Silence of the Skies (A BQ Empire Quest)

[ReinZero]

Silence of the Skies (A BQ Empire Quest)​

Information Corner
Information Notes
Magic Fields/Skill Lists and Info (Currently Up-to-Date with IC Knowledge)
Basic Human Units​

Character Sheets
PC Sheet - Akamatsu Akio​

Index​

Selection Phase: Region-Nation Selection, Clan & Character generation (core), Clan Background & Character Childhood

Transitional Phase: Arrival and 12th Birthday, Forest Adventure - Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Second Year, A Meeting with the Ito siblings - Part 1,


Dice Table: (Influenced by Chibi Reaper's Dice Table)
100+: Fortune seems to favor you overwhelming now doesn't it? (Over 100 requires modifiers)
91~99: Just as Planned? No, even better by a large margin.
71~90: Excellent, things went fine with some margin to spare.
41~70: Nothing went wrong, nothing far fetched either. (Minor Fail if unknown outside factors are present)
11~40: Ok, not the best of things, but hey, it's... (barely) passable right? Even with that... set back. (Terrible if outside factors are present)
2~10: Maybe this could work... (Reroll)
1 & Lower: Wow, where did you go wrong? (Under 1 requires modifiers of course)

(This is also posted on SB and is the same one being ran over there. So votes will be counted from both ends.)

 

[ReinZero]

[Reserved for later use]

 

[ReinZero]

A land of constant change, where nations raise, weather the sands of time... and fall into obscurity. Most do, but not all. Those that leave their mark and those that prevail upon the times time and time again. Advances made and lost, eras gone by and come upon again.

Will you leave your mark in history? Or fade into obscurity?

What nation are you of?

[ ] A recently consolidated North Western Kingdom, formed by the gathering of several insignificant 'Kingdoms' around a candidate of whom is closer to Royalty than they. A gathering of convenience, only time will tell if it leaves its mark in history or fade into obscurity. That is, if it does not tear itself apart first.

[ ] A Old South Central Kingdom, one of few in the region, beset by a decade of ill fortune and cruel fate, reduced to but shadow of its former glory. Though despite its circumstances, it continues to persist and stubbornly refuses to crumble apart in spite of some its neighbors efforts.

[ ] A Academic Nation of the South Central, one of many in the region, distinguished by its colorful history of consistent government changes. Both from external and internal influences. It is ruled primarily by twelve major houses out of sixteen major houses. There are also a few dozen minor houses of varying significance.

[ ] A Clan of Nobles in the Far East whom have lost their lord. The remnants of a nation torn apart by war from two fronts, yet left unoccupied entirely, a buffer zone between two nations responsible for the ruin of its nation. Seeking an opportunity to rebuild, they relocate to a neighboring island chain that itself is in a state of upheaval. For better or for worse, an uncertain future, but at least it is a hopeful future.

 

[ReinZero]

[X] A Clan of Nobles in the Far East whom have lost their lord. The remnants of a nation torn apart by war from two fronts, yet left unoccupied entirely, a buffer zone between two nations responsible for the ruin of its nation. Seeking an opportunity to rebuild, they relocate to a neighboring island chain that itself is in a state of upheaval. For better or for worse, an uncertain future, but at least it is a hopeful future.

Click to shrink...

The age old nation lead by the Yamagi Shogunate, situated between two major islands of its chain, and also the closest point between the two islands, had but fallen after a decade of constant war wrought by its neighbors. First one nation, then another after the first halted its advance to deal with internal concerns. Only to be conquered by its neighbor after several years. The last two years were but of constant war on two entire fronts. With one nation heavily 'employing' numbers of its integrated neighbor's populace and its fresh forces, eventually, that front cracked and things quickly fell apart.

With both nations claiming grounds left and right, the surviving members were but forced to stake out in contested territory, gradually being worn away. With the Shogun dead at significant loss to the aggressors, and his family's whereabouts unknown even to the Clans aligned with them, it was considered not worth the effort to fully occupy the remainder of the land, but rather became home to frequent skirmishes between the two aggressors while law declined in places outside of the remaining Clans' holdings.

Some left to seek a new liege and fortunes elsewhere anew. While the others, like your Clan, held on, trying to rebuild and hold what little remained. But that determination in such worsening situation only lasts so long, falling apart at the stems when your grandfather was killed. With his death, your father quickly put together assets and gathered the Clan and commoners that remained under the Clan rule, to move to another island in a different chain.

The pace and rate of it held obvious implications that it had already been planned well in advance. But... that's all there is. The island chain in question was chosen because of the turmoil it was in, the clash and conflict there would serve as a means so the Clan would not be immediately targeted and thus could carve out a place for itself from a unlucky nation.

---

Current Starting Difficulty: D Rank (6/10 to next Rank)

Clan Name:
Clan Social Status (Yamagi Shogunate):
[ ] Fudai (Acting Regent, Cannot start own nation) (Difficulty +6)
[ ] Major (Can start own nation immediately or take position of Acting Regent) (Difficulty +3)
[ ] Minor (Can switch nation allegiance, Cannot start own nation immediately) (Difficulty +0)

Ancestral Lands Location (Within the Yamagi Shogunate):
[ ] Coastal
[ ] Mountainous
[ ] Forested
[ ] Volcanic

Religious Affiliation (Far Eastern): [Yes / No]

Branch Families: (Is modified by Social Status & Commoner Population)
[ ] One (Difficulty +0)
[ ] Three (Difficulty +4)
[ ] Five (Difficulty +7)

Clan-Loyal Commoner Population: (Is modified by Social Status & Branch Families)
[ ] Small (Difficulty -1)
[ ] Medium (Difficulty +2)
[ ] Large (Difficulty +5)
[ ] Miraculous (Difficulty +8)

