The Court of Lord Ho: IC

[Tebryn]

It was a warm day in the spring of the two hundredth and last year of the Hoshen Era, the great Lord Ho having passed without an heir. By Imperial Edict a month of mourning was called and only now, six months after the announcement of the passing of the beloved leader has the Imperial City slowly regained a modicum of sanity. It is now time for a new ruler and a new era to be proclaimed however the bright skies of the past are already swiftly growing dark with storm clouds. Rumors of large barbarian movements in the North have stirred the fears of the peasents through out the empire and the most loyal and trusted clan within the empire, the Dog, has been struck down by a religious movement that threatens to incite the already terrified masses. It is for these reasons and many more that the Lord Regeant has called the remaining clans to the Golden Pavilion to take hold the wheel of government and right the swiftly foundering ship of state and perhaps chose amongst the ranks of the clans a new Emperor. It is here we find the start of this new era, a table set up for the nine Clan Diplomats, an empty seat left for the slain Dog Clan's Representative in respect and honor.

[Erik Vale]

Clan Sparrow.

The time of morning had come to an end, as it must. It was unfortuneate, the loss of a line durring a time of upheavil, and they would have to push ahead.

But only Clan Sparrow would be likely to do this, Eragu contemplated, following the ritual steps from the back of the line. 'And we willl be ignored for our youth as a clan, wont we.' Eragu thought to himself, the thought being completely unsurprising. It had happened before. He often had to recite their history, to remind the other clans that Clan Sparrow had a history just as long as theirs, and even longer than some, even if they were only just a clan now.

'That he had had a child. Life would be easier, and we would be favoured.' Eragu contmplated, as usual, having trouble keeping his mind on all the ceromony.

[Xondoure]

Crane Clan

"Fellow representatives, my name is Osagawa Toshiro. It is an honor to meet you all."

Toshiro spoke levelly; bowing his head upon introduction. His manner was courteous and gave away little about him. He had not been selected for a surplus of emotional expression.

[Elemental]

Horse Clan

Huang Lin stepped through the doors of the Golden Pavillion.
He held in one hand the written warrant that permitted him to speak for Zhi Qiang, and with the other, he passed his sword to one of the guards at the door.
He would not be as forward as the Crane representative to speak before the Lord Arbiter. But his face betrayed his annoyance nonetheless.
Surely the Crane have not thrown away protocol in their quest for wealth...
He stood silently, awaiting his turn to sit.

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

Lull Xing has entered the chamber, his face clear of the ash, that has adorned it for the past moths. The Tanuki Clan has been in mourning for the passing of the Emperor, with criers and wailers shouting their grief unceasingly and the nobles wearing the white of mourning.

The emissary of the Tanuki Clan gave a barest bow of acknowledgments to the two lesser clans of Sparrow and Crane. The passing of the most sagacious ruler Emperor Ho would undoubtedly stir their unworthy ambition to better their stations, yet another woe to the already besieged Empire. His bow to the Horse Clan was more deep, but with eyes firmly fixed Huang Lin, indicating wary and distrust. Other Clans have often hid their venom in honey of sweet words, but Tanuki Clan has always being open about their attitudes and intentions, ever since disastrous affairs at court, have convinced them not to play the games of intrigue and lies.

Silently, Lull Xing took his place, awaiting the Lord Arbiter's announcement.

[Voshkod]

Fox Clan

AnaKhan Ul'lak had ridden hard and fast from the frontier to arrive for the Council. The Fox Clan had not mourned the past Emperor overmuch. Death was commonplace on the borders and came for the young and old like an owl falls upon a mouse. The Emperor had moved on from earthly concerns, and that was that. Now there were new concerns, and new deaths awaited.

She strode into Golden Pavilion dressed in her finest furs and hides, a long curved blade on her belt. Her eyes were light blue, her hair platinum, and her face almost alien, evidence of the interbreeding between the Fox Clan and the barbarians beyond the border. Her eyes swept the room with suspicion and no small measure of awe; the Pavilion was a far cry from the rough buildings and tents the Foxes called home.

"I am AnaKhan Ul'lak," she announced in a loud voice. "The Fox Clan is here."

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

The Lull Xing's lips curled in distaste, accompanied by the hostile arching of his brows, at the appearance of the Mongrel clan's representative. At least with the barbarians of the Horse Clan, one knew where they stood. The sly Fox was a beast of many faces, a Clan of untrustworthy liars and troublemakers.

[Voshkod]

Fox Clan

The AnaKhan gives the fat farmer of the Tanuki clan a disdainful smile. It was good they feared the Fox. In days not that long past, the hordes would have made short work of the defenseless tillers. And, perhaps, in days yet to come.

She grabbed a cup of rice wine to wash away the dust of the road as she surveyed the rest of the representatives. The money-hoarders of the Crane Clan. The weakling, traditionless Sparrow. The gelded Horses. She took her seat with a grin.

[ArcaneStomper]

Boar Clan

The boisterous laughter of Zukon Zhao can be heard long before he enters the pavilion as he laughs at some joke or another his retainers have told. Leaving his retainers outside as was proper, never let it be said that the Boar did not know proper protocol not since the incident a century ago anyway, Zukon Zhao enters the pavilion. Handing over his bow to the door guard Zukon continues forward then frowns for a moment as if remembering something and moves back to divest himself of his sword, backup sword, and several large knives before continuing.

Quite a large man, the representative of the boar wore his elegant court clothes like an ill-fitting overcoat and all could see that his boots were those of a Boar peasant soldier and still caked with dirt from some earlier training exercise. Looking at each of the other representatives in turn, his face still creased in a smile from his earlier humor, he gives each one a respectful and equivalent bow, before moving to the Boar's seat and waiting for the Lord Regent to arrive.

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

Lull Xing greeted the arriving Zukon Zhao with restrained welcome, tempered by caution. The Boar Clan emissary was in his view a dullard, but unless that was a clever mask, it actually made him well suited for this council. Better a reliable half-wit, then a men with too many clever ideas in his head. There have been too many of those already, especially with the coming of the Pales. The Emperor's permission for their traders to move freely through the Empire was one of the issues, Xing and his older brother privately disagreed with. Still, behind the dullness of Zukon stood the sharp wit of his brother Shun, and of his designs the Tanuki Clan was far more worried about. After all, the Pigs proper place is in their filth, eating and growing fatter with seasons. But they would be a real trouble, if they were to run wild.

[Grim ranger]

Snake Clan

Walking in after the Boar representative, the diplomat of the Snake Clan smiled very slightly as he saw the tensions in the room. Tempers would likely flare along the course of the heated debates and "discussions" on the future of the empire, like they always had. And as always, Snake Clan was there to make sure that energy of the clans would be directed where it should be... With some subtle prodding, if necessary.

But of course no one knew that. All others knew was that Snake was often useful, even if not a clan to be trusted blindly. And that suited him just fine.

"The Snake Clan has arrived, fellow representatives. I am Kenji Itachi" he said, the smile never leaving the face of the Snake Clan diplomat but not reaching his eyes. They were cunning and alert, and scanned all of the gathered Clan representatives as he sat down, ordering his venom green cloak slightly. This would be an interesting occassion by the looks of it.

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

Kenji Itachi, representative of the Snake Clan. Lull Xing displayed as much scorn towards him, as protocol and good manners allowed. The only good thing one could say about the Snake Clan was, that they weren't Hakama, and sometimes not even that. At least Hakama knew their place. It was too much to hope, that this crisis would see Snake Clan pulled down and destroyed, alas chances of that were slim. When the floods came to the plains after the heavy rains, the good crops drowned, while the things that stayed afloat usually were of most unpleasant nature.

[Voshkod]

Fox Clan

The AnaKhan drained her first cup of rice wine and poured herself a second. When Zukon Zhao entered, she rose respectfully, and when Kenji Itachi slithered into the Pavilion, she actually smiled. Boars and snakes. At least you know where you stand with them.

"What, is no one else drinking?" she asks. "Surely some of you must have a thirst." She pours another cup of rice wine and passes it to Itachi. "Drink, snake, and give us a toast!"

[ArcaneStomper]

Boar Clan

Zukon Zhao's laughter booms across the chamber as he pours his own cup. "Hah, asking the Snake to give a toast. Everyone is probably afraid he poisoned the wine." Rasing his glass cheerfully he said, "A toast to the jade throne. And whoever winds up sitting on it." With a shrug he downs the glass before looking around at the others.

[Xondoure]

Osagawa Toshiro turned to address the AnaKhan. "We have business to discuss. Forgive me but I do not see how rice wine contributes to civilized conversation. Should we not first turn to matters of the state before allowing ourselves respite?"

Edit: Assume this happens after the toast, before Toshiro drinks.

[Voshkod]

Fox Clan

"To the Jade Throne, then, and whoever ends up stuck in it," the AnaKhan says, looking directly at Zukon as she drinks.

"Civilization," she snaps back at Osagawa. "I thought the hallmark of civilization was comfort. We'll talk better over meat and wine."

Edited to avoid doublepost.

