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Assassin's Creed: Shadows memories
< 15 7:58 Turning the Tables • 8:37 Trouble with the Regalia • 8:46 The Regalia • 12:31 A Snake in the Shrine • 13:54 Sweet Revenge • 13:57 The Leaf Turns • 14:10 A Blade in the Dark • 14:25 A Shinobi on Awaji
< 20 15:26 End of the Line • 15:29 Topple the Traitor • 15:45 Darkness Falls • 15:50 The Lesson • 16:07 Dismantling One by One • 16:26 The Yokai • 16:29 Kurai Eikyou • 16:53 The Final Assault • 17:57 The Tournament • 18:10 Genzaburo's Soldiers • 19:50 The Puppet Show
> 20 20:22 Yamabushi Imposters • 20:34 Out of the Shadows • 21:37 A Promise • 22:22 Silver Smugglers • 22:50 Prison Break • 23:56 The Winter Raiders • 25:38 The Hunters of Kyonyo • 38:47 The Pirate Alliance

Non-canon memories:

• Defensive Position (alternate assassination for Yaita Wakasa)
• The Jounin Pillow Book (Katsuhime romance)

Formatting

The Reunion

A shinobi has been held on Awaji for years. It is time to set her free.

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... [] This must be where they keep the shinobi. [] Tsuyu? [gasps] [gasps] Naoe rushes over to her mother and begins cutting her free. [gasps] Naoe? [gasps] It's me. I'm here to save you. My Naoe... No... No, no... You shouldn't have come. [breathes] 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 [smokes] 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] Tsuyu. [sighs] Come. Let me have a look at you. [breathes] You've grown. Last I saw you... I was a little girl. A rambunctious one, face always covered in mud. [a pause] I was told you were dead. I believed it until I found the message you left for chichiue. So... Nagato's obligation passed to you. Tell me. How did he die? He died defending me. Then he asked too much of you. If only I had been there... Those responsible paid with their lives. Your father's heart was like no other. I will mourn him, when the time is right. [breathes] You've been here all this time? [sighs] Kept alive by Yukari because she hopes to discover where I hid the Sword. The final regalia! I have already recovered the other two. The Jewel and the Mirror are safe. Then the work is nearly done. We will find it. Together we will reunite all three regalia. You have the spirit of an Assassin. I will appreciate the help. But first we must find a way out of this place. I'm sure we won't have long to wait. Let me tell you about my friend...

Mayu's Offerings

Oh, little one. Of all you Ojizo-sama, I seem to visit you the most. [] Oh. Hello. If I may, are you a traveler? Or are you lost... Naoe. A bit of both. A bit of neither. [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. Figuratively or literally? I find one usually accompanies the other. So you are a traveler who has lost her way. Or perhaps you're waiting for someone. You dodged my question. I did. Not long ago, I lost my way. But I found purpose moving forward. 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. How will you know I've done as you asked? 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] Hello again, Mayu. Something tells me you've already made progress. I have. Before you told me I dodged your question, but in truth, you dodged mine. 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. I'm sorry. It's never easy. We lose some of ourselves in the process, I think. Take a small token for your efforts. And your company. Thank you. Come back after you pay respects to more Jizo statues. All, if you can. [After honoring 35 statues] Hello again, Mayu. You know, it's almost as if some statues don't want to be found. [laughs] I could relate to that for some time. 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. Losing someone that close... it's hard to shake that darkness. I know. Healing takes time. But we will get there. And if I may, take another small token of thanks. Thank you. Come back after you pay respects to more Jizo statues. All, if you can. [After honoring all 69 statues] Hello again, Mayu. Don't tell me. You've paid respects to every statue? Is this another "intuition of a kindred spirits" thing? I sense fulfillment. In you, and in myself. Honoring these little statues taught me so much on my pilgrimage. Did they teach you? We all find ourselves on unsure paths. But those paths are beginnings, not endings. Exactly. I've never met anyone else who has completed the pilgrimage. A final token of my gratitude for your compassion. Wherever your path takes you, I hope you find what you're looking for. 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. Be a traveler, Mayu. But know you are not lost. 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 Tsuyu said the bow master should be around here. [] Taguchi Myoga Another wanderer come to learn the art of the bo, I presume? I am Fujibayashi Naoe, daughter of Tsuyu. I am here for the key she entrusted to you. Are you now? Yes, I do see the resemblance. I wonder if it is more than skin deep. Please, I must have that key before Kimura Yukari finds us. Ah, but there is still impatience there. I can work with this. Tsuyu mentioned I must best you. If that is what it will take... All in good time. First, tell me, do you have experience with the bo? I trained with Bo Master Meiran. Briefly. How fortunate for you. His skills are legendary for good reason. Very well. If you want the key, prove to me you are Fujibayashi. [] Please. Demonstrate your skills with the bo. Practice your high, neutral, and low stances with my student here. [] Good. [] The variation of stances is key. Please, show me another. [] A well-timed neutral attack will push your opponent back. Useful for keeping them at a distance. Very good. Now try another posture. [] 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. [] 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. Now, will you give me the key? I believe your mother said you must best me. So... best me. [] Ah... you are your mother's daughter indeed. This weapon is versatile, effective. I see why you have dedicated your life to it. Then we part as kindred spirits. I hid your mother's key above the mountainside ruins. Thank you. Farewell Naoe, but be warned. This land is Yukari's. You must keep eyes in the back of your head. [] I know the location of Tsuyu's key. I should head there next.

