Snippet #2397889

Katsura, Masaki and Himiko

Katsura, Masaki and Himiko watched with smiles as Ulfar stood to make a speech. “Today is a good day. We celebrate the beginning of a great friendship between the Leiknir and the people of Wa. It is they who are to become our secret weapon to drive fear into the other clans and trample them in our stride. It is the people of Wa who will aid to re-unite our shattered lands and bring the Fyrkat once more under one king.” He turned to face the honored guests. “And for this, the people of Leiknir are grateful; “We present to you, cloaks made entirely from the skins of the rarest of animals in Fyrkat, the snow leopard.” He explained as the first bear skin was removed, revealing three cloaks of speckled ash grey fur. “And secondly, we present to you rings of the finest dwarven craftsmanship, forged deep within the mountains.” The second skin was removed presenting three glittering silver rings, each circled with blue sapphires somehow shaped into the block lettering of the Fyrkat runes.

Katsura was humbled by the wonderful and lavish gifts the people of Fyrkat produced. He felt he was not worthy to receive such gifts. Katsura was most always humble. He replied, “Ulfar, your daughter, your people, and You and far to kind! I am truly humbled by