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

Lull Xing observed Zukon's merriment with a pang of envy. At least the witless oaf was enjoying himself, while he, Lull Xing, had to endure this mostly unpleasant company.
''We can't exactly begin the discussion with the Tiger Clan absent, or they would cause them great disrespect. They may even think that we are conspiring against them.'', he said outloud, in reply to Toshiro's words.

Lull Xing lips formed a tight line, at AnaKhan's disrespectful words towards the Jade Throne. The Fox Clan's impertinence was growing, as were Xing's concerns about their already tenuous loyalty to the Empire.

[Grim ranger]

Snake Clan

Smiling sharply in response to Boar representative's words, the Snake diplomat shook his head modestly. "Please, you must think worst of my house always to even suggest such a thing... We would have poisoned the cups, not the wine..."

Raising up from his seat, the representative of Snake Clan lifted his cup in a toast. "To the throne and our new, illustrious leader... Whoever that may be."

[ArcaneStomper]

Boar Clan

Zukon smiles at Itachi, "My friend I do not think the worst of you. I do not believe you would have poisoned the wine at all. Why I'm sure that if you wanted one of us dead we would have simply suffered a terrible and unfortunate accident not something so uncouth as posioning."

He pours a second cup and looks at the others, "Not just the Tiger. The Naga is not here either. And the Fox is right, while we wait for them some friendly wine will only help ease the tension. We are not enemies after all, that we need to be ever alert and on guard. If a little rice wine helps keep the meeting friendly it will do nothing but encourage us to remember that while we are of different clans we are all united under the Empire, and that the true purpose of this meeting is to ensure its continued well being."

[Dorizzit]

Naga Clan

Finally, the representative of the Naga clan strides through the doors of the golden pavilion. Xue-Tai Yun is a short and slender but also surprisingly muscular young woman, with loose, with black hair tied back and the slitted blue eyes that are characteristic of the Naga clan's nobility. The wealth of the Naga clan is obvious; she is dressed in practical, but obviously well made clothing. As she enters, she passes off an ornate dagger to the door guard. She bows to the assembled clan emissaries.

"Xue-Tai Yun of the Naga clan has arrived."

She moves to her place at the table, taking her assigned seat with some hesitation.

"Please, forgive my tardiness. The main road between Xiajat and the capital has been obstructed by an avalanche. I was forced to a take an alternative route."

As she explains, Xue-Tai settles in and directs a steely glance around the table, sizing up each of the other clan representatives.

Sparrow. In many ways the polar opposite of her own clan: new to their status, unbound by tradition, and innovative in thought. She envied them, in some ways.

Crane. A clan with a paradoxical relationship to her own: many trading deals had been made between the clans, but there was still bad blood because the Naga had supported the older brother before the Crane's founding. She would let their representative...Osagawa Toshiro...set the tone of their relationship.

Horse. Despite sharing a border, the two clans had surprisingly little contact, although they were generally on good terms. She would get her own measure of the representative soon enough.

Tanuki. Similar, in some ways, to her own clan. While the Naga had isolated themselves, however, the Tanuki had played the games of courtly intrigue with abandon and had lost, contrasting the Naga's stasis.

Fox. Odd in appearance, strange in behavior, and a wild card through and through. The Naga know little of the Fox, and they are a complete mystery to Xue-Tai.

Boar. The straight arrow, strong, loud, and without subtlety. Many of the Naga found the Boar clan to be uncouth buffoons, but Xue-Tai acknowledges the critical role they serve and does not look down on them.

Snake. Assassins, open about their trade. It was unlikely they had aspirations for the throne, but their actions could never be perfectly predicted. Xue-Tai is wary, but largely unconcerned.

[Ninja_in_Shadow]

The Tiger Clan
Speaker of the Order Dofeen strides calmly into the pavilion.
I apologize for my late coming. I was delayed in my travels.
He sits down and calmly watches the merriment.

[ArcaneStomper]

Boar Clan

Now that they were all here Zukon looked around the room at the other representatives. Despite what he had said earlier Zukon wasn't a fool, he knew each representative would likely be maneuvering for the good of their clan rather than the empire. Putting his thoughts in order he considered each of the clans.

The Tiger clan he didn't know well. Monks and their mystical ways. They were good warriors which he could respect. And while he didn't quite agree with their venerating the empire at least they were loyal.

The Naga clan held themselves aloof, and they'd probably never be friends with the Boar, but they were good trade partners. Lumber flowed into the mountains in return for the metals that the Boar couldn't mine themselves. Something to remember for the negotiations.

The Snake clan, well he meant what he said. He didn't really trust them, but on the other hand if they wanted to sabotage the Boar they probably could without anyone realizing. If mysterious crop failures started occuring or the granaries caught fire he would look into them, but otherwise he wasn't too worried. For one thing the Boar had made it quite clear that if anything happened to their diplomat they'd exact a blood price.

The Tanuki Clan had what the Boar needed. Food and lots of it. His brother had told him to make sure relations remained good. And Zukon saw no reason that they wouldn't.

The Crane clan was another major trading partner. There had been a bit of bad blood centuries ago during the civil war, the Boar had almost gone to war with itself over which brother to support, but that was in the past. Now the Crane fleet was built with Boar lumber, and the Crane made sure Boar merchants got what they needed.

The Sparrow was inconsequential to the Boar. They had crazy ideas, but nothing that really changed anything. Maybe if they figured out a way to double rice production the Boar would start listening.

The Horse Clan were always prancing around on their horses. Zukon would take a good spear group of Boar peasant militia over the Horse riders any day. And they had nothing Shun wanted so no need to have anything to do with them.

The Fox clan was interesting. They had the potential to be a good trading partner. Trading exotic goods from barbarian lands for fine Boar lumber. But Shun didn't want to commit to anything while their succession was still in doubt. Maybe after their old clan leader finally died the Boar would have more to say to them.

[Tebryn]

With all the Clan Representatives assembled it was time to call order and begin the proceedings. There would be time enough to discuss pleasantries over the course of deliberation. The Lord Regeant, dressed plainly so as not to assume to great a station rose from the seat beside the Jade Thron with a clear voice.

"Greetings Honored Diplomats, may your Clan's have one thousand years of peaceful harvests and gentle winds. You have been called to the Imperial City for two reasons. The first reason is to manage the state of the Empire with our Grand Lord Ho, may his afterlife be filled with sweet fragrances, and to guide it through the dark times that already rear their foul head. The second, should it please the Heavens, is to decide an honorable man or woman to rule over our country and to name the new era. It is with these two goals in mind that I call the first session of the Spring Court to session. We have three matters to discuss. I will lay them out in turn."


Issue One

It is with the deepest regret that I inform you all that as of last night we have received word that honorable Dog Clan has fallen to heretical uprisings at the hand of the movement known as the Pure Land. With peasants in hand the noble Dog Clan's homes were raided and their women and children slaughtered by the honor-less beasts. Those nobles who were not killed swiftly defected along with a sizable portion of their army. The Pure Land now holds the Dog Lands, their weapons and supplies and have fortified their boarders. A full scale conflict could easily destroy this uprising but peasants across the Empire have heard the call of these swine and while the risk is manageable such a crack down could incite further revolts and stir other cells of the Pure Land to take hold of other lands. The leaders have yet to show their face however we believe a core member of their inner circle is heading the control of Dog Lands.



Issue Two

Barbarians from the North and South have shown surprisingly determined attacks having heard the news of our Grand Lord Ho's death, may he rest eternal in his kingdom beyond the veil. What is more, weapons recovered from the barbarian hordes from the South show surprising crafting. There is a strong possibility that one of our enemies from abroad or more disturbing enemies at home are supplying them with better arms and armor. While a full scale invasion seems far off, it would be best if we could find were these weapons are coming from and see if we can stop them.


Issue Three

Our Astronomers have divined that this summer will be dry through out the Empire with a strong possibility for a wide scale drought. As the second issue on the table this is not pressing however better planning from the Council could possibly negate wide scale food shortages. The Imperial Lagers have always boasted a surplus and we could easily share the extra food to a wide majority of the Empire, however the citizens of the fine Imperial City have never known the pangs of hunger and this would certainly cause them to experience this for the first time.


The Issues are on the table for your esteemed selves to judge. Your choices will guide us for the season. May the Heavens shine upon your decisions.

[Elemental]

Huang Lin rose to address the assemblage.
Lord Regent. It is good that you have called this council so expediently. I shall now speak for the Horse on each issue.

As always, we shall ensure the security of our border against all external threats. If we need aid against the Barbarians, we shall call for it.

My people do not fear the coming drought. We raise almost no crops, and thus, do not fear bad harvests. We will do as we have done always and merely range further to search for the bounty of nature. Unfortunately, we can provide no assistance to our fellow clans.

Now, the issue with the fall of the Dog Clan... This matter should demand our full attention. I suggest we reinforce the Imperial City. It stands perilously close to the border of this so-called "Pure Land", and there is no telling how rapidly mindless fanatics may push through the territory of the Boar.

[Dorizzit]

As Huang Lin sits after delivering his speech, Xue-Tai rises.

"I concur on the urgency of the Pure Land. This uprising must be dealt with immediately. Reinforcement of the city is a good first step, but we must take the offensive soon. The Pure Land will likely march on the Imperial City soon. Additionally, we should take steps to ascertain the identities of the leadership of this organization.