Hunting the Hunters

Tormentor's Kill Assignment Tormentor,

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.

- The Exterminator

Yasuke This was one of the killers Rufino was seeking to stop. Their chain of command leads to the Exterminator.

---

This place stinks of death.

Exterminator's Encoded Message (A mixture of swirls, shapes, and symbols, this mysterious code is unreadable without some kind of translated context.)

Coded messages are reserved for the upper echelon, it seems.

---

That must be the one called the Builder. Playing "Lord of the Lumberyard" while ordering the death of peasants. [scoffs]

A kill assignment. With instructiond from their overseer.

Builder's Encoded Message (A mixture of swirls, shapes, and symbols, this mysterious code is unreadable without some kind of translated context.)

---

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.

Collector's Kill Assignment Collector,

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.

- The Trader

One of Rufino's killers, then. This one sent by the Trader.

---

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. [] Stalker's Kill Assignment Stalker,

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.

- The Exterminator

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.

Trader's Encoded Message (A mixture of swirls, shapes, and symbols, this mysterious code is unreadable without some kind of translated context.)

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.

This is what it takesYour hands aren't clean

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.

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.

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.

True Decoded Message (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 Aanzoku Ippa does.

[] 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!
Come. Come! [] 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 Ibuki. There they are. [] Ibuki Where are Kyobei's men? His servants? Yasuke What is the matter? This castle is under Kyobei's care. But all these soldiers are Nakatomi's. Something is wrong. I can feel it. Perhaps there's been a change to the guard. It is rarely that simple. Right. Whatever the situation, I am ready. 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] 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? Flower arrangement? I have seen displays. Beautiful, but I cannot say I understand it. 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? One can pluck and arrange all day, but a flower does not need rules to be beautiful. And, like a flower, our own existence is ephemeral. So why contort ourselves to suit the aesthetics of some forgotten scholar? Do you always talk in such grand metaphor, Ibuki? This conversation makes my head spin. [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. 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 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. I am not sure you needed it. [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? Buddhist prayer beads. Every now and then, I buy supplies from the temple town near the Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine. So you're not a hermit like your grandfather was. 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. You have taken to riding very well. Thank you. I would say I mostly self-taught, after all. [laughs] You wound me. You are a natural rider. But the horse will know if you become overconfident, and will surprise you. Perhaps I should show you how good I am? How about a friendly race to the big lake over the ridge? Is that wise? You're still a beginner. Spoken like one who has already lost. Or someone worried I'm better than him. What? [scoffs] Never. Then perhaps it is time I teach you a thing or two. Don't keep me waiting, sensei! Yah! [] She is good. Even if I can best Rin, should I? [] Faster, Ite! [Player wins] [laughs] What a ride. Perhaps you too were born in a saddle. So close! Admit it, I nearly had you! [laughs] I will do no such thing. Next time you won't be as fortunate. For you to ride so well, so quickly, is very impressive. It took me years. Where did you learn? I started when I was very young. Back in my homeland. A country far across the ocean. Tell me more about your home. [sighs] I would not know where to begin. Then... paint me a picture. How does it look out there? 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. No winters? A different kind of winter. Did you say different fruit? Tell me you had plums! I cannot bear the thought of a life without plums. [laughs] We had many other fruits. Snow, I could do without. But no plums... what would life be? [] 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? Yes, thank you. And I have something that belongs to you. [] Oh! Slippery fingers. Must have dropped it between here and home. Have some onigiri. For your good deed. Onigiri? Yasuke, this is special! You choose which kind.