Primary Terrain of New Land: (Clan Occupied)
[ ] Wide Coastline
[ ] Forested
[ ] Mountainous
[ ] Volcanic

---

Name:
Gender: Male [Locked]
Appearance: (A pic is fine too)

You were born and raised in...
[ ] The Clan's Ancestral Lands
[ ] New Lands

Your Lineage was...
[ ] A dense, Pure Lineage (Fudai Only) (+10 Difficulty)
[ ] A Pure Lineage (Fudai and Major Only) (+7 Difficulty)
[ ] A diluted, but still Pure Lineage (Fudai/Major/Minor) (+4 Difficulty)
[ ] A Strong, but Mixed Lineage (Major and Minor Only) (+1 Difficulty)
[ ] A Mixed Lineage (Minor Only) (-2 Difficulty)

Your Teacher was...
[ ] A private instructor, a member of your Clan (Male / Female) (Difficulty +0)
[ ] A Miko (Requires Clan Religious Affiliation) (Difficulty +6)
[ ] Your Mother (Difficulty +0)

In your early years, your early childhood, the time before your twelfth birthday, you spent your time... (Pick up to three. Second and Third choices add +1 and +2 to Difficulty, cumulatively.)
[ ] Playing and Socializing with fellow nobles from other Clans (requires birth in Ancestral Lands). (Difficulty +6)
[ ] Playing and Socializing with fellow Clanmates.
[ ] Tinkering with things and seeking information relevant to such endeavors.
[ ] Learning and Practicing the lessons taught to you.
[ ] Reading and Listening to information on monsters... and the world.
[ ] Reading about and learning of religion (Church / Far Eastern)

---

Rein's OOC Notes Corner:

Note 1: Not everything can be obtained later on for your character, or Clan, if not taken at this point.

Note 2: Bad handling and plans can and will increase difficulty at a earlier/faster rate whereas good handling and plans can offset higher starting difficulty.

 

[Vindictus]

[X] Clan Kusanagi
-->[X] Major Clan

[X] Ancestral Lands- Forested

[X] Religious Affiliation- No

[X] Branch Families- one

[X] Small size

[X] New Land- Volcanic
______

[X] Name- Katsumoto Kusanagi
[X] Appearance- Heavy set with lots of muscles and ruddy, tanned skin

[X] Raised in Ancestral Lands

[X] A strong, but mixed lineage

[X] Your teacher was your Mother

[X] Playing and Socializing with fellow Clanmates
[X] Learning and Practicing the lessons taught to you

Click to shrink...

This look alright?

 

[Redon]

[X] Major (Can start own nation immediately or take position of Acting Regent) (Difficulty +3)
[X] Forested
Religious Affiliation (Far Eastern): [Yes]
[X] Three (Difficulty +4)
[X] Small (Difficulty -1)
[X] Wide Coastline

[X] The Clan's Ancestral Lands
[X] A diluted, but still Pure Lineage (Fudai/Major/Minor) (+4 Difficulty)
[X] A Miko (Requires Clan Religious Affiliation) (Difficulty +6)

[X] Playing and Socializing with fellow Clanmates.
[X] Reading and Listening to information on monsters... and the world.
[X] Reading about and learning of religion (Church / Far Eastern)

 

[Bloodshifter]

[X]plan redon

... doesn't SB have a strict no cross forums policy quests?

 

[ReinZero]

Yeah, Voting closed. Tally of votes also finished. Just posting the vote results first. Appearance is open for voting on and suggestions for it as well. (And I also accept votes from/at SB.)

Clan Name: Akamatsu

Clan Social Status (Yamagi Shogunate):
[X] Major (Can start own nation immediately or take position of Acting Regent) (Difficulty +3)

Ancestral Lands Location (Within the Yamagi Shogunate):
[X] Mountainous

Religious Affiliation (Far Eastern): [Yes]

Branch Families: (Is modified by Social Status & Commoner Population)
[X] Three (Difficulty +4)

Clan-Loyal Commoner Population: (Is modified by Social Status & Branch Families)
[X] Medium (Difficulty +2)

Primary Terrain of New Land: (Clan Occupied)
[X] Forested

---

Name: Akio
Gender: Male [Locked]
Appearance: (A pic is fine too) (Still open to voting on/over)

You were born and raised in...
[X] Clan's Ancestral Lands

Your Lineage was...
[X] A Pure Lineage (Fudai and Major Only) (+7 Difficulty)

Your Teacher was...
[X] A Miko (Requires Clan Religious Affiliation) (Difficulty +6)

In your early years, your early childhood, the time before your twelfth birthday, you spent your time... (Pick up to three. Second and Third choices add +1 and +2 to Difficulty, cumulatively.)
[X] Playing and Socializing with fellow Clanmates.
[X] Reading and Listening to information on monsters... and the world.
[X] Learning and Practicing the lessons taught to you.

Total Starting Difficulty: A Rank 1/10

Click to shrink...

 

[Bloodshifter]

HARD MODO. Let the Tears and Useless Shinies ROLL.

 

[Redon]

Since when, there's several quests that do it already.

 

[ReinZero]

You were born in the traditional holdings long ruled by the Akamatsu Clan, a mountainous place that was apart of the Yamagi-Tarei border. A rather fortunate placement one could say, as the war only came to affect the Clan during the later years of the constant wars. That is as the Tarei Shogunate 'became one' with the Asami- the other mutually joint neighbor- becoming the Asami-Tarei Shogunate. Though even though it sounds equal, the fact that massed numbers of the populace forced into their conflict was from formerly Tarei holdings.

As the heir and only child of the Akamastu Clan, your education and upbringing were given much consideration, to the point where your mother had called in a favor from a friend of her's from a times back to handle your education. Though given circumstances and time itself, it is difficult to call it simply a favor owed and more a trade of favor for a favor.

