[Matoba takes his box of cookies with him, and gestures towards Soma for them to walk and eat together. Despite all the chaos that had occurred a few days ago, it was a lovely spring day. No sense in wasting it.]
Gladly, [Matoba hums, taking a bite into a jam cookie.] It's been some time since I had proper French cuisine. Too often, western cooking is a bit heavy for my liking, but it's good to indulge once in a while, don't you think?
[He nibbles away at his cookie as Soma brings up the recent happenings, glancing towards him as he speaks and then forward again as they walk. The Enma had been making sweeps of Sutoku territory for about a week now... Matoba knew that some of the Lost Souls at the meeting had spoken of attempting to hide some of the kappa away. He wonders how that went.] You're only working under orders, after all. ["Only". Sure.] It's an unfortunate result that we all saw coming. Well, they were foolish enough to get mixed up in something quite underhanded, it seems, but it's a shame the smallfry who don't have any use are getting caught up in it, too.
[As if on cue, he tilts his head towards Soma, humming.] "Interesting", huh? About the machine or the attack?
Yes, it is. [ A slight pause as he pops one of the macaroons into his mouth. ] One can consider it a reward for all the trouble that they've been going through.
[ His head gives a slight bow as he seems apologetic about the orders that he is under. It is best to keep up the friendly air, because he would be quite upset if he loses Matoba as a contact -- even if he plans to hide any wrongdoings of the Enma from him. What a complicated alliance, but aren't they all that way? ]
I agree. It is a shame to drag small fry into this sort of business. It probably would have been better if they gave themselves up right away instead of attempted to hide. [ Another sigh. ] Not that they would have been able to prove their innocence when they were so close to what happened.
[ His eyes shift back towards him. ] Little bit of both, actually. [ Hm, hm. ] Did you know? All the those youkai -- ah, ayakashi -- that I captured ended up saying the same things? They had no idea who the attackers were and they honestly believed the machine was a generator.
[Hiding this or that of inconvenience was only natural; Matoba couldn't hold it against the man to hold anything back from him, just as Matoba would withhold anything that might paint too poor a picture of the Alliance, if he didn't have some useful reason for doing so. Selling out those in control of you was generally not a good idea, when you didn't even have a gameplan.]
[Matoba nods, agreeing that it was pretty pointless for them to fight the warrant, all things considered.] I understand their sense of pride, and I'm certain that they fear they will face blame for something that was way above their heads, but sometimes, playing along is the best option. Even I don't believe the Enma would simply dispose of them all for no good reason. [He's not saying he'd shed tears, but it did seem like a bit much for a bunch of harmless low-rankers.]
Yes, they told us the same. If they're feeding us all a line, they're being very consistent about it.
What do you think, Soma-san? Don't you have a good eye for these things? [He's making a self-deprecating joke. You don't have to humor him.]
It's unfortunate, but sometimes to instill order after chaos, a show of power has to be done. [ His shoulders lift and lower; he speaks from experience, of course. ] Happened a few times in the yakuza, our clan faced a lot of trouble and it took a big of rough-handling to force all the pieces back into place.
[ He breathes in, biting into half a macaroon. ] Equally unfortunate that it falls on the Enma to handle it since it would mean more if it was the your clan itself handling matters. [ With his free hand, he gestures to Matoba. ] But when it's an assassination -- [ His hands open to indicate it really is out of either of their hands; they are just soldiers in this war. ]
Cute. [ Soma adds after the joke. ] But actually, I do have a very good eye for it. Honestly, it's the only thing my superiors ever complimented me on. It's the ability to always be able to tell when someone's lying.
[Matoba nods. He didn't disagree with that assessment at all; honestly, there were many measures he couldn't blame the Enma for, given what he was dealing with- wily and rebellious ayakashi, seeking to take advantage for their own self-interest, in the wake of a widespread disaster. Regardless of who was actually at fault, someone needed to take control.]
[Even if the one at fault was....] If our leader was still capable of handling this, I'm sure things wouldn't have spiraled nearly so out of hand. [He doesn't say 'still alive'. The Sutoku Lost Souls at-large had their own suspicions about just what had happened, that night.] And the Tengu leadership don't seem to have satisfactorily taken matters in hand quickly enough for the Enma. I cannot disagree with that assessment.
[In fact, his words for the Tengu leadership had been quite a bit harsher than that, but.... Again, some discretion was necessary, between other clans.]
[Matoba smiles at Soma's comment. He told you his sense of humor was bad.] ...It's really quite impressive. But, I suppose that means that whoever was responsible for arranging this attack must have either betrayed them, or vanished along with the attackers.
