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| A godlike mythical spirit. Some legends say that he helped humanity avert an apocalypse and restored order in the world. | | A godlike mythical spirit. Some legends say that he helped humanity avert an apocalypse and restored order in the world. |
| </tabber> | | </tabber> |
| -->
| |
|
| |
| ==Shadows transcripts==
| |
| <!--
| |
| ==The Art of Kintsugi==
| |
| N/A
| |
| Naoe returns to Iga.
| |
| Naoe reminisced about a light moment with Yasuke.
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [sighs] ''Iga. You'll always be home to me. Even like this.''
| |
| [flashback begins]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Is it hard for you to be here? With me?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What do you mean?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''When you and I were... first here.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No. We've all taken actions we regret while wearing the cloaks of loyalty. All of us. I'm glad you're here with me, Yasuke.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Still. I am sorry you lost your home.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You lost yours, too. At least I still have the pieces.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I never... thought of it that way.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''With the pieces... you can mend. Strengthen. Make something that was already precious even more so.''
| |
| [She gets that instrument out of her pockets]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Have you ever gotten a good look at the little tanuki's handwork?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Kintsugi. It is beautiful.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Maybe it will be the same with our homes.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I do not think we have enough gold for that.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We could bring Gennojo out of retirement. He's an excellent thief.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It will never be the same, though.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''How does it sound, the tsuchibue? After Junjiro mended it?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Even better. See for yourself.''
| |
| [he tries to play it]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Perhaps "better" depends on who is playing.'' [laughs]
| |
| [flashback ends]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No shame in trying. But Yasuke should stick to swords.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Mission==
| |
| ''Luis Frois has invited you to visit the mission. He will be happy to see you arrive.''
| |
| Yasuke decided to visit Luís Fróis at the mission.
| |
| Yasuke learned about some of Fróis's observations of Japan.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Father Frois sounds well. I should speak to him.''
| |
| [yasuke overhears frois]
| |
| *'''Luis Frois:''' ''Beautiful ceramics, but cracked. And the repairs, while masterful, are easily seen.''
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''That is the nature of kintsugi. Repairs are made, but the damage is intrinsic to the object itself. The blemish is part of its history, its essence. Do you see, Father Frois?''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''Remarkable. What a beautiful idea.''
| |
| [press to talk]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Father Frois. I trust all is well with your writing?''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''Indeed! Thanks to you, my work continues. Do you want to hear my latest pages?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Tell me more about your work.''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''The customs of this land are fascinating. In my work, I contrast them with those of Europe. Most recently, I have been working on dancing, child rearing, and poetry.''
| |
| (Tell me about dance.)
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What have you learned about dancing?''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''When we dance in Europe, we leap and cavort. Here, the people dance as much with their hands as their feet.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yes, the dancers often hold still as part of the performance.''
| |
| (Tell me about child rearing.)
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Tell me about the children.''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''In Portugal, our children do not go about armed, and they lack manners. Here, boys as young as twelve might carry a sword and treat everyone with respect.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It is mostly the sons of samurai and daimyo thus equipped.''
| |
| (Tell me about poetry.)
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What about poetry?''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''Portuguese ballads are composed of metrical stanzas with elegant rhyming schemes. But here, verse consists of unrhymed couplets!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I know the ballads that Portuguese sailors sing.'' [chuckles] ''Unfit for priestly ears.''
| |
| (I must be going)
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It is good to see you, Father. But I must be going. And... take good care of your notes. I worry the wind will claim them.''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''True.'' [sighs] ''But it is not the wind that worries me. There are those who will use faith to fan the flames of war. Where the cross leads, the sword often follows.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This is a dangerous world. As you know, Father Frois.''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''We work in peril and must trust in God. May He watch over us all.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Threat==
| |
| ''The baptism party has already left town and they are in danger. Hurry after them and assist!''
| |
| Yasuke hurried to protect the baptismal party from its detractors.
| |
| Yasuke managed to defeat the attackers and save the baptismal party.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Have you seen the baptismal party?''
| |
| *'''Buddhist monk 1:''' ''They left along the trail of the Black Tortoise.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What does that mean?''
| |
| *'''Buddhist monk 2:''' ''The trail of the tortoise Genbu runs north.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Thank you.''
| |
| *'''Buddhist monk 1:''' ''Do not thank us. Thank the tortoise.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Fieldworker:''' ''No, they had a nanban priest with them.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''Careful, there are ronin ahead!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I need to hurry.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Father Frois. I got here as fast as I could. Why did you not wait for me?''
| |
| *'''Luis Frois:''' ''We left because... well it doesn't matter now.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''We almost lost Lady Satoko.''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''Yes, and I thank you for your aid.'' [sighs] ''Our work is difficult.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What will you do now?''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''With God's aid, I shall carry on with my work. Come see me at the Azuchi mission sometime. We must take tea.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Take care, my friend.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Leaving a Mark==
| |
| ''In an attempt to bring the allies together, Junjiro has made a bit of a mess.''
| |
| Naoe overheard a quarrel between Junjiro and Tomiko.
| |
| Junjiro apologized for the mess he had made and presented the Kakushiba ikki with a banner.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''You come out of there this instant, Junjiro.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''No. I'm not coming out until you stop yelling!''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''I won't stop yelling until you come out!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Hmm.''
| |
| [approaches]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What's going on?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I think they can hear you all the way in Sakai.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''The little oni spilled ink all over.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''She hit me with a broom!''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''You have to apologize!''
| |
| Tomiko turned to Naoe.
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''"Our first recruit," you said. Well, he was your recruit, Naoe. So you deal with him.''
| |
| [leaves]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What shall we do, O fearless leader?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You know I prefer a subtle approach. I'll pick the lock and force Junjiro out.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''No! Don't!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Then tell us what happened, Junjiro.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Okay. I did spill the ink. But only because I was busy making something important! And I tried to clean it up but... it's ink.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What were you making?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''A banner. For all of us. But it doesn't matter now. I threw it away where you made me drink that ash tea. And now I'm going to stay in this chest forever!''
| |
| [naoe leaves]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Ash tea? Ah, the clearing where we held the ceremony. Junjiro's banner must be there.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Maybe if I hang it, he will come out of that chest.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''You're an artist, Junjiro. A messy one. But all the same.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Good job, Junjiro!''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Do you like it, Yasuke?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''During my time in these lands, I have seen all the banners one can see. All the clans, all their crests. But of all the banners I have seen, there is none I would rather serve under.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Me neither.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Yatta!''
| |
| Junjiro turned to Tomiko.
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Sorry about the ink, Auntie Tomiko.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''I always knew you'd make a mark on the world, Junjiro. I just didn't know it would start on my floor.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Arrow Strike==
| |
| ''Rin, a young woman from Gobo, needs assistance with a personal matter.''
| |
| Yasuke sought out Rin to teach her to defend herself.
| |
| Rin took up the bow.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This looks like the clearing that Rin spoke of. I know I'm here to teach her to fight, but... I cannot deny my excitement to see her.''
| |
| [approaches]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Hello again, Rin.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Yasuke! Forgive the mess. My grandfather clearly saw little need to be tidy.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Mess never bothered me.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''I can't stand it. How do you find anything?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Organized chaos.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Well, if you're ready to teach, I'm ready to learn. I've found my grandfather's bow, and I've prepared targets. Come.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Here. Show me how an expert archer thinks and shoots. With your guidance, maybe I too can become a master. Show me what you've got!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Nice shot, sensei.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Thank you, but focus. Observe and absorb.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Thank you for the demostration.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Did I prove myself a worthy sensei?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''You will do. If your skills as a teacher are half as good as your shooting, I will be a master archer in no time.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I hope to prove worthy of your praise.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Good with a bow, calm under pressure, and graceful with compliments. I think you'll make for a fine teacher.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It is good to review the basics. Although, most targets shoot back.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Who says it was your shooting I was testing? Nonetheless, I will happily receive your instruction. I was wondering... do you like being a samurai?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''No one has asked me that before. Yes. I am proud of who I am but... I hope my skills will not be needed one day.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Peace has a high price. Thank you for your lesson today.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Keep up your practicing. And when the seasons change, I will return to check on you.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''You'll see how good a shot I have become. It is a shame you can't stay longer.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Like you said. Peace has a high price. Farewell for now, Rin.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Cloud Gazing==
| |
| N/A
| |
| Yasuke decided to pause a moment and rest.
| |
| Yasuke reminisced about a moment with Naoe.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The wind is warm here. And the grass looks soft. A moment's rest would not do any harm.''
| |
| [flashback begins]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What are we meant to do now?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It's easy. You look at a cloud and say what it looks like. Like that one.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It is a macaque holding an umbrella.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What? No way.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yes! It is right there in his hand!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No, look. It's a jellyfish with one weird tentacle.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''If you say so. Perhaps my vision requires better imagination.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Ha ha.''
| |
| [a pause]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [chuckles] ''This feels good.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Talking about stupid things? It does.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Do you ever think about who you would be? If we lived a different life?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Sometimes. Married to some warrior. A good Igan man, like my father wanted for me. Three kids, all running around like crazy. A nice life, I guess.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''But not yours.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''When Hattori Hanzo told me about my mother, it made perfect sense. She wasn't just a warrior. She had a mission. And though it meant she couldn't be in my life... I can understand now why she did it.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I think that no matter when, or where, you would live a life that changed the lives of others.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I hope so. Do you think about it?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It is hard to picture at times. As though my mind keeps me from seeing it.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Because it's too sad?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Not sad. Just... far away. But if I do, I see a life where I can sit down for a moment. Armor does not weigh on my shoulders. My sons roam freely on land that I own. I build a big house on it for everyone.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That sounds nice.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It does.''
| |
| [pause]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What does that one look like?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Tomiko riding a flying squirrel.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That I can see.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Ah! Something bit me!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs]
| |
| [flashback end, play as yasuke]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Well. Back to the real world.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Stealing Samurai==
| |
| ''Dishonest samurai are a plague to the livestock farmers in Yamato.''
| |
| Yasuke is tasked with helping the livestock farmers in Yamato by dealing with the samurai stealing from them.
| |
| Yasuke thinned the numbers of the samurai stealing from the farmers.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Weary farmer:''' ''Are you honest, samurai?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I like to think so.''
| |
| *'''Weary farmer:''' ''It's those Tsuitsui and Akiyama samurai. Always getting drunk, causing trouble. Thieves. Every one.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This kind of man is more common than I would like.''
| |
| *'''Weary farmer:''' ''They stole my only ox. Sold it and spent the profit on new katana to trouble us with. And not only that, they threaten other farmers for their livestock! They want our children as collateral.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''People so quick to abuse their power do not deserve to keep it.''
| |
| *'''Weary farmer:''' ''Then cut these samurai criminals down. Thin their numbers. I will reward you.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I will end them. Reward or not.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Your livestock is safe now.''
| |
| *'''Weary farmer:''' ''Lousy bastards. They deserved it. Thank you. And let's hope my ox shat on their shoes before they sold him.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Restoring Order==
| |
| ''Maria, a proud widow, needs help putting an end to the rampant lawlessness plaguing Omi.''
| |
| Yasuke is tasked with killing the lawless soldiers raiding Oni.
| |
| Yasuke returned to the widow and was rewarded for helping the people of Omi.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What seems to be the trouble?''
| |
| *'''Kyogoku Maria:''' ''I am Kyogoku Maria, widow of the great general Lord Takayoshi.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Maria is not a typical name for a woman here.''
| |
| *'''Maria:''' ''My husband and I became Christians last year. But he died. Even worse, Lord Nobunaga also died. He was the only one who could keep the peace! Now lawless soldiers are ravaging beautiful Omi, despoiling the province and robbing the peasants!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''In desperate times, soldiers often turn rogue and raid the people they're supposed to protect.''
| |
| *'''Maria:''' ''I pray for their raids to end, but so far it's not working. You, on the other hand...''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This is what my allies and I fight for. Peace across the land. We will put an end to the lawlessness in Omi.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Maria:''' ''You! My saint has returned!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''My allies and I have removed many rogue soldiers -''
| |
| *'''Maria:''' ''Yes, yes! I know! Glory to God and my dearly departed husband. Here, take this reward.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Thank you. But we did not do it for a -''
| |
| *'''Maria:''' ''Praise my husband, the saint in heaven. And thanks be to God for your divine intervention!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Farewell, Maria.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The World Out There==
| |
| N/A
| |
| Yasuke and Naoe share a moment admiring the sea.
| |
| The pair discussed the travels beyond Japan, both past and future.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I wonder where they're going.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The big ones prepare for quite the journey. See? They are readying the sails.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I forgot you were Yasuke the sailor before Yasuke the samurai.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Hardly. But I have been on many ships.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What's it like?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Well... there is the seasickness. Long days on the deck in sun or rain. You grow tired of the spoiled rations. But there are also the sunrises and sunsets. You chase the light. Even when you do not catch it, there are the stars.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''And when you got to land. What did you find?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You would be surprised. It is a world divided by {{Wiki|Treaty of Tordesillas|treaty}}. Conquered before their boot even touches the shore. Even this one. At least, that is what they think.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''More division. I was hoping for something else.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I have also seen churches that are more art than architecture. I have smelled spices so fragrant, one sniff is a punch to the nose!'' [laughs] ''And the clothing! You should have seen what they put me in when I arrived.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You didn't keep it for parties?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''Surely Lord Nobunaga had it burned. It is a dark world chasing its own light. A realm of exploration. Those same kings who send conquerors send men in search of knowledge. Discovery.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The explorers must be brave.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yes. They sail into the unknown.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Then let's go. Out there! I want to see it for myself. We'll steal a boat.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''All right. You will flop on the deck like a fish to distract them while I push the captain overboard.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No, I'll push the captain overboard and you'll flop on the deck to distract them. Wearing the outfit you arrived in.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Oh, you think so? I have a better idea. I say we stay. For now. I do not know about you, but... I like it here.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It' far from perfect. But I guess the world out there isn't perfect either.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''We do not need perfection for peace. Once we have it, perhaps I will wave to you from the shore as you set sail, explorer.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We'll see.''
| |
| [end flashback]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I know Naoe wants to see the world. But I wish she could see the promise of the one she is in.''
| |
|
| |
| ==A Better Path==
| |
| ''A monk tormented by bandits needs Naoe and Yasuke's help.''
| |
| Yasuke and Naoe are tasked with relieving a region of the bandits threatening its populace.
| |
| Yasuke and Naoe are rewarded for dealing with the bandits.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Remorseful monk:''' ''You! With the sturdy stride!''
| |
| [talk]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Do you need help?''
| |
| *'''Remorseful monk:''' ''First, a confession. Before you accept. I... was once a bandit. I left my old life to follow a more spiritual path.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This is not some clever trick?''
| |
| *'''Remorseful monk:''' ''No trick! My old bandit friends take offense. They've tried to kill me once already.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''They must have taken your new identity to heart.''
| |
| *'''Remorseful monk:''' ''Perhaps. But these bandits threaten all monks and pilgrims in the region.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Then I will deal with them, for the sake of all.''
| |
| *'''Remorseful monk:''' ''Thank you. You will be rewarded. Return when the bandits are dead, and when the people are safe. And when my life is no longer at risk.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The bandits are gone. You can live your new life in peace.''
| |
| *'''Remorseful monk:''' ''You have done a great service.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Stick to this new path. Or I may have cause to return.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Accursed Arquebuses==
| |
| ''An elderly man recruits Naoe and Yasuke to deal with bandits tormenting Tamba peasants with Portuguese teppo.''
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke are tasked with dealing with the teppo-wielding bandits terrorizing Tamba.
| |
| Yasuke and Naoe are rewarded for dealing with the bandits.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Elderly noble:''' ''You! Yes. I require your assistance.''
| |
| [talk]
| |
| *'''Elderly noble:''' ''You carry yourself like a warrior. You might be able to help me.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''And what is it you think I can help you with?''
| |
| *'''Elderly noble:''' ''It's those Portuguese dogs. They're not content to just plunder our land. They litter it with their steel as well.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The Portuguese treat all they encounter as if it were they own.''
| |
| *'''Elderly noble:''' ''Their blasted "arquebuses." They are a blemish upon this nation's grand tradition of warfare. Rid us of the men terrorizing our peasants with these crude instruments. I can reward you. Handsomely.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I will take care of anyone aiming a teppo at the innocent. Peace is its own reward.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''That is one less teppo wielder inflicting violence and bloodshed on the innocent.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Elderly noble:''' ''Please tell me you've ridden Tamba of all those second-rate, foreign arquebuses.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Tamba now has far fewer bandits wielding teppo. The villagers can rest knowing they are safe.''
| |
| *'''Elderly noble:''' ''Perhaps now they will acknowledge the superiority of Japanese steel and gunpowder, and purchase their teppo from me instead.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You are a teppo dealer?''
| |
| *'''Elderly noble:''' ''At your service. After all, Tamba's worst deserve only the best.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''"Tamba's worst" can no longer purchase your teppo.''
| |
| *'''Elderly noble:''' ''Ah. Hmm... I may have overlooked your zeal for the task.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Tamba is safer because of you. It is good news for the people.''
| |
| *'''Elderly noble:''' ''Here, take this. Just... don't say a word to anyone.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Putting Down Roots==
| |
| ''Yasuke searches for a colorful and personal gift for Ibuki.''
| |
| Yasuke decided to find a gift for Ibuki.
| |
| Yasuke presented Ibuki with blue anemone seeds.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You look well. Like you have settled into life here.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''I must say it is lovely. A rustic sort of charm, but...''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''"But?" You have complaints already?''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Complaint is a terrible, harsh word! My keen and sophisticated eyes have spotted room for improvement, is all.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Should I summon a scribe? How long is this list of improvements?''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Silly. I only mean you could do with a bit more color. More beauty. Something to invite joy into this place. Other than your sparkling wit, I mean. For the moment, I shall retire to the bamboo grove near the stable. A peaceful spot from which to comtemplate the chaos, hmm?''
| |
| Ibuki left, allowing Yasuke a moment of contemplation.
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''More color. Ibuki is right. I could gather flower seeds for them. Blue anemone are their favorite. I will find a vibrant patch of flowers and collect seeds. The brighter the blooms, the better the gift.''
| |
| Yasuke left to find the flowers.
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Remarkable plants to have thrived so well. Even out of season.<br>There! These are the anemone I seek. The most beautiful blooms I have ever seen.''
| |
| He returned to the bamboo grove with the gift.
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Here, for you. A gift of future color and joy. Blue anemone seeds. I had hope to find a brighter, bluer patch. But these were hardy. They will grow well. Wherever you plant them.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''What a thoughtful gift, Yasuke. I don't know what to say.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I am glad to see you happy, my friend.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Now you will never forget me. For every cluster of blue, you will wonder, "Was Ibuki here?"''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I will not forget you.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Past and Present==
| |
| Back in his hometown, Yagoro finally musters the courage to confront his long-time enemy, Akechi Mitsuhisa.
| |
| Naoe decided to travel to Ikuno.
| |
| Yagoro managed to kill Akechi Mitsuhisa, with the support of Naoe.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Town elder:''' ''So the boy wants to save us from the Akechi clan. Why would I stop him from doing that?''
| |
| *'''Elderly woman:''' ''He's not going to save anyone. He'll just get himself killed.''
| |
| *'''Town elder:''' ''He's built himself a concealed blade. I asked how he did that and he went on for an hour.''
| |
| *'''Elderly woman:''' ''Oh dear. The boy is so clumsy, he's going to cut himself on that blade before he even reaches the mines.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yagoro? What are you doing here?''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''I was born here. I come here all the time. And you?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Wherever help is needed is where I will go.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''When I was a boy, I sold myself into bondage to the Akechi to help my mother through the winter. It wasn't enough. The whole village took pity on me, though. They looked after me. I have a whole town of aunties and uncles. I just wish you didn't have to see it, you know... like this.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What happened?''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Some Akechi thugs think they still own us. I have to do something about it. This is why I left to train. To protect my people. This is my mission.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We killed Mitsuhide. His clan are an afterthought.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''They are monsters. They occupied the town years ago. Gave us a pittance and worked everyone bloody. Then, Miss Fubuki inspired us to fight back and reclaim our town. But their leader, Akechi Mitsuhisa... He had his men tire her. Then struck her down in the town center. The pig thinks his castle will protect him. After all this time, I am finally ready to face him. I have to be.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You want to help your people. That's what makes you one of us. As your ally, I will fight at your side. If you'll let me.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''I was hoping you'd say that! I mean, I accept.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Good. I suspect Akechi Mitsuhisa will be in the castle honmaru.''
| |
| [goes to kill him]
| |
| *'''Akechi Mitsuhisa:''' ''[breathes] Who are you? Who sent you?''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''My people sent me! They are under my protection.''
| |
| *'''Mitsuhisa:''' ''I remember you. You're the boy who wouldn't stop bawling when I struck down that demon woman.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''She stood up for us. Inspired us. But you? You are half the warrior she was.''
| |
| *'''Mitsuhisa:''' ''[breathes] We paid the peasants. Even you, if I recall.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''A pittance for back-breaking work! Not even enough to feed my mother! You are just a thug, with hatred in your heart and an army at your back. I have hunted worse than you. And I will continue until my people are safe.''
| |
| *'''Mitsuhisa:''' ''Big words for a small man. [winces] Your people chose poorly.''
| |
| [Yagoro kills him with his hidden blade]
| |
| *'''Mitsuhisa:''' ''[winces]''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That was a hard thing to do, I know. Your people will be grateful for your courage.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''I hope you are right. That is all I ever wanted.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You are doing this for them. Don't forget that.''
| |
| Yagoro bowed.
