Rise of the Tortoise

GenCon 2004 Challenge Booth Results

 

by Rich Wulf



            The city of Otosan Uchi was a shadow now, a pale ruin that only hinted at its former grandeur. Kitsuki Mizuochi was clearly uncomfortable as he gazed out from the heights of Sunset Tower, arms folded in his billowing sleeves against the chill ocean breeze. Though most of the horizon was clear, a blot of churning grey clouds hovered in the sky above the dead Imperial City.

“You do not like this place,” said a voice from behind him.

Mizuochi turned, peering over one shoulder. A thin, dark-skinned man in plain brown clothing had ascended the steps behind Mizuochi. He had the rough look of a peasant, but wore the two swords of a samurai at his hip. The symbol of a smiling tortoise was sewed upon his left sleeve.

“This is a disturbing place,” Mizuochi said, “a memory better left forgotten.”

Taigen stood beside the Dragon, staring out at the ruins with a lopsided smile. “I disagree,” Taigen said. “To ignore defeat is to invite its return. The Tortoise Clan has learned much from the lesson of Otosan Uchi.”

“Then we are fortunate that some good came of that tragedy,” Mizuochi said. “I was told that you wished to discuss something with a representative of the Imperial Court?”

“Yes,” Taigen nodded. “Though I am disappointed Toritaka Tatsune did not appear personally, no offense intended, Kitsuki-san.”

Mizuochi shrugged. The Crab have little taste for politics,” Mizuochi replied. “Tatsune would prefer to be in the dojo or on the wall, not in the court. He asked that I deal with this matter on his behalf.”

Taigen nodded slowly in understanding. “I confess I am somewhat disappointed,” he said. “In the five years since the city’s corruption, my followers have faced many strange things in the dead city’s shadows. I had hoped the Crab might sympathize.”

“The Dragon have battled their share of shadows, Taigen-san,” Mizuochi said. Perhaps I would understand?”

Taigen folded his arms across his thin chest, studying the fallen city as he considered what he would say. “I do not think you need to be reminded that these are dark times, Mizuochi,” the Tortoise said. “The Empire faces danger both from within and without, both natural and supernatural. It is the Imperial Court’s role to determine how to deal with such dangers, but while the Minor Clans share this danger we do not share the responsibility of rule. We have no voice in the Imperial Court.”

“I assume you have already proposed this to the other Minor Clans?” Mizuochi asked. “I also assume from the dust on the cuffs of your hakama that you have been traveling a great deal. Have you asked your fellow daimyo how they feel?”

Taigen chuckled. “Always the Kitsuki,” he said. “I have spoken to the lords of the Sparrow, Dragonfly, Hare, Monkey, Fox, Sparrow, and Ox. I have even spoken to the new lord of the Bat and the wandering survivors of the Badger. We are all united in our need for a voice among the courts. Once, the Tortoise protected the interests of the Emperor in this city, but this city is a ghost now.” Taigen was silent for a long moment. “The Tortoise need a new purpose, and the Minor Clans need a voice in the court. The solution seems natural… but I cannot accomplish this alone. Only one who already has influence among the courts could aid me in such a task.”

“Your goals seem noble enough,” Mizuochi said.

“But there is always a price,” Taigen answered.

Price?” Mizuochi asked with a slightly surprised look. “The Dragon would not demand a payment for something that would so obviously help the Empirebut we have already been charged with the Emperor with rooting out the hidden dangers that stalk our Empire. Administrating the activities of our agents consumes a great deal of my time. Surely all your years in this haunted city have taught your samurai something that might aid me in this task.”

A slow smile dawned across Taigen’s face. “So you would offer me a voice in the Imperial Court, and in return for this favor you would share this glorious quest the Emperor has given your clan?

“Favor? No,” Mizuochi replied seriously. “I have agreed to help you access the web of shameless politics, suspicion, and betrayal that is the Imperial Court. In return I offer nothing but a chance aid us in a hopeless crusade to hunt the hidden enemies of the Empire, enemies that would not hesitate to wipe out your clan and all who bear the Kasuga name. You ask me for a terrible burden and I offer to reward you with two.”

“For the good of the Empire,” Taigen added.

Mizuochi nodded silently.

Taigen grinned. “You have a deal, Kitsuki-san,” he said.