The West Wind Howls
From the Journals of Mirumoto Kissaki
Hantei 5th, 1140:
The favor of Kaze no Kami, Lord Wind, compels me to travel north, into the mountains. At first, I suspected it would take me to the summit of Whitestone Mountain but upon ascending, it continues to point north. I am concerned, as the landscape is inhospitable (much as I expected), but I have an idea that I shall test tomorrow that may help me determine just how far I must go.
I have included readings of the scrolls Kitsuki-dono lent me (see Hantei 2, 1140 entry) into my daily routine of ken, meditation, and prayer. I am sure they will provide enlightenment, but my notes and thoughts on that matter are in a separate journal (“Meditations on Instruction”)
Hantei 9th, 1140:
I have travelled four days west of Shiro Kitsuki and the angle of the ribbon has not significantly changed. It is as I suspected- Lord Wind wishes me to travel quite a long distance north of here. Were it any closer, the direction of the ribbon should change- I believe Kami-no-Kaze-sama would send me forth via the most direct route as is his wont, not the most convenient to mortals. Therefore I shall continue westward, observing distances and the changing angles. Perhaps the Unicorn can assist me, for I believe this will take me beyond the borders of the Empire.
Hantei 23rd, 1140:
Moto Maduhl is as welcoming, generous, and friendly as ever. If this man ever has a sad day, there is something wrong with the world. The Khan and Gaheris-Kogun are away at the moment, but Maduhl has offered his assistance in their place. The Favor has most certainly piqued his interest, and he has determined that it is pointing to a location some four-hundred miles north, which, as I suspected, is in the heart of the Burning Sands. Specifically, to a much-avoided area they referred to as ‘the Empty Quarter’.
Other than this, the courts of the Moto are just as they were at Winter Court: rambunctious. There are fewer samurai here at the moment so it is somewhat quieter, but their demeanor is no less for it. Tales of Kakita Rei drinking the Great Khan and his son under the table still circulate, though they have grown in the telling; word has now that it she defeated one of them in an arm wrestling challenge, but none wish to inquire which.
Hantei 24th, 1140:
Maduhl is arranging for an escort caravan to carry the necessary supplies (he estimates that the trek there and back will be roughly three months of hard travel, maybe four). There are some gaijin from the “Ra-Shari” Clan, seasoned desert explorers who are willing to make the journey with me; coin was mentioned, but I do not know what they are charging Maduhl for this service- he refuses to tell me (though I am sure it is quite steep). Let none ever say the Unicorn are miserly. A minor assistant of Maduhl, one Iuchi Wazaki, has asked to come, as he speaks Mekhem moderately well (or whatever strange tongue the gaijin use), he is a water shugenja, and he is, quite frankly, rather excited to travel into the Burning Sands in search of Honor and Glory for the Clan. I see no issue with this, and will be happy for civilized company. I shall carry Rei-chan’s letters with me (as always), but I am now certain I shall be away for a good while and it will be nice to have someone else with whom to speak.
I must remember to obtain more tea before we head out.
Hantei 26th, 1140:
There are six gaijin guides in all, by my count. Only one, the sahir (apparently their version of a shugenja) speaks Rokugani and has proper manners. She covers her face with a veil, though; I initially thought she might be of the Scorpion, whom I’ve been told maintain a small presence out there from their exile, but apparently this is a custom that some women in the Sands follow. Their leader is a man named Wahli- he seems likeable enough. Maduhl-sama has spoken to me of their code of ethics- the gaijin have no Honor as we know it, as there is no formal code of Bushido for them to follow nor is such a thing socially ingrained as in Rokugan. However, they measure their personal worth in Integrity, which has similar tenets: Bravery, Trustworthiness, Loyalty, etc. I have been told that if I treat them with Honor,they shall return in kind, even if they are uncivilized barbarians and there will be some unavoidable communication breakdowns regarding manners (ie they do not follow the Two Refusals rule. I will offer one, so as to not offend anyone’s Sincerity Integrity). One cannot measure an eta by samurai bushido as it is simply beyond them, and so it may well be beyond these gaijin. “Trust them, but mind your purse” were Maduhl’s words, and I shall keep his advice close to my heart, and my coin pouch as well.
I have obtained tea. ‘Iron Benten’ is unfortunately not available in the markets here, but they have something called ‘White Shore Oolong’, which I have been told is quite respectable.
--
I can say that yes, White Shore Oolong is quite good. It is not as robust as ‘Iron Benten’, but it is smooth and very flavorful. I have obtained some for Rei-chan and Shichirou-dono, and will have it delivered to them, along with a letter regarding my travel plans.
Hantei 27th, 1140:
We set out tomorrow with the first rays of Lord Yakamo.
I have been told that springtime in the sands is warm (by their standards) but the nights remain bitterly cold. Maduhl has given me much travelling advice and looked over my equipment multiple times to ensure that I am properly prepared, even offering Sands-appropriate attire, for myself and Akemi [my horse]. The garb is odd looking, but appears quite functional. I am thankful for all his assistance. We have enough supplies for four months of travel, for us and the animals, competent guides, a water shugenja, and most importantly, direction. I feel ready, but I am sure I will change my mind about this fact a week into the journey.
I will spend the last evening meditating. It is still cold here, but the grass peeks through the snow.
Hantei 28th, 1140:
We have set out in good spirits.
I am unsure if the gaijin are more curious about the Favor of the Wind, or me. It makes sense that they have not seen a returned spirit before, but Wazaki-san has spoken to them on my behalf. They try not to stare, but I can see them looking at me with a mix of curiosity, fear, and wonder. So far, the only one to speak to me is Wahli; he is slightly shorter than I, with sun-darkened skin and and a wide smile. When not in travelling robes (to block the sun), they have a curious habit of wearing what are very nearly pauper’s rags, but they are at the same time bedecked in gold and silver jewelry (rings, earrings, necklaces, etc) in a way that would make even a Yasuki blush. I do not understand it.