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Thank you, Miss Naoe. For being there for me. For showing me this path. I will try to make it my own.''
| |
| [he leaves]
| |
|
| |
| ==The Baptism==
| |
| Join Luis Frois for a baptism ceremony in Otsu to learn more about his work as a Jesuit missionary.
| |
| Yasuke meets with Luís Fróis in Otsu.
| |
| Yasuke learned of a plot to attack Father Fróis and the baptismal party of Lady Satoko.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Lady Satoko:''' ''Today is like no other day. Today, I shall be reborn without first dying.''
| |
| *'''Noble:''' ''How did the nanban priest persuade you to convert?''
| |
| *'''Satoko:''' ''Father Frois speaks our language better than my husband. That helps.''
| |
| Yasuke approached Luis Frois.
| |
| *'''Luis Frois:''' ''Greetings!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Hello, Father Frois. Your work proceeds, I see.''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''Indeed! It is a good sign that both the curious and the faithful are here for Lady Satoko... [sighs] in spite of the risks.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Risks?''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''Lady Satoko reports threats against her life, [sighs] but I can offer no more than the protection of our God. Would you speak to her and ensure that she and her family are safe?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yes, I will speak with her.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Shigetoki:''' ''Dearest wife. There have been threats.''
| |
| *'''Satoko:''' ''Threats do not terrify me. I hunt bandits with my teppo!''
| |
| *'''Shigetoki:''' ''Such behavior is also considered unseemly in courtly circles.''
| |
| [Yasuke approaches]
| |
| *'''Satoko:''' ''Ah, the famous Yasuke. Father Frois speaks warmly of you. I am Lady Satoko.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Pleased to meet you. I understand you are here to be baptized.''
| |
| *'''Satoko:''' ''Indeed. Provided my husband's family doesn't intervene. Certain relatives of his do not approve.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Have they threatened to attack the ceremony?''
| |
| *'''Satoko:''' ''I don't know what they have planned. I am possibly slightly worried. Not for myself, of course. But for the others. Now excuse me as I contemplate my impeding salvation.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I need to learn more about this threat of violence to Lady Satoko.''
| |
| [eavesdrops nearby]
| |
| *'''Noble 2:''' ''The next Oda Nobunaga may not be as willing to protect these nanban priests.''
| |
| *'''Noble 3:''' ''We don't need another warlord like that tyrant. We need to rebuild Enryakuji and resist the might of the daimyo!''
| |
| [stops eavesdropping]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''They are not plotting against Lady Satoko.''
| |
| [eavesdrops on another group]
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''I hope Lady Satoko takes her baptism seriously.''
| |
| *'''Jesuit priest:''' ''She does. Her faith is a rock.''
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''Father Frois is a wonder.''
| |
| [stops]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Those two pose no threat to anyone.''
| |
| [eavesdrops on another group]
| |
| *'''Noble 4:''' ''The ronin have been hired.''
| |
| *'''Noble 5:''' ''Good. Send them to the road north after the ceremony. There are too many guards in Otsu.''
| |
| [stops]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I have found the threat. I should warn someone.''
| |
| [goes to frois and satoko]
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''Ah, our friend has returned.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''We need to talk.''
| |
| *'''Satoko:''' ''What's worng?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Father Frois, I must speak with you. Lady Satoko, if you would...''
| |
| *'''Satoko:''' ''Excuse me. I must prepare.''
| |
| After she left, Yasuke turned to Fróis.
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Lady Satoko's family has hired men to ambush you on the road. Once the baptism is complete.''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''Mm. And?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This is concerning. These people hired ronin to attack you.''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''No man wants to die when there is so much yet to learn. But God, I believe, has chosen a different fate for me.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Still, I will travel with you to ensure the group arrives safely home.''
| |
| *'''Frois:''' ''You are a godsend, my friend. But come, the ceremony is about to begin.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Ambush Interrupted==
| |
| An unknown ronin bravely stands alone to defend a village.
| |
| Yasuke meets another freedom fighter.
| |
| Yasuke helped Ibuki defend the peasants, and was invited to another meeting with the ronin at Hijiyama.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Elderly man:''' ''Was that the last of them?''
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''Why can't the daimyo leave us to be?''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Because you are peasants. Nakatomi would squish you like ants before hearing your side. Nakatomi's men are loyal. They will only stop when we stop them.''
| |
| [Yasuke approaches]
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''You. Here? I cannot decide if I should be elated for the help or enraged that it's you.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You know me?''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''I know of you. The foreign-born samurai who made ashes of Iga. Have you come to finish the job you began at Nobunaga's side?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Iga is no longer my enemy. Things change. People change.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''It is true. All is changing, all is ephemeral. Even our enmity.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You have no reason to fear me. My oaths are my own.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''The oaths were the point! Nakatomi might actually listen to an honor-bound samurai. But without a daimyo's power at your back, your presence here is useless.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Useless? I can fight. You need not defend these people alone. Who is it that hunts them?''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Nakatomi. An iron-fisted daimyo who rules a swath of what was once my homeland.''
| |
| The woman cried out nearby.
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''More of Nakatomi's men!''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''If you want to assist, now is your chance. I only hope you are as proficient as the rumors say.''
| |
| [kill all enemies]
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''Traitor!''
| |
| *'''Man:''' ''Theft is theft. Whether gold or a grain of rice!''
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''Rat! People died because of you!''
| |
| *'''Man:''' ''I thought the soldiers would take their due and deliver the rice back to Lord Nakatomi.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You are thieves?''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Not I. Them, perhaps. But how can you judge the helpless? They needed help, so I helped. Living one's ideals can be a messy thing. What would you do, standing in my place?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''If you kill this man, then your justice is the same as Lord Nakatomi's. Prove him wrong with your forgiveness.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Surprising. But a choice I can respect.''
| |
| Ibuki stepped closer to the man.
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Forget Nakatomi. Your allegiance is here, now, with your neighbors. And you will not betray them again.''
| |
| THe others left, leaving Ibuki alone with Yasuke.
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I admire your forgiving nature. But these people did not deny breaking the law. They knew what they were risking.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''So their blood should pay for a sack of rice? I do not see the earthly sense in that. You are a justice-seeker. As am I. Call me Ibuki.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yasuke.''
| |
| They bowed to one another.
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''I know. I used to serve under Nakatomi, years ago. Me and Kyobei. Kyobei was like a brother to me. Until I refused to do Nakatomi's bidding. Then Kyobei himself dumped me in the woods. I was exiled.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You do not seem the type to be dissuaded by others' commands.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''How astute of you. Perhaps you are right. What is the line... "How much longer must I carry this hateful flame?" Maybe it is time for me to return home. If you wish to help me again, meet me near Hijiyama. We can put an end to Nakatomi's wrath.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Back to Reality==
| |
| Tomiko will want to hear news of the missing villagers and League scout's fates.
| |
| Following the battle with the oni, Yasuke returned to Tomiko.
| |
| Yasuke informed Tomiko of what he learned at Akashi.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I do not truly know what I have just seen, but I must tell Tomiko. Tell her something of what happened here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The villagers. Am I... I'm sorry.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''Yasuke, I'm glad to see you return. What news of Akashi?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Nothing of what I saw was good. Some menace had already killed everyone in the village by the time I got there. Most likely our scout too.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''Oh, that's... Everyone? How can that be? Who did this?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''All I can say is I was attacked by... what looked like an Oni.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''An Oni!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It looked like an Oni. I do not know what it was.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''An Oni. Of course, people tell tales of such demons, but to defeat one is a great victory.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I survived it. I cannot say any more than that.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''It is in the nature of such Oni to forever menace us mortals. Survival is a gift.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''There is a chance it may return?''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''Who can know the mind of an Oni?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Well. Whatever may come, we will be ready.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Soup for Sorin==
| |
| Given Naoe's shared familiarity with Master Sorin, Junjiro needs her help to create the perfect recipe for his former mentor.
| |
| Junjiro asks Naoe for help with a soup recipe.
| |
| Naoe helped Junjiro figure out what ingredients might be the best fit for Sorin.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Naoe! I want to practice making a soup for Master Sorin. Something I can cook when we visit him. It has to be special!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Auntie Matsu always said cooking is the language of the heart. Anything you make for Master Sorin will be special.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''I know, but I want it to be perfect! I came to Kii to try shoyu, their famous fermented soy sauce. And I have mochi and daikon already. But I don't know what else to put in the soup. I want it to have meaning.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You want the soup... to have "meaning."''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Master Sorin always talked about the meaning of words and symbols and stuff. If I make a soup with meaning, he'll know I listened!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Hmm. Symbols. Maybe an ingredient that represents Master Sorin's pilgrimage?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Teah! Something brown, like the dirt path! What else, what else?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Something from the sea? To... symbolize the changing tides of life.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''You're good. But remember, Master Sorin doesn't eat anything that has a heart. So no fish! That means you'll need to get two things. Kii's famous shoyu, and one ingredient that's brown and comes from the sea.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'm looking for cooking ingredients.''
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''I sell many goods, miss. Must grown or made right here in Yuasa.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What was it Junjiro wanted? Maybe browsing the wares will help me to remember.''
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''Well?''
| |
| Naoe purchased konbu and shoyu.
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''Please visit again.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Oh! You have the ingredients? You sure? I don't want to start cooking until you have everything.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What? You don't trust me, Junjiro?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Okay, okay. Let's see what you brought.''
| |
| She handed over the shoyu.
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Yatta! You got the shoyu! What else?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I brought konbu. Dried brown kelp. It's color is like the dirt path and it comes from the sea, having weathered many tides.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''That's perfect! Now let's see how it tastes...''
| |
| Junjiro finished the soup and tasted it.
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Mmm! The daikon and mochi in the konbu broth... so good! And the shoyu! Best of all, it's meaningful! I can't wait to make this for Master Sorin.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It's kind of you to think of Master Sorin like this. You have a big heart, Junjiro.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''You think so? Do you think... do you think Yasuke believes that too?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yasuke more than anyone.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Then maybe I'll make some soup for him! But a different soup.''
| |
|
| |
| ==A Blade in the Light==
| |
| Naoe sets out to explore a legacy that will strengthen the bonds between Yagoro and the Assassins.
| |
| Naoe and Yagoro meet outside the Chasuriyama Kofun.
| |
| Naoe presented Yagoro with a Hidden Blade used by the Kakushiba ikki of before.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''I kept thinking back to that "blade made of shadows." The one Haru mentioned. My search brought me here.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I've been in there before. You should go in. I'm sure you'll find something worthwhile in there.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''I think we should go together, Miss Naoe.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Your search brought us here, Yagoro. You deserve to go first.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''If you think so, Miss Naoe. I don't want to trespass.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You don't need anyone's permission to enter. You've earned your place here. Go. I'll be right behind.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Time to follow after Yagoro. Make sure everything's all right.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Oh, good. Yagoro's already here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Miss Naoe, look! A real one!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It's what you wanted all this time. Go on. It won't bite.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''But my training isn't done. I don't think I should have this.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Fubuki wanted someone to continue her work. Without her guidance, it's up to us to figure out what that means. Together. To honor those that came before.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''I... Thank you. I will devote my life to proving worthy of it. Can you do a favor for me? A proper... ceremony? From teacher to apprentice.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We've been over this, Yagoro. You are my ally. Not an apprentice.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Without you and Yasuke, I would still be lurking in the bushes outside bandit camps, daring myself to do something.''
| |
| He bowed to her.
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Please, Miss Naoe. I feel like this requires something... proper.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Fine. Um. Today, a brother joins those of us who work in the shadows to... um, welcome the light.''
| |
| Naoe walked over to the chest containing the Hidden Blade.
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Wearing this blade comes with a promise and a path, fraught with difficulty. Sooner or later, you will lose your way. This blade cannot tell you where to go. It will only answer with more questions. But that is our journey. Trust in the promise you made to yourself and your home, and the path will show itself again. In the name of those who are lost, but whose spirit remains, I entrust this blade to you, Yagoro. Welcome to the Kakushiba ikki.''
| |
| Naoe gave him the chest.
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''I will bring it back to Miss Tomiko's. Place it somewhere for all to see. To remind everyone of those who walked this path before. And to greet those who have yet to walk it.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You're not going to wear it?''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''It's a fine weapon, but... the weight is different from my own. It would affect my balance. I got my real blade a long time ago. The day our paths first crossed.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''How long have you been holding onto that one?''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''As a man of Kakushiba ikki, I must keep my secrets close.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Very good. Let's go, Yagoro.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Pilgrimage==
| |
| Naoe and Junjiro hope to reunite with their old friend Master Sorin.
| |
| Naoe and Junjiro arrive at Kumano Nachi Taisha.
| |
| Naoe and Sorin talked while Junjiro and Yasuke gathered the items needed for the soup.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Master Sorin? Master Sorin!''
| |
| [Naoe approached him]
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Naoe, have you seen Master Sorin? His letter said this was the place, so I know he's got to be around here somewhere.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Take a breath, Junjiro. I'll find him. Maybe I can ask around.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'm looking for an elder monk named Sorin. Have you seen him?''
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''Ah, another pilgrim? There are so many, it is hard to know one from the others. Like ants marching along the trails. Ask someone at the pagoda. If your monk has paid a visit, they'll know.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Buddhist monk:''' ''Greetings, miss. Are you a pilgrim?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No, but I'm trying to find one. An elder monk named Sorin?''
| |
| *'''Buddhist monk:''' ''Ah, Sorin, yes. A funny old man. Kind. Surprisingly stubborn.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I don't think you can get to be his age without a stubborn streak.''
| |
| *'''Buddhist monk:''' ''He refused to stay in the inn or monks' quarters, however much I pushed, preferring instead to camp just downstream of the waterfall. He said, "If I'm to pray for longevity, I might as well do it properly." I'm sure you can find him there.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Have you seen an elderly monk here recently? He's traveling alone, on a pilgrimage.''
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''An elder alone on Kumano's Kodo? Which route? There are many, and some are treacherous without a guide.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'm not sure. He didn't say.''
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''Well, I did see an elderly man, east of that shrine down the hill. There's a forest path leading away from the buildings. His camp was at one of the trails' ends. Maybe he's your monk.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Master Sorin. It has been a long time.''
| |
| *'''Sorin:''' ''Ah. Dear Naoe. So you've found me at last. I knew you would.''
| |
| Junjiro ran in.
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Master Sorin!''
| |
| *'''Sorin:''' ''Junjiro. My dear boy.''
| |
| Yasuke joined the trio, bowing to the monk.
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Is this where you are staying, Master Sorin? It's so dirty and small and... not enough firewood. But I can help! And so can Yasuke!''
| |
| Junjiro led Yasuke away.
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I know now. About Junjiro's father. I don't like it, but... I understand.''
| |
| *'''Sorin:''' ''The weight of the whole truth would have done nothing to help you.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Still. You let me be his friend. When you both knew what I had done.''
| |
| *'''Sorin:''' ''I regret none of it.''
| |
| Junjiro's and Yasuke's laughter reached the pair.
| |
| *'''Sorin:''' ''And neither does he, I'd say.''
| |
| They turn to the waterfall.
| |
| *'''Sorin:''' ''Nachi Falls. Beautiful, isn't it? It's said to be the home of a kami, a native incarnation of a Buddha. Hiryu Gongen. It is a lovely reminder that all manner of things can coexist if one has an open mind.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''How did you know it would work? Putting Junjiro and me together.''
| |
| *'''Sorin:''' ''The soul has a shape. Edges, angles. You can see when two people fit.. When they will be... better together. Life is miraculous. I leave the boy with you at a farm and now here you are, in the company of an... unusual samurai.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yasuke is a good warrior and a better man. I can think of few others who I'd like in Junjiro' life. Is the journey long? The one you're on?''
| |
| *'''Sorin:''' ''Indeed. The Saigoku Kannon pilgrimage is quite long. And I've barely begun. Only circled around to its proper beginning.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You're brave, Master Sorin. To attempt a trek of this magnitude, at your age.''
| |
| *'''Sorin:''' ''I will go as far as my legs can carry me. But the whisper of worry in your voice warms this old man's heart.''
| |
| Junjiro and Yasuke returned with firewood.
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''I'll collect water next to make soup! I've been practicing and I came up with something really special.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Oh, you will collect it, will you?''
| |
| *'''Sorin:''' ''I look forward to it.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Works of Luis Frois==
| |
| A chance encounter with Luis Frois at a Jesuit Mission turns into an opportunity to help and old friend.
| |
| Yasuke finds an old acquaintance at a Jesuit mission.
| |
| Yasuke helped Father Fróis recover the missing pages of his notes.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''That sounds like Father Frois.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''Father Frois runs this mission with passion!''
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''Yes, even his papers dance in the wind.''
| |
|
| |
| *'''Jesuit Priest:''' ''Father Frois. We will find your notes.''
| |
| *'''Luís Fróis:''' ''My book is lost without them!''
| |
| *'''Priest:''' ''We are searching everywhere.''
| |
| Yasuke and Naoe approached.
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Father Frois! So it is you.''
| |
| *'''Fróis:''' ''Yasuke, my friend! Look at you now. Famous throughout the land.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I walk my own path now, with my own purpose. And new friends. Naoe, I would like you to meet Father Frois.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I've never met a nanban priest before. What is your mission here?''
| |
| *'''Fróis:''' ''We provide medicine and teaching. And I am working on a treatise about these lands for outsiders. But my notes are missing.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Father Frois was the first to show me kindness among the Jesuits. Allow us to repay that favor.''
| |
| [play as yasuke]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I will find your notes, Father Frois.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Portuguese Trader:''' ''Father Frois's notes must be somewhere. Let us check around the tombstones.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''You stole that paper from the mission.''
| |
| *'''Child:''' ''No, mother, the wind stole it! I was going to take it back to Father Frois.''
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''Foolish child. This paper is valuable. Give it back!''
| |
| [Yasuke approaches]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Excuse me. Have you found any papers around the mission?''
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''No, no. We are an honest family and would not take something that is not ours.''
| |
| *'''Child:''' ''But mother, I did find-''
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''Shh! Theft is punishable by death!''
| |
| *'''Child:''' ''Please! We have done nothing wrong.''
| |
| Yasuke kneeled down to match the child's height.
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Father Frois would never allow that to happen. He just wants his note.''
| |
| *'''Child:''' ''Thank you, sir. Here it is.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Thank you. Father Frois will be very happy to recover his work.''
| |
| *'''Woman:''' ''Thank you. Thank you so much.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''There... That is it!''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=A Note on Japanese Clothing|Text=In Portugal we wear our fine clothing all year round, whereas in Japan they change their garments three times per year.<br><br>In summer, they wear a light robe called a katabira without a lining. In autumn, they shift to the aki-awase, a two-layered kimono to keep out the brisk weather, and then add stuffing for even more warmth. This is called a fuyu-kimono and is worn throughout winter.<br><br>These extra layers and stuffing are removed in spring, and the cycle begins anew.}}
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Fieldworker 1:''' ''There's a little girl down by the river, crying because she can't swim.''
| |
| *'''Fieldworker 2:''' ''Shameful. When I was a child, I swam across Lake Biwa every day.''
| |
| *'''Fieldworker 1:''' ''When you were a child, you talked even more than you do now.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Have you seen a paper note from the mission?''
| |
| *'''Child:''' ''Maybe.'' [sniffs] ''But it's in the river now. And I can't swim!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Ah, but I can. Dry your eyes, and watch a mighty samurai swim!''
| |
| *'''Child:''' ''Thank you, sir.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=A Note on Dueling Scars|Text=In Europe, we think of scars as dreadful disfigurements, but in Japan, they are worn as marks of distinction.}}
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Two down. Now to find the third note.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''A good climb.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=A Note on Bows and Arrows|Text=The Japanese make their bows and arrows from bamboo cane. Their bows are much larger in size than ours. Japanese archers shout loudly when loosing their arrows, whereas our archers shoot in complete silence.}}
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I found all three notes. Now to bring them back to Father Frois.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Father Frois, we have found your notes. With a little help from some children.''
| |
| *'''Fróis:''' ''Children?'' [chuckles warmly] ''Delightful, simply delightful! "And Jesus said to them, Suffer the little children, and forbid them not to come to me." Regardless of who found the notes, the mission owes you a debt of gratitude.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You said these notes are for a book.''
| |
| *'''Fróis:''' ''Yes. My book helps newly arrived Jesuits learn about this land. Here, listen to my entry on Azuchi Castle. "Lord Nobunaga's majestic castle stands on a hill in the center of the city. In grandeur, it is on par with the palaces of Europe." It goes on like that for several pages.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A big castle for an ever bigger ego.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I learned a great deal in that castle. Things I will never forget.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Europe is far away. Are the lords of the castles there as cruel as our daimyo?''
| |
| *'''Fróis:''' ''Perhaps... If you want to learn more about our ways, meet me in Otsu. We are conducting a baptism.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I've never seen a baptism. Thank you, Father Frois.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Vision of the Realms==
| |
| Unusual disappearances have been reported in a small fishing village - one of the League's own scouts among them.
| |
| Tomiko asked for help in locating a missing scout.
| |
| Following the investigation of Akashi, Yasuke and Naoe find themselves seemingly transported elsewhere.
| |
|
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What is it, Tomiko?''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''One of our people... There has been no sign of them for days.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Is this unusual? Where were they when you last heard from them?''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''Akashi. And you are right, it would not be concerning if not for their last message.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Go on...''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''They spoke of missing villagers. A strange presence. I fear our agent may have fallen victim to the same fate.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I will go there and see what I can find.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''Be careful. Something feels very wrong about this.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Where is everyone?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Oh, the smell.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=A Mysterious Drawing|Text=This drawing depicts a red cross in front of a lone tree by a dock, with a menacing demon lurking nearby.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This is not a drawing done for pleasure.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A diary might have noted some recent occurrences.''
