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“Before I leave, I would like to know everything that your men have discovered. Through them, you learned that I left the estate to speak with Atsushi. So, what else did you find out? Is there anyone else who has wandered off when they are not supposed to be?”

“No one more frequently than you and the actress,” the gunsō replies. “I have learned by now that Yogo Yukari does as she pleases and while I might not approve of her independent nature, she has the favour of the daimyō. If he trusts her, then so shall I.” If nothing else, Shunmyo seems like a loyal man, true to his lord. You can respect that, even if it is a trait that can be exploited. “Yesterday, after you had departed to speak with the servants and the rōnin, the Lion samurai paid a visit to the site of Matsu Kaneru's death – though that is to be expected. After dusk had fallen, Shosuro Jojuri was seen visiting the servants as well, though I cannot say for what purpose.” Interesting.

“Very well. Might I know of the routes that the guards and servants follow, and if there are any others who would know their routines?”

“Though I could learn the path that each servant walks every day if I wished, I have no desire to. The heimin are beneath me, and they are managed by one of their own.” He makes a dismissive gesture as he says this. His disdain for the lower caste is obvious. “As for my soldiers, it would take me more time than I have to spare to speak of where and when they patrol, but I can assure you, it is sufficient. Yogo Sadayoshi is the only other samurai present in this castle that I have shared that knowledge with, though anyone has been in this estate for long enough might have noticed certain patterns. By this, I mean other servants of my lord such as Yukari, and our guests of indefinite duration – Jojuri and Kakita Akirako.”

“I see. If that is all that you are able to tell me, then I must thank you for your time, Bayushi-sama.” You lower yourself before the man in a simple bow – not as much respect as he deserves, as a samurai of greater status within your clan, but it is all that he deserves after he dared to suspect you. You do not believe that Shunmyo is fond of you after you bludgeoned him into submission with your limit, but you do not want the gunsō as a friend. All you seek is his cooperation. With your farewell said, you turn to leave and allow Kinnosuke to trail past you, through the barracks. Every soldier that you pass, samurai and ashigaru alike, lower their heads and shrink out of the way. They all heard you as you reprimanded their sergeant – paper walls cannot hope to contain such a piercing voice.

“After that, I would watch your back.” Kinnosuke murmurs these words once you are out of those communal quarters and back into the shadowy, claustrophobic corridors of the castle. “While he will not challenge you again, I have no doubt that he still suspects you.”

“Let him,” is your disdainful retort to that.

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By the time that you arrive in court, it seems as though it is about ready to begin. You take your place by the side of the steward and as ever, Yogo Sadayoshi examines your attire with ruthless scrutiny. For once, he does not turn his nose up at you – he is either satisfied that you found something new to wear, or he is pleased by how revealing it happens to be. As soon as he has turned away, he stands before the court and the usual proceedings get underway.

The seneschal begins by wishing everyone in attendance a prosperous new year, as is tradition. To usher in spring and to cast aside the pall of winter, he has arranged several performances for your collective enjoyment – not just Yogo Yukari, but a vast number of local artists who have been summoned to the estate. You suppose that the rule of 'no one leaving' only applies to those who were present when Matsu Kaneru was slain. A brief recess shall be held in the middle of these festivities in order to enjoy a traditional meal and when dusk falls, the court shall relocate to the garden to behold the fireworks. Certainly, today's schedule seems far more packed than any previous day.

This all begins with Yogo Mushanokoji being called forward to give his own well-wishes to the court before he speaks of the omens that he has witnessed, not just regarding today but the entire year that lies ahead. Fortunes of particular importance are listed, as are sacred ancestors and fickle spirits, all of whom shall require offerings and prayer if a fortuitous year is to be had. As always, you are not sure if there is any truth in this or if it is just another show.

After this, the various acts begin. Some are rather impressive, while others come close to boring you. There is a kabuki play about the ascension of the eighth Hantei, which is followed by a comedic noh play that focuses on the consequences of displeasing spirits. After this, Yukari has the pleasure of performing another recital, this time concerning the Fall of the Kami – though she disappears from the hall as soon as she is done, likely to continue her own investigation. Monks from the temple of Tenjin engage in a sombre chant known as shōmyō, a troupe of taiko drummers fill the audience hall with their cacophony and a peculiar instrument that is known as the shō is presented. To tell the truth, you don't find the keening noise produced by its many reeds to be enjoyable but you applaud nonetheless when the performance ends. To do otherwise would be impolite.

You endure hours of this, along with everyone else. You search for any opportunity to leave but you cannot do so without appearing discourteous and being far too obvious. You finally get your chance when the acting seneschal stands and calls for a brief intermission, so everyone might enjoy the bounty of a new year and sate their appetites. You rise to your feet, ready to depart and focus on something more important than this festival...

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… Only to be approached by the smiling Kakita Akirako, with her guardian at her back.

“Bayushi-san! I wish you a prosperous new year, and pray that it shall be full of good fortune! I must say, am always impressed by the vast talent harboured by the people of Beiden. Truly, your clan has cultivated a wonderful city, full of incredible artists! You must feel ever so proud.” She is more bubbly and cheerful than ever. It's hard not to smile when you meet someone so friendly, the sole source of warmth in this den of vipers. It is a shame that you have to repay her kindness by stabbing her in the back, but such is the lot of a Scorpion, you suppose.

“Thank you for your kind words, Kakita-san. In turn, I pray that your year shall be full of prosperity and success.” You bow before her in an amiable fashion and she does the same for you. What else do you have to say to her?

>Focus on small talk. Talk about today's performances and other minor things. There's no need for you to ruin the mood or make her suspicious. Just keep her happy and completely oblivious of everything that you are plotting.
>Focus on the investigation. This is the first time that you have had the chance to speak with her since Kaneru died. Has she seen anything, does she has any suspicions, what does she feel about it? You need to know.
>Focus on Daidoji Tokuhei. It is about time that you learned a little more about her yōjimbō, and perhaps even got the chance to speak with him yourself. You won't be able to implicate this quiet man in anything if you know nothing about him.
>Allow her to control the conversation. She was the one who approached you after all, and you're curious to hear if she has anything of value to say. On the other hand, she could just waste your time with worthless gossip.
>End the conversation here. There's someone else you would rather speak to instead, or somewhere else where you would rather be. Your time is precious and you would rather not waste what little of it you have on Akirako.

>>4671325
>End the conversation here. There's someone else you would rather speak to instead, or somewhere else where you would rather be. Your time is precious and you would rather not waste what little of it you have on Akirako.

>>4671325
>Focus on Daidoji Tokuhei. It is about time that you learned a little more about her yōjimbō, and perhaps even got the chance to speak with him yourself. You won't be able to implicate this quiet man in anything if you know nothing about him.

>>4671325
>Focus on Daidoji Tokuhei. It is about time that you learned a little more about her yōjimbō, and perhaps even got the chance to speak with him yourself. You won't be able to implicate this quiet man in anything if you know nothing about him.

It'd be odd to be so abrupt by either leaving or transitioning topics so quickly when we were previously such good friends with her.

Can we allow her to relax her focus by either participating in small talk or what she came to talk about then switch topics to Tokuhei by doing something like asking if the crane have any unique new years traditions or what would they typically be doing or contemplating this time of year if they were back home, then after getting Akirako's answer include Tokuhei and ask him as well. This is all to seem less abrupt and to disguise that we are talking with her to get something out of her by keeping up our friendship and having a smooth transition.

>>4671325
>Focus on Daidoji Tokuhei. It is about time that you learned a little more about her yōjimbō, and perhaps even got the chance to speak with him yourself. You won't be able to implicate this quiet man in anything if you know nothing about him.

>>4671325
>>Focus on the investigation. This is the first time that you have had the chance to speak with her since Kaneru died. Has she seen anything, does she has any suspicions, what does she feel about it? You need to know.

we to know if she did do it.

>>4671325
>Focus on Daidoji Tokuhei. It is about time that you learned a little more about her yōjimbō, and perhaps even got the chance to speak with him yourself. You won't be able to implicate this quiet man in anything if you know nothing about him.

>>4671325
>Focus on Daidoji Tokuhei. It is about time that you learned a little more about her yōjimbō, and perhaps even got the chance to speak with him yourself. You won't be able to implicate this quiet man in anything if you know nothing about him.
Can we do the detect weaknesses thing as well?

>>4671325
>Allow her to control the conversation. She was the one who approached you after all, and you're curious to hear if she has anything of value to say. On the other hand, she could just waste your time with worthless gossip.

I trust she has something valuable to say. Beiden may be a small town, but a position such as her does require some smart politicking on her part.

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“I can only hope that you have enjoyed the festivities so far,” you continue. Akirako immediately responds with a nod and a bright smile.

“Certainly! All of the performers have put on such a wonderful show. Though I shall admit that I did not enjoy some of the displays as fully as I should have, that is due to my personal taste rather than any flaw in the performances.” Her smile becomes a little bashful and she lowers her voice. “For example, though I have become accustomed to the masks worn by the Scorpion Clan, I still find the ones worn in noh plays to be rather... eerie, though I could not tell you why.”

“They remind me of my sensei,” you reply. “He always wore such a mask and I could never tell what he was truly thinking, or feeling. It was rather discomforting.” Akirako grimaces at the mere thought of this, and you take this chance to change topic. “But enough about that. How do you celebrate the new year in your clan, Kakita-san?”

“Much like this, Bayushi-san. It is a day for music, plays and wonderful food. We also have a tradition of exchanging gifts, to show our appreciation for one another and to strengthen our bonds with them for the year to come.”

“Oh, you should have told me!” You make an effort to appear apologetic as soon as she tells you of this custom. “If only I knew about that tradition, then I would have gotten something for you. Forgive me for being so unaware of the ways of your clan, Kakita-san.” Upon hearing this, the Crane's mood immediately brightens and she even lets out a gentle laugh, too quiet to be discourteous.

“It would be wrong of me to force the ways of my clan onto others, though I appreciate the sentiment, perhaps more than you know. In truth, I made the mistake of giving gifts during my first new year here. I had hoped to impress the daimyō and his courtiers with my generosity, but all I managed to do was create an uncomfortable atmosphere, for they had nothing to give to me in return.” She blushes somewhat as she recalls the memory. “Since then, I have learned to adjust to the traditions of the Scorpion, rather than wield the customs of the Crane like a bludgeon. But really, your sentiment is more than enough in my eyes. Thank you, Bayushi-san.”

“Regardless of what our ways are, you should never abandon your own. What about your cousin in Seven Stings Keep, surely you perform this exchange with him? Surely your yōjimbō is deserving of a gift as well. Speaking of whom, I do not believe that you ever introduced him to me.” You turn to look towards Daidoji Tokuhei. Much like the robes that he wears, he is a rather plain and wiry man. He only seems a few years old than you and Akirako, and his dark hair is tied in a simple topknot. His eyes, which seem rather soft for a warrior, immediately turn towards the ground when you look upon him and he bows his head before you, a gesture of courtesy.

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“Nor did you ever introduce your yōjimbō to me, Bayushi-san. Though I must admit, it is a poor habit of mine. Tokuhei plays his part as my shadow so well that I often forget that he is there.” She smiles apologetically towards the man before she turns back to you. “In any case, allow me to introduce you to Daidoji Tokuhei, my loyal guardian who I trust with my life. A thoughtful man as well – for this year, he gave me a rather splendid comb that I will gladly put to use in the coming days.” Her attention then slides over towards Kinnosuke. “Might I have the honour of knowing your name, in exchange?”

“Shosuro Kinnosuke,” your colleague says as he bows before the Crane, “yoriki of Yogo Orinosuke and presently, the protector of Bayushi Kimiko. I wish you a fortuitous new year Kakita-san, and pray that it shall be full of opportunity.”

“In turn, I hope that your year shall be a prosperous one, Shosuro-san.” Akirako spares him a warm smile before she turns back towards you with a playful gleam in her eyes. “I believe that I have a suggestion. We know each other quite well by now, do we not? Yet we hardly know one another's guardians. So, if you give me the opportunity to speak with the charming Kinnosuke, you can talk with Tokuhei in exchange.” Her yōjimbō, who has been silent so far, looks towards her and blinks. You get the feeling that he isn't as amused by the idea as she is.

“Why not?” Though this is nothing more than a game to Akirako, you can certainly take advantage of this opportunity. With a smile that verges on a grin the Crane slinks away and Kinnosuke, dutifully playing his part, strides after her. You are left with the quiet Daidoji Tokuhei, who bows his head before you once more.

“It is an honour, Bayushi-san. I wish you good fortune in the year to come.” His voice is almost as soft as the other Crane's, though it is devoid of any personality. What do you have to say to him?

>Strictly business. You want to know everything that he thinks about the murder of Matsu Kaneru. How does he feel about her death? Who does he suspect the killer to be? Is there anything out of the ordinary that he has noticed?
>Time for small talk. While the two of you chat about inconsequential things, you will assess him for any sign of weakness. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Sentiment skill of 1. You will need to keep three successes.)
>Put a little effort into befriending him. You want him to think that you're on his side, that you are truly an ally of the Crane. (This will require a roll using your Water ring of 2 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep three successes.)
>Use that yukata of yours to your advantage. Make a few coy comments, allow the fabric to slip a little and worm your way into his heart. (This will require a roll using your Fire ring of 3 and your Design skill of 1. You will need to keep three successes.)

>>4671928
>Put a little effort into befriending him. You want him to think that you're on his side, that you are truly an ally of the Crane. (This will require a roll using your Water ring of 2 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep three successes.)

We don't know about him to be able to predict his reaction to the yukata "slipping" just yet.

>>4671928
>Use that yukata of yours to your advantage. Make a few coy comments, allow the fabric to slip a little and worm your way into his heart. (This will require a roll using your Fire ring of 3 and your Design skill of 1. You will need to keep three successes.)

>>4671928
>Put a little effort into befriending him. You want him to think that you're on his side, that you are truly an ally of the Crane. (This will require a roll using your Water ring of 2 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep three successes.

>>4671928
>>Put a little effort into befriending him. You want him to think that you're on his side, that you are truly an ally of the Crane. (This will require a roll using your Water ring of 2 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep three successes.)

Just for the record, Suptg /does/ update with new stuff after you make the archiving. I used to always archive my quest right when I started and it always got everything.

>>4671928
>Put a little effort into befriending him. You want him to think that you're on his side, that you are truly an ally of the Crane. (This will require a roll using your Water ring of 2 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep three successes.)

Would like to learn his weakness but his physical weakness rather than mental, so this probably ain't the time for that, we'll have to talk to him again.

Though the thought of Kimiko as a seductress is a hilarious thought to me, she always seems so serious.

>>4671928
>Use that yukata of yours to your advantage. Make a few coy comments, allow the fabric to slip a little and worm your way into his heart. (This will require a roll using your Fire ring of 3 and your Design skill of 1. You will need to keep three successes.)

>Going with:
>Put a little effort into befriending him. You want him to think that you're on his side, that you are truly an ally of the Crane. (This will require a roll using your Water ring of 2 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep three successes.)
>I will require a roll of 6d6 using your Water ring of 2 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep three successes.

>I will accept the best of the first three rolls.