....Kappa clan leadership hasn't been found yet, I'm told. It's most distressing to think that they may have been misled by those clansmen they put their trust into. [Matoba tuts softly.]
With the Enma present, it hopefully with deter other factions from attempting to try to take control of the area. Of course, I understand any hard feelings that might be had in our actions. [ He rests a hand over his chest, bowing slightly. It's an odd pose to say the least with how they are going, but he hopes his sincerity is felt.
Yes, he understands this steps on a lot of feelings and there is an inelegance to everything that is going on. He hopes that this wasn't a plan of the Enma simply because of how sloppy it feels. If it is, he'll have to attempt to ensure the next plans run a little smoothly, of course. ]
Yes, it seems like they were betrayed. They have no idea who they were. And no, they weren't lying about that, either. But that is rather foolish on their parts, either way.
[ Soma tuts with him. ] The motive is what is eluding us. If it was a grab for the area, it was a little too bold a move, don't you think?
Yes. Honestly, I'm somewhat relieved by that. [No he isn't. The Sutoku factions could have swooped in and taken control of it their damn selves. The Enma were only a nuisance in the way, and they all knew it- cleaning up whatever evidence might have been left behind for the Sutoku to investigate.]
[...But, it is what it is, right? It was the expected action for the Department to make. No hard feelings. But it was so obvious.......]
I can't imagine why any faction would want to control some awful-smelling tunnels, unless they had some nefarious intents in mind. My, imagine if instead of simply blowing the sewers, they had poisoned the waterways? There would be a much larger problem on our hands...
[That said, Matoba was pretty sure there was a lot more to look at down there than excrement and trash. From what he'd heard anyway, there was enough room down there for an entire new clan complex. That was reason enough for the clans to want it for themselves. Or the Enma, for that matter...] You don't think the motive was removing the Daitengu themselves?
Goodness, that certainly would be. But ... it would be, pardon the expression, Hell if something like that were to happen.
[ What is happening now is leaving fraught feelings, yes, but not yet crossing the line. So long as the Enma continue to act as they are -- preserving order and ensuring less chaos, then good. If they cross that line, he will have to figure out who did it and see if their deaths can be ensured.
He hums and decides to share this thought with Matoba. It would further his own end goals and also may ensure something like trust with the man. He is giving some intel but it's always nice to bring a substantial thing to the table, as well. ]
I don't believe that it was -- no. If it were, there are many other ways to do, don't you think? The Daitengu is a symbol but no one knows their face. It'd be easier to put a puppet in place rather than kill them in a manner which everyone can see and bring chaos to the area. [ That is what grinds his gears the most. ]
But I will say, if any of the Enma go so far as to poison the waterways or push things too far, I hope you will help me in getting rid of such bad eggs. I don't want my group to have to suffer such fools for too long, as they are the antithesis of what we want to accomplish.
Ahaha, don't worry. I don't think the Enma would ever bend that far. It'd be unbecoming of the place of the King of the Underworld, don't you think? [Matoba fishes into his box for a new cookie, not watching Soma's face.] A demon god whose function is the orderly churning of souls through death and rebirth... What good would it do to sow such fear and chaos through the masses?
[What indeed. Matoba isn't yet entirely convinced the Enma might not be involved at all, but he certainly doesn't think that they would try something so obvious while the only ones in control of the waterways. The question he still wonders, is what would they get out of all this in the first place- besides a first step in trying to retake control of the city from the clans.]
[No.... Not the Enma. And the brutes were likely too proud for something like that. It's the Tamamo, most of all, that he would worry about trying such a tactic, should they make a bid for control. He didn't put it past that beast not to try such a thing, with her drugs and poisons. And although he had many contacts among that clan, he couldn't say that any of them were in a position to stop such a thing. What a predicament....]
I would hope there would be many within the clans who would rise up against such misdeeds. Control over a piece of land or such, that's just business. But poisoning the well? Everyone has a dog in that race.
--Oh. Here I go again, about dogs and cats.... [He munches into a M&M cookie.] I wonder, about that, you know.... A 'puppet leader', huh...? Do you suppose that was really the Daitengu?
I would certainly lose some faith if that were the case. [ He rests his hand over his chest; he can't be as Natori with the acting, but he attempts similar dramatics. It is to hide, of course, his real feelings. He continues to be disappointed over the execution over what it is that they want to accomplish. ]
I believe it may only be us Lost Souls that will rise up if there is any rising to be done. That is the assumption that I have come to when getting a feel for the ebb and flow of this place. [ And he takes a page out of Matoba's book; he pauses to eat another one of his macaroons. ] We are at the bottom rung and so we can't get any lower. But those that are higher have done quite a bit to get that high. I don't think they would want to risk it.
