Tsukimi Ceremony

[Etched In Stone 834]

Today was the day, the Grand opening of the finest Martial Arts school in Genesaris. Hundreds if not thousands gathered around Hinode no Gakko, though only a fraction of that percentage were actually permitted entry into the Dojo gates. Those whom were not granted passage still had the luxury of viewing the opening ceremony via telecommunications and video screenings, installed throughout the nations of Jigoku and Ooxora. Easily the school occupied five hundred persons including staff and personnel, yet the Dynasty’s population was considerably much larger than that and could not house every individual that wished to view such a monumental event. Those who were fortunate watched and sat in the stands outdoors awaiting the entrance of the Moon Students and their Soke Grand Master, Kenshibobu Momoku. While their Shihan had other duties amongst the Okami to fulfill, he did not attend and was pardoned because of his service.

The day couldn’t have been any more beautiful with the sun peaking out just a little past noon, shinning bright, blessing the people of Jigoku and it’s Shungenja Swordslayers for the gathering. Vendors of all sorts set up small booths along the perimeter of the dojo grounds, rice cakes, sake, clothes, souvenirs -  you name it and it was there. The crowd waited in desperate anticipation, fathers cheered and hooted for their children those who were accepted and appointed as New Moon students. Others cried out of joy in support of them, while a majority of Moon students ascended into higher ranks - graduating into Half Moons, Full Moons and even the amongst the elite ranks of honorary Akatsukizukuyo. All should have been present at this time. Clan leaders and representatives, the Shogun yet primarily, the Emperor and Empress themselves. The People cheered and chanted further, roared and clapped out of excitement. For once, they stood unified as an entire Nation whether differences amongst them had been settled or not.... it was like they put everything aside to support this day. Personal grudges, the hatred for others. While they fought hard and against each other in work, devotions, and dedications for favoritism of the Emperor. Today, truly drew them even closer as brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers, friends and family. Differences, quickly went out the window and the event had only unified them more. 

Nearly an hour passed before Yokai taiko drummers broke the anticipating desperation in commencement of the ceremony. What began in single slow beats, a basic low toned 1-2 rhythm, gradually increased in volume and pace exciting the audience even more as they conversed with their neighbors. From the great entrance doors of the dojo three drummers presented themselves slowly marching into the outdoors side-by-side in formation. Fireworks made from lurid powders designed by no other than the Hiwatori clan set ablaze shortly after, skyrocketing into the air combusting into bright colors and glimmering lights. The people could not believe their own amazements as they watched and spectated from the benches. A lone drummer sounded the horn hanging from a cord around his neck which in turn, signaled students to head towards the training ground from indoors. The first group to been recognized and called to the proving grounds were the New Moons. One by one they walked forth starting with their most honorary first, finishing with the newer prospects at the end of each respective class. 

Ozu Moromichi had been Team Captain over the New Moons, excelling in his studies at top of his class in only six months from his enrollment. He walked as a natural leader pacing each step between in bare feet, enough confidence impressed even the ground beneath his soles - the people of the Nation would think this teenage boy studied honorably under the teachings of his second cousin the Soke himself. Those would assume this young man held a high esteem and pride for the Okami clan and Dynasty his ichizoku served was falsely claimed. Honestly, he only cared about exceeding his father’s strength that one day he’d be able to kill the scum of a man. His iridescent clear blue eyes scanned over every possible face present in search of his father. While this was suppose to be a time of celebration and happiness, he didn’t feel as so. His internal systems raged to boiling, oh he would have challenged his father to a death battle here and now, in front of all these people to display he was the only true heir of the Satsujinken style. At the cost of his own life would he risk it. The Shihan Lord Shiroyasha never failed him, his only child in fact, he always failed him; failing to encourage his studies with his cousin Soke Kenshinobu. Though he didn’t seek out any appraisal from the man, as he glanced further at the many faces from Jigoku he realized in his own fruition how much consideration they took of his service, more than gratefully.