This drought is a concern. The Naga clan has a similar position to the Horse: we raise no crops and have enough storehouses of food for such an incident. We cannot afford to share our supplies, but we will not need assistance, either. We can loan money to assist with the process of transporting food across the empire, however.

This weapon affair is also concerning, but is a secondary issue to the others. Perhaps this is connected to the Pure Land? They have the requisite level of technology, proximity to the southern barbarians, and the desire to harm us."

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

''I agree with the Horse Clan and disagree with Naga Clan on the issue of Pure Land. We need to strengthen defenses of the Imperial City against the fanatics, but acting against them would be too risky. As you have heard a drought and possibility of famine approaches. A reckless crackdown, combined with shortages of food would be enough to make Pure Land insanity spread like wildfire. Instead of one rebellion we'll have to deal with dozens all across the land. We should do nothing for now and wait for the drought to pass, so we have a more secure position, before we act against the Pure Land.''

''On the issue of food, I would say we need to open the Imperial Lagers. The stability of the entire Empire is at stake and it is a test of leadership for this Council. We must avert food shortages across the Empire at all costs. It may cause some wory in the Imperial City, but at the same time their concerns would focus on Pure Land and as per Horse Clan suggestion, its garrisons would be bolstered, increasing the public order.''

''As for the Barbarians they are only a threat due to the better weapons and those weapons are most certainly coming from within the Empire. We need to cut the supply, before the problem grows too large. I would propose the Boar Clan to position its army at their borders and inspect all passing travelers and especially merchants. The Crane's fleet should meanwhile block the southern ocean, so no ships with weapons sail west.''

''I would advise against use of assassins against the Pure Land. We'll have martyrs to inspire more rebellion.''

''I find it hard to believe, that Pure Land would be connected to the Barbarians, considering their strong hatred of foreign influences.''

[Xondoure]

Osagawa Toshiro would have frowned if he lacked better control. He had been sent to the capital mere days after hearing of the emperor's death. And had expected the representatives of the clans to be called immediately after the month had come to an end. Instead they were now gathered five months after. The empire had gone six months with the clans involved purely in their own affairs, and the central authority in the hands of the lord regent alone. And he did not think this was an accident.

"It fills me with great sadness to hear of the fall of the dog clan. Our people have a long history. And I do not see the wisdom in allowing the pure land to grow unopposed. We cannot allow such things to continue, especially in a time of such uncertainty, lest the empire look weak. Let us see how bold the movement is after they find themselves facing a united chrysanthemum. Perhaps then they will see the error of their cause. And if they flee to the shadows..."

At this Toshiro glances at the snake representative.

"We will deal with them there."

The crane diplomat, and eldest son of the lord Osagawa permitted himself a small sip of rice wine.

"In an effort to keep things of an honest nature. My people have made dealings with those outside the empire from time to time. But we would not be so foolish as to supply weaponry to those who attack our borders. And in fact peace treaties were signed when beginning such transactions. Those that violate the treaties would, and have been cut off.

However, Crane is too far removed from the hostile barbarians to weigh in on the matter of defense."

Toshiro finished. He was confident that what he had revealed was not any more than the more informed of the representatives already knew. And as it was mostly their goods the Crane clan had traded; he feared little for any accusations made against them.

"Finally, a harsh summer does not seem like a matter for this counsel. I imagine most clans have enough stores to feed themselves. I know our merchants have contracted enough to supply any who are in need. If the Naga clan wishes to cover that expense for the other clans I am sure they will accept such a generous offer."

[Elemental]

A harsh Summer is an issue for this council. It threatens to strike hardest at the Empire's weakest point. The people of the Boar and their reliance on imported food.
Each of the other clans may be able to feed themselves, but the Boar may not.
If this comes to pass, their great armies may be disbanded, and the Empire will fall. We must open the Imperial Lagers.

Are you sure you didn't mean larders?

As for the closing of borders... It would be best if the armies of the Boar Clan did not seal the Southern border.
Doing so would have them too far out of position to respond if the "Pure Land" chooses to invade.
The Horse Clan will fulfil it's duties and seal the border without aid. We can move much more quickly if we are needed elsewhere.

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

''I would oppose a military move against the Pure Land. Let me explain my reasons.''

''If we march boldly against the Pure Land we only confirm our role as a villain and oppressor in the play they are staging for the common folk. Their propaganda would gain them ten men, for a single one we slay. They are experts at stirring unrest in shadows and our armies would have to be stationed across entire Empire and conentrated in the Dog Clan lands. Is that wise, in the face of the threat of barbarian invasion?''

''We should take a subtler and more cunning approach. The Pure Land claims that we are corrupt and unfit to rule. Well, now they are in charge of the Dog Clan Lands. Does anyone here honestly expects those fanatics and malcontents to rule wiser, then any of us? They can cause chaos, but creating order and prosperity requires actual skill and tradition of statesmanship, that only we possess. They will fail miserably and in their failure they'll show the entire Empire, that the order they offer as replacement for our rule, is a poor trade indeed.''

''There is a drought coming to the Empire. Well, while we will feed our people, the peasants, who so foolishly followed Pure Land would starve. I expect half of their supporters to change sides as soon as their bellies begin to rumble. They will be proven incompetent and fade away like a bad dream.''

[Voshkod]

Fox Clan

"Bah," AnaKhan Ul'lak snaps, putting her feet up on the table. "What would the great Ho say about us cowering before some peasants? The mighty Boar should march to crush them without delay, while the Snake bites at this renegade monk and his three sons. Cut off the head and trample the body and leave any peasant that complains hanging from a tree for the ravens to peck at."

"Now, the barbarians, that's a tougher nut to crack," she continues with a fierce smile. "You either buy them off or push them back. Surely the Horse and the Tiger can hold the line for now, until the Pure Land fools are crushed and the Boar's forces can be used against the frontiers!"

"And that leaves us with a drought, the most difficult of problems," she says. "The Naga's wealth can purchase food from outside the borders, and the Crane can move the food. The Tanuki can grow and store as much food as possible before the drought, and the Sparrows can work in Tanuki lands to improve the irrigation systems to lessen the impact."

She stands. "If we work together, if we stand together, not drought, not peasants, not barbarians can undo this Empire. When we start to peck at each other, cracks appear, and those cracks erode into chasms that will plunge us all into the depths."

Her long legs striding quickly, she paces around the room. "The honorable Lord Regent leaves a fourth item of great importance to the side. Who shall sit upon the Jade Throne? We need someone of strength, courage, intellect, and wisdom, someone who can fill the gap in our hearts left by the death of Lord Ho. While we pick and thrust at the problems of the margins, let us not forget that we have a gap in the heart of the Empire!"

[Tebryn]

"Lady Ul'Lak, I must insist this hanging fourth issue is one that will take delicacy and the grace of the Gods to decide. It is not for a single night to pass and be decided. In these trying times, all that rise above the Empire are a test from the Heavens. The most worthy man or woman to take the seat of our beloved Lord Ho, may the Lady Draped in Pearls forever stand by his side, shall make their Clan known by their deeds and actions at this very table. Only then can the Ho family pass on the title of Emperor and the ceremony of the Naming can take place."

The Lord Reagent glances at the barbarian woman, looking completly aghast at her feet upon the table though always the polite diplomat says nothing.

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

Proposed Votes:

Open the Imperial larders to feed the population of the Empire in the time of drought? (Yes/No)

The Boar Clan would fortify the Imperial City, while their main army would stand ready to repel the Pure Land, if they try to advance from Dog Clan territory or barbarians, if they advance into the Horse Clan Lands. (For/Against)

[Voshkod]

Fox Clan

"I'd propose an alternative to Tanuki's plan," the AnaKhan says. "I propose that the full might of the Empire, led by the Boar clan, and with such assistance as the other clans can provide without weakening our barbarian defenses, fall upon and annhilate the rebels, and that the Dog lands be divided among the clans."

[ArcaneStomper]

Boar Clan

Zukon rises to his feet and thunders, "I agree with the Fox and Naga. Who are these Pure Land to question the clans who have led the Empire to prosperity for hundreds of years. What backing do they have to show that they are any better. Let the Boar clan march on the Pure Lands while the Snake exposes their leaders. Make no mistake this is not some mere movement to wait out. This is open rebellion against the empire. And penalty for rebellion is death."

"As for the barbarians in the South, they are a lesser threat. If the Horse says they can deal with them, then let the Horse deal with them. Boar's armies will move if requested, but otherwise we will concentrate on the Pure Lands."

"As for the drougth the Boar fully supports opening the larders of the Imperial City. Not only for personal reasons, if our armies are on the move we will have less peasants to work the fields, but also for the purposes of Empire morale. If the people see that the clans are providing for them they will be unlikely to support the Pure Lands."

[Grim ranger]

Snake Clan

"But of course, Boar... the Snake would be very glad to once again dutifully fight in the side of justice and heavenly mandate... After all, leaving rebels free to plot and gnaw away at our glorious civilization would be the worst mistake we could ever make... But there are several issues that I must bring forth first, I am afraid" Kenji said with oily tone, his smile turning a shade more towards sly expression.