Such is as it is with exorcists and yakuza, the higher-ups do not wish to extend their necks too far. [ A pity, but that is how it is. And he says exorcists as he feels like that lot is very much the same. ]
You do seem to enjoy using animals in your chats, but I don't mind it. [ A hum. ] It might very well not be. And if it isn't, then that means that the Daitengu may have thought that they would be targeted. Perhaps, this is an attempt on the Daitengu's part to try to smoke out those that would stew discontent in their ranks?
You may be right. That seems how it has been so far... [The Sutoku Lost Souls meeting in the middle of the night to discuss how to proceed; the Tengu elders didn't even make an announcement until it was far too late. No one in that room had been satisfied with how things had gone, and still weren't.]
[He's sure the other clans may be in similar positions- but at least they hadn't lost their position on top of that.]
[Soma's comment of comparison draws a long silence from Matoba, and when he speaks again, it's not insulted, but it's cool-toned and precise.]
Hmmmm. Maybe with the old-timers in charge of the middling clans.
I'm different. [And that is something he uses to set himself apart from them, apart from his predecessors: that he would not sit idly by, and let his clan fall into disrepair, as other great clans had. There was too much to be done that could consolidate the Matobas' power even further; sitting idle on their powerbase was never for him.]
[Soma's suggestion matches one of the possibilities Matoba had been tossing around, and he hums in agreement and leans his head.] That was what I had thought at first, but..... The leadership has been quite reluctant to act, so perhaps they are ...aware.
Unless it was on their part. [Hum, hum. Well, that was musing that should probably belong within the clan. Any more detailed than that...] Well, Soma-san. How long do you think it will be, before the Enma consider this investigation through? Surely, we will find answers to our questions, soon enough.
Yes, you are different. I wouldn't share my thoughts with you if you were as they were.
[ Even if the tone is not insulted, Soma feels he should offer some placating remark all the same. He also considers himself different; he is willing to let himself be broken and tossed to the side for the sake of his ideals. His neck is the one that is meant to be extended. No back-up; no assistance; when he dies, he will receive no commendations or praise for his actions nor does he want them.
Everything that he does is because it is necessary. ]
They are rather reluctant to act in any way. But I wonder if it is because they worry if they do too much or too little that they'll be seen as suspicious. It's a delicate dance of how to act and behave. I may have a good feeling of how things flow in this place, but I don't have a good sensations of the culture.
[ Which is mildly irritating when one thinks about it, and he does think about it. It's like being a foreigner in his own land, but he's been through that before. So it's all right. ]
How long? I'd say when they are satisfied. I can't tell you when that will be, however. [ His head bobs; he did just make a comment of not fully understanding the culture even if understanding the order of the world. ] When they are satisfied, we'll see if we will find satisfaction in their answers.
Edited (bleh hate using the same icon twice in a rowwww) 2022-05-08 19:16 (UTC)
[Matoba smiles, finishing off another cookie.] I wouldn't have it any other way.
[After all, it was because they were alike that they could have these wonderful conversations. There was no sense in carrying on this sort of relationship with someone who was not willing to face the risk themselves for their beliefs. A coward who would back out at the slightest danger couldn't be trusted to give good information, nor to squeal at the slightest provocation.]
[It was a known quantity that one of them was going to turn on the other eventually, but... Until then, it was a fun little roulette.]
Hmmm... If I may assume a little, the impression I've received from my brief meetings with them is that they are-- [He pauses, and the corner of his mouth curls whimsically.] ...Well, they are less like the Daitengu, from what we saw of them. [Not an eccentric weirdo like the Daitengu was, like the Lost Souls the clan had picked up. There certainly seemed to be a type to those the clan chose to represent them, and maybe it wasn't all that odd that the figurehead, and those cleaning up under them, were not the same ilk.] I suppose every clan needs its dry, business types, but it is a little boring. I'd rather have had a chat with that Daitengu.
--Ah, the Department, with all their paperwork and rules, sort of has that reputation, don't they? But I don't think you're boring at all, Soma-san, so maybe it's a little funnier that you've ended up lumped in with them.
[It seems that he will not get much of an answer out of him, alas. Matoba mulls that over, sorting the cookies in his box before plucking another out.]
...I wonder, huh... What it is the Enma is looking to be satisfied with... [He says it munching through a cookie, idly.] Underground areas tend to be filled with many surprises.