Namely, a Miko by the name of Asagawa, Rena. Her Kohai (underclassman) during her few years at Centuria and regular contact. With her came along four other Miko would seemed to be her subordinates in ways. Her lessons and manner of teaching were quite… physical to say the least, though there was no lack of mental exercise- just that you didn't get a headache from them as opposed to hurting all over.

Not that it was a bad thing, in fact, it was rather enjoyable, thus the reason why you ended up hurting all over regularly. Though that did worry your fellow Clanmates of your age group, especially Hanako as she was assigned the task of acting as your personal bodyguard… separate of the recently relabelled 3rd Akamatsu Noble Guard assigned to protect you. The relabelling be in accordance to your position in the Clan- that after your parents.

Learning from Rena-Sensei and practicing both on your own and with your fellow Clanmates, you eventually brought up your skill in three elements quite well, while keeping skill in the remaining three. Yes, you took the opportunity to pursue both Ice and Lightning magic. Though the pace you learned it and all seemed… somewhat strange. You're fairly sure it's the difference between your skill and her's… but that wouldn't make that much sense you think- for a mere Miko of no particular standing- that you know of anyways.

A concern, yes, one furthered from your frequent inquiries and sessions brought upon by your pursuit of information about the world… and monsters. The world itself was and is 'one', though it is no longer easily possible to cross the world safely or reliably for most people. That is because of the Distorted Range that have walled off lands, seas, oceans from themselves and others. It is called such as time within is different than time outside, and the space within the Distorted Range is significantly more than what it appears to be from outside. But its name comes not from that, but how within, the lands shift places and are displaced elsewhere frequently and merely stepping in can strand one far from their point of origin.

That alone is not as dangerous, but it is also a home of monsters, a breeding ground as well… and rumoured to be where they also spawn form, though that is merely speculation and often considered to be a mistaken belief brought upon by the sheer number of monsters one can encounter within. Though there are confirmed sightings and records of a few cities and other such places that manage to exist within such a place. The most well known being Centuria, the top magic academy in the world.

Which both your mother and Rena-Sensei had attended. Your father, hadn't, and your mother only met your father afterwards. How long apart between her departure from there and their meeting… you simply don't know- or rather, weren't told. But you figure it was at least a fair while.

And from what you had managed to hear, there were considerations to send you to attend there once you were older. But that never came to be as when the Asami-Tarei Shogunate broke through the initial lines, things quickly went from bad to worse, necessitating a change of plans and withdrawal deeper into the Yamagi Shogunate territory.

The Clan didn't fare quite well in the process but at least managed to keep losses to a minimum. But the economic damage done buried the possibility of such a first class education. Though as your teacher was not apart of the Clan, your education was not affected too heavily.

The time spent with your fellow Clanmates grew somewhat as a result of their parents often being absent due to being on active frontline duty alongside your parents, though you really only got to know four of them.

Two were of the Akogawa branch family. Akogawa, Hanako, your personal bodyguard and of Mixed Lineage. She's often trying too hard- in your eyes that is- to properly do her role and tasks. Her non-identical twin, Akogawa, Hinako… you're pretty sure they had been expected to be identical twins. Hinako though, seems to emphasis a much more lax attitude, much to Hanako's chargin. Neither are the next Clan head, though Hinako is next in line if something should happen to their brother, though Hanako is the elder of the two sisters.

Then there's Nasaki, Eri, of the Nasaki branch family. Also of Mixed Lineage, though on her end, she is the current heir as her brother was one of the casualties in the conflict. She seems to keep to a more 'professional' relation and stance, and as such, often gets dragged into matters by the Akogawa sisters. She doesn't seem to mind it though.

And from the third branch family is Ito, Kinta, the only other male in this group of five. His exact family situation being the worst as the Ito family had sustained the brunt of the losses, though their family's more immediate forces remain the most intact. The only reason why he's actually around present is because of his elder sister- and only other remaining member of the Ito branch family- having arranged for it behind his back and over his complaints. He is a decent person though, even if rather hot headed. You think you'll probably have to rein him in the future from time to time.

The move itself was but shortly before your twelfth birthday, a month in advance that is. And things went well for the most part, but there were still a few of whom wished to stay behind to hold onto at least some of the Clan's ancestral lands. Most of the Samurai who did were of the Akogawa, though on the Commoners side, most were of and under Ito.

As a result, you have somewhat less forces than ideal, but still a fair amount to work with. A fact quickly put into use to secure the landing location and the general area composed mostly of a rather large forest. Most of the noted clearings within having been what amounts to duel sites that seemed to have gotten slightly out of control.

The general population in the area didn't seem to be quite plenty, and the exact situation of the Ikeda Clan- the Clan previously occupying it- seems to be rather poor. Or rather, drawn away by their liege yet stuck in middle of a war that has left their holdings at mercy of invaders. Your arrival is more akin to liberators for the commoners there.

Not that it was all smooth sailing. There was still the pockets of resistance loyal to the former Clan. Though it would probably wrong to still call it one as some information that came by seems to paint it as being nearly as badly off as the Ito branch family. An avenue for approach yes, but they have their pride as a proper Clan.

On your twelfth birthday, you…
[ ] Went on a trip to the nearby mountains with Kenta and his elder sister (with Hanako tagging along naturally).
[ ] Attended an arranged meeting with a member of the Ikeda Clan, with your escort of course, with Rena, Eri, and Hanako present as well.
[ ] Went for a short adventure in the forest with the Akogawa sisters.
[ ] Arranged for a trek with Rena as to explore your… Lineage. Now as opposed to later, as you think you have sufficient grasp of magic already, though Rena is rather… hesitant about it and thinks it should be left for a few years later.
---Location? [Mountains / Cavern in the coastline / Volcano]

Result of Practice and Lessons - Pick Three Elements for B Rank and Three Elements for C Rank.
[ ] Fire [ ] Water [ ] Earth [ ] Wind [ ] Ice [ ] Lightning

Result of Practice and Lessons - Pick Two Weapon Skills for A Rank, One for B Rank, and Three for C Rank
[ ] Katana [ ] Uchigatana [ ] Nodachi [ ] Wakizashi [ ] Nagamaki
[ ] Rapier [ ] Arming Sword [ ] Longsword [ ] Shield
[ ] Naginata [ ] Spear [ ] Yumi

---

I'll put up the character sheet(s) later. Along with info on monsters and so such.