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=A Fisherman's Diary|Text=Juro's mouth was already spilling black when we reached him.<br><br>His fear-crazed eyes regarded the statue he had pulled ashore, as though it were a demon. He was soon dead, but well before that, Taro and I began to feel unwell. We decided we must destroy it.<br><br>It is indestructible. Impervious to flame, unyielding to hammer blows. We buried it under oak wood and charcoal, yet a full day in that furnace yielded no effect upon it.<br><br>Finally, several of the men dragged it to the seaward tree, for Taro and I could hardly walk.<br><br>None shall approach the place from this time forward.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A strange statue caught in a fisherman's net. The villager called it evil, blamed it for the disappearances.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Not a place for a book of this quality.''
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Tale of the Oni Samurai|Text=Though written accounts have been lost, it is very well known to the people of the region that Renjiro Yamaoka had, in all respects, discharged his duty with honor and outstanding skill.<br><br>Yet a true accounting of his exploits in service to his master has been corrupted by the legions of lesser men who profited from the hysteria wrought by his son Kazan. Though a thousand mouths have spoken words claiming their veracity, it is my aim to make the truest telling of the tale of Kazan Yamaoka.<br><br>Despite a tenuous calm that had settled in many populated parts, petty chaos continued to ravage the countryside in the region surrounding the Yamaoka lands. Thieves went unpunished and wastrels masqueraded as samurai, killing for pleasure. The old samurai, Renjiro Yamaoka, lamented the fall of his noble class. It angered him not only that the land was unsafe, but that his age prevented him from taking up his katana to defend the honor of the samurai and bring about peace.<br><br>This anger was shared by, and burned even more intensely in the heart of, his son Kazan, who longed to prove himself to his father. He wanted to restore the standing of the samurai, tarnished by the worthless men for whom honor meant nothing.<br><br>It is unknown if any outrage in particular spurred Kazan to action, but a day came when he took up his father's sword and set out to make the world right in his eyes. One after another, many men fell beneath his blade. As his toll grew, so did his viciousness. His killings took on an aspect of macabre cruelty and humiliation, as if he intended a greater warning to others with each subsequent outrage. Rumors of an avenging Oni stalking the land spread amongst the country folk.<br><br>Ast eh rain pelted his gore-encrusted armor one night, a lone samurai stepped out into his path. Kazan could see this was no imposter. Here was a true samurai. He called out to the stranger, "You are not my enemy. The honor of the samurai is a duty we share." His words seemed to assuage the stranger, as his stance softened slightly, but he quickly regained his resolve and raised his katana (sword) with intent. "You share no honor of mine." He replied, somewhat shakily to Kazan’s ear. They engaged. And though for a time Kazan felt he may indeed have more trouble than expected, he ultimately prevailed.<br><br>Yet the downed samurai would not relent. He could not stand, but still he raised his katana (sword) and spat blood. Kazan pushed the katana (sword) away and bent to remove the samurai’s helmet, intending to deliver a killing blow, only to recognize the face of his own father. It was then that the elderly samurai delivered a killing blow to himself, with a look of savage disgust.<br><br>Kazan, rent to his core with shame and fury, roared to the sky over the corpse of his disapproving father. When at last his breath was exhausted, he opened his blood-reddened eyes, and they were no longer the eyes of Kazan Yamaoka.<br><br>Before he could get to his feed, half a dozen harvesting forks pierced his heart. Accompanied by the searing pain, he heard the shouts of the men of his own village. Men he grew up with worked the fields with, drank sake with; they were the ones to honor his father by taking his life and ending Kazan’s merciless campaign of blood.<br><br>Soon, those closed to the warm stench of slaughter began to choke on a black mist far fouler than a hundred rotting corpses. Despite the frenzy, the mob’s carnage gave way to the thickening smoke, and they receded to reveal that Kazan was gone, seemingly dispersed into the wind along with the black fumes.<br><br>These are events to which I cannot attest but which conform most consistently to the accounts of the ones purporting to know. The similarities I offer as my best efforts of corroboration. None my know what truly transpired.<br><br>Talk of him still mingles on the sake-loosened tongues of farm-folk in many quarters. Some claim Kazan has since been disfigured by rage and unearthly malevolence. None have seen him and lived it seems, for each account is preceded by "I hear…" None can be trusted.<br><br>Be wary upon your travels,<br><br>H. L.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The story of a killer taken harshly by death and put to an even darker purpose. The Oni.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Fitting. The ground here has been recently turned.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Look at this thing. No wonder they tried to bury it.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What is this? What's happening?'' [yelps]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This place. Where am I?''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Overlap==
| |
| ???
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke must find a way out of this nightmare.
| |
| After an altercation with the oni, Naoe and Yasuke find themselves back at Akashi.
| |
|
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Cannot Get Out|Text=None of this is real. I have to wake up. Why can't I wake up?<br><br>I found a red gate. I swear I saw daylight beyond it, but it's locked. Five seals hold it shut, each tied to a totem.<br><br>I tried everything, but only a mantra worked. When I canted it, the totem started to crack. But in the panic, I stumbled on my words and something awoke.<br><br>A monster. I ran, I fought, I bled. Nothing stopped it. I tried everything: shuriken, kunai, even a katana strike.<br><br>If you find this, know that the totems can be destroyed. That must be the way out. I will try again to destroy the one in front of the gate.<br><br>Please, prove me right.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The villagers. Something murdered them as they were trying to escape. I must find a way to unlock this gate.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This totem removed the seal from the gate!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''If I cannot hurt it, better to keep my distance.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Another seal gone.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''One left...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Done! Now to leave this place.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A way out!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I think I made it!''
| |
| []
| |
| [play as yasuke]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I am back!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It seems I did not return alone.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It is vulnerable here!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The rules have changed! You're my world now! Let us finish this..''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''The Oni:''' [groans]
| |
| []
| |
|
| |
| ==Path and Purpose==
| |
| Back in his hometown to recover, Yagoro beings a journey to discover his purpose in life.
| |
| Naoe visits Yagoro at Ikuno.
| |
| Naoe helped Yagoro save the little girl trapped in a bandit stronghold.
| |
|
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Elderly man:''' ''I knew Yagoro would grow up to be a fine young man. He and his mysterious friends rid us of that Akechi bully.''
| |
| *'''Elderly woman:''' ''Remember the day he was born? He was such an ugly baby!''
| |
| *'''Elderly man:''' ''I remember. He looked like a wet, hairless weasel.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It's good to see you among your people.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''They still need my help. I should have introduced you to everyone.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It's all right. They must have missed you.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''They have an odd way of showing it. It's just "Yagoro, go chop some wood." Or, "where did you learn to cut fruit?!"''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Fresh fruit is a new unknown adversary. Are you sure you're up to this?''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' [laughs] ''You joke, but... seeing their smiles, it spreads this... warmth in my chest. I don't regret killing Mitsuhisa, but I don't know how else to help my people.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You are here for them. That's all there is to it, really. That's what helping means.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''I suppose you are right. I hope what I do honors us all.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You have not strayed from your path, Yagoro. Do not doubt yourself.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Thank you. And speaking of which, I am needed elsewhere. Say, why don't you come along? You can hear all the nice things they say about me.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Town elder:''' ''Look at you, Yagoro! Feels like only yesterday when you would wet a fresh kosode daily.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Well. I'm glad I followed along.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Aw, come on.''
| |
| *'''Town elder:''' ''I'm teasing, young man. We know what you did for us.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''How are you doing? How's the town?''
| |
| *'''Town elder:''' ''The Akechi brutes are gone, but now bandits take their place. No matter. There will always be men like them.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Man:''' ''There you are, Yagoro! Wanted to thank you for helping to deliver the puppies. You should take one home!''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Keep it. It'll remind you of me. I'm just glad they're healthy.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Torabo:''' ''Yagoro nii-chan! You're here! With your... follower?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Something like that.''
| |
| *'''Torabo:''' ''Oh, then you can help Haru, too. I think she's in trouble.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Tell me. What did your friend do this time?''
| |
| *'''Torabo:''' ''When those bandits showed up, we had a contest to see who could be as brave as you! We heard about a treasure, and I said it was just a story, but Haru said it was true. So she went into the mine to prove it. ''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''I am sure she's safe. But no more silly contests. Promise?''
| |
| *'''Torabo:''' ''Promise.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Let's go find her.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Haru:''' ''Someone? Anyone? Please!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Haru:''' ''Oh! Yagoro nii-chan? You found me!''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''Haru? Why did you come here alone? Looking for treasure?''
| |
| *'''Haru:''' ''Not just any treasure! A special weapon. I was going to wear it and kill the bandits one by one! But then I got scared of the bandits, and I don't like blood, and... I didn't know how to leave.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''You can't take on bandits on your own, Haru! This place is dangerous.''
| |
| *'''Haru:''' ''These men just take our silver. And we let them because they're bigger and they have swords.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''If you want to help people, listen to them. You think I look strong, but I am held up by my friends and my cause to protect my people. My commitment to them is stronger than any weapon.''
| |
| *'''Haru:''' ''If you say so, Yagoro nii-chan.''
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''And no more running down dark tunnels looking for mysterious weapons, young lady.''
| |
| *'''Haru:''' ''It was probably make-believe, anyway. A blade made of shadows, here in Tamba?'' [giggles]
| |
| *'''Yagoro:''' ''What a silly story. Come on, Haru. Lets get you home.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''"A blade made of shadows..." Sounds like the Kakushiba ikki. It could be related to that place we found.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Painting Memories==
| |
| Junjiro would have liked to see Awaji. Paintings of the island will help satisfy his curiosity.
| |
| Naoe vows to bring Junjiro something of Awaji.
| |
| Junjiro gifts Naoe with a sumi-e of their little found family in thanks for giving him views of Awaji.
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Can I ask you something?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Of course. What is it about?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Well... I know you're busy... I don't want to annoy you...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Come now, what is the matter?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''It's just... You've been to Awaji. Everyone says it is so beautiful. I wish I could go.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''But you must stay here and look after everyone. And I promise, I will bring you something back.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''A puppet! No, no, no... they're too expensive. But thank you. I'll look after everyone!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Eshima looks incredible from this angle.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Got it! I can't wait to bring this back to Junjiro.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This shrine would make for a fine sumi-e. I should get closer.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This shrine looks stunning from this viewpoint.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Perfect! I can't wait to bring this back to Junjiro.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The Naruto whirlpool looks brethtaking from here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Got it! There, that is enough. I should give these to Junjiro, see if my technique has improved!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I have something for you.''
| |
| Naoe handed him the paintings she had made.
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''These are beautiful! Now I just need to find somewhere to keep them... And look, I made you a sumi-e too!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [laughs] ''Junjiro! You remain the master of the sumi-e. Thank you.''
| |
|
| |
| ==War Horse==
| |
| After the changing of seasons, Rin has invited Yasuke to visit her.
| |
| Yasuke received an invitation from Rin.
| |
| Rin adopted a horse and took her first riding lessons.
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Yasuke! I'm glad you're here.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Is everything all right?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Well, there is a horse in the forest. I think it escaped from battle. I tried to approach, but it ran off. And I could use a horse around here, you know.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Show me where you last saw the horse. We will make sure it is all right.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Follow me! I'll tell you when we are close.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It may be best to approach the horse in silence. Until we are in position.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Then silence you should have. As hard as it is for me at times. Come!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This is where I saw it. It drank from the stream. I think I see it. Come on!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Over there, Yasuke. Look!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This horse has seen better days. Approach slowly, but with confidence. Show it you are in control.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''There, there. All is well. You're safe. Poor thing. Out here alone.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''We will take it to your hut. No sense in you both being alone.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''I've never looked after horses before. We could never afford to keep one. I've never even ridden one.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I grew up riding horses. Judging by its coat, this horse was cared for. It is accustomed to being ridden. Try. I will be with you.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Just... don't let me fall. Stay close! Here goes nothing...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''I'm doing it!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You are doing great! See? Nothing to fear.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Ah! It's okay, it's okay! Calm down!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Steady... steady. You are all right. You are safe.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Which of us are you speaking to?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Both, I suppose. Come. We are not far.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''And once again, I'm very glad you are here, Yasuke.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''And I'm very glad you managed to stay on the horse. when I was learning, I cannot tell you how many times I fell on my... ah... that I fell. Once it gets to know you, the horse will be as calming a presence as you are to me.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''This brings something very important to my attention. About you. About me.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''And what is that?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''That we really need... a name for this horse.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Agreed. Let us get our new friend back to the hut first. And slowly, yes?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''You are speaking to the horse again, aren't you.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''A wise man knows when to say nothing.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''How about we take a short ride? Put you and this horse through its paces a little?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Just... not too fast, yes? We don't want to scare the horse away again.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You will both be fine. I will lead the way.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Where exactly are you taking me?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Worry less about the destination, focus on the journey. Feel the breeze and enjoy yourself.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Easy for you to say when you were born in the saddle!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The best advice I was told was to simply believe you can do it.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''That - whoa - explains a lot.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Stop thinking of her as an animal, and as a friend instead. Right now, she's just as worried as you.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''This time, I am certain you are speaking to the horse.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''We are nearly there.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Here we are.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Well? Did you enjoy your first ride?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''My first ride? No. But this second one was quite exciting. The view was more than worth it.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The... waterfall?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''That too.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Waterfalls soothe me. I do not know if it is the noise, or the flow... It calms me. Do you think you will master horse riding?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Well, my teacher is unorthodox. But yes. In time. We only have each other, after all. We need time to practice and grow accustomed to one another.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Are you talking about the horse or your "unorthodox teacher?"''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''I will leave that to your imagination, sensei.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Now that you are this horse's new owner, practice daily. I know you'll be an excellent rider within weeks. ''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Not within days? Yasuke, how little you know me. All the same, I will practice. There is little else to occupy me.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Next time I see you, not only will you be a master rider, this stray horse will have a name.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''"Stray?" No, this horse has a home now. I will keep Ite fed, and build her a shelter.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Ite... "Archer?" A fine name for a horse.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''I wanted to name her after something you taught me. Come back when you can, Yasuke.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Let the horse know where you want to go-''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Uh, over there!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''- by looking at where you want to go.'' [laughs]
| |
|
| |
| ==Sweet Lies==
| |
| There is a rumor in Wakasa about a strange girl who wreaks havoc on the lives and stomachs of others.
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke intervene when they see a young woman being threatened by a band of thugs.
| |
| Yasuke and Naoe agree that further investigation on Oni-yuri is necessary.
| |
|
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What happened?''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''After our usual meal, our insides howled and churned like the wind in a storm. He can barely move. She poisoned us!''
| |
| *'''Oni-yuri:''' ''Do not blame your weak little stomachs on me.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''There must be a reason you blame her.''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''Have you not heard the rumors? Oni-yuri, the lone flower. A strange girl living in an abandoned hamlet. She was caught trying to escape from the kitchen. It is plain that she's the cause of this!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''That does cast some doubt onto her innocence.''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''That's not all. She's rotten, like her father. We used to work with him, the cheating bastard.''
| |
| *'''Oni-yuri:''' ''My father cannot be blamed when you do not know the prices on the market.''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''He's gone now, hah. An ending deserving of a dog-faced pirate.'' [spits]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Your father was a pirate?''
| |
| *'''Oni-yuri:''' ''Mmm. My father was not a pirate. How could you accuse a poor, defenseless orphan like me?''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''Orphan or not, nothing matters when you lie.''
| |
| *'''Oni-yuri:''' ''Mmm. Big sister, they wound me. I was merely trying to find scraps in their revolting kitchen. Please, help prove my innocence.''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''No, we deal with you now. Punish her!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Do not touch her. Not until we know the truth.''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''Do what you want, but we will hold her here until you return. We had our meal there, at the room down the road.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We'll be back.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The girl seems... unpredictable. Are you sure she's telling the truth?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''She is quick with words and stands her ground. An interesting one.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''And what if she did poison that man?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That is what we will find out.''
| |
| [Play as Naoe]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The kitchen should have the answers we seek.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I will look around for clues.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I should start looking where the men had their meal.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I need to take a closer look.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The broth bowls are empty. They drank it all.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I should check the kitchen where the broth was prepared.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Ugh, the stench. Like a village dung heap.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Ugh, these radishes are rotten. Some are missing. Would anyone eat these?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This broth was tampered with. Could this be what made the men sick?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Purple powder... ground from aconite flowers. Best not to touch. But what is it doing here?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I found everything I need.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Elderly Woman:''' ''I clean when I want to. Nobody comes in my kitchen - they're too busy putting food in their mouths. If you are done intruding, please leave. I have radishes to chop.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''Should have never started working with pirates.''<!- Note: Subtitles have this speaker as "Man" but it's the same thug as the start.--
| |
| *'''Oni-yuri:''' ''I'm surprised anyone wanted to work with you.''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''You will be exposed, poisonous rat.''
| |
| *'''Oni-yuri:''' ''Do you speak to your wife with that mouth? Oh, I forgot. She left you.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''So, what did you find?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Only that the broth you ate did not look right.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It might have been tampered with.''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''Brat, you have been caught! You snuck something into our food, didn't you? Admit it.''
| |
| *'''Oni-yuri:''' ''That kitchen is filthy. The vegetables are rotten, and the stench is disgusting. This is not my fault.''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''Don't trust the words of a pirate's daughter. She poisoned us!''
| |
| *'''Oni-yuri:''' ''Stop bringing my father into this!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Oni-yuri is not to blame. The vegetables you ate reek of rot. And your kitchen is disgusting.''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''Horseshit! It is very clean.''
| |
| *'''Oni-yuri:''' ''As clean as your outhouse. Are you done with your foolishness? I have better things to do. Thank you, big sister, samurai. You've been a big help to me. But our paths end here. Goodbye!''
| |
| *'''Thug:''' ''You will not escape, lying rat. Get her!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''There is something odd about Oni-yuri. She acts too sweet, too innocent. The vegetables were rotten, but what about the powder? What if she really did poison the men?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Even if she did poison them, she did not kill. Only caused mild discomfort. Maybe these men wronged her, somehow. Or her father.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The possible pirate. We need to know more before we decide whether to trust her. And before she inflicts mild discomfort on somebody else.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Let us look into Oni Yuri's past.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'll get started.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Oni-yuri... what are you hiding?''
| |
|
| |
| ==Go With the Bo==
| |
| Junjiro is excited about an upcoming event he would like to attend.
| |
| Junjiro asks Naoe to accompany him to meet with the famous bo master Meiran.
| |
| Naoe helped Meiran deal with the bandits that had been tracking him.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Over here!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Will you come with me to Makinoodera Temple? Meiran, the famous bo master, will be visiting, and... well, I want to learn more about his teachings.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You want to learn the art of the bo?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Meiran is the ultimate warrior! He can take on a hundred soldiers with just his bo staff!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''One hundred soldiers?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''I mean, you're great too. But the bo is... I don't know. Pure.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It sounds like this Meiran might be telling tales to inflate his reputation. Perhaps we should pay him a visit to make sure he's not taking advantage of innocent people.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''All right then! Let's go! Maybe he'll even do a sumi-e for us!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yes, let us go.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''I left a message for Yasuke to meet us at the temple.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''You're going too slow. We're going to be late and miss out on all the fun!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Imagine what it would be like to know bojutsu. Auntie Tomiko wouldn't be able to boss me around anymore!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I remember what it was like to daydream... Then I was forced to wake up.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Daydreams only happen when you're awake, Naoe.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''And if this daydream of yours was real? If you're going to learn to use it, you will treat it with respect.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Fine. I will.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''I wonder if these pilgrims are also heading to the temple?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I would imagine so.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Monk:''' ''You, please, stop a moment!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Monk:''' ''Thank you for stopping.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What is wrong? You seem troubled.''