Rolled 5, 6, 1, 2, 4, 2 = 20 (6d6)

>>4672380

>>4672365
>Though the thought of Kimiko as a seductress is a hilarious thought to me, she always seems so serious.
a scorpion must be ready to do whatever needs to be done

Rolled 6, 1, 1, 5, 6, 2 = 21 (6d6)

>>4672380

Rolled 4, 2, 6, 1, 1, 4 = 18 (6d6)

>>4672380

>>4671928
>Time for small talk. While the two of you chat about inconsequential things, you will assess him for any sign of weakness. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Sentiment skill of 1. You will need to keep three successes.)

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>Going with >>4672389, three successes.

“The honour is mine, I assure you. So, when did you first meet Akirako?”

“Two years ago,” he answers, “when she was first assigned to this post and when I was charged with protecting her.” That is all that Tokuhei says. While the other samurai in this estate can be rather verbose at time, he seems to be a man of few words. It would be refreshing, if it wasn't for the fact that it makes talking with him rather difficult.

“Well, you seem to have performed your duty admirably. She appears to be in perfect health and just as importantly, she seems to feel safe and secure even though she is far from home. Surely you are to thank for this, Daidoji-san?” In response to your compliments, the samurai bows his head.

“Your words are kind, Bayushi-san. However, there is little that I have had to protect my charge from.” He says nothing else on the matter. Even though it was not his intention, he raises an interesting question. If there is little in the court of Beiden that poses a threat to Kakita Akirako, why was he assigned to protect her in the first place? Surely, there is a better use for a competent yōjimbō like Tokuhei.

“That hardly matters,” you insist. “The peace of mind that you grant her is just as valuable as her physical well-being. By standing at her side, you liberate Akirako from worrying about her safety. I can tell that you are important to her, and that she would not be the same without you. So please, accept my gratitude. There is no need to be so modest.” Your words cause a ghost of a smile to manifest on the Daidoji's face, although it vanishes as quickly as it appears. Once more, he bows his head before you.

Your conversation with Tokuhei continues along this vein for a while longer. For every ten words that you have to say to him, he barely seems capable of uttering one, yet nothing that he says or does is impolite. He is a thoroughly inoffensive and mild-mannered man, who does not seem to have much to say. In fact, you consider him to be astonishingly dull, though you dare not mention this to his face. Instead, you continue to chatter with him and slowly worm your way into his good graces through flattery and courtesy. After several minutes of this, his smiles become more frequent and longer-lasting. You are getting through to him.

“Bayushi-san, I had no idea that your yōjimbō had such a sharp tongue! You must allow him to speak more frequently, he is truly a delightful conversationalist.”

Unfortunately, it seems that your time with Tokuhei has run out. Akirako has returned with a bright smile on her face, and there is even a glimmer of mirth in Kinnosuke's eyes. It seems as though he enjoyed their conversation just as much as she did – you can only hope that he didn't inadvertently reveal anything to her.

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“Yes, Kinnosuke can be... witty, at times.” A better word for it is snide. “As for your protector, I cannot deny that he is an agreeable companion. Tokuhei is polite, humble and considerate. I do not think that you could hope for a better guardian.” Though you struggle to think of what to say about such a stark man of so few words, that compliment seems to please Akirako.

“Oh, do you think so? Sometimes I fear that I take him for granted, but the truth is that I would not know what to do with myself with Tokuhei at myself.” The Daidoji smiles again upon hearing those words and you can see the beginnings of a blush on his face. In an effort to hide it, he lowers his head once more. “Unfortunately, it seems as though the next performers are arriving. We should return to our seats and enjoy the show, though I hope to speak with you both later!” With a dainty bow, Akirako turns and makes her way back to her seat with Tokuhei trailing after her.

“So,” Kinnosuke murmurs, “did you learn anything from him?”

“Nothing of value,” you reply. “I believe that I have made a good impression though. It should make him easier to manipulate in the future.”

“Provided that you remember to make use of him before the Emerald Magistrate gets here. If not, then all of that was for nothing.” Your colleague glances around the audience hall, at the other courtiers who are returning to their seats and settling down. “If you planned on looking around the castle, now is the best time for it. If the earlier performances are anything to go by, we will be stuck here for hours if we linger any longer.” Unfortunately, it looks like Yogo Yukari still hasn't returned. Should you remain and cover for her, or are you going to focus on your investigation?

>Stay. You need to keep up appearances in order to avoid drawing even more suspicion. Besides, you still have two more days left. That is plenty of time.
>Leave. Time is short and you need to find out everything that you can. Other samurai might question your absence but really, what is the worst that they can do?

>>4672636
>>Stay. You need to keep up appearances in order to avoid drawing even more suspicion. Besides, you still have two more days left. That is plenty of time.

>>4672636
>>Stay. You need to keep up appearances in order to avoid drawing even more suspicion. Besides, you still have two more days left. That is plenty of time.
>>4672636

>>4672636
>Leave. Time is short and you need to find out everything that you can. Other samurai might question your absence but really, what is the worst that they can do?

We can't afford to whittle away the hours of the day by sitting still and watching performances. Our absence will be obvious but we can explain or deflect by saying that we actually find such performances boring and we prefer to keep up our bladework by practicing in the garden or chatting with our best friend Yukari or something. And the performances will keep the other courtiers occupied so that while our absence will be obvious, at least they won't be unoccupied or have a need to seek us out to chat since as I understand it everyone just sits quietly and watches without talking to each other.

Remember depending on what we discover in our investigation or how many extra details we want we may have to leave 2-5 more times to investigate. We need to talk to the lion servant, we may want to talk to the head servant to learn the precise routines of the servants, we need to look in Tokuhei's room to gather information to set him up, we may need to look into the murder room ourselves to examine the poison and the fabric and to catch any details Yukari may have missed, we may want to revisit Tokuhei's room to plant evidence, and if we discover other probable suspects we may need to visit another Samurai's quarters for example some other characters have cast Jojuri in a suspicuous light.

I also kind of regret just befriending Tokuhei, he's gonna die anyways and the rolls were already pretty easy with out stats. We could've learned his weakness and still been introduced so if we chatted with him again the ice would've already been broken and if we needed to learn something else we could've gone more in depth regardless having already talked before. It isn't a big deal, but every little bit of time spent matters and we need to seek advantage, not friendship with dead men walking.

>>4672636
>Leave. Time is short and you need to find out everything that you can. Other samurai might question your absence but really, what is the worst that they can do?

I just realised we actually already have everything we need to frame Tokuhei, we don't need the heresy plan or anything. We can go into Akirako's room, find a piece of Tokuhei's clothing that has black fabric, rip it or cut it, go to the killers room whether that be Kitahachi or Jojuri, steal their sedative, go to the murder room replace the fabric scrap on the window with Tokuhei's fabric scrap, place the sedative in Akirako's room just before the Magistrate begins investigating, then boom, framed. The Emerald Magistrate will find the fabric, the cups with sedative, look through peoples rooms, find the sedative in Akirako's room and the ripped fabric from Tokuhei's clothing and that is all the evidence we need, combined with our testimony and he's finished. By taking the scrap from the window and replacing it we also have a piece of evidence to identify if it was Jojuri or Kitahachi when we investigate their rooms and their clothes.

>>4672636
>Stay. You need to keep up appearances in order to avoid drawing even more suspicion. Besides, you still have two more days left. That is plenty of time.

We need to gather information to implicate the crane.

>>4672940
We can do that when we don't have to wait entire hours at a time between periods when we get to chat, we'll be able to get more talking done during a day when we aren't all politely observing the festivities whereas today everyone is stuck watching entertainment between brief bouts of eating and chatting, we'll essentially end up wasting our day doing the equivalent of watching TV all day while taking breaks to chat and snack. We should investigate, we can find info to implicate the crane by looking through their rooms, we had that option last time we left to investigate. Or we could just do the plan I just laid out above.

>>4672636
>Leave. Time is short and you need to find out everything that you can. Other samurai might question your absence but really, what is the worst that they can do?

>>4672636
>Leave. Time is short and you need to find out everything that you can. Other samurai might question your absence but really, what is the worst that they can do?

Also supporting>>4672930

>>4672636
>Leave. Time is short and you need to find out everything that you can. Other samurai might question your absence but really, what is the worst that they can do?
>>4672805
Yeah, anons fucked up choosing to befriend Tokuhei. It's just not useful.
>>4672930
This plan sounds good.

>>4672636
>Stay. You need to keep up appearances in order to avoid drawing even more suspicion. Besides, you still have two more days left. That is plenty of time.

We shouldn't be too obvious in our investigations/schemes, as I'm sure the old Lion would happily pounce on our absence for political points, double if he's the actual murder.

We can use our freindship with Tokuhei to our advantage still, and he seems to have a crush with his charge. The combination of both may make him to do something foolish or suspicious in front of the entire court, if we leverage both correctly. Maybe we can plant the idea that the Lions were responsible for the murder, and that his charge may be in danger? Maybe sic our Lion on him, get some of that bad blood flowing? We'll need to think some more about it.

>>4672805
>>4672930
The Lion's servants have been delegated to the younger Lion to investigate, and Atsushi may just give us the sedative if a supply of it was hidden in the sake house.

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“Then let us not linger,” you reply. Matsu Kitahachi can think whatever he likes. Besides, you suspect that he is not such a fool that he would cause a fuss today, of all days.

With Kinnosuke at your side, you make your way out of the audience chamber while everyone else is settling into their seats. With everyone else occupied by the show and unable to depart without losing face, you are free to wander about the estate at your leisure without having to worry about being disturbed. As much as you enjoy the nuances of court, this is what you have become more accustomed to – sleuthing in the shadows and uncovering the truth.

The question is, where should you start?

>The guest quarters that were assigned to Matsu Kaneru and her yōjimbō. Though Yogo Yukari has already inspected the room, you want to have a look around it for yourself.
>The quarters that are assigned to Kakita Akirako and her yōjimbō. You have been ordered to frame a samurai of the Crane Clan. You need to find something that can help with that.
>The private chambers of any other samurai you can think of who is housed in the estate. If you choose this option, name the samurai whose room you want to inspect.
>The structure that houses the estate's heimin. You suspect that there is useful information to be learned the servants. In addition, this is where the Lion's heimin are staying.
>Any other location that you can think of, as long as it can be found within the walls of the compound. If you choose this option, name the location you want to visit.

>>4673637
>The quarters that are assigned to Kakita Akirako and her yōjimbō. You have been ordered to frame a samurai of the Crane Clan. You need to find something that can help with that.

>>4673637
>The quarters that are assigned to Kakita Akirako and her yōjimbō. You have been ordered to frame a samurai of the Crane Clan. You need to find something that can help with that.

>>4673637
>The structure that houses the estate's heimin. You suspect that there is useful information to be learned the servants. In addition, this is where the Lion's heimin are staying.

>>4673637
>The quarters that are assigned to Kakita Akirako and her yōjimbō. You have been ordered to frame a samurai of the Crane Clan. You need to find something that can help with that.

>>4673637
>The quarters that are assigned to Kakita Akirako and her yōjimbō. You have been ordered to frame a samurai of the Crane Clan. You need to find something that can help with that.

>>4673468
To be fair, I was one of those anons despite previously advocating for learning his weakness. I assumed that the vote I really wanted had no chance of winning, so I voted to befriend him to 'speed things along'.

>>4673610
I know, I'm just worried about the time. We have no idea about our potential freedom of action in the coming days, events may occur like another murder or the Magistrate arriving early or Yukari could stubbornly insist on not spending time in court to cover for us because she believes our investigation has no merit but hers does, etc, etc. Today gives us a large block of time to investgate rooms uninterrupted by the samurai as they are occupied with the festivities, whereas if we stayed we are stuck watching without the chance to talk often.

While understand in vague intuitive way about what you mean by 'political points' you'll probably need to be more specific. If the scenario was that we were still concerned with a trade deal or that there were multiple lion higher ups and other clan delegates present or if we were in another court I could see us losing face or other such generic social slights having a real tangible harm to both our cause and ourselves personally. However consider the scenario, we are surrounded by either friends, temporary allies, or our superiors and co-workers in our own court with no hot-button political issue or tangible policy issue being discussed by the court. Kitahachi imho cannot do anything other than cast suspicion on us as the assassin or try and murder us. He cannot damage our Glory stat, imo, he has no current issue in court to dispute or scheme of ours to foil by inflicting social ails or loss of face on. If you are more familiar with L5R's court shenanigans or have a counter-point then by all means call me out and correct me, I'd love to learn more. As it stands I think we are safe, I don't think losing 'political points' means much in the current context, we are technically Sadayoshi's aide and supposed to control court, but there's not much for us to control or do now.

Your ideas about Tokuhei are interesting though, we'll see if a opportunity pops up.

I forgot about the delegation to Shoraku, though I doubt his way with words is as good as ours.

The potential problem with the sedative is who had it. Did Kitahachi bring it with him, or was it put on the cups by the sake house. If the former, we need to get into his room, if the latter then what you say may be true.

>>4673637
>The quarters that are assigned to Kakita Akirako and her yōjimbō. You have been ordered to frame a samurai of the Crane Clan. You need to find something that can help with that.

>>4674833
I'll support this, though we should inspect other places as well.

When I said political points I meant it as a zero sum game, with us losing out on some, but I have since realized the error of my ways. In fact, I have a scheme in mind, one so bold as to put the Matsu to shame. If Kitahachi was the one who truely murdered his lord, we might be able to leverage that to our advantage, by not only playing into our Crane scandal, but potentially netting us a favorable trade deal before they leave to head home.

Now, this will involve inhibiting Kitahachi with his Unconventional nature, but I'm sure with the festivities going on that he'll be decently indisposed of, and when we allude to the fact that we're aware of his crimes, it'll be after he suffers though our tea ceremony (assuming he sees it as archaic tradition of course). Now, wether or not he's false flagging us for the Lions or a differing conspiracy is irrelevant, because I assume either way he'll value secrecy in this matter, to both avoid ruining the Lion's reputation and losing his head over this matter, as the Magistrate has yet to investigate and this will put a lot of suspicion if this come to light. And that is where we'll force to focus suspicion on the Crane and have him to concede a favorable trade deal to the Scorpion clan publicly.

Then, before they leave we hand Shoraku a letter alluding to the fact that only two sake cups were poisoned, and have him on his honor read it after Kitahachi informs the Lion of our trade deal, which will force Shoraku to kill him before he commits seppuku, and leave the Lion forced to commit to the trade deal to avoid losing face, and punish the one who would abuse the Scorpion's hospitality and reputation to further their own schemes.

So I ask you lads, is my plan bold, or just plain mad?

File: Crane 1.jpg (100 KB, 800x584)

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The quarters shared by Kakita Akirako and Daidoji Tokuhei are your first destination. You have a servant lead you through the castle's hallways and to the room that houses the Crane. Though it is on the same floor as the site of Matsu Kaneru's murder, the seneschal was wise enough to house the Lion on the opposite side of the castle to the Crane. You have no doubt that this was done to limit the likelihood of the rival clans encountering each other.

Upon arriving, you notice that the door is open – yet there is no one inside other than a servant, performing their usual duties of cleaning the quarters of samurai while they are absent. There is nothing nefarious about this. Nevertheless, you call for the servant to stand by while you and your colleague inspect the room. Once you are done, they shall clean up after you and remove any trace that you were ever there at all.

