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+---- Thread: ~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ (/showthread.php?tid=2525)
~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ - Lucend - 12-14-2007
The night was getting long. Rain was pounding on the roof but inside the atmosphere was light hearted. Annoyingly earsplitting Kusari wind-music was drifting through the air and oil lamps produced light which bounced off the floors and walls: looking like wood but realistically was probably closer to a highly reinforced metal.
Several more KNF officers started to file into the dingy little Tea Room, and the gaijin at the bar suddenly started to get uncomfortable. More law meant more people that could potentially kill him. He was just thinking about leaving when another stranger came into the establishment.
This stranger stood out like a cowboy in a room full of cone-headed Kusarians. In fact, thats exactly what it looked like. The obvious gaijin wore a cowboy hat with a large cloth draped over his shoulders, a large shotgun slung over his back and a cigar that looked as though it were being slowly eaten alive. He made his way to the front bar and sat down to the other, much less obvious foreigner.
He removed his cigar from the death-trap that was his teeth and flicked the ashes at the end out on the ashtray between him and the other foreigner.
"Names Marquez, Andre Marquez. Seems we're the only buckaroos in this room. That makes us brothers." His Liberty accent was strong, much stronger than most Liberty citizens.
"Liberty, huh? I don't have any brothers in Liberty, friend..." His pad beeped and he looked down at it. His ship was ready and it was time for him to go.
"Well, nice meeting you, I've got a train to catch." The kimono-draped gaijin rose and started to head for the door, but a shout from the bar made his freeze in his path.
"Juan Lucendez," Marquez shouted, spinning around and unholstering his shotgun and cocking it. "You are under arrest by the Bounty Hunter's Guild for crimes against humanity." Marquez pointed his shotgun at him and heads went down. Juan looked around the tea room, the security systems were disabled. The KNF officers didn't have their side-arms with them. All eyes were on the two gaijin standing in the middle of the bar.
Juan's hands went up slowly, he whispered under his breath, "Perfect."
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Juan looked around at his position. He was still in a throng of people, so ran into a crowd, knowing the Bounty Hunter wouldn't dare shoot into the people. Running to the far side, he kicked over a table close the entrance to the main bar and used the metal table as cover. Once the crowd thinned, Juan heard shells hitting the table every other second. He responded by blindly shooting the other upturned table.
"So, you tracked me down. Hired by the Chrysanthemums? Or just out for general Corsair heads?" He raised his body and took aim at the table, almost getting Andre in the shoulder, but missing. The Bounty Hunter fell back.
"Boy, you have no idea, and will never know, why I'm going to kill you. You will never leave Kusari space, I promise ya." He cocked his fully-loaded shotgun, raised the barrel and made a couple of deep dents into the opposite table.
Juan thought. This was not going to end well. Even though Andre and Juan were both gaijins, the police would definately side with the Bounty Hunter than the Corsair.
Lucendez looked around. Where had the bartender gone? Juan didn't see him leave, he couldn't have escaped that quickly. Juan reloaded his gun, rose and gave himself some cover fire as he made his way to the entrance to behind the bar. As predicted, the barkeep was not to be seen, but a hastily concealed trap-door was.
Lucendez was reminded of Marquez's presence when the Saki bottles on top of the bar suddenly exploded due to a shotgun blast, soaking Juan and making glass tumble all around him.
"Give up 'Sair, the police will be here any moment and you've got nowhere else to run."
"Freeze!" A new voice came through the door to the Tea Room. A squad of police stormed in and restored order. The policemen hand-cuffed Andre and searched the entire establishment.
"Hey! I'm a Bounty Hunter! Look! Back pocket!" The head-policeman, unimpressed by the credentials, asked Marquez exactly why he was shooting up a Tea Room at the literal zenith of Kusari space.
"A Corsair! In the Bar! He's mine I tell you. You can't arrest him because he's MINE!" Andre started to shoot spit out of his mouth as he was talking. The policeman held up an authoritative hand and asked his partner if he had seen anybody else in the Tea Room.