| |
| *'''Monk:''' ''It is my mentor, Meiran. He is missing.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Missing?''
| |
| *'''Monk:''' ''He is to give a lesson at the temple. Very shortly. No Meiran, no lesson.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This is unfortunate news...''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''We can't just give up. We've got to find him!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''These woods are not safe. They are full of desperate outlaws. The most savage kind. Head to the temple. Go with this monk. In the meantime, I will find Meiran and bring him to where he needs to be.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Is this Meiran's horse? It seems unharmed, though weary.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Meiran's Diary|Text=These bandits have been after me since I passed Katano Foothills.<br><br>Told them I didn't want to fight, they attacked me anyway. Now my body is tired, as is my spirit. I have to stop. I need rest.<br><br>I hear there's a beautiful viewpoint at Teratsutsuki Den. Perhaps a place to paint a sumi-e. Center myself.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Teratsutsuki Den is up ahead. Is that where he is?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This rise leads to Kawachi Heights.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Meiran:''' ''Hello there.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Are you Meiran?''
| |
| *'''Meiran:''' ''Guilty, yes.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Your disciple feared you were waylaid by bandits.''
| |
| *'''Meiran:''' ''Oh yes! A fearsome group have been harassing me and my poor horse.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'm afraid I might have interrupted his rest. But you mentioned bandits...''
| |
| *'''Meiran:''' ''Hmm.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''So, the great Meiran fled from a few bandits.''
| |
| *'''Meiran:''' ''Have you ever gazed upon a leaf floating down a stream? It does not fight the current, it goes with the flow.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''By running away, you were going with the flow?''
| |
| *'''Meiran:''' ''For the sake of the bandits.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Well, people are waiting on you at the temple.''
| |
| *'''Meiran:''' ''Oh, but I can't go yet! I'm not finished! Barely started, in fact.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Finished what?''
| |
| *'''Meiran:''' ''My sumi-e! I found such a beautiful vista, I just had to paint it. But, curse my old bones. I have barely begun and already the cramping set in.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Indeed, it appears you have not even prepared your parchment. Very well. Let us see if we cannot find a better viewpoint. Let's go.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Need to find the right spot.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Bandits? I have to stop them!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I should continue with caution.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Meiran:''' ''That spot may offer a fine vantage point.''
| |
| Naoe
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Got it! It is done, and yes, I do feel better. Now, let us head to the temple.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Not Alone in this World==
| |
| Yasuke must rescue Naoe by finding a way into Sumoto Castle.
| |
| Recently arrived at Awaji, Yasuke meets with Hanzo's contact, Konatsu.
| |
| Yasuke infiltrated Sumoto Castle.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''Hattori Hanzo said that you can use this safehouse as your own for as long as you might need.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You can pass on my thanks, Konatsu. Now, he said that Naoe is being held within Sumoto Castle.''
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''By Kimura Yukari and her taisho. The locals call them the Sanzoku Ippa, and they have their claws dug deep into Awaji.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Their claws will not hold my friend for long.''
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''I have given you what you need to find a way under Sumoto Castle's walls. It is a secret path, but be wary - it holds its own dangers.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Usually I just charge in through the front gate, but I will keep this option in mind.''
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''Whichever route you choose, I wish you well.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Hold on Naoe, I am coming.''
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Secret Passage Directions|Text=Get to Sumoto Castle. Follow these directions precisely and they will see you inside.<br.<br>Follow the trail southeast to Sumoto Town.<br>At the twisted tree, look to the right.<br>Near the top of the winding path, there is a collapsed entrance.}}
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Helpful Citizen:''' ''You! Come! Come to me! Ah, new to Awaji, are you? Perhaps you need some help?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I am looking for a young woman from the mainland, who recently arrived.''
| |
| *'''Helpful Citizen:''' ''I know the one. Come, let us speak in private on this matter.''
| |
| [lead the way]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Thank you, I will follow you.''
| |
| *'''Helpful Citizen:''' ''This way, please. Let us find a quieter place where we can talk more openly.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Your knowledge is appreciated, though your eagerness to share it strikes me as unusual.''
| |
| *'''Helpful Citizen:''' [laughs] ''My intentions are as clear as spring water.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Clear waters can run deep with unseen currents. If your aim is to mislead me, know that it will not go well for you.''
| |
| *'''Helpful Citizen:''' ''Fear not, your questions will soon find their answers.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Where are you taking me?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Disguised Servant 1:''' ''Now you will learn fear!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Disguised Servant 2:''' ''You do not belong on this island!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Senseless.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Kill the Samurai|Text=My dearest cherry blossom,<br><br>You continue to amaze. The rumours you spread of our... special guest led our quarry right into our trap. Magnificent work.<br><br>Now I have a new task. A man will arrive soon, a black man dressed in armor. You will make sure he does not leave Sumoto.<br><br>Make me proud.<br><br>Y.}}
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''They know I'm here. I can trust no one.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The path Konatsu mentioned should be nearby.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This must be the entrance to the hidden path.''
| |
|
| |
| ==A Critical Encounter==
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke offer to help Rufino in his mission to take down a sinister, secretive organization.
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke encounter an intruder at Tomiko's homestead.
| |
| Yasuke and Naoe uncover a Templar plot to destabilize the local communities.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Who is that? Someone hiding.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''What has happened here?''<!-For this and the following two lines, Rufino is marked as "Intruder". For better flow, he's correctly named on all lines--
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Before you say anything, I wasn't lurking.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Not very well, no.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''This place was a farmstead once. Now it seems she has taken to adopting strays.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You have been here before.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''He has. A long time ago.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Tomiko. Are you going to introduce me?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''If you are a friend of Tomiko's, then you are welcome here.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Best tell them who I am, Tomiko, assuming you remember.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''I told you once of a battle that turned these fields to ash. Rufino here and his companions are the only reason I did not suffer the same fate. He saved both me and Heiji.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Little Heiji? Is he well?''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''Not so little anymore.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''So, Rufino? Why are you here?''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''I need... people I can trust.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''I trust these two with my life. This is Fujibayashi Naoe. And he goes by Yasuke.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Just Yasuke? I don't meet many foreigners who bear Japanese names.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Adaptation means survival... for a stray.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''In a strange land, all strays are brothers.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Come, you can tell us your tale as we share sake.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''My sake?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''I was born in Portugal, brought to these islands on the winds of greed and then abandoned on the streets. I was just a child. But eventually I found a friend. Ermigo. Together we made this place our home.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''So? What trouble have you stirred up that you feel the need to call in a life debt?''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' [sighs] ''Ermigo and I have been working for the Portuguese. Translating, mostly. But when one of our contacts turned up dead, I investigated. I discovered that someone - a group I think - is plotting to kill locals and replace them with strangers. And their targets aren't daimyo or taxmen. They are just kindly merchants, wise fishermen, generous cooks.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Why target such people?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What better way to kill a community than to cut out its heart?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''So, we stop them. How?''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''They have a ship. The group's research on potential targets is there - names, locations... If we destroy their research...''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''They cannot kill those they cannot find.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''I would be deeply in your debt if you were to help these people.''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''No debt required. These two will help.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tomiko!''
| |
| *'''Tomiko:''' ''They'll help or I'll kick them out. Let's see how much of my sake you give away when you're sleeping with wild pigs. Now, go. It sounds like you have a ship to find.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''She hasn't changed.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That's one cache down.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Another destroyed.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Done. I should find Rufino. He said he'd meet me here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Uh, a little help, shinobi?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What is that?''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''We destroyed their research, but some of the kill contracts have already gone out. I should have acted more quickly.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''So this... makes sense to you?''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''These people communicate in code, shield themselves with monikers. This list... civilian targets. It says proof of kills are shown to an overseer? And then they report to... "The Architect."''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''How do you know their code?''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Early in my investigation, I found a cipher. I just hadn't seen the other side of it.''
| |
| []
| |
| Yasuke
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This symbol. There is no mistaking it. It is not part of their code.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''The cross in red? Yes, I... think it's meant to reference their leader. Are you familiar?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The Templar Order.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yasuke...''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [sighs]
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Who are they?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Schemers. Murderers. A rot that must be burned out wherever it takes hold.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Then that's what we'll do. Cut our way through the killers, find their overseers, and track down this "Architect."''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''But you'll save the civilians first, yes?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Your heart is in the right place. Of course - innocents first. But then... this "Architect" and everyone associated with him will pay.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''All right. Meet me at Tomiko's if you find anything.''
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Contractor's Kill Assignment|Text=Contractor,<br><br>When you are done witht the ferryman, bring his bloodied sash to me at the bamboo cutting camp as proof of death. You may do what you like with the corpse, but I might suggest leaving it as food for the fish.<br><br> - The Builder}}
| |
|
| |
| ==Man Behind the Curtain==
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke are on the hunt for the Architect.
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke set out to the Templar meeting at the place Rufino mentioned.
| |
| Following a confrontation with "The Architect" that led to the loss of his friend Ermigo, Rufino agreed to join the Kakushiba ikki.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This is the place Rufino mentioned, I'm sure of it. But this can't be right. I'll use the messages he decoded earlier to read this one for myself.''
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=True Decoded Message|Text=(Selected phrases, now correctly translated from the combined overseer's messages:)<br><br>Continued meddling of that traitor Rufino<br>Must meet and make plan<br>Eliminate him before further disrupt<br>Must meet face to face<br>Ibu Highland<br>Kashiwabara<br>Fortress<br>Scholar will be there to answer for involvement<br><br>- The Architect}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Rufino is a liar. But why? I'll confront them all. Then I'll have my answers and their blood.''
| |
| []
| |
|
| |
| *'''Ermigo:''' ''I understand your frustration, but you're being shortsighted.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''You lied to me. You used me!''
| |
| *'''Ermigo:''' ''A necessity that broke my heart, each and every day.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''This isn't you, Ermigo. This can't be you. Leave them, I beg you. I've done all I could to hold back the tide, but I can't protect you forever!''
| |
| *'''Ermigo:''' ''I'm the one attempting to protect you. But you have to do as I say.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''I brought you those names in good faith, but you made me a murderer!''
| |
| *'''Ermigo:''' ''That is the price of peace, my friend.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Ermigo:''' ''You've ruined this.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Please. He's my friend.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You lied to me. You betrayed me.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You sent us away on a fool's errand.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''And for what? To protect your treacherous friends?''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''How could I trust you? A man blinded by vengeance?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This is not vengeance! It is justice!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Wait. Both of you.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''He was my friend when I had nothing! No one!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''He is working with the Templars!''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''So was I. Ermigo was a brother to me. I won't let you kill him.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Gaspar:''' Deveria matá-lo eu próprio por te-los trazido todos até aqui. Mas primeiro, irei punir este traidor. ''(I should kill him myself for leading all of you people here. But first, I shall punish this traitor.)''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Ermigo:''' Senhor, só um momento... ''(Senhor, just a moment...)''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Ermigo:''' ''Wait!'' Esperem! ''(Wait!)''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Ermigo!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Gaspar:''' [Huffs] ''Kill them all, then.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''I lied to you, but now my actions speak the truth. Come! Join me!''
| |
| [Play as Yasuke]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Let us fight the true enemy. together!''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Yasuke! I'm sorry I lied to you!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Fight now! Explain later!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Gaspar:''' ''Now I get to put down Nobunaga's pet.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Ermigo:''' ''I knew that you were too soft-hearted to know the truth. But I hoped that one day you'd come to see... join the cause. That we could be... true brothers once again.'' [sighs]
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Ermigo.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I... I am sorry for your loss.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Even though he was one of them?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''He was your true friend. A sentiment he proved with his final act. Rufino, I...''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Stop. I... I lied to you. I broke the trust between us. But... I have always been a fool. It's why all my friends are dead. Garrett, Umi, Ryuichi. And now... I have no one.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''That is not true.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Our league is made of people who believe they can make our world a better place. A hopeful fool will fit right in.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Come back with us, Rufino. Join us - as our ally.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''These men killed my friend, stole my hope, poisoned my desire for peace and twisted it into a means of taking power.'' [sighs]
| |
| Yasuke
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Then come, we will hunt all who manipulate the good for their own gain.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''We'll show them that these strays have claws.''
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Letter from J. to Gaspar|Text=Gaspar,<br><br>Brothers Duarte and Caro have failed. These islands are slipping through our fingers. It falls to you to take control of the Seta River - the Order needs it to secure passage for the members of the Black Cross we are mobilizing. Once they reach your shores, the tide will once again swing in our favor.<br><br>May the Father of Understanding guide you,<br>- M.}}
| |
|
| |
| ==The Reunion==
| |
| A shinobi has been held on Awaji for years. It is time to set her free.
| |
| Naoe infiltrates Sumoto Castle in search of her mother.
| |
| Ambushed by Kimura Yukari, Naoe is trapped under the tenshu along with her mother.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''Knowing that prisoner is in this same castle... It makes me uneasy.''
| |
| *'''Guard 2:''' ''Don't worry, she's nice and safe under the tenshu.''
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''She's made too many escape attempts for my liking. One day she will get loose.''
| |
| *'''Guard 3:''' ''It's not her who worries me. The daimyo's concubine, she's the one who gives me nightmares.''
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''Hmm, now that you mention it, I haven't seen our lord the daimyo for many weeks...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This must be where they keep the shinobi.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tsuyu?''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [gasps]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [gasps]
| |
| Naoe rushes over to her mother and begins cutting her free.
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [gasps]
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Naoe?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [gasps] ''It's me. I'm here to save you.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''My Naoe... No... No, no... You shouldn't have come.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [breathes]
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''No!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''A long-lost daugther, desperate to earn her mother's love, no matter the risk...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [gasps] [breathes]
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''Ah, Naoe, did my puppet show please you? I tailored it especially for you.''
| |
| Naoe notices her Hidden Blade had been taken while she was unconscious.
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [gasps]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' [laughs]
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Hurt her... and I'll never give you what you want.''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''I will give the two of you some time alone. To catch up. Think things through.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Who are you?''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''I am Kimura Yukari. And all you need know is that Awaji is mine.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [hurts]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This was all a trap - the puppet show - to lure me here.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tsuyu.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''[sighs] Come. Let me have a look at you.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [breathes]
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''You've grown. Last I saw you...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I was a little girl.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''A rambunctious one, face always covered in mud.''
| |
| [a pause]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I was told you were dead. I believed it until I found the message you left for chichiue.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''So... Nagato's obligation passed to you. Tell me. How did he die?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''He died defending me.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Then he asked too much of you. If only I had been there...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Those responsible paid with their lives.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Your father's heart was like no other. I will mourn him, when the time is right.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [breathes] ''You've been here all this time?''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [sighs] ''Kept alive by Yukari because she hopes to discover where I hid the Sword.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The final regalia! I have already recovered the other two. The Jewel and the Mirror are safe.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Then the work is nearly done.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We will find it. Together we will reunite all three regalia.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''You have the spirit of an Assassin. I will appreciate the help. But first we must find a way out of this place.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'm sure we won't have long to wait. Let me tell you about my friend...''
| |
|
| |
| ==Mayu's Offerings==
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''Oh, little one. Of all you Ojizo-sama, I seem to visit you the most.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''Oh. Hello. If I may, are you a traveler? Or are you lost...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Naoe. A bit of both. A bit of neither.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' [laughs] ''You have the look of someone on a journey. One with great purpose. I am Mayu. Few pay respects to the Jizo statues. Those who do are usually travelers. Or those who have lost their way.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Figuratively or literally?''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''I find one usually accompanies the other.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''So you are a traveler who has lost her way. Or perhaps you're waiting for someone.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''You dodged my question.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I did. Not long ago, I lost my way. But I found purpose moving forward.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''A kindred spirit. May I offer a word of advice? Seek out these Jizo statues. Make offerings to Ojizo-sama. You will be doing me a personal favor. One I will reward.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''How will you know I've done as you asked?''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''Call it... an intuition of our kindred spirits. You'll find the statues throughout the land. At crossroads and river crossings. Remember to come back once you pay respects to Ojizo-sama.''
| |
| [After honoring 10 statues]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Hello again, Mayu.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''Something tells me you've already made progress.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I have. Before you told me I dodged your question, but in truth, you dodged mine.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''Pretty and astute. You asked if I had lost my way, or if I was waiting for someone. Both are true. My husband. Off fighting a war like so many of us have had to do. He never returned.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'm sorry. It's never easy.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''We lose some of ourselves in the process, I think. Take a small token for your efforts. And your company.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Thank you.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''Come back after you pay respects to more Jizo statues. All, if you can.''
| |
| [After honoring 35 statues]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Hello again, Mayu. You know, it's almost as if some statues don't want to be found.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' [laughs] ''I could relate to that for some time.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The first year of my husband's disappearance, I hid away. Waiting for him to find me. I couldn't imagine him gone forever. But after enough time, the truth made itself known. Then darkness took hold. I did not know myself without him.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''Losing someone that close... it's hard to shake that darkness. I know.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Healing takes time. But we will get there. And if I may, take another small token of thanks.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''Thank you.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Come back after you pay respects to more Jizo statues. All, if you can.''
| |
| [After honoring all 69 statues]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Hello again, Mayu.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''Don't tell me. You've paid respects to every statue?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Is this another "intuition of a kindred spirits" thing?''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''I sense fulfillment. In you, and in myself. Honoring these little statues taught me so much on my pilgrimage. Did they teach you?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We all find ourselves on unsure paths. But those paths are beginnings, not endings.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''Exactly. I've never met anyone else who has completed the pilgrimage. A final token of my gratitude for your compassion.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Wherever your path takes you, I hope you find what you're looking for.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''You've shown me... that I am still someone. That I am brave. Just as you have been searching for your place in this world, I too shall seek mine.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Be a traveler, Mayu. But know you are not lost.''
| |
| *'''Mayu:''' ''I am grateful your path found mine, dear Naoe. Stay safe. Remember me at the crossroads.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Way of the Bo==
| |
| In order to retrieve Tsuyu's key, Naoe must prove herself to the bo master at Kannoji Temple.
| |
| Naoe goes to meet with bo master Taguchi Myoga in order to retrieve Tsuyu's key.
| |
| Having bested Myoga, Naoe received the location of her mother's key.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tsuyu said the bo master should be around here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Taguchi Myoga:''' ''Another wanderer come to learn the art of the bo, I presume?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I am Fujibayashi Naoe, daughter of Tsuyu. I am here for the key she entrusted to you.''
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''Are you now? Yes, I do see the resemblance. I wonder if it is more than skin deep.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Please, I must have that key before Kimura Yukari finds us.''
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''Ah, but there is still impatience there. I can work with this.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tsuyu mentioned I must best you. If that is what it will take...''
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''All in good time. First, tell me, do you have experience with the bo?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I trained with Bo Master Meiran. Briefly.''
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''How fortunate for you. His skills are legendary for good reason. Very well. If you want the key, prove to me you are Fujibayashi.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''Please. Demonstrate your skills with the bo. Practice your high, neutral, and low stances with my student here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''Good.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''The variation of stances is key. Please, show me another.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''A well-timed neutral attack will push your opponent back. Useful for keeping them at a distance. Very good. Now try another posture.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''Good. A high attack may stagger your opponent. I myself like to surprise my foes as they attack with a swift high strike. Yes. Now, show me another stance, please.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''Impressive. A low attack will topple any opponents you catch off guard. Against a group, it is a formidable technique.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I understand now. Each posture has a unique advantage.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''Impressive.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Now, will you give me the key?''
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''I believe your mother said you must best me. So... best me.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''Ah... you are your mother's daughter indeed.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This weapon is versatile, effective. I see why you have dedicated your life to it.''
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''Then we part as kindred spirits. I hid your mother's key above the mountainside ruins.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Thank you.''
| |
| *'''Taguchi:''' ''Farewell Naoe, but be warned. This land is Yukari's. You must keep eyes in the back of your head.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I know the location of Tsuyu's key. I should head there next.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Hunting the Hunters==
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke set out to stop the Seta River Killers from fulfilling their assignments.
| |
| Yasuke and Naoe dealt with all the hired killers and brought their coded orders for Rufino to decode, uncovering a location for a Templar meeting.
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Tormentor's Kill Assignment|Text=Tormentor,<br><br>Your target is that insufferable kimono vendor. The more she begs for mercy, tho more you should make it hurt. Bring proof of her death to our last meeting place in Settsu.<br><br>- The Exterminator}}
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This was one of the killers Rufino was seeking to stop. Their chain of command leads to the Exterminator.''
| |
| ------------
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This place stinks of death.''