SalmonPlumSalted

Salmon onigiri, please.

Oh. I'm sure it's delicious.

Enjoy!

How about the plum? [gasps] Really? That's my favorite!

The salted one sounds delicious. Oh. I'm sure it's delicious. Enjoy!

[] 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. [] I am glad to know you have company. You have made real friends here. 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. I had no idea you enjoyed drawing. It's one of my favorite ways to pass the time. I suppose what I enjoy, is... creating beauty. This world desperately needs it. I agree. But drawing the forest animals is challenging. They run too fast. [laughs] I have the same problem. [] 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. You intrigue me, sensei. Tell me... what beauty do you intend to create? The beauty of music. I would like to buy you an instrument of your own. 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. I would be honored. [] Please, stand exactly as you are. [] Perfect. Creating beauty is something you are already skilled at. [] Come, Yasuke, I want you to see something. [] 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. [] 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. [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. Thank you. 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 helpp plan the next steps.

Hattori Hanzo How have you fared? Any progress? Naoe I nearly killed someone you apparently know, a man by the name of Shokichi. Shokichi? What took you to Shokichi? 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." 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. A meeting. Of Yasuhira's network. My thoughts exactly. 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. 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 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. Unable to sell? Yet I see plenty here. Ah, perhaps I misspoke. These are already accounted for. A... new client. Very demanding. I believe I know who it is you serve. Nowaki. I imagine she threatened you. Commandeered your business. How did you... No, I... I cannot. Rest your worries. I am here to help. Please, tell me what you know of her. It was not my intention to... No. If she finds out I spoke to you... My family... 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. 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? 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. Thank you. I will find him, and I will find Nowaki. 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 Get in. Get the kosode. Get out. []

The Master

I swear to you, Yasuhira will be there. A man in black wearing a large hat and a blue shawl.

Your absence will be noted, Asahi.

Please come. For your own sake.

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.

Naoe Yukari's taisho are dead. Tsuyu [breathes] Yasuke Three fewer Templars on Awaji. Only one now remains. T You have done well, both of you. But we have not recovered the regalia. N Not yet. But news over taisho's death will spread. It is only a matter of time until she is betrayed. T Her grip on Awaji is still too strong. And she still has the Sanzoku Ippa. You will have to do more to expose her. Y Konatsu mentioned rumors of an ashigaru forced to work the land to repay his debts. N 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. Y A single spark can burn an entire forest. N 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. T There is a village behind on their taxes and so the Sanzoku Ippa help themselves to the peasants' food stores. Y 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. T 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] N The plan is good. Let's go.

Silencing the Teppo

Destroying Yukari's teppo will reduce her soldier's firepower.

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? Yes. Yukari will receive a new delivery of teppo soon. Where are they now, these weapons? Here in Yura, at the military port. But they will not be easy to access and any tampering will have... explosive results. Leave that to me. Thank you. [] I need to locate all the teppo and be ready. Destroying them will draw much attention. [] That will not go unnoticed. [] Unsubtle, but effective. [] Good. One to go. [] That was the last of them.

The Contact

Yukari's spymaster remains a ghost, feared by all Awaji. Hattori Hanzo may know more.

Hattori Hanzo Naoe. Fujibayashi Naoe Hanzo. I didn't thank you for your help fighting off Yukari's forces. Unnecessary. Is that all you wished to discuss? No... I need your help again. We're going after Yukari spymaster. 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. A good place to start. I'll return when I know more. [] Naoe That must be Hanzo's contact. Contact Over here. [] Hanzo told me to look out for you. Let's make this quick. He said you know where to find Yukari's spymaster. Yes. His home is set farthest back from the sea, at the foot of the castle. 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 I should be cautious. Yasuhira's visitor should be nearby. [] 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. [] Careful. They've stopped. [] Woman in Black Not here. Apparently only his own time must not be wasted. [] No one home. A good opportunity to investigate. [] Some clue to Yasuhira's whereabouts must be here.

Yasuhira's Journal

I suspect the fool was weak, knew his wit was dull. And yet I fooled myself into thinking strength could be forged in him.

He believed himself so cunning as to keep his contact with Hanzo secret? From me? Yasuhira, Spymaster of Awaji? Imbecile.

His death will mean little, but perhaps his corpse will attract one of Hanzo's flies.

Yasuhira! So this is indeed his house. It appears he discovered one of Hanzo's contacts. He is cunning indeed. []

Note and Mask

The black masks gather once more.

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.

Each must be reminded that is only a very few that may earn a black kosode, and fewer still live to wear it long.

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.

Young Villager Hey! Beware of the oni! She is everywhere around here! She'll take you by surprise! [] Aren't you scared? Naoe No... should I be? Don't you know of the oni? She lives in the old house. And where may I find such an evil place? It's not far, but we are forbidden to go there. They say she can pull your soul into the trees... Thank you for the warning. [] So many traps. What are they protecting? [] Nowaki's old home should be near here. [] That blade has seen better days. [] Getting inside this place will be tricky. [] Overgrown, but recently tended to. []

Suma's Note

Nowaki. My sister.

Forgive me for leaving in the night, but my task is one of utmost importance and perilous risk.

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.

If this is truly goodbye, I leave my task to you. Seek the men of the cross. Avenge me. Assure our future.

I love you, my sister.

- Suma

What is that? A Templar cross, here? With this, I can finally force Nowaki to face me.

The Spy at Rest

N/A

Naoe That should be the place. [] It appears no one is here. I should look around. []

Letter to Shokichi

Shokichi,

There remains little time. The information you hold is essential in our fight against the threat posed by our mutual friend.

Please come in from the cold, my friend. Join us.

H.

The note is addressed to "Shokichi." Could be one of Yasuhira's aliases. He was set to betray someone. []

Second Letter

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.

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.

Only behind the masks of night is he exposed by the radiance of a betraying moon.

At this time, I can offer only these meagre lines in service to your cause.

S.

"Masks of night." Curious. This Shokichi writes in riddles but talks of exposing someone? Something? [] 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. Cowardly words for Yukari's master spy. Even Hanzo did not know how low you slithered. 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. Wait, the contact I met then... was not Hanzo's man. Just the sort of ruse Yasuhira would enact. But why this subterfuge? Why have me kill you? There are simpler methods, surely. Perhaps he hoped I would be the one to kill you. That isn't so unimaginable, surely. Possibly. Perhaps he simply discovered you were working with Hanzo. What are you to Yasuhira? 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. Black masks? I found such an item here. What are you not telling me? Nothing, I swear it! Go!

A Sour Defeat

Tsuyu should be told what happened to the regalia. It is time to form a new plan.

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 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. Her new taxes are impossible to meet! Now I must work the land until my debt is paid. If I were to erase that debt, could we count on your help to rise up against those responsible? Kimura Yukari? You're going after Kimura Yukari! Quiet. We have a plan. So do I have your word? 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. Then remain here. I will return when it's done. [] 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! [] 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. 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. No. No debt. Just a favor for a favor.

A Garrison to Dismantle

N/A

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. 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] I will face him now. 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. 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? 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. I have freed the people of Yukari's oppression. AndI'm not done yet. None to fight in your stead now. All of us are bound by obligations beyond our control. And I will see mine fulfilled. [] I regret the death of my men, but I'll put an end to this. Now. [] 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 This must be the hunting lodge. I should find this Shiro. [] 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? Indeed. One of Kimura Yukari's taisho. Can you tell me where I may find her? 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. That is everything I need. Thank you. 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. [] You return. You mentioned you knew more of her? How she came to be as she is now? 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. Yet she would kill her own people? What happened to her that she is now so malevolent? 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. Templars. 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. Little wonder Yukari sought to leverage her talents. 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. And would she stop if Yukari's gone? It's far too late. When last we spoke,behind that hideous mask of hers... the girl I knew was gone. A sad tale indeed. But thank you for enlightening me. 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 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. He's not here. He won't be back soon, or even today. Come back tomorrow. No! Please, my father, he is sick. In pain. I can do nothing for you. He will die if nothing is done. Please! [grunts] There is perhaps... something. Oh, thank you! You are very kind! On the table in the corner. Take it and go. [] 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. Serves them right for calling us the Sanzoku Ippa. Thieves indeed! [] Here, the provisions. [] 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. [] Another. One more should do it. [] Done. Nothing like a good long nap after a meal. Those men should thank me.

Further

Turning the Tables

N/A

Trouble with the Regalia

???

The Regalia

Tsuyu hid the regalia in a secure place in Awaji, locking it away and entrusting the key to a local bo master.

A Snake in the Shrine

N/A

A Shinobi on Awaji

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