nothing though. I truly did not feel it.
:>Of course, Shoji-sama, you are durable, if nothing else!
:>I left, before I lost my temper again.
:>I decided not to tell anyone about that little exchange.
:>I joined my family and went to sleep.
:>There were a few days of more basic courtly activities.
:>Shoji was 'resting' due to a mild 'illness' and would resume hosting soon.
:>In the meantime, we enjoyed watching Aoi pursue Kitsuki-san.
:>I wondered if he was serious about his protestations.

:>After Shoji recovered from his 'illness' he announced the next competition.
:>A Go tournament.
:>I was beginning to see a pattern here.
:>There were many entrants for the Go tournament.
:>So many that even though it was single elimination, it would likely take a day or two.
:>There was no time limit imposed on the individual games themselves.
:>No one liked the weak fools who would play poorly but try to be ahead when time ran out, after all.
:>My first opponent turned out to be the Shiba Gunso.
:>I drew white.
:>He placed upon his left corner star.
:>I mirrored his move.
:>I played conservatively after all, building up my territory and only then attacking enough to nudge my opponent off the board.
:>We placed quickly at first, both of us ignoring the other in favor of developing a strong base.
:>But while I was still moving up the sides, he took the Origin of Heaven.
:>Bold.
:>Was he trying to fight for the center, while sneaking around the sides?
:>Hoping that a battle on all fronts would confuse me?
:>If he was, he was in trouble.
:>I was not a smart man, but I knew how to defend my territory.
:>I continued on with my development, pretending to ignore his audacity.
:>He grew bold and struck at my territory before fully consolidating his position.
:>I then sallied forth, harrying his flanks while he tried to push against me.
:>He wheeled in response.
:>Only for me to strike a hammer blow to the center crushing his line.
:>He frowned over the board for a moment.
:>Then bowed.
:>A good game. You are better than I gave you credit for, and my recklessness cost me.
:>I'd like to think I had something to do with my own victory, but he was right. I had won because he made a few costly mistakes.
:>A good game. Maybe we can play again sometime, and I'll see what you're truly capable off.
:>Indeed.
:>There were several games still ongoing, so I meandered about and observed.
:>Aoi was still playing.
:>She was leaning forward studying the board intently.
:>Her opponent was also studying intently.
:>Just... not the board.

:>I took a glance down at the board.
:>With a frighteningly cute 'Yosh!' Aoi placed her piece.
:>I could see she was going to win. 
:>His pieces were scattered; she had waltzed into his territory practically unopposed. 
:>Monkey was sitting across from Katsuie-sama.
:>Monkey was telegraphing just how much trouble he was in; sitting with his ankles crossed and arms folded.
:>I came over to see just how bad it was.
:>Oof.
:>Katsuie-sama had successfully pushed into the center and was currently ahead in the battle for one of Monkey's sides.
:>Only a measly strip remained of Monkey's once proud empire.
:>And given how decisive Katsuie's victories had been on the rest of the board, he might even be able to take more of that.
:>Monkey made a frustrated noise and placed his piece, seemingly at random.
:>Ohhh, good move!
:>Though Katsuie-sama praised Monkey's placement, I couldn't see how it helped him win.
:>Katsuie-sama aborted his attack, placing to defend against Monkey's last move.
:>Monkey placed.
:>Then Katsuie-sama.
:>Then Monkey.
:>Then Katsuie-sama.
:>Then Monkey.
:>Then Katsuie-sama.
:>Then Monkey.
:>Then it was over.
:>Monkey had managed to, in the last few turns take back just a bit of his territory, reclaiming one of his sides.
:>Katsuie-sama thanked Monkey for the good game.
:>I am pleased to have seen such determination.
:>Many will simply concede when they think they have lost, but you kept fighting back, until the very end!
:>I would have been more impressed were I not certain that Monkey had not planned any of that
:>The first round was over.
:>From our group, only Monkey failed to advance.
:>Guess it takes more than just luck to win a game of Go, neh?
:>Toshiro spoke up.
:>Katsuie-sama is renowned throughout the Crab clan as a great Go player.
:>I looked over at him.
:>Really? I didn't know
:>That's because you don't pay attention to things like that.
:>I grunted.
:>Round 2 began.
:>Mantis-san and I got to have our showdown.