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Exterminator's Encoded Message|Text=(A mixture of swirls, shapes, and symbols, this mysterious code is unreadable without some kind of translated context.)}}
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Coded messages are reserved for the upper echelon, it seems.''
| |
|
| |
| -----------------
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''That must be the one called the Builder. Playing "Lord of the Lumberyard" while ordering the death of peasants.'' [scoffs]
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Builder's Encoded Message|Text=(A mixture of swirls, shapes, and symbols, this mysterious code is unreadable without some kind of translated context.)}}
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''A kill assignment. With instructions from their overseer.''
| |
|
| |
| -----------------------
| |
|
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''Do not kill me!''
| |
| *'''Collector:''' ''Oh, stop your whining. You'll ruin my appetite. I'm lucky to have been assigned a mark with such quality goods.''
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I cannot let this bully go free.''
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Collector's Kill Assignment|Text=Collector,<br><br>Your mark is that merchant on the move. Do what you want with his goods, but any mon you find is mine. Bring proof of his death to my rural hideaway near the shores of Lake Biwa. Do not keep me waiting.<br><br>- The Trader}}
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''One of Rufino's killers, then. This one sent by the Trader.''
| |
|
| |
| -----------------------
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''That fisherwoman. She is one of the threatened civilians Rufino spoke of. I should keep an eye on her.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Fisher:''' ''I'm busy, stranger. Leave me be. Stop buzzing about. You're worse than a fly.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Stalker's Kill Assignment|Text=Stalker,<br><br>Kill that meddling fisherwoman. Bring her hands to me at Koriyama Camp as proof. Let's see if they still reek of fish guts when they are no longer attached.<br><br>- The Exterminator}}
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Another killer under the Trader's influence. We're getting closer.''
| |
|
| |
| -----------------------
| |
|
| |
| *'''Trader:''' ''You'd be surprised how little it takes to buy a life. Appetite drives everything. A starving man desperate for work. A cruel man aching for amusement. A stranger's name and a few mon is all it takes.''
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Trader's Encoded Message|Text=(A mixture of swirls, shapes, and symbols, this mysterious code is unreadable without some kind of translated context.)}}
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I should take these messages to Rufino to decode. This seems like the last of them.''
| |
|
| |
| --------------
| |
|
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Naoe. Yasuke. You have something for me?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Three coded messages. Found on the bodies of the overseers.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Oh...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Is there a problem?''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''No, it's just... Must we do this? We've saved the civilians, crippled their network. Isn't that enough?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It is not finished until their leader and everyone working with them is dead.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''No. It's too much. I don't want this blood on my hands.''
| |
| <tabber>
| |
| |-|This is what it takes=
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You want to save innocents, no?''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''Yes. But I want the killing to stop!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''These are monsters who will keep killing unless we kill them first. They have no regard for human life.''
| |
|
| |
| |-|Your hands aren't clean=
| |
| **'''Naoe:''' ''Just because you didn't draw the blade doesn't make your hands any cleaner.''
| |
| **'''Rufino:''' ''I asked for your help to protect the innocent.''
| |
| **'''Naoe:''' ''And that's what we're doing. The world is not black and white. Sometimes doing the right thing is messy.''
| |
|
| |
| </tabber>
| |
|
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' ''You say you want to protect the innocent? Taking this path will lead to their death.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Among these schemers, there are no innocents.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We are not killing innocents, I promise you.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' [huffs] ''Look. All I want is to protect people.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [sighs] ''I know. I want the same.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tell us what's in the message.''
| |
| *'''Rufino:''' [sighs] ''There will be a meeting soon between "The Architect" and one of his agents, "The Scholar." They will meet on the northern tip of an island in the middle of Lake Biwa. Go there and... you'll find them.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Who's taking the lead?''
| |
| [Play as Naoe]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You find them. I will make them suffer.''
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=True Decoded Message|Text=(The overseers' message fragments have been combined into one document. While still encoded, Rufino has added a note in the margins, identifying the Architect's planned meeting point.)}}
| |
|
| |
| ==A Long Lost Key==
| |
| The key to the Sword regalia is hidden above the Mountainside Ruins. Naoe and Yasuke must retrieve it before the Sanzoku Ippa does.
| |
| Naoe sets out to retrieve Tsuyu's key from its hiding place.
| |
| Despite the ambush, Naoe managed to retrieve the key to the regalia's location.
| |
|
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This is the right place. Tsuyu's key is here somewhere. I should look around.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Unknown [Nowaki]:''' ''I'll have that blade. Your head too!<br>Come. Come!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I must head to the temple where Tsuyu hid the regalia. And whoever or whatever that just was, I must keep an eye out for further ambushes.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Homecoming==
| |
| With Yasuke's help, Ibuki confronts the shadows of their past.
| |
| Yasuke meets with Ibuki to confront Kyobei.
| |
| Following Nakatomi's death, Ibuki decided to join the Kakushiba ikki.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Ibuki. There they are.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Where are Kyobei's men? His servants?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What is the matter?''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''This castle is under Kyobei's care. But all these soldiers are Nakatomi's. Something is wrong. I can feel it.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Perhaps there's been a change to the guard.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''It is rarely that simple.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Right. Whatever the situation, I am ready.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Good. No time for stealth or subterfuge. Let us get Kyobei, and fast.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nakatomi Guard:''' ''Lord Nakatomi is right to punish him. What kind of idiot fails to bring back unarmed peasants?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''There. Kyobei must be inside.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Nakatomi.''
| |
| *'''Nakatomi:''' ''Ibuki. I must be seeing a ghost.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You are the daimyo known for their iron-fisted cruelty?''
| |
| *'''Nakatomi:''' ''Not cruelty. Practicality. If I let anyone disobey me, everyone will.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''So you - ''
| |
| *'''Nakatomi:''' ''If you do not hold your tongue, stranger, I will hand it back to you.''
| |
| [she turns to Ibuki]
| |
| *'''Nakatomi:''' ''You. Kyobei swore to me that you were dead. He swore on his family's honor.''
| |
| *'''Kyobei:''' ''Why couldn't you just stay away?''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''You exiled me. You abandoned me.''
| |
| *'''Nakatomi:''' ''Kyobei's order was to kill you. A test of loyalty. One he failed, it seems. It is an oversight easily mended.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Kyobei. Kyobei, look at me!''
| |
| *'''Kyobei:''' ''Let me have my punishment. Let me die with honor, please.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Do something! Say something.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You want an honorable death, Kyobei? Stand up and fight. Now!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nakatomi:''' ''Kill them all!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Kyobei:''' ''I did not want this.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Because you are a good man. You will be a better leader than Nakatomi ever was.''
| |
| *'''Kyobei:''' ''That is not how it works, Ibuki.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Why not? Why not?''
| |
| *'''Kyobei:''' ''I need to think on it. Let us speak in the morning.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Kyobei and I would sit like this for hours as children. Talking under the stars. Dew would collect on the sleeping blossoms. A whole world within each drop. Blue anemone are my favorite. Seeing the flowers turn, the way they chase the daylight... A reminder. To seek the good.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You have the soul of a poet.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Poetry, literature, music... I'm more artist than ronin. Always have been. Do you know ikebana?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Flower arrangement? I have seen displays. Beautiful, but I cannot say I understand it.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Some forms of ikebana are driven by strict guidelines. Rigid and formal. Others, more... spontaneous. Free. So what is it that makes ikebana beautiful to you, Yasuke? Is it the guidelines that shape it? Or the flower underneath?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''One can pluck and arrange all day, but a flower does not need rules to be beautiful.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''And, like a flower, our own existence is ephemeral. So why contort ourselves to suit the aesthetics of some forgotten scholar?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Do you always talk in such grand metaphor, Ibuki? This conversation makes my head spin.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' [chuckles] ''That is not the first time I've heard that. Perhaps... that is a good place for us to end our conversation for the evening. Goodnight... Yasuke.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''Kyobei will talk with the others. But he is hopeful. He said it was your strength that convinced him. Snapped him out of his haze. I will miss him.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Come with me, Ibuki. Join my league. We could use someone with your skills and talents. Your perspective.''
| |
| *'''Ibuki:''' ''I will admit... it has been nice to wander less. To feel shared purpose again. So yes, Yasuke. I will join your league. "A bough once leafless sprouts new life."''
| |
| []
| |
|
| |
| ==Ride Into Town==
| |
| Rin eagerly awaits another round of training from sensei Yasuke.
| |
| Yasuke overhears a fight when visiting Rin.
| |
| Yasuke accompannied Rin on a visit to the temple.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Screaming. Rin?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Outlaw Rogue:''' ''Hey! Stop that!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Rin is fending off the bandits well. I should hold back. She is in control, right? I can help if she needs it.''
| |
| [Player defeats all bandits]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [grunts] ''That will leave a mark.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Rin! Are you hurt? What happened?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Some wandering bandits thought my bow was mere decoration. But I appreciate your concern, sensei. And your help.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I am not sure you needed it.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' [pants] ''Thank you.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''The bandit dropped a bracelet... oh! This belongs to a merchant up by the Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine. A kind man. Bit of a show-off. I remember him wearing it. We should return the bracelet. Maybe the bandits caused trouble for other merchants.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What kind of bracelet is it?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Buddhist prayer beads. Every now and then, I buy supplies from the temple town near the Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''So you're not a hermit like your grandfather was.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''No. I consider some of the merchant friends. Or, at least, they are some of my nearest neighbors. I remember one merchant wearing these beads. Apparently I was the only person he hadn't told about them.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You have taken to riding very well.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Thank you. I would say I mostly self-taught, after all.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''You wound me. You are a natural rider. But the horse will know if you become overconfident, and will surprise you.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Perhaps I should show you how good I am? How about a friendly race to the big lake over the ridge?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Is that wise? You're still a beginner.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Spoken like one who has already lost. Or someone worried I'm better than him.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''What?'' [scoffs] ''Never.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Then perhaps it is time I teach you a thing or two. Don't keep me waiting, sensei! Yah!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''She is good. Even if I can best Rin, should I?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Faster, Ite!''
| |
| [Player wins]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''What a ride. Perhaps you too were born in a saddle.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''So close! Admit it, I nearly had you!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''I will do no such thing.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Next time you won't be as fortunate.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''For you to ride so well, so quickly, is very impressive. It took me years.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Where did you learn?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I started when I was very young. Back in my homeland. A country far across the ocean.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Tell me more about your home.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [sighs] ''I would not know where to begin.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Then... paint me a picture. How does it look out there?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It... is a very hot place. Different seasons, animals, and fruit. Golden sand. The rest, blue and green like an insect's wings. Before I came to this land, your country, I had never seen snow.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''No winters?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''A different kind of winter.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Did you say different fruit? Tell me you had plums! I cannot bear the thought of a life without plums.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''We had many other fruits.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Snow, I could do without. But no plums... what would life be?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Here we are. Come, let's return the bracelet to its rightful owner.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Child:''' ''Oh, Rin is back. Hello!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''Rin! I didn't think we would see you again so soon. Are you well?''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Yes, thank you. And I have something that belongs to you.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''Oh! Slippery fingers. Must have dropped it between here and home. Have some onigiri. For your good deed.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Onigiri? Yasuke, this is special! You choose which kind.''
| |
| <tabber>
| |
| |-|Salmon=
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Salmon onigiri, please.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Oh. I'm sure it's delicious.''
| |
| *'''Merchant:''' ''Enjoy!''
| |
|
| |
| |-|Plum=
| |
| **'''Yasuke:''' ''How about the plum?''
| |
| **'''Rin:''' [gasps] ''Really? That's my favorite!''
| |
|
| |
| |-|Salted=
| |
| ***'''Yasuke:''' ''The salted one sounds delicious.''
| |
| ***'''Rin:''' ''Oh. I'm sure it's delicious.''
| |
| ***'''Merchant:''' ''Enjoy!''
| |
|
| |
| </tabber>
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''While we are here, I want to check one more shop. If you don't mind. I love calligraphy. All the papers and brushes... I daydream about what I would paint.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I am glad to know you have company. You have made real friends here.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''What can I say? All that practice with my bow makes me hungry. And once I made friends with Ite, I enjoyed exploring all the areas that surround the hut. Here, I buy myself clothes when I need them. Paper for drawing. Oh! Another merchant sells excellent calligraphy brushes here.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I had no idea you enjoyed drawing.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''It's one of my favorite ways to pass the time. I suppose what I enjoy, is... creating beauty. This world desperately needs it.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I agree.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''But drawing the forest animals is challenging. They run too fast.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''I have the same problem.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''My favorite musician! Ignore the bottles. He's harmless. He's pretty good even when he drinks. He said he "purges his demons" with all that sake. He's always been kind to me.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Musician:''' ''Riiin! Who's your friend? Hey, hey. The three-legged crow told me to practice day and night. I'm just doing what I was told!'' [hiccups]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Though the musician's methods are... questionable, I cannot help but admire his dedication to his art. Perhaps creating beauty is something we should all aspire to do.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''You intrigue me, sensei. Tell me... what beauty do you intend to create?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The beauty of music. I would like to buy you an instrument of your own.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''So, you want me to create beauty, then? I think I have enough hobbies for now. Perhaps... you could try to draw me instead? Let me see your eye for my details.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I would be honored.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Please, stand exactly as you are.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Perfect. Creating beauty is something you are already skilled at.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Come, Yasuke, I want you to see something.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''Despite how we were brought together, I'm so grateful to have met you. Because of you, I can lead a different life. One I am proud of. One filled with excitement... and you.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''To be your sensei, however briefly, has been my honor. And if it pleases you, I would be glad to be counted among your friends.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' [sighs] ''Friends. It would please me greatly. When you find that person who is right for you. I know you will make them very happy.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Thank you.''
| |
| *'''Rin:''' ''I'll go back home now. Until we meet again, sensei.''
| |
|
| |
| ==To Catch a Spy==
| |
| Once Hattori Hanzo receives new information concerining Yasuhira, he will help plan the next steps.
| |
| Naoe returned to Hanzo to pool their information concerning Yasuhira.
| |
| Naoe decided to retrieve the disguise before meeting Hanzo again.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Hattori Hanzo:''' ''How have you fared? Any progress?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I nearly killed someone you apparently know, a man by the name of Shokichi.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''Shokichi? What took you to Shokichi?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A lie, meant to keep us from our goal. It took some time, but I found Yasuhira's residence. Inside I found a mask and a missive: "The black masks gather once more."''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''I think I have an idea what these items may be referring to. There are rumors of a gathering in the north of Awaji. Whispers of a clandestine reunion.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A meeting. Of Yasuhira's network.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''My thoughts exactly.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''If I could infiltrate that gathering, we could learn a lot. We do have the mask... But the note we found, it mentioned a black kosode. We would need both to enter undetected.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''Just so. There were rumors that one was stolen from Kamaguchi Village and taken to a nearby camp. It is for you to decide. I will look into this supposed gathering. Perhaps I can uncover more we do not yet know. Seek the disguise, or do not. But meet me at the safehouse in northern Awaji when you are ready.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Hunting the Hunter==
| |
| A merchant specializing in leather goods might have information of Nowaki. One may be found in Yuta.
| |
| Naoe headed to Yura in search for a lead on Nowaki.
| |
| The leather merchant told Naoe to look for Shiro at the Hunter's Lodge for information on Nowaki.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That merchant is selling leather goods. I should ask him about Nowaki.''
| |
| *'''Leather Merchant:''' ''Esteemed customer, a thousand apologies but I am not currently accepting orders.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Unable to sell? Yet I see plenty here.''
| |
| *'''Leather Merchant:''' ''Ah, perhaps I misspoke. These are already accounted for. A... new client. Very demanding.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I believe I know who it is you serve. Nowaki. I imagine she threatened you. Commandeered your business.''
| |
| *'''Leather Merchant:''' ''How did you... No, I... I cannot.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Rest your worries. I am here to help. Please, tell me what you know of her.''
| |
| *'''Leather Merchant:''' ''It was not my intention to... No. If she finds out I spoke to you... My family...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''If you can lead me to her, I vow to do everything I can to rid you and your family of her menace. She will not ever pose a threat to you again.''
| |
| *'''Leather Merchant:''' ''You do not know of what you speak. She is an oni, one who moves unseen. But I do know of someone. Shiro. At the Hunter's Lodge.
| |
| Hunter's Lodge, you say?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yes. Yes! Seek out Shiro. Near Fukara village. He oversees the work there. Stripping the hides before they come to me. He knew Nowaki as a child, he... It clouds his vision, he cannot see her evil.''
| |
| *'''Leather Merchant:''' ''Thank you. I will find him, and I will find Nowaki.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Please, lower your voice! Oh, and when you see Shiro, do not mention me!''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Way of the Kosode==
| |
| Hattori Hanzo mentioned a black kosode can be found neat Kamaguchi Village.
| |
| Naoe locates the camp with the stolen black kosode.
| |
| Naoe infiltrated the camp and retrieved the kosode.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Get in. Get the kosode. Get out.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=The Master|Text=I swear to you, Yasuhira will be there. A man in black wearing a large hat and a blue shawl.<br><br>Your absence will be noted, Asahi.<br><br>Please come. For your own sake.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''With this, we have a chance to turn Yasuhira's own game against him.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Alone At Last==
| |
| With her taisho dead, Yukari is vulnerable and the regalia is within reach. It is time to prepare for the final assault.
| |
| Having dealt with Yukari's taiso, Naoe and Yasuke return to the safehouse.
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yukari's taisho are dead.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [breathes]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Three fewer Templars on Awaji. Only one now remains.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''You have done well, both of you. But we have not recovered the regalia.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Not yet. But news over taisho's death will spread. It is only a matter of time until she is betrayed.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Her grip on Awaji is still too strong. And she still has the Sanzoku Ippa. You will have to do more to expose her.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Konatsu mentioned rumors of an ashigaru forced to work the land to repay his debts.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''If we were to free him of his debt, show how far Yukari has fallen, we may inspire the people to rise up against her.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''A single spark can burn an entire forest.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Before I killed Yasuhira, he mentioned sedatives as a useful tool in his work. If we could add such a drug to the provisions of the Sanzoku Ippa, it would reduce their numbers.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''There is a village behind on their taxes and so the Sanzoku Ippa help themselves to the peasants' food stores.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Then we should acquire the sedatives and add them to the village provisions to weaken Yukari's forces. Konatu also said she had learnt of a shipment of teppo. Destroying them would be of great advantage. Anything we do to help Awaji's people, or weaken the Sanzoku Ippa, will serve us well when it is time to finally deal with Yukari.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''I suggest you pursue all leads. Return to me when you are ready and we'll see if your actions have been enough to expose her.''
| |
| [play as naoe]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The plan is good. Let's go.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Silencing the Teppo==
| |
| Destroying Yukari's teppo will reduce her soldier's firepower.
| |
| Yasuke meets with Konatsu to follow up on another lead to weaken the Sanzoku Ippa.
| |
| Yasuke sabotaged the teppo delivery.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''Ah, I am glad to see you!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Konatsu. You said you may have a lead on a way to further weaken the Sanzoku Ippa?''
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''Yes. Yukari will receive a new delivery of teppo soon.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Where are they now, these weapons?''
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''Here in Yura, at the military port. But they will not be easy to access and any tampering will have... explosive results.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Leave that to me. Thank you.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I need to locate all the teppo and be ready. Destroying them will draw much attention.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''That will not go unnoticed.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Unsubtle, but effective.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Good. One to go.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''That was the last of them.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Contact==
| |
| Yukari's spymaster remains a ghost, feared by all Awaji. Hattori Hanzo may know more.
| |
| Naoe meets with Hattori Hanzo to learn more about Yukari's spymaster.
| |
| Naoe met with Hanzo's contact and learned of Yasukhira's location.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Hattori Hanzo:''' ''Naoe.''
| |
| *'''Fujibayashi Naoe:''' ''Hanzo.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''I didn't thank you for your help fighting off Yukari's forces.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Unnecessary. Is that all you wished to discuss?''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''No... I need your help again. We're going after Yukari spymaster.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Hmm. Kadenokoji Juro Harima-no-Kami Yasuhira. I know of him. I was to meet a man who claimed he had information on his location. Go in my stead. See what he knows.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''A good place to start. I'll return when I know more.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That must be Hanzo's contact.''
| |
| *'''Contact:''' ''Over here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Contact:''' ''Hanzo told me to look out for you. Let's make this quick.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''He said you know where to find Yukari's spymaster.''
| |
| *'''Contact:''' ''Yes. His home is set farthest back from the sea, at the foot of the castle.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''So much for Yukari's master of stealth. Thank you.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Visitor==
| |
| Yasuhira is visited regularly by a woman in black. She can be found near Yura Minato Shrine.
| |
| Naoe hopes to track down Yasuhira by following a woman in black who visits him regularly.
| |
| Naoe infiltrated Yasuhira's house and retrieved more information on the spymaster and his whereabouts.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I should be cautious. Yasuhira's visitor should be nearby.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That must be the woman who visits Yasuhira. I should keep my distance.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Woman in Black:''' ''He'll be waiting for me. I should go.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''She is heading into Yura town.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Careful. They've stopped.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Woman in Black:''' ''Not here. Apparently only his own time must not be wasted.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No one home. A good opportunity to investigate.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Some clue to Yasuhira's whereabouts must be here.''