[ Indeed, that is the most that he can say. He likes the cold effectiveness in the way that the ayakashi conducts himself. It means there is no false expectations that they are seen as anything other than tools for order. There's no sense of camaraderie but a sense of maintaining balance. Soma likes that very much; he dislikes lies and the feeling that "we're all in this together" when some people will forever be in the shadows. ]
Still, it's nice that you have such warm feelings toward the departed Daitengu. I am sorry that you weren't able to have more chats with them.
[ A sincere enough response. ]
An answer. An answer for what happened. [ But whether that answer is satisfactory to anyone else, is the question. Whether that answer is not something manufactured, is another question. ]
Thinking of going down there? It's still a little dangerous or so I've heard.
Warm? Haha. [You're funny, Soma.] I really am curious. It was such an interesting monster... Trying to hide its identity while at the same time retaining a sense of individualism. It seemed like a truly pathetic struggle. I wish I could have seen it some more.
But then, maybe that contributed to its death? Who can say, just yet.
[Honestly, he can understand Soma's appreciation towards the Enma- he wishes that his own leader had been more like that, that they all understood exactly where they stood. Tools, the lot of them- the Daitengu, too, just a mask and a name acting as the glue for the mutual convenience that was their greater alliance.]
I thought of it. But in my current state, it's best if I just let the others do the groundwork. [Matoba glances towards his left arm, still bound in bandages under his kimono.] ...It's unfortunate, but I made a bit of a miscalculation during all that fuss.
--Ah. I did end up attending the fireworks. I hope you won't mind that I went without you, Soma-san, but I couldn't help but satisfy my curiosity. [He smiles] You do understand?
Who could say? Ayakashi are difficult for me to understand, and so I can only give blind observations on the matter.
[ It is his own cheerful take on things. He has no understanding and can only say whatever he likes about it. As soon as he comes to understand the culture of the place, he'll be able to be a little more insightful and helpful in matters. ]
You did do your best. I'm just happy that you weren't killed. [ Losing an informant is always difficult and troublesome. It would be very unfortunate if Matoba were to die. ] Might I ask what you did?
Did you now? [ Hm. ] No, I don't mind that you went without me. I understand that such things are best seen with one's own eyes. [ A smile. ] There's no hard feelings here.
I'm sure every day you're learning a bit more about them, [Matoba says encouragingly.] Histories and detailed bestiaries are useful to know well, but even I cannot say I know of every ayakashi. Surely, in a place like this, I imagine you have even encountered ones I have never seen.
[He's not meaning it to be patronizing.... Truly, this place had quite a few differences from the ayakashi he was used to. Even though they mostly reflect the ayakashi and their desire to reach humanity........ Well, no matter. His point stood.]
[Did Matoba do his best? ...In the moment, yes, he probably did, he decides.] It seems those responsible did not appreciate being interfered with. Too bad; I would have liked to have killed at least one, so that I could inspect their corpse more closely.... But, they had some rather interesting armor.
Ah, and firearms. Have you heard any details about those? I admit I am not the most familiar with such weaponry, but perhaps you'd be able to fill in the gaps. Most guns tend to leave a shell casing, correct?
[ He bows his head slightly, appreciating the forgiving words. But really, Soma takes it as being joining the yakuza -- only it is much more bare bones in terms of what information that he has going in. ]
That they did. [ Certainly, it seemed like they were unable to be damaged. His eyebrows furrow for a moment; he remembers the request that they had been given before. Everyone was supposed to be stripped of weapons before the festival. He shifts his eyes side-to-side; while he understood the importance of it, at the time, he is not liking the implications of what that did.
Hm. ]
I'm afraid I've had my hands full with hunting down the kappa. I'd like to be everywhere at once, but unfortunately, I can only do what is asked of me. [ A slight pause. ] Did you know? Some people were actually trying to smuggle or hide them way? It made life very difficult.
[ And if he had more authority, he would have shot the people in the leg for getting in his way. But no, he remained calm. ]
[Soma accepts Matoba's encouragement fairly well, and he'll call that a victory. One can never know where ego may flare up, especially with these underworld types, and although Soma hardly seems the type to be too prideful there was a thin line between pride for the self and pride for the principle of it.]
[Even Matoba could not let a sleight slide, if it would reflect poorly on what he represented.]
[He notes Soma's furrow and waits to see if he will have something to add about the assailants at the Night Parade, but it seems that if he does, the questioning will not bear fruit yet. No matter; there was always something more, to fill in the gaps another time.]