"Negative, sir."
~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ - Ophiuchi - 01-29-2008
Admiral Hikaru Sulu, Supreme Commander of all Kusari Naval forces, sat in the small back room of the Perfect Blossom. Several of his command staff sat with him, drinking tea. These informal briefings were often held away from the noise and confusion of the High Command's New Tokyo compound.
Sulu's attention was drawn from the datapad he was viewing by the unexpected presence of a small, middle-aged man who walked through the beaded curtains of the small alcove. The man was Kusaran, but was tastefully dressed in a well-tailored "western" suit, complete with vest. Sulu's perceptive gaze was drawn immediately to a small tie-pin which held the man's dark blue cravat in place. it was fashioned in the shape of a triangle, with a blood-red ruby gleaming near the apex. The man's demeanor was intense and somber, as he bowed slightly to the Admiral.
"Sulu Taichou. If you will permit me. I am Ashi Tebayai, Advisor to our Beloved Emperor, and Deputy Minister of Defense for Kusari." The man then looked pointedly at the staff members seated with the Admiral, and gave a slight jerk of his head towards the doorway.
Taking the man's clue, Admiral Sulu bowed his head and spoke to his staff. "Gentlemen, if you will excuse us for a moment." The Officers seemed taken aback, but immediately rose, bowed, and left the alcove. Sulu nodded to the empty seat across from him, and the man sat down without hesitation.
"I will be brief, Taichou." said the Minister as he removed a small formal scroll from the inside pocket of his jacket and handed it across to Sulu. The Admiral noticed the red wax seal bearing the Emperor's sigil affixed on the scroll before he unrolled it and studied the contents.
Momentarily, Sulu looked up and stared at Tebayai before speaking. "This orders me to place a 'Hatchet' at your disposal, along with a fighter escort. Might I know why a Ministry Official needs a Kusari destroyer, Tebayai-san?"
The Minister stared back at Sulu, and waved his hand slightly, as if the matter were of minimal importance. "My mission is confidential, Taichou, but I see no reason that I cannot divulge my destination. I will be attending a small conference in Sigma 19. Your fighters will escort me there, and the Destroyer will remain on station at the Hawaii with me until my business is concluded. That is all you need to know."
A skeptical frown crossed the face of Hikaru Sulu; but he had not reached his position of command by ignoring signed orders from the Emperor of Kusari himself. "Very well, Minister Tebayai. A newly commissioned Hatchet is currently undergoing its shakedown cruise in Hiroshima. You may transfer your flag to it by week's end. Will that be soon enough for your needs, sir?"
The official poured a cup of tea, and raised it towards the Admiral. "That will be sufficient, Sulu-san. I must insist that no word of this be made to your Staff, or even to other Ministries. My mission is crucial, and must not risk compromise in any way. Tebayai's eyes carried a feral, almost threatening glint as he downed the last of his tea, rose, bowed again, and left the alcove.
Sulu required several moments to overcome a feeling of dread and loathing for this mysterious yet apparently powerful stranger. Composed again, he rose and motioned from the alcove's door for his Staff Officers to rejoin him.
~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ - RingoW - 03-16-2008
Lieutenant Inuye Toshi opened the door made a step in and was throwing a look into the rooms. In the dimmed light he could notice several guests, all in KNF uniforms. The air was filled with a slight and fine aroma of herbs and spices and he took a deep breath. Spare decorations in the alcovens rounded up the nice atmosphere.
'So this is the Perfect Blossom Tea Room' he spoke to himself with a chilled smile.
On his way to the bar he was greeting the present officers. He knew none of them and none of them showed to much interest in the new Lieutenant. So he recognized, privacy is the most important thing in these rooms.
"Ah always a pleasure to see a new face among the KNF officers. What can i bring you?" he was greeted by the barkeeper.