"First of all, we must take into account the possibility that the rebels are using services of the Hakama. I believe all of you are aware of the reputation of these particular cutthroats, and I believe that it would be against Snake Clan's interests to be forced into conflict with them if that is indeed what it would take to take care of rebel leaders. Cutting off the head of the rebellion would also demand a significant investment from Snake, one for which my clan would need suitable repayment for to stay in the business..."

Allowing the other clan representatives to mull his words over for a moment, the Snake Clan diplomat bowed his head slightly at The Lord Regent. "And of course only one in this table could give the word for strike of that magnitude... And with all these barbarian-related problems, I believe that our agents are also needed elsewhere... Unless the more daring members of this council wish to go out and ride against the savages head-on."

[Voshkod]

Fox Clan

The AnaKhan barks with laughter. "Surely a portion of the Dog lands would be sufficient payment for the Snakes!"

[ArcaneStomper]

Boar Clan

Zukon shrugs, "The Boar clan's armies do not march on nothing my friend. But we do not demand that we are repaid for our services in duty to the empire. I simply believed that the Snake would wish to help seeing as the Pure Lands are also on your border, but if you do not wish to aid the Empire in its time of need we will do what must be done without you. But if we are forced to fight without support then we will have nothing to aid you if the Pure Lands chooses to retreat into your lands rather than face our armies."

[Dorizzit]

Naga Clan

Xue-Tai turns to look at Zukon.

"I am afraid that I must change my original stance on the Pure Land. The Tanuki Clan has a fair point; the middle of a drought is no time for us to try and invade the Dog territories. We should wait for the drought to pass and see if the Pure Land is even capable of sustaining themselves through such a period before we act. With the might of the Boar guarding our borders, the Pure Land has little hope of reaching the Imperial City. In the mean time, we can gather more information about these heretics.

Speaking of the drought, I would like to emphasize that the Naga offers to loan money to assist the process of distributing supplies. We will expect eventual repayment from the beneficiary clans, either monetary or otherwise. We also support the opening of the Imperial Larders to feed the population."

[ArcaneStomper]

Boar Clan

Zukon snorts and leans back, "I can see you are all too worried to do what needs to be done. The Boar will not crush this uprising if that is the will of the council. But our armies do not stop eating merely because they are standing still. And every peasant we raise is a peasant who is not farming rice or cutting lumber in the great forests. For the good of the empire we would not complain, but allowing the rebellion to simply fester is not for the good of the empire. If we are to fortify the route to the Imperial city then every clan who votes for it must pay a share of the price for the Boar to import enough rice during the coming drought."

He shrugs again, "And if you are unwilling to do so then we will take matters into our own hands and deal with the Pure Lands the right way."

[Ninja_in_Shadow]

Speaker Dofeen rises from his seat.
First, I will state my opinion on the issue of the borders. I believe current defenses are strong enough to hold them. The Tiger Clan could hold the Wall of Eternity with 1000 men, and we have many more. These excess men will be marched to the North and South to reinforce the Horse clan, if they will take them.
I agree, nay, demand, swift and immediate action against the Pure Land. They have no right to rise up against their proper rulers and the order of things in this empire. If the others will not take care of them, let the Tiger Clan march there today, and crush them!

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

''I disagree with Boar Clan position, but it appears, apart from Naga, the rest of Clans are favoring a more direct approach. In that case, I would like to request, that Tanuki Clan is put in charge of food distribution. You can't deny our expertise in this area and our Clan lacking soldiers or spies, can at least contribute to the welfare of the Empire in this way. Let nobody say, that because we don't sacrifice on the battlefield, we lack honor.''

[Erik Vale]

The Sparrow Clan Diplomat speaks up from his silence.

"I agree, the Imperial Lagers should be opened, and the Tanuki Clan may well be most suited to the task they suggest. As for the barbarians and those who call themselves to be of the 'Pure Land' I would suggest we place heavy guard on our boarders, and march when the most prominent threat can truely be decided. As for the Pure Land', let them govern for now the borders they have taken. If they seek war we shall crush them, should they do a poor job, they will crush themselves, and should they do well, they can begin the long walk that is the path my Clan took, as it waited over centuries for one to think that it does well, to well for it to not be a clan."

[Thelonius]

Issue One: Pure Land

Boar Clan Attacks Pure Land [4]:
Boar
Tiger
Fox
Crane

Sub-Issue: Tiger Clan sends reinforcements to deal with Pure Land.
For: Tiger Clan
Against:

Sub-Issue: Snake Clan works against Pure Land in exchange for Dog Clan Lands.
For: Fox
Against: Tanuki

Wait and see approach to Pure Land [3]:
Tanuki
Sparrow
Naga

Sub-Issue: Boar Clan protect the Imperial City.
For: Horse Clan, Sparrow Clan, Tanuki Clan
Against:

Sub-Issue: Boar Clan recieves payment for protecting the Imperial City.
For: Boar Clan
Against: Tanuki Clan

Unknown [2]
Horse Clan
Snake


Issue Two: Barbarians

Horse Clan and Tiger Clans guard the borders.


Issue Three: Famine

The Imperial Laders will be opened (no one expressed opposition to this).

Sub-Issue: Tanuki Clan will be responsible for food distribution.
For: Tanuki, Sparrow
Against:

[Elemental]

If none object, I will draw up the order for my clan to seal our border with the Barbarians of the South.
And as for the "Pure Land"... If it is the desire of this Council that they be crushed; I only request that you ensure that the Imperial City is adequately reinforced before you do so. We of the Horse would be willing to send warriors to aid in its defense.
Huang Lin reached into his robe and withdrew parchment, brush and ink, and began writing in the flowing script of the Horse Clan.

[Tebryn]

The Lord Regeant stands with a nod, looking over the assembled. "Then we wait only for the Snake to give their verdict. I shall go over the issues one last time since your August Selves have offered more onto the table. The issues we are discussing now are how to best deal with the Pure Land that has taken over the Dog Clan Holdings, The Barbarians of the North and South and opening the Larders for the Empire to ease Summer time drought. The newly proposed issues are as follows. The Boar Clan supplementing the garrisons of the Imperial City and gaining food and money for their services. The Snake gaining more of the Dog Clan's land for their covert but honored tasks against the Pure Land. And the issue of the Tanuki Clan taking over the distribution of the Food Stores across the Empire."

[Grim ranger]

Snake Clan

Nodding slightly at Lord Regeant, the diplomat of the Snake speaks again.

"The Snake Clan supports the Boar attack against the Pure Land, and my Clan will work against them in exchange for the share of Dog clan land we are promised. We also support the notion of Tiger and Horse clans guarding the borders of the empire against barbarians, but must oppose the notion of Tanuki clan being responsible for food distribution. We are however still in agreement to the fact that The Imperial Laders should be opened to prevent famine."

[Voshkod]

Fox Clan

The AnaKhan smiles. "Fox clan troops are already on the move against these 'Pure Lane' fools."

[Dorizzit]

Naga Clan

Xue-Tai Yun looks from her own contemplations to the Lord Regent.

"The Naga will support the use of Boar Clan soldiers to assist the Imperial City and the payment of the Snake in exchange for their assistance against the Pure Land. We abstain from the vote on the Tanuki."

[ArcaneStomper]

"Then the Boar will march on the Pure Lands. If the Tiger clan wishes to join us then we will welcome any support they can send. And if the Snake do their part then we have no issue with them claiming a portion of the Dog Lands."

"If the Tanuki believe they have the expertise necessary to oversee the distribution of the Imperial Larders then we say let them do so. We have no objections."

[Elemental]

Huang Lin finished his writing and passed his message to the Lord Regent.
This requires your seal to be official.

Note: The message is written in the script of the Horse Clan, so as such, it is in what amounts to a foreign language. It is unlikely that any but the most learned scribes can read it.

As for the sub issues... I shall address them one by one.
If the Tiger Clan wishes to aid in the subjugation of this rebellion, then they may do so. But do not leave the border undefended.
The Snake Clan may have some of the territory of the Dog Clan. However, it is my hope that the Clan may one day be restored.
The Tanuki may administer the distribution of food if they so desire.

As for whether the Boar Clan should receive payment for defending the Imperial City... I feel that no payment is required.
After all, the Imperial City lies within their territory, and as such, I presume it is within their best interests to repel any invasions?

[Erik Vale]

Back home at the Sparrow Lands

Alea sat on her dias, her advisor in economics and warfare before her.

Maria, her economic advisor spoke first

"Opening the mines is a good idea. Economically we would recoup our losses many fold in salt."

"And we should be safe for now. Piracy is low, and the barberous hordes have to go through other clans first. This should be a safe venture."

"It is good that we are all in agreement, Anatu. Maria, set things in motion."

"Your will, Alea."