[Matoba, likewise, will keep his cards in hand for now.] I'm sure. It seems like a very foolish thing to do, [He comments with a smile, adding nothing more. He was aware of it, yes, and did not reveal them. He had no love for the river tribe either way, but it wouldn't be to his advantage to reveal his clan's efforts.]
I hope at least that we will get some answers from them eventually. The Department has been quite efficient, thus far. [Complimentary at face value, at least.]
I suppose they don't understand the gravity of what they're doing.
[ He ducks his head and shrugs his shoulders. There is a lightness to what he's saying, indicating that if he catches them that he'll show some leniency. ]
I've no desire to make enemies. [ At the moment.
He'll make them later when he has enough power and influence to handle them. But anyway-- ] Still, even as I say that, we've both said we're men that are easily hated.
[ Another sheepish shrug. What can they do? ]
Thank you so much for your compliment. I do agree that they have been. [ Not really. There is a lot more that they could do, but that would be spreading out their influence and control; so, yes, they're efficient without being too dogged about their goals. At least, in Soma's opinion. ]
If you ever think about leaving your own clan, perhaps, you can join this one. [ Ha-ha. ]
Perhaps they are driven by emotions... these moral instincts, [Matoba suggests, with implied airquotes.] To protect the weak is a herd instinct that humans indeed carry, but to follow them without any logical consideration is a weakness.
Most living things learn through consequence. I'm sure this will be the same.
[Whether it's by Soma's hand or otherwise.... Matoba was certain the judgment of the Enma would find those who tried to evade it, eventually.]
[Soma's suggestion gets a glance of mild surprise from Matoba (put-on or otherwise); but he chuckles, replacing it with that smile of his to cover whatever it was he might have really thought of that.]
[The first extended hand, huh?] Oh? I'm happy to receive such an offer from an esteemed colleague. I will certainly keep the possibility in mind, but for the time being, the Alliance is really quite and ...interesting organization.
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Gladly, [Matoba hums, taking a bite into a jam cookie.] It's been some time since I had proper French cuisine. Too often, western cooking is a bit heavy for my liking, but it's good to indulge once in a while, don't you think?
[He nibbles away at his cookie as Soma brings up the recent happenings, glancing towards him as he speaks and then forward again as they walk. The Enma had been making sweeps of Sutoku territory for about a week now... Matoba knew that some of the Lost Souls at the meeting had spoken of attempting to hide some of the kappa away. He wonders how that went.] You're only working under orders, after all. ["Only". Sure.] It's an unfortunate result that we all saw coming. Well, they were foolish enough to get mixed up in something quite underhanded, it seems, but it's a shame the smallfry who don't have any use are getting caught up in it, too.
[As if on cue, he tilts his head towards Soma, humming.] "Interesting", huh? About the machine or the attack?
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[ His head gives a slight bow as he seems apologetic about the orders that he is under. It is best to keep up the friendly air, because he would be quite upset if he loses Matoba as a contact -- even if he plans to hide any wrongdoings of the Enma from him. What a complicated alliance, but aren't they all that way? ]
I agree. It is a shame to drag small fry into this sort of business. It probably would have been better if they gave themselves up right away instead of attempted to hide. [ Another sigh. ] Not that they would have been able to prove their innocence when they were so close to what happened.
[ His eyes shift back towards him. ] Little bit of both, actually. [ Hm, hm. ] Did you know? All the those youkai -- ah, ayakashi -- that I captured ended up saying the same things? They had no idea who the attackers were and they honestly believed the machine was a generator.
[ Hmph. ] Don't you find that interesting?
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[Matoba nods, agreeing that it was pretty pointless for them to fight the warrant, all things considered.] I understand their sense of pride, and I'm certain that they fear they will face blame for something that was way above their heads, but sometimes, playing along is the best option. Even I don't believe the Enma would simply dispose of them all for no good reason. [He's not saying he'd shed tears, but it did seem like a bit much for a bunch of harmless low-rankers.]
Yes, they told us the same. If they're feeding us all a line, they're being very consistent about it.
What do you think, Soma-san? Don't you have a good eye for these things? [He's making a self-deprecating joke. You don't have to humor him.]
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[ He breathes in, biting into half a macaroon. ] Equally unfortunate that it falls on the Enma to handle it since it would mean more if it was the your clan itself handling matters. [ With his free hand, he gestures to Matoba. ] But when it's an assassination -- [ His hands open to indicate it really is out of either of their hands; they are just soldiers in this war. ]
Cute. [ Soma adds after the joke. ] But actually, I do have a very good eye for it. Honestly, it's the only thing my superiors ever complimented me on. It's the ability to always be able to tell when someone's lying.