 

[Xicree]

On your twelfth birthday, you…
[ ] Went on a trip to the nearby mountains with Kenta and his elder sister (with Hanako tagging along naturally).
[ ] Attended an arranged meeting with a member of the Ikeda Clan, with your escort of course, with Rena, Eri, and Hanako present as well.
[X] Went for a short adventure in the forest with the Akogawa sisters.
[ ] Arranged for a trek with Rena as to explore your… Lineage. Now as opposed to later, as you think you have sufficient grasp of magic already, though Rena is rather… hesitant about it and thinks it should be left for a few years later.
---Location? [Mountains / Cavern in the coastline / Volcano]

Result of Practice and Lessons - Pick Three Elements for B Rank and Three Elements for C Rank.
[ B] Fire [ C] Water [ C] Earth [ B] Wind [ C] Ice [ B] Lightning

Result of Practice and Lessons - Pick Two Weapon Skills for A Rank, One for B Rank, and Three for C Rank
[ A] Katana [ ] Uchigatana [ B] Nodachi [ C] Wakizashi [ ] Nagamaki
[ ] Rapier [ ] Arming Sword [ ] Longsword [ C] Shield
[ C] Naginata [ A] Spear [ ] Yumi

 

[Vindictus]

[X] Arranged for a trek with Rena as to explore your… Lineage. Now as opposed to later, as you think you have sufficient grasp of magic already, though Rena is rather… hesitant about it and thinks it should be left for a few years later.
---Location? [Cavern in the coastline]

Result of Practice and Lessons - Pick Three Elements for B Rank and Three Elements for C Rank.
[ B ] Fire [C] Water [ B ] Earth [C] Wind [C] Ice [ B ] Lightning

Result of Practice and Lessons - Pick Two Weapon Skills for A Rank, One for B Rank, and Three for C Rank
[A] Katana [ ] Uchigatana [ ] Nodachi [ B ] Wakizashi [ ] Nagamaki
[ ] Rapier [C] Arming Sword [ ] Longsword [C] Shield
[C] Naginata [A] Spear [ ] Yumi

 

[Redon]

moved.

 

[enthalpy]

On your twelfth birthday, you…
[ ] Went on a trip to the nearby mountains with Kenta and his elder sister (with Hanako tagging along naturally).
[ ] Attended an arranged meeting with a member of the Ikeda Clan, with your escort of course, with Rena, Eri, and Hanako present as well.
[X] Went for a short adventure in the forest with the Akogawa sisters.
[ ] Arranged for a trek with Rena as to explore your… Lineage. Now as opposed to later, as you think you have sufficient grasp of magic already, though Rena is rather… hesitant about it and thinks it should be left for a few years later.
---Location? [Mountains / Cavern in the coastline / Volcano]

Result of Practice and Lessons - Pick Three Elements for B Rank and Three Elements for C Rank.
[ B] Fire [ B] Water [C] Earth [ B] Wind [C] Ice [C] Lightning

Result of Practice and Lessons - Pick Two Weapon Skills for A Rank, One for B Rank, and Three for C Rank
[ ] Katana [A] Uchigatana [ ] Nodachi [C] Wakizashi [ ] Nagamaki
[ ] Rapier [ ] Arming Sword [C] Longsword [C] Shield
[A] Naginata [ ] Spear [ B] Yumi

 

[Redon]

[X] Went for a short adventure in the forest with the Akogawa sisters.
Keeper of Storms, FriedIce, Redon, Robotninja, enthalpy, Wing101,

[X] Arranged for a trek with Rena as to explore your… Lineage. Now as opposed to later, as you think you have sufficient grasp of magic already, though Rena is rather… hesitant about it and thinks it should be left for a few years later. ---Location? Mountains
Truthswraith,

[X] Arranged for a trek with Rena as to explore your… Lineage. Now as opposed to later, as you think you have sufficient grasp of magic already, though Rena is rather… hesitant about it and thinks it should be left for a few years later.
---Location? [Cavern in the coastline]
Vindictus,



[ ] Fire
[ B] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Truthswraith, enthalpy, Vindictus, Wing101,
[C] Serous, Redon,

[ ] Water
[ B] Serous, enthalpy, Redon,
[C] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Truthswraith, Vindictus, Wing101,

[ ] Earth
[ B] Serous, Vindictus,
[C] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Truthswraith, enthalpy, Redon, Wing101,

[ ] Wind
[ B] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Truthswraith, enthalpy, Redon, Wing101,
[C] Serous, Vindictus,

[ ] Ice
[ B] Serous, Redon,
[C] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Truthswraith, enthalpy, Vindictus, Wing101,

[ ] Lightning
[ B] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Vindictus, Wing101,
[C] Serous, Truthswraith, enthalpy, Redon,



[ ] Katana
[A] Vindictus,
[ B]
[C] Serous,

[ ] Uchigatana
[A] enthalpy, Redon,
[ B]
[C] Truthswraith,

[ ] Nodachi
[A]
[ B] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Wing101,
[C]

[ ] Wakizashi
[A]
[ B] Vindictus,
[C] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, enthalpy, Redon, Wing101,

[ ] Nagamaki
[A] enthalpy, Redon,
[ B]
[C]