:>In our first games, we were lopsided in our styles.
:>He focused too much on attack, I focused too much on defense.
:>We had improved one another considerably in our previous games.
:>Now an invincible force would collide with an immovable object.
:>And all of Rokugan would tremble.
:>I drew white again.
:>The two of us chose our ground for our basecamps, and began deploying our forces.
:>He sent scouts along his sides, testing to see how I would react.
:>I began laying traps just outside my territory.
:>I also gave up a few pieces, sacrificing them to his sides, just so he didn't focus too much on what I was really up to.
:>He secured the flanks, and began to bring up his forces, preparing to crush me in a pincer.
:>Too late; I had prepared the center.
:>I struck deep into his territory, charging his base camp.
:>He responded swiftly, and I lost more force to his defense.
:>I fell back, trying to salvage the assault.
:>He pursued, thinking I had overreached.
:>Right into my traps.
:>It wasn't long before he found himself cut off.
:>I fell upon the center with all my might.
:>But Mantis-san wasn't about to give up so easily.
:>He marshaled his forces and drove a wedge through my encirclement.
:>Breaking free, he wheeled.
:>It was nearing the end now.
:>He kept up a constant motion, slashing away wherever he could do the most damage.
:>Rather than chase after him and try to stem the bleeding, I began to set up ahead of him blunting his assault.
:>When the last pieces were played, it ended up being very close.
:>He had two sides, I had one. We contested the fourth. But I had the center.
:>I had won, though by a slimmer margin than I had expected.
:>Well done Ishigaki-san.
:>You too, Mantis-san.
:>We grinned at one another, both pleased with the ferocity and skill of our rival.
:>I looked up to see Kitsuki-san staring down at our board
:>He looked between the two of us.
:>How is it possible the two of you are so bad at this game?
:>Huh?
:>I've heard of beginner's luck, but how did you BOTH manage to get past the first round?!

:>Well, the Shiba I played did fall for my ploy and become overconfident.
:>I played against a Lion, he fell for my taunting attacks and left himself open.
:>So really, how do you figure we're bad?
:>Kitsuki-san just buried his face in his hands.
:>It turned out, though, that Kitsuki-san had lost his match.
:>Aoi had bested him soundly.
:>And so, proved that playing one's opponent was just as viable as playing the game itself.
:>I really didn't know where he got off, saying we were bad at Go.
:>I was annihilated in the third round.
:>I sat across from an Akodo.
:>As we bowed he spoke.
:>Some say that Go is the superior game, others claim Shogi.
:>I say both are good.
:>In Shogi, one must capture the opponent's king, removing enemy pieces and pinning down his forces.
:>It teaches one to think tactically, to see the strengths and weakness of each unit and use them to their best potential.
:>Shogi simulates a real battle well.
:>Go, however, is about controlling territory. 
:>Each piece is the same as any other. Their individual abilities do not exist, because at this level it is irrelevant. 
:>Only by working together can they achieve victory.
:>Go teaches one about strategy.
:>I think this guy takes these games waaaay too seriously for his own good.
:>But, while his obsession may be unhealthy, it proved it's worth quite handily.
:>He fell for none of my traps, simply placing his pieces with precision almost as soon as I decided on my own placement.
:>He didn't respond to my feints, when I tried to begin setting up a trap he dismantled it before I was finished.
:>By the time I was done, a full 3/4 of the board was firmly in his control.
:>As we bowed after it was over he spoke again.
:>You have potential.
:>But you forget this is a game.
:>Go can teach one strategy, but only if one is broad minded and able to understand the analogies.
:>You treat this as a literal battle and so your placement is amateur at best.
:>Well. 
:>Maybe Kitsuki-san was right after all.
:>But he still lost before I did.