"A green tea. Thanks."
He was throwing another look into the rooms from his place on the bar. The other officers made a chilled impression but there was something in their faces. Some kind of mourning and they were quiet. His look was wnadering back to the barkeeper, who filled hot water in a glas with green tea leaves and additionally a tiny peace of a vanilla husk.
"I thought there is enough vanilla aroma in the air." he was kidding to the barkeeper, when he brought the tea after filtering the rehash into another glas.
"Nah, it is different you will taste."
"What is with the officers here. They are quiet or do whispering and it seems they are in a bad mood. What happened?
"These are officers of Minister Tebayais flagship. He was assassinated on a mission and they failed to investigate the incident, which lead to his death. Also there was no state funeral, where they could give a farewellment. The funeral was held in privacy with family members only."
"Ah, to be honest, i never heard much about Minister Tebayai. Just noticed the message about his death in the KNF reports."
"Only a few had knowledge about him. About his person and about his tasks. Rarely i saw him here. Only when he came to transmit tasks to present officers, even Admiral Sulu, and to drink a tea."
"Seems you know a lot of things not many know." Toshi was kidding again.
"Well, i'm a barkeeper. I'm supposed to know a lot of things." the barkeeper said with a blink.
"But i do absolutely know nothing about you Lieutenant. Normally i know all Lieutenants of the KNF, even a lot ensigns."
"Not much to say. I'm not long a Lieutenant and as an ensign i thought to be not honoured enough to come here and we had much action. To much. I get the feeling it was becomming worster since i'm a Lieutenant, but finally i want to visit this place at least once. Everyday can be the last and i have faced the death more than one time. The wind has changed and Kusari isn't longer the place i know from my childhood. Also the KNF duty isn't longer something my father and grandfather told me."
"The war against Bretonia has changed many things and to be honest, i think it is a mistake." the barkeeper was countering. "Before the war many bretonian officers came here when they were on fleet visitings. They have the same brave and straight officers as Kusari has. What ever might be there in the Taus, i hope it is worth all the lives that have been spent."
Inuye Toshi was shaking his head slightly. "Maybe, i never met bretonians outside a battle and it isn't the war. The frontlines were becoming quiet after the first offensives. No. I was speaking about the situation within Kusari. Something must have been changed with the Blood Dragons. My father often told me about his encounters with Blood Dragons. More than one time both sides were equal and after some minutes with no advantage for one side they hailed eachother and returned to the bases. Thes fights were fights of true Samurais, but now. Which deamon ever has beaten the Blood Dragons they fight til the bitter end and are taking use of all twilight individuums they can pull on their side for credits. And what they are fighting for? Their Shogun and founder are dead a long time, while Kusari has changed to a more liberate colony.
The barkeeper lifted his brews." Kusari is far away to be that perfect colony you want to speak of, Lieutenant and the influence of Samura to our government is not good. I guess all problems we have within our colony are staying and falling with Samura, at least the head of Samura, because i also know a lot of honest Samura employees."
"I know it isn't perfect, but when i look to Liberty with their governmental oppression or Rheinland with their bankrupt economy, Kusari is a much better place. Btw, are you not in fear, when speaking your opinion out loud so free? Someone could get the impression of you, beeing a symphatisant of the Blood Dragons."
The barkeeper was showing an odd smile. "You have started to claim Kusari a more liberate colony. So i took the opportunity to speak freely and i'm the barkeeper here long before you was born Lieutenant. I have seen Shoguns and Admirals comming and going and all officers which do know me, are aware of my political opinion."
"You are indeed, a strange barkeeper." Toshi said with a wink of his eyes.
"I'll take this as a compliment. Now i have to take care about my other guests and i must be prepared for a KNF staff meeting tonight. Was nice to speak with you Lieutenant and you are always welcome, especially if you don't know where to go and bring all new officers with you. I must be updated." The barkeeper took a tablet with drinks for the other officers, but turned back to Inuye Toshi. "A word of advise, Lieutenant. There is a certain officer within the KNF. Even though he is a gaijin, he has a kind of wisdom you should listen to."