[ ] Rapier
[A]
[ B]
[C] Serous,

[ ] Arming Sword
[A] Truthswraith,
[ B]
[C] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Vindictus, Wing101,

[ ] Longsword
[A] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Wing101,
[ B] Serous,
[C] enthalpy, Redon,

[ ] Shield
[A] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Serous, Truthswraith, Wing101,
[ B]
[C] enthalpy, Redon, Vindictus,

[ ] Naginata
[A] Serous, enthalpy, Redon,
[ B] Truthswraith,
[C] Vindictus,

[ ] Spear
[A] Vindictus,
[ B]
[C] Keeper of Storm, FriedIce, Robotninja, Serous, Wing101,

[ ] Yumi
[A]
[ B] enthalpy, Redon,
[C] Truthswraith,

 

[ReinZero]

[X] Went for a short adventure in the forest with the Akogawa sisters.

Click to shrink...

It was a somewhat easier than expected task of convincing Rena to let you off for the day without chaperoning the trip. Hinako's end was a far more simple task once your side of things was handled, naturally, due rank, whereas Hanako was a given due to her duty.

All of the arrangements had been worked out in advance by the three of you, though the idea of an adventure was proposed by you, Hinako was the one who suggested the locations- all of which were mercilessly shot down by Hanako. But between your ruling on the matter and Hinako's… usual self, Hanako eventually caved in. Of course, she was the one who was enthusiastic about it… and handled the preparations for that matter.

The trip had started off rather well, or at least the impression of such. Though with the three of you rotating turns leading… the results were as expected.

"So, how did you get us this lost, Hina?" asks- or rather, demands- Hanako.

"Ehhh?" Hinako glances at her sister with a questioning expression, "Wasn't this a good thing?"

"No it isn't! How is getting lost a good thing! And on our lord's birthday!" snaps Hanako in turn.

"Well, I suppose this isn't that bad," you remark offhandedly, as you glance at the surroundings, taking in the peaceful sight. "It's a good change of pace."

"See Hana?"

"T-th-that-" Hanako stammes as she tries to find the words to convey her point… without insult or implication of a certain party of course.

"Just relax, it's been a fair while since we've been allowed anywhere outside of supervision," you say while extending a hand to pat her back.

"I-if Akamatasu-sa-"

Halting in your tracks, you turn swiftly turn to face Hanako. "It's fine it's fine. See, Hina understands."

"But… she's like that all the time," replies Hanako as she simply sulks, having apparently given up trying… for now.

"Well, we'll manage somehow," you reply while checking the skies,"Besides, it's still early… only been about two hours since we started."

"-After all, Akamatsu-dono take responsibility for whatever happens~" Hinako simply grins in anticipation-

"Eh-eh?!" Hanako seems to turn a lighter shade of red. For a moment. "No- wait a moment! Don't go shifting your responsibility to Aka-"

You feign a light cough. Of annoyance.

Hanako immediately, by time honed reflex, drops to kneeling posture… with her head lowered as well. "-My apologizes A-" She pauses for a moment as she catches her error "-Akio...sama."

You sigh. Still, even if you did manage to get her to drop formality, her stubborn instance on it is worse than Nasaki, who at least would comply with it, even if its for a blunt, honest opinion. Like last time when you asked her to help critic your completed assignment. Seriously, there was no need to be that straightforward about it. Or lengthy, as her criticism could be summed up within the first twelve words, 'Well, it is not realistically feasible in an actual battle,....'

Then again, it's still progress. In any event, there's no point in dallying around any longer- or rather, before Hanako remembers to bring up her complaints about it. Again. You know for a fact she will not shut up about it if it pertains to your safety- until its rectified or the situation requires silence. Even upon threat of punishment and actual execution of said punishment. After that last incident, you know better than to bother with it in the usual sense and instead, make use of it for the better. But that can wait for now.

"In any case, let's continue," you say as you resume the adventure.

"Hai hai~" / "Y-yes…"

Some short amount of time later, you arrive at the perimeter of a clearing. There clearing itself isn't new, and seems to have been recently tidied up, along with a recently put up signpost.

"Let's head to the village," suggests Hanako. You can certainly understand why.

"Eh? That's a waste Hana. Let's head for the waterfall," replies Hinako.

"Waterfall? That will take us all day to get there!"

You ignore their petty dispute as it is you after all, who has final say in things. And the sign technically points in three ways- not two.

One is to a village, yes. The other obvious one points to the waterfall. The third however, is the direction the pole itself is 'pointed' towards, which requires some degree of attention to the direction its angled towards… though it could also mean nothing.

And so you decide to…
[ ] ...check the surroundings one last time… huh, is that a tail you see there in the bushes?
[ ] ...continue straight ahead where the signpost 'points'.
[ ] ...head to the village.
[ ] ...head to the waterfall.
[ ] … 'investigate' the clearing. Maybe you could find something there?

 

[Pipeman]

[X] ...check the surroundings one last time… huh, is that a tail you see there in the bushes?

 

[ReinZero]

[X] ...check the surroundings one last time… huh, is that a tail you see there in the bushes?

Click to shrink...

So you check your surroundings one last time. For safety as much as in the event you overlooked something. Oh wait. Is that a tail you see there in the bushes?

You pause on it and quietly move closer for inspection. Yup. Indeed, it's a fox tail. Or maybe a kitsune. You'd have to get closer to be sure. Which may or may not draw its attention. Though, then again, given that it's not moving… maybe it's asleep? Or… dead?

As you ponder it and your course of action regarding this fine potential prey- after all, you haven't gone hunting before. Could be a nice sport. Or make a good pet. Your gaze drifts around the surroundings of it.