[ A beat. ]
None of them were.
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[Even if the one at fault was....] If our leader was still capable of handling this, I'm sure things wouldn't have spiraled nearly so out of hand. [He doesn't say 'still alive'. The Sutoku Lost Souls at-large had their own suspicions about just what had happened, that night.] And the Tengu leadership don't seem to have satisfactorily taken matters in hand quickly enough for the Enma. I cannot disagree with that assessment.
[In fact, his words for the Tengu leadership had been quite a bit harsher than that, but.... Again, some discretion was necessary, between other clans.]
[Matoba smiles at Soma's comment. He told you his sense of humor was bad.] ...It's really quite impressive. But, I suppose that means that whoever was responsible for arranging this attack must have either betrayed them, or vanished along with the attackers.
....Kappa clan leadership hasn't been found yet, I'm told. It's most distressing to think that they may have been misled by those clansmen they put their trust into. [Matoba tuts softly.]
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Yes, he understands this steps on a lot of feelings and there is an inelegance to everything that is going on. He hopes that this wasn't a plan of the Enma simply because of how sloppy it feels. If it is, he'll have to attempt to ensure the next plans run a little smoothly, of course. ]
Yes, it seems like they were betrayed. They have no idea who they were. And no, they weren't lying about that, either. But that is rather foolish on their parts, either way.
[ Soma tuts with him. ] The motive is what is eluding us. If it was a grab for the area, it was a little too bold a move, don't you think?
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[...But, it is what it is, right? It was the expected action for the Department to make. No hard feelings. But it was so obvious.......]
I can't imagine why any faction would want to control some awful-smelling tunnels, unless they had some nefarious intents in mind. My, imagine if instead of simply blowing the sewers, they had poisoned the waterways? There would be a much larger problem on our hands...
[That said, Matoba was pretty sure there was a lot more to look at down there than excrement and trash. From what he'd heard anyway, there was enough room down there for an entire new clan complex. That was reason enough for the clans to want it for themselves. Or the Enma, for that matter...] You don't think the motive was removing the Daitengu themselves?
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[ What is happening now is leaving fraught feelings, yes, but not yet crossing the line. So long as the Enma continue to act as they are -- preserving order and ensuring less chaos, then good. If they cross that line, he will have to figure out who did it and see if their deaths can be ensured.
He hums and decides to share this thought with Matoba. It would further his own end goals and also may ensure something like trust with the man. He is giving some intel but it's always nice to bring a substantial thing to the table, as well. ]
I don't believe that it was -- no. If it were, there are many other ways to do, don't you think? The Daitengu is a symbol but no one knows their face. It'd be easier to put a puppet in place rather than kill them in a manner which everyone can see and bring chaos to the area. [ That is what grinds his gears the most. ]
But I will say, if any of the Enma go so far as to poison the waterways or push things too far, I hope you will help me in getting rid of such bad eggs. I don't want my group to have to suffer such fools for too long, as they are the antithesis of what we want to accomplish.
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[What indeed. Matoba isn't yet entirely convinced the Enma might not be involved at all, but he certainly doesn't think that they would try something so obvious while the only ones in control of the waterways. The question he still wonders, is what would they get out of all this in the first place- besides a first step in trying to retake control of the city from the clans.]
[No.... Not the Enma. And the brutes were likely too proud for something like that. It's the Tamamo, most of all, that he would worry about trying such a tactic, should they make a bid for control. He didn't put it past that beast not to try such a thing, with her drugs and poisons. And although he had many contacts among that clan, he couldn't say that any of them were in a position to stop such a thing. What a predicament....]
I would hope there would be many within the clans who would rise up against such misdeeds. Control over a piece of land or such, that's just business. But poisoning the well? Everyone has a dog in that race.
--Oh. Here I go again, about dogs and cats.... [He munches into a M&M cookie.] I wonder, about that, you know.... A 'puppet leader', huh...? Do you suppose that was really the Daitengu?
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I believe it may only be us Lost Souls that will rise up if there is any rising to be done. That is the assumption that I have come to when getting a feel for the ebb and flow of this place. [ And he takes a page out of Matoba's book; he pauses to eat another one of his macaroons. ] We are at the bottom rung and so we can't get any lower. But those that are higher have done quite a bit to get that high. I don't think they would want to risk it.