Has said it and was bringing the drinks to the other officers.
Toshi pulled some credits out of his wallet and placed them near the empty glas before he was leaving to return for duty 'Should he really have meant ensign Hoaxley?' he thought. 'It can't be. This funny, crazy ensign and wisdom? Well, we'll see.'
~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ - wrathkin - 04-20-2008
Takeshi Mori paused outside the doors to the Perfect Blossom, and gathered himself. Last time he was on Roppongi, he had been a Yoriki in disfavor, and during his visit had felt or registred little but shame.
This time, he thought to himself, he would savor the freedom from paperwork the visit would give him. Now a Machi-bugyoh, master of the state police and arm of the Shogun himself, his position was quite different from last time.
As he entered the establishment, he noted that his young companion was showing some discomfort.
"Calm yourself. Just think of it as another battle, Hara-san"
The young Yoriki almost startled - almost - and straightened his already straight back a last half inch.
"With respect, this is not my battleground, Machi-bugyoh - I don't even know the rules of engagement"
The senior officer smiled faintly as they approached an empty table.
"You will learn I think... just as you will learn to handle that little piece of hardware you seem to struggle so with. After flying a bomber against every enemy of the Emperor for five years, how hard can it be to master a small fighter?"
Before his assistant could answer, he continued: "Never mind. It will come to you, as it came to me."
As they sat back in silence and waited to be served, Takeshi surveyed the room. There were a lot of traders, and also quite a lot of KNF officers. A few KSP officers were to be seen, but old were of the old guard, and he recognized none. He would tread lightly here, he mused - his position was nowhere near secure yet, and the Shogun could yet decide that he should be replaced along his colleague.
~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ - LoTeK_ - 08-13-2008
In a private room of the perfect blossom tea, Sulu was drinking his sake while conversating with other high officers.
Senseis Chijin, Sakai, Hayase and Akamoto were present.
<< Sulu Teichou... >> said Chijin << ...so what I have heard about this artifact is true! I just couldn't believe it >>>
This was an argument of interest, the conversation between officers suddently stopped and an uncommon silence was filling the room.
<< Hai! The lost artifact felt in Dragon hands but our honor still lies untouched, we stood as brave warriors and fought until the end, for our Emperor. We done our best >>
The admiral made a short pause to drink his sake before continuing.
<< Do not worry however, all of you. We will have our chance to take it back when the time will be right. If we does not know what it is, they does not know that too >>
<< Hai, its meaning... worries me... >> said Hayase << I have been near it at times, observing it behind the protective glass and I felt... strange, like when someone is looking at you...but I was alone, I am sure of that >>
<< Hmm.. >> Sulu was listening carefully.
He had this sensation too since he spent some time with the Artifact, looking at it... somehow attracted by it... maybe attempting to disclose its secrets, like if it would have been possible without any intruments or particular knowledge.
A minute of silence passed.
~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ - Ophiuchi - 08-16-2008
"Ah, my sister and brothers, the universe is revolving too fast for this old man." Chijin leaned forward and placed his elbows on the table as he spoke, a posture not common among the very prim and correct Kusarans.
"We see strange new occurrences, and miraculous objects. We see a new race of machines evolving. We see alliances, and enmities not dreamt of in the past.
"And, we may see treachery and deception as well. I recommend extreme caution when retrieving this artifact. What may appear to be the right time for us may also be the right time for someone else."
~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ - Ophiuchi - 08-26-2008
In a small alcove of the Perfect Blossom reserved for civilian pilots, Trading Master Bo Sun Gen of the Kishiro Fleet sat across from another figure in muted civilian clothing.
"Takata-san, I am happy you responded to my invitation." said Captain Bo. "I have been instructed by certain people in the KNF to ask a favor of you, sir."