[Tebryn]

The Spring in the Empire sees war across the lands of the Dog Clan, for as swiftly as they were taken from the Empire were they taken back. Between the forces of the Boar and Tiger the Pure Land peasant warriors fall like grain and with the surprise attack of the Fox Clan on the rest of the peninsula they call home. The Fox Clan’s control is swift, dissidents are cut down until none dare speak out against the barbarians. The lands of the Dog are gifted to the Boar and the Snake for their aid, the boar for their bravery and the Snake for the promise of the Council. The barbarians of the North and South are silent during the Spring however reports of the Brood of Ursa starting to mobilize continue across the boarder into the Empire regardless. With the food stocks disturbed fairly by the Tanuki, the stocks of the Clans are safe for winter though times will still be lean and as always the Boar will know the pangs of hunger. However, not all news is good news for the Empire as Spring Turns to Summer. The attempts by the Snake Clan to remove the leadership of the Pure Lands has failed, as the cowardly priests and generals flee into the night before an attack can be carried out. The Pure Land is wounded but not defeated. What is more, as expected, the brutal swiftness of the crack down has caused murmurs among the Peasant Class though peace is had during the Spring.

The Summer opens with a proclamation from the heretic leaders of the Pure land, denouncing the Empire for using Barbarians against their own people and for attempting to assassinate those who did now kowtow to the council which they claim are using the Boar Clan to usurp and create a new empire that will crack down on any who dare even speak out against their rule. Skirmishes against supply lines of the Boar clan begin to grow as the Summer begins with surprising efficancy though the Pure Lands melts into the background for the time being. Peace seems to have been kept possible....for now.

[Elemental]

Zhi Qiang stood before his throne performing the ceremony that inducted the second son of the Yaanshii chieftain into his council of advisors.
It was a short ceremony, just an oath before witnesses, but still very important.

With this complete, Zhi Qiang sat down, followed by his advisors, and dictated a proclamation to the official scribe.
It would be read by his representative at the Summer Court.

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

Issue One: Land Grant to Snake Clan

''The Snake Clan was promised lands for their work against Pure Land. They have utterly failed in their task to remove the leadership of the Pure Land, only serving to strengthen the Pure Land propaganda against the Council. If we give rewards for failure, there won’t be enough land in the whole Empire.''

''Tanuki Plan proposes to recall the land grant to Snake Clan, until their efforts against the Pure Land actually produce results.''

Issue Two: Dog Clan Lands Ownership

''We must decide who will control the Dog Clan Lands. Certainly we all heard that notion that those lands would be granted to Boar Clan for their bravery. A notion, unconfirmed by this Council. If we allow such gross misunderstandings, that any land can change hands within the Empire without Councils will, we will have many problems on our hands.''

''In fact it is a grave insult against the Boar Clan, who have undertaken this military campaign solely out of duty to the Empire and not for the desire of any material gain. This is clearly work of the Pure Land, who are already spreading lies about the Boar Clan imperial ambitions. If Boar Clan can denounce any claim for Dog Clan lands, as soon as possible, it would put those slanderous rumors to rest.''

[Tebryn]

TURN 2

"Welcome Diplomats of the Summer Court, it is with great joy I proclaim the current threat of the Pure Land in their stronghold has been put to an end by the power and honor of the Fox, Tiger and Boar Clan. It grieves the Heavens to hear that not a single member of their organization was felled by the honorable Snake, however they will not escape the wrath of Heaven itself! If the Clans have any issues to place on the table, do so now. Otherwise the issues to be dealt within this Summer Court are as follows."


Issue One

A festival in honor of the Great Lord Ho shall be conducted now that the period of mourning is over. The Imperial coffers can be opened to accomplish this however the money within could perhaps be better spent on more pressing issues should they come up. A single seasons worth of Clan funding could accomplish the festival though more is certainly and eagerly accepted should it be offered. This festival will be held in the Imperial City unless funding is provided. Should funding be provided by a Clan or Clans, the Festival will be held in their land. This festival may rouse the Dog Clan members who have been swayed by the poison words of the Pure Land against the Empire to rejoin our cause.


Issue Two

Unsettling news from the South indicates that the Brood of Ursa have been conducting unusual movements, building a city on the steppes and inducting other tribes in a brutal campaign of slaughter should any not accept their terms of joining their swelling numbers. While the boarder defenses of the Horse after the Spring Court should be more than capable of shrugging off any attack they create it would perhaps be wise to send out scouts to investigate what exactly the Brood is doing. It is set before the council to decide if this plan should be approved and to chose who is most acceptable for this mission. Death of the scouting team is highly likely and may raise


Issue Three

As anticipated, the peasant class across the Empire has begun to grumble at the treatment of the Dog Lands, fearful that a crackdown on their freedoms and lives is about to begin. The Pure Land cult continues to stir up the population however without a clear location to strike they are difficult to track down. What is more, strange priests and vocal peasants have begun to add their voice to the fray, proclaiming the Boar Clan as taking aim at the Imperial Throne and the Fox Clan for attempting to herald in a new Barbarian Invasion based off reports of ship movements from their shores outside the Empire. The murmur of revolt must be silenced. It is up to the Courts how to do so.



Player Issues Raised

The Tanuki Clan


Issue One: Land Grant to Snake Clan

''The Snake Clan was promised lands for their work against Pure Land. They have utterly failed in their task to remove the leadership of the Pure Land, only serving to strengthen the Pure Land propaganda against the Council. If we give rewards for failure, there won’t be enough land in the whole Empire.''

''Tanuki Plan proposes to recall the land grant to Snake Clan, until their efforts against the Pure Land actually produce results.''


Issue Two: Dog Clan Lands Ownership

''We must decide who will control the Dog Clan Lands. Certainly we all heard that notion that those lands would be granted to Boar Clan for their bravery. A notion, unconfirmed by this Council. If we allow such gross misunderstandings, that any land can change hands within the Empire without Councils will, we will have many problems on our hands.''

''In fact it is a grave insult against the Boar Clan, who have undertaken this military campaign solely out of duty to the Empire and not for the desire of any material gain. This is clearly work of the Pure Land, who are already spreading lies about the Boar Clan imperial ambitions. If Boar Clan can denounce any claim for Dog Clan lands, as soon as possible, it would put those slanderous rumors to rest.''

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

Lull Xin bows to the Council and recites the Tanuki Clan proposals:

Issue One: Festival

''Clearly, all Clans should contribute equally to the festival, to signal the unity of the Council to the population.''

Issue Two: Brood of Ursa

''The Tanuki clan proposes to send Horse Clan, Boar Clan and Fox Clan armies to scout out the barbarian horde, burn down their city, scatter their soldiers by the winds and capture their weapons.''

''They are used to the Empire only defending our lands and wouldn’t expect such bold move. If we hesitate now, they will only gather more troops to their banners.''

Issue Three: Peasant Unrest

''The accusations against the Boar Clan are certainly ridiculous, but it’s understandable how the strange movements of the Fox Clan fleets might be suspicious. The Tanuki Clan proposes that we officially investigate the Fox Clan’s recent actions. If they are found innocent, then it will reassure the peasants of the Empire, that we are both diligent in protecting them and that the Fox Clan isn’t a threat to their well-being.''

[Grim ranger]

Snake Clan

The representative of the Snake Clan does not look at all ashamed or even as much as apoletig, instead looking at Tanuki representative with an amused expression. "And Tanuki Clan knows much success then? Clearly, they have done so very much to ensure the empire's prosperity. Where are your soldiers to help the empire in crushing the rebellious traitors in our midst? Where is, in fact, any action on your part that would leave you fit to discuss over success and failure? You are weak and rather useless Clan in our eyes... It is a wonder how you even have voice in this honoured Council. You should be more careful on who you decide to accuse of incompetence, least they turn their eyes on you."

Straightening his cloak, Snake diplomat carries on. "No, our efforts were not in vain. In fact, it is thanks to us that the interference of the Hakama has been confirmed as important factor in the escape of the traitors, and such information gives us great weapon against them. The rebels who pretend to be so honourable and pure are employing the worst cutthroats that the empire's underworld has to offer! If we spread this news, their support will crumble, and fewer will likely raise their voice against troops protecting them from knives in the night. As per usual, Tanuki ignored all this. Truly it is good thing that empire has such...keen-eyed protectors standing guard over important matters of state" he finishes, the cutting retorts against Tanuki Clan all too clear to anyone with half a brain.

Issue One: Festival

"Since Tanuki has done rather little to aid the empire yet, merely trying to demand rights to empire's food larders instead of actually doing anything productive, I propose that all expenses of the Festival will come from their pocket. Surely such fine subjects of our glorious nation would be all too pleased to provide boost to our collective morale?"

Issue Two: Brood of Ursa & Issue Three: Peasant Unrest

"In these matters, however, we agree with Tanuki Clan."

[Thelonius]

[OOC - Made this post before reading Horse Clan's. If possible let it chronologically precede theirs.]

Tanuki Clan

Lull Xing shruggs at the Snake Clan's words:

''Ah, just as expected of the Snake Clan. Instead of admitting failures and working to correct them, you start accusing other Clans of incompetence and making up excuses. And as far as excuses go, blaming Hakama is rather predictable one, especially considering they are you chief rivals in the dishonorable field of work.''

He shakes his head with a small smile: ''And how can we accuse Pure Land of using honourless cutthroats and villains of the lowest calibre, when we are employing Snake Clan? It will only serve to make us look like hypocrites.''

[Elemental]

I moved mine. Don't worry about it.