:>No, I did not lose.
:>But you were out of the tourney? So you must have lost?
:>I conceded, but not because I could not win.
:>Then why?
:>I found her playstyle offensive.
:>Folding her hands in her lap to push herself up.
:>Leaning forward all the time.
:>Nibbling at her thumb while she thinks.
:>Shrugging before she placed a piece.
:>I could not think straight.
:>So, what you're saying is, she didn't beat your army, she fired an arrow with a letter into your camp that got you so worked up you beat yourself.
:>NO!
:>Monkey fell over cackling.
:>...buh....beat! 
:>Beat Himself!
:>Kitsuki-san and Naomi were confused as to why that was so funny.
:>Toshiro just responded to their confusion.
:>If we have to explain it, it's not really funny anymore.
:>I hadn't intended to make that joke, but whatever.
:>I'd let them think I was clever.
:>The final turned out to be Katsuie-sama vs Akodo Gocrazy.
:>Hey, you played him didn't you Ishigaki-san?
:>What's his name?
:>Akodo Gocrazy
:>No it isn't. His name is Akodo Akira
:>I like mine better.
:>What if he hears you?
:>Bah. I could take him.
:>In a first blood duel over a minor insult? YOU?
:>I had no idea why everyone keeps thinking I'm a terrible duelist.
:>That's it, I'm going to get my own headbag so that the next time we get caught up in a war I could go looking for duels and put an end to that once and for all.
:>The real question is how to hide a head bag from Naomi.
:>Gocrazy made the same speech to Katsuie-sama that he made to me.
:>Katsuie-sama offered some of his own Go related wisdom.
:>Go is indeed a fine game. You can learn much about a person from the way they play.
:>But it is best to dispel all notions of them from your mind before you begin.
:>If you have preconceptions, and they turn out to be wrong, you may outsmart yourself and play poorly.
:>Katsuie-sama drew black.
:>He placed his first piece.
:>The Akodo followed with quick certainty.
:>As they developed their openings, Kitsuki-san hissed beside me.
:>A fuseki!

:>Kitsuki-san whispered so as not to be overheard by the players.
:>Katsuie-sama is going for a far more open and relaxed game.
:>I watched.
:>Relaxed is right. 
:>Katsuie-sama was placing his pieces all around the board, isolated and alone.
:>I was sure he was setting up traps, except I couldn't see how they could form yet, or be closed in time.
:>Was he thinking of the endgame already?
:>Could he really see that many moves ahead?
:>Gocrazy's hand paused for the first time.
:>Naomi whispered to me.
:>He had been going with a traditional opening, building up his more easily defended sides and corners.
:>Now he wonders if he should respond to Katsuie-sama or if he should continue.
:>Akodo Gocrazy placed his piece. Next to one of Katsuie-sama's.
:>Oooooh.
:>So, it is now then?
:>Very well.
:>Katsuie-sama placed.
:>Then Gocrazy.
:>Katsuie placed with great speed.
:>So did Gocrazy.
:>Tak.
:>Tak.
:>Tak.
:>Tak.
:>Their hands were almost blurs.
:>Neither was looking at the board much.
:>They were looking at each other.
:>The Akodo was stone faced and stoic.
:>Katsuie-sama wore a faint smile. 
:>Whether he was enjoying the game or just knew something the Akodo did not was not clear.
:>Maybe it was both.
:>The Akodo paused again.
:>Hand hovering over the place he was about set his piece down.
:>He looked at the board.
:>For some time.
:>Slowly, he moved his hand.
:>Placing the piece somewhere else.
:>Tak.
:>Katsuie kept right with his certain, rapid placement.
:>Akodo Gocrazy closed his eyes.
:>And bowed to Katsuie-sama.
:>It was an honor to face such a skilled opponent.
:>Katsuie-sama returned the bow.
:>Likewise. I have learned much from you this day.
:>Your strategy is strong, sturdy and reliable.
:>You are easily the finest player I have ever had the fortune to face.
:>At the end of the second day, Hida Katsuie was declared the winner of the Go tournament.
:>Later on, I caught Kitsuki-san staring at a Go board.
:>What's up?
:>This is the state of the board, just before Akodo Akira made his last play.
:>Oh?

:>If the Akodo couldn't see a way out at that point, I doubt there was one.
:>I am not so certain, Ishigaki-san.
:>I sat down and stared at the board with Kitsuki-san.
:>Hey, what are you guys doing?
:>Kitsuki-san is trying to figure out if there was still a way for the Lion to win before he made his last play.
:>Oh.
:>Monkey sat down next to us.
:>Before I knew it, we were all sitting around the board, staring it hard enough to set it on fire.
:>Toshiro got up, and thumpdraged off.
:>We continued to stare at the board.
:>What about here?
:>No, that wouldn't work either Monkey.
:>See, then Katsuie-sama places here.
:>Oh yeah.
:>Mantis-san nodded. Yeah, it really is just impossible.
:>Are you so certain?
:>We jumped.
:>Katsuie-sama came into the room, along with Toshiro.
:>So that's where he went.
:>Here, let me make you all some tea to clear your minds.
:>He did so. It was a fine robust tea.
:>May I?
:>Of course Katsuie-sama
:>He placed a piece for the lion. Where the Lion had been about to place.
:>Then he placed for himself.
:>He played out the rest of the game, down the very last placement.
:>We looked.
:>The Lion had won this game.
:>You see?
:>It is important to never give up, no matter how bleak things may look.
:>He sipped his tea calmly.
:>More people lose because they tell themselves they have lost, then have well and truly lost.
:>Kitsuki-san nodded.
:>Conversely, one could say it is just as important to convince your enemy he has been defeated as it is to actually defeat them.
:>Indeed, Kitsuki-san.
:>Such is the weight of reputation.
:>The Akodo are feared as tacticians, the Kakita and Mirumoto feared as Duelists.
:>All fear to anger the Scorpion, or to deal with them more than necessary.
:>They forget that even Cranes can fall in duels, that sometimes the Scorpion cannot sting you, that even the Lion are not invincible in war.
:>Monkey spoke up.
:>I thought that no army led by an Akodo has ever known defeat? Or something like that, anyway.
:>Katsuie-sama chuckled.