The sixteen year old Shugenja stopped abruptly in the center of the training ground, one hand spread its fingers flatly upwards while the other pressed against the first in a closed fist. Standing completely erect with only the heels from his feet touching, Ozu commenced a deep bow and pushed with him forth his hands outwardly towards the crowded audience. While the other New Moons were making way to the outdoors Ozu took this time to show off one of his fancied tricks, not that he was showboating. Rather, he was displaying just what exactly the school itself had to offer and this was a good time to release some of his stresses from he day in general. He raised a foot straight to the air swiftly, to the sky his entire leg lifted a total 180 degrees. With that, his back arched just enough to maintain his grounding while he pushed forth and upwardly on the planted foot. Applying a small amount of Yoki to the soles of his feet, his circulatory system charging just enough throughout his 361 tenketsu before releasing in a exhibition of slight prowess. 

Ozu went airborne performing a backwards somersault as his leading foot ignited into a burst of searing crimson flames. The crowd did not believe their eyes in witnessing this yet, as he went flipping an entire 360 degrees they had no choice, but to except the fact this young man executed a flaming reverse somersault kick almost flawlessly. In his extreme confidence, he lifted the following leg from the rear as it too bursted into crimson flames before he landed back on both legs in the position prior to his trajectory. Ozu completed another bow in the same manner as the crowd uplifted in roar and utter satisfaction. This was Ozu Moromichi, the future of Hinode no Gakko if he only desired to be so. Yet, the death of his father by his own hands was most desirable than heading the Dojo as Shihan or leading the Okami clan as warlord.

They would remember this day, the people and they would remember his face, the son of the White Devil Shiroyasha.

@Twitterpated@The Rabbit Emperor@Hani@ShogiJesus

@Aleksei

@vielle

Edited June 29, 2019 by Etched In Stone

[Twitterpated 3497]

That would be the boy's downfall. That show boating, flamboyant nature. She could never deny that he had natural, raw talent with the martial way, but talent could only deliver one so far. Either he'd eventually mature enough to grow past such nature, or he'd parish into vague forgetfulness. Either way, she wouldn't complain. Ozu might have been her cousin, but he was also her rival. Her lessons started roughly six months ahead of his, in which he's nearly managed to accomplish the work that took her a year to do in just half the amount of time. Even now she wore a bandage with a small dot of blood in the middle, worn upon the bridge of her nose. The only evidence of his recent victory defending his captain status before they finally saw it wise to promote her to Hangetsu, Half-Moon. Graduating levels with honors apart from Ozu gave her the admiration she so deserved. The respect and reputation she'd worked hard for on behalf of her father, and his father before him. For the Honor of the Momiji!

Leading out her generation of students, unchallenged at her ascension and proclamation as Captain. At the point anyone was willing to challenge her, she'd retain her position as Captain. While most of the students being recognized today wore red haori, Mikazuki herself adorned a black haori framed in the red traditional patterns that identified as only one thing in this country. A jacket of her acceptance into the Akaktsukizukuyo. For the men of their clans respectively, it was much too easy to find one's place in the ranks of the school, let alone the Wolves of Jigoku. But for her, a female to do this, she had to work twice as hard. As she found her place not far from Ozu's position, she was seen hosting a fine bamboo kendo tucked in her crossed arms.

With the Momiji clan having been assimilated into the Okami generations ago, they had no direct clan leader aside from the of the Okami himself. And while her father was no longer with the family, her Grandfather attended the ceremony today in his honor, and in hopes that his only child, his daughter, could carry on his legacy long enough to see the day that she gave birth to a sun. Should she fail to carry on the legacy, she risked her clans namesake dying with her direct lineage. The fact that she had made it this far at her youthful age was promising, though her and her family both knew there was still a long road ahead of her. If she wanted to succeed without sacrificing her life in anyway, she had to become the only one dictating it.

@Etched In Stone @The Rabbit Emperor @ShogiJesus @Hani @Aleksei @vielle

[Twitterpated 3497]

Sitting higher than the clan leaders, and center most between them was the Emperor himself, leader of the Datsuzoku clan, in which the Dynasty was named after. Inevitably, those here within his service stood as a representation of themselves, but also of himself, his clan, and his prefecture. It was only natural he attend the ceremony as well, and experience first hand the greatness that Kenshinobu and his brand continued to bestow upon himself and this nation. He held no direct part in this, nor had he a desire to speak. He was here merely to observe.