As for the room itself, it seems that Kakita Akirako has made herself quite at home over the past two years. A vast collection of hanging scrolls decorate the walls, some of which carry paintings of the land and of beasts, while others bear finely written wisdom. Her desk is cluttered with all manner of items, which the servant seems content to not disturb, and her closet is bursting with a vast collection of outfits that puts your own to shame. There are even a few vases here and there, in which carefully arranged flowers can be found – though at this time of year, they are obviously preserved rather than fresh. In comparison, Daidoji Tokuhei's side of the room is plain in comparison. Only a few scrolls decorate the wall, all of which carry text that signifies the importance of honour and duty. His wardrobe is rather limited as well, carrying only a handful of robes in varying shades of white, blue, grey and silver. The living space is also as dull as the man himself.

Well, it is time for you to see if you can find anything that you can put to use. While you search one part of the room, Shosuro Kinnosuke pokes through another. There has to be something in here that you can use to frame the Crane, or find out more about them at the very least.

>I will not list options or prompts, since I know that you will want to investigate as much as possible. Instead, the next several updates will mostly be dice rolls and any information that you gain from them. I will try to update much more frequently, to make up for that.

>I require a roll of 6d6 using your Water ring of 2 and your Skulduggery skill of 2. You will need to keep two successes.

>I will accept the best of the first three rolls.

Rolled 6, 6, 2, 1, 6, 5 = 26 (6d6)

>>4675445

Rolled 5, 1, 3, 1, 1, 5 = 16 (6d6)

>>4675445

Rolled 2, 4, 2, 2, 4, 6 = 20 (6d6)

>>4675445

>>4675503
Nice rolling.

File: Sandalwood Incense.png (137 KB, 384x229)

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>Going with >>4675503, four successes.

It's incredible how many secrets you can dredge up with a little time and a little effort. Of course, you find all of the little things that hide in plain sight – the calligraphy set and accompanying perfumes that litter Akirako's table, the meanings that might be hidden behind the scrolls and the ikebana, and so on. Yet you also find so many little details, such as a rather unused-looking mask buried among the Kakita's accessories, a kimono of black and red hidden behind all of her other clothes and a pillow book, carefully concealed under the floorboards where Tokuhei's futon lies. Honestly, you didn't expect quite so many surprises.

You decide to start with the most obvious clues – namely, the writing set that is laid out across the table. There is a neat pile of letters that she must have recently received next to the brushes, inkstones and sand, yet the most peculiar aspect is the collection of various scents that is laid across the table. Upon opening a pot, you are immediately hit by the pungency of the powdered wood contained within.

Of course you're going to have a look at all of the letters – but you can't help but wonder, what is the purpose of the incense? Why doesn't Akirako keep these fragrances locked away with the rest of her accessories, where they belong? As these questions run through your head, you try to come up with a theory, some sort of explanation for the Crane's behaviour. That's why you're here, after all – to find out more about the courtier and her guardian.

>I require a roll of 5d6 using your Fire ring of 3 and your Culture skill of 1. You will need to keep three successes.

>I will accept the best of the first three rolls.

Rolled 5, 6, 3, 4, 6 = 24 (5d6)

>>4675561

Rolled 1, 4, 6, 1, 5 = 17 (5d6)

>>4675561

Rolled 5, 1, 3, 5, 3 = 17 (5d6)

>>4675561

>>4675426
Very ambitious. Perhaps a little crazy, maybe a little beyond the scope of this scenario.

I'll mention some thoughts of mine. Firstly I believe that Kitahachi does not actually possess the authority to negotiate a trade deal on the Matsu's behalf.

>Though any diplomacy between the Lion and Scorpion cannot continue with the demise of Matsu Kaneru, we shall remain in Beiden until the Emerald Magistrate has administered justice.

This quote is from the post from when we suggested Mushanokoji could ward the room where Kaneru died. The speaker is Kitahachi himself. Remember he is a mere aide to Kaneru.

If I understand your plan correctly, you intend to approach Kitahachi, insist on holding a tea ceremony with him in private to cause him strife, tell him we know he is the killer, blackmail him into giving us a favourable trade deal by saying we'll blame the crane instead if he does, give a letter to Shoraku to be opened only after Kitahachi gets us our trade deal, Shoraku kills Kitahachi and then himself, the lion keeps the trade deal with us.

I see a few problems with this. One, the whole reason Sadayoshi wanted to delay until the daimyo got back was that he died not possess the necessary commerce skill and knowledge of broader Scorpion affairs to complete a good deal. Notably we lack commerce skill as well. The lack of commerce knowledge is obviously bad but the lack of broader clan affairs knowledge may be worse, what if we conclude a deal that seems good from a trade volume perspective but in fact those trade goods or supplies are needed elsewhere due to an even more important scorpion scheme? Then we may fail to hold up our end of the deal because they were needed for more important things. Second, as Kaneru's aide Kitahachi probably DOES have commerce skill, meaning he could in a hilarious turn of events get a good deal for the lion that we think is good for us due to Kimiko's and Sadayoshi's lack of commerce knowledge. Third, I think trade deals don't necessarily work the way you think they do, I think even Kaneru is technically just an envoy, she works something out that our daimyo thinks is agreeable and to the best of her knowledge is a good deal, but she still has to go back and confirm it and probably go back and worth a few times. Kitahachi can just go back and not hold up the deal for numerous reasons which I'll list, his daimyo can simply refuse, we will be obligated to return Kaneru's body (evidence) and we'll have officially blamed Tokuhei by then meaning we cannot "officially" blame the Kitahachi after saying it is Tokuhei and then letting Kitahachi go, meaning we'll have "spent" our blackmail and he'll be free.

Another thing is we'll have to give Shoraku more evidence for him to believe us, some of which may be compromising. We need to reveal the cups, the fabric and that we looked at people's clothing to confirm it was him, and that we had a spy watching the lion servant leave the scorpion castle, etc, etc.

>>4675426
Shoraku could simply believe we are lying or Kitahachi could convince him to disbelieve us once they are safely back in their own lands, free from our advocacy.

I had some other thoughts but I think I forgot them in my haste to type all of us out.

I like the ambition of the plan, it takes a lot of skill and vision to weave a plan multiple steps into the future with many aspects to it to achieve our old goal of getting a good trade deal out this fiasco. I just think this plan has several "logistical" flaws and I'm not sure we have the power to do it, nor am I certain that the requisite conditions are met. For it to work, assuming I understood your plan correctly, a lot of the flaws or issues I mentioned in my previous post would have to...not exist

Still, cool plan anon, just not sure it'll work.

File: Game of Letters.png (724 KB, 808x479)

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>Going with >>4675573, four successes.

The Crane transform everything into an art form. This is their greatest gift to Rokugan, and one of their greatest weapons in court. They can make anything sophisticated and complex, from drinking tea to writing words. Incense is no different – the clan of Doji is responsible for creating Kōdō, the Way of Fragrance. There is a correct scent for everything and only one true way of using incense, its adherents would have you believe. Supposedly, these pungent odours can even carry hidden meaning. That's where your theory comes in.

What if Akirako uses these scents to convey a hidden meaning in her letters? If the paper is daubed with a certain fragrance, someone else who is trained in Kōdō might be able to interpret the true message of the missive.

You're hardly an expert when it comes to the Way of Fragrance. You hardly know anything about it, in fact. Yet as you sample each pot, you can easily understand how someone could put together a message this way. Bitter loss, sweet success, sour vitriol and the heat of conflict – by blending these powdered woods, the Crane must be able to send simple messages to one another, without any fear of them being read by nosy samurai like you.

You decide to test this theory as you read the various letters she has received, most of which seem to come from her cousin in Seven Stings Keep. Almost none of them contain anything of value, just wishes of good health, along with insipid chatter about gossip that they have heard and their respective hobbies. Nothing meaningful or incriminating. The latest letter arrived just under a week ago, judging from how Kakita Yoshikazu describes the progress of winter. Apparently he sent her a fan as a gift for the new year – no doubt the one that she has been fluttering in front of her face for the past few days. Yet as you lean closer, you can almost taste the hot, bitter scent that the paper is laced with.

Intriguing.

Next, there are the various decorations around the room. There is nothing unusual about the wall scrolls, though they look as though they were recently changed. The various paintings and poems all seem to celebrate the arrival of spring, the end of suffering and the time for rebirth and renewal. You're far more interested in the ikebana, in the carefully arranged flowers that perch in their vases. Perhaps they could tell you somehow about Akirako's state of mind, considering how important this hobby is to her?

>I require a roll of 3d6 using your Air ring of 3 and your Aesthetics skill of 0. You will need to keep three successes.

>I will accept the best of the first three rolls.

Rolled 1, 6, 3 = 10 (3d6)

>>4675629
Yikes.

Rolled 4, 2, 5 = 11 (3d6)

>>4675629
Read that mind

Rolled 1, 1, 5 = 7 (3d6)

>>4675629
Holy shit.

File: Kachiko and Hotaru.jpg (201 KB, 900x1200)

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>Going with >>4675640, two successes.

No matter how much you stare at the flowers, no matter how much you try to interpret some obscure meaning that might be behind these dry and preserved flowers, they remain... flowers. What sort of madman came up with the concept of ikebana in the first place? You turn away from the flowers – if there is any meaning to be found in them, you no longer care enough to try and find it out. Flower arrangement is stupid anyway.

>You suffer a point of strife. Your strife is currently at 3 / 8.

You move on.

You decide to assess the mask and the black kimono together, since they both pose the same question – what is a samurai of the Crane doing with garments that are more suited to a Scorpion? The obvious answer to that is that Akirako might don the mask and wear the robe if she wanted to pose as one of your clan but then that raises a second question – why? What does she have to gain from pretending to be a samurai of another clan? Rather than dwell on the question, you try to examine both items more closely, to see if there is anything else that you can learn about them.

>I require a roll of 5d6 using your Air ring of 3 and your Design skill of 1. You will need to keep three successes.

>I will accept the best of the first three rolls.

Rolled 1, 4, 6, 4, 1 = 16 (5d6)

>>4675724

Rolled 5, 4, 5, 5, 4 = 23 (5d6)

>>4675724

Rolled 6, 2, 3, 4, 4 = 19 (5d6)

>>4675724

Rolled 6, 1, 1, 2, 1 = 11 (5d6)

>>4675724
Looks like our friend is up to some stuff.
What if she killed thr lion?

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>Going with >>4675726, three successes.

There are a few little details that you notice.

First of all, the mask. It is a domino mask like your own, constructed to be reminiscent of a bird's beak, albeit in an elegant way. As for the material, it appears to be made out a fine silver filigree that recognise – it is very similar to the one that Shosuro Jojuri wears. Perhaps it even comes from the same artisan, judging from the style. Though you are aware that the two women know each other and seem to be friends, you know little more than that. Did Jojuri give this mask to Akirako as a gift, or did the Crane see a reason to purchase a copy of her mask, for some bizarre reason? You are not sure which is more likely.

As for the robe, it is rather plain and inexpensive, not even made out of silk. You would not even say that it is particularly fit for court but you suppose that a glance, a samurai could get away with wearing such a simple garment. A rather important feature of it is that it doesn't seem to carry a mon, or any other symbol that gives away the wearer's family or allegiance. It is nothing more than a plain kimono of your clan's colours. Unfortunately, none of this does anything to answer the question of what it's doing among Akirako's clothes.

Wearing both the mask and the robe, you suppose at Akirako play the part of a samurai of the Scorpion Clan, provided that she washed the white dye out of her hair first. As for why she would do that, you cannot do anything but guess.

Finally, you leave Akirako's side of the room and venture towards Tokuhei's, where there is nothing of note except for that well-hidden pillow book, hidden beneath the floorboards. You suspect that not even his charge knew that he kept this little diary of his. You flick through the pages of the book, reading the various passages. Most of it appears to be in the form of poetry – just like Akirako, it seems like he hides the truth in art. You have never been much of an expert when it comes to literature, but you can at least try to decipher this amateur text.

>I require a roll of 3d6 using your Air ring of 3 and your Composition skill of 0. You will need to keep three successes.

>I will accept the best of the first three rolls.

Rolled 6, 4, 4 = 14 (3d6)

>>4675776

>>4675779
>Since that's the highest you can get on this one, I'm happy to just accept that roll. Other people can still roll though!

Rolled 2, 3, 4 = 9 (3d6)

>>4675776

Rolled 5, 2, 2 = 9 (3d6)

>>4675776

File: Kakita Duelist.png (883 KB, 1000x842)

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>Going with >>4675779, three successes.

As far as you can tell, most of his poems appear to have a rather sombre mood. They either lament some sort of loss, or mourn for that which is not meant to be and while he seems to favour seasonal metaphors, he occasionally refers to birds and small mammals as well. Even though you are not particularly experienced when it comes to literature, you can tell that he isn't a talented poet and if you had to take a guess, most of these poems are about unrequited love.

You suppose that you are not surprised. How could a man not become attached, after spending every day of the past few years with a woman like Akirako?

However, the most recent pages seem to deviate from his usual topic. They focus on themes of anxiety and tension, often referring to battlefields and warfare rather than his typical metaphors. The latest is a particularly troubling specimen:

A warrior falls,
though his foe has not drawn steel.
Brave brothers in arms,
they see all that they have lost
and think of naught but vengeance.

The ink seems rather fresh – this particular poem couldn't be more than a day or two old. You have no doubt that it refers to the death of Matsu Kaneru, and yet there are multiple ways it could be interpreted. Does he suspect that the Crane are going to be accused and is he lamenting that, or is he celebrating the likelihood of the Scorpion being blamed for Kaneru's death? That is for the reader to decide.

Unfortunately, it seems as though bringing Kinnosuke along for this was pointless. When you confer with your yōjimbō, he has nothing new to offer you. It seems as though he either came to the same conclusions as you, or he didn't come to any conclusion at all. He didn't even notice the similarities between Jojuri's mask and the one that you just found among Akirako's accessories. In the end, you have inspected everything of note that you have found and there is little left for you to discover here.

Are you ready to move on?

>Yes. The sooner that you leave, the more time that you have to investigate elsewhere.
>Yes, but not empty-handed. If you choose this option, please say what you would like to take from Kakita Akirako's room.
>Not yet, there's still something else you'd like to look. If you choose this option, please say what particular aspect of the room you want to examine.
>Not yet, you'd like to plant something in this room that could be used to implicate the Crane in the assassination. If you choose this option, please say what you would like to plant.

>>4675882
>Yes, but not empty-handed. If you choose this option, please say what you would like to take from Kakita Akirako's room.

A scrap of fabric from a identifiable article of clothing of Tokuhei's.

>>4675882
>Yes, but not empty-handed. If you choose this option, please say what you would like to take from Kakita Akirako's room.
A scrap of fabric from one of Tokuhei's kimonos

>>4675882
Also, real quick, can we rub our thumb along the fabric of Akirako's scorpion robe as well as a few articles of clothing from both people that have black fabric, get a feel for the material, texture, weave, thread count, etc. I just want Kimiko to have a mental feeling for the nature of the various clothes she encounters in case we go into Kaneru's murder room and feel the scrap of fabric that was left by the window.

>>4675882
>>Not yet, there's still something else you'd like to look. If you choose this option, please say what particular aspect of the room you want to examine.


>The pillow book of Tokuhei's loom for theming.