"We have had certain... overtures. However, due to the delicate nature of politics in Kusari at present, it would not be wise nor seemly for KNF High Command to respond directly. It is felt that your past ties to certain elements in Kusari would make you ideal for a mission to contact those who have made these inquiries."
Takata Ran, formerly of the Hogosha's Black Dragons was silent for a few moments as he digested this information. He sipped his tea as he reflected.
"I would not be averse to helping, Master Bo, if the cause.. and the price.. is right. Can you tell me more about these "overtures"?
Bo Sun Gen rose from the table and motioned to Takata Ran. "Walk with me, Takata-san. Even the Perfect Blossom is a dangerous place to speak of such things."
~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ - Joggin - 08-27-2008
Takata briefly reflected upon his recent past aquaintancies with the Black Dragons and the vicious infight which had led to the break up and dissolution of the Faction. A truly dedicated bunch of heroic Kusarians turned against one another by in fighting and the sly drip, drip of Outcast propoganda. Never let it be forgotten!
To the present: In truth he was somewhat overawed by the gracious presence of Master Bo Sun Gen, however, instinctive survival skills kicked in to quickly control emotions..."Stay cool, these guy's might just need me! My chance for redemption." A way to new alliances and freedoms, his mind raced! Survival is key!
"Maybe this is an opportunity to provide a unique service, one that will gain influence, power and riches within my beloved Kusari! But let's be careful...."
"Very well, Captain Bo, please let us discuss this matter at your discretion." Takata allowed himself to be led away from the alcove and the pair disappeared into the gloom in earnest, muted conversation....
~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ - Yngen - 11-05-2008
Tao was amused. Ever he did hear the stories coming from the Perfect Blossom and hardly believable. Yet here he was searching for an elusive Naval commander. Not at an official office on some battleship, here amongst merchants and criminals.
The relationship between Kusari's state police and her Naval Forces was a mysterious one. Commanded to enforce the Empire's Legal codex, the KSP found their jobs getting ever more complicated. With more and more of the Naval Forces being drawn out of Kusari to the Taus. Yet as Imperial Kusari depended ever more on its police forces there still persisted an archaic bubble around the vaunted Navy, through which one had to perform creatively to enter.
It seemed he was early. Very well, he could wait...and observe some of the greasier clientele...
~ Perfect Blossom Tea Room ~ - LoTeK_ - 04-12-2009
In a private room of the Perfect Blossom, two well known figures were drinking sake together. For the last time.
<< Retirement...my old friend, I heard that word from you so much times that this time my mind wasn't prepared to that.
I'm back. I'm gone. I'm back. I'm dead. I'm not dead, just stunned. Ahh..yes, the DeLuna syndrome get us all I guess. I make no exception. >>
Chijin smiled at Sulu and sipped from his cup of sake.
<< Teichou, I served in the Naval Forces for a long long time, maybe even more than what I'd have planned.
I was also recalled into active service near a year ago when the Colonials sent their ambassador to New Tokyo.
I had the pleasure to assist at the return of the honored Nebotuda, just to see him slowly fading away again.
I looked with my very eyes to the fall of Upper Leeds and the development of our Hiroshima home, proudly.
While it has been all an honour, I now wish for a quiet place where to spend the rest of my days in peace.
I did my best to teach you what I knew, past and future secrets... And I now fully believe in your capabilities
to attend to your duty, which once was mine. >>
<< Hai, I know. That honours me but still I think Kusari will not be the same.
Your wisdom is great just as your jokes and tricks are, and your "natural" intolerance to gaijins...
You made us smile for more than few times. >>
Chijin smiled again before preparing to taking the leave and regarded Sulu for the last time.
<< You will find your way, my old friend, don't be concerned. Let the time have its flow and remember to focus your Chi! >>
<< Hai! Farewell...great one. May the path of the Samurai always enlight your way. >>