Seated to his left was the Shogun Koharu, in which it was rumored she was interim in this appearance due to their clan's leader having sudden illness, in which he sat to her left. As the head of the Owari clan, Otomatsu was weary of the growing Yanaihara. Their sudden boon in reputation and power threatened the balance of the Kaminari clan, and with the others that affiliated with them. In his ripened age, he'd experienced such before. It was only a matter of time before the Yanaihara grew too big to be controlled by the dwarfing clan that currently sat above it. Just like the Owari, the Yanaihara stood to assimilate their smaller neighbors into a grew whole. A wise move in a game of survival. While the Emperor was busy with the greater issues to come, the internal conflict rested on the lower leaderships beneath his rule. In which the Owari have typically been the balance keepers within the community. One day a choice would have to be made on whether or not to support the Yanaihara. Otomatsu hoped that by then he was no longer alive to be the clan leader, for he didn't like his options either way. If he died here today, his conscious would be clear. To parish after making a choice concerning them and their future, he could not say the same. The Yanaihara natural and promising, when the Kaminari had deeply rooted history as providers for the Owari. A symbiotic relationship his children perhaps weren't so hard up about feeling loyal to.

To the right of the Emperor was the Okami clan leader's seat, and to the right of that sat the Inari clan leader. He stood out with his angular face, evidence of the years of bondage with the fox spirit within him. Likewise the evidence of his status was found in the fox ears protruding from his head, and the tail from his backside. Yoko, their leader was referred to. Rumor had it that the same spirit was passed to each respectively leader when they took the seat, which lead to question if the clan continuously held the same leader or not. Nobody knew his real name, for even he couldn't remember his real name anymore. 

@Etched In Stone @The Rabbit Emperor @ShogiJesus @Hani @Aleksei @vielle

Edited August 13, 2019 by Twitterpated
Ref. Image Links*

[The Rabbit Emperor 303]

Old for a New Moon Raion stood out among his peers, not due his skill or accomplishments or even his age but due to his nationality. A Welander by birth Raion was a recent citizen to the Empire, relinquishing his Terric citizenship and swearing allegiance to the Empire. A student for less then a month Raion had yet to truly assimilate among his fellow New Moons, each of them carrying the burden of clan, honor, or their own ambitions - it was not an environment that cultivated friendship, and each of them seemed to be competing with each other for the much desired title of 'Captain' or beyond.

Senpai Moromichi was the Captain of the New Moons, two years younger then Raion he was prestigiously skilled but was equally abrasive, seeming almost unapproachable in the short time Raion had been apart of the Dojo. For Raion this Dojo was not so dire a competition, his experiences and personality was worried more about besting himself and growing; he lacked the fundamental hunger that so many of the Empire natives seemed to have. It was that same personality which left Raion painfully nervous, his muscles stiff and his eyes unfocused. He did not deal well with social events, less so when so many eyes were on him - he doubted greatly many of the spectators cared much about the zainichi, a slang term for Weland immigrants, but that didn't make Raion any less uncomfortable. 

Absently Raion thumbed the strange looking katana at his hip, the odd sword looking like a mixture of a saber and a katana, with a single handed D guard hilt and a traditional katana blade hidden in a metallic scabbard. It stood stark contrast against his traditional red attire. The Kyu Guntō wasn't a rare blade, in truth Raion's was relatively cheaply made; but it was unusual to see such a weapon on a student of such a prestigious school.

As Senpai Moromichi's display ended Raion silently thanked the younger boy for his desire to be the star of this ceremony. Let the ambitious be the center of attention, Raion just wanted to get back to the his practice swings. 

[Armada 205]

“How inadequate.”

He whispered, commenting on his fellow disciple. Surrounded by members of numerous clans and royalty, Gin Nara was an eyesore; a child of poverty and charity when compared to everyone else. The remaining member of the White Lotus Society and master of Shiroi Hasu Ryu, the 15-year-old had no place to call home and accepted the extended hand from the dojo. He was given a new path in life – a new purpose really and vowed to honor the pledge while upholding tradition and honor in learning new martial techniques; all while cultivating the White Lotus sword style.