Horse Clan

Huang Lin rose to his feet.
Councillors... Before we seek to overthrow this meeting by bickering, I have an important proclamation to read.
He reached into his robe and draw out a scroll tied with rust-coloured ribbon.
Coughing slightly, he began.

"To His Excellency, the Lord Regent and to the Summer Court;
"I, Zhi Qiang, Lord of the Steppe, Guardian of the Southern Frontier and Castellan of Kun Shang, wish to inform you that the Yaanshii Tribe, previously unaligned barbarians, have pledged fealty to the Horse Clan.
"In return for our protection, they pay us an annuity of gold and silver into our treasury and offer what supplies of food they can spare to the Empire.
"In trust, faith and loyalty;
"Zhi Qiang."

If any object to this proclamation, speak now or forever hold your peace. But note... Only an order from the Throne has the authority to overturn our acceptance of vassals.
As for the other issues...

The Horse Clan is willing to transfer some of our wealth to pay for a festival. However, we shall object to unnecessary displays of decadence in light of the recent rebellion. We cannot have the peasants believing that we squander gold and silver.

The Ursa Brood is truly no threat to us. Our warriors will ride forth and discover everything about them. Then, we shall descend upon them and destroy everything they have built. Until this can be accomplished, it would be wise for the Fox Clan and the Boar Clan to begin moving some of their forces to staging areas near Kun Shang should the need arise.
However, the "Pure Land" may try and resurface in the intervening time, so it is essential that we not leave the Empire undefended from internal threats.

As for the issue of potential revolt, I believe we may silence much of our most vocal opposition if we simply leave the borders of the Dog Clan as they are. Thus, none may accuse any of us of moving against the "Pure Land" in the search of personal gain.

On the matters raised by the Tanuki... It is true that the Snake Clan did not accomplish very much against the leadership of the rebellion. As such, I propose an alternative to their receiving land immediately.
I feel that it would be best if the Lord Regent appoints a governor to administer the lands of the Dog Clan until such time as that clan can be restored. The governor should be a member of no clan that has an interest in controlling those territories.
Restoration of the status quo seems like the best option at this stage.

As for the words spoken against the Tanuki by the Snake...
Need I remind you that each clan is an equal part of this council? The Tanuki have done much for the Empire over its history. Many times other clans would have starved had the Tanuki not shared the bounty of their land.
However, if might is all that is important to you, the Horse will train the people of the Tanuki in the arts of war. And to that end, I extend an invitation to the Tiger, the Boar and the Fox to assist us in this matter.

[Voshkod]

Fox Clan

The AnaKhan had changed to her summer clothes, light cotton embroidered with gold. "Regarding the Brood of Ursa, the Fox Clan offers to deal with that threat. As for peasants and their muttering, well, we believe our solution works. Kill one of every ten that dares speak against us and the remaining nine will be quiet. Finally, out of respect for Lord Ho, the Fox Clan offers to pay for and host the great festival in his honor."

[Xondoure]

Crane Clane

Osagawa Toshiro is dressed in similar attire to when last they met. He is a frugal man, and not overly fond of the extravagance of the capital.

"This is excellent news Huang Lin. I am glad to hear you have expanded the borders of the empire. The Crane Clan has a similar announcement. As you know the shadow dancers of the southern islands have been strong allies of the empire since the days of the Jenshi dynasty, though they have never submitted to the Imperial law of the lord Ho, may his glory never diminish. However due to the marriage of Kane Seiko, cousin to the lord Kane Akira, to the Shadow Lord's heir the southern islanders have offered their support to the empire in this time of crisis. The eastern islands are now fully under the control of the Crane Clan."

At this Osagawa Toshiro brings forth the declaration, which he lays on the table.

"The official documentation lies here.

As to the other matters of state, I am pleased to hear the other clans believe we can afford such a spectacle. If I may, I would suggest each clan to release fireworks into the night sky over their capitals as a sign of unity, and to release a weeks worth of personal food stores so that there might be a moment of plenty before the drought begins to take its toll. Hopefully such action will endear us to the people, and lessen the blow of our enemies words.

The actions of our enemies beyond our borders is troublesome, but I would not encourage such assault so quickly. True, it might prevent them from ever reaching us, but it spreads our forces too thin. Which we cannot afford with such unrest in the empire. Besides which, I am unsure this Brood of Ursa is our true foe. Should we scatter them now, we may lose the opportunity to discover who is behind the veil. The Crane Clan recommends a cautious approach. A team of scouts willing to risk their lives for the protection of the empire will buy us more than armies and cost us less.

As for the third issue, the Crane Clan has determined to lower their own tax upon the people both to allow them respite from the coming drought, and to alleviate their fear of the empire's wrath. The decrease is minimal but it is actions such as this that buy the loyalty of our people. We realize that not all clans can afford such measures. However we ask that the imperial tax is lowered to accommodate for the needs of the citizens in this time of unrest."

[Erik Vale]

Sparrow Clan

Eragu spoke up.
"Such is fine, more than a few of the Barbarous and people who disliked the way our clan have run things have joined us over the years, both as clan and not. It will serve to strengthen your clan."
((The Sparrow Clan aproaves the horses clan desire to take a vassal)

Looking to the Snake clans diplomat, his voice took a darker tone.
"Lest you could present such evidence, you are laughable. We told you to have restraint and caution, but no... However you were supported, we did not speak out, and you did place effort. I suggest we give your clan less, than was asked for."
((Vote to reduce, but not completely remove, grant of land to the snake clan.))

"As to the other matters. The lands of the Dog Clan are, to my knowledge without real leadership, it would be fare to grant joint rulership of the lands, the the clans that assisted in the campain.It would be insane to say that the clans did this just out of honour. However, it is suggested that this is just until the lands of the Dog clan can have a rulership found, either in a distantly related family, or parts of their old rulership."
((Vote Boar clan has partial controll, along with the other aiding clans. This is only temporary))

"The southern barbarians can feel free to build their city. And there current act of creation was not to far from the creation of this empire. I say good luck, let their next generation tell if it is worthy of talking to. However if others wish to deal with it, then deal with it. It is of little concern, and a proper city will be, painful, to destroy."
((Abstain from Barbarian Group Ursa gaining power resolution.))

"As for the peasents murmerings. This must be dealt with, but not by cracking down on them, that shall only fuel the pyre untill it explodes, as fires due when oil is thrown upon them. Perhaps we should let the snake clan try and do it's job here, and actually do it well, that we may reconsider granting it lands. However we should grant something to, calm them. Perhaps extend a little more of the festivities their way. As for Taxes on the entire populace, perhaps a small one, but for the dog lands, It is a good idea."
((Vote: Have the Snake Clan deal with it Quitely. Add more money to the celebrations, sending it towards the lands of the Dog Clan. Lower Taxes in Dog Clan Lands.))

"Speaking of the Celebrations, we are more than willling to add our money to the celebrations. More so, should we hold a fair portion of it in the lands of the Dog Clans, perhaps making us willing to spend exctra. Not that we should make the imperial city's party any less extravagent. As to the ideas put forth to the Crane Clan, that idea is wonderful, I hear some of our powder specialists have come up with some new shapes and colours..."
((Vote: Sparrow Clan willing to spend money on festivities. Especially should a fair bit of it head to the Dog Clan's parties.))

[ArcaneStomper]

Boar Clan

We say go farther than mere fireworks. Instead of just one festival let one be held in the lands of each clan. After all what help does a festival in one portion of the empire bring to the peasants who can not see it. It is merely a waste of gold in their view, especially in this time of drought. But if every peasant can see a festival of their own. Then they will hold a different view. The Boar clan will open its coffers to fund such a plan.

We also are in favor of sending a scouting party to this new city of the Brood of Ursa. It will take time for our armies to move from the Dog Lands to the Southern Border, and even when they do information is the key to any battle, and especially a siege.

We support the Snake's grant of land. We admit that we are unimpressed by their efforts, and the warnings of the Hakama involvement sound much like poor excuses to our ears. But it was agreed to grant them land in return for their services. And the Boar always support the upholding of such contracts. In the future however we deem it necessary to add a success and failure clause to all dealings with the Snake.

We already search for the Dog Clan survivors. If we can find just one member of the Dog Clan who remained steadfast to the Empire then we will support returning the Dog Clan lands to them. Until such time as that, or if it is determined that no such loyal heir exists we will hold the lands in trust.

A final word to the Fox Clan. If you believe that killing one out of every te peasants will silence the murmurs of discontent then we suggest that you do so in your own lands. If you are successful then we will support doing so in all the Empire. However we do not believe that it will have the effect you desire.

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

''The Tanuki Clan would approve of extending protection to the barbarians, who are willing to provide us tribute and pledge fealty.''

''We are generally in favour of most suggestions by the Sparrow Clan, except one. The proposal to allow the Barbarians create their own Empire on our doorsteps is simply ludicrous. When a weed sprouts near your fields, you don’t wait for it to grow and spread. You burn it out as soon as possible.''

''We are also against Boar Clan’s proposal to have each Clan finance festivals in their lands. Such waste of resources in the time, when Empire needs every bit of coin and smallest bit of grain is not something we can approve of. We all wish to honor the great Lord Ho, but nothing would trouble his blessed spirit more, then us wasting away his Empire, like wastrel sons drinking and eating away the life’s work of their deceased father.''