>>4675595
>Kitahachi probably DOES have commerce skill

A Lion samurai, learning a skill of heinin? Oh, the deviousness of the Lion knows no bounds!

You might be right on him not poccessing the authority, though I interpreted the diplomacy stonewall as "we cannot continue diplomacy because you Scorpion probably murdered Kaneru". I also suspect that sending envoys back and forth would be wasteful, and that normally it would be done during a Winter Court, where there would be no chance of travel to ensure the daimyo can look over the deal to be satisfied with it. Other than that, it was probably Kaneru that had the authority to sanction a deal, I agree.

Kitahachi's motive is still in question, but either way it wouldn't look good for him, as murdering your superior is quite a scandal, doubly so if he was part of a cult or on part of orders from the honorable Lion clan. Considering the loss of face involved, there may be a decent chance that they just might tale the deal to keep us quiet about the whole affair, as testimony is better than evidence, and given the Imperial blood that runs though our veins, it would cause quite a stir if it ever came to light. Even if we do implicate the Crane, it doesn't eliminate the fact that we know and would be willing to reveal it.

I don't think Shoraku would be hard to convince, seeing that the cups would line up with the fact that both him and his Lady fell asleep earlier than expected, assuming his investigation turns up nothing. Kitahachi convincing him would be a different story, though given that Shoraku offered to help us despite the old lion's warning would indicate that there may be a disagreement within their delegation. Keep in mind, Shoraku is looking for vengeance before seppuku, and the question of Kitahachi's involvement would plague him until it was resolved, one way or another.

I will say, the plan is very risky, dangerous, and may blow up in our face. It mostly comes out of a desire to use what we have learned of other's weaknesses, rather than have our knowledge go to waste, and the desire to excel in our duty. I understand if others feel that it's too high a risk for an improbable reward.

>>4675894
>>4675899
>>4675901
I'm down for all of these, though we should inspect Akirako's Scorpion robe to try and see if it has any rips in them.

>>4675974
Another thought comes to mind. Was it Kitahachi's idea to force the Scorpion to accept the Lion coming instead of rescheduling, or one of the higher ups? I mention this as it seems like Kaneru wanted to meet and make a deal with our daimyo, and if that's the case why commit to visiting his domain while he's away?

>>4675882
>Yes. The sooner that you leave, the more time that you have to investigate elsewhere.

>>4675901
I will also say, the pillow book's theme is of unrequited love, with a dash of anxiety and tension of impending war.

>>4675899
I feel compelled to ask anons, what do you think of Akirako's Scorpion robe? Why does she have one? And how can we best use it to our advantage?

>>4675974
>>4675989
All fair points. Though, some samurai will have to lower themselves by learning such low skills such as commerce lest they allow mere heimin to work as hikan, bugyō, kami forbid; hatamoto. I'm sure our own daimyo has such samurai under his employ, hell, I was gonna suggest we pick up a point in commerce (scandalous, I know) once we complete this session.

I think just doing well in the tasks we've more recently been given is enough, getting a great trade deal out of all this was a long shot even before the murder.

I assumed from Kaneru's annoyance that it was Kitahachi's doing that their scheduling screwed up.

I also support briefly inspecting Akirako's scorpion robe for rips in it, but let us not tarry too long here, we have more to do.

>>4676201
Honestly? I initially just thought that it was her equivalent of our Lion-coloured tomosode, though it not being suited for court is odd, as is the mask made to look like Jojuri's, as is it being hidden behind all her other clothes as is its lack of crane mon.

Perhaps she is more experienced or versatile than she lets on and she keeps it around to use when sneaking by hoping to be mistaken for Jojuri at a distance, or perhaps for some reason she wants to be seen as just another Scorpion instead of a crane when she goes out into town.

Perhaps the mask was a gift from Jojuri and the shitty robe a deliberate insult by some gift giver.

If the robe is cotton, then perhaps Akirako actually just likes cotton clothes better than silk? After all, in Europe during the medieval days cotton was look upon with amazement for its softness and sometimes the price of cotton was higher than silk.

Or perhaps this robe is actually not hers at all but a planted object by our killer to throw suspicion off them and onto Akirako. This is a bit far-fetched to me, but I'm just spitballing and throwing paint on the wall to see what sticks and to stir discussion at this point.

>>4676201
As for how to best utilize this knowledge? For me this is obvious, though it is also a rushed answer. To me, we simply cannot use this knowledge for anything other than contextualizing certain actions by Akirako. We cannot reveal we know she has it, or that we've been snooping in her room, sniffing her letters. (literally, lol) If we can find a way to get her to reveal that she got it from Jojuri or Jojuri or someone else reveals they gifted it to her, then we can use that knowledge after it has been "revealed" to us.

Alternatively, we could hypothetically use it in some sort of play by us, such as in blackmail or planting scraps of fabric of it or something. I don't know why we would do this though, we don't want to implicate Akirako.

However, I'll give a hypothetical use for it just to stir the imagination. We could rip it, talk to Tokuhei, say we think his personal charge is the killer and that we have evidence and that our testimony would damn her in the eyes of everyone, but that we don't want to hurt her because we are just so moved by our friendship that we can't bear to do it, but we need someone as we've been charged to find the killer, tell him about her ribbed robe and how it matches the fabric scrap in the murder room, (planted by us) tell him that he has to take the fall instead of his young charge, that he can save his love, (we've seen the way he looks at her) that he has to confess in front of everyone so that there is no doubt it is anyone but him. Boom, framed, that one anon who wanted to save our friendship with Akirako gets what he and a lot of us want as she will believe that he killed Kaneru and we had nothing to do with his indictment. Of course, this plan is greatly flawed, as to be expected as it is a hypothetical rushed plan meant to stir discussion rather than a good plan. We have no guarantee Tokuhei would believe us or that he wouldn't talk to Akirako either under the assumption that we are lying or under the assumption that Akirako is the killer, both fuck up this plan, one among many flaws, I'm sure.

Anyways, I've gotta go sleep. I'm leaving our decisions in your hands anons, don't fuck up.

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You're not leaving here empty-handed. Before you depart, you return to Tokuhei's wardrobe where you browse the samurai's clothes. Eventually, you find one particular robe which is a dark shade of grey. Not necessarily black, but it is the closest that you will get. You carefully tear a strip of fabric from the kimono, though you make sure that the damage isn't immediately visible. Once that is done, you commit everything else to memory – the poems, the fragrances, the design of the mask and the material of that Scorpion robe. One last time, you ensure that everything is where it is meant to be before you leave and allow the servant to return to their duty, to clean up after you.

“I never thought that a Crane could have so many secrets,” Kinnosuke mutters, “especially in one of our own castles. Can you imagine Akirako running around in red and black, mask and all? If I did not know better, I would suggest that she might be a shinobi – but her clan are too honourable for such things.”

“Nothing is outside of the realm of possibility,” you reply. “Consider Kitahachi. Does that man act like a samurai of the Lion Clan should, Shosuro-san?”

“No, I suppose not. Though I would advise against saying that the sweet and gentle Kakita Akirako is actually a ninja when you frame the Crane for this.” Your colleague scoffs. “Sometimes, all that matters is how believable your words are. The truth is secondary. Perhaps I should write that wisdom down in a pillow book of my own, hm?”

Rather than dignify the man with a response, you simply roll your eyes. You have more important things to think about, in any case. You can see about returning to the audience hall and pretending that you never left, or you can continue with your search for the truth. You should have enough time for one more inspection as thorough as the last, before you need to worry about the performances coming a close.

So, where shall you go?

>Back to the audience chamber. You have been gone for too long, and you should make your way back before you become too suspicious. It's the most prudent course of action.
>The guest quarters that were assigned to Matsu Kaneru and her yōjimbō. Though Yogo Yukari has already inspected the room, you want to have a look around it for yourself.
>The private chambers of any other samurai you can think of who is housed in the estate. If you choose this option, name the samurai whose room you want to inspect.
>The structure that houses the estate's heimin. You suspect that there is useful information to be learned the servants. In addition, this is where the Lion's heimin are staying.
>Any other location that you can think of, as long as it can be found within the walls of the compound. If you choose this option, name the location you want to visit.

>>4676276
>Back to the audience chamber. You have been gone for too long, and you should make your way back before you become too suspicious. It's the most prudent course of action.

I'm tempted to search Kitahachi's room or to try to speak to the lion servant if that will take less time, but if the performances are coming to a close then we should return.

>Though I would advise against saying that the sweet and gentle Kakita Akirako is actually a ninja when you frame the Crane for this.” Your colleague scoffs. “Sometimes, all that matters is how believable your words are. The truth is secondary. Perhaps I should write that wisdom down in a pillow book of my own, hm?”

kek, the QM shooting down my hypothetical through the cutting words of Kinnosuke mere seconds after I finish typing it.

Also, "sweet and gentle Kakita Akirako"? Bro, Kinnosuke, you crushin' on Akirako? She's already got enough of that with Tokuhei. Not to mention anons clamouring to save one of our few decent friendships with another samurai, let alone another human being.

It'd be funny if this was another test for us and Akirako was actually a scorpion.

>>4676276
>The structure that houses the estate's heimin. You suspect that there is useful information to be learned the servants. In addition, this is where the Lion's heimin are staying.

>>4676276
>Back to the audience chamber. You have been gone for too long, and you should make your way back before you become too suspicious. It's the most prudent course of action.

>>4676276
>Back to the audience chamber. You have been gone for too long, and you should make your way back before you become too suspicious. It's the most prudent course of action.

>>4676276
>Back to the audience chamber. You have been gone for too long, and you should make your way back before you become too suspicious. It's the most prudent course of action.

A few thoughts from me after rereading some of the posts from the old threads. I noticed that the conversations between Akirako, Jojuri and Kimiko come off as different as do our conversations between just Kimiko and Jojuri when you take into account that Kimiko notes that:

>Though you are aware that the two women know each other and seem to be friends, you know little more than that.

It seems odd that Jojuri would believe us when we said Akirako could be "as stubborn as an ox" and that she was surprisingly cold if they were friends. It also seems odd that Akirako would rebuke Jojuri so harshly for trying to fuck up our friendship if they were also friends. Then again, perhaps they are friendly enough that they both know that their friendship can survive such open rebukes. Perhaps Akirako is simply professional enough to know that retaining her friendship with us was important enough to warrant openly rebuking Jojuri, especially since Jojuri was accusing us of lying. Likewise, perhaps Jojuri finds it entirely believable that Akirako is stubborn and cold sometimes, she does after all, know her better and for longer even if they are friends.

Anyways, what I really wanted to say was I noticed a couple of things that may be very minor evidence to point towards the theory that Jojuri is the killer or works for Tadataka. Jojuri says '“Did you not hear what Sadayoshi said about me, Bayushi-san? I seek to further my lord's agenda, or so he believes' implying that she doesn't actually seek to further her lord's agenda. Furthermore, Jojuri has no yojimbo accompanying her, to me this possibly implies she is not here from her lord or that her lord considers her so minor as to not warrant protection and perhaps her real use here is as an agent of Tadataka or his conspiracy. Then again, perhaps this is just my lack of L5R's knowledge showing through, after all we would likely be here without Kinnosuke if it wasn't for Orinosuke's need to keep an eye on us in regards to Yukari, everyone else who has a yojimbo is a samurai from another clan. I still think the killer is Kitahachi though.

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You have been away from court for too long. Appearances need to be maintained and you should avoid wandering off for too long, unless you wish to earn the ire of Kitahachi. You make your way through the castle and eventually arrive at the audience hall once more, where the other attendants are busy watching a play. You wait for the performance to end and for the applause to follow before you slip inside and take your seat beside Sadayoshi, as inconspicuously as you can. You earn a scathing look from the seneschal, but there is nothing that you can do about that, other than brush it off. It's expected by now.

The next hour is full of music and artistic expression, and you are given little opportunity to do anything other than watch and politely applaud. Interrupting these performances by chattering with other courtiers would be disrespectful, after all. While you feign interest in the show for the sake of politeness, you watch the other courtiers. Akirako appears to be thoroughly enjoying herself, or at the very least she is pretending to. Yukari appears to have returned – she must have arrived just before you did, if you have to make a guess. As for the Lion samurai, they seem to be struggling. While Shoraku is visibly bored, Kitahachi is making an effort to appear somewhat interested, just like you. Despite the mask that he wears, you have no doubt that he would rather be doing something more practical with his time. You can sympathise with that.

After what feels like an eternity, the final musicians finish their song and you applaud for the last time. Yet the rites of the new year are far from over, for the seneschal implores the court to follow him outside and partake in toshikoshi. The journey to the garden is a simple one and shortly after you arrive, you are offered a bowl of soba noodles to enjoy as the sun sets on the first day of the new year and the temple bells start to ring in the distance. It is a peculiar ritual that every caste participates in, throughout all of Rokugan.

Yet you are in the gardens for another reason, another custom that you must follow. Once the toshikoshi has been finished, the servants bring out another dish. It is some sort of steamed and sticky rice cake, a luxurious dish for you to enjoy as dusk sets in and the first fireworks soar up into the heavens. As they explode, they bombard your ears with their thunder and your eyes with the colourful fire that spews out of them. The experience would be terrifying, if it wasn't so enthralling. All the while, you help yourself to the sickeningly sweet cake, which sticks to the roof of your mouth and overwhelms your tongue with the taste of honey.

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It is at this time that Yogo Yukari approaches you, while you are struggling to chew this impossibly sticky sweet and while the air is filled with the cacophony of the fireworks. The perfect opportunity to speak in public without being overheard, you heard – and without any risk of you replying while you are so busy with the cake.

“I pray that you have made good use of your time today,” Yukari mutters to you as she stands by your side. You can barely hear her over the cacophony of the pyrotechnics. “If not, then I hope you have at least justified my absence with one of your usual excuses. I was able to speak with some of the servants and after that, I had the time to inspect Shosuro Jojuri's quarters. Though I did not find anything truly damning, I can assure that she has no love for this city.”

“Mm,” is all that you are able to say in reply as you try to chew your way through your last bite of the rice cake. The blasted thing is stuck to your teeth.

“Matsu Shoraku is not quite as honourable as you think, either. Though I suppose no samurai would be, in the moment following his failure. He struck the first servant that he saw with such strength that he fell unconscious. As for the one who leads the heimin of this estate, it would seem that he is rather open to bribery – from almost anyone, in fact. Jojuri has learned a great deal from the man through this method. Even if she is not complicit in the slaying of Kaneru, something that I find very unlikely, she cannot remain here.”

At last, you are able to speak, no longer hindered by the stickiness of the cake. About time, as well – Yukari enjoys the sound of her own voice far too much.

>Walk away from the shinobi. Whatever she has to say to you, you're not interested. You would much rather spend your time speaking to another samurai instead.
>Chastise her for speaking so openly about the investigation. The risk of being overheard is too great, even with fireworks exploding overheard. Besides, you're going to take any chance you can get to shame Yukari, no matter what it's for.
>Criticise her for focusing too much on one particular person. She has become fixated on the idea that Shosuro Jojuri is responsible for killing Matsu Kaneru and she is blind to any other perspective. Stand up for the emissary from the City of Lies.
>For once, you are willing to admit that she has a point. Jojuri is likely involved in this somehow and even if she isn't, she has to go. (You will increase your strife to 6 / 8 for going against your Delusions of Grandeur.)