Such is as it is with exorcists and yakuza, the higher-ups do not wish to extend their necks too far. [ A pity, but that is how it is. And he says exorcists as he feels like that lot is very much the same. ]
You do seem to enjoy using animals in your chats, but I don't mind it. [ A hum. ] It might very well not be. And if it isn't, then that means that the Daitengu may have thought that they would be targeted. Perhaps, this is an attempt on the Daitengu's part to try to smoke out those that would stew discontent in their ranks?
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[He's sure the other clans may be in similar positions- but at least they hadn't lost their position on top of that.]
[Soma's comment of comparison draws a long silence from Matoba, and when he speaks again, it's not insulted, but it's cool-toned and precise.]
Hmmmm. Maybe with the old-timers in charge of the middling clans.
I'm different. [And that is something he uses to set himself apart from them, apart from his predecessors: that he would not sit idly by, and let his clan fall into disrepair, as other great clans had. There was too much to be done that could consolidate the Matobas' power even further; sitting idle on their powerbase was never for him.]
[Soma's suggestion matches one of the possibilities Matoba had been tossing around, and he hums in agreement and leans his head.] That was what I had thought at first, but..... The leadership has been quite reluctant to act, so perhaps they are ...aware.
Unless it was on their part. [Hum, hum. Well, that was musing that should probably belong within the clan. Any more detailed than that...] Well, Soma-san. How long do you think it will be, before the Enma consider this investigation through? Surely, we will find answers to our questions, soon enough.
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[ Even if the tone is not insulted, Soma feels he should offer some placating remark all the same. He also considers himself different; he is willing to let himself be broken and tossed to the side for the sake of his ideals. His neck is the one that is meant to be extended. No back-up; no assistance; when he dies, he will receive no commendations or praise for his actions nor does he want them.
Everything that he does is because it is necessary. ]
They are rather reluctant to act in any way. But I wonder if it is because they worry if they do too much or too little that they'll be seen as suspicious. It's a delicate dance of how to act and behave. I may have a good feeling of how things flow in this place, but I don't have a good sensations of the culture.
[ Which is mildly irritating when one thinks about it, and he does think about it. It's like being a foreigner in his own land, but he's been through that before. So it's all right. ]
How long? I'd say when they are satisfied. I can't tell you when that will be, however. [ His head bobs; he did just make a comment of not fully understanding the culture even if understanding the order of the world. ] When they are satisfied, we'll see if we will find satisfaction in their answers.
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[After all, it was because they were alike that they could have these wonderful conversations. There was no sense in carrying on this sort of relationship with someone who was not willing to face the risk themselves for their beliefs. A coward who would back out at the slightest danger couldn't be trusted to give good information, nor to squeal at the slightest provocation.]
[It was a known quantity that one of them was going to turn on the other eventually, but... Until then, it was a fun little roulette.]
Hmmm... If I may assume a little, the impression I've received from my brief meetings with them is that they are-- [He pauses, and the corner of his mouth curls whimsically.] ...Well, they are less like the Daitengu, from what we saw of them. [Not an eccentric weirdo like the Daitengu was, like the Lost Souls the clan had picked up. There certainly seemed to be a type to those the clan chose to represent them, and maybe it wasn't all that odd that the figurehead, and those cleaning up under them, were not the same ilk.] I suppose every clan needs its dry, business types, but it is a little boring. I'd rather have had a chat with that Daitengu.
--Ah, the Department, with all their paperwork and rules, sort of has that reputation, don't they? But I don't think you're boring at all, Soma-san, so maybe it's a little funnier that you've ended up lumped in with them.
[It seems that he will not get much of an answer out of him, alas. Matoba mulls that over, sorting the cookies in his box before plucking another out.]
...I wonder, huh... What it is the Enma is looking to be satisfied with... [He says it munching through a cookie, idly.] Underground areas tend to be filled with many surprises.
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[ Indeed, that is the most that he can say. He likes the cold effectiveness in the way that the ayakashi conducts himself. It means there is no false expectations that they are seen as anything other than tools for order. There's no sense of camaraderie but a sense of maintaining balance. Soma likes that very much; he dislikes lies and the feeling that "we're all in this together" when some people will forever be in the shadows. ]
Still, it's nice that you have such warm feelings toward the departed Daitengu. I am sorry that you weren't able to have more chats with them.
[ A sincere enough response. ]
An answer. An answer for what happened. [ But whether that answer is satisfactory to anyone else, is the question. Whether that answer is not something manufactured, is another question. ]
Thinking of going down there? It's still a little dangerous or so I've heard.
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But then, maybe that contributed to its death? Who can say, just yet.
[Honestly, he can understand Soma's appreciation towards the Enma- he wishes that his own leader had been more like that, that they all understood exactly where they stood. Tools, the lot of them- the Daitengu, too, just a mask and a name acting as the glue for the mutual convenience that was their greater alliance.]