''We would like to propose the following – the Horse Clan would send scouts, but the armies of the Boar and Fox Clans would start moving immediately against the Ursa’s Brood. The Horse Clan horses would carry the scouts swiftly forth and back, so that by the time the Empire’s armies arrive to this city of the Barbarians, they’ll know everything, there is to know.''

[Erik Vale]

The Sparrow Clan

"While such was the answer I expected, perhaps you should think of it differently. Tribe Ursa builds up, then given time I can think of no reason for it not to join us. Much the same as the way this empire was formed."

Ergau looks away from the Tanuki Clan speaker, skimming over the others.
"But as the Boar Clan says, and I alluded to, we should spread the celebration around. They need not to be as large, or bearing as much diplomatic attention from each other, just some funtionaries and the leader of each clan within their own lands, but it would be a great boon, especially to the peasents currently fearing for themselves, or treated harshly."
For the last phrase, Eragu looks at the Fox Clan speaker. It is no secret that the Sparrow Clan very much disproves such things, having very much thinned the boundries of the caste system (to some family members benifit, to somes loss, and to the citizenry's gain). However, this is one of the things that make almost all veiw the clan insane (how did Lord Ho even put up with that group, let alone favour them in any way?). Sure banditry was low (not non existant though) and their peasents were happier (it was said that some peasents moved to the Sparrow lands, hampered only by some of Sparrow's other ideas) bt they were.... Peasents.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Boar Clan

Zukon snorts, "Perhaps you should brush up on your precious history scrolls Sparrow. The Empire did not grow by waiting for other kingdoms and tribes to peacefully join us. We struck and fought. When the stick was not enough we bargained and negotiated, but we never just waited for the barbarians to simply join us out of the goodness of their hearts."

"It is true that perhaps the Ursa could join the empire. And perhaps diplomacy may even be the answer here. But the thing to do is not to wait for them. If anything the comparison of the Brood of Ursa to a young Empire is even more cause for concern than simple barbarians. They are young and hot blooded, and if they should see the Empire as old and doddering, especially with the great lord Ho so recently dead, then they are more apt to try and carve a few hefty chunks for their new kingdom than to come to us like supplicants."

"If such is the will of the council then Boar clan will move to the border following the Horse scouts. We will show that the Empire is still vigorous and mighty. Perhaps if the Brood is a more reasonable brand of barbarian they will see the way their path lies and become Clan Ursa. If not we will crush their city and show them the power of the Empire."

He leans back. "We do agree with the Sparrow's idea for smaller clan festivals however. That should do nicely to calm the peasants. Perhaps if a clan can contribute more heavily there can still be one grand festival in the Imperial city."

[Elemental]

Horse Clan

I am in agreement with Zukon Zhao.
We shall send out our scouts and ready our warriors. When the Boar, and whosoever wishes to assist us in this endeavour, we shall cross the border and crush them with our combined military strength. I merely request that the Boar leave some of their forces behind in case the "Pure Land" raises its head again.
We will do likewise.

As for a festival... We shall hold one in Kun Shang and make use of fireworks so that the people within view of the city can share in some small way, share our celebration.
We have more than enough funds at our disposal for this. However, due to the distances involved, it will take some time for money to arrive from Kun Shang to assist in payment of the main festival. As such, I urge the remainder of this council to be patient, and we shall pay our share before the first leaves fall.

[Erik Vale]

Eragu snorted, and shock a little with barely contained laughter.
"We of the Sparrow rose to the power of a clan several times over our history in the formation of this empire, ever ignored, as we sat peacefully growing. We never we're offered, and infact one of our own diplomats came to ask. SO I suggest you take a visit to the history section of your clan liberies, or fix them if they we're accidentally destroyed by one of the many Boars."
Eragu shock his head.
"However, I do not dissagree that they would rather fight, I merely suggest restraint before we send forth the might of the empire. We're it to come to war, the men and women-" (One of the ideas the Sparrow clan held. It was up there with female leaders and other nonsense, however equality of gender was one of the Sparrow values. One of the ones that jarred the other clans and made them laughing stock.) "Will join the fight as willingly as any other. Besides. Troops seem to enjoy using fireworks to destroy cities, and prefer knowing that it isn't some shoddy mimic of a Sparrow construction likely to kill them."

[ArcaneStomper]

Boar Clan

Zukon nodes his head solemnly. "Your informants must be indeed better than we had thought Sparrow, for not many know that my grandfather's favorite pet sow ran through the Boar archives damaging one of the record scrolls. We thought little of it at the time as the scroll had been laid in the minor clan bin. But now I see that this must have been a grave misfiling on the part of our archivists as it must have contained the records of the great and powerful armies of the Sparrow in their pre empire days. It is to my detriment that I missed the obvious parallel between your clan's peaceful life before their acceptance into the empire and the Brood of Ursa's constant raids on the Horse clan."

He bows his head slightly, "I concede that your grasp of history is much greater than mine venerable Sparrow, and thank you for this insight."

[Tebryn]

Midterm Vote Tally


Issue One: Festival for Emperor Ho

Small Festivals Through out the Empire

Boar
Sparrow
Horse
Crane


Make the Tanuki Pay for it

Snake

Fox will pay for it

Fox



Issue Two: Brood of Ursa

Scout and Attack

Tanuki
Horse
Boar
Snake

Fox will deal with them

Fox

Leave them be

Sparrow



Issue Three: Peasent Dissonance

Leave the Dog Lands as they are to quell the revolt

Horse

Kill them

Fox
Boar (If it works in Fox Lands)

Lower Taxes

Crane

Have the Snake deal with it

Sparrow



Tanuki Issue One: Land Grant to the Snake

Against

Tanuki

For

Boar
Snake

Reduce Land Grant

Sparrow


Tanuki Issue Two: Dog Land Ownership

Keep Land for the Dog or Retainers

Tanuki
Horse
Boar

Horse Issue One: Horse Trains the Tanuki-Special Vote only for Tanuki Clan

For

Against


"As it stands, these are the following votes for the proposed issues." The Lord Regent intones, moving a hand over the table in a gesture of summation. "We shall ask that all welcome the Rat Clan and their ambassador to the Summer Court, Lady Shu Fan Kezami. She will be sitting in on the end of this Council and will return in the Winter Court as an acting member of the Court."

[Xondoure]

Osagwa Toshiro looked surprised at the announcement.

"It would indeed bring us back up to the previous ten. However rat has no lands. What stake do they have that needs representation on this council?"

He turns and bows to the lady Shu Fan.

"The crane clan means no disrespect. The rat clan have served the empire well. I simply wish to understand the reasoning behind the decisions of the lord regent."

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

Votes:

Small Festivals Throughout the Empire

Vote: In favour, [If they are small]

Peasant Dissonance

Vote: Abstain

Land Grant to Snake

Change vote to: Reduce Land Grant

Horse Clan Training Soldiers in Tanuki Lands

Vote: In favour

To Tebryn Only

I’m building up my food supplies and training some militia with Horse Clan.

[whoiam]

Rat Clan
"I can understand your surprise, Lord Toshiro. After all, what Clan can be truly considered great if their leader is too impoverished to afford a representative?"

That she knew the diplomat's identity shouldn't be much of a surprise. Shu had been at court throughout the last council, despite not being allowed entrance to the council itself. She had, however, not been doing anything too important to the Ambassadors (unless any of them needed banking services during their visit to the Capital) themselves.

And for the record, she's certainly not too poor to get a representative. But after being left out of the first council entirely and receiving a late invitation to the second one, she wasn't about to pass off the chance to pretend to be in the big leagues to a subordinate...

"Traditionally, my ancestors get invited onto the Council every time a great Clan falls from grace. Why? Money, usually. The Empire always needs it during times of upheaval. And there are other numbers. Someone always comes up with the bright idea that counting this or recording that would help solve the current crisis.

(Although, in fairness, if you select the correct 'this' and 'that' then the logic usually works out fairly well.)"

Finally, Shu smiles at her new colleagues. "Although I suspect the number the Lord Chamberlain wanted me to make was a simple '10'..."

[Elemental]

Horse Clan

Huang Lin was a touch apprehensive about the Rat Clan's late arrival. His Clan had few dealings with them, and as such, politically, they were an enigma.
Welcome Lady Shu Fan Kezami. I trust that you are well.

Apologies for cutting the pleasantries short, but we should attend to business.
Concerning payment for the planned festivals, I believe that no one clan should pay for the entirety of the celebration, even if it is their wish to do so.

And I speak for my liege, Zhi Qiang, when I say that I am glad that the Tanuki has accepted our offer to train them in the art of war. In a few short years, you should have a not insignificant force at your command.

[Xondoure]

Osagawa Toshiro was concerned. The number ten was the traditionally in play so that the imperial seat could settle disputes as a tie breaker. With the fall of the dog clan no such place had been necessary, something he had thought fitting as there was no emperor to have the final say. Only now control was back in the hands of the lord regent. Perhaps more so considering Rat's close ties to the imperial city, and management of the empire. Still, this could be used to their advantage. Rat was critical to much of Crane's operations. And as such both clans had a firm dependency in the other's affairs. If he was careful that in itself could be made an advantage.

