The Harvest Moon Consortium

[Winterhawk99]

Journal entry 1.

I have arrived at my destination and have lived among these barbarians for a few days. I can honestly say that I have done very well in some instances and very poorly in others. My interpretation of bushido has been tested severely. I have not yet concluded if I have done right or wrong by it. In my home country absolutely. No one would question. Here, I do not know as of yet. I do call into question the morality of one of my actions.

I have defeated many a foe already though they are no stronger than peasants. Troglodytes, goblins, and others have readily fallen to my blades. I thank the hard hand, and swift moves my grandmother taught me as one of her apprentices.

I did make my first contact with one of station that may be able to help me negotiate my way around the circles that move earth and sea on this island. Her name is Xyrmys. An Onna-bugeisha apprentice to a Dutchess……. Dutchess: Dutchess means the wife of a Duke. Duke being the next lower rank to what they call a king by the books I am reading in their library. I do not think positions even equate to our system of government with our Emperors, Shoguns, Daimyo and Samurai.

Xyrmys Gozen led me to a city by the name of Crystana. It is a clean, orderly and beautiful city. The people look to be well fed. There are farms just outside the grand fort. The fort itself has thick high walls and good central planning from what I can see though I am no expert on these things. There is a calm manner about both the people and the place itself. It is very reminiscent of the inner imperial city.

The city gardens and fountains on display are small and do not equal in any way, shape or form the gardens and fountains of Dojyu, however what they do have took my breath away. It was just like my grandmother said. Their horses far, far exceed any of the home breeds back home. Even the mighty Kisouma. Grandmother was right with a calvary of the creatures I saw in Crystana we could unify the whole of Kozakura within a year. Wouldn’t that be a grand thing to do.

Xyrmys Gozen showed me the dutchess horses. They were a breed I did not recognize in grandmother’s stories. I should ride these when next I come out of my studies and feel their magnificence under my legs. I do want to see the mythical Percheron my grandmother rode into battle while she was an ambassador to the west. I can't even imagine a horse 17 hands high and weighing 865 kilograms.

The thing that strikes me as odd is Xyrmys is still an apprentice. She seems to already be in her 20s and not yet a full Onna-bugeisha. Do westerners live much longer than us or is their intellect slower? That I guess remains to be seen. I did have a wonderful time with the woman. I may have attempted to pillow with her however Grandmother said that women in the west are less free than ours in regard to sex and relationships thus I quickly put that out of my mind.

There are Yokai and kami in the west everywhere! Some of yokai blood even freely walk around the adventurer’s guild halls as if they own the place. What a dangerous and unforgiving place this must be. Perhaps the authorities are too scared to do anything about it.

I did meet a Kami and tried to rub its head for a wish, but it would not let me. It was a small lizard-like creature is priests robes. It was pleasant while speaking to me. I am glad. I do not want good spirits or a dragon chasing me down in the night to feast of my cold body. It also said that it served a dragon. I wonder if its dragon is a god and what kind. It would not be a typhoon dragon the kami talked of healing and protection. So most likely not a river or mist dragon. Most likely a cloud or great spirit dragon. Will investigate more on this.

I met another woman that had a great beast of a dog by her side. I think she is hengeyokai. She alluded to having such power. I did not want to disgrace her honor by calling her out. Dog hengeyokais are creatures of goodness just like the wolf hengeyokai is a creature of order. Her name is Mizette. I have no idea why she would put herself down by being a shopkeeper artisan, however perhaps she is a high artist and well respected. One must take that into account that there are grand artisans with much honor among the shopkeepers of our own country. And I will say yes. Even the lowly untouchable tanner may in fact produce items of greatness and raise their status though many of my fellow samurai would disagree. Art taken to its highest form in any field should be looked upon with great respect.

The last person I met was a black elf with white hair. She called herself a Drow and she told me Drow and elves are different. My grandmother has an elven besshikime by the name of Drasta Resh’Dalin. She is of pale skin and overly large ears. Not like this drow.

This woman walked out of the guild hall. I had some business and walked out shortly after to find her standing in the middle of the street. As I turned to go this drow spoke to me about slinking around. I don’t slink around. I am after all a samurai and lawyer. Still, I tried to converse with her. As I did, she disappeared and reappeared. I drew my weapons. And waited for the inevitable attack. It never came.

She was playing games with me. Yet I know the signs of shadow from my teachings. The art of the Shinobi. The shinobi are a samurai’s greatest enemy along with the yakuza. This time I did not overplay my hand. I kept calm. She was obviously a mistress of the art, and I knew I had no chance. As we talked a yakuza thief slunk in and tried to steal from her. I warned her. and the thief took off.

A guard talked about the man. Said he had been slinking around a few days. That meant he’s a professional. The guard suggested we search for him. We did find him trying to exit a gate. She knocked him silly, and I tied him up. We talked. The practiced thief gave the same sad story about his poor family and how it was starving. The shinobi woman and I disagreed on how to handle the situation. The guard at the gate said to take him out and kill him or release him.

I decided to take him to the guard that witnessed the whole affair. We did and as I and the guard were talking, and I was about to hand him over, the thief attacked me. It was a reflex. I used an iaido move and slashed out half his intestines with a single swing. He died instantly. I instantly regretted it however he was a suspected thief and did attack me. I did the honorable thing and cut off his head and put it in a box to take to his family.

Searching his body, I found a stick figure dog drawn by a child. I gave the guard 5,000 in coins to take care of his widow and/or his children. It was what I could do for them. Hopefully that should take care of them long enough for the woman’s father to find a new husband for her, a better one, or if there is no wife then the children can be put into care of the government or be fostered out.

This kill will haunt me somewhat for I acted without thinking. Was it within the bounds of the code of bushido. This is a definite yes. I was within my rights to the code and with the gods. The man did try to steal from someone. He did attack me as I was handing him to the guards.

Was the action a moral one? This I question and must meditate on.

Tatsuo puts down his quill and examines the journal for his own personal records. He then reminisces about the first time he remembers meeting Ambassador Hojo Miwa, his grandmother.

Story by Winterhawk99 and Maxalpd

[Winterhawk99]

The six-year-old was very tired from the 12-day trek on horseback from the northwestern reaches of Shinkoku to the mountains above Dojyu on the southeast of the island. His brother Mitsuru, also tired had been complaining mighty the whole of the trip. In fact, to Tatsuo, it seems the whole of the family was at their limit going to the large villa they travel to.

Tatsuo had never seen it before, but he knew that he was to have his first meeting with his legendary grandmother, The honorable Onna-bugeisha: Ambassador Hojo Miwa. Who was once of the Barasume clan. A great clan in the south. She was a legendary warrior, judge and now horse breeder. They say her kisouma horses were the best in the empire and that she only sold them to those she knew and trusted.

As his thoughts linger on the horses Mitsuru starts up again. “Tell me why we are going to the old shrew’s house again? There are so many rules. And besides she’s married to that giant outsider. Our family name suffers from that brute from the west! Her Besshikime is that strange elven bitch that is always slinking in the shadows like a yakuza! She scares me more than the old shrew herself.”

Nao pivots his horse around and slaps the ten-year-old with his open hand, “That will be enough out of you Mitsuru. You are my apprentice, and you will act like one or I’ll dispatch your head myself! Your grandmother has more honor and understands the code better than the emperor himself. You don’t know all the past! This will stop now!”

His younger sister Kyo starts to cry in his mother’s lap. The 4-year-old also seems to be at her end from days on horseback too. Hikari coos at her then looks at his father. The whole family seems sullen from both weather and travel. Nao returns her stare. “A few hours. Just a few more hours.” Hikari bows slightly to him. The family moves on.

They finally come to a home on the side of a grand hill overlooking Dojyu. It’s a very large villa with several barns and fields running up and down the hill filled with war horses. To Tatsuo the 100-acre property looks like miles. Two women guard a gate that leads into the front yard. One leaves the other stays. His father gets off his horse and directs everyone else to do the same. After 5 minutes six more women come up to the gate. One is a creature Tatsuo has never seen before.

She is pale of skin with large, pointed ears. Her black hair is bound up not in a bun but rather in waves wrapped around her head. She bows silently to Nao. The other women take the reins of the horses and lead them in. The family follow the elven in and down the path to the front door.