Eh. Fox ears? Yeah. In other words, that's two there. At minimum. Hm… maybe you should consider the possibly or other ones in the vicinity. Or maybe recently fresh corpses… whom the hunter was driven away by your group's arrival.

With that in mind, you…
[ ] Grab the tail.
[ ] Throw a rock where you think the owner of the tail is at.
[ ] Throw a rock where you think the owner of the ears is at.
[ ] Make a quiet withdraw and head elsewhere! (Select one of the other choices.)
[ ] Light the tail and/or ears on fire (specify which or both)
[ ] Something else? (Write In. Subject to GM ruling.)

 

[Vindictus]

[X] Grab the tail

 

[Robotninja]

[X] Grab the tail

 

[ReinZero]

[X] Grab the tail.

Click to shrink...

Grab the tail, least it runs away. You can save hunting for another time. And so you make your way over, quietly as to not draw attention. You idly note a pair of stares upon you, from behind. The sudden stop in discussion between the sisters also a cue to whom is staring at you. And in one deft motion, you grasp down upon the- fluffy- tail.

A rather cute sounding- if slightly deafening- 'kya' emerges from the bushes. With its owner, one emerald haired girl with a pair of rather matching fox ears sits straight up. You immediately figure she probably isn't a full kitsune, though then again, that's no guarantee.

Thus you find yourself face to face with a pair of rather annoyed, matching emerald eyes and rather tempered self restraint.

"Nee-sama!"

You reflexively turn at the last moment and let your would-be assailant collide headfirst into the bush.

The kitsune-girl's eye twitches as she glares at said assailant… who seems, to a degree, resemble her, though both much younger and probably a year or two younger than you. "Whatever happened to keeping watch again?"

The younger one averts her eyes from her gaze while her tail lays flat on the ground. "I-I'm sorry Nee-sama…."

You promptly release your grip on the elder one's tail while raising an eyebrow at the other waking figure behind the elder kitsune-girl. "So, I presume the three of you were just napping around here?"

"A short break," replies the girl, before glaring again at the younger one, "or at least, that was the idea."

"So in other words, they fell asleep watching your content expression?" you supply helpfully.

"Th… so it'd seem," replies the girl, still no less annoyed. Shaking her head, she turns her attention to you. "So, what business do you have with us?"

"Just an adventure in the forest," says Hanako. From the footsteps, you're fairly certain they're taking up position next to you. The lack of atmosphere to match such, of course, all but means its for formality. Hurray.

"There's nothing of interest here!" shouts your failure of an assailant.

Great enthusiasm no? Jokes aside, Hinako follows up on her words, "In other words, you were either taking a reprieve from said interest or heading to it. Understood."

"There's no such place!" insists the youngster.

"Be quiet," snaps the kitsune-girl. She shakes her head, sighing before she continues, "unless you're bringing a force to there, there's no way to guarantee your safety and in any event, the 'object of interest' is- no, that's not correct, will not be of value unless you can… prove yourselves or something."

"What do you mean by that?" you say- before pausing and feigning a cough. You're on a adventure after all, it makes no sense to be all so fitting of station then… if it would deny you of precious information on your journey! Ok, maybe that's a bit excessive, but still. That's the mood. "My apologizes, Miss, may I ask what did you mean?"

"Really now." The girl sighs again as if not surprised, yet annoyed at your response, "From what I've heard, the Ikeda Clan never formally eliminated the clan that had occupied part of the forest. Rumors say they are simply bidding their time until they can avenge the slight that lead to their downfall- and later the occupation of their former holdings by the Ikeda Clan. That's about as much as I can say for both of our sakes."

"... that's rather… unfortunate," mutters Hanako.

"Indeed, in due time they will raise again…", remarks Hinako, "now where have I heard that before~"

"Hina!" snaps Hanako.

"Hai hai~ Sis, you should take it easy on these occasions or he'll mistake your intentions~" replies Hinako.

"W-what are you implying! S-such a thing, t-there's no impure intentions behind my actions!"

"Yes yes~"

"..." The kitsune-girl, the would-be-assilant, and sleepy-girl, seem to be just staring blankly at the exchange between the sisters.

"They're always like this?" says the kitsune-girl.

"Definitely always like this," declares the younger one.

"Wah? Onee-sama, Nee-san, are we there yet?" says the third one who had been quiet up until now.

"Now then, if you will excuse us," the kitsune-girl gestures to the youngest one, "We must be going. It's been a… time meeting you."

With that, they hurriedly leave. You're pretty sure you won't be able to keep up in the long run to properly track them. So you don't interfere, and as a proof of goodwill, you wait until they're a fair bit out of sight and hearing before turning to face the sisters.

"Dumped already? Don't worry, you still have Hana," remarks Hinako.

"He hasn't been dump-" Hanako turns a lighter shade of red. "No wait! I haven't gotten with-"

"-him yet," supplies Hinako. Helpfully speaking over Hanako of course.

"St-stop making up false accusations! I am not in a re-re-relationship with my liege!" Hanako seems to turn a deeper shade of red. "That's just-"

"Ah, so you've been dumped by your Akio-sama~?"

"NO I HAVEN'T! GAH!!!!!!" Hanako screams in pleasant agreement. Or at least, that's one way to look at it. Otherwise it's just simple frustration. And annoyance. At Hinako.

You simply sigh and resign yourself to a non-interference policy between their sisterly bonding time. Yup. Indeed.

---

All in all, the rest of the adventure was rather pleasant and relaxing. Entertainment wasn't lacking for one thing. Though in terms of rather very much unexpected things… there wasn't much else. After the incident with the kitsune-girl and her two younger fellows, the three of you had an uneventful trip to the waterfall. Most of the way anyways, before being found by Rena and after some convincing, got a hitch to the waterfall to bath and wrap up the adventuring experience.