:>If that were true, then why have the Lion not conquered all of Rokugan? 
:>Or at least, destroyed the Crane and Scorpion they so openly despise?
:>No, that is kind poetry. Just as there will always be gaps in even the finest suit of armor, so will there be flaws in every man.
:>It was at this point that Bayushi Amano, Kitsui-san's friend, entered the room.
:>I lifted up one of the Go pieces.
:>No ninjas under that one. 
:>Naomi elbowed me again.
:>Ah, Katsuie-sama, you're here. This is fortunate, I have news and you must hear it as well.
:>Katsuie-sama took in Amano's countenance.
:>Sighed.
:>I think I will need more tea before I hear this.
:>You might, yes.
:>I have managed to learn of the next move the Crane and Mantis plan to make.
:>Oh?
:>The Crane secretly wish for the war because they see an opportunity to inflate the value of their rice, by damaging the Phoenix surplus.
:>The Crab, of course, stand opposed because they rely so heavily on Crane rice.
:>I didn't like that he was bringing up the Crab now.
:>The Crane clan made a proposal to the Mantis, gift the rice taken from the Phoenix to the Crab, the Crane will compensate the Mantis.
:>Monkey spoke.
:>Wait, doesn't that defeat the whole purpose of driving up the value of their rice?
:>I shook my head.
:>The Mantis aren't going to capture enough stores of grain and rice to cover all our clans needs.
:>Mantis-san considered it.
:>Most likely with value of rice up, the Crane get the same amount of return on their rice as they usually do in a given year, except they don't have to give up as much.
:>So they'll have more surplus to trade elsewhere.
:>So they still come out ahead.
:>Just a little more complicated way to do so.
:>Katsuie-sama sipped at his tea.
:>Well, hey. It's not like we've got anything to worry about there, right?
:>It's not like Katsuie-sama would take their deal.
:>Monkey noticed that Toshiro, Katsuie-sama and I were all looking down.
:>...Right?

:>There is a Yasuki in my entourage. He would have to look over the proposal.
:>Monkey didn't understand.
:>The Crab maintained the largest standing army in Rokugan.
:>At times the Lion would keep more, other times they would include the number of Ashigaru and reserves they could muster to make their force seem even larger.
:>But logistical relies kept the Lions actual army smaller than most thought, and because they really didn't need that many troops since large scale war between the Clans was forbidden by the Emperor.
:>The Crab, on the other hand were in a constant state of war. 
:>And our enemy was NOT a Clan.
:>And we wouldn't be able produce enough rice in year to feed even half of the force we maintained.
:>If the Crab would come ahead in the deal proposed by the Crane and Mantis, even by a slim margin...
:>Katsuie-sama wouldn't like it, but he would have to take their offer.
:>Toshiro explained the reality of the situation to Monkey and the others.
:>Katsuie-sama left to return to his own rooms, no doubt to prepare for the official offer.
:>Well, this left a bitter taste.
:>I shuddered to think what a Mantis Kobune carrying a Kaiu made siege engine could do.
:>Heaven forbid some siege masters be sent to assist the Mantis directly.
:>The Kaiu knew how to build the best fortresses in Rokugan. 
:>That meant they also knew the best ways to take one apart.
:>This could get very ugly soon.
:>Naomi hugged me fiercely that night, worried for the future of her birth Clan.
:>I didn't blame her. I hated Shoji and Hohiro, true, but I didn't hate the whole Phoenix Clan.
:>Given Shoji's pattern for events, the next one would be physical challenge of some sort.
:>I was right.
:>A kenjutsu tournament was announced.