>>4677509
How thick are those noodles?

>>4677512
>Chastise her for speaking so openly about the investigation. The risk of being overheard is too great, even with fireworks exploding overheard. Besides, you're going to take any chance you can get to shame Yukari, no matter what it's for.

>>4677512
>Criticise her for focusing too much on one particular person. She has become fixated on the idea that Shosuro Jojuri is responsible for killing Matsu Kaneru and she is blind to any other perspective. Stand up for the emissary from the City of Lies.
Not that she might not be the killer but you know if you arrive to a conclusion beforehand and all that....

>>4677512
>Lightly chide Yukari. It is not her place to decide whether or not Jojuri should remain here, that is for her master to decide. Share what we learned in the Crane's room and ask for her insight regarding the robe and mask as well as the ikebana.

>>4677537
Soba are usually thin from my experience. They certainly aren't thick udon noodles like the crab enjoy.

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>>4677537
On the thinner side.

>>4677512
>Coordinate making an excuse for both of our absences, we didn't have a chance to make an excuse before leaving, as the performances were ongoing and we had no chance to talk. Also ask her what Jojuri learned from the head heimin.

This is in addition to my other vote.

I also don't think the risk of being overheard is a concern, unless anons just want to annoy Yukari. The QM post literally says that we can barely hear her when she is standing right next to us.

The head heimin is a potential big concern, if he is open to bribery then potentially anyone of the samurai or later the magistrate (if he thinks to try bribery) could gain access to knowledge of any other samurai's movements including our own, in addition to knowledge of others who have bribed him potentially.

We'll need to investigate the lion servant and check Kitahachi's quarters as well as the murder room soon. Not only to appease Yukari in regards to making tangible progress but also because Kitahachi may gradually begin to remove evidence like the fabric scrap in the murder room. As he checks up on Mushanokoji every morning he may eventually notice he left a fabric scrap by the window, especially if he noticed he ripped his infiltration outfit, the same goes for other evidence as he retrospects and processes his actions. That is, assuming he is the killer of course, however the same applies if the killer is someone else as well, they may remove evidence over time.

>>4677512
>>Lightly chide Yukari. It is not her place to decide whether or not Jojuri should remain here, that is for her master to decide. Share what we learned in the Crane's room and ask for her insight regarding the robe and mask as well as the ikebana.
>Coordinate making an excuse for both of our absences, we didn't have a chance to make an excuse before leaving, as the performances were ongoing and we had no chance to talk. Also ask her what Jojuri learned from the head heimin.

>>4677512
>Chastise her for speaking so openly about the investigation. The risk of being overheard is too great, even with fireworks exploding overheard. Besides, you're going to take any chance you can get to shame Yukari, no matter what it's for.

>>4677556
>>4677580
Sure, I'll support this. What does Yukari expect to do, put her in a barrel and roll her away? It would cause great suspicion, if not an uproar, if a Scorpion dispeared before an Imperial investigation commenced, and we already knew she was a viper in this court. You either make her an ally, or make her useless to her schemes. We can pour poison into her ears through the head servant, and see if she seeks to help or harm our cause with the misinformation.

Also, I believe that Kitahachi planted the cloth as evidence to implicate the Scorpion, in such a place that it wouldn't be found without some investigation, and Yukari can doubtlessly talk to the Lion servant without raising suspicion.

>>4677512
>For once, you are willing to admit that she has a point. Jojuri is likely involved in this somehow and even if she isn't, she has to go. (You will increase your strife to 6 / 8 for going against your Delusions of Grandeur.)

>>4677512
>>Lightly chide Yukari. It is not her place to decide whether or not Jojuri should remain here, that is for her master to decide. Share what we learned in the Crane's room and ask for her insight regarding the robe and mask as well as the ikebana.
>>>4677537

>>4677512
>>Criticise her for focusing too much on one particular person. She has become fixated on the idea that Shosuro Jojuri is responsible for killing Matsu Kaneru and she is blind to any other perspective. Stand up for the emissary from the City of Lies.

>I'll lock voting there and get to writing the next entry. I'm going with >>4677556 and >>4677580, since that seems to be favored by a lot of people.

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“Unfortunately, you lack the authority to decide whether Jojuri should remain here,” you remind her as soon as you're able to speak properly again. “If her master wishes for her to represent him in this province, then this is where she shall remain, so long as our lord welcomes her here. You are welcome to suggest her expulsion when Yogo Kanzaburo returns but until then, you must accept presence.” You pay little heed to Yukari rolling her eyes behind her mask and continue. “So, you believe that the head servant has been accepting payment from Jojuri. In exchange for what, exactly?”

“Nothing damning,” she admits. She casts a brief look around to ensure that no one is lingering too close to the two of you before she speaks again, her voice hushed. “I have always thought that the man dressed a little too richly for his station, so I took the opportunity to ask him a few questions and 'remind' him that he was beholden to all samurai in service to the daimyō. In the end, he told me everything that he told Jojuri, from the schedules and routes of various servants to the latest gossip. From what I understand, this has been going on for quite some time.”

“I suppose that would be useful when plotting an assassination attempt yet like you say, it is not enough to condemn her.” Though you have to wonder, what use would Jojuri have for such knowledge? Was she just looking for any advantage that she could get her hands on, or has the Shosuro woman always been up to something nefarious? “This seems like an excellent opportunity to get rid of that heimin and replace him with someone more loyal to his lord. As for what I found, it seems as though Akirako possesses a mask that is much like Jojuri's and a kimono, dyed in Scorpion colours. The robe is of rather poor quality though, more suited to a peasant than a samurai. Do you know anything about these items, or any relationship between the Kakita and the Shosuro?”

“I... have certainly never seen the Crane woman wear a mask,” Yukari admits. She almost sounds a little flustered as she all but confesses her lack of knowledge. “Nor have I ever seen her wear a robe of our colours, she knows better than to make such a foolish mistake. Though Akirako was closely monitored when she first arrived in Beiden, she was soon deemed harmless and allowed to wander wherever she pleased within the city walls. As for Jojuri, she arrived more recently – shortly after your own gempuku. I would not say that the two have much in common but they have a cordial relationship.”

“Is that really all you have to offer, Yukari? I thought that you would have been of more use than that.” Before she able to make a witty retort, you segue into another topic. “Now, how should we explain our disappearance this time, should anyone ask? I have no doubt that Kitahachi will try to interrogate one of us again.”

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“Isn't it obvious, Kimiko? Being such a sensitive soul, I was still troubled by Kaneru's demise and I did not have the heart to remain in court for any longer than I had to. As for you, you left once more to console your dear childhood companion, especially since you are unaccustomed to such lengthy and ostentatious performances. Together, we bade one another a prosperous new year, for aren't we such good friends?” She makes a sound of disgust as soon as she is finished and glances up, as the last handful of firework splutter and burn out in the evening sky. “I still despise that particular deception, almost as much as I despise you – but it is all that I have to work with. So let us stick to it and carry on about our business, yes?”

“Very well,” you reply, your voice still hushed. You only hope that she is the one caught by Kitahachi again – though you are amused by the thought of Yukari to play the part of your best friend once more, you don't look forward to having to pretend that you feel anything but hatred for her. “I should see to Atsushi, before it gets late. He most likely has his report for me. Oh, there is one more thing – should you have the time, go to Akirako's quarters and examine the ikebana there. Perhaps you will be able to tell me what it means.”

“Do not think that you can order me around like I am just another minion of yours, Kimiko.” Her venomous tone is contrasted by the friendly and informal bow that she performs – a token effort. You return the gesture as you turn away, though it feels just as insincere. Though as you walk through the garden away from the courtly gathering, you hear Kinnosuke murmur a few words at your side.

“Why Bayushi-san, it almost seems as though you are starting to get along with her.”

“Only because I must,” you mutter in response. “As soon as we are finished with this sordid affair, she shall go back to try and to ruin me and I will do whatever it takes to be rid of her. Do not take our cooperation as something more meaningful, Shosuro-san.”

“Of course Bayushi-san, whatever you say. As always, I shall leave you to speak with your beloved assistant and await your return here.” As he utters those words, he performs a mockingly reverential bow. You had hoped that he had left such childish antics behind when the Lion arrived in Beiden, but it seems as though his penchant for snide words and scornful deeds is slowly returning. Rather than dignify his actions with a response, you continue on your way towards the gate and leave the estate behind. This time, the guards are happy to let you out without even questioning you – you have no doubt that Shunmyo told them to let you pass. Good.

As always, you do not need to walk very far at all in order to meet with the rōnin. Atsushi rests against his usual corner, his arms folded across his chest. His expression is stern and pensive – difficult for you to decipher.

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“Bayushi-sama,” he says, greeting you with a bow. In return, you lower your head respectfully to your dōshin. “I did as you asked. Earlier, I had Bishamon's Balm seized and searched, and its owner detained and questioned.”

“Well? Did you discover out anything important, Atsushi-san?”

“Aye, Bayushi-sama. Among the various liquors kept in the den, it turns out that Uesato also had a stash of poisons. When I first questioned him, he said that they were used for killing pests. I wasn't about to accept an answer like that, so I pushed the man a bit harder. His next claim was that he is patronised by several samurai of the Scorpion Clan, that he keeps these toxins in his house on their behalf, should they ever wish to spend some spiked sake to a rival of theirs. He insists that he's under the protection and that I've no right to punish him.” Well, that might be the source of his grim expression. Regardless, he seems to have done well.

“What about the servant of the Lion who visited the sake house? Did you learn anything about him and how this Uesato knows him?”

“That's the other piece of bad news, Bayushi-sama. He says that he only met this heimin once, when he came to collect the sake and the cups which had already been prepared by one of his workers. Far as I could tell, he didn't know anything about the Lion's minion and when I tried to find this worker he spoke of – well, I couldn't. According to Uesato, he was supposed to be working that day, so he must've somehow escaped when we stormed the den.” A frustrated sigh comes from the wave man, who gestures towards a wooden chest on the ground nearby. “The poisons are in there for you to look over, though I've no doubt that one of them matches the stuff on the cups. Question is, what do you want me to do with the owner of the sake house?”

>Punish Uesato according to the Ritsuryō, the Rokugani book of law. You do not care who he has the patronage of – he will face justice. (You will gain honour if you choose this option.)
>Have him bring Uesato before you tomorrow, so that you can question him personally. Though Atsushi has his uses, you do not trust him as an interrogator. You want to talk with this man for yourself.
>Keep Uesato locked up until one of his samurai patrons demands his release. If no one is willing to come forward and claim responsibility for this poisoner, then he will be punished in accordance with the law.
>Let him go. You suspect that he isn't involved in the assassination of Matsu Kaneru and more importantly, you would rather not make an enemy out of his samurai patrons, whoever they might be.
>Demand payment in exchange for release. In other words, you are open to being bribed. If Uesato wants to escape punishment, he will have to pay up. (You will lose honour if you choose this option.)

>>4678144
>Demand payment in exchange for release. In other words, you are open to being bribed. If Uesato wants to escape punishment, he will have to pay up. (You will lose honour if you choose this option.)

>>4678144
>>Punish Uesato according to the Ritsuryō, the Rokugani book of law. You do not care who he has the patronage of – he will face justice. (You will gain honour if you choose this option.)

In a few days, there'll be an emerald magistrate in the city. I doubt anyone would make a fuss once he appears.

>>4678144

>Keep Uesato locked up until one of his samurai patrons demands his release. If no one is willing to come forward and claim responsibility for this poisoner, then he will be punished in accordance with the law.

Either he gets nabbed or someone implicates themselves by vouching for him.

>Keep Uesato locked up until one of his samurai patrons demands his release. If no one is willing to come forward and claim responsibility for this poisoner, then he will be punished in accordance with the law.

>>4678144
>Punish Uesato according to the Ritsuryō, the Rokugani book of law. You do not care who he has the patronage of – he will face justice. (You will gain honour if you choose this option.)

Samurai patronage does not protect one from the law. I will now quote from thread 2:

>The next few days are spent doing two things. Studying the Ritsuryō is one of them, as you wish to discover just how much of an advantage Shungyosai's samurai patronage gave him.

>The truth is, not much. The tie is similar to that between a samurai and his lord – while the patron is responsible for the actions of his retainer, that does not pardon any unlawful behaviour committed by the servant. If Shungyosai was roving the countryside bribing yoriki under this Shigenaga's authority, they both need to answer for this crime. The merchant needs to be punished for his criminal actions, and his patron needs to be questioned about his endorsement of the trader's activities. It is unlikely that Shigenaga will face any punishment however, as all he needs to do is withdraw his patronage and disown Shungyosai. If he says that he did not condone or authorise the traveller's actions, then it will be his testimony against the trader's – and he will be seen as innocent in the eyes of the law.

***

Uesato can be tortured or interrogated normally and his patrons can be extracted from him through the normal process and then they can be questioned to see if the poisons kept there are truly kept there on their behalf. Let justice be done though the heavens fall.

>>4678144
>Keep Uesato locked up until one of his samurai patrons demands his release. If no one is willing to come forward and claim responsibility for this poisoner, then he will be punished in accordance with the law.

>>4678144
>>Punish Uesato according to the Ritsuryō, the Rokugani book of law. You do not care who he has the patronage of – he will face justice. (You will gain honour if you choose this option.)

These samurai patrons of his will almost certainly escape punishment even if they come forward to claim him. We aren't after them, it is probably normal for scorpions to have criminal contacts and poisoners on hand for use in schemes.

The two things that would be useful here are learning more about this missing worker and learning if Uesato is telling the truth. The worker is our connection to the killer, whether that killer be Kitahachi, Jojuri, some heretic conspiracy, or someone else entirely. The other thing is we need to know if he really doesn't know the lion servant or to determine that Uesato isn't actually this "missing worker" himself. He could be the contact for the lion or the conspiracy, but I find it more likely he is a mere agent whose business merely served a useful purpose and that he was telling the truth and the missing worker is real and simply escaped via hidden passage or by ditching town entirely after he made the poison. If he had a hidden passage, it can be discovered followed to where it comes out to and if it leads to a public place then witnesses can be questioned to determine where he went, if it leads to a private place we can find out who owns that place, also the magistrate station can simply find out more specific details of who this worker is from Uesato and the other workers and track him or her down to their home, assuming they didn't ditch town entirely.

Regardless, I think punishing him is the right move, the patrons are irrelevent, the interrogation can be delegated and I doubt Uesato knows much about the lions/Tadataka. The worker is who we are after.

>>4678144
>Before we decide what to do with him, attempt to match up the poisons in his inventory to the ones used on the sake cups. That will ultimately decide his fate, until then keep him confined barring patron showing up and raising a stink.

If the poison is not one of his? Let him go. If it is well, he get deaded after interrogation and torture.

>>4678144
>Keep Uesato locked up until one of his samurai patrons demands his release. If no one is willing to come forward and claim responsibility for this poisoner, then he will be punished in accordance with the law.

>>4678144
>Keep Uesato locked up until one of his samurai patrons demands his release. If no one is willing to come forward and claim responsibility for this poisoner, then he will be punished in accordance with the law.
We also need to try and match up the poisons.

>>4678144
>>Punish Uesato according to the Ritsuryō, the Rokugani book of law. You do not care who he has the patronage of – he will face justice. (You will gain honour if you choose this option.)