Dressed similar to the other disciples attending the ceremony, except the crimson ogre mask, Gin dropped to one knee and greeted the honored guests with the fist and palm salute.

[vielle 6671]

yanaihara kōharu

---

 

The Hinode no Gakko reminds her of simpler times, of prior ties. The very concept of the institution brings both anticipation and regret to her soul, and she is not quite sure which one would win out by the end of the ceremony.

Kōharu sits with measured poise and politician's grace, gazing out over the proceedings with a serene expression on her face. She claps when it is expected, smiles warmly at any who come close to greet her as the Shogun, and tries her best not to out herself as a too-eager disciple of the art of war by keeping herself calm and composed despite the urge to run around the establishment watching the Moons train in starry-eyed wonder and even join them in their practices.

Amidst the reverie, she is reminded of her family, with all the mental fanfare and acrobatic maneuvers her heart does when thinking about them. It has been a long time since she has been a student of a dōjō, let alone a student of the Minobi and of the Fudōshin Dōjō, and it shows quite obviously how much she’s missed being under a sensei of any sort.

The Yanaihara family had been afforded a most expansive array of martial knowledge at their disposal, and so Kōharu had spent most of her childhood trailing after her brothers as they trained themselves in the ways of tessenjutsu, of kusarigamajutsu, of bōjutsu. Steward Kioshi had long considered her a favorite, and had trained her with the blade as necessary, but Kōharu can admit to an inclination towards the war fan.

Perhaps she could even witness one such student amongst the crowd who is adept in handling the tessen; if she were to witness eve one war fan being used in an exhibition today, she would sleep well tonight.

Having finally had her fill of the lack of conversation within the upper box where they are seated, Kōharu turns her attention to the Emperor, giving him a brief bow as best she can while sitting down and waiting for his permission to speak before she lets her query take flight. "What do you think of the boy, then, my Lord?"

 

---

@Twitterpated

[Twitterpated 3497]

"What do you think of the boy, then, my Lord?"

A question in which he hadn't truly considered the answer to, prior to being asked. Moromichi, a clan name he was familiar with as a part of the greater Okami clan. While most of the smaller clans didn't stick out within the Okami, the Moromichi did. The Shiroyasha perhaps it's most tenacious and blood thirsty leader to date. While he didn't look much like him what with his dark hair, Ozu was the son of the White Devil. Taking notice that Shiroyasha was not present at the ceremony, the Emperor wondered why. Surely there was no task as great as to keep the man away from viewing his own child being honored as perhaps the youngest team captain in the history of the school. Had it have been his own son, he'd be honored to view the experience. Still, duty called. So long as the cause of absence was for the sake of the Dynasty and not the self, the Emperor would lose all quarrels with him missing the ceremony.

"There's no doubt that he has raw talent in the martial ways, that is clear even to myself. Though in my experience, talent can only get one so far."

With his father being Shihan of the dojo, and their cousin being Soke, it was easy to see how an inflated ego might dampen his development. Though from what little he'd learned of the boy in his short time at the dojo, the boy was determined more than anything. By what he had no idea, though it was obvious in his eyes that the boy moved with absolute purpose. 

"So long as he remains committed with the school and it's teachings, I have no doubt he'll serve as one of the sharpest of blades the Dynasty has to offer."

While most here were likely oblivious, he could see the scar on Ozu's spirit. The one that branded him a killer. The fact that a boy his age had already managed to kill before committing to formal training was impressive to a certain extent. It showed that the boy knew no bounds, and that he would stop at nothing to achieve his goals. It also showed that the boy was likely preparing to kill a larger, more difficult target in the future. Only time would tell if he was right, and if he was right, only time would reveal whom Ozu's ultimate target was.

@vielle

[vielle 6671]

yanaihara kōharu

---

 

Kōharu nods at the Emperor’s words, takes note of them and files them away in her mind for further perusal. She knows very little of her fellows within the empire; this, too, must be rectified at the soonest opportunity. Operating as Shōgun would require her to push herself to obtain more knowledge, more experience, more plans to better not only the city she presides over but the Dynasty itself.

It is the very reason why she had been installed in her position, after all.