I dislike these camels, but apparently they are the best pack animal for travelling through the desert. They seem quite stubborn and grouchy, and I have been told they spit. The men ride the camels and care for them, which is fine with me. Apparently horses are a rare luxury, and they likely think me some eccentric nobleman off on a mad quest.
They may be right.
The Favor still points north, even in the strongest western wind. That, at least, they know they can trust.
--
The camels spit. Profusely.
We have made camp, and I am no longer within the borders of the Emerald Empire. The men are singing and chatting merrily, currently content with ignoring me, which I am fine with. I observe and do my part with camp and finding firewood (which is slim, as expected). Wazaki is summoning water to refill our reserves as we go, which the men are greatly pleased about as water is so much more valuable in an area where there is none, and as long as he can summon it, we need not carry it ourselves.
Interestingly, the gaijin navigate this unmarked land by the stars.
Hantei 30th, 1140:
Maduhl’s robes are definitely a blessing. They are not silk, but work well to block the sun while allowing breezes. For all their faults, the gaijin are careful to ensure no one gets sun poisoning or drinks too little. I am still getting accustomed to the wrappings on my face to keep out the sand, but have found a way to ensure they do not get in the way of my swords, should I need them. Hara-dono’s hat helps greatly, too. She is such a blessing upon my Lord and his province!
For better or for worse the gaijin have gotten over their fear of me and are now bombarding me with questions, sometimes very pointedly and rudely, but Wazaki and Aisha (the sahir) have intervened and spoken to them about propriety. Apparently these Ra’Shari are storytellers, much like the Sparrow Clan or the Ikoma, and mine are stories they have not yet heard. Through our generous interpreters, we have exchanged some very interesting tales. I will not bother recording theirs, except to note that their ancestors are from the Ivory Kingdoms, not the deserts, and that they have similar concepts of the kharmic wheel and dharma. That is good, I suppose. Perhaps one day they can be reborn as hinin (I’m guessing merchants by their penchant for coin and trinkets). Could a man of strong Integrity be reborn as samurai? We shall never know.
One of the younger gaijin, Aziz, has taken quite a fascination with me. He doesn’t talk much (out of shyness, I suspect) but I have noticed him mirroring my behavior. He is very... energetic, but perhaps he can be taught restraint and manners. I have also begun speaking Rokugani to him, though he responds in (Mekhem? Senpet?). We shall see where this leads.
(paragraph illegible)
I must meditate on this and many things.
--
In an attempt at a cultural exchange, I have performed a tea ceremony. Wazaki-san has explained the steps to the gaijin (an exchange which would likely horrify the Crane); they are not all appreciative, but they thanked me (in Rokugani!) for the demonstration. As tempting as it was, I did not put rocks in it (Would Togashi Iwao-san be disappointed? I do not know). Aisha and Aziz appreciated it, at least, which is more than I had hoped for in these lands. It was a good way to ward off the night’s chill touch, at least, and they in turn are sharing some of their culture- part of which is a drink (made by Aziz) comprised of, for lack of a better name, honey sake- it is very sweet and heavy, but rather good. I have become fond of it.
I review Kitsuki-dono’s scrolls in the evenings; Lady Moon is bright enough to read by, as her light reflects strongly upon the endless sand, and this gives my many things to ponder during the day. This is a strange, still place; it is like living in an enormous immense very very big karesansui garden. Words fall short. Dry ocean may be the best description. Either way, it is perfect for many hours of quiet contemplation and meditation.
Except for the camels.
--
Rei’s lantern netsuke helps me maintain focus.
Akodo 5th, 1140:
Iuchi Wazaki is beginning to act strange. He is having greater difficulty contacting the kami here, even the earth and air kami, which seem the only things in abundance. Such is the nature of the Sands, I suppose. Perhaps I should have brought a Kuni. They would feel at home here. Wazaki-san is spending his time filling the water jugs now, but it is clearly exhausting work.
Aisha has become more comfortable around us, and has forgone the veil and wraps at night. I will not comment on her dress (what little of it there is), but she has strong Rokugani features, and though obviously of mixed heritage is exceedingly beautiful and quick to laugh. She would not be out of place among the Unicorn.
I have tucked my swords back under my robe. The sand gets everywhere, and it was getting in the saya. This cannot be allowed!
--
I do not know what the gaijin said to her, but it was clearly rude and improper. I know that look. I will have to have words with Wahli about this.
--
Regarding the gaijin disturbance, it turns out Aisha’s birthday is in a few days, and some of her companions were jokingly calling her a number of variations on ‘old’ (she can’t be more than 15 or 16). The jokes quickly became lewd and dishonorable, as such teasing does..
Iuchi-san has intervened on my behalf, and apologies have been made. The offender, Joroji (or something like that), was quite sour about being chastised by strangers, but now knows dishonorable behavior will not be tolerated, even here. I am told he is a respected knife-duelist, and I look forward to testing my skill against this foreign style, should it be necessary.
Tonight’s camp is at the last known oasis in the direction we are going. We have filled the last of our jugs, just in case. Wazaki is sleeping, but it is not restful.
Tsuro-sama has been surprisingly quiet of late. I wonder what is on his mind or if I have displeased him in some unknowable way. I continue to offer prayers.