The family follows the elf to the front of the house. Tatsuo’s grandfather and grandmother stand at the entrance waiting for them. His Uncle and aunt, Iwari Seiji and Takara stand to the side with their children Asuka is holding a one-year-old little boy in her arms.

Tatsuo is curiously horrified by his grandmother’s face. The deep scars along her jawline, going down her face, across the bridge of her nose makes the whole picture look as though it is an old, cracked or shattered mirror. He is not sure what to think. His grandfather looks like a giant over 6 ft tall with big, rounded eyes. And strangely short, cropped almost shaven hair. He has no traditional bud. His skin is pale not the darker peach color common in most noble Kozakurians.

They all come to the bottom of the stairs and bow together. His grandfather smiles as he recognizes them. “Welcome to our home Nao, Hikari. As you can see Seiji and Takara are already here. We still await Ryuu and his family.”

Hikari hands off Kyo to Nao and rushes up hugging Miwa, “Mother!”

“Aye, I’m still alive. Drasta is steadfast in her duties. She nags me more than a mother hen now days. Let’s get you all inside. It’s been a long journey for your family. They all get their own rooms. I’ll send the students and trainers into the practice barn for a few days.”

Tatsuo suddenly becomes elated thinking, “My own room!”

[Winterhawk99]

Ryuu, Asuka and their children arrive late in the night. It wakes Tatsuo up, but he quickly goes back to sleep. In the morning there is a giant spread on a grand table for breakfast. He thinks he is the first one up and runs to the breakfast table. His grandfather, mother and the elf already there.

He stops dead in his tracks. He looks at the food then the three people at the end of it. His grandfather sits at the head with his grandmother beside him on the left and the elf is sitting beside her. He thinks for a moment and approaches them cautiously. They all seem to stare at him with no emotion. As he gets within a few feet his grandfather snickers. He smiles. His grandmother turns to him with a slight frown but then also starts to smile. The elf lady’s face remains passive. He bows to them.

His grandfather stands and recognizes him with a deep bow. His grandmother says, “Tatsuo, Welcome. Come sit beside me.” The elven silently moves to the next cushion. His grandmother picks him up and puts him and sets him on the one Drasta had occupied.

Tatsuo eyes all the food. He sees steamed rice, miso soup, both tamagoyaki and onsen tamago, steamed broccoli with onions, pickled beans with chili, and fermented soybeans. He looks over at his grandmother’s plate at the think square of meat then turns back to the table. He doesn’t see another like it. His grandfather asks, “What would you like for breakfast?

He points to the soft-boiled eggs (Onsen tamago), then to the miso soup and then he points to Miwa’s plate, “What’s that?”

His grandfather smiles, “that’s giant squid. It’s your grandmother’s favorite food. It’s how I seduce her.”

Tatsuo looks up at him, “What’s seduce?”

Miwa responds for a smile, “You’re not quite ready for that yet but when your 13 or 14 your father will take you to a tea house and you’ll learn all about it.”

He points to the plate again, “I want that.”

Drasta comments, “A curious one.”

Miwa cuts a portion of her squid and places it on a plate for him to try. Drasta gets the other things he pointed at. His grandmother watches while he eats a few moments then asks, “Are you going to school yet, Tatsuo?” He nods. “And what are you learning?”

Tatsuo waits until he’s finished his bite, while the adults watch. Then he says, “My letters and my numbers.”
Miwa says, “Learn your letters really well. You learn your numbers too but don’t worry so much about them. When you’re married your wife will take care of all that for you.”

His grandfather chuckles, “That reminds me of our first fight. Would you like to hear the story Tatsuo?”

Tatsuo, wide eyed, nods.

His grandfather begins, “When I married your mother it was stipulated that I had to move here. So, I did. We bought a small villa in the city. The very first day I asked where our coin was and the things we got from the wedding. Some of it was there but not all of it. Miwa just said that it was all in safe hands.

Well, that didn’t go over very well for me, and I started to really question her on it. All she said was “Here is your 10-day allowance.”

That really angered me at first. We bickered over it, and she said she would wrestle me for it. I thought Ha! This smallish girl is going to beat me in wrestling. No way!” So, we wrestled……. I was not prepared for just how fast or hot she was.”

The boy asks, “Hot?”

Miwa nods, “Long ago I was blessed by the god Fire Bright. I can make my whole body hot so I can fire dance or walk on lava.”

Miwa looks at her husband, “And now we have this ranch and enough income to last the rest of our lives. We have two beautiful daughters and a handsome son…. And…. Your allowance has gone up almost every year.”

His grandfather smiles, “I am happy my little wolverine.”

Drasta grins, “And it was an interesting union.”

Ryuu and his family come in. They bow to the grandfather and take seats. Asuka puts Hisao who is 1 year old in Miwa’s arms. Miwa coos at the boy and plays with his fingers a bit then hands him to Drasta.

Tatsuo asks, “Who’s that?”

Miwa replies, “That’s your new cousin Hisao.”

Tatsuo then studies Drasta. “Why are your ears so big and pointed?”

She chuckles lightly, “That is a secret for when you are older, young one.”

“Why is your skin so pale?”

Drasta looks at Miwa, “Is this one always so curious, my lady?”

Miwa smiles, “It's only the 3rd time we’ve met.”

Seiji and his family filter in and finally Nao and his family. Mitsuru runs to the table. Miwa’s husband stands. “Excuse me?”

Mitsuru looks over at his grandfather's stern face then to his father who looks angry. He walks up and does a quick bow to him. Miwa narrows her eyes. "It's not polite to not do honor to your host when visiting young man. Are you not your father's apprentice?"

Mitsuru looks at her with a bit of anger then looks at Drasta. His face changes from anger to a slight bit of fear. "I’m sorry grandfather." He bows more correctly.

Drasta looks at the boy and shakes her head only slightly. Miwa looks at Tatsuo and whispers softly. “It’s time to go to your father and mother now. After breakfast we’ll go to the garden.”

Drasta reflects, “Have the statues been dept out of the garden Miwa?”

The grandfather points to the mat between Drasta and Miwa. The young boy slouches and goes over sitting between them. Miwa chuckles. “We could do that.”

The grandfather says, “Nao, please sit across from your mother-in-law.” He does so. Mitsuru looks at Miwa then stares at Drasta.

Drasta meets his eyes. “Yes?” He turns his head and looks down at the empty plates that Tatsuo left.

Nao comments, “He’s been difficult the last two months and starting to look at girls.”

Miwa studies the young man, “Seems a few years early for all of this. What are you going to do about it, Nao?” She then turns to her besshikime, “What would you suggest?”

Nao looks at Miwa’s husband for support. The grandfather shakes his head. “The one thing I have learned in this land is never get involved in samurai or onna-bugeisha affairs. It ends up hurting too much.”

Drasta looks between them, “Perhaps something to challenge as well as teach him.”

Miwa smiles, “I have a few stallions that need to be broken. Perhaps it’s time for Mitsuru to learn, while Nao teaches him. And I don’t want to see you Nao on a horse. What do you think, Drasta?”

“That may suffice. It is a lesson in both patience and breaking of both beings.”

Nao stands up and stiffly bows to Miwa and her husband. Mitsuru complains, "But I haven't eaten yet."

His grandfather states, "You will eat after you have broken two horses or night overcomes you." Miwa nods to her husband."

Drasta dips her head in a slight bow to them.

Miwa's husband says, "I don't always like your training tactics, Miwa. He could break something."

Miwa sighs, "It's better than a whipping post."

Drasta adds, “If he breaks himself then it will be a lesson of a different nature, no?”

He grunts, "You're from the west too Drasta. Don't you think these harsh ways are barbaric?"

“At times though they do serve a purpose which I had to learn.”

Miwa says, "As you know these lands are harsh and unforgiving my husband, and you well know my case was unique."

The men stand up. Honorifics are conducted and all of them file out of the home leaving the women and children. Miwa says, "Shall we let the children play in the garden?" The children and women get up and bow to Miwa and they all go to the garden.