With this thought in mind, Kōharu shifts her gaze back to the Emperor. “Perhaps I should ask Shihan Shiroyasha and Sōke Kenshinobu if a satellite school of Hinode de Gakko can be established in New Union City.” She flicks her fan in the direction of the Moons lined up and presented before them. “I would like to see such grandiose displays of skill and absolute dedication instilled in the aspiring warriors of New Union City as well. It would be of great cost for them to travel from there to here, when the money in their coffers can be used for more productive matters for the betterment of the Dynasty.”

Kōharu pauses for a moment, gazing wordlessly out into the crowds below before she continues. “Is that a satisfactory plan, my Lord?”

 

---

@Twitterpated

[Etched In Stone 834]

Ozu held composure even though settling the dispute with the Nara kid now and then, was something that seemed to be most appropriate for the Shushou of the New Moons. It might have been true, he was privileged, fortunate, and because of that maybe a little too overconfident in his Arts. Yet, just because he was the son of the Shihan did not mean everything given, had not been earned. Ironic that his classmates viewed him as the showboat, to himself, he just worked a lot harder - his techniques, his tenacity, his warrior's spirit having none no other than killing intent, who'd blame him for exhibiting angers and rage more than passion, or love for the Martial Way. No matter the amount of hatred he held in his heart for the Old man of a father he had, the principles stuck with him subconsciously throughout the years of developing. Be strong, be merciless, be ruthless.....

The crowd focused in on the Half Moons making their ways onto the training grounds, leading them his older female cousin Mikazuki bearing the bandage over the nose as she treaded selflessly and with honor. Despite their last close call match, he knew because of them being relatives, possessing nearly the same exact martial comprehensions and whatnot - she was, one of his greatest rivals within the School. Truth be told, the Moromichi had more enemies or rivals rather than he had comrades, but that bothered him very little. He had a reputation to live up to as 1st Division Akatsukizukiyo that required him to endure a careless persona. Yet his ultimate goal was never to be the greatest Hinode no Gakko student, but to excel his teachings his biggest adversary was in fact, his own father. A single almond eye scowered at the boy and his challenging comment, gesturing a pointed index finger in his direction letting it be know he heard his words clear. However, the class Captain had disciplines to disregard the scum of a vagabond whom had no formal teachings from the jump.

"You would know right, out of all of us?"

After all, Gin was attending to learn the Hinode no Gakko style like the rest of his classmates and rank spoke more than just a statement. Obviously the young fellow had some type of jealously about him. Still, Ozu endured the urge of opening him a can of some good whooping and instead, stared up at the box office of clan leaders, the Emperor and the Shogun. Best he contained himself before the ceremony became something, more like a personal feud. Undoubtedly, believed he'd get in any trouble because of it. No, he knew well, the Heika was aware of all within Tsukimi with his Mugen-Me and this was a ceremony for the fittest.

@ShogiJesus

@Twitterpated

@Hani

@The Rabbit Emperor

@vielle

 

Edited June 30, 2019 by Etched In Stone

[Etched In Stone 834]

 

The Soke escorted the Full Moon class to the exterior floors of the Dojo, his Blindsense as clear as the Day he strolled casually forth with hands folded in the deep sleeves of his lavender summer robe. It seemed as if the entire nation was present this day, that he could not only feel the presence from the citizens and crowd anticipating his arrival, but he did also to some extent with his Shin Shin Shingan, he'd view the events of the ceremony as the unfolded. With his escort, a pack of artic white wolves slowly led the way to the training grounds. These dire Cobran Wolves symbolically became Wolves of Jigoku once they were domesticated by the Okami clan. On the outlining perimeter of the grounds, a total of two-hundred lupis canine were present one behind the other formed two separate columns of these wolves. By now, those being elected from the Dojo and attending the ceremony was present numbers close to thousands. As Master Kenshi took in all with his iridescent white eyes scanning about the School, rightfully he had felt at ease, a face of contempt expressed itself in his countenance. Oh how honored he felt to have put this together singlehandedly. Approximately two years ago, he served the Datsuzoku Empire and the Heika as a Shoga-ha guardian. Now, he was the Headmaster of Hinode no Gakko, the School of the Rising Sun.