Akodo 8th, 1140:
Jor’ji challenged me this evening and lost, as expected. All that was wounded was his pride, though, as it was to first blood (as appropriate for the offense). I will not underestimate him, though; I know his kind all too well. Aisha now rides with Aziz and I, and we discuss all manner of things. Her behavior is noticeably different in my presence, which is good. It is refreshing and certainly welcome, though Rei-chan is often in my thoughts.
Gaijin knife-dueling, or tahaddi as they call it, lacks the purity of iai (not to mention the reach). Gaijin swords do not allow for the iai quick-draw as do katana, which explains the use of paired knives. There is a grace to it, though; feints, dodging, parries (similar to the kaeshi waza), thrusts, but there is little Honor involved (also as I had expected). They take great pride in their dueling knives, as they should; many are golden-handled, set with jewels, but I cannot fault them for that- my swords are rather gaudy-looking at first glance, too. They are much more flippant, though, and do not think to give their blades the proper respect that samurai give katana (Joroji is using his to cut apples right now. Shameful). How can they be so proud of something and so disrespectful to it at the same time? Apparently nemuranai are exceptionally rare outside of Rokugan, and it is clear why they cannot awaken their knives’ shutsudohin.
I shall spend more time meditating upon my daisho. Daikiku and Daiume both know my appreciation well, but I shall redouble my efforts. They are an extension of my arm, my will, my soul... me. One day I shall pass them on to my grand-children, and they, theirs. Odd that this has been on my mind so much of late.
Tsuro-sama finally spoke to me after the duel, too; positively, even. Such a rare treat, but I cannot let my relief show, even to him. I’d never hear the end of it.
Akodo 14th, 1140:
There is concern among the gaijin. Apparently the sands shift, rise, and fall, much like the great ocean east of Rokugan, moved about by storms and the wind. Currently they are low - very low, which is either a good or bad sign (they cannot agree which). Is it the favor of Kaze no Kami? I am unsure. I am told that the area we are entering should be nothing but sand, but there are lots of rocky outcroppings and small caves at the moment.
Luca (the fat gaijin wearing too much gold), was stung by a scorpion this evening, but Aisha was able to use some kind of gaijin majic to pull out the poison and save his life. Wazaki has taken to talking to her of this, but she politely rebuffs him. School secrets, I suppose.
I presented Aisha a birthday present- a small flower netsuke I had carved when she was not looking (there was a desert cactus flower she commented upon earlier, so I carved that from a piece of driftwood). It made her very happy (and blush furiously).
We have stopped early today.
--
Apparently we have stopped so Aisha can summon a jinn. Wazaki and I are both very concerned about this, but we shall keep it to ourselves.
--
I do not know what to make of this creature, and am thankful that apparently they cannot escape the circle in which they are summoned. Aisha humored me and had the thing hold some jade- it was not harmed. I suppose that is good, but I have strong reservations about this practice. I am polite, nonetheless- if Courtesy cannot be extended to a gaijin demon, it can be extended to no one.
--
Wahli has pulled Wazaki and I aside to explain things. Apparently these ‘servants of the smokeless fire’ are the ‘first children of the sun, Shilah, and the moon, Kaleel’ (the gaijin names for Amaterasu and Onnotangu), have been summoned by gaijin for over a thousand years using something called Hakhim’s Seal (the elaborate circle she drew on a carpet), and are of high Integrity and generally can be trusted. (Though caution is universally advised. They’re supposedly worse than the Otomo when it comes to interpretation.) If it says it will do a thing, it is as good as done, which I can respect, and they are not known to devour their summoner as an oni would (though apparently they will on occasion harm their summoner, if the summoner is foolish or rude but I cannot say I would not do the same if a gaijin acted so to me).
“They are jinn, not rakshasa.” Wahli said, attempting to reassure us. Are “rakshasa” gaijin oni? I suppose the jinn may be some strange form of kami (not Kami, though), as every living thing is a child of the sun and moon, but I am still unsure. It is not my practice to like or dislike, though. At least the jinn is unfailingly polite and courteous, which is more than can be said for Djorji and his coterie of miscreants.
--
Aisha has explained that this jinn is ‘The Jinn of Floating Water’; essentially a lesser water spirit. Iuchi Wazaki and I discussed this, but we do not know what that means. The only ‘floating water’ I could think of is “ice”. no wonder she is a ‘lesser’ gaijinkami- there is no winter, and thus no ice, here. That is a riddle for another day. Aisha did not explain what she and it discussed, except that the jinn is curious about me, and, should I be amenable, would like to talk to me (about my nature as a returned spirit, I assume).
I will meditate on this.
Akodo 17th, 1140:
Once again Aisha has summoned the jinn, but this time it has modified its appearance to dress and act perfectly Rokugani; I assume this is on Aisha’s instruction. The previous version, a chained naked blue woman, was decidedly offending, although that may have been the point (I have seen similar, though less ridiculously flagrant, behavior from Scorpion seductresses. It was a failed gambit on her part). I do not know if this is just a thing they do (maybe they are trickster spirits?), and I cannot but appreciate the gesture. She has introduced herself as ‘Mara’ (and speaks Rokugani, though with a heavy accent).
As Courtesy demands, I served tea and told her of my life. She is most respectful now, asking many questions. As much as she is interested in me, she seems to be interested in the mountains more. There is no water in her spirit realm, and when I describe my home, she is clearly eager to learn of it (the idea of snow simply fascinates her). She greatly enjoyed the tea.
Mara can apparently tell that my blades are awakened, and has asked of their story, too. This too I do not mind telling.
I have fought oni on the battlefield and have heard many tales of them. They are never known to have a humble nature- the warped reflection of the peaceful nature of the kami. This jinn, Mara, is much more the latter than the former. I can work with this, even if she is blue-skinned.
I shall pray for further guidance and proceed with caution.