>Writing next entry, locking voting there.

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“We should not infringe on the machinations of my clansmen. Keep him confined until someone is willing to come forward and take responsibility for his actions. If a month passes without anyone claiming to patronise him, then punish him according to the Ritsuryō.” Atsushi's expression darkens when he hears this and the man lets out a sigh of frustration.

“All of this intrigue and scheming... This is why I'm ready to move on, Bayushi-sama. But if that is your wish, then it shall be done. I can only pray that no one will come forward to protect Uesato, and that he'll face justice.” He composes himself. “I only wish that I had accomplished more. Forgive me for this failure.”

“Failure? You have apprehended a poisoner and provided me with something that could play an important part in identifying the killer of Matsu Kaneru.” Not only that, but Atsushi has provided you with the perfect tool for incriminating the Crane. Once again, he has proven himself competent and accomplished a great deal, without you needing to direct him. “Have pride what you have done, Atsushi-san. What else could you have hoped to have accomplished?”

“Uesato played no part in this grand scheme, Bayushi-sama. I should've apprehended this worker that he spoke of – he received the letter, he prepared the cups and the sake that went to the estate. But I didn't, and now he has escaped. With your permission, I'll try to track the man down and see to it that he is questioned. He won't evade me again.” The rōnin stoops to lift the wooden chest and offer it towards you. “In the meantime, here are the poisons for you to take a closer look at. Hopefully you'll find what you're looking for in there, Bayushi-sama.”

>You'll have a closer look at the poisons later. For now, take the chest into the estate and keep it somewhere safe.
>Try to identify a particular poison that fits your suspicions. The rest can be taken back to the station for now. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Medicine skill of 1. You will need to keep four successes.)
>On second thought, the box should be kept at the station for now. Have him bring it back tomorrow, when you have a better idea about what you're looking for.

As for Atsushi, what do you want him to do?

>He should stick to his plan. Let him search Beiden for this runaway worker. Even if Uesato isn't involved in the assassination, his employee most certainly is.
>He should interrogate Uesato more thoroughly. The owner of Bishamon's Balm has to be hiding something, concerning his samurai patrons or his relationship with Tadataka.
>He should help you out in the estate and spend a day questioning all of the servants on your behalf. You'll need to speak with Bayushi Shunmyo about this though.
>He should relax. Honestly, he has been running himself ragged over the past few days and he should take the opportunity to rest. Your assistant has earned some respite.

>>4679010
>Try to identify a particular poison that fits your suspicions. The rest can be taken back to the station for now. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Medicine skill of 1. You will need to keep four successes.)
>He should stick to his plan. Let him search Beiden for this runaway worker. Even if Uesato isn't involved in the assassination, his employee most certainly is.

>>4679010
>Try to identify a particular poison that fits your suspicions. The rest can be taken back to the station for now. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Medicine skill of 1. You will need to keep four successes.)
>He should stick to his plan. Let him search Beiden for this runaway worker. Even if Uesato isn't involved in the assassination, his employee most certainly is.

>>4679010
>Try to identify a particular poison that fits your suspicions. The rest can be taken back to the station for now. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Medicine skill of 1. You will need to keep four successes.)
>He should stick to his plan. Let him search Beiden for this runaway worker. Even if Uesato isn't involved in the assassination, his employee most certainly is.

>Going with:

>Try to identify a particular poison that fits your suspicions. The rest can be taken back to the station for now. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Medicine skill of 1. You will need to keep four successes.)
>He should stick to his plan. Let him search Beiden for this runaway worker. Even if Uesato isn't involved in the assassination, his employee most certainly is.
>I will require a roll of 5d6 using your Air ring of 3 and your Medicine skill of 1. You will need to keep four successes.

>I will accept the best of the first three rolls.

Rolled 5, 2, 6, 5, 1 = 19 (5d6)

>>4679408

Rolled 3, 1, 6, 6, 2 = 18 (5d6)

>>4679408
need at least 1 6 and 3 other success, not impossible but a rather tall order.

Rolled 5, 1, 5, 1, 4 = 16 (5d6)

>>4679408
I love tall orders.

>Going with >>4679419, three successes.

>Though I am very tempted to be cruel and have Kimiko pick a poison anyway, I think that would be a little too punishing. So instead, I will allow you to pick one of the two other options that were presented to you, as Kimiko is unable to identify the correct poison right now.

>So, choose one of the following:
>You'll have a closer look at the poisons later. For now, take the chest into the estate and keep it somewhere safe.
>On second thought, the box should be kept at the station for now. Have him bring it back tomorrow, when you have a better idea about what you're looking for.

>>4679474
>On second thought, the box should be kept at the station for now. Have him bring it back tomorrow, when you have a better idea about what you're looking for.

>>4679474 #
You know, I would be tempted to as well if I was in your position, but considering how close the rolls were I appreciate the choice.

>You'll have a closer look at the poisons later. For now, take the chest into the estate and keep it somewhere safe.

How are you enjoying this quest so far, Fudo? If you don't mind me asking too much, that is.

>>4679474
>>On second thought, the box should be kept at the station for now. Have him bring it back tomorrow, when you have a better idea about what you're looking for.

>>4679474
>>On second thought, the box should be kept at the station for now. Have him bring it back tomorrow, when you have a better idea about what you're looking for.

>>4679490
Returning from a one year hiatus to complete this a sign of enjoyment me thinks

>>4679474
>On second thought, the box should be kept at the station for now. Have him bring it back tomorrow, when you have a better idea about what you're looking for.

>>4679490
>My feelings on the subject are complicated. The quest is full of minor and major flaws, some of which I can fix and some of which I cannot. On one hand, I cannot understand how anyone could actually enjoy it. On the other hand, I know that I am my worst critic and that there's somewhere between five or ten people who like this quest enough that they regularly post. I'm here for them and I want to give them, this quest and myself a little bit of closure. Whether or not this quest continues after this arc is a topic we will have to discuss once it's concluded.

>>4679474
>You'll have a closer look at the poisons later. For now, take the chest into the estate and keep it somewhere safe.

>>4679544
>On one hand, I cannot understand how anyone could actually enjoy it.
That's unnecessarily harsh. There are many many reasons why many are enjoying this.

>>4679556
>Like I said, I realize that I'm my own worst critic, to an irrational degree. If I view the quest from an objective perspective, I can see why some people would like it. If we're talking about any subjective aspects of the quest though, such as the characters, plot or writing, I just don't see what's enjoyable about it. I doubt anyone could convince me otherwise and before anyone thinks that I am fishing for compliments, I am not asking to be convinced otherwise. >>4679490 asked for my opinion, so I'm giving him it.

>But anyway, I'll close voting there and get to writing the next entry. Going with:
>On second thought, the box should be kept at the station for now. Have him bring it back tomorrow, when you have a better idea about what you're looking for.

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You accept the chest and open it up. One by one, you inspect the various jars and the toxic substances that they hold. Some of them, you are able to recognise. There's zakarashi, little white crystals extracted from plum pits. Ingesting even a small amount of it leads to almost certain death – this is what Yukari poisoned you with all those years ago. Another toxin you can identify is hikamu, an oil that wracks whoever drinks it with unrivalled agony. It is horribly bitter however, so only the strongest flavours can mask it. Neither of these are the poisons that you are looking in, and you aren't familiar with any of the others. Eventually, you are forced to give up.

>You suffer a point of strife. Your strife is currently at 4 / 8.

“Take this back to the station,” you command as you offer the box back to Atsushi. “Bring it back tomorrow. Hopefully, I shall have a better idea of what I am looking for by then. Until then, I wish you the best of fortune in tracking down this runaway. And ah, one more thing.” The rōnin glances up towards you as he accepts the chest. An awkward silence lingers in the air for a moment or two, before you muster the courage to continue. “I hope that you shall have a prosperous and joyous new year, Atsushi-san.”

A small grin spreads across the wave man's face. For a few seconds, his stern façade crumbles. “Hah, forgive me for forgetting that particular tradition, Bayushi-sama. May your new year be a good one, full of good fortune. Oh, and uh...” It's his turn for an uncomfortable pause as he glances up and down your figure. He is a man after all, even if he is a decade your senior. When he speaks, his expression softens into a smile. “Though you look incredible, I must admit... A robe like that doesn't suit you, if you'll forgive me for saying so. You're more than just another Scorpion, Bayushi-sama.”

“I suppose I should be grateful for your honesty,” you reply. “Thank you, Atsushi-san.” As the rōnin turns around and marches off with the chest in his arms, you can't help but wonder what he meant exactly. He spoke the truth – you are so much more than the other rank-and-file samurai of your clan – yet how did he come to recognise this? What does he truly think of you? It is something that you ponder as you make your way back to the gate, and back inside of the estate.

Unfortunately, you are not able to walk far without drawing the attention of a particular Lion. It is none other than Matsu Kitahachi, who wears a strained smile on his face. You have no doubt that a day full of unnecessary pomp and ceremony has left him frustrated, and it seems as though you are about to receive the brunt of his half-hidden dissatisfaction.

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“Bayushi-san,” he greets you, lowering his head in a gesture of respect. “I hope that you have enjoyed this most auspicious day. Your steward truly knows how to put on an impressive show, especially considering how it must have been arranged at short notice.”

“Yogo Sadayoshi is a many of many talents,” you reply, though you do not believe a word that you have said. While you are sure that the man has his uses, so far he has done little for you other than chastise you for your fashion sense and descend into hysterics whenever he is taken by surprise. “To answer your question however, I thoroughly enjoyed the performances that I witnessed. Beiden is home to many talented artists and full glad am I that they had the opportunity to express themselves.”

“Are you truly so glad? Your appreciation would come across as more sincere if you were not absent for a significant portion of the day. Your disappearance was almost as long as that of your dear Yogo Yukari. Might I ask what the two of you were up to?” His eyes are locked on yours, with dangerous intensity. You feel somewhat vulnerable without Kinnosuke at your back – damn it, where is he?

>Stonewall him. Let him know that he has no right to question you about how you spend your time and that he has no power over you. This is Scorpion land and he is a guest here – he should learn to behave like one, instead of trying to assert himself as some sort of authority.
>Stick to the story. You went to comfort Yukari and spend some time alone with your best friend, who you have known for most of your life. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep four successes.)
>Antagonise him. He's on edge, with a little bit of goading and taunting, you might be able to make the old Lion to do something stupid. (This will require a roll using your Fire ring of 3 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep three successes.)
>Say something evasive. He won't believe it but you want to read how he reacts, you want to figure out the purpose behind this conversation. (This will require a roll using your Void ring of 2 and your Sentiment skill of 1. You will need to keep three successes.)

>>4679699
>Stick to the story. You went to comfort Yukari and spend some time alone with your best friend, who you have known for most of your life. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep four successes.)

>>4679699
>Stick to the story. You went to comfort Yukari and spend some time alone with your best friend, who you have known for most of your life. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep four successes.)

>>4679699
>>Stick to the story. You went to comfort Yukari and spend some time alone with your best friend, who you have known for most of your life. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep four successes.)

>>4679699
>Stick to the story. You went to comfort Yukari and spend some time alone with your best friend, who you have known for most of your life. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep four successes.)

>>4679699
>Stick to the story. You went to comfort Yukari and spend some time alone with your best friend, who you have known for most of your life. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep four successes.)

I suppose I'll go with the flow on this one.

>>4679544
>>4679574
I appreciate your candor, Fudo. I can only hope your not too hard on yourself. A little self-criticism can help you go a long way, but a lot will make you go little.

>Going with:
>Stick to the story. You went to comfort Yukari and spend some time alone with your best friend, who you have known for most of your life. (This will require a roll using your Air ring of 3 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep four successes.)
>I require a roll of 7d6 using your Air ring of 3 and your Courtesy skill of 2. You will need to keep four successes.

>I will accept the best of the first three rolls.

Rolled 1, 5, 5, 4, 2, 6, 1 = 24 (7d6)

>>4679894

Rolled 5, 3, 3, 3, 5, 5, 1 = 25 (7d6)

>>4679894

Rolled 5, 1, 6, 5, 2, 4, 2 = 25 (7d6)

>>4679894
Kitahachi, are you alright? You look a bit stressed...

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>Going with >>4679897, four successes.

“Though she tries to hide it, Yukari is still shocked by the demise of Matsu Kaneru, if you will forgive me for mentioning that event on such an auspicious day. Once more, I had to go to her side in an effort to console her and convince her to return to court.” Upon hearing your words, Kitahachi offers nothing more than a wry smile. It is evident that he does not trust a word that you say.

“Really, Bayushi-san? Am I supposed to believe that a samurai is so horrified by the death of a stranger that she must isolate herself for hours at a time?”

“It is the truth, Matsu-san. I understand that you might find it rather strange, but please, allow me to explain. Like myself, Yukari was trained to become a warrior of our clan. This is how we met, you see – we were in the same dōjō. Yet while I excelled, she floundered. She could not bring herself to commit acts of violence, even if it was in the name of our clan and empire. While others were critical of her gentle nature, I always admired it – even when she expelled from the dōjō for her inadequacy as a warrior. I was truly glad when I heard that the Shosuro family was willing to train her as an actress, and I think you will agree that it is her true calling, having seen her perform. Through her art she is able to serve the Scorpion and the Emperor, though at times like this when life is lost or blood is shed, her delicate heart is overwhelmed.”

You're rather satisfied with the little story that you have woven. You have still made Yukari look weak, even though you play the part of her friend – you have told a tale that even you could believe, and that seems to convince Kitahachi. The smile slips off of the old Lion's face as he bows his head once more.

“I believe that I understand, Bayushi-san. I can only pray that one day, your friend is able to overcome this fatal flaw of hers. In the end, all samurai are warriors – we live and die for our lords and our clans. This is our lot in life, the dharmic duty thrust upon us by the Celestial Order. I can only hope that one day, Yukari is able to accept this.” You perform a respectful bow before your elder as he finishes speaking, secretly relieved that he has swallowed the lie.

“That is my hope as well yet until that day, I shall endeavour to shield my dear friend from the horrors that a warrior must face. Innocence is something to be protected, not destroyed.”

“I suppose that we shall simply have to disagree on the subject. Forgive me for disturbing your evening, Bayushi-san.” With that, he turns to depart, striding away with his cane in hand. It is a rather brusque departure, but you suppose that he wasn't interested in anything other than snooping on what you've been up to. Enough of that though – you need to find where Shosuro Kinnosuke has got to.

File: Shosuro Thot.png (1.01 MB, 600x900)

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Court has come to a close and most of the samurai have departed from the garden to retire to their chambers, except for a few. Kinnosuke and Jojuri are two of them, and they appear to be embroiled in a coversation. Before you can come close enough to hear what they are saying, the Shosuro notices your presence and turns towards you.

“Oh, Bayushi-san!” She feigns surprise at your arrival once you are within earshot. “Forgive me for borrowing my kinsman, but there were a few things that I wished to discuss with him.” Thankfully, she is wearing a relatively traditional robe today, at least in comparison with her usual skimpy outfits. You doubt that she learned much from him. “Unfortunately, he has been rather tight-lipped so I shall raise the topic with you instead. For what reason have you been so absent from court?”