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Yasuhira's Journal|Text=I suspect the fool was weak, knew his wit was dull. And yet I fooled myself into thinking strength could be forged in him.<br><br>He believed himself so cunning as to keep his contact with Hanzo secret? From me? Yasuhira, Spymaster of Awaji? Imbecile.<br><br>His death will mean little, but perhaps his corpse will attract one of Hanzo's flies.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yasuhira! So this is indeed his house. It appears he discovered one of Hanzo's contacts. He is cunning indeed.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Note and Mask|Text=The black masks gather once more.<br><br>Much has been accomplished since the last meeting, yet we stand at a most perilous time. There cannot be a single point of weakness within the ranks.<br><br>Each must be reminded that is only a very few that may earn a black kosode, and fewer still live to wear it long.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Another mask, and talk of a gathering. Perhaps Hanzo will know more.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Home of a Killer==
| |
| According to Shiro, Nowaki's childhood house still stands close to Kamaguchi Village.
| |
| Naoe seeks out Nowaki's childhood home.
| |
| Naoe found an important keepsake for Nowaki, her sister's Templar cross.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Young Villager:''' ''Hey! Beware of the oni! She is everywhere around here! She'll take you by surprise!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Young Villager:''' ''Aren't you scared?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No... should I be?''
| |
| *'''Young Villager:''' ''Don't you know of the oni? She lives in the old house.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''And where may I find such an evil place?''
| |
| *'''Young Villager:''' ''It's not far, but we are forbidden to go there. They say she can pull your soul into the trees...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Thank you for the warning.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''So many traps. What are they protecting?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Nowaki's old home should be near here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That blade has seen better days.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Getting inside this place will be tricky.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Overgrown, but recently tended to.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Suma's Note|Text=Nowaki. My sister.<br><br>Forgive me for leaving in the night, but my task is one of utmost importance and perilous risk.<br><br>I will not lie, I may not return. I leave you to watch over this, my most precious possession. The symbol of those who will deliver to us the future we deserve, free from the tyranny of petty daimyo and their zealots.<br><br>If this is truly goodbye, I leave my task to you. Seek the men of the cross. Avenge me. Assure our future.<br><br>I love you, my sister.<br><br>- Suma}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''What is that? A Templar cross, here? With this, I can finally force Nowaki to face me.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Spy at Rest==
| |
| N/A
| |
| Following the info from Hanzo's contact, Naoe heads to the dwelling of Yukari's spymaster.
| |
| Realizing she had been tricked, Naoefound herself once again seeking leads on Yasuhira.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That should be the place.''
| |
| []
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It appears no one is here. I should look around.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Letter to Shokichi|Text=Shokichi,<br><br>There remains little time. The information you hold is essential in our fight against the threat posed by our mutual friend.<br><br>Please come in from the cold, my friend. Join us.<br><br>H.}}
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The note is addressed to "Shokichi." Could be one of Yasuhira's aliases. He was set to betray someone.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Second Letter|Text=Wishing not to commit ink to that which is best told in person, I call on your indulgence, my dear H., in reading this missive.<br><br>The snake that coild in darkness recoils in light. Yet it is not the sun that reveals him, but instead cloaks him in the shadows it casts.<br><br>Only behind the masks of night is he exposed by the radiance of a betraying moon.<br><br>At this time, I can offer only these meagre lines in service to your cause.<br><br>S.}}
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''"Masks of night." Curious. This Shokichi writes in riddles but talks of exposing someone? Something?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A black mask. What do these masks mean?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''The Spymaster [Shokichi]:''' ''Whatever you think you're doing here, it won't be easy.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''The Spymaster [Shokichi]:''' ''He sent you, right?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''The Spymaster [Shokichi]:''' [winces] ''Stop. Please. You have bested me. Must I beg for what remains of my life?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Don't bother.''
| |
| [Spare him]
| |
| *'''Shokichi:''' ''Please! Please believe I never meant to displease him.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Cowardly words for Yukari's master spy. Even Hanzo did not know how low you slithered.''
| |
| *'''Shokichi:''' ''Master spy? No. I met with Hanzo's contact not two days ago! I gave him what he wanted. Information on Yasuhira. I am no master spy.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Wait, the contact I met then... was not Hanzo's man.''
| |
| *'''Shokichi:''' ''Just the sort of ruse Yasuhira would enact.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''But why this subterfuge? Why have me kill you? There are simpler methods, surely.''
| |
| *'''Shokichi:''' ''Perhaps he hoped I would be the one to kill you. That isn't so unimaginable, surely.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Possibly. Perhaps he simply discovered you were working with Hanzo. What are you to Yasuhira?''
| |
| *'''Shokichi:''' ''It is enough that you know my name is Shokichi. This note contains the information I gave to Hanzo's man. I do not know its meaning. But I do know it relates to Yasuhira. That is all I can say.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Black masks? I found such an item here. What are you not telling me?''
| |
| *'''Shokichi:''' ''Nothing, I swear it!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Go!''
| |
|
| |
| ==A Sour Defeat==
| |
| Tsuyu should be told what happened to the regalia. It is time to form a new plan.
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke arrive at the Sumoto safehouse to inform Tsuyu about the regalia.
| |
| Learning about the three taisho, Naoe and Yasuke set out to defeat them and topple Yukari's power structure.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''What happened?''
| |
| [It was my fault (Naoe)]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I gave Yukari the Regalia so I could save Yasuke.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''I should have been there. This is my fault.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No. It was my decision. It's on me.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Naoe. I know that you're trying to prove yourself, but the regalia are too important.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'm the one who recovered the Jewel.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''And yet, you have lost the Sword.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It's not lost. It's on this island. And now we will get it back.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Her taisho will ensure we'll never get to her.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''That is true. But if we can eliminate her taisho, her grip on Awaji will be loosened, and our allies will be able to expose her.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Perhaps.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Tell us what you know of her samurai, Tomeji.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''He is Yukari's enforcer. A Templar true-believer, serving Yukari out of a debt of honor he owes to her father. Tomeji is the face and fist of Yukari's power, brought down on any who stand in her way. While surrounded by his captains, it is unlikely either of you are his match.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Tomeji is based in Sumoto Castle, protected by his captains.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Konatu reports that he sends his captains out to patrol the island, to project and enforce Yukari's power.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Take them down one at a time and there will not be so many guarding him. It will leave Tomeji vulnerable.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''You must also deal with Nowaki, a creature of Yukari's making. If Tomeji is a club to the face... ...Nowaki is the blade to the back. A particularly savage one. She leaves no traces and cannot be tracked.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''We need to learn about her, what she values. Find something that she will stand and fight for.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''She clothes herself in leather. She must get it locally.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''They make leather goods in Yura. A merchant there might be a place to start. But your biggest challenge will be identifying Yukari's spymaster, Yasuhira. He is the shade that blankets Awaji in a cloak of fear. None who see his face live to tell the tale. He unleashes his agents on any who dare inform on Yukari and they will be on alert wherever you might send your scouts. Even if you defeat Tomeji and Nowaki, Yasuhira is a ghost. No one on this island will aid you finding him.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''We know someone who may be able to help.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Someone not from this island, yes.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''That could work, if there is such a person.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''We will defeat these taisho, and this island will finally turn on Yukari.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''And when she is exposed, we will take her down and finally recover the regalia.''
| |
| [Play as Naoe]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Let's go.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Tipping the Balance==
| |
| Helping the indebted ashigaru may persuade him to join the assault on Yukari.
| |
| Naoe seeks out an indebted ashigaru.
| |
| Naoe got rid of the ashigaru's debt records, earning the support of the people against Yukari.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The ashigaru crippled by Yukari's taxes should be close.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Ashigaru:''' [sighs] ''I don't want your pity.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'm a friend. I'm here to help with your debt to Yukari.''
| |
| *'''Ashigaru:''' ''Her new taxes are impossible to meet! Now I must work the land until my debt is paid.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''If I were to erase that debt, could we count on your help to rise up against those responsible?''
| |
| *'''Ashigaru:''' ''Kimura Yukari? You're going after Kimura Yukari!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Quiet. We have a plan. So do I have your word?''
| |
| *'''Ashigaru:''' ''My word, my sword, my loyalty forever more. Records are kept in the Samurai Residence. If they were to disappear, my debt would disappear with them.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Then remain here. I will return when it's done.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The ashigaru's debt records are kept here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''Lady Yukari's new taxes have made quite the impression.''
| |
| *'''Guard 2:''' [scoffs] ''I'm surprised half the island isn't in debt to her!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The debt records are dealt with. I should return to my ashigaru friend.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Ashigaru:''' ''You're back!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Your debts to Yukari have been erased.''
| |
| *'''Ashigaru:''' ''Ah! My thanks, all my thanks! With you in the lead, perhaps we can take down Yukari and her Sanzoku Ippa. I will tell the people of this. You will have their support. Call, and we will answer. This is a debt I can afford.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No. No debt. Just a favor for a favor.''
| |
|
| |
| ==A Garrison to Dismantle==
| |
| N/A
| |
| Having dealt with the captains, Yasuke seeks out Imagawa Tomeji.
| |
| Yasuke killed Tomeji, robbing Yukari of her warrior.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''You're back. Tomeji will return soon, if you're ready. There was a commotion earlier. I saw some captains heading out to replace those killed. Your doing, I presume?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Indeed. The more of them I kill, the more vulnerable Tomeji becomes.''
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''In fact, he stands completely alone. There will never be a better time to take him out. I believe you will make short work of him.''
| |
| [play as Yasuke]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I will face him now.''
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''Come then, I shall show you how to reach Tomeji.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' ''Outlander! You have brought nothing but chaos to Awaji. You have killed my men, left Awaji to the wolves. I must congratulate you for being quite the thorn in my... mistress' side.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Tell me, you speak of Yukari like you would an unbroken horse, one you unable to get rid of. Why? Why serve someone like her?''
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' ''For men like us, those who belong on the battlefield, it is hard to serve one as... ambitious as her. Kimura Yukari and I differ in many ways, but the destruction you have wrought must end.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I have freed the people of Yukari's oppression. AndI'm not done yet. None to fight in your stead now.''
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' ''All of us are bound by obligations beyond our control. And I will see mine fulfilled.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' ''I regret the death of my men, but I'll put an end to this. Now.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The final taisho is defeated. Now Yukari is vulnerable. I should return to the safehouse.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Origin of a Killer==
| |
| A man named Shiro apparently knew Nowaki as a child. He runs the Fukura Hunter's Lodge.
| |
| Naoe seeks a childhood friend of Nowaki at the Hunter's Lodge.
| |
| Having managed to survive an ambush, Naoe learned more about Nowaki's early life.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This must be the hunting lodge. I should find this Shiro.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Shiro? Who here is named Shiro?''
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''Over here.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''Who sent you?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''My name is Naoe. I am here to-''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''She's here! Nowaki!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''Too easy! You're worse than a rabbit! You will all burn for betraying her!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It's me you want, not them!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Is that Nowaki?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''Thank you.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That voice we heard. Nowaki?''
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''Indeed. One of Kimura Yukari's taisho.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Can you tell me where I may find her?''
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''I can tell you that her childhood house still stands, though it is a ruin. Close to Kamaguchi Village. And she is rumored to visit Sannomiya Shrine each morning. ''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That is everything I need. Thank you.''
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''If you wish to know more, I can tell you of her youth. It may not help you find her, but it will certainly help you understand her.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''You return.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You mentioned you knew more of her? How she came to be as she is now?''
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''Indeed I do. It is a sad tale. I do not promise it will aid you in your hunt, but to know a person is to understand them. She came from my own village. I was there when she was born.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yet she would kill her own people? What happened to her that she is now so malevolent?''
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''Nowaki was raised by her older sister, Suma. They grew uncommonly close. But Suma was cruel. She associated with outlanders, strange men who carried crosses.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Templars.''
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''She became their enforcer, hunting and killing their enemies. Nowaki learned from her. When Suma was killed by the outlanders' enemies, Nowaki retreated to her old home. The villagers left food for a time, but it soon became dangerous to do so. When she took to hunting, her... inventive traps began to take the lives of villagers who came too close.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Little wonder Yukari sought to leverage her talents.''
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''Under Kimura Yukari's guidance, Nowaki came to see herself as superior to her own people. Resentment festered. Then, having become that which she once despised, she turned her hatred on us.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''And would she stop if Yukari's gone?''
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''It's far too late. When last we spoke,behind that hideous mask of hers... the girl I knew was gone.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A sad tale indeed. But thank you for enlightening me.''
| |
| *'''Shiro:''' ''For all it is worth, you are welcome.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Bad Sleep Well==
| |
| Slipping sedatives into Sanzoku Ippa rations will reduce Yukari's forces during the assault.
| |
| Naoe seeks out a way to reduce Yukari's forces during the assault.
| |
| Naoe slipped the sedatives into the rations for the Sanzoku Ippa.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That must be the apothecary. They should have the sedatives I need.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Apothecary's Attendant:''' ''Hmm?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Please, I... I must speak with the apothecary.''
| |
| *'''Apothecary's Attendant:''' ''He's not here. He won't be back soon, or even today. Come back tomorrow.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No! Please, my father, he is sick. In pain.''
| |
| *'''Apothecary's Attendant:''' ''I can do nothing for you.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''He will die if nothing is done. Please!''
| |
| *'''Apothecary's Attendant:''' [grunts] ''There is perhaps... something.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Oh, thank you! You are very kind!''
| |
| *'''Apothecary's Attendant:''' ''On the table in the corner. Take it and go.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I have the sedatives. Now to head to the village and add them to the provisions.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''Why must we drag ourselves to this place to collect fish?''
| |
| *'''Guard 2:''' ''The locals fell behind on their taxes. Now what was theirs is ours.''
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''Serves them right for calling us the Sanzoku Ippa. Thieves indeed!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Here, the provisions.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That's one batch.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard 3:''' ''Look at all these supplies. We could feed the garrison for a week!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard 4:''' ''Nothing but rice for two days, and those carts full of food are just sitting there.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Another. One more should do it.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Done. Nothing like a good long nap after a meal. Those men should thank me.''
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| ==Dismantling One by One==
| |
| N/A
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke seek to weaken Imagawa Tomeji by removing his captains from play.
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke killed all of Tomeji's captains.
| |
|
| |
| Fukushima Mosaku
| |
| ''He is unmatched in his skill with a teppo and a soldier of rare cruelty and violence. He is devoted to his wife and three young children.''
| |
|
| |
| Hasegawa Magobei
| |
| ''He is a disciple of the dual katana and chews betel nuts to keep himself alert. He is unfortunately allergic to betel nuts.''
| |
|
| |
| Tozawa Yataro
| |
| ''Yataro is feared across Awaji for his skill with a kanabo. He believes in nothing.''
| |
|
| |
| Amano Buza
| |
| ''This deeply moral individual views the bo as the ultimate expression of his pragmatism.''
| |
|
| |
| Honda Mosuke
| |
| ''He sets his two swords alight to intimidate foes but is a poor soul who vomits whenever he eats rice.''
| |
|
| |
| Hachisuka Norimasa
| |
| ''He wields a mighty kanabo known as "The Executioner". Likes to tease and bully his colleagues, who despise him in turn.''
| |
|
| |
| Kuki Shinpachi
| |
| ''He was too impatient to master the blade and grew to prefer a hammer instead. Shinpachi hates his wife and children.''
| |
|
| |
| Ikoma Matagoro
| |
| ''He is obssessed with fire and explosives and likes to boast about his sexual prowess.''
| |
|
| |
| Shimazu Masujiro
| |
| ''Masuhiro is a disgraced student of Bo Master Meiran who values honor and loyalty above all else. He is, however, secretly having an affair with his best friend's wife.''
| |
|
| |
| Kaiwara Heitaro
| |
| ''He failed to master the katana and so turned to the naginata. He also secretly enjoys writing poems.''
| |
|
| |
| Sugunuma Heihachi
| |
| ''He is an expert marksman, but this conflicted soul believes he made a mistake coming to Awaji and wants to go home. He desperately detests puppet shows.''
| |
|
| |
| Kagae Koheiji
| |
| ''Years of dedicated practice has led him to completely master the katana. Although he is a decent man who despises his role on Awaji, he complies with it to support his elderly father.''
| |
|
| |
| Watanabe Kinji
| |
| ''He believes himself to be the foremost expert in the field of dual katana. The fact that everyone hates him and he has no friends at all may be a result of his boasting.''
| |
|
| |
| Ogasawara Masakichi
| |
| ''Masakichi is a deep thinker who has mastered the art of manipulation but remains cold and distant from his loved ones.''
| |
|
| |
| Upon locating any one of the captains, Yasuke may say:
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''This is one of Tomeji's commanders. I should deal with him.<br>Tomeji's commanders are not to be trifled with.<br>One of Tomeji's commanders... soon to be a dead man.''
| |
|
| |
| After killing any one of the captains, Yasuke may say:
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''He is of no use to you now, Tomeji.<br>This one is no longer of use to you, Tomeji.<br>Your precious commander is dead, Tomeji.<br>Well, Tomeji, there is one less man for you to hide behind.<br>Each commander I kill, the more vulnerable Tomeji becomes.''
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''That was the last of Tomeji's captains. Nothing to it.''
| |
|
| |
| [this letter is recovered from the first captain killed]
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Blockading Awaji|Text=Men,<br><br>The roadblocks are the backbone of our domination of Awaji. They contain our greatest treasures and our finest men.<br><br>And still. Rumors have reached me of pitiful whining echoing from the weakest links in our chain, those who decry their placement on these pillars of power.<br><br>My kanabo shall meet such complaints with pleasure, should any wwish to avail themselves of my council.<br><br>- Imagawa Tomeji}}
| |
|
| |
| [this letter is recovered from the last captain killed]
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Tomeji's Prize|Text=A letter from Tomeji.<br><br>He has hidden an item of great values in one of Awaji's castles.<br><br>It resides in Yura Castle during winter and summer and Sumoto Castle in spring and autumn.<br><br>It is in the stable kura in Sumoto Castle, or the western storage kura in Yura Castle.}}
| |
|
| |
| ==Memories of Battle==
| |
| An old warrior wishes to test his mettle against a formidable foe.
| |
| Yasuke found an old ashigaru who wishes to spar.
| |
| Having defeated the old warrior, Yasuke is gifted his weapon.
| |
|
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Worker 1:''' ''Don't worry, he mostly works in the hold.''
| |
| *'''Worker 2:''' ''The look he gave me...''
| |
| *'''Worker 1:''' ''Just... stay out of his way. I've heard stories about his past.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Old Ashigaru:''' ''You. You're samurai.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Greetings. My name is Yasuke.''
| |
| *'''Old Ashigaru:''' ''I was an ashigaru, you know. Before Nobunaga. Many were conscripted from my village. And many died.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''And yet you survived.''
| |
| *'''Old Ashigaru:''' ''No. I fled. I saw death every day... Though, I remember those times now with fond memories. How bizarre that is.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I can understand that feeling, to be part of something.''
| |
| *'''Old Ashigaru:''' ''Would you do me a favor, Yasuke?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''If I am able.''
| |
| *'''Old Ashigaru:''' ''A friendly spar. And no holding back.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''That, I can do. And do not worry, I will not hold back.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Worker 2:''' ''Is that... Is someone fighting?''
| |
| *'''Worker 1:''' ''The old fool is probably taking a nap and having nightmares about war again.''
| |
| [Halfway through the fight]
| |
| *'''Old Ashigaru:''' ''Ha! You fight well, Yasuke. But I'm not done yet!''
| |
| [defeats him]
| |
| *'''Old Ashigaru:''' ''You are a great warrior, Yasuke. I am glad we met. My weapon, would you accept it?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''With honor.''
| |
| *'''Old Ashigaru:''' ''I will let this part of me go with you. Let it feel the thrill of the battlefield once more.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I will see that it does.''
| |
| *'''Old Ashigaru:''' ''You have my thanks.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Pain and Grain==
| |
| A local Yura trader needs help retrieving shipments of Awaji's legendary food supplies.
| |
| Naoe overhears a trader in trouble in Yura.
| |
| Naoe located food crates throughout Awaji, allowing the trader to meet the Imperial Family's demands.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Concerned Trader:''' [sighs]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Good day. What is all the fuss about?''
| |
| *'''Concerned Trader:''' ''Days we've waited for the latest delivery of food crates to Yura. Impossible to find reliable help these days.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Do you have stock to survive in the meantime?''
| |
| *'''Concerned Trader:''' ''Barely. If we are unable to meet the Imperial Family's demands, all of Awaji will feel our failure.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''If I runacross any of your food crates, I will have my allies send them back to Yura.''
| |
| *'''Concerned Trader:''' ''A rare gesture of kindness. Thank you!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A food crate. I should get someone to return it to Yura harbor.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Another food crate. I can send someone to take it to Yura harbor.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Last one. I should go back to Yura harbor and talk to that woman.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Concerned Trader:''' ''You're back! Stocks are secured, we've been able to honor our duties to the emperor. All thanks to you!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I am happy I could help. Will you be able to sustain deliveries now?''
| |
| *'''Concerned Trader:''' [sighs] ''I've learned that I can't trust my nephews, but I finally have reliable helpers. Oh, and I know it is not much, but please - take this, with all my gratitude.''
| |
|
| |
| ==All That We Leave Behind==
| |
| N/A
| |
| Though Yukari was defeated, some remnants of the Sanzuko Ippa still roam Awaji.
| |
| Naoe and Yasuke dealt with the last few members of the Sanzuko Ippa.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''A moment of your time? It's important.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''Concerning news. Remnants of the Sanzuko Ippa, soldiers, spies, low rank samurai... They wander without leaders.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This is concerning indeed. I have already dealt with the soldiers loyal to Tomeji. As for the others, I will see what can be done.''