Aisha has (illegible writing inked over). I must meditate more.
--
Wazaki is quiet and will not speak much. He can summon water for us, but only with exceptional effort. I can tell he is embarrassed about this, but I will not cause him to lose Face.
Akodo 24th, 1140:
The heat has been increasing since we left the Empire, but now it is becoming truly overwhelming. It is definitely a dangerous force to reckon with. Even without the humidity, I can see how this would kill the unprepared. The gaijin are still concerned about the lowness of the dunes, and there are rocky outcroppings everywhere which should not be visible. We came across a pillar today, about 1-1/2 ken in height. Wahli was greatly concerned, because usually it is only a shaku or less (it is a Ra-Shari waypoint). That is a lot of sand. I am concerned, but I trust in the kami... though Kaze no Kami’s tricks are sometimes fatal. I will overcome, though, because I know I will.
Aisha and I have become quite close. Aziz, too, is starting to learn proper manners. If the other gaijin mock them because of it, they do so quietly and to themselves. Wahli keeps them in line, and during meals they are all still jovial and polite, if distant.
I have spoken to the jinn twice now. She brings us water, and in return I share stories of my past and of Rokugan. I am not much of a storyteller, but thankfully my translators are. I am beginning to pick up some more of the language, but not enough to do the Emerald Empire honor. Interestingly, the more I speak to Mara, the more Rokugani she becomes (I do not discuss kimono or women’s manners, but she expresses those things anyway). Maybe this too is on Aisha’s advice?
Interestingly, the snow-capped mountains of my home continues to entrance Mara just as much as the tales of the past. The idea of water that is so cold it freezes and falls from the sky is completely foreign to her.
--
Aisha is as confused as I am about Mara’s changing demeanor.
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Wazaki is quiet and sullen. He says that the kami are fewer and fewer as we go deeper into the Empty Quarter. He says this place is dead, and I believe him.
I thank all of Heaven that when I died, I went to Yomi instead of Meido. I am certainly homesick for the forested mountains and green hills of my home... and for Rei-chan. I write to her almost every day, now.
--
Djorji is dead. He got drunk on the honey-sake and went after Aisha while I was asleep. I was awakened by the skirmish, but did not need to cut him down- Wahli defended her Honor. They are stripping the offender of his possessions (knives, jewels, etc.), in the rationale that he would want them to (“he doesn’t need things anymore”), and will soon make their prayers over his corpse. We cannot burn it for there is not enough wood, but after conferring with Wahli, he will allow decapitation- apparently there are sahir (maho-tsukai?) among the Senpet Clan who reanimate corpses. Aisha does not do this, nor do the Ra’Shari, but still, it is better to be safe. They are leaving Djorji where he lay- a practice they call ‘sky burial’ (a deplorable term I have not heard since my previous life).
I said my prayers for him and done what I could to cover his remains with sand. He is a worthless gaijin dog, but all dead are worthy of respect. I would not wish the vultures or the senpet maho-tsukai to have even him.
I almost forgot; They put two small copper coins over his eyes before burial- something about paying for passage on the black caravan. Perhaps Emma-O has a peasant servant who escorts the souls of gaijin to wherever it is they go? It is blasphemous, baseless speculation of course, but maybe Djorji will reincarnate as a dog or something and have a better chance next time. That sounds better than riding in an aetherial caravan. Camel gaki would be wholly unpleasant.
Doji 1st, 1140:
It is well and truly hot now, all but unbearable. Our travel is slow, mostly at night, resting during the day in whatever shady overhang we can find (or make. They have large open tents to cover the pack animals). This is truly a hostile land, and it makes me grateful for the veritable verdant paradise of my home. I can tell Akemi-kun hates it here and I blame her not at all.
The gaijin have begun singing songs about Djorji- pleasant ones, telling the tales of his great adventures. They honor him by remembering the good times. Aisha and I honor him by ignoring him, and these songs gives us time alone, under the endless stars.
Doji 3rd, 1140:
I caught Aziz touching Daikiku. I believe he knows enough Rokugani to understand what I said to him (I’m certain he understands the tone of it, and the urgency of never touching a samurai’s katana). Other men would have killed him, but he did not know better and Compassion demands forgiveness for the ignorant. I am still tempted. Aisha explained it better (in Mekhem), and he has apologized profusely (mostly in Rokugani now). I had hoped Wazaki would talk to him as well, but he is... Wazaki is not all here right now.
--
HE LEFT A FINGERPRINT ON THE BLADE. (illegible text)
It would serve him right to have lost that finger.
--
Daikiku is now cleansed and the shutsudohin balanced. My heart is still racing, but this should not upset me so much. I must meditate more, but then I must return once again to my studies. The Kitsuki’s observations on the art of teaching are very detailed (as expected).
I have begun using some of the techniques on Aziz.
Doji 6th, 1140
A lone candle’s glow
brightens the scattered petals.
-steam fills my senses.
It amuses me that I am composing haiku about bathing. I do not yet know Kaze no Kami’s purpose for sending me on this journey, but it has certainly been... enlightening.
Doji 7th, 1140:
There are signs of an ancient civilization here. Tonight we found a stone column, broken and prone. Some of the stone outcroppings have squared edges. There is still mostly sand, and apparently these things all should be buried much more deeply. The men are excited, but nervous.
The wind has been a constant through our journey, but of late it is picking up and stinging sharply. Perhaps we are nearing my destination? We are in the right area, I think.
Doji 8th, 1140:
Towards dawn of this morning, we have come across the ruins of a large building, built into the side of a small, rocky ridge. The Ra-Shari guides recognize the description of the very peak as one of their distant waypoints (one they never, ever travel to if they can help it, apparently). They wish to stop and explore it today. In the building, there is a cave in which the whole caravan can take shelter, even the camels, and that will be a welcome change. However, we must explore it first to ensure it is safe. Unsurprisingly, things prefer caves here.