Story by Winterhawk99 and Maxalpd

[Winterhawk99]

Mats are set on the porch. Miwa kneels on the one in the center of the top of the stairs. Drasta right beside her on the left. Hikari, Asuka, Takara, and Miyuke (Hikari’s 12-year-old girl) sit around the pair. Drasta looks around and gives a nod to all of them while telling Miwa, “So, your dream has come true after all these years.”

Miwa smiles, “So it has my friend.”

All the grandchildren are playing in the garden, feeding the Koi or talking to each other.
Takara looks at her mother, "I see another scar! Drasta did mother go out alone again?"

“It may be so but there are things we do not speak of… correct?”

Takara retorts to Miwa, “How long can you do this? You’re in your 50s. Let me take over Mom. I can do it.”

Drasta chuckles, “50’s already? It does not feel that long.”

Miwa laughs, "I sometimes forget the forever young. Takara......... You're not ready yet. You think 2 months out of the year is plenty of training. A few battles and you’re ready to lead. I will know when you are ready to lead. Patience."

"Drasta, you see it. Mother is slower now. Her great strength is.... Well, she’s slowing down. Mother you've done your service for a lifetime. It's time to just train the others. Let me lead in battle."

“Is she? I am sure it is not so much as you think young one.”

Miwa sighs, "Takara you are my youngest daughter and ever a good second. I could not bear to have you take my place only to die. You are not ready yet. You will make mistakes that I can still teach you not to make. Please, I'm still healthy. A few more years and you will be ready."

Drasta nods to Takara. Asuka says, “Asuka says, "The emperor. He still needs both of you and the unit in question. Miwa has done great service, but her experience is important. Listen to her Takara."

Miyuke asks, "What is everyone talking about?"

Hikari says to her daughter, "We are not privy to the thoughts of war and those of the Onna-bugeisha.”

Miyuke asks, “Is that why they are talking in shrouds?”

Miwa looks over, "Miyuke my apologies. Your parents thought it best you do not become an Onna-bugeisha: and I agree. It takes some talent. You are a very smart girl but there are other things that are needed; a certain amount of strength and co-ordination."

Hikari says, "Your father and I will find you a good husband. When we do, keep him well fed and happy. And remember to keep count of your coins, but as long as he’s well fed, he will be happy." Miwa and Asuka both chuckle at that. Drasta smirks slightly.

Takara asks Drasta, “Has Furi come to see you lately? Is she well?”

“It has been some time but the last I had seen her she was well as one can be at her age.
She does always have some little test she enjoys trying as well.”

Hikari says, "Iver heard several of the apprentices have offered themselves to Miwa, but she’s denied them all."

Miwa shakes her head, "I have enough to handle with my man. He demands I soak myself in ice water before I see him. I accidentally burned him a few times."

Takara laughs, "You're such a prude mother you should enjoy yourself once in a while. I know you have your papers."

Drasta chuckles, “Yes, his scream the first time was…… chuckles. I had to make sure they were ok and barged in.”

Hikari gets into the teasing, "why is our mother such a prude, Drasta? Have you two ever?"

Drasta laughs at that. “No child. Not since we met near 30 years ago.”

Miwa shakes her head, "Twice, three times when I was much younger. I just like the feel of a man besides have you seen my husband?"

Asuka laughs, "She's got us on that one."

Tatsuo suddenly starts flailing around himself screaming and runs up to the porch. Miwa grabs him and holds him around his arms, "What's wrong?"

"A gia..........giant...........grr..........green bee was after me!"

Drasta questions the boy, “A giant green bee?” Hikari puts her hand to her mouth hiding a smile.

After he calms down Miwa has him sit with her. He turns to Drasta. "It was this big!" His hands are about 10 inches apart. "And its stinger was on its nose.” It was a giant stinger He spreads his hands as far as he can stretching them out.

Drasta smiles, “You don’t say?”

Takara and Miyuke now must cover their mouths with their hands. His eyes go wide, and he nods.

Drasta chuckles lightly. “And where did you see this creature?”

He points to where he was playing. “Over there.”

Miwa shakes her head, "I've never seen a giant green bee in the garden, maybe we can lure it over?"

Drasta looks up like she’s reflecting. “And how would you suggest this? Taunt it with the child?” chuckles playfully. “Perhaps we turn the whole garden green as well?”

Asuka smiles mischievously. “Perhaps a big potted plant from the house?”

Miwa turns to Drasta, "I'll hold Tatsuo go get the tiger lilies from the entrance." Drasta nods and goes to retrieve them. When she comes back with a big pot of lilies Takara takes them. Miwa has Drasta sit down on the mat western style and puts Tatsuo in her arms. Takara puts the tiger lilies in front of them both. She holds the child gently.

Hakari and Miyuke go behind the elf and rest their heads on her shoulders. Miwa squeezes up next to her. Asuka and Takara fit themselves in behind. Miwa says, “Ok……. Every stay very still and quiet and maybe we can lure Tatsuo’s giant bee to us.”

Tatsuo holds his breath. After his face turns two shades of blue, he lets it out and looks up at Drasta. She looks down and puts her finger to her lips. Drasta whispers to him “Patience and stillness and they will come to us.”

After a few minutes a hummingbird flies in and starts to hover in front of the flowers. Tatsue nearly jumps up, throws out his hand and says, "That's it! Thats the giant green bee!" The hummingbird darts off. The women all giggle and laugh. Tatsuo looks around confused.

Miwa says, “Do you want to tell him, Drasta? He looks up at the elf again.

“Is it my place too?”

Takara says, “Come on. You’re like our big sister.”

She looks down and chuckles, “Big green bug... These creatures are birds that are elegant and graceful, they will not hurt you unless you’re a flower. Though you will never see them outside of this garden unless you travel one day. They say your grandmother brought them here, but I think they followed her out of jealousy.

Miwa smiles, "Now quiet down and maybe another will come. Tatsuo, stay very still. It can’t hurt you. just watch it drink the flowers nectar."

Drasta moves the vase closer to Tatsuo and herself very slowly and gently so as not to scare off the birds. All the women are hugging Drasta. Tatsuo is watching the flowers. After about 10 minutes another comes this one is a brown female. It hovers and inspects the flowers a second. It darts to one and sips some nectar then darts out and hovers again. It moves from side to side then darts at another flower drinking its nectar. After only a couple of seconds it darts out again. If floats there for a minute, then zips off again.

Tatsuo cranes his head back and looks at all the women. "That was amazing."

Drasta has a heartwarming smile on her face that very few ever see. Miwa asks, “What did you see, Tatsuo?”

“It’s a tiny bird that can float in place."

Takara asks, "anything else?"

"Its wings flap so fast you can’t even see them."

Takara nods. "Did you also notice how it darts in one flower; drinks really fast then darts out and goes to another?"

"OH! YEA! IT DID!"

Asuka chuckles, "Thats the most important part."

Drasta muses, “Very few creatures have that speed and accuracy in their movement and even fewer are as beautiful when they do it. glances to Miwa.”

Takara smiles, “that is the true beauty of a hummingbird.”

Tatsuo says, “That’s so amazing!”

The girls laugh. Hikari shakes her head. “Mother and her hummingbird fetish.”

Drasta comments, “If you had seen her many moons ago.” She chuckles. “But that may be a story for another time.” She chuckles again a bit heartier. “Perhaps that is one reason your father loved her so.”

Miwa nods, “Now go play with your sisters and cousins.” Drasta pats the child on the head and releases him. Takara rubs her nose so that Drasta can see. She’s pointing to Hikari and Miyuke.

Everyone moves their mats back to where they were. A girl comes out and pours everyone tea.

Drasta waits for the child to leave then lets her expression rest to a normal serious expression, “You have news of anything I should be aware of?”

Asuka sighs, "Rumors of the Koryoans beating drums "

“Once again?” Drasta sighs.

Takara says "The Takenakas recently visited the Barasumes. Rumor has it that they are looking to be on the move and are entreating Shogun Barasume Hideo for an alliance."

Drasta asks, “And your thoughts on these?”

She says, "I'm not sure. Hideo has a large force and wealth and good advisors. If Takenaka can entreat him there may be some trouble."

Drasta turns to Miwa. “Should we send a visitor to negotiate, Bird?”