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''Here, a lead on two of the groups. Good hunting, and be sure to return here when the Sanzoku Ippa are no more.''
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Position of the First Two Targets|Text=One of Yasuhira's contacts remains in Sumoto and is rumored to frequent the Hachiman Shrine.<br><br>A group of Nowaki's worst were also spotted heading towards the trail of the Naruto, southwest of Awaji.}}
| |
| [Kill all ambushers]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Nowaki's shinobi are no more. ''
| |
| [Kill them all]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That was the last of them. I should return to the safehouse and report back to Konatsu.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''Is it done?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''To the last of them. The threat of the Sanzoku Ippa is finally over.''
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' [sighs] ''A clean slate for Awaji and her people. The Sengoku clan will be pleased to learn of this. Thank you. We are all safer now.''
| |
|
| |
| ;Nowaki's Ambushers
| |
| With Nowaki gone, her shinobi have scattered across the island and now prey on the innocent.
| |
| *Ando Masamune
| |
| Masamune is a callous individual who enjoys stealing baby birds from their nests and eating them alive.
| |
| *Goto Ginpachi
| |
| He is a craftsman who makes exquisite carvings out of wood.
| |
| *Chiba Hachibei
| |
| He is a strangely repressed person who has an unhealthy secret obssession with masks.
| |
| *Suganuma Tenma
| |
| If their actions were not abhorrent enough, their refusal to bathe makes any interaction especially unpleasant.
| |
| *Inoue Yonekichi
| |
| Yonekichi specifically hunts rare animals before setting their hides on fire.
| |
| *Ishida Shota
| |
| Shota is a twitchy sort who suffers from head lice.
| |
| *Nitta Koheiji
| |
| He is a particularly vicious individual, brought low by an uncontrollable fear of poultry.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''There are Sanzoku Ippa ambushers nearby.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Some of Nowaki's ambushers linger here.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I must be careful. There are ambushers nearby.''
| |
|
| |
| ;Yasuhira's Spies
| |
| Since Yasuhira's demise, agents still loyal to his memory have hidden amongst the people of Awaji.
| |
| *Kobayakawa Heitaro
| |
| This high-minded villain is obssessed with poetry.
| |
| *Yamanouchi Tobei
| |
| Tobei is an overgrown child at heart who loves to watch puppet shows.
| |
| *So Sachihiko
| |
| Sachihiko is a pretentious sort who claims to be a connoisseur of sake. In reality, he is a drunk.
| |
| *Ryuzoji Den
| |
| Den is dainty of mind and collects bird feathers. She uses them to make beautiful artworks.
| |
| *Yamane Ichi
| |
| Ichi was secretly in love with Yasuhira and has vowed to hunt down and kill those responsible for his death.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It seems some remain loyal to Yasuhira.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''One of Yasuhira's spies...''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yasuhira's spies still plague this island.''
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Hide in Fukura Village|Text=Sister,<br><br>Now that your service to Yasuhira has ended, remain in Fukura Village. Hide among the fishermen. Do not fret. We found safety near roiling waters, but of the others by the river next to Kannoji Temple, we hear little.<br><br>There are rumors that it was you who betrayed us. I do not care, but others are out for blood.<br><br>Be cautious. We will see each other soon.}}
| |
| [Note found upon killing Ando Masamune]
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Spotted Spies|Text=Is that truly all that is left of Yasuhira's eyes? A single presence in Kamaguchi Village close to the Salt Farm and another in the Sumoto Town Docks? I always held that snake in high regard, but if his network fell so quickly...<br><br>No. There must be more.}}
| |
| [Note found upon killing Suganuma Tenma]
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Targets in Yura|Text=I will be brief. Sachihiko is in Yura, close to Minato Shrine. I believe that cur betrayed us. To the Igan or to the daimyo, I do not know, but there only remains a handful of us now. End him.<br><br>If any of Tomeji's thugs remain, they too will be in Yura, at the castle. Avoid if possible.}}
| |
| [Note found upon killing Kobayakawa Heitaro]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The last of Tomeji's forces have seized Yura's fort.''
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Agents West of Awaji|Text=Brothers! I have traced the path of betrayal back to the forces camped near the river by Kannoji Temple. I believe it was them, in league with Yamane, hiding in Fukura Village by the fishing ground. They sent word to the Sengoku clan of our locations.<br><br>Come! Come to me and we will build the Sanzoku Ippa anew.}}
| |
| [Note found upon killing Yamanouchi Tobei]
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Spotted Ambusher Groups|Text=Nowaki's yokai ambushed me twice. First, at a river close to Kannoji temple as I passed on the bridge. Then by the abandoned village at the end of the Trail of Eshima, north of the island. They thought I had betrayed the Sanzoku Ippa. Me!<br><br>I know it was that fool Ryuzoji Den. When the master died, it drove her mad. I will find her. And I will make her pay.}}
| |
| [Note found upon killing So Sachihiko]
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Agents in the North and in Sumoto|Text=My brother was not amongst the Nowaki forces in the abandoned village on the Trail of Eshima, north of the island, and I dared not remain in Sumoto as I spied Yamanouchi by the docks.<br><br>They believe me a traitor, but I would sooner die than betray my master. I have proof it was Yamanouchi but dare not show myself to present it.<br><br>I will find my brother, and we will leave this accursed isle together.}}
| |
| [Note found upon killing Ryuzoji Den]
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=A Spy in Yura|Text=Sachihiko is in Yura close to Minato Shrine, jumping at shadows and challenging children to duels. Kobayakawa is mad if he thinks that lunatic turned us in.<br><br>No. Someone betrayed us, betrayed my love, but it was more likely Heitaro himself, or perhaps Ryuzoji. I never did trust her.}}
| |
| [Note found upon killing Yamane Ichi]
| |
|
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Targets Hiding Spots|Text=More of our compatriots seen neat Kannoji temple by the river. Investigate.<br><br>Snake agent in Kamaguchi. West of the Salt Farm. Traitor? Kill anyway.<br><br>So few now. Passage off island? Ask around.}}
| |
| [Note found upon killing Nitta Koheiji]
| |
|
| |
| ==Turning the Tables==
| |
| N/A
| |
| Naoe goes to the shrine to force a confrontation with Nowaki.
| |
| Naoe killed Nowaki, depriving Yukari of her ambusher.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This is the shrine visited by Nowaki. She's not here yet. I should stay out of sight and wait.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You care more for the dead than the living.''
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''You!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I know about your sister!''
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' [gasps]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Not so quick to flee this time. If you want this trinket, face me.''
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''I will hack your tongue out! I'll pierce your eyes with bamboo!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Face me!''
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''Not... here. You must follow.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Now is my chance. I have to follow her.''
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''Just ahead.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Where are you taking me?''
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''Almost there...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Enough of this!''
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''Come. Come.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Where are we going?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' [laughs] ''Now you are in my world!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I need to concentrate. If I observe my surroundings, I can track Nowaki by her sounds.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I can use her own traps to bait her.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''I can touch you. Too easy.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''Welcome home...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''No!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''Try something new!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''Aaahhh!<br>I am your end!<br>You will die!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' [Screech]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''Where did I go?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''She is hurt! I can attack from range now.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''These are my hunting grounds!<br>No, not there.<br>Do you see me? Look.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''No!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''One with the shadows.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' ''Missed missed missed!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Perhaps now, you may finally be at rest.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Nowaki's Memento|Text=Hid it. My sister's blade. In the hiding place I made.<br><br>The fork in the road west of Kamaguchi Village, the one with the five stone lanterns. The trees point the way and there it lies. Her teeth. Her wrath. <br><br>Suma is remembered. By all of us.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That's one. Two taisho still remain.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Trouble with the Regalia==
| |
| Tsuyu was tasked with retrieving the Regalia, but she didn't join the others near the tenshu. Is she in trouble?
| |
| While Yasuke battles Yukari, Naoe goes to support Tsuyu.
| |
| Naoe and Tsuyu returned the regalia to the Emperor.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I must find my mother, and the regalia.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Hmm... Tsuyu was here. The regalia too. I have to find her.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tsuyu definitely passed this way. But why did she leave the castle?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Soldier 1:''' ''You are pathetic. Killing you will be a mercy.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Soldier 2:''' ''Attack!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [breathes]
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''I am so sorry, Naoe. I failed you.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I don't need you to be the ultimate warrior. I just need you to be... my mother.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''But... a warrior is all I've ever been. I never learned how to be a mother.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Then we will practice together. Train. How to be mother and daughter. Every day.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''That, I can do. You have made me so proud, Naoe. You recovered all three regalia, righted my own failing, and you did it all on your own.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Well... not all on my own.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [breathes] ''You are both all right. I saw the bodies...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We're fine. And you?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yukari is defeated, though her forces have scattered.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''They will remain a threat to Awaji's people.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yes. Something we should deal with.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''We should get the box back to the Sakafune-ishi Ruins in Yamato for safekeeping with the others.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [breathes] ''No. The Assassins were entrusted with the regalia in a time of turmoil. That time is near its end. If this country is to ever be whole again, then its heart must be reunited with its body.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You are going to return the regalia to the emperor.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''It's where they belong.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Very well. What will you do first?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We should return the regalia. They are our priority. Their safety is paramount.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''I agree.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Their return is a sacred honor. I will leave it to you.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I will meet you when it's done. Let's finish this.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''A future I never imagined is finally within reach... thanks to you. And now... what's an old warrior to do?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You've earned a rest. Go home. To our home.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''To Iga? Yes. Perhaps I'll hear Nagato's song whispering through the trees while I tend to Matsu's garden.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'll come see you when I have time. I'm meeting Junjiro and Yasuke.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''They are your family. Don't keep them waiting.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' [laughs]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Yasuke! Yasuke! Naoe returned the regalia to the emperor!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''And were you able to convince her to sneak you inside the palace?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''She wanted to put me in a sack.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''Did she, now...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The Regalia are back where they belong. It is done.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [sighs] ''This country will soon be at peace.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Soon, but not yet. There's still work to be done!''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [laughs] ''So there is.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Then we should get back to it.''
| |
|
| |
|
| |
| ==The Regalia==
| |
| Tsuyu hid the regalia in a secure place in Awaji, locking it away and entrusting the key to a local bo master.
| |
| Naoe goes to recover the regalia Tsuyu hid in Awaji all those years ago.
| |
| Ambushed by Yukari and her taisho, Naoe was forced to hand over the regalia in exchange for Yasuke's life.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The regalia is close, now. Tsuyu mentioned a waterfall...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Your mother said that she hid the regalia in a cave behind that waterfall.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''My mother. Tsuyu. I had this idea of who she was - what a mother is supposed to be. But now... Now she is real. My mother, but also... a stranger.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You spent 15 years building a fantasy. Give yourself some time. Both of you. Hattori Hanzo.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You came. I found her.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''I've been watching. But so has Yukari. She and her taisho are on your trail.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Her spies are everywhere. Go, Naoe. I will do my best to hold them off if they arrive before you emerge.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''And I will delay them if I can.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This crack could lead somewhere interesting.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''At last, the regalia!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You have just made your biggest mistake.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [breathes]
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''When your friend here broke your mother out of my prison, I was quite put out. But I knew she would never leave this island without the regalia. And now it's mine.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Don't give it to her, Naoe! It is too important. Don't-'' [winces]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''If I give it to you, you'll just kill us both.''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''Do you know what's in that box? Power. The freedom to make your own destiny. I couldn't care less about you.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' [grunts]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You won't get far.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''All I've endured... All these years...'' [sighs]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The regalia is yours. Now let us go.''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''I don't think so. Kill them.''
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' [grunts]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard:''' [winces]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [pants]
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' [gasps]
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''Kill them!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [gasps]
| |
| *'''Nowaki:''' [grunts]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [pants] ''Damn.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''Too late.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Soldiers:''' ''You should never have gone against Yukari!<br>You stand no chance!<br>I will destroy you!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [pants]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [groans]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Are you all right?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yukari acts without honor. We cannot allow her to leave the island.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We won't. Now that we've seen all she has to offer, we can hunt her down.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''Tsuyu will want to take on the hunt herself.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''She can barely walk. She's wounded.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''Tsuyu trained Nagato, Sandayu... even me. She was our commander. She will try to take charge. But Yukari has stolen years from her.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Years we will take back. She will regain her strength.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''My friend, I have seen people waste away in their chains. And even once freed... your mother may never regain what she lost. And that is something that any warrior would have trouble accepting.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''She was raised to believe that she was the only one who could save this country.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''And now... she can't.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You must show her that you can do what she can do no longer.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''But she still sees you as that little girl she left behind in Iga.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [scoffs] ''And now I will prove that I am still that little girl when I tell her what happened here.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You will not be alone when you do so. A share of the blame lies with me.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''I cannot come with you. Tsuyu will become enraged if you even mention my name. But seek me out in Sumoto Town if you need my help.''
| |
| [play as naoe]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We should return to the safe house.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yes, I will meet you there.''
| |
|
| |
| ==A Shinobi on Awaji==
| |
| Arriving on Awaji, Naoe investigates her mother's whereabouts in the coastal town of Sumoto.
| |
| Naoe arrives on the island of Awaji, seeking information on her mother's whereabouts.
| |
| Despite the lack of help from the locals, Naoe discovered that her mother was being kept at Sumoto Castle.
| |
|
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Awaji. If the lead from the puppet show is true, Tsuyu is somewhere on this island.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Excuse me.''
| |
| *'''Civilian 1:''' ''What are you doing here?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Excuse me.''
| |
| *'''Civilian 2:''' ''Leave me. Just leave.''
| |
| [eavesdrop]
| |
| *'''Civilian 3:''' ''I tell you, that forest is haunted.''
| |
| *'''Civilian 4:''' ''Those rumors are older than either of us, yet there is still no truth to them.''
| |
| *'''Civilian 3:''' ''How do you explain all the missing people?''
| |
| *'''Civilian 4:''' ''The forest has its dangers, but ghosts are not one of them.''
| |
| [stops eavesdropping]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''No, I need to keep looking.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Hello.''
| |
| *'''Civilian 5:''' ''Leave me be!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Excuse me.''
| |
| *'''Civilian 6:''' ''Not another one. Go away!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Hello.''
| |
| *'''Civilian 7:''' ''I shouldn't be seen talking to you.''
| |
| [Eavesdrop]
| |
| *'''Carpenter:''' ''Ah, my work is finally done.''
| |
| *'''Citizen:''' ''Did you finish the order?''
| |
| *'''Carpenter:''' ''Indeed. I have never built so strong a door. Not even the shinobi it holds could break it.''
| |
| *'''Citizen:''' ''Was our lady satisfied?''
| |
| *'''Carpenter:''' ''I was to receive a report but... I sent Taro to the Samurai Residence hours ago.''
| |
| *'''Citizen:''' ''Let us go there then, collect it ourselves!''
| |
| *'''Carpenter:''' ''No, we will wait. I have seen what Lady Yukari does to those who defy her.''
| |
| [stops eavesdropping]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A report in the Samurai Residence? I should look for it.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Hello!''
| |
| *'''Civilian 8:''' ''Leave me alone.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Excuse me.''
| |
| *'''Civilian 9:''' ''The answer is no.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''So many guards...<br>I do not recognize the armor these guards wear...''
| |
| [eavesdrop]
| |
| *'''Inn Keeper:''' ''Please accept my most humblest apologies but we have no more of that particular beverage.''
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''You disrespect me! I should throw you to that caged shinobi! Bah. I was done with this stinking place anyway.''
| |
| [stop eaves]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Could the prisoner they speak of be my mother? I can learn more... But I must not draw attention to myself.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''Out of my way, idiot!''
| |
| *'''Civilian 10:''' ''Please don't hurt me! Mercy!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard 2:''' ''Greetings, sir. Pass right through.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Civilian 11:''' ''I don't know what you're looking for! Please, don't kill me!''
| |
| *'''Guard 3:''' ''You're a traitor and will die like one! You can't run from me, girl!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Oh!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard ?:''' ''Walk lightly from now on.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''You! Get out of here before you feel the flat of my hand!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Back at the inn, you mentioned a shinobi.''
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' [groans] ''Am I not allowed a single moment of peace? Leave. Now.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tell me where the shinobi is, or I will take your head.''
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''You may try!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tell me or die!''
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''Sumoto castle, under the tenshu!''
| |
| [Going to look for the report]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This is the place. I should look for clues about the prisoner.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Update on the Shinobi|Text=The new door installed under the Sumoto Castle Tenshu is of satisfactory quality. The shinobi was seen examining it extensively before returning to her corner to brood.<br><br>We may finally have broken her spirit.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The prisoner is a shinobi, held beneath the tenshu for several years now. A shinobi... Surely it is Tsuyu?''
| |
| [Note: both getting the report and beating up the guard trigger the end of the memory]
| |
|
| |
| ==A Snake in the Shrine==
| |
| N/A
| |
| Naoe meets with Hanzo one last time before going after Yasuhira.
| |
| Naoe killed Yasuhira, depriving Yukari of her spymaster.
| |
|
| |
| *'''Hattori Hanzo:''' ''I have pieced together this particular puzzle.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tell me everything.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''The black masks. The kosode. They are linked to a meeting at a shrine commandered by Yasuhira. A gathering of his inner circle, I believe.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Then we must behead this snake before he poisons any more of Awaji's people. What will be our approach?''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''It is your choice.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''In disguise, I could blend in.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''A prudent choice, and a chance for some truth at last. Good luck.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yasuhira. I must find him.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard:''' ''Halt!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard:''' ''Very well. You may go now.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''If I can lure Yasuhira away from prying eyes, I may gain valuable information before eliminating him.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That is most certainly the man I am after. That's him. Yasuhira.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''That is a lie, my friend. Your mask hides your face, but not your eyes. Remember always to wear a mask beneath your mask, if you hope to learn the truth of things.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Not now.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Master, please. I must speak with you away from this crowd.''