--
The ruins are cleared. The only thing (so far) was a nest of saw-scale vipers (they rub their scales against each other when threatened, which sounds like a wood saw). No one was struck, and Micha (the smaller, quicker gaijin) was able to bag them and let them out a half-mile away, somewhere along the ridge. One was impressively long, about 3 ken. I wonder if he is usually this brave, or if he was just brave because he knew Aisha-kun could pull the poison out.
I must meditate while they explore the rest of it. It is nice and cool inside, and that helps. It is a little thing, but it reminds me of home...
--
I have my center.
This building, whatever it was in the past, must have been important. It appears that we have entered into an inner chamber, because there are gorgeous, strange murals on the walls (under the dust), large, broken statues, and other, similar things, mostly in marble. I have my suspicions...
Under the dirt and dust of the ages, there are beautiful mosaic tiles on the floor, set with lapis, onyx, and silver. Aisha is excited about this- she says the pattern is a variant of Hakhim’s Seal (what she uses to summon Mara-sama), but she cannot elaborate further yet. She demands that we take it with us. The rest of the gaijin are out, so I must do this with her. She says it is important, and I trust her. I roused Wazaki to help, so pulling these up shall not take long.
It is clearly an old, abandoned temple, long since destroyed. To whom, I wonder...
--
Aziz found buried treasure.
Not just gold, but treasure. The men are ecstatic (they congratulate each other closely, but have learned not to touch Wazaki and I. Maybe there is hope for them yet). There are coins of silver and gold, jewels, vases, swords, crowns, tablets, etc. Aziz squeezed through a small crack, smaller than any of us could get in, went down some tight stairs (how far down? I do not know) and apparently came into a vault of some kind. It is likely whatever destroyed the building cracked the foundations and created paths that were not intended to be. Anyway. They are loading the camels now, wallowing in greed. Would Daikoku approve of this? Desire runs rampant among these men.
I am happy they are happy. Wahli has promised me a double share, but that is not why I am here. Wazaki and I shall go for a walk while they celebrate. The Favor still points north, and I wish to get a better view of things before we start out again.
Aisha has asked for paper to make rubbings of some of the mosaics we cannot take with us. I should have brought more.
--
Iuchi Wazaki and I climbed to the top of the ridge, just as the Lord Sun was setting, and I shall describe what I found. The peak we were on was perhaps twenty or so feet high, so it was not a difficult climb. Indeed, at the top was a small bit of ruins, not unlike the columns previously discovered. On it was was a deeply-carved mark, left by the Ra’Shari who pass through when the sand is higher. This column is the highest point around- the rest of the ridge is shorter- I can tell this because it is part of a wide circle of rough rock. For the life of me, it looks like the ripple made when one casts a stone into water, maybe a mile or two across, and in the center is a deep valley. This I know is what Kaze-no-Kami wished me to find, because the ribbon has stopped blowing altogether. From here, we took off our shoes and prayed. We have little water to purify with, and so we wash our face and hands as best we can.
Wazaki-san and I climbed down on the inside face, which was difficult, but not unmanageable (especially without shoes). Large chunks of the sand appear burnt and fused together, giving the appearance of sandy, crumbly, light-blue and green crystals. I have heard that the blessings of Osano-Wo the Thunderer can do this, but those are small and rare. This is... this is very large. As we explored we prayed continuously. I spoke the ancient prayer to Kami-no-Kaze, the one I will not write here, and it pleased him. The wind picked up and began to swirl as Lord Wind revealing a bounty of black objects in the still warm sand- iron. I would not touch them normally, but He encouraged me to do so. There were many of them, most far too heavy, but we managed to gather some, wrapping them in silk and praying relentlessly, as much as we both could carry. I truly wish I had more paper to write out proper prayers.
There is one piece in the center, larger than the rest, and the part we can see is about the size of a horse. Wazaki looked at it first, but he quickly said we should leave without inspecting it further. When pressed, he would only say it had kamikanji on it. This is either a holy or damned place. I know what happened here, and I think it may be both.
I can hear Lord Wind’s laughter on the air as we quickly left. As we climbed back over the ridge, the column and Ra-Shari waypoint crumbled and fell (we did not touch it); there will be no finding this place again.
--
Wazaki-san communed with a piece of the iron we collected. He is weeping openly now and will talk to no one. The good mood of the gaijin has been dashed, though they are still scooping treasure from the bowels of this place. Aisha is preparing to summon her jinn friend.
--
This is the Tale of Hu-Riku, as it was told to me by my grandfather, told to him by his grandfather, passed on through my family since before the count of time.
In the beginning, before the Creation of the World, there was but One and it was All Things, formless, shapeless, timeless. It cannot be named, for to say it is one thing is to say it is not another, and that is incorrect. For reasons unknowable, this One became Two: Light and Dark, Strong and Weak, Full and Empty, Good and Evil, Yin and Yang. These Two, who also had no names (because they came before names and had not the power to name), soon became aware of themselves and each other. The Two perceived each other and though they were unequal, they were balanced, and thus danced about each other and the One (for it was still there, as it is everything and nothing, and was distinct from the Two that came from it) and from this harmony was born the Third, neither the First nor the Second, but Balance. The Three saw together that it was good, and together this motion became what we now call the Celestial Wheel.