She asks the question as innocently as possible, a coy smile gracing her lips. Even though there are very few people in the garden, you are still in a public space and she has a part to play. Folding his arms, a pensive Kinnosuke returns to your side and fixes Jojuri with a wary stare.

>Keep your mouth shut. It's none of her business and you'd rather not involve her in all of this. The less people you involve in your investigation, the better.
>Tell her the lie that you just told Kitahachi. It should be simple to repeat the deception and hopefully, it should throw her off of your tracks.
>Question her – about Akirako's mask, about her bribery of the head servant, about her connections to Tadataka, about everything. She's a suspect.
>Renegotiate your original agreement, and try to enlist her aid in this investigation. You won't say no to any assistance that she's able to provide.

>>4680645
>Question her – about Akirako's mask, about her bribery of the head servant, about her connections to Tadataka, about everything. She's a suspect.

>>4680645
>>Question her – about Akirako's mask, about her bribery of the head servant, about her connections to Tadataka, about everything. She's a suspect.

>>4680645
>>Tell her the lie that you just told Kitahachi. It should be simple to repeat the deception and hopefully, it should throw her off of your tracks.


I’m worried that she, Tadakata and Kitahachi might all be Kolat. If so she’s likely the one who fed lion San the info. Regardless our questioning her means we’d need to reveal us snooping to her and she is not our friend here and we’re not supposed to be investigating. It’s loaded ammo for her.

>>4680645
>Question her – about Akirako's mask, about her bribery of the head servant, about her connections to Tadataka, about everything. She's a suspect.

>>4680697
>>4680819
>>4680938
You guys really want to give her the ability to let Kitahachi call for our head? Because we investigating when we are not supposed too?

>>4680645
>>Tell her the lie that you just told Kitahachi. It should be simple to repeat the deception and hopefully, it should throw her off of your tracks.
that filename

>>4680645
>Tell her the lie that you just told Kitahachi. It should be simple to repeat the deception and hopefully, it should throw her off of your tracks.

We're still in public space, and it wouldn't be wise to question her so openly. If she wishes to talk more, we can do it over some tea.

>I'll wait for one more vote to break the tie between the two, and I'll lock after that and start writing.

>>4680645
>Tell her the lie that you just told Kitahachi. It should be simple to repeat the deception and hopefully, it should throw her off of your tracks.

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Lying comes naturally to you at this point. You repeat everything that you told Matsu Kitahachi with a smile on your face, without a moment of hesitation. To begin with, Jojuri appears curious but as you tell your lie, her expression gradually transforms into one of bemusement.

“Truly? I knew that she was expelled by the Seven Stings Dōjō, yet I had no idea that was the reason for her expulsion. I must admit, the mere thought of a 'peaceful' actress amuses me. But ah, I am certain that Yogo Kanzaburo has found some use for her – she would not depart from the estate so frequently if he had not.” You can hear a hint of scepticism in her voice and though she might not know the full extent of your lie, you get the feeling that she hasn't fallen for it.

“Even I am not privy to the details of her work. As precious as Yukari's friendship is to me...” You can't believe what you're saying right now. “... I understand that her duty to our lord comes first. Now, was there anything else that you needed.?”

“Eager to be rid of me, are you? It is hardly as though you have anywhere better to be, unless you had something planned in your private quarters...” First she glances at the skimpy yukata that you are wearing, then Jojuri looks towards Kinnosuke. She makes a small noise of realisation and a truly filthy smirk spreads across her lips. “Oh, I see. Very well, I shall not keep you for longer than I must. There is just one last thing – I have been behaving myself, have I not? I have done nothing to disrupt Sadayoshi's plans, nor have I done anything to exploit the situation for my personal gain. You are still planning on upholding your half of the bargain, are you not, Bayushi-san?”

“Of course, Shosuro-san. Though any chance of negotiating a deal with the Lion died with Kaneru, the steward can still tell your lord that you played a vital part in keeping the peace.” You don't tell her that you haven't convinced Sadayoshi of anything yet. She's better off not knowing.

“Wonderful. I just wanted to make sure. May you have a prosperous new year Bayushi-san, and may I no longer be in Beiden by the end of it.” The Shosuro woman offers a graceful yet obviously insincere bow before she twists about and slinks off into the castle, to retire to her own chambers. By your side, Kinnosuke lets out a breath of relief.

“By the Fortunes, did Jojuri really imply that you and I..?” Your yōjimbō shakes his head in disbelief. “She clearly does not know my taste when it comes to women.” You decide against dignifying that comment with a response. In any case, the sun set quite some time ago and the sky has gone dark. Almost every samurai has retired to their chambers, and it is about time that you did the same.

>Unless there is anything else that you wish to do before you retire, the first day out of four shall come to an end.

>>4681444
Skip forward

>>4681444

>Unless there is anything else that you wish to do before you retire, the first day out of four shall come to an end.

>Second day out of four, rather. I am dumb.

>>4681444
Skip to the next day.

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There is no one else who you wish to speak with and nothing else for you to investigate – at least not today. Two days remain until you need to worry about the Emerald Magistrate, yet there are still some details that you are yet to discover and a lot that still needs to be done, if you wish to do your duty and frame the Crane. Once you have retired to your quarters, you decide to follow the same schedule as yesterday – a killer is still on the loose, after all. You get the first watch while Kinnosuke has the second and when you awaken with the dawn, you find that once again, nothing has happened. At this rate, it seems as though Matsu Kaneru was the assassin's only target.

The third day has begun and once again, you need to decide how to present yourself to the court. As far as you are aware, there aren't any particular events planned for today – the second day of a new year isn't anything particularly special, so you needn't dress up. More importantly, do you wish to begin the day by attending court or by snooping around?

>You should just wear your work clothes. The black hakama, red kosode and black hanten are the unsophisticated uniform of a yoriki, designed for comfort and for travel rather than to be worn in courtly settings.
>Perhaps this is a chance to wear the red furisode, which carries a pattern reminiscent of ears of wheat woven in gold thread. This outfit given to you by Utaku Khulan doesn't seem to make any particular statement.
>If you want to be seen as a samurai of the Scorpion first and foremost, there is no choice that is better than that loose yukata, a black and crimson garment emblazoned with the eponymous animal of your clan. (You wore this yesterday.)
>The jade and gold jūnihitoe is guaranteed to shock whoever beholds it and leave them full of awe. However, it is also a complicated ensemble and donning it properly requires finesse, as well as the assistance of servants.
>Though it is the simplest kimono that you own, now is the time to wear the black tomesode embroidered with golden vines and blossoms. These are colours shared by the Scorpion and the Lion.

>You choose to wear the dark, lacquered wood of the domino mask that you were given at the end of your gempuku.
>The opaque veil that you recently purchased should serve you well and obscure the lower half of your face from sight.

>There's no need for any extravagant hair ornaments. You can appear elegant without them.
>The decorative kanzashi will give you an air of sophistication and help you make a positive first impression.

>Make your way to court, for the sake of appearances and to try and learn from other courtiers.
>Search the estate for more clues and information, and maybe to plant something incriminating.

>>4682004
>Perhaps this is a chance to wear the red furisode, which carries a pattern reminiscent of ears of wheat woven in gold thread. This outfit given to you by Utaku Khulan doesn't seem to make any particular statement.

>The opaque veil that you recently purchased should serve you well and obscure the lower half of your face from sight.

>There's no need for any extravagant hair ornaments. You can appear elegant without them.

>Search the estate for more clues and information, and maybe to plant something incriminating.

Kitahachi will be doing his early morning check up on Kaneru's body, so we should avoid going there first to plant our evidence or check the poison, instead we should investigate the Lion's room or the Lion servant or the head servant. Then we can be in court afterwards, Yukari will probably show up to court initially to keep up a daily appearance before eagerly disappearing for the rest of the day to investigate, that will cover us being gone, then we can return to cover for her. Regardless of the consequences we should make sure to either stay to investigate two places early in the morning or else just investigate one and then return later in the day to plant evidence in the murder room and check the poisons to have an easier time identifying it later tonight. We HAVE to do this, because we need to identify the correct poison tonight and go back to plant it tomorrow, plus we'll need the time tomorrow to do any last minute investigating. It may also be useful to gain a void point today for use in an emergency to make sure we succeed on the poison identification roll or a critical stealth or lying roll. I'm fine with doing this the other way around too, we can appear and court if anons want to keep up appearances or talk to someone and then we can vanish to "comfort our friend", at least it will be consistent.

>>4682004
>Perhaps this is a chance to wear the red furisode, which carries a pattern reminiscent of ears of wheat woven in gold thread. This outfit given to you by Utaku Khulan doesn't seem to make any particular statement

>>4682158
I forgot that there's more to the outfit

>The opaque veil that you recently purchased should serve you well and obscure the lower half of your face from sight

>The decorative kanzashi will give you an air of sophistication and help you make a positive first impression.

>Make your way to court, for the sake of appearances and to try and learn from other courtiers.
We had enough people asking us what we have been up too.

>I'll wait for one more vote to break the tie between these two options. After that, I'll lock the vote and start writing.

>Make your way to court, for the sake of appearances and to try and learn from other courtiers.
>Search the estate for more clues and information, and maybe to plant something incriminating.

>>4682004
>Search the estate for more clues and information, and maybe to plant something incriminating.

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Once more, you decide to honour the gift given to you by Utaku Khulan all of those years ago. The furisode might be a little too traditional for the tastes of some samurai, but you have grown to like it. As for your mask, you decide that the court has seen enough of your face over the past few days – now is the time for subtlety and intrigue, rather than sympathetic smiles. For that reason, you choose the veil. Finally, there is the matter of your destination. There is still so much more for you to discover, far too much for you to waste your time with pleasantries in court. Out of all of the possible places you could search, the den of the Lion seems as though it has the most potential. After all, you suspect Kitahachi more than any other attendant.

You delay your departure by a few minutes. The last thing you want to do is stumble into the shared quarters of the two Lion while they are still present. Once you believe that you have waited long enough, you apprehend a servant and ask him to lead the way. The heimin is more than willing to tell you that while Kitahachi's quarters were originally next to Kaneru's, he was relocated to another room after the diplomat's room – it would be rather morbid to force a pair of samurai to sleep only a handful of yards away from their master, even if there is a wall separating them. The information is quite useful, and perhaps a clue in and of itself.

Upon entering the room itself – you do not see anything particularly out of the ordinary. Much like your quarters and those of Kakita Akirako, the room is divided in two by a screen. Matsu Shoraku seems to have settled into his half of the room, while Kitahachi is still living out of his travel pack, with most of his belongings yet to be unpacked. A curious habit, you must admit.

“Shosuro-san,” you murmur to your yōjimbō. “Search the half that belongs to the warrior first, I shall handle the courier.” With a nod, your colleague goes about his business searching through the belongings of the giant. Who knows, he find something of value of there. You find it far more likely that you will unearth quite a number of clues inside of the pack of Matsu Kitahachi though – that man has to be hiding something from you.

>I require a roll of 6d6 using your Water ring of 2 and your Skulduggery skill of 2. You will need to keep two successes.

>I will accept the best of the first three rolls.

Rolled 1, 5, 1, 2, 3, 6 = 18 (6d6)

>>4683361

Rolled 4, 6, 5, 4, 1, 1 = 21 (6d6)

>>4683361

Rolled 5, 2, 2, 2, 2, 1 = 14 (6d6)

>>4683361

>>4683361
>The heimin is more than willing to tell you that while Kitahachi's quarters were originally next to Kaneru's, he was relocated to another room after the diplomat's room

Why would Kitahachi use the tiled, slanted roof to enter Kaneru's room rather than the door? Unless there is constantly a servant outside the doors of every occupant it makes no sense.

Well, I guess we'll know who it is once we talk to the lion servant.

>>4683369
Bless you anon.

>>4683377
The open window is a ruse. Remember, that is where the torn cloth is hidden, if memory serves.

>>4685115
I remember.

I'm not sure what your saying. Are you saying Kitahachi left the torn fabric on purpose to implicate someone else? My impression of what supposedly happened was that he exited his through the window in his room onto the roof and entered Kaneru's room through their window an also exited via the window, thereby tearing his outfit somehow on the window. Of course any number of variations may have occured, he may have left his room through the door or through the sliding(?) walls and left Kaneru's room through the window or vice versa. Or the killer may not be him at all.

What I'm getting at is that I think all this is mild evidence it may not be him that is the killer. 'Cause if he is in the next room, why not use the hallway and doors instead the slanted roof and the window, he could've been spotted by a patrol. It implies to me that it was someone else in a further away room who wanted to avoid being trapped in close quarters with a servant in the hallways who could witness them close-up.

I wonder if the windows are the type that can even be opened from the outside.

Or I could be a dumbass and be completely misunderstanding this. Though I suppose none of this is new info, we knew they were staying next to each other since forever ago, this was just a reminder.

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>Going with >>4683369, four successes.

It isn't what you discover that matters – it is what you don't discover. The belongings of Matsu Kitahachi are utterly devoid of anything sensitive or personal. You find no sign of any interests he might possess, no books that he likes to read or letters from close friends. His clothes are all tidily arranged inside of his travel pack and though you check each and every robe, none of them seem to be torn. After this inspection, you conclude that Kitahachi is either a thoroughly boring man – even more so than the tepid Daidoji Tokuhei – or that he gone to great efforts to conceal anything that might incriminate him.

This is reinforced by the ashes that you find in the chamber's irori, the square hearth found at the heart of every guest room. More often than not, these are filled with the charred remains of kindling and firewood. In addition to those things, this firepit contains several leaves of burnt paper, all blackened and curled by the heat. The flames have rendered these sheets illegible and they crumble as soon as you touch them, but it is clear to you that someone has been burning letters in this irori.

The belongings of Matsu Shoraku contain far more character. Kinnosuke shows you a few letters that he has found among the warrior's belongings, some of them much older than others just how from crumpled and yellowed they are. Each one seems to be a memento, a physical reminder of Shoraku's past deeds. There's congratulations from his mother regarding his gempuku, a letter of commendation regarding his deeds in battle against the Unicorn – apparently he was responsible for unhorsing three Utaku Battle Maidens in as many days – and an invitation to serve in Last Breath Castle, better known as Shiro Matsu.

The latest of the letters appears to be from Matsu Kitahachi. In this missive, he speaks of how he had spoken with their lord on Shoraku's behalf, in an effort to grant the warrior a more prestigious role. He goes on to describe the samurai's new assignment as the personal guard of Matsu Kaneru, the daimyō's sister. It appears that Kitahachi had an even greater part in planning this visit than you first thought.

There isn't much else for you to find out – nothing of any use in your investigation, at least. A prayer mat among the soldier's belongings reveals that he might be a rather spiritual man, even if he doesn't think very highly of the Tao of Shinsei. There is also a copy of Leadership there, the treatise on war written by Akodo, the Kami of the Lion Clan. Evidence that he is literate, even if he does not read anything particularly interesting.

“I suppose this was not a complete waste of time,” you remark. You know that Kitahachi is hiding something and that he was responsible for Shoraku's assignment as the dead woman's yōjimbō. It's not a good look for the old Lion, even if none of it can be used to incriminate him.

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Once you are done in the chambers of the Lion, you leave the room as you found it and take care to return Kitahachi's belongings to his travel pack, in precisely the arrangement that you found them. Your next destination is the outbuilding that houses the servants, where you plan to speak with the heimin that the Lion brought with them.