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Look around you. Everyone here wants my time. But for what reason shall I grant it? Hmm. Walk among those gathered here with your ears open. Learn something of value to me. Perhaps a morsel omitted in their report to me.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Thank you for this opportunity to prove myself. You will soon see what I am capable of.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Spy:''' ''Need to hide these instructions, lest someone steal them.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I should follow that spy.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Spy:''' ''There, now my lead is secure. Only I can deliver it to Yukari.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=A Traitor Uncovered|Text=There is a traitor among our ranks. Shokichi has convened with our enemies and is actively seeking a way off Awaji.<br><br>Whoever brings the news to Yukari will be well-rewarded.}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Good.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Spy 2:''' ''Hey you! Looking to impress the master? I can help.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Spy 2:''' ''I see you, friend. Trying to impress the master. Perhaps I can be of assistance?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''How do I know I can trust you?''
| |
| *'''Spy 2:''' ''You don't. But knowledge is power. Let us help each other, a rumor for a rumor.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''There was a traitor, Shokichi. He consorted with Hattori Hanzo himself.''
| |
| *'''Spy 2:''' ''Ah Shokichi. He never was the sharpest of blades... Very well. Fair's fair. Do you know of the escaped shinobi, Tsuyu? Apparently, she is based out of Sumoto Town these days. And now we are even.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Thank you. That was surprisingly easy.''
| |
| *'''Spy 2:''' ''Just because I am a spy does not mean I have no honor. Most of the time. Our time together is at an end. Thank you. And if anyone asks... I told you nothing.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This looks valuable. They know of our Sumoto safehouse. I need to throw them off the scent.''
| |
| []
| |
| [There might be a fragment missing here]
| |
| *'''Spy 3:''' ''Quiet! Follow me. Let us find somewhere more secluded to talk.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That sounds promising. I should follow them.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Spy 4:''' ''Surely we are safe here?''
| |
| *'''Spy 3:''' ''How many times must I tell you! Lower your voice. Come!''
| |
| *'''Spy 4:''' ''Tell me.''
| |
| *'''Spy 3:''' ''When the taisho confronted the shinobi and the outlander, the master ran! Yukari is furious!''
| |
| *'''Spy 4:''' ''That is a tasty morsel...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Interesting. I'd better get back to Yasuhira and finish this.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Spy 5:''' ''What of Shokichi?''
| |
| *'''Spy 6:''' ''I've heard differing accounts. But his name never comes up without mention of Hattori Hanzo.''
| |
| *'''Spy 7:''' ''And he's not the only one. The all-knowing Yasuhira has many men plotting his...''
| |
| *'''Spy 6:''' ''Shh. Don't use his name. But you're right. Our master's time is at hand, it seems.''
| |
| *'''Spy 5:''' ''Still too late for poor Shokichi.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I already know this lead.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Spy 8:''' ''Every one of us is desperate to earn his favor with news of Tsuyu's location.''
| |
| *'''Spy 9:''' ''And yet he refuses any audience. Yasuhira will learn of her Sumoto town foxhole from my lips alone.''
| |
| *'''Spy 8:''' ''Lips that soon will taste a better grade of sake.''
| |
| *'''Spy 9:''' ''And from my cup to yours. Be patient.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I already know this lead.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Spy 10:''' ''Even the master is not without his faults, it seems.''
| |
| *'''Spy 11:''' ''Your meaning?''
| |
| *'''Spy 10:''' ''When Lady Yukari confronted Nobunaga's giant and the Igan... he ran.''
| |
| *'''Spy 11:''' ''The master did?''
| |
| *'''Spy 10:''' ''With all haste.''
| |
| *'''Spy 11:''' ''Well, it appears this time he may have actually earned Yukari's ire.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I already know this lead.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''I did not imagine you would return so quickly. Now, tell me, what have those who should have kept their mouth shut babbled?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Some spoke of Lady Yukari's fickle favor, and how perhaps you have fallen from it.''
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Indeed.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''They say you ran. From confrontation.''
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Even someone with all the knowledge in the world is capable of making mistakes. I will rectify this.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''There were those who spoke of betrayal.''
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Shokichi.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yes. And others besides.''
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''I am well aware of the threats to my person, both from without and within. But I do appreciate the confirmation.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''There is much talk of Tsuyu's location on Awaji. Rumors abound she hides in... Yura.''
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Hmm, is that so? I had heard rumblings of Sumoto, but Yura... Yes. Yes, that makes sense. Valuable information indeed. Very well. I have not learned much, only that you interest me. Come with me. I will allow you a... sliver of my time.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Come then, my dove. Speak the words you think I want to hear.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Thank you, master. Every moment with you is a chance to add another of your skills to my own. I have learned of a dangerous man. He is a threat and must be eliminated. I intend to do it. I have no doubt that, alone, my blade would find him quickly enough. Yet I fear drawing a dozen of his men upon me.''
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Yes. I see.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Have you considered a sleeping draught, for example? ''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''A sedative. Of course. There are so many ways to get within striking range. I have much to learn.''
| |
| [Yasuhira approached her.]
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''And I have so much to teach...''
| |
| [Naoe slapped the mask off his face.]
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [gasps] ''You?!''
| |
| She removed her own mask.
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Well well. You are an impressive specimen.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''And you are Kadenokoji Juro Harima-no-Kami Yasuhira, Spymaster of Awaji.''
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''Call me... Yasu. Your mother did. We were close, her and I. You know, I have never met so resilient a woman. One who required such varied... persuasions.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Stop.''
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' [laughs] ''All the traditional methods were useless. I had to try everything. Even gave her to that creature Nowaki for a while. The fun they had.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Words. That's all you have. That's all you are. Words and stories and secrets. Behind it all, a little man, hiding behind a mask.''
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' ''What do you think behind your mother's mask? Hmm... Naoe? Loyalty?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Devotion. To her family and her oath. And you stole both from her.''
| |
| [Yasuhira attempts to stab Naoe, but she quickly slices through his neck with her Hidden Blade.]
| |
| *'''Yasuhira:''' [winces] [gurgles]
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Yasuhira's Secret|Text=The boats are prepared. My escape route.<br><br>I have hidden a disguise under the twisted tree by the boat on the west coast, near the Sumoto and Fukura regions.<br><br>Yukari's obsession with that trinket could still ber her undoing. But it will not be mine...}}
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yasuhira's death brings us one step closer to Yukari. And just as he was closing in on our safehouse. Everyone is safer with those prying eyes blinded.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Puppet Show==
| |
| On the advice of Hattori Hanzo, Naoe and Junjiro travel to watch a mysterious puppet show.
| |
| Hattori Hanzo sent word of a possible lead on Tsuyu's location, leading Naoe to Settsu.
| |
| Naoe decided to head to Awaji in search of her mother and the final imperial regalia.
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''I am Konatsu, in the service of Hattori Hanzo.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [sighs]
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''He sent me to inform you of a puppet show in Settsu that may be a lead to finding your mother.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''A puppet show!?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''How does a puppet show help me find Tsuyu?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Naoe, let's go! We'll find out when we get there!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Will Hanzo be there?''
| |
| *'''Konatsu:''' ''He follows another thread and has entrusted this one to you.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Thank you.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I am happy for you, my friend. I know this is something you have been seeking a long time. How do you wish to proceed?''
| |
| [play as naoe]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''If there is a chance this puppet show brings me to Tsuyu, I must seek it out.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''I'm going to get ready. I'll meet you at the show!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I should visit this puppet show and see what Hanzo has found.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Naoe!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''You're here! Let's go!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Come on! But they have to set up first.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''This place is beautiful!''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''We're not here for beauty, we're here for the puppet show! Hurry, Naoe! We don't want to miss the puppet show!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'm sure we will be there in time.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Never trust a fox spirit. They are too cunning for their own good.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Not always, Naoe. I've heard that some of them make for loyal guardians and true friends.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Monk:''' ''The puppet master is not yet ready. In the meantime, you may explore the garden.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I hope I never meet a real oni.''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''I've seen you angry, Naoe. Maybe the oni should be scared!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Do you hear me, Ebisu!''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' [gasps]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [laughs] ''Ebisu is a little death, so one must pray loudly to him.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Considering Puppets|Text=Brothers,<br><br>Many of you have expressed misgivings about the opening of our sanctuary for today's performance.<br><br>Be assured, puppets hold a great significance in the prayers for Ebisu on Awaji Island. For this reason, permitted this event to take place within the proximity of our sacred grounds.<br><br>May this spectacle draw greater attention to our shrine and enhance its splendor.}}
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Child:''' [cries]
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''That poor girl has lost her toy in the koi pond. Maybe you can get it back?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Child:''' ''Oh, thank you!''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Well done, Naoe.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Remember how you once thought I was a demon?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' [laughs]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''Hurry Naoe, they are about to start!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Heed my call, my esteemed friends! As I recall the epic story of Awaji Island and the greedy shinobi who visited its shores.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''In a time long past, on the great waves near Awaji Island, a beautiful Maiden arrived, summoned by her sense of destiny.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''The island had called to her, as if fate itself had brought her to its shores.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Tales of her arrival spread, and soon the highest halls of power rang with tales of her beauty.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Before long she was granted an audience with the lord of the island himself.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Within the castle's embrace, she met and fell in love with the daimyo.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''From that moment onward, she was cherished by the island's people, her spirit intertwined with theirs.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Soon, the Maiden called on her champion and his friends to stand againt the evils ravaging the island.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''The brave warriors roamed the land, their resolve as unyielding as their blades.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Scoundrels and bandits, thieves and ne'er-do-wells. The brave warriors faced them all.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Many obstacles blocked their path...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''But nothing could stand against their determination.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Their valor brought peace, a moment's breath in the endless dance between lightness and dark.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''There were those who rejected the new tranquility brought by the Maiden and her champions.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''With a heavy heart the champion brought them low, and balance was restored. But then, as now, peace is a fragile thing. Soon to be shattered by the arrival of a wicked shinobi.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Driven by greed, this shinobi set her ravenous gaze on Awaji's treasures. Through forests and caves she hunted, drawn by the allure of the one treasure she sought above all others.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Gifted with an unnatural agility, no one was safe from the interloper's steely grasp.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''She hid in the unlikeliest of places, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Like an onryo she stalked the land, unseen and unheard.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Silence was her companion, and darkness followed in her wake.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''She was unstoppable, a shadow heading ever closer to the heart of Awaji.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Closer she came. Closer to the one treasure she coveted.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Some claimed to have spotted her!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Those who confronted her were never seen again.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Eventually she reached the Maiden's castle itself.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Her greed knew no bounds, and she knew no fear.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''Armed with a hidden blade, her actions cast a great sorrow over the island.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''But the Maiden had foreseen the coming of the shinobi, and had laid a trap for her.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Puppet Master:''' ''And so, the treacherous shinobi was locked away forevermore.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The shinobi... Could she be my mother?''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' [gasps] ''Your mother is that horrible shinobi?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You heard how her weapon was described. ''
| |
| *'''Junjiro:''' ''What are you going to do?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'm going to Awaji. If Tsuyu is there, I have to find her.''
| |
|
| |
| ==Prison Break==
| |
| Yasuke assaults Sumoto Castle in the hope of rescuing the captured shinobi.
| |
| Yasuke breaks into Sumoto Castle to free Naoe and Tsuyu.
| |
| In relative safety, Tsuyu tasked Naoe with retrieving the key to the imperial regalia's hiding place.
| |
|
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Hmm... I am lucky to have survived that.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Naoe must be close.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Naoe? Is that you?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You got here quick.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Well, you did run off without me...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yasuke, this is my mother, Tsuyu.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It is an honor.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''We will have time for a proper reunion later. For now, let us leave. Quickly!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Before we escape I'll need to retrieve my gear - without alerting the guard.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Go. Collect your belongings. I will remain here with Tsuyu.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''No. I will go with Naoe to show her the way. She'll need my help.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You're still weak. Stay here. Just tell me where to go.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Very well. They're close by.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I am defenseless without my weapons.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''One caged shinobi was bad enough, now we have two! Not to mention the new one is friends with Oda Nobunaga's giant.''
| |
| *'''Guard 2:''' ''More oni than man, from what I hear.''
| |
| *'''Guard 1:''' ''Don't worry. Even if the giant comes, we have the numbers to deal with them.''
| |
| *'''Guard 2:''' ''I'm not so sure about that. We shall see.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''There, my equipment.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Now to clear the way for Tsuyu and Yasuke.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Silly girl, Naoe.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''The way is clear. I should tell the others.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I don't hear any alarms.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''No, we remain undetected. My only challenge was keeping Tsuyu from rushing to your aid.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''I know this castle well. I would have made short work of the guards.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I believe you. But you were in that room a long time.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Not so long I forgot my training.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It was only a matter of time until they discovered you were missing. Go. I will hold them off and join you up ahead.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Over here, you fools! Ha! You think you can beat me?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I hope that was enough of a distraction...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''We must proceed carefully. Follow me.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Hold. Wait for them to pass.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard:''' ''He's in the courtyard! Men, with me!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''A little longer...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''He's in our way. Get rid of him.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Wait. Another guard.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Let's move.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Two more.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Let's go.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Once Yasuke joins us, he will need an exit.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That platform by the gate. I can climb up and lower it.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Yasuke! Protect Naoe!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Hurry, Naoe! Drop that platform!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Just a little longer!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Naoe! Behind you!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yasuke! Get across!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' ''Outlander! I am Imagawa Tomeji. You offer me the chance to avenge my Lord Kei.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Kei was a Templar. I freed you from his service.''
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' ''My oath to him now binds me to his daughter. A Templar in name, yet... lacking her father's vision. Still... a samurai must serve his oaths.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [breathes]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' ''Your skill is impressive!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [breathes]
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' ''You... You live up to your legend. [breathes] I am no match for a legend. Which is why I brought an army.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [breathes]
| |
| *'''Tomeji:''' [grunts]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [grunts] ''Yasuke! Come on!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [breathes]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [screams]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Tsuyu!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [screams]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Tsuyu! What happened?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''There is no time! Right now, we need horses!''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''There are some by the gates!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Watch out for the arrows!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' [pants]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [pants] [gasps]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Come!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Where do we go next?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Do not worry! I know a place!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [winces]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''We should be safe here. For now.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We should get her home.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Yukari will tear this island apart looking for me, and for the regalia.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''It is on Awaji?''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Both of you remain here. Alone, I can move undetected. This will not take long.''
| |
| She attempted to get up, but the pain forced her to sit down again.
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' [sighs]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''You're not just wounded, you're malnourished. You need to rest.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''I will rest when the regalia is safe from Yukari and her Templars.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''We have faced Templars. I recognized their mark on Yukari's taisho, Tomeji. I have pledged to hunt them down wherever they might be.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Let us recover the Sword.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [sighs] ''I hid the regalia under Myoshoji Temple, in a cave behind the waterfall. Look for my mark. To reach the cave, you will need the key. I entrusted it to Bo Master Taguchi Myoga. He will give you its location, but only if you manage to best him. Here.''
| |
| Tsuyu gave Naoe her bo.
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''He may even train you, given that I cannot.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We will train together, when our job is done.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''An Assassin's job is never done, Naoe. After I have made one of you, you will understand.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''We have what we need. We will recover that key, then head to Myoshoji for the Sword.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Then go. And remember that on this island, you are no longer the hunters. You are the hunted.''
| |
| [play as naoe]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I'll find this bo master, get the key, and maybe learn about the bo.''
| |
|
| |
| ==The Final Assault==
| |
| N/A
| |
| Having defeated all of Yukari's taisho and weakened her in various ways, Naoe and Yasuke begin their assault on Iwaya Castle.
| |
| Naoe broke the castle's barricade, allowing Yasuke entrance. Yasuke then battled and defeated Yukari, killing her.
| |
|
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''We have done all we can to weaken Yukari. We should begin the assault.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Naoe. Awaji is brimming with tales of Yukari's imminent downfall. You have followed all leads and Yukari is exposed. The assault will be easier now. When you are ready, we may begin the assault.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We are ready.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Good. And Yasuke?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I stand with you.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''Since the removal of her taisho, Yukari's grip on Awaji has loosened.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The people no longer see her as inevitable.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''We've learned that she is at Iwaya Castle.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Our scouts report new fortifications there, and many soldiers.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''I will infiltrate her stronghold and grant Yukari the end she deserves.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yukari has hidden the regalia within the castle. Recovering it should be your priority.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''You don't think I can handle her...''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Yasuke will handle Yukari.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''I owe her a debt.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''As I owe all Templars.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Protecting the regalia - that was your oath, was it not?''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' [scoffs] ''Very well.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''A direct assault will fail so long as Yukari's barricade stands.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''How do you plan on reaching the barricade?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I will use the mask and kosode I found and find a way past the guards.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''I would have done the same.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''We have an ally inside Iwaya. She will know where to find the supplies I can use to burn the barricade.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The flames will be my signal to attack. They will also alert the garrison, which should draw forces away from Tsuyu.''
| |
| *'''Tsuyu:''' ''The distraction will allow me to infiltrate the castle and find the Sword.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I will clear the path. Yasuke will take down Yukari. Then I will move to help Tsuyu secure the regalia.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''In the belly of the beast...''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Iwaya Guard 1:''' ''I thought the spymaster was dead!''
| |
| *'''Iwaya Guard 2:''' ''Those are the rumors.''
| |
| *'''Iwaya Guard 1:''' ''And now one of his agents arrives from nowhere?''
| |
| *'''Iwaya Guard 3:''' ''Good news, surely?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''That must be her.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo's Agent:''' ''You made it through.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Our disguises hold for now, but there are more eyes here than you know.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo's Agent:''' ''Perhaps you are correct. Yukari ordered the guard tripled.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Now her taisho are gone, she shows her true face. To the matter at hand. The barricade.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo's Agent:''' ''Yes. There are materials that should help you set the barricade ablaze.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Thank you. When the barricade is alight... you should leave. Quickly.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I need to find the materials to destroy that barricade.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Page from Yukari's Diary|Text=My teppo are sabotaged, my men poisoned, and the filthy locals have risen. All the work of the Igans, and the outlander who butchered father.<br><br>I will not stray from my path. I will not falter.<br><br>I am Kimura. My destiny awaits.}}
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Iwaya Captain:''' ''We are Lady Yukari's last line of defense! We will remain strong! We will be victorious!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''There must be something here that will help me demolish the barricade.<br>Lantern oil.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard:''' ''What about Mosuke? Is he here?''
| |
| *'''Guard 2:''' ''No! None of them reported for duty!''
| |
| *'''Guard:''' ''How are we meant to defend the castle with so few men?''
| |
| *'''Guard 2:''' ''I don't know! I just hope Lady Yukari does.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Spoiled Supplies|Text=DO NOT EAT TODAY'S RATIONS!<br><br>The most recent shipment has turned, many have fallen comatose after consuming a single bite. Whether this is the work of nature or our foes we cannot tell, but we must remain vigilant.<br><br>An empty stomach is preferable to a poisoned one.}}
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''I ordered the guards be tripled!''
| |
| *'''Yukari's Attendant:''' ''Lady Yukari, these are all who remain. I called for more but...'' [winces]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yukari's Attendant:''' [gurgles]
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''Ingrate. My patience is long since spent. You there, see if he spoke the truth. My task is nearly complete. I will not falter now. I cannot.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard:''' ''How am I supposed to fight without my teppo? How am I supposed to fire my teppo without powder? We were supposed to receive new supplies!''
| |
| *'''Guard 2:''' ''With all the taisho gone, who knows what happened to such valuable equipment.''
| |
| []
| |
| {{IUNote|Title=Sabotaged Teppo|Text=The teppo are not coming.<br><br>Reports from Yura state that the whole shipment is ruined. One poor soul lost his nose to a vackfire and the rest of the things are just as unreliable.<br><br>Without them we are severely reduced. We are vulnerable.<br><br>If we leave now, perhaps it will go unnoticed?}}
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''There. Come on, Yasuke. Now it's your turn.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''She has done it! The barricade is down!''
| |
| *'''Hattori Hanzo:''' ''Then it is time.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The assault begins! Forward now! Put your swords to work!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Guard:''' ''The barricade is on fire! Ha! What is happening?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''How many are there? Yukari has amassed an army!'' [breathes] ''These men hold nothing back!''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''The assault advances. Did you encounter any obstacles?''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Not as many as you, it seems.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Not obstacles. Complications.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''We have done well.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''With the Oni Hanzo at our back, how could we fail? I believe that kosode has outlived its usefulness. I brought your equipment.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Thank you.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I must get to Yukari. Hanzo, can you remain here and defend the rear?''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' [grunts]
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''I have not seen my mother. She may have already found her way to the regalia.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I would not doubt it. Your mother is a remarkable warrior, my friend. Go. Find her. I will deal with Yukari.''
| |
| *'''Hanzo:''' ''And I will ensure none of Yukari's Sanzoku Ippa forces will disturb you.''
| |
| *'''Naoe:''' ''Take care. And I'll see you after.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Yukari is owed vengeance... but her tyranny ends tonight.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Where is Yukari?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Your father taught you to fight.''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''I was his first student. Some say his greatest.''
| |
| Yasuke bowed to her.
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Kei died with honor. I am here to present you the same opportunity.''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' [laughs] ''Vengeance? Is that what you think I'm after? Killing Templars has just helped me climb the ranks. I should thank you.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''I have done you no favors. Look where you are - left with nothing, no one by your side.''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''You think Tsuyu is by your side? Do you think Nobunaga was truly by your side?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''Lord Nobunaga showed me a future for this country.''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''Ah yes. A great man of the people whose humble goal was total domination.''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''And what do you seek beyond your own gratification?''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''What else is there? Someone will always be on top of the pile, Yasuke. So, why not me?''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' [winces] [breathes]
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' [roars] ''What is it then? What binds you to Tsuyu?''
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''An Assassin saved my life. I am in their debt.''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''The Assassins, they are all fanatics. Delusional! You want a cause to serve? Serve yourself.''
| |
| []
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' [hurts] [breathes]
| |
| *'''Yasuke:''' ''You stood alone, and now you fall alone.''
| |
| *'''Yukari:''' ''I fell pursuing my own destiny. Unlike you. [breathes] Your "honorable" deeds lost to time. Your presence... ...a shadow.'' [dies]
| |
|
| |
| --> | | --> |
|
| |
|
I.N.J. Culbard
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