Within the Two, from out of the Balance of the Third, this dance, this movement, this song, this love, begat Two more, a Weak Light and a Weak Darkness, and together the Gods of Light danced with the Gods of Darkness, and from their dance and song were created space and time and matter and all the worlds and realms in all of creation, and most importantly, Kharma and Dharma. The Gods of Light, the creators of all things, whom we now call Onnotangu and Amaterasu, created names because they willed that all things should have an identity and a purpose. The Gods of Darkness (both the strong and the weak), are of no substance and cannot name nor create, but they gave of themselves freely to the Gods of Light, and from the Four sprang the Eight, which soon became the 10,000 things.
If Onnotangu and Amaterasu gave the Gods of Darkness, or even The Three Who Came Before, names, it is not for anyone else to know besides them. Such questions must not be asked. However, we can see them and know them by their actions. Just as the Gods of Light became the Sun and Moon, so too did the remnants of the Gods of Darkness, the parts not given to the Gods of Light to make the world, become the Darkness and the Shadow.
Of those 10,000 things, Man was born. In this time man walked with The Four Gods of Light and Darkness, the Eight Gods of the Elements (Two, a Strong and a Weak, for each), and their children beyond count, in a paradise that all knew was Good. All the Created Things were taught to exist and act according to their nature, but Man alone, the favored children of the Gods, were taught to karma. This aspect of the divine, this self-awareness, ability to change, to perceive, to know, to name, to make a fortune and to grow, this was the greatest creation of the Sun and the Moon, and they rejoiced.
The other children of the Gods, those older and less refined than Man, but more potent, saw this creation and knew that it too was Good. They worked as their parents did and created many intelligent beings, but none could equal Man. They made men of animals and of Gods, tiger-men, bird-men, kami-men, snake-men, while they were often more powerful, none were more pure of essence. It did not matter; all were loved and all were cherished.
Man was shaped by the Gods, in turn the Gods were shaped by Man. Strong and Weak, together in harmony and balance. Together, Man and God had many children.
Except the Gods of Darkness. As the things that were created from their essence became aware, so too did they. For all the Good and Happiness of Light, there was an opposite in the Gods of Darkness: Evil and Suffering. The Gods of Darkness were afraid of being forgotten, they regretted giving themselves up so freely, and quickly desired to have their essence returned, but it was too late. What was made could not be so easily unmade, and the Universe began to separate, as oil separates from water.
While all of creation rejoiced, this separation was felt by Hu-Rikou, known as Hu the Wise. He overheard the Darkness whispering to itself, planting thoughts in the minds of the Children of Light. Those closest to Darkness and Shadow, the kami-men, they fell first. Not all, but the Darkness took of the Strong and Weak alike.
Hu-Rikou saw this and tried to speak to Onnotangu and Amaterasu, but neither could fathom what would come, as their essence was to create, and to the Greater and Lesser Darknesses, but they would not, could not change from their natures. Hu-Rikou traveled to the Eight and spoke to them, and some of them listened to his words, but not all. Hu-Rikou gathered those who would listen, his tribe and seven others, and together they left paradise, fleeing south. These were only one small drop in the ocean of all Men, but they were the wisest ones who could see and understand kharma.
Together his tribe and the seven others chose of themselves the best and brightest, strongest and bravest, to go north and fight the Darkness, to change the dharma of the world, while their gods, children, and god-children went south to safety.
Then one day without warning, the Forces of Darkness divided the Light from the light, intent on consuming everything and returning All to the One- Amaterasu was separated from Onnotangu and the world was plunged in Night. We do not know of the battles the Eight Heroes faced nor the pains they suffered, but Amaterasu was freed by their actions. In her captivity, she had a taste of the Darkness, just enough to create something new: Death. In retribution, she killed the kami-men and Hu-Rikou and the Seven and 10,000 others, blasting their essence into oblivion with great fists of fire. Those who fled south saw the fire fall from the heavens and felt the hot wind on their faces, but their piety and prayers protected them. Onnotangu tried to save the innocent, but he could not- he could only reach those with the strongest kharma, the eight men and women who saved his wife with his right hand while pushing down the God of Darkness with his left.
This was the act that separated the spirit realms. The Darkness and the remaining kami-men fell into Jigoku, and the Seven were lifted into Tengoku to become the Seven Fortunes. It is unknown what became of Hu the Wise, the little man who saved the world, but it is under his name that the tribes of men gathered as they travelled south to the lands of the snake-men and the bird-men. Hu-Rikou-kan: the Tribe of Hu the Wise.
It is unknown why Lord Onnotangu showed Compassion to the Lesser Darkness, the Shadow, and kept it hidden from the eyes of his vengeful wife- his was the Lesser Light to her Greater, and so she chased him for an aeon, but eventually she grew tired and the two Gods of Light switched places. Lord Onnotangu took from her the Essence of Death, bending his will to changing it and shape it, while she put her effort into giving birth to new children, ones who have the absolute best characteristics of both the Gods and of Men.
Slowly the Lesser Darkness ate away at him from the inside. He could not forget the deaths of his children, and he could not forgive: Fear, Desire, Regret were reborn in the Shadow of a God.
The Greater Darkness and the fallen kami-men tried to take the world of Man, Ningen-do, away twice afterward, but each time failed, defeated by the Champions of Heaven while the Humans rebuilt their strength. Soon, it will be our turn again.
This was told to me by my grandfather, told to him by his grandfather, passed down through our family for two millenia before the Fall of the Children of the Sun and Moon.
So says Mirumoto Batsuyounofujin-Kissaki no Ryuu, of the Tribe of the Greater Wind before the Fall of the Kami, follower of Togashi, Dragon-Son of Light after.
--
Having returned from the Realm of Blessed Ancestors, I may be the only one left who remembers it, as this tale has all but been forgotten by the World. It is not even a creation myth anymore, and most would say it is nothing but blasphemy. Maybe that is a good thing.