The scolding afterwards was worth it. You think. Probably. Maybe. You're pretty sure you won't get another chance to do such a thing- or as freely at least- for a fairly long time… so you feel.

(Short) Forest Adventure 'Spoils'
Gained - [Info on Rumored Clan in the Forest]
Gained - [Animosity of a Kitsune?/Girl? or Two]
Gained - [Scolding from Rena]

---

The rest of the year was rather uneventful- for you that is. The situation in terms of Clan holdings was improving if ambit slowly. Internal resistance seems to have died down to a neutrality state, though that also means they refuse to become subjects under the Akamatasu Clan. A disappointment, but still an improvement as it means less resources are needed to keep them in check… though the information you have on that… rumored Clan doesn't seem to be exactly known or acknowledged- if known- which might be a bit… worrying. But your personal assets and resources are limited at the moment, so it can't be helped.

You continued your lessons and training, making process in…
[ ] Your trio of leading elements (Fire, Wind, Lightning) [+2/3 Rank to each]
[ ] Two of your trio of leading elements (Pick Two: Fire, Wind Lightning) [1 Rank Increase]
[ ] Your trio of of supporting elements (Water, Ice, Earth) [+2/3 Rank to each]
[ ] Two of your supporting elements (Pick Two: Water, Ice, Earth) [1 Rank Increase]
[ ] Learning Runes [Gain Runes at D Rank]
[ ] Learning Enchantment [Gain Enchantment at C Rank]
[ ] Learning Reinforcement [Gain Reinforcement at C Rank]
[ ] Learning Healing [Gain Healing at C Rank]
[ ] Learning Magic Theory [+1/2 Progress to EX Rank]

And… in physical combat as well in… (Pick 6 'Total'.)
[ ] …your A Rank Skill (Insert which Weapon Skill; Counts as Three.)
[ ] …your B Rank Skill (Insert which Weapon Skill; Counts as Two.)
[ ] …your C Rank Skill (Insert which Weapon Skill)
[ ] …learning… (Insert which Weapon Skill not chosen previously) at C Rank. (Counts as Two.)

---

The first full year in the new lands was rather refreshing, the much reduced tension and worry for survival from potential troubles infringing upon the Clan's lands as it is no longer a common thing. Though the war was continuing on the front, at the rear- the new home that is- there was little happening this year...except for one thing.

What was it?
[ ] A Ikeda Clan detachment bypassing the border, though mostly having been scattered and forced to withdraw. A straggler from that group showed up with someone… as well.
[ ] A dispute between a merchant and some officials from the Clan broke out at the port.
[ ] Kenta and his sister arranged for a private meeting with you. Or technically, his sister arranged for it behind his back.
[ ] Arranged for a trek with Rena as to explore your… Lineage. Now as opposed to later, as you think you have sufficient grasp of magic already, though Rena is rather… hesitant about it and thinks it should be left for a year or two later.
---Location? [Mountains / Cavern in the coastline / Volcano]
[ ] A 'heated' discussion between Hanako and Kenta. With Eri and Hinako present. Yourself as well, having been roped into it. Hurray.

 

[Xicree]

[X] Learning Magic Theory [+1/2 Progress to EX Rank]
[X] …your A Rank Skill (Shield, Swords, Spear, Polearms)
[X] Kenta and his sister arranged for a private meeting with you. Or technically, his sister arranged for it behind his back.

 

[Pipeman]

[X] Learning Magic Theory [+1/2 Progress to EX Rank]
[X] …your A Rank Skill (Shield)
[X] Kenta and his sister arranged for a private meeting with you. Or technically, his sister arranged for it behind his back.

Click to shrink...

And… in physical combat as well in… (Pick 6 'Total'.)
[ ] …your A Rank Skill (Insert which Weapon Skill; Counts as Three.)

Click to shrink...

You still have 3 physical skills left.

 

[ReinZero]

Xi, double stacking A Rank one is a no-no. If you stack on a C Rank once, that costs 3. Thrice and it costs 6.

 

[Xicree]

Oh alright. ^_^

 

[ReinZero]

[X] Kenta and his sister arranged for a private meeting with you. Or technically, his sister arranged for it behind his back.

Click to shrink...

A certain boy of about 14 years of age, short dark brown hair and red eyes, paces left and right rather impatiently. For a few minutes already he has been waiting for someone to arrive. Naturally, the door slides open and a formally dressed girl- technically, lady- steps in.

"Ah, Onee-sama," says the boy, bowing slightly at the sight of his elder sister.

"Sorry about the wait, I had to drop something off first," replies the girl. She gestures to her younger brother. "Come, let us go."

"Yes Onee-sama." The boy nods and follows after his sister as she leads the way.

A few moments later, as they near their destination, the sister speaks, "Try not to embarrass the Clan name."

"I won't Onee-sama," replies the boy as his sister knocks on the door.

---

"Enter," you say idly as you glance over the stack of papers on your desk. Arranged and kept in order thanks to Hanako. While Hinako helps with checking over them, an extra double checking effort.

The door slides open and the two remaining members of the Ito Branch Family enter the room. You entirely gloss over their self announcement as you already know whom they are. One Ito Shina of whom arranged the meeting, and her little brother, the hot headed Ito Kenta. "Please, seat."

Naturally, they do, though Kenta seems rather uncomfortable about it, then again, he's like this a fair bit when his sister's present. You also motion for the Akogawa sisters to stop what they're doing and seat themselves as well. Somehow, the arrange ends up with Hanako on your right, Hinako across from her, Shina to your left, and Kenta across from her.

Seeing the rather awkward manner of the guest of honor for the occasion, Hinako speaks up, "So here we are today, celebrating the unison of Ito-dono and Akamatasu-sama~"

"Eh- WHAT!" snaps Hanako, with Kenta almost matching her timing.