Wooden sandals would halt themselves from progressing further once Kenshinobu reached the center of the grounds and at that time the taiko drummers finally stopped beating at their instruments. With hands still folded in their respective sleeves he'd announce aloud to the World in the headset over his ears.

"No animal is as frightening as the Wolf that can hide where a single reed is present. Today marks the day, that from hereon in the entire World will witness our might as Wolves of Jigoku. Not only, but our brotherhood and sisterhood under the father clan Datsuzoku. My people, I give you the most powerful warriors the land of this World has to offer in blessing as the Daiokami of the Okami clan. What has only began as seven of us, I have transcended numbers into the thousands in the influences of many that has stood against the Imperial Nation. My great Emperor, this is mostly out of dedication for you."

The Soke did not look his way, but he perceived the Emperor's whereabouts through his Blindsense in which he directed his respected words; the Emperor sat along the with the Shogun Koharu and the other clan leaders in box stands above.

"You have given me light in the darkness of my past, a chance to restore my honor by your side. I was a lone Wolf without direction, a Tsujigiri in search of my own death. In building this School I found redemption."

The Momoku moved around facing different angles of the stadium and stands as he spoke towards the People of Jigoku, though he was speaking to the Heika directly it was evident that he desired the entire Nation to hear such commemorating words. When a set of lurid fireworks exploded into the air they created the images of the symbolic Seven members that originated from the Okami clan in molds of the face of wolves. All were of different color, from different packs, yet they demonstrated their unison together and under one Nation of followers. At this time servants of the Imperial Nation began handing out bowls of Sekihan to the people in the crowds and audience, however not for their own consumptions. No. This was considered ritual. Whenever wolf cubs were born villagers would leave these bowls of red rice as offering as the wolf was regarded highly not only as protectors of rice fields, but for the people. This was meant to honor Kenshi and all the followers beneath him, native and non. Kenshi bowed respectively long and deep as the commencement of the ceremony was to begin with another set of slow strokes from the taiko drummers began to ring and hum. Heading for the large dais back towards the Doors of dojo overlooking the entire area he gave a gentle pat to the shoulder on Raion’s, a bright and talented student also a Terrenus native whom sacrificed his life and family to attend the school. Out of all his disciples, he had to be most anticipant him and his studies while at Hinode.

Surprisingly, the Shogun had made it from Union City to support this day. As she was often tied up in her own affairs, he was more than honored to feel her presence about the vicinity of the Heika. Each class with approximately a hundred students had broken off into three separate segments Ozu led the New Moons, Mizakuzi in the front lines of her Half Moons, and a filler from Okami for the Team Captain of the Full Moons. While these weren’t all that attended the Dojo these were those whom were being recognized in Tsukimi. Still as he searched intently for  Akira of the Niwatori clan he didn’t not feel her in his proximity, nor amongst those of the Dojo. Perhaps she was late? They would just start without her, surely she hadn’t Eason for her tardiness. Column after column, each hosting their own individual special talents, but first they'd perform katas in unison from high kicks - a simple extension of the kicking leg and the forward movement and push off the other foot in one motion. Leg sweeps which required the usage and unison of being able to remain balance while also using the legs to target the incepts of the feet. Straight punches, and palm strikes started as beginner courses for the New Moons, they'd shadowbox momentarily breaking off with sparring partners to continue the show. Students disciplined in the arts of ninjutsu manipulated their element of choice in their displays, utilizing fire, water, earth, even wind as an accessory to their fighting styles. Traditional ways remained as influential foundations at Hinode no Gakko and starting points for the less advanced.

"I have served this country diligently with my heart, soul, and sword and for that; I give the People the Wolves of Jigoku!"

@Twitterpated

@ShogiJesus

@Hani

@vielle

@The Rabbit Emperor

Edited July 1, 2019 by Etched In Stone

[Aleksei 7474]

The little one was quiet, a strange change to one so full of curiosity that nearly spills from her very being. She had wanted to see the whole goings on due to the hum about the ceremony. There was so much to be said about it, making the adults get all dressed up in celebration and the commoners itch with anticipation. There was absolutely no way she was going to allow her father just to enjoy this moment without her being there, not when she can learn so much about these parties adults fear and enjoy so much. 