Miwa nods, “I’ll send a letter to the emperor.”

Drasta smirks after hearing that and nods, “Perhaps if Furi visits us again soon she may have more information as well. What do we know of why the others drum beat?”

Asuka affirms, “Hai.”

Miwa says, "The Koryoans are always beating the drums."

Drasta answers, “I dislike it.... But it is their nature.” chuckles.

Takara says, "they hate us, and we hate them. The situation is normal."

Drasta comments, “Ahh good then. I enjoy that.” She then turns to her matron. “Miwa Do you remember if she was to visit next full or new moon?”

"You can never tell. I need to be in court tomorrow. I will ask that; you wish to see her. That reminds me could you be a dear and tend to the ladies and children. My husband will tend to the men. I'll be ok in the city. there will be plenty of Samurai in the courtroom."

“You know how I feel leaving you alone anywhere....”

Takara grunts. "I'll take care of the place. Your besshikime should not leave your side mother."

Miwa shakes her head. "I thought I was the mother here. Alright make sure the rest of the family doesn’t go where they shouldn’t Takara. Drasta, you come to court."

Drasta nods and bows slightly to Miwa. The Matron stands. “I am going to take an ice bath. You ladies keep the children away from my room for a while and someone snatch my husband for me."

Drasta chuckles. Miwa stands and bows to the group then walks down the hallway. Drasta looks at everyone else. “Shall I fetch the old man or would one of you be a dear? I do tend to scare him on occasion.”

Hikari says, "I'll fetch dad. You enjoy the children playing. They aren’t teens yet so there will be no broken bones."

Drasta comments, “No training yet?”

Takara says, "Not while everyone is here. The girls are training in the special barn. You can go up there if you like Drasta."

“You know I will yet what is your opinion on their progress? She sips her tea”

Takara says, “I’m not sure it’s been a few months. Each of us spends 2 months a year here in training. those who have graduated.”

Asuka says, "We lost 2 of 5 new ones. they couldn’t hack it. We'll see how the others turn out."

Drasta nods to both. “Both Then let us go and see. Would you like to walk or try to beat me there?” chuckles.

Takara says, "If we go now that will leave Asuka and Miyuke with a great many children to come. Let’s do this tomorrow."

Drasta gives up. “Well then let us enjoy the time we have with the younger ones It has been some time since they have all been together and your mother does enjoy it when they are here. Unless you have something else in mind other than this?”

Asuka says, "Its peaceful and we have tea. Let us enjoy the moment."

Story by Winterhawk99 and Maxalpd

[Winterhawk99]

Tatsuo has been staying at the tea house across from the wave renting a small bedroom to sleep and stretch in. The room is sparce except for his equipment. It has a small desk called a zen dai, a tansu to keep his law and research books in, a shikifuton on top of a tatami mat with a pillow and placed in the back of the room with great reverence is a muti leveled Katanakate which is holding three katanas in their sheaths and two wakizashi. In front of that is a small idol of Amaterasu.

He ends his stretching exercises and begins shadow boxing with some kicks and punches while thinking. Tatsuo had been instructed not only in the Samuari and bushido way but also in the way of the Sohei. His onna-bugeisha mistress needed him to know the fighting art of the Sohei to mimic her style of fighting. Thus, his grandmother had sent for the fabled monks to teach him their ways along with her way of Bushido and sword fighting.

After he is drenched with sweat, he moves over to the idol and stand. He bows to them and says a short prayer. He picks up the Katana with a dwarven rune for “D” on the pommel cap. The sword called Edge of Divinity was his grandmother’s mithral blade tempered in her own blood was made in the west by a dwarven master on the Island of Thain.

Tatsuo tries to unsheathe it with all his strength. It will not budge a millimeter. He sets it back on the stand with both hands in reverence and respect and picks up a wakizashi made by the same smith in the same way. He tries to unsheathe it next. This blade called Edge of Thunder does not acquiesce to his grip. He places it back in its place and sits in front of the stand in a full lotus position thinking to himself, ‘I am still not worthy to be their master.’

After some meditation he unsheathes the rest of the blades cleaning and rubbing them down with a clove oil-soaked rag.

He hears a light tapping on the door to his room. Sliding the door open he finds a young woman. He smiles. She’s not much older than a girl, maybe 17 or 18 but again not much younger than him at 19. She bows and asks, “Would you alike company tonight Ambassador Uesuki?”

He recognizes her politely. “Not tonight. My yin seems to be in balance, and I must keep count of my coin while I am in the west.”

“It’s sad you have to succumb to a woman’s job my lord. I’m sure if you ask one of them would keep count for you. It’s unbecoming a Samurai to have to keep track of their coin.”

“And the price, Aiami? I would imagine a contract for the one counting to become a concubine or second wife. I am still unmarried. I will find out my fiancé’s name once I return after 5 years of service.”

Aiami pouts, “Are you sure you do not want to pillow tonight? I’ll make you happy, I promise.”

“I am sure you would, perhaps tomorrow. In the meantime.” He goes to the Tansue and pulls out a small box. Walking back, he gives it to her with both hands again. She opens it to find 5 rubies within, she smiles and bows respectfully to him. “It is a most gracious gift.”

He smiles and recognizes her. “I must do some writing. Be at peace, Aiami.” She leaves looking in the box. He smiles and slides the door closed again. Going to his writing desk he picks up his journal and quill.

On my second week here I met a Reagent Roxy. I believe that is her given not family or clan name. She hails from a place called the obsidian island and is charged with helping to form a new government. She was quite generous with both her coin and the information she gave me. I did my best to council her on the Kozakurian form of government. I talked about some of the traditions, laws and stations within our government. I do hope that I helped her.

I did feel somewhat uneasy around her though. Her attention span is not long, and I am not sure if she has a good heart or not. I also told her a few stories. She helped me greatly and I do feel I owe her for all that she has done for me.

A dwarf sat with us for a time. I felt much more uneasy around him. Perhaps how he presented himself or the way he moved. Some things are not taken in consciously, sometimes someone just makes you feel nervous down to your bones. I got that feeling around him.

She has not talked much about trade negotiations yet. I will study first this obsidian island and see what I might find before further entertaining the idea.

I also met Jarl Ryrick. This man seemed to know some of Kozakurian ways. He was very polite and courteous to my presence. As we talked, I realized that he may have made a great samurai himself. I found out that a Jarl is somewhat akin to a Daimyo in the leadership structure of his people. So, a lord by right. He told me he is very interested in starting up trade negotiations. He was in fact enthusiastic about such correspondence. We talked about our major exports and some of the things both of us would like to import. He seemed very interested in Kozakurian silk. It is in fact the best silk in all the world and our most important export. He was also interested in rice, also a major export of ours.

I will be sending a formal request to him for an audience while I am studying here. I do believe we may come to an agreement after proper negotiations. I must find a way to get the products back and forth of course.

Amia is in the great western sea. But there is a continent between Amia and Kozakura. Having the warehouses in Telflamm export shipments would be ludicrous. I will have to ask around about the best trade routes. If this comes about and there comes an agreement, I must make sure Kozakurian interest in profits are upheld. I know I am still young, but the emperor expects me to perform my duties in diligence with an eye on expenses and profits. A hard task this far away from home.

[Winterhawk99]

Tatsuo puts his quill down a moment and sinks into a deep meditation as he remembers the past.

Tatsuo and his father Nao are almost at the gates of his grandparents’ ranch. His father tells him. “Remember if they accept you for schooling to obey their commands. Be a good boy Tatsuo follow instructions and do your family honor.”

The seven-year-old nods and asks, “I thought school was over for a long time? That’s what everyone told me?”

“Officially, yes. But for a noble Tatsuo it is not. Think of this school as a fun school. You’ll get to ride horses more often, playfight with your grandmother and grandfather and see if the law interests you. If you don’t then we will find another teacher to teach you something else. Just remember your manners and you will be ok. It will be fun.”

They get to the gate and wait. The strange elven woman again comes to it after the guard leaves. Tatsuo and his father get off their horses and bow to her. Drasta recognizes them. “Good evening.”

Nao says, “I’m bringing Tatsuo to you over his three-month vacation. He’s got a good head on his shoulders. Hikari and I would like him to study with his grandparents about bushido and the laws. Perhaps he could go into the legal field. May we enter?”