Perhaps Togashi Hoshi knows this story. I shall not ask his advice on the matter.
This is the tale I told to the Ra’Shari storytellers. They attempted to kill me for this knowledge (claiming to protect it), but I killed them because I knew I would win and they did not. Such is the Way of Dharma. As the fight occurred, none could see the coming storm outside. I, in my haste to leave the crater, did not see it on the horizon.
We (I, Iuchi Wazaki, Aisha, and Aziz) are trapped. The cave is sealed by a wall of sand, and I write this by wavering lantern light. I do not know if any will ever read it.
Do not forget me, Rei-chan.
Doji 9th?, 1140:
I have awoken to find Aisha conversing with a very nervous Mara. Aziz has prepared the bodies for burial, and Wazaki is still sobbing softly in the corner, quietly mumbling to himself. After listening to his mad ramblings, I am confident that the iron we found was a Fist of the Sun, one of many that destroyed paradise so long ago. I shall pray over it and treat it with the utmost reverence.
Apparently with his dying breath, Wahli told Aziz to give me one of his netsuke- a golden pendant of a bird. He was a good man, for a gaijin, so I shall honor his request.
--
Aisha says Mara can get us out of this cave via a spell called The Crossroads, but in return I must promise her something. I will not speak of that thing, even here.
--
Though the vision through the Crossroads spell looked like Rokugan, we have ended up in Medinat-al-Salaam. Apparently my vision of home was overrode by Aisha’s and Aziz’. I am not happy about this, but at least it’s not trapped in a cave under twenty feet of sand. I will return home in time.
Doji 10th?, 1140:
We spoke to the guards at the gate about the massive sandstorm and determined it will approach from the east. They thanked us and set to alerting the city. We too shall prepare for its arrival.
Doji 14th, 1140:
The citizens of the city are calling the sandstorm the Wrath of the Gods, as it is the worst seen in at least three generations. Thankfully, with a few days’ preparation, the city has weathered it fairly successfully- few have died (mostly homeless beggars).
The east and south deserts took the brunt of Lord Wind’s wrath.
Doji 15th, 1140:
I have met with the Unicorn consulate in the city and they have found a place for me to stay. Moto Maduhl, Kami bless him, sent a letter north to the city in case I turned up here, and I am to work with his second cousin on his mother’s side, Moto Jafar. It is good to be around Rokugani again, even if they are distant cousins.
Apparently as I was attacked by the other gaijin and won, I take their shares of the journey’s profit, by Ra’Shari law; Aziz and Aisha will brook no discussion about this, as it is a matter of Honor Great Integrity with them. I am not a merchant patron though, so I will leave the details to Jafar-san to handle, and I do not wish to transgress upon the laws regarding trade with gaijin, either. The look on his face... he may have reached enlightenment. I know roughly what the Dragon clan needs, and he is looking into these things for me, so that I have proper supplies and gifts for when I return. They have a shrine to Daikoku, and we have prayed together. He is a devout man.
Iuchi Wazaki has insisted on swimming in the river. We will do this tomorrow morning. I have a feeling this will be a regular occurence.
--
Blessings unto the hospitality of the Unicorn! A bath!
Doji 17th, 1140:
This city is absolutely massive. It is said that there are a million people here, maybe the truth is likely greater more. It is as if all of Scorpion lands piled into Ryoko Owari, and the city never sleeps (except during mid-day, when it is hottest and not even the meanest merchant can bear Lord Sun’s scorching rays). I look forward to the cool, quiet solitude of the mountains. I’m warming up to the food, though, but I avoid travelling outside because I glow and the people here have never seen that before. It proves... complicated.
--
We are back from Wazaki’s swim. There is a spot in the middle of town that has wide stairs that lead into the water, and it is a very popular location and a Holy Place for the denizens here; the “Little Prophet” washed his hands here, or something. I’ll look into this later.
While Wazaki was swimming about, I decided to look around. One of the people there was a gaijin monk, called a guru, who from what I can tell had taken a vow of extreme poverty- he gave up all worldly possessions, even a name. Thankfully he at least had a fundoshi, but he clearly did not value any other point of social cleanliness or bodily upkeep (his white hair and beard were beyond unkept, they were matted and wild). Peculiarities aside, he was an interesting fellow, and we had a good conversation about the benefits of a shaved head- I offered, he said he would not stop me, but he would not ask either, so I did not press the matter. The conversation must have been terribly amusing to watch, because he barely spoke mekhem either, and so there was a lot of gestures involved.
Many of the passers-by would offer him money as a prayer for good fortune, which he would in turn give away to anyone who asked. Aside from his general appearance, he would not be out of place in a Brotherhood temple.
I bought him some lunch from a local vendor, and that made him smile.
Together we prayed and watched Wazaki frolick in the water with some children, and we had a good laugh about it all. I haven’t laughed like that in a while, and it was a good feeling.
I left some money with him of course, but as that is thing I simply did not value as much as others, so it did not hold value for me as an offering. Instead, I made a prayer of the first letter Rei sent to me when our courtship began (I read it to him as best I could and make a burnt offering of it). That was something he valued, and my surprise, thanked me in Rokugani.
--
Aisha is a distant relative of the Great Khan, apparently. One of her uncles (twice removed? three times? I don’t know) was a hero of the city, and she has been missing for years, hidden by the Ra’Shari after assassins tried to steal her away. I have been asked by Jafar to not let her out of my sight, and she does not protest this. I will bring her home safely.
Except that we cannot travel home yet. The hottest part of the year is coming up, as if it weren’t hot enough already, and there are no caravans south until autumn (the Great Storm halted much of the travel). I will be here for a few months longer.