Within the shadows, the little one lurked, weaving through the legs of bystanders and slipping by hovering forms with too much ease. Not a day of training, but already she was allowing the natural flow of the world around her to push and pull her. The intricacies of what she is have made the little one aware of how much of the worlds magic and life flows through her, but the understanding of such eludes her sweet mind. What matters, according to her mother, is how wide she smiles, how loud she laughs, and how proud she makes her father. Everything else will come in time, and with that in mind, there is no need to rush to become a more magnificent piece to the puzzle that's her family lineage. 

Beside him, the shadows shift to reveal the delicate form of Kaori who had a ready smile pasted on her face. Dressed appropriately for a child with high honors attached to her name, and not like a child who had rolled in mud hours before or stomped through flower gardens chasing frogs. Grabbing handfuls of the delicate fabric, the child climbed into her father's lap with as much grace as a toddler can ever muster. The flower charms attached to the pin in her hair swung back and forth, creating a small tune as she gets comfortable in her proclaimed seat.

"Pèrtè!"

The Renovatian word for Father slid past her lips with ease, and the proud achievement was exemplified by a small giggle followed by a kiss to her father's cheek. Celine had been teaching her both languages, but Kaori found the Renovatian lilt to be more fun in comparison to her father's language. He had yet to say anything about what he'd prefer her to say, what language would better her as his child and make him proud, so she followed her mother's advice under otherwise told. 

Happy, the toddler sat up to look over the edge of the balcony. The entire scene of wonderment was unfolding before her, yet the little one did not appear at all interested in any of it. Maybe living a rather luxurious life has dampened her excitement towards anything this grand, or perhaps her childish mind was far too occupied by something else. When she found what she was looking for, her honey-colored eyes became bright, and the excitement she had withheld was soon released.

"Ozu! Ozu!"

She waved her arms excitedly, thinking he'd see her wave at him with all her might.

Edited July 2, 2019 by Aleksei

[Fierach 3639]

Among the vast crowds that turned out for the celebration, there were at least two who did not belong. 

Masquerading as simple merchants were two Seekers of the Order of Force Majeure. Long ago had Master Knight James Eredas scattered his elite scouts, spies, and reconnaissance force throughout many lands to act as the eyes and ears of the Knightly Ordos, and long ago was the Datsuzoku Empire marked, for James kept an eye on the young Dragon Emperor and his ambitions. 

It was a thorough cover. Both rogues lived an ordinary life, with barely a toe out of line. Why would they? To most who knew them they were loyal citizens of the Empire. All they really did was keep their eyes sharp and ears open, traits which suited them when hawking wares or spying a good deal. Information just came to them naturally... and they passed it on. 

The Hinode no Gakko. It seemed it would be a cornerstone of martial ability for the Empire for years to come.

Edited July 2, 2019 by Fierach

[Armada 205]

“What a presumptuous asshole”

Gin mumbled to himself. He turned around to face the other direction, his feet balanced and light, walking to the entrance where people continued to bustle inwards. “Foolish pride is false bravery and will become your undoing.” A commotion from the corner of his eye caught his curiosity and made him choke. Familiar. Warming. Pain. The interactions of some little girl, quite cute, showing affection for her father in a crowd that made room for the two and appeared in their own little world. 

“Rui … “

Gin dropped his kodachi wrapped in black silk, porcelain sheath glittering underneath in the sun, and dropped to his knee with an anguished cry. His emotions flowed openly and free from the makeshift bandage over his heart, pulling, tugging, stabbing deeply into body as memories of his family’s murder repeated itself again. Again. And again. Then the pain receded and the boy pushed himself to his feet, heart cold like iron, and walked to his appointed place, forgetting the kodachi dropped.

[Hani 225]

KWalking along with the New Moon students, Akira briefly glanced to the crowd of people watching them. Being in the limelight was something she wasn’t use to as she had been taught to blend in with the crowd and not draw attention to herself, but that was something she intended to change here at the dojo. She wanted to be well versed in the fighting style and do something else than protect the crops. She wanted something more thrilling, exciting, new and the dojo seemed to promise that. 

She was nearing her second month and had learned very quickly just how competitive the atmosphere was, but Akira was no pushover. She vowed to herself that she would work hard to learn.