Drasta looks them over briefly, I see no reason why you are not welcome. She gestures to the guards. “I will walk with them.”

Tatsuo walks behind her beside her father studying those long-pointed ears. She asks his father. Your father-in-law is in his office. The ambassador is in her garden where would you like me to take you?”

Nao says, “The garden if you will.”

They walk slightly behind her to the garden. Nao stops him and makes him wait at the entrance. The elf moves forward. His grandmother stands and proper honorifics are done, after which they speak. Tatsuo overhears the conversation just barely.

“Miwa, Nao has come with Tatsuo. He would like you and your husband to school him in the law and code while he is on school vacation.”

His grandmother blinks, "Drasta, you know how busy I am with court these days and training the girls. A boy here? I don't know."

“I understand, shall I bring him to his grandfather?” His grandmother thinks then nods. “Would you like to speak with Nao in the time?”

“I’m sure my husband will call me if I am needed.”

The besshikime nods and heads back toward them, “Come we will see your grandfather. My lady is busy at this time.”

She brings them to his office. His grandfather stands. After proper honorifics he holds out his hands with a smile, “Tatsuo, come here.” He runs up to his grandfather who picks him up and holds him in a hug. He turns to Nao. While Drasta gestures his father to stand by her.

Nao bows again, “Excuse me sir. I have brought Tatsuo here to train and learn if he has an aptitude for the law and ways of bushido while he’s at school vacations. He’s gotten good grades in school and can write rather well.”

His grandfather turns to Drasta, “What did Miwa say? She’s the magistrate.”

Drasta’s eyes shift to her lord’s, and she shakes her head slightly, “She was uncertain how a boy would perform on our grounds or if he would be up to how they say Par in your land. For a more elaborate explanation.”

His grandfather looks disappointed being that he was never taught not to show emotion. “Is that so? I personally would like another man around. There are too many damn women here and just me. Get my wife now.” Drasta disappears to retrieve Miwa.

After a 10 minute wait the two women come in. His grandmother steps forward and bows to her husband who is still holding him in his arms. He bows slightly in recognition. “Nao wishes you to teach our grandson about bushido and the law. I can think of no one better to do it. And besides that, I would like another man at the house. It’s been too long so.... He will spend the summer here and you will teach him to the best of your ability. As I start to teach him western common and Drasta elven."

Drasta raises an eyebrow at him which Tatsuo notices. He isn’t sure what that means. He’s never seen the expression before. His grandmother curtly and stiffly bows, “Yes, my husband.” She turns around and leaves.

His grandfather looks at Drasta then his father. "She'll get over it and in the end. She'll be happy he’s here. Just make sure the training barn stays locked. I'll teach him some western sword play. Wouldn’t that be neat, Tatsuo?"

He nods, “I like that grandpa.”

Drasta nods to him, “As long as we leave it at that.”

His grandfather affirms, “We will.”

She bows her head in thanks, “Which lessons shall we attempt to teach him first?”

"I think we should make sure Miwa gets over it first. The best way to do that is make her start with the teaching. We'll each give him a couple of hours a day after she starts in a few weeks. How does that sound?"
“Perhaps a day for her to get her head wrapped around the idea as well?”

“Hmm, good idea. I’ll take a ride with him. Test him on his horsemanship.”

“I am sure it will be better than mine.” She chuckles.

He laughs. “He’s 7. Plenty of time for more advanced lessons, later.”

“Shall I check in with your wife in the meantime?” She thinks for a moment. “And make sure the barn is indeed locked.”

He nods. “You are dismissed to do that and tend to her. I’ll take Tatsuo on a walk of the property.”
Drasta bows and leaves after being recognized. Still holding him his grandfather says. “You are welcome to stay the night Nao.”

“Gratitude father. My boy is in your hands. Teach him well.” He bows.

After his grandfather recognizes him, his father leaves. His grandfather looks at him and smiles. “Well let’s walk around the property and take a good look. I know a nice place to work on swordplay.”

“That’s a lot of miles grandpa?”

His grandfather shakes his head and rustles Tatsuo’s hair. “Ah, green eyes. You get that from me. You’ll be a real lady-killer when you get older with those eyes.”

“What’s that mean?”

His grandfather winks, “We’ll talk about that in a few years.”

After a few weeks Drasta, a good group of girls along with Tatsuo are in the bathhouse. After he is finished, he walks up to Drasta’s tub and puts his chin on the edge. "Drasta? How come I never see grandmother at the bathhouse. I see everyone else, but I never see her?"

Drasta looks at him. “She Has her own time for reasons of her own. Perhaps someday you may understand young one.”

“You mean she doesn’t wash?”

She shakes her head. “That is not what I mean. She takes her baths more privately and that is for a reason from her past.”

He looks up confused, “Why?”

She lifts her hand out of the water with her arm covered in burn scars and old lacerations and touches his cheek. “Perhaps, she does not want to scare you.”

He thinks about that a long time looking around but unfocused then looks at Drasta’s scars. “Do you mean the rest of her looks like a shattered mirror too?"

Drasta chuckles a bit. “We will not speak of this again, I think. Perhaps if you want a full answer, you could ask...Though I am unsure of the response you would receive.” She gets out of the tub and looks down ushering him along. “Now come let's get dressed you have lessons soon.”

“Ok.” He does what Drasta says but she can see he’s still thinking about it.

“We each have our trials and secrets; some we do not want our people to see.”

Story by Winterhawk99 and Maxalpd

[Winterhawk99]

Tatsuo comes out of his trance and picks up his quill again. He secretly worries to himself. ‘It’s my first official letter in these western lands. Amaterasu, help me make this letter the best I have ever done.’ He takes out a fresh sheet of paper and starts penning it. After a few minutes he crumbles it up and gets a fresh sheet out thinking about his schooling and law apprenticeship.


.....Jarl Ryrick of Wiltun and councilors, well met and good fortune to you.


.....My name Ambassador Uesuki Tatsuo hailing from the Empire of Kozakura. My court name is: 太陽の静寂 pronounced Taiyo no Shizukesa. I must use my court name on any official imperial business thus for the remainder of this letter that is my name of recognition.
.....Jarl Ryrick and I have met by divine providence. We spoke for some length of time about trade and goods we export and import. The Jarl in his graciousness has offered an invitation to further speak with me in a formal setting about a possible partnership between the empire of Kozakura and the territory of Wiltun.
.....Thus, I humbly ask for an audience to discuss a possible trade negotiation trade between the two countries. Both countries could gain both profit, honor and a better state of living for its people when such negotiations prove fruitful.
.....I am currently staying at the teahouse across the road from the Wave adventuring guild. You may send correspondence there with either my family name Ambassador Uesuki or my court name Ambassador Taiyo no Shizukesa.

.... I Thank you and Be at Peace.

....太陽の静寂

.....Ambassador Taiyo no Shizukesa.

Tatsuo puts his quill down and studies the letter. He thinks to himself, “Not subservient nor to flowery. I hope I nailed it. It’s short but traditional.” He rolls it up, melts some wax on it and places his imperial ambassador’s seal on it. Next, he places it in a scroll tube and seals that stamping the seal again with his imperial seal.

He doesn’t hesitate instead he takes a ship to Wiltun and hand delivers it to the man at the desk in the keep that sent him on the quarry master hunt. There he bows to him and holds out the scroll tube with both hands.

After it is received Tatsuo goes back home for more studies on the various city state’s laws in the region. Late at night he falls asleep at his desk and dreams of the past.

[Winterhawk99]

Two months after Tatsuo starts his training his grandmother, Miwa warms up to teaching him. Everyone keeps him away from the girls and their training. They also make sure he is studying with his grandfather or alone in the house while Miwa and Drasta are with the girls. One morning a month before he starts school again in his own clan’s holdings, Miwa and Drasta take him to court. He has been there several times, but this day would be special and mark him for the rest of his life.

Miwa has 5 folders in a case. She turns to Drasta. “I have a special mission if you want it?”

“What do you wish of me?”