On the way though, Kinnosuke has a point to make.

“I believe that there is a lesson that we should learn from when you spoke with the hinin,” your yōjimbō says. “As a group, they were able to influence one another. A peasant's lips are likely to be much looser if we isolate him from the others.”

“You truly believe that we have the time to speak with all of them, one by one?”

“By the Kami, I was not suggesting that. It is hardly wise to waste so much time on heimin, Bayushi-san. You know the particular servant that we are after – speak with the one that delivered the letter and fetched the sake. The others are irrelevant.”

>He has a point. Ask for the particular servant who got the sake from Bishamon's Balm, there is no need for you to interrogate any of the other servants.
>You will have to make the time. You want to question each of the heimin individually, no matter how long it takes. This will yield the most information.
>You did it right the first time. Have the entire group brought out and question them as a group. No matter what Kinnosuke says, it's the most efficient use of time.
>Now that you think about it, you don't have the time to question them at all. Back to court you go, before you get in trouble for disappearing for so long.

>>4685286
>Now that you think about it, you don't have the time to question them at all. Back to court you go, before you get in trouble for disappearing for so long.

>>4685286

>He has a point. Ask for the particular servant who got the sake from Bishamon's Balm, there is no need for you to interrogate any of the other servants.

>Plus somehow ask the lion servant for his best friend among the servants, either bluntly or subtly, we'll (very briefly) interrogate them afterwards to confirm the details of their (the lion servant) departure and return or their mental state and any interactions with Jojuri or Kitahachi. This is only necessary if we fail a roll or it seems like the servant is holding something back.

Sorry for the extra steps, just a precaution in case we screw up this crucial step. As far as I'm concerned screwing this step up means we fail to find the killer either due to a lack of crucial info or a lack of time to attempt alternative solutions.

It seems I was right, Kitahachi seems to be destroying evidence. Probably after too many absences, this may not be a regular OpSec habit but a reaction to both Yukari and us vanishing at the same time too many times or to us subverting Shoraku.

>>4685299
We're already on the way there to outbuilding may as well get this over with. It'll be harder to excuse an absence when events in court are occuring and people are approaching us and when we have to cover for Yukari leaving.

Since it is morning and we havent shown up at court yet we can use the excuse that we are tired from having kept watches last night and humble ourselves by "admitting" that Kinnosuke had a hard time rousing us for court. We can probably even get a void point this way.

>>4685286
>He has a point. Ask for the particular servant who got the sake from Bishamon's Balm, there is no need for you to interrogate any of the other servants.

>>4685286
>He has a point. Ask for the particular servant who got the sake from Bishamon's Balm, there is no need for you to interrogate any of the other servants.

>>4685286
>>He has a point. Ask for the particular servant who got the sake from Bishamon's Balm, there is no need for you to interrogate any of the other servants.

>>4685286
>>He has a point. Ask for the particular servant who got the sake from Bishamon's Balm, there is no need for you to interrogate any of the other servants.

>>4685286
>He has a point. Ask for the particular servant who got the sake from Bishamon's Balm, there is no need for you to interrogate any of the other servants.

did we lose fudo again?

>>4690866
In all honesty, the man deserves a bit of a break. He's been posting everyday non-stop for a while now, and burnout is a bitch to deal with. Let him rest.

Take as long as you need, Fudo-san.

Hello darkness my old friend...

see you next year folks, hopefully

>>4697556
>>4697922
Have a bit of faith lads.

>>4685286
>He has a point. Ask for the particular servant who got the sake from Bishamon's Balm, there is no need for you to interrogate any of the other servants.
I don't want him to disappear on us.

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>Sorry for the delay.

Kinnosuke is right. Once you have left the castle and have arrived at the sprawling outhouse that is home to the servants of the estate, you ask for the presence of a very specific heimin – the one who serves the Lion, who played the part of their courier and who fetched the sake on their behalf. The peasant who answered the door seems rather bemused by the request but with a bow, they retreat back into the structure to find your quarry. Before too long, they re-emerge with another commoner in tow, a swarthy man who appears to be rather anxious. As soon as he spots you, the fellow practically grovels.

“Forgive me for keeping you waiting, samurai-sama.” His tone is equal parts fearful and reverential. “Yet I don't know what use I could be to you. My life belongs to the Lion, not the Scorpion.”

“First of all, I would know your name.” You see no reason to bow before this man, or even nod. He is heimin, unworthy of your respect. “Once you have shared that with me, I would like to know more about your purpose. I understand that it is rather strange for guests of another clan to rely on their own attendants, rather than enjoy the hospitality offered by their hosts.” Upon hearing those words, the heimin balks.

“Forgive me samurai-sama, I don't know much about etiquette. I... My name is Tanji, but that's all that I can tell you. I am beholden to my master, Matsu Kitahachi. If it's answers you're after, perhaps he has them..?”

You can't help but sigh at the servant's reluctance. “You are heimin, Tanji. You are beholden to all samurai – you live to obey. Surely you and your master have nothing to hide, so do as you are told and tell me what I want to know. Why were you brought here? What was written in that letter you delivered, and why did you bring back sake from Bishamon's Balm when we have plenty in this very estate?” As the questions pour out of your mouth, Kinnosuke circles about the peasant, to obstruct the door behind him. Tanji's anxiety only seems to grow before he finally relents.

“My... My master doesn't fully trust your clan, samurai-sama. You've got a reputation, even I've heard of it.” He wilts even as he says those words, as though he expects punishment for daring to speak ill of the Scorpion. “There's four of us. Two have been tasked with keeping an eye on the food and drink as they're being prepared, another attends to the needs of my master and me... I just fetch whatever he needs from outside of the castle. He wanted that letter delivered and some liquor brought to him from that den, so that's what I did. That's all, samurai-sama.” He hesitates, before he continues. “Does this... Does this have something to do Kaneru-sama, and what happened to her?”

“That is not for you to know,” you snap in reply. “Why did he want rice wine from that particular establishment? What was in the letter? There has to be more that you can tell me.”

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“On the way here, I... overheard him speaking with the other samurai. He feared that the Scorpion might try to put something in the sake, to make them ill. He knew about this one den, thought that it would be more trustworthy. I never even looked at the message, it wasn't my place! All I did was deliver it and bring back my master's drink, the cups as well. I didn't even serve it to them, I don't have the grace for that!” Tanji's words become clumsier as he speaks faster, his panic obviously rising.

“If you did not, then who did?”

“My master's attendant, Kugo. The rest of us, we were just picked out of Shiro Matsu's staff! I had never worked for Matsu Kitahachi before this, I swear! But he... Kugo has served Kitahachi for years now. The samurai doesn't trust any other heimin with anything but the simplest tasks!”

“Then I shall speak with this Kugo next.” You turn towards Kinnosuke. “Get the servants to bring forth this peasant – I would like to question him as well. I am sure that the favoured minion of Kitahachi as a few secrets to share with us.” Your yōjimbō casts a disdainful look towards the door of the servants' house but eventually, he bows his head and steps inside, to find a servant to speak with. Meanwhile, you stand watch over Tanji – he occasionally asks inane questions, such as whether he is in any trouble or whether Kitahachi will find out what he has told you. You don't deign to answer them.

Kinnosuke takes longer than expected and when he returns, he is alone and he moves his haste. Though his menpō conceals a great deal of his expression, his brow is furrowed with frustration and when he speaks, you can hear the urgency in his voice.

“Kugo is missing, Bayushi-san. They say that he left his quarters after you called for Tanji – that he left through one of the entrances to the outhouse. If my time as a magistrate's deputy taught me anything, it's that running is a sign of guilt.” From where he stands, he glances around the garden, surveying the castle, the greenery and the walls that surround it all. “I spoke with the ashigaru that guard the servants' gate. He didn't leave through that way, and there's no way that he'll get out through the main gate. Wherever the scoundrel has scurried off to, he's still within the walls of the compound. He'll be found eventually.”

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“Forgive me for interrupting but uh, what about me, samurai-sama? Am I free to go?” The swarthy Tanji fidgets as he asks that question, with such a meek tone in his voice. The poor fool is practically trembling in fear – the Lion certainly know how to train their heimin.

>Have the guards notified that Kugo is to be apprehended and detained for questioning, should they see him. There's no need to actively look for the man – he's bound to show up sooner or later.
>Order the guards to search the estate for this heimin, to find him wherever he has hidden. You can't afford to waste time hunting him down yourself, but the sooner he's caught, the better.
>Lead the hunt for Kugo personally. You don't want the guards to do anything stupid like kill the man before you can get the truth out of him. With their aid, you will scour the estate.
>There is no need to involve anyone else – you know exactly where he has gone. If you choose this option, pick a location within the estate where you believe that Kugo might have ran off to.

>Tanji is free to go. He has told you everything that he can, there's no further reason to question him or detain him. Let him rejoin the other peasants that the Lion brought with them.
>Have the guards find somewhere to lock up Tanji for the time being. There might be more that he could tell you and even if there isn't, you don't want him to go ratting you out to Kitahachi.
>All of the heimin that the Matsu delegation brought with them are going to be detained. If Kitahachi refuses to trust the servants of the Scorpion, why should trust the minions of the Lion?

>>4698586
I'm just catching up with the quest (didn't realize it was alive again) and need to refresh my memory on what we know about the assassination but these are my thoughts for now:

We're on a time limit here, if we think that Kugo is important than we need to find him quick, which probably means taking charge ourselves.

As for what we should do with Tanji, I highly doubt he knows anything else useful, so if we want to detain him it would be purely for the sake of preventing him from going to Kitahachi, which I'm not sure is worth it.

>>4698586
>Lead the hunt for Kugo personally. You don't want the guards to do anything stupid like kill the man before you can get the truth out of him. With their aid, you will scour the estate.

>Have the guards find somewhere to lock up Tanji for the time being. There might be more that he could tell you and even if there isn't, you don't want him to go ratting you out to Kitahachi.

>Lead the hunt for Kugo personally. You don't want the guards to do anything stupid like kill the man before you can get the truth out of him. With their aid, you will scour the estate.

>Tanji is free to go. He has told you everything that he can, there's no further reason to question him or detain him. Let him rejoin the other peasants that the Lion brought with them.

Ultimately I think I'm going with this. I think it's *extremely* unlikely Kitahachi is behind the assassination even if he is more cunning than people usually give the Lion credit for - it would be stretching even a more "relaxed" view of Bushido well beyond the breaking point. With that said I think our primary concern with him should be to try and make sure he doesn't freak the fuck out any worse than the Lion already have, and detaining one of his servants for no apparent reason seems unlikely to help in that regard. Yes, he might tell Kitahachi if we let him go, but Kitahachi would find out about us detaining the servant as well - it'll be difficult to hide for very long.

>>4698586
>>Lead the hunt for Kugo personally. You don't want the guards to do anything stupid like kill the man before you can get the truth out of him. With their aid, you will scour the estate.
>Have the guards find somewhere to lock up Tanji for the time being. There might be more that he could tell you and even if there isn't, you don't want him to go ratting you out to Kitahachi.

>>4698586
>Have the guards notified that Kugo is to be apprehended and detained for questioning, should they see him. There's no need to actively look for the man – he's bound to show up sooner or later.
>All of the heimin that the Matsu delegation brought with them are going to be detained. If Kitahachi refuses to trust the servants of the Scorpion, why should trust the minions of the Lion?

>>4698586
Well, this one is a pretty obvious choice:
>Lead the hunt for Kugo personally. You don't want the guards to do anything stupid like kill the man before you can get the truth out of him. With their aid, you will scour the estate.

This one is a bit more nuanced, however:
>Have the guards find somewhere to lock up Tanji for the time being. There might be more that he could tell you and even if there isn't, you don't want him to go ratting you out to Kitahachi.

Consider the passage in >>4698584.
>I never even looked at the message, it wasn't my place! All I did was deliver it and bring back my master's drink, the cups as well.

Tanji can read, which on its own, is not anything that peculiar. There is no law against it or anything. But, if I was a samurai in a world where most peasants are illiterate, I would make a point of ensuring that the peasant that I had entrusted with running my sensitive letters could not read them. Seems like an unnecessary risk for Kitahachi ... which indicates that something is odd here.

I could just be chasing moonbeams, but it just really stuck out to me. Obviously, it could just be nothing, but at this point, I do not see any reason to take risks. Don't commit to torture, or anything permanent, but under no circumstances let this guy go. For all we know, Kugo' disappearance is a red herring, and we have the catspaw right here.

>>4698586
>Lead the hunt for Kugo personally. You don't want the guards to do anything stupid like kill the man before you can get the truth out of him. With their aid, you will scour the estate.
>Tanji is free to go. He has told you everything that he can, there's no further reason to question him or detain him. Let him rejoin the other peasants that the Lion brought with them.
Try to keep the search on the down low, as much as we can anyway.

>>4698586
Good to have you back Fudo.

>Lead the hunt for Kugo personally. You don't want the guards to do anything stupid like kill the man before you can get the truth out of him. With their aid, you will scour the estate.

>Tanji is free to go. He has told you everything that he can, there's no further reason to question him or detain him. Let him rejoin the other peasants that the Lion brought with them.

We should perhaps have a soft touch when detaining Kugo, especially if he is in the presence of Kitahachi. He could use the excuse that he was just leaving to attend to his master's needs and didn't want to disturb us so chose to leave through another exit.

I also think detaining Tanji will simply give Kitahachi a reason to complain or otherwise cause trouble or accuse us of subverting the proper system of justice, he'll find out we detained him as soon as he goes looking for one of his servants. Though perhaps very briefly holding him somewhere under a weak premise that we just want his services or to talk to him rather than detaining him in an obviously coercive manner we guards could reduce the harm caused while we search, just in case he is our "catspaw" as anon says.

Personally I think he went straight to court to act as one of the countless background servants that fetch us tea and other such menial duties. Where else would he be safe from us other than in Kitahachi's presence, we can hardly arrest him in front of the court.

>Going with:
>Lead the hunt for Kugo personally. You don't want the guards to do anything stupid like kill the man before you can get the truth out of him. With their aid, you will scour the estate.

>I'll wait for one last vote to break the tie between these two:
>Tanji is free to go. He has told you everything that he can, there's no further reason to question him or detain him. Let him rejoin the other peasants that the Lion brought with them.
>Have the guards find somewhere to lock up Tanji for the time being. There might be more that he could tell you and even if there isn't, you don't want him to go ratting you out to Kitahachi.

>>4698586
I generally lurk here, but I’ll break the tie if that’s okay.
>Lead the hunt for Kugo personally.
>Tanji is free to go.

>>4700063
>Thanks for that. Going with:
>Tanji is free to go. He has told you everything that he can, there's no further reason to question him or detain him. Let him rejoin the other peasants that the Lion brought with them.
>I'll post a write-up later.

Just read the whole quest, I really like everything so far. Protagonist is a bit of a brat but that makes everything more fun

>>4708279
What else would you expect someone destined for greatness to act like? Especially one groomed from childhood? It's good characterization.

>>4708574
That's the point I'm getting at?

>>4709163
Do you think I'm disagreeing?

>>4700093
any day now

>>4700093
Don't worry about the quest if real life is knocking at your doorstep. We can always finish up when good and able, mate.