Watching the New Moon Captain, Akira couldn’t help but to feel that the male was being a bit over the top. It did help, however, as form of motivation for her to keep going so she could reach that same level of skill. 

As they walked through the training grounds, she couldn’t help but to notice the interactions between Ozu and Gin and the strange reaction Gin had. Her brows furrowed as she watched him in confusion, but then noticed he left his kodachi behind. So when she was close enough to it, she picked it up, stepped away from her position, and hurried after the male. “Hey, you dropped this.” Akira called out to him. 

[Twitterpated 3497]

As she spoke, Koji was reassured once again of his choice for Shogun to rule over the council of the New Union City. Young, beautiful, smart. this precious jewel courtesy of the Yanaihara proved itself more priceless with each passing day. He had no doubt that they'd continue to thrive, and he even anticipated that they would outgrow their paternal clan at that, The Kaminari. While the Clan leader of the Kaminari didn't seem concerned in the least, one might beg the question of if he felt superior to Koharu, or if he respected Koharu's rank as a Shogun of the Empire. Only time would tell, either way, Koji refused to meddle. He wished to see what sort of ambitions were held by each side, and just what they might be willing to do to obtain those ambitions. 

“Is that a satisfactory plan, my Lord?”

"Indeed, almost as much as your self Lady Koharu."

Shortly after his remark, it seemed that Kenshinobu was finally prepared to deliver his speech commemorating the public opening of the dojo. Already, the school had gained enough attention to draw the attention of two figure heads of greater importance than the cast of clan leaders; The Shogun of New Union City, and the Emperor of the Dynasty himself.

"No animal is as frightening as the Wolf that can hide where a single reed is present. Today marks the day, that from hereon in the entire World will witness our might as Wolves of Jigoku. Not only, but our brotherhood and sisterhood under the father clan Datsuzoku. My people, I give you the most powerful warriors the land of this World has to offer in blessing as the Daiokami of the Okami clan. What has only began as seven of us, I have transcended numbers into the thousands in the influences of many that has stood against the Imperial Nation. My great Emperor, this is mostly out of dedication for you."

"Pèrtè!"

Even Kaori had grown to enjoy the students and instructors, as well as the actual display of their martial way. Her interest warmed him, for this meant she was about ready herself to participate in becoming educated in the arts herself. He did something most never got to see him do as she shouted his personal title and climb her way into his lap. He refused to assist her, as she had been coddled plenty in her short life. Now was the time to build strength! While most of those closest to the Emperor spoke to him in his preferred tongue, his native tongue, he allowed Kaori the same courtesy he afforded himself. To speak however she wished to. Renovatian, Genesaran, Common, Draconic, to him it mattered not. So long as she was happy. His draconic hand came to rest over her legs as she got comfy and sat up to watch the on goings with him. As Kenshi continued, the Emperor afforded the man his gaze once more, especially as he'd just been given the honor of Kenshi's shameless dedication.

"You have given me light in the darkness of my past, a chance to restore my honor by your side. I was a lone Wolf without direction, a Tsujigiri in search of my own death. In building this School I found redemption...I have served this country diligently with my heart, soul, and sword and for that; I give the People the Wolves of Jigoku!"

The crowds viewing both near and far erupted with applause, cheering and jeering with excitement over the announcement marking the obvious end of the concise, formal speech. 

"Ozu! Ozu!"

Kaori called out. The Heika watched intently to see if or how the boy would respond. Perhaps little Kaori was enough to distract him from the negative emotions produced by his absent father, and an apparent hater among the students. From the escort mission to Port Caelum's Hanami festival, Koji had learned that Ozu seemed rather fond of Celine and opened up to her slowly but surely as the trip progressed. Was that enough to also hold interest in entertaining the woman's daughter with the Emperor? Still smiling, he looked to Kenshinobu with a nod of silent gratitude, the crowds still going wild until their hands grew tired and their throats horse from the all the shouting. Rising to his feet, Koji hoisted little Kaori up and sat her upon his shoulder before making his way out of the comfort of his seat and out to the presence of the Soke and those beneath him being honored today. As he walked, he kept a single hand touching the top of Kaori's legs to ensure she remained balanced.