"As you come into the meeting after the beginnings of our proceedings allow me to reiterate the arguments made by the Crane Clan.

We support the decision to spread festivities throughout the empire as a symbol of unity. But we do not approve of the more military approach put forth by the other clans.

Surely we must first learn how it is that this brood of ursa so quickly gathers strength before we strike. I remind us all once more that we may have a greater enemy capable of supplying them with such tools. And that it would be the utmost of foolishness for us to scatter the brood before we know what is at stake.

As to the matter of peasant unrest we suggest that taxes be lowered for the time being. This is especially important should we expect true war within the next few years. As a chance for the people to gather themselves before we must ask more of them in the interest of the empire should leave us stronger for it."

At this he turns his attention to the Tanuki.

"As to the matters brought forth by the Tanuki, I suggest Snake and Boar both receive a portion of the dog lands for their efforts. But that they share a third between them, and that the rest of the land be granted to the Rat Clan. If they are to have seat on this council than they should speak in the interest of the people. And the nature of the Rat Clan's work leaves them uniquely suited to seeing to the needs of the people."

[Thelonius]

Tanuki Clan

Lull Xun’s face changes into a look of incredulity at the Toshiro's speech. He answers shortly:

''Everything the Crane Clan just said about the issues of the Dog Clan’s lands ownership is sheer... foolishness. I can only assume that the summer heat has addled the mind of the esteemed representative.''

[Xondoure]

"I assure you my mind is unharmed. Should a surviving member of the dog clan emerge then by all rights the lands are theirs. Until then the Dog Clan's territory needs new leadership. Snake has not earned the lands that were promised, and Boar is already a robust nation. By placing Rat in charge we ensure that the clan will work in the interest of the people. And as the peoples of the Dog Clan do not trust us, a new face may mitigate the chances of a second rebellion. Of course, this is only my opinion on the matter."

[Erik Vale]

Sparrow Clan
"Lady Shu, I appologise for the disrespect this implies but..." Eragu then turns on the Crane Speaker.
"Xun is very much correct, you must be in need of a cooled drink and fanning. The Rat Clan is not allowed controll of lands, they are merely allowed to facilitate it, by Imperial Edict. Would you have it that after so short a time you would speak such filth in the Imperial house, would you be so happy to desecrate the rullings of the Imperial household..."
Eragu shakes his head.
"Besides, most of the poeples that make up the clans veiw those of the Rat clan with distate, as dirty berauctrats with too much power, travelling from place to place peddling minor junk, and veiw them as bearers of Snake Clan assasins and agents. Having any part of the land truely controlled by the Rat Clan would through the populace into another revolt. I support the idea of slightly more of their beraucrats than normal, but not more."

[whoiam]

Rat Clan

"Peddling minor junk and bearers of Snake Clan Assassins? Honestly, Lord Panager, you sound as though you cannot tell us from the Merchants of the Crane clan... Believe me when I tell you that only Imperial Edict would make us deliberately aid the Snake's covert operations.

It is, Lord Itachi, not a personal opinion on our part, nor commentary on your kins' contributions to the running of the Empire. Simply a philosophical aversion to anything which must be done... 'off the books', as the scribes say. We have spent too long perfecting our paper records to appreciate being ordered to leave things off.

As to the land grant, I myself am in two minds. There is no legal problem with us taking control of a portion of the Dog Clan territory. There is an Edict on file preventing us from owning land, but it only applies to our ancestral lands in the territory of the Tiger Clan. So legally we *could* take control.

And for obvious reasons, I would like to have territory... if for nothing else than the novelty value.

To weigh against my avariciousness, there is the knowledge that Lord Panager gave a more or less accurate assessment of the peasantry's opinion of my kinsmen. We would not be all that popular a choice with those you placed us over... though I would wager we will be more popular than Boar or Snake. The Rebellion may have been crushed, but every revolutionary peasant that fell to a Snake Knife or a Boar Sword left behind half a dozen loyal peasants with a grudge... who will now feel that they're being treated as an occupied foe, and carved up by the victors...

I would also have to add that, of all the possible clans that could be given control of part of the Dog Clan lands, we are the only Clan without an experienced Noble Caste to call upon. So even if you did entrust us with land, our running of it would likely be... unconventional. An experiment I would happily carry out, but at a time of crisis may not be the best point to give me control of an unstable region.

Tanuki Issue Two: Dog Clan Land Ownership:
Vote: Abstention

Now, to the other points mentioned by Lord Toshiro:
In the matter of taxes, I would support a decrease in taxes for the time being. Not out of any belief that low taxes now will lessen the impact of war in the future - quite the opposite in fact, I think high taxes now to help *pay* for a war in future would be the wiser move - but because the Empire will be on short rations at least until the next good harvest. Coupling high taxes with hungry bellies is always a dangerous mixture. Especially in a period of already existing unrest.

Issue Three: Peasant Dissonance
Vote: Lower Taxes

While I do not know exactly what military approach was being advocated, I have to disagree wtih the Lord Toshiro's proposed strategy for dealing with the Brood of Ursa. What do we know? They gain in strength as we wait. Does it matter if they do so by their own artifice or that of an external power? Yes, but only in the long term. In the short term, they must be dealt with before they can challenge our armies as equals.

Besides, with any luck our martial colleages may be able to seize food supplies - easing the food problems inside the Empire - or take enough captives to discover the secret of the Brood's ascension through interrogation. A military assault does not necessarily mean the Brood's secrets have to die with the Brood.

Issue Two: Brood of Ursa
Vote: Scout and Attack

All Other Votes: Currently Abstaining.

[Xondoure]

Osagawa Toshiro raised his eyes at Eragu's words.

"If I have had too much to drink it was of an amount so high I have forgotten my consumption of it. But surely this is a different man I see before me than the one I know. You who place yourself pridefully against many of our oldest traditions. And yet you see this one, a remnant of a long past conflict worthy of upholding? Pray tell what sin has the Rat Clan been guilty of that you would insult them so? It cannot be that the lady Shu herself is a woman, for the same can be said of your clan's leader. If we are to work together in this time of crisis then we must be willing to see the best in one another.

True, the Rat Clan is not a popular choice. I am as of yet baffled that the position of ruling the Dog Territory is considered a prize. I would not give it to them out of charity, but out of a need to share responsibility. Whoever manages these lands will have to deal with the worst of the peasant's dissent. And to many of our people, some of which I now realize are in this room, the Rat represents the worst of the bureaucracy. If they are able to win themselves over to the common people, it could well lay rest much of the discordance that has so plagued us since the time of our Lord Ho's passing, may his memory last till the dying of the heavens.

In other words, I propose it as a test to see if they might measure up to the other clans, and earn their place on this council."

[Erik Vale]

Eragu shakes his head.
"My clan may fly in the face of tradition, but we stand by imperial eddict. However I see this isn't a argument that I am going to win. Call it a test if you would and set it up how you must to make the loophole wide enough to fit through the RAt Clan, I shall not stop you, but know that I disagree with this action."

[Tebryn]

Midterm Vote Tally


Issue One: Festival for Emperor Ho

Small Festivals Through out the Empire

Boar
Sparrow
Horse
Crane


Make the Tanuki Pay for it

Snake

Fox will pay for it

Fox



Issue Two: Brood of Ursa

Scout and Attack

Tanuki
Horse
Boar
Snake
Rat

Fox will deal with them

Fox

Leave them be

Sparrow



Issue Three: Peasent Dissonance

Leave the Dog Lands as they are to quell the revolt

Horse

Kill them

Fox
Boar (If it works in Fox Lands)

Lower Taxes

Crane
Rat

Have the Snake deal with it

Sparrow



Tanuki Issue One: Land Grant to the Snake

Against

Tanuki

For

Boar
Snake

Reduce Land Grant

Sparrow

Abstain

Horse




Tanuki Issue Two: Dog Land Ownership

Keep Land for the Dog or Retainers

Tanuki
Horse
Boar


Horse Issue One: Horse Trains the Tanuki-Special Vote only for Tanuki Clan

Dealt with Outside of Council.

[ArcaneStomper]

Boar Clan

Zukon remains silent as he listens to the debate over the ownership of the dog lands. He had already made the Boar's stance clear, to retain the Dog lands in regency until a loyal member of the Dog Clan could be found, and felt no need to reiterate.

[Elemental]

Returning briefly to a vote that had slipped his mind, Huang Lin decided it would be best to abstain from voting on the land grant to the Snake.

[Erik Vale]

Sparrow Clan

As always, Eragu made his statements so he could go one of either ways latter. Specifically, now he was pledging soldiers to aid in the attack rockets and black-powder, particularly Sparrow's variants, would work at their best, better than any other. And the troops could try out the repeating bows, still needing tinkering, but it would allow for more of the less skilled to join the fray. His support went towards a lowered taxation, however cursing, knowing that this may set things back more in the Sparrow's lands than expected, and again he voiced, more vocally, his support for the Dog lands to be kept in trust, waiting for retainers.

[Tebryn]

*Placeholder*

[Erik Vale]

((Placeholding Bump. Combined with a necromantic resurection, so fix that placeholder so gameply can continue))