"I need you to go to jail and listen. I'll write a short letter to the magistrate there. A ship was stopped along the coast. There were a lot of manacles and other.... things on it. The crew was detained. You are a foreign yakuza that got caught and thrown in a cell just across from them. Find out if they are really just western merchants or something darker while I prepare cases."

“It seems a simple task. I can do this for you.”

Tatsuo listens silently while they speak. Soon enough they get to the jail near the imperial court. Drasta dismounts and ties her horse there. He and his grandmother continue to court. They go to her courtroom and come to the throne there. Both bow to the throne and go to the side office. Miwa unlocks it. Tatsuo walks in and helps her with the window curtains. Miwa goes to her desk and opens the folders continuing her research on her cases. Tatsuo sits down.

After a while he asks, “Why do you kneel at the left side of the throne if you are the judge?

Miwa looks up. “That is my place as judge.”

“All the others sit on the throne when I peek in the other courtrooms.”

“They are men. I’m a woman. Women always sit at the left of the throne, their husband, Daimyo or Shogun. It’s disrespectful to the emperor for a woman to sit as such in judgement.”

“But you can, while kneeling on the side?”

“Yes. There are very few women judges Tatsuo. It is a great privilege to hold so much responsibility.”

“Drasta always stays to your left. Is she your wife?”

Miwa chuckles, “No. She’s my Besshikime, Tatsuo. You know that. She’s, my bodyguard.”

“Then why is she always on your left?”

“If I have need to draw my swords, her body will not interfere with my movements. I can protect her as she does me with her smaller weapons and bow when she has her bow.”

“OH! Is that why women are always on the left so their man can protect them?”

Miwa smiles again. “You’re starting to get it. Some wouldn’t you know. They do and do not think.”

Tatsuo claps and his grandmother frowns. “Clapping is for the theater; Tatsuo remember to place those strong emotions somewhere deep in your head. There are times to clap, to cry, to laugh and times when you must not show your emotions. Court is one of them.”

Tatsuo makes a big sigh, “Ok!” Miwa smiles slightly and shakes her head.

Drasta returns to the office. Her face is swollen, and she has a black eye. Her hair has been tussled and some of it has been pulled up. Tatsuo cups his hands over his mouth and his eyes light up in shock. Miwa helps her with her makeup to cover it up. She looks over at the boy while doing it. “Tatsuo when we go out you will help with the court writer. Help him take everything down to the letter.”

“Yes, Grandma.”

“That’s a good boy.” Drasta stands quietly waiting to speak.

“Miwa asks, “What did you find, my friend.”

“They are here to take and sell the women of this land...Their so-called captain is not and is a bard so I would request for some anti-magic other than mine in the court and execution for the rest.”

She tells the full tale. Tatsuo imagines himself there watching the scenes unfold as a ninja spy.

Drasta goes to the jail house and finds the head jailer. After proper honorifics he asks, “What can I do for you Drasta?”

“I have been asked to be my lady’s ears on those you took from the ship.” She raises her hands. “If you would not mind taking me to an area I can listen like a prisoner. And do not treat me special make it proper.”

He sighs, “Ok, you know it’s going to hurt and make sure we have to drag you to the cell. There's some peasant clothing in the closet."”

“I would like to keep that over my armor if allowed. And you know I can handle this.”

He nods, “Alright just keep the armor out of sight. I need all your weapons except your hair garrot.”

She changes giving up all her weapons except the wire in her hair made to look like a hair tie. She then makes sure her chest piece is tucked away and hidden excessively while doing so.

The jailer brings some of his guys in and they beat her a few times with their clubs until it looks like she’s had a full match with a Sohei monk. They then put manacles on her and walk her down to the dungeon. As they open the door it’s her cue to get belligerent.

She spits at the guards and swears at them in common. “You’ll pay for this. You fucking bastard, I’ll have your head mounted on a pole in front of my house and make your children look at it every day!” She kicks out on one of the guard shins pushing him back.

Two of the guards start beating on her the shoulders and back while the jailer is pulling her by the manacles. She stumbles and falls. The jailer keeps dragging her while she’s screaming obscenities in low shou. He has one of his men open the jail cell and he literally throws her in it. They lock the door and leave. There's one man in the jail cell with her. Across the walkway the cells are full of western humans in sailor outfits. Some don’t match. They laugh at her the whole time. some commenting in western common.

Drasta growls angrily but obviously isn’t too badly beat and is able to listen. She says in common, “They are all dead! Every one of them, DEAD!”

A young crew member says, “Hey this one speaks common.”

Another young man says, "She'd fetch a good price and elven cunts are tighter than even these small savage women here." Some of the crew laughs at that.

“Keep going and I’ll have your head too… PRICK!”

An older gentleman of about 40 walks to the edge of his sell, “That so. An elven thief aye, you could make some good coin with a good outfit.”

“Yeah, you have work then?”

The older man straightens his captain’s hat. “Yea, maybe.”

The man in her cell goes to the corner and stays silent but is looking at Drasta funny then to the pirates across the way. The jailers come down with a well-dressed young lawyer. They move to the center and turn to the crew. One of the guards turns to Drasta, takes a stick and hits the bars near her hands looking at her sternly. She takes a step back glaring at him.

The lawyer turns to the crew and in broken common says, “I am your lawyer today at court. You say?” He reads some pages, “You are lost merchant ship?”

The older gentleman smiles, “That’s right!”

Drasta wraps her hands around the bars staring at the guards.

“You be tried in the court of honorable Mayonaka Sakura. Tell me of you plight. How you get to our shores and what business is so can defend you.”

A handsome young man comes up to the captain, "Hey boss. I speak that highbrow eastern language. Our judge is a girl."

Drasta calls out, “Good! Maybe I can sweet talk her while you keep your mouths shut.”

The captain grins. “Maybe she’s one of them lesbians and we need this one here to speak for us?” He points to Drasta.

Drasta smiles, “I have my way with the women… You have no idea.”

The jailer looks at Drasta and beats the bars with his club, “NO talking, you despicable thief!”

She growls and takes another step back.

The captain looks at the lawyer. “We don’t need you. We got us a bard that can sweet talk a dragon out of her pants. Bugger off.”

The lawyer starts to protest, "You do not understand........."

He'll seduce her and once he has his way with her in her chambers, we'll get off Scot free. Ain't that right Sam?"

Sam laughs. “Especially if she’s older, may need some grease if she’s and old dried-up bat but I can do it.”

The captain looks back at the lawyer, "Bugger off."

The lawyer and the jailer leave. The man in the cell has a moment of bravery. He looks at Drasta again obviously recognizing her. He takes his cup to the bars to get the crew’s attention. She grabs him and throws him against the wall. She whispers directly into his ear in low shou. “You speak you lose everything. You help me, and I’ll help you. Then in common she loudly proclaims, “YOU MOVE WHEN I TELL YOU TO MOVE THIS IS MY CELL NOW!”

The captain looks impressed, "Will you look at that. The elven bitch has some balls on her. I like that."

Drasta says, “Fuck off. You got your own problems. or I’ll kill one of you from here.”

He smiles, “And just how you gonna do that, lass?”

She picks up a piece of straw and a pebble. “Try me and you’ll see…!”

“I like you. What’s your name?”

“Raven.”

“Raven aye. Tell you what after Sam here gets us out of this how you like to join a crew?”

“Depends. What are you after?”

"It’s quite profitable. We go up and down the coast of this place. We catch women chain them down in our hold and sell them in Amn to businessmen from all over. Amn, Mulmaster, Thay, Mulhorand. They come to Calimshan to buy these slant eyed cunts. They pick up some of the best coin you know. In 10 years, you'll be able to retire a rich woman."

“I like gold… It sounds enticing.”

“You're in…. That is if you can get out of whatever they caught you for and you don’t lose too many body parts.”

She cackles, “I can get out of near anything you don't need to worry about that.” She winks
“Do you think this is the first time I’ve seen this jail cell or any of them. Thats funny.” She chuckles loudly.

He nods, "Good." He then turns to the bard and switches hats with him. “Welcome aboard Capt'in Sam Mulligan, I'm your rugged first officer. You give that Judge a good satisfying piece of yourself so we can get out of this mess."

The bard does a pose. "I will lieutenant, I most certainly will!"