Shina immediately responses in kind, "If my liege is fine with this one then-"

"WHAT?!" repeats the duo, in perfect sync this time.

"Sure-" the word barely escapes your mouth before being interrupted.

"A-Ak-Akamatsu-sama, please stop joking around!" stammers a belated, red faced Hanako.

"Ara~ Hanako's jealous~"

"That's a shame, we'll have to postpone this then," you remark with feigned sadness.

"Yes, indeed m'lord. Please excuse my brother's lack of… discipline." Shina bows for a moment before continuing, "Jokes aside-" you idely note that neither of the duo seem to believe that it was a joke- "I suppose they are acceptable?"

"Well yes-" you deliberately pause.

On cue, Hinako continues, "-the dish was most exquisite."

You nod in agreement. "Indeed, such a wide variety of delicacies."

"That is good to hear, " replies Shina. "It was my first time making them."

Hanako blinks as realization seems to 'kick' in, "Eh? What dishes?"

"These," you state, handing her several pages that you had last looked over.

Near instantly, Hanako seems to leak smoke from her head- if her scarlet red face is any indicator of it. "T-th-this…."

Ah, cognitive failure. How wonderful. That's a first for Hanako. A improvement in your book. "So, I suppose he doesn't know yet?"

"No, fortunately. Though I apologize in advance for any… outbursts that will occur. Shortly," says Shina.

It is no open secret that the fact that Kenta's inability to keep his temper in check and avoid provocations by others is sub-par at best. With Shina present, it's somewhat better, but… well, you figure the odds of what she had in mind will invoke it… like before. Oh well.

"Well Kenta… the truth is, we need your help," you say in your most serious expression you can manage. A fine one thanks to practice.

His eyes light up and he straightens up, "What do you need me to do Akamatsu-dono."

"We need you to repopulate your/the Clan," you say in perfect tandem with Shina. Barring a few words of course.

Three people nearly fall over. Two from shock. One from laughter. Correction, one hit his head on the floor before he caught himself.

You continue with all due seriousness, "Naturally, this is with consideration of the Ito Branch Family's service and contribution to the Akamatsu Clan. It would be wrong for me to allow such a dedicated Clan like yours fall into obscurity. I would hope that in a thousand years, the idle talk of the land will be of how the ten percent of the island's population will related to you in some way."

"W-WHAT?!"

"Hinako, we need to… talk," says Hanako as she seemingly, has recovered enough to get up and proceeed to haul off Hinako by the collar.

"Aw… I'm innocent though~"

You feign coughing for a moment as the door slides shut after the Akogawa sisters leave the room. "But seriously though, we do need you to rebuild the Ito Branch Family. If we start now, the Clan should be in decent shape in three to four decades. Of course, marriage isn't the only means, but if the Ito Branch Family members die out, then there will be no none left to carry on the name nor legacy."

"..." Kenta lowers his head slightly and frowns. In deep thought he is you note as for once, he isn't making an outburst over such extraordinary demands. "... Please make Onee-sama the head of the Ito then."

"No." It's a simple and firm answer. You could back off, but without making a point of it at minimum, it won't improve the Ito Branch Family's situation in the least while heralding likely decline of them entirely. "Your sister arranged this meeting as so to formally appoint you to head of the Ito."

"I understand that," replies Kenta. He nods. "Indeed, it is for my sake and safety. However, if I take up such, then what is to say that Onee-sama will take as much concern over her own safety? That is my concern, especially if I am then to be elevated to head. That is my condition, that my liege satisfy this selfish request of mine."

Hm… that's different than usual. Not hot headed at all with consideration of things… and faith in you as well. Well, Shina doesn't seem to have a problem with it and seems to be proud of him… for his improvement? In any case, you should prove yourself worthy of such trust… but, in which way should it be handled? How? You rack your mind for an answer.

What is your answer and solution?
[ ] Write In

 

[Vindictus]

[X] "Fine. You're both joint heads of the Ito now."

 

[Pipeman]

Riiight.
You may want to read the discussion the GM and I had in the mirror thread because aside from likely not being allowed, it does practically nothing to address the issue that at least one of them remains expendable.
The reason they both want the other to become head of the Ito is that they want to force the other to take care of themselves and not do something reckless for the sibling's sake.
Making both head of the Ito does nothing to change the status they are in right now.

Edit:
My vote over on SB:

[X] Offer to make Shina your personal guard.
-[X] Shift most representative and official roles towards Hanako, since her family most likely has her doing this for the status it gives. The fact that she'd get to be the more official and important one from a certain perspective may even help tide Hanako over the fact that someone else is, so to speak, infringing on her territory.
-[X] Use Shino in a more advisory role to keep her more out of the way of things and since she should have more experience than the rest of the group, though that probably depends on how much older she is exactly.
-[X] Shina could also be given more of duties concerned with assisting us in our endeavors while Hanako retains more of the martial ones. Although depending on the exact age difference and resulting difference in combat ability this may not be viable for now, this shift in duties could still be arranged later, and the fact that we are relatively unlikely to be in significant danger for a while would be able to decently ensure Shina's safety until then.

If voting is still open when I'm awake I amy go over this and refine it/adjust it according to more information on Shina's age and capabilities that may have been offerd by then.

Click to shrink...

 

[Vindictus]

You might want to start frequenting IRC again.

[17:43] <ReinZero> *pokes Vin for vin vote*
[17:44] * Vindictus mumbles a bit and goes looking for the thread
[17:46] * Vindictus votes for them both to be clan head.
[17:47] <Vindictus> I'm sure they can work out the little details of who's in charge of what out themselves.
[17:58] <ReinZero> ^^
[17:58] <ReinZero> yes, that is a legit option... lol
[17:59] <ReinZero> boring but practical

Click to shrink...

In the end, if they are both saddled with responsibility to the clan, then this solves the 'problem' neatly.