I thought of it. But in my current state, it's best if I just let the others do the groundwork. [Matoba glances towards his left arm, still bound in bandages under his kimono.] ...It's unfortunate, but I made a bit of a miscalculation during all that fuss.
--Ah. I did end up attending the fireworks. I hope you won't mind that I went without you, Soma-san, but I couldn't help but satisfy my curiosity. [He smiles] You do understand?
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[ It is his own cheerful take on things. He has no understanding and can only say whatever he likes about it. As soon as he comes to understand the culture of the place, he'll be able to be a little more insightful and helpful in matters. ]
You did do your best. I'm just happy that you weren't killed. [ Losing an informant is always difficult and troublesome. It would be very unfortunate if Matoba were to die. ] Might I ask what you did?
Did you now? [ Hm. ] No, I don't mind that you went without me. I understand that such things are best seen with one's own eyes. [ A smile. ] There's no hard feelings here.
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[He's not meaning it to be patronizing.... Truly, this place had quite a few differences from the ayakashi he was used to. Even though they mostly reflect the ayakashi and their desire to reach humanity........ Well, no matter. His point stood.]
[Did Matoba do his best? ...In the moment, yes, he probably did, he decides.] It seems those responsible did not appreciate being interfered with. Too bad; I would have liked to have killed at least one, so that I could inspect their corpse more closely.... But, they had some rather interesting armor.
Ah, and firearms. Have you heard any details about those? I admit I am not the most familiar with such weaponry, but perhaps you'd be able to fill in the gaps. Most guns tend to leave a shell casing, correct?
[He'll note that reaction for later.]
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[ He bows his head slightly, appreciating the forgiving words. But really, Soma takes it as being joining the yakuza -- only it is much more bare bones in terms of what information that he has going in. ]
That they did. [ Certainly, it seemed like they were unable to be damaged. His eyebrows furrow for a moment; he remembers the request that they had been given before. Everyone was supposed to be stripped of weapons before the festival. He shifts his eyes side-to-side; while he understood the importance of it, at the time, he is not liking the implications of what that did.
Hm. ]
I'm afraid I've had my hands full with hunting down the kappa. I'd like to be everywhere at once, but unfortunately, I can only do what is asked of me. [ A slight pause. ] Did you know? Some people were actually trying to smuggle or hide them way? It made life very difficult.
[ And if he had more authority, he would have shot the people in the leg for getting in his way. But no, he remained calm. ]
But you're right, they do have shell casings.
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[Even Matoba could not let a sleight slide, if it would reflect poorly on what he represented.]
[He notes Soma's furrow and waits to see if he will have something to add about the assailants at the Night Parade, but it seems that if he does, the questioning will not bear fruit yet. No matter; there was always something more, to fill in the gaps another time.]
[Matoba, likewise, will keep his cards in hand for now.] I'm sure. It seems like a very foolish thing to do, [He comments with a smile, adding nothing more. He was aware of it, yes, and did not reveal them. He had no love for the river tribe either way, but it wouldn't be to his advantage to reveal his clan's efforts.]
I hope at least that we will get some answers from them eventually. The Department has been quite efficient, thus far. [Complimentary at face value, at least.]
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[ He ducks his head and shrugs his shoulders. There is a lightness to what he's saying, indicating that if he catches them that he'll show some leniency. ]
I've no desire to make enemies. [ At the moment.
He'll make them later when he has enough power and influence to handle them. But anyway-- ] Still, even as I say that, we've both said we're men that are easily hated.
[ Another sheepish shrug. What can they do? ]
Thank you so much for your compliment. I do agree that they have been. [ Not really. There is a lot more that they could do, but that would be spreading out their influence and control; so, yes, they're efficient without being too dogged about their goals. At least, in Soma's opinion. ]
If you ever think about leaving your own clan, perhaps, you can join this one. [ Ha-ha. ]
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Most living things learn through consequence. I'm sure this will be the same.
[Whether it's by Soma's hand or otherwise.... Matoba was certain the judgment of the Enma would find those who tried to evade it, eventually.]
[Soma's suggestion gets a glance of mild surprise from Matoba (put-on or otherwise); but he chuckles, replacing it with that smile of his to cover whatever it was he might have really thought of that.]
[The first extended hand, huh?] Oh? I'm happy to receive such an offer from an esteemed colleague. I will certainly keep the possibility in mind, but for the time being, the Alliance is really quite and ...interesting organization.
[It suits him. For now.]