Drasta thinks for a moment, “Yea Sing that old hag a song! That’ll do it!”

After about 15 minutes the jailer and two of his men come down. He beats on Drasta’s cell. She steps back and waits for a second. The jailer asks, “You going to be a good girl this time or do we have to beat you all the way to the courthouse?"

She huffs and says, “I’ll still have your head either way!”

“Yes, yes. Put her hands though the bars.”

She places her hands through nodding. He puts the manacles back on her. They open the door and lead her back to the office. While she is changing, he asks, “Did you get everything you need?”

Yes, the one who will say is their captain is not, so you know and keep your ears and mind clear they have a bard. Also... The man in my cell what was his crime?”

"He’s a local gambler and lay about. Most likely part of the syndicate. though we haven't caught him on that charge yet."

“Send him to my quarters and lock him to something with 3 guards. no... Make it 6. Highly trained with at least 1 bird.”

"Will do and tell Miwa Gozen apologies for the beating you took." He turns to his men. Get the lay about out of his cell. and here to this office immediately."

She nods, “It was necessary, and I asked for it. Shall we now.”

Drasta finishes her story. Miwa’s face during that time has become a mask of passive indifference. She says, “Their court case is next to last. I can have a wu-jen put a protection spell on the stage."

“It would be best Miwa. If it comes to it, I would like my bow as well if they try to run.”

"I'll double the samurai guard. You have your throwing knives, hair pins and fan. but bring several katanas in case I need them."

Drasta bows, “Of course.”

Tatsuo looks up, “What's going on? You two usually don’t speak much before court?"

Drasta says, “The man that was in my cell is guarded in my quarters for us to question later.” She then looks back and down. “Intricacies young one.” She turns again to her matron. “I will keep him behind if needed.

Miwa nods. “If anything happens go to the stenographer’s place and protect him. I have my daisho and kaiken." Drasta nods and Miwa continues. “Drasta my last case it involves a dispute between Barasume and Shinto. I am not sure I am the one to take it. but both insisted.”

“I understand. I will be there if you need my aid. That one may be more difficult.”

“Miwa nods and takes up her symbol of office. A Sai, which is the symbol that a judge holds while reigning over court. The three of them walk out into the courtroom.

Story by Winterhawk99 and Maxalpd.

[Winterhawk99]

As they enter court, Drasta is a half-step behind Miwa watching and listening to everything. Miwa walks into the courtroom and up on the stage. Theres an elaborate Kozakurian chair in the center. She comes up to it, bows to the chair and kneels on a mat to the left of it. Tatsuo goes to the stenographer's place and Drasta goes behind Miwa standing. The 8 samurai guard come in and bow to the throne. Miwa stands and bows to them. They recognize her. She then kneels and places folders on the ground in front of her on a low table. She writes a note and holds it up a guard takes it and leaves.

They wait another ten minutes and a wu-jen come in. After honorifics he casts several spells on the stage area.

When all are in place. A young woman in her twenties comes in with a man of about 30. They stand to the left of the throne in front of the stage. A woman in her 50s comes in with a lawyer. They walk up and stand to the right. all of them then bow to the throne and then to Miwa. She stands and recognizes them. After kneeling she opens the folder. Drasta stands a bit firmer, listening and watching.

Miwa speaks. “Ren, peasant of the Taira clan charges her daughter Mayumi, peasant of the Asai clan with adultery. Prosecution may proceed.”

The lawyer takes a step forward. "It has been proven but several eyewitnesses that Mayumi has slept with another man. This reprehensible act and breach of marriage contract demands the death of the defendant."

Miwa’s face turns to a passive, aloof mask. She says, “Call your witnesses council.”

The door opens and a man and woman come in and stand beside the lawyer. The lawyer faces them. He points to Mayumi. "You saw with your own eyes this woman in bed with a man other than her husband?"

They both nod. "They were practicing shunga at the home of my neighbor. I heard a loud moaning and we both peeked in and saw the two of them at it."

The lawyer says, "You are sure it was this woman?"

They both say, “Yes.”

Drasta’s eyes shift to each person talking as if judging if the truth is told.

Miwa asks, “Is the man in question available?”

The lawyer shakes his head. “No, your honor.”

Miwa asks, “Is there anything to add?”

The mother-in-law says, "Yes there is. She’s pregnant and my poor boy cannot have children anymore. He’s married to this slut that hoars herself out to any man available."

Drasta leans down and whispers. “Is executing a mother who could give birth to a soldier appropriate?”

Miwa's head turns to the husband and wife. "There are two witnesses saying that you slept with a man other than your husband. Is this true?"

The husband speaks, "Your honor may I explain?"

Drasta stares at him. Miwa says, “You have the floor.”

"Your honor. Two years ago, I had an accident at work. I lost the ability to have a child. We were just married and wanted one very badly." He gets down on his knees putting his head to the floor. "It's my fault. I gave her permission to find a... a segregate. If someone should be punished it should be me."

Miwa's eyes turn to the woman. "Mayumi of the Asai clan. You admit you slept with someone other than your husband?"

The woman looks down, “Yes, you Honor.”

The mother-in law says, "There! See she admits it! She should be boiled alive!"

. Drasta kneels next to Miwa whispering, “Instead of bowing Her husband permitted this knowing he had no balls so they could have a child.... Yes, this is not proper, but he said he had allowed it.”

Miwa turns her head while listening to Drasta and stares at the mother-in-law. "One more word from you and there will be a boiling and it won’t be your daughter-in-law."

Drasta continues, “A child is raised by a family not how the family is created.”

The woman shuts up and the lawyer steps in front of her. Drasta stands and takes a step back slightly still on guard. Before leaving she says there should be no bonds to its real father and no talk of it in any future.”

Miwa turns back to Mayumi. "How many men have you slept with other than your husband?"

She replies, “Only one. Your Honor."

The lawyer asks, "May I rebut?" Miwa nods.

The lawyer stands tall. "If Mayumi of the Asai clan can sleep with one she can most likely has slept with many. Your honor marriage contracts are sacred. Our laws are just. This is a clear-cut case with the defendant admitting guilt. I plead we end this here and now without cruelty at the edge of a sword."

Miwa looks down at her papers and picks up the case file. "I will recess to my chambers for 15 minutes of recess. Tatsuo come with me." Drasta, Tatsuo and Miwa go to her chambers. Miwa looks out the window. Drasta and Tatsuo bow to the court and follow her.

Miwa clasps her hands behind her back still staring out the window. “What is the law on this crime Tatsuo?”
He thinks. "The woman should die for breaking her marriage vows to only have a child with her husband."
She nods. “Now think about the code and tell me: What is justice?”

Drasta stands quietly hoping they consider the husband gave expressive allowance for a child. "Grandma? I don't like that she needs to die."

Drasta finally gets a hold of herself, “Miwa I apologize.”

Miwa answers him, “Well.......... The code talks about honor.......Ummm by only thinking about this she should die for the family’s honor......but......but if you take kindness with honor then I think it’s wrong. These two wanted a baby and couldn't. They did what they thought was best.” She then nods to Drasta. “Remember this is where we speak freely.”

Drasta adds, “The two thought what they thought was right to further their family.”

Miwa breaks her stoic stance and smiles slightly, “You have a kind heart Tatsuo. I struggle with this concept of the bushido code every day. Your grandfather helps. He also has a kind heart.”

Drasta pleads, “Is not furthering the human generations to come what this is about or is it not.

thinks a moment If this is wrong both should be executed since the husband told her to do so?

It was he who proposed the idea to his wife no?” Miwa nods. Drasta continues. “So, he told his wife to do something she knew was not right and against the law so they could have a child and that could be seen as an order from a husband. He did admit to telling her so is that not in the law as well?”

Miwa says, “I have made my decision. Let us proceed.” They nod and bow to her.

They go back to court and to their positions. Everyone has remained in their place. Drasta stands firm, her eyes gazing out.

Miwa kneels and takes on a passive face. “. "I have made my decision. It is the view of this court that Mayumi peasant of the Asai clan will not be put to death after her husband suggested himself that she sleep with another for the procreation of a child. However, If Mayumi sleeps with another man again even if the birth father she will be put to death by sword.

As to her husband Hinata peasant of the Asai clan. You shall report to your clan's army for two months every year for the next 5 years unpaid service for having your wife commit a highly illegal act. This is my decision. Let the record show.

Furthermore, Mayumi of the Taria clan. You are denied access to your son and daughter-in-law for the rest of your life. I find your behavior contemptable. If you further engage with them in anyway. You will be flayed alive. This is the court's decision. This case is adjourned."

Drasta smiles slightly at the flaying comment. Miwa declares, “Court will be adjourned for 15 minutes while the next case gets ready.” She goes back to the office. Tatsuo and Drasta follow. Miwa this time sits at her desk.

Drasta stands waiting and looking at the child. “I know that look.”

Miwa also looks at her grandson. “What did you learn?”

“I’m glad she didn’t have to die but I don’t understand the rest?"

Drasta says, “Perhaps someday you will. What is our next case, Bird.”

Miwa holds up her hand, “You learned of Jin, Tatsuo though you did not know it, yet. Love, magnanimity, affection for others and compassion are characteristics of blessing. It is the highest of qualities of the human spirit. It is also the highest requirement for a ruler of men. The Bushido Code invests a man with the power to command only while showing compassion and mercy. Thus, you must seek opportunities to use your power for the greater good, understanding the pain of others and desiring to help in any way that you can. She then looks at her Besshikime, “A merchant wants redress from a tanner for bad product.”

Drasta thinks for a moment. “Tanning takes time did they rush the process?”

Tatsuo holds his nose. “The tanner is an untouchable. they're stinky and always dirty."

Drasta admonishes him. “It does not mean they cannot do the job young one.”

Miwa says, "It is true Tanners are untouchables The lowest of the lows. But are they still human beings Tatsuo?" He takes some time but nods.

Drasta rambles, “The animal fats and left over meats make then so child. They do have to deal with the rotting flesh and maggots in their profession.”

Miwa nods, "So if they are human beings don’t you think if the merchant is wrong which may or may not be that tanner still deserves justice?"

Drasta is still wandering, “Regardless a leather can shrink especially if the requester has gained weight since the order has been placed. I would like to see the argument before placing any judgment whether they be untouchable or high born.”

Tatsuo again takes a long time to think. "Well, if the tanner did nothing wrong then he should Ummm be aquaked."

Drasta laughs, “Acquitted child.”

Miwa puts on a rare smile and breaks her stoic stance. Acquitted, Tatsuo."

Tatsuo smiles too, “Yes! That!”

Miwa smiles again, “I guess you need to spend more time with your grandfather to sharpen that common.”
Tatsuo looks at both of them and smiles. “Ok, grandad is fun.”

A samurai knocks and walks in. He bows. Honorifics are observed. “Honorable Mayonaka Sakuya. The mortgage case has been settled out of court. You are relieved of the case.”

Miwa bows. He recognizes her and leaves. Miwa says, “Ok, let’s meet our next case.”

Story by Winterhawk99 and Maxalpd

[Winterhawk99]

As they go into the courtroom The tanner is on the defendant’s side. He’s nearly in rags. The merchant on the plaintiff’s side is in rich clothing. Both catch Drasta’s eye. Tatsuo holds his nose while going past the tanner. Miwa watches him with a slight look of disapproval on her face. Drasta quickly walks over to him with a bottle placing it in his hand, “For the smell.” She whispers.

Miwa motions her back to her place. Drasta does so a step behind Miwa. Miwa turns her head and whispers, “Remind me to write to my daughter to call up to her it is her duty to help her son build his eightfold fence.” Drasta nods.

After proper honorifics Miwa opens a folder. “Youta merchant of Dojyu charges Katashi tanner of Dojyu of making inferior products for the coin that he paid. Plaintiff, you may proceed.”

Your honor. I bought 50 saddles from one Katashi of Dojyu. At first, I thought the quality exceptional, however the market for saddles collapsed for a period of 9 months I stored them in my warehouse at the docks. When the market came back, I found the product rotted and stained beyond repair."

Miwa asks, "what is the quality of the warehouse where you stored the product?"

"It's the same as all the other warehouses in the district your honor."

Miwa asks, "And how many men are staffed at this warehouse?"

The merchant says, "8 your honor."

"8 people for an entire warehouse?"

"You must cut corners where you can in business, your honor."

"How many storms this year have come off the coast? " She mentions the date of sale to the date the product was checked.

A samurai bows. "22 your honor by imperial count."

Miwa nods, "You must have someone in your family that monitors these things, my gratitude." She bows to him, and he recognizes her.

Miwa asks. "Do you have the product in question?"

He nods and turns back. "Please bring the saddle in."

A saddle is brought in and presented. It obviously has water damage and is spotted with mold. Miwa stands and comes down to it. She takes out her kaiken and cuts a piece from the side. She seems to play with it bending and turning it over. She then peels the skin off it. and tests that. The last thing she does is smell it. She goes back to her place and kneels. "Gratitude for bringing the merchandise."

She turns her head to the tanner. “Katashi of Dojyu, what do you have to say for yourself in this hearing."

The man is slow to respond as if he figures he will already be found guilty. "Your honor. I am a fair tanner. I do my best every day to make good products. I don't know what happened. The saddles were in perfect condition when I tanned them. Please, I cannot afford to pay this merchant his money back. It took me several months to fill the order alone. I will go into debt slavery."

Miwa asks, “Do you have a sample of your products?”

He nods and takes out his own tanto along with several tools in leather sheaths along with a leather apron. Again, Miwa stands and does the same procedure. Keying on the old tanto sheath that has been used for years. She goes back to her place and kneels back down. She again turns to the tanner. "Where do you have your operation?"

"Outside of the city. in the hills"

Drasta watches Miwa and stands idlily. Miwa says, “The court will recess for 15 minutes while I make my judgement.” Miwa, Drasta, and Tatsuo go into her office.

Miwa sits down. "The saddles were inundated with sea water. What does that tell you Tatsuo?"

He shrugs. "I don’t know Grandma." She looks at Drasta for an answer.

One is not stating the truth and one is hiding something way more than what is seen. I believe we found one of those who may work with those in cells. Perhaps it is their mule, master or contact for Amn.”

Miwa smiles. "You are both correct and incorrect. The tanner lives away from the sea. So, seawater could not be involved in the tainting of the tanner’s work. The tanner being untouchable already feels he will be declared guilty because of his social status. Thus, you get a wrong sense that he is guilty by his words." She stops for a moment.

Drasta replies, “Perhaps I misspoke and meant the receiver of the goods.”

Miwa shakes her head. “The merchant placed the saddles in a warehouse. if it leaked the water damage would be from fresh water not salt. Which means his product had to have been Sabotaged by a third party.

The merchant would not damage a good product he stands to make money from. So, it’s unreasonable he would do it himself. My guess would be a disgruntled employee or a yakuza organization that wants to squeeze or seek revenge against him in some way. This we do not know.

Now the question is, "What judgement should be cast?"

Drasta asks, “Perhaps, negligence.”

Miwa nods. “The merchant was negligent in the storage of his product. However, the question is, did the tanner make and produce an inferior product. The answer is no. He did not.”

Drasta says, “I agree… It was someone who had access to his wares and used them for their own ends. He should have a better guard.”

Tatsuo says, “Oh! This one was easy.”

Miwa nods to her grandson. “Sometimes it is. Most times it is very difficult. You must always question and meditate on the truth Tatsuo."

The three make their way out of Miwa’s chambers and to their places in the courtroom. When everyone else is ready and waiting She opens a folder and says, "I have made my decision. It is the view of this court that Katashi Tanner of Dojyu has been found innocent of all charges. He did not make an inferior product.

This court has found that the product itself, while in storage, was intentionally damaged by sea water from some unknown suspect for some unknown reason. Therefore, Katashi the Tanner is not liable for products previously sold and taken in by Youta merchant of Dojyu. It is this court’s suggestion that further investigation should take place to find the perpetrator of the crime. My condolences for the merchant Youta for his losses in product."

The tanner is elated and thanks the 8 million looking up at the heavens. The merchant is not so happy but bows to the judge. He walks out determined to find who destroyed his product.

Story by Winterhawk99 and Maxalpd