I found more paper, and have been able to find incense and the necessary supplies for proper prayers. I have located a woodcarving kit, too, and have begun making statues of the Seven Fortunes, starting with Daikoku. It seems only fitting.
Doji 28th, 1140:
Today I met with the daimyo of Medinat al-Salaam and her hatamoto, or by their terms the Caliph and the Sultan, to announce myself and offer the tiles we found. The Seal on the tiles is a variant that references the Moon, whom they call Kaleel, and apparently that is a unique thing. I asked for nothing except the well-being of the Caliph, but they insisted on piling rewards upon me- a gift such as this demands reward, he says, and I did not wish to offend him by refusing a second time (once seemed to be enough).
Among other things (gold, jewels, horses, etc), he has given me an estate in the nobles district. That one can own land in the Jewel of the Desert is strange to me, but if anyone can distribute it, it is the Sultan. I do not know if I can give it to anyone in turn and I do not want to offend my most generous host, so after I leave I shall let the Unicorn use it on my behalf, I think. I will not tell them this yet, though.
I told the Sultan and Caliph the tale of the cave and the Favor of the Wind, but left out the crater and the iron. I have also told them of myself and how I returned. They seem most impressed, though possibly slightly incredulous. It is a wonder that any incredulity can be had in a land this bizarre.
--
By Togashi’s ink, this estate is enormous. How do they fit such things in a city this dense?
The best part of it is that it’s quiet. There’s even a garden, and a stable. Akemi-chan feels much more relaxed.
--
One of the neighbors, Aurelius Maximus of the Yodotai Clan, has told us that apparently the estate once belonged to a wealthy sahir who was arrested by the Sultan and his property seized a few months ago. The house itself was looted of most of it’s possessions and the place is a mess. He is happy to have it occupied again, so at least there are no longer concerns of squatters, thieves, or property values.
I am unfamiliar with the term "Homeowner's Association", but apparently it is an important local council. I shall ask Jafar-san.
Doji 29th, 1140:
The Sultan sent a parade of servants to my new house with furniture (and the horses), and many of the other neighbors have followed suit- they are all making a great show of their wealth and generosity. I am sure it will come with a price at some point, but I do not know how to refuse properly (one does not refuse the Sultan, and the others are acting in his wake). We are keeping track of the gifts, so that thank you letters can be sent out later. Most are... austentatious. I am told these are all things of great value but no sentiment, except for one from the Caliph- a blue, green, and gold prayer rug from her family’s personal temple. Someone has spoken to her about Rokugani customs, and she honors me greatly with her trust. This gift I will take home.
Some of the servants (and guards) are staying around until I can hire my own.
--
Moto Aisha, Aziz, and I have moved into the estate, and Wazaki-san has stayed with Jafar-san. He is still unbalanced hopefully can be made whole soon. I am grateful of their company. A few of Jafar-san’s servants have come, too- ones who understand Rokugani. I look forward to civilizing this place.
One of the gaijin servants warned me about taking naps in the garden. Use a hammock, lest a venomous snake, spider, or scorpion, get you. Apparently that’s a big problem out here; the vipers come for the birds that eat the dates, and it was suggested also I get a dog, possibly a cat.
Word of all this has spread and I am a minor celebrity in the city now. There are many visitors from the different factions here, including some from the Scorpion clan, curious about me and the things we found. I have been invited to many parties and social gatherings, and Aisha comes to ensure smooth communication.
One of the local Scorpion sent some gardeners over to fix the place up. That was a friendly gesture (I suppose).
--
Aziz has brought his Lord to speak with me- an elderly woman named Iyana. She asked to see Wahli’s pendant, which proves I am a ‘friend of the Ra-Shari’. Aziz says this will ensure fair dealings with them from here out (apparently they have ‘a reputation’), but possibly the occasional visitor. I have directed them to Jafar-san, who has proven most honorable in the mercantile matters, and as one would expect, he has taken to this task with a samurai’s zeal.
We have kept some of the more interesting treasure and trinkets for ourselves, but much of it Jafar is quietly auctioning off for more popular currency (a copper coin) and trade goods. He is taking great pride and effort in this- each of the ancient coins is being sold for many koku, I am told, and the artifacts for significantly more. He is a noble samurai who honors his Lord greatly with his service. I trust that he, and the Ra-Shari, will do right by the Dragon and the Unicorn.
(section blacked out)
Moto Aisha is acting much more like a proper Rokugani now. This is good. One of her servant girls (section blacked out).
I must meditate in the garden.
Doji 30th, 1140:
The guru is no longer at the waterfront. Some say there never was a guru, and no one even remembers him except me. Instead, there is a ‘take a zeni, leave a zeni’ wishing fountain, one that has been there for a thousand years. I am very confused about this. Was he some kind of charity spirit? I don’t know. I prayed there though, to whomever it was. My life is generally busier now, so I will send Wazaki with some coins whenever he goes swimming.
The Yodotai neighbor, Aurelius Maximus, invited us to a celebration tonight, with me as the guest of honor. Aisha-chan dressed up for it, in a kimono (instead of the traditional Moto dress, or the Ra-Shari rags clothes she usually wears). She would not be out of place in Rokugani High Court. I am glad. This is good.
The Yodotai concern me greatly, but for all their gluttonous pursuits of excess and deplorable social customs, they should not be discounted as a fighting force. I have included my thoughts on the matter elsewhere (“Observations of the Yodotai”) and in more detail. Needless to say, thankfully Aisha-chan got us out of there before the after-dinner entertainment (gladiator fighting and an orgy) began and we were forced to dishonor our Hosts.
--
In our absence, Aziz found a secret room in the basement, but I have run out of paper here. I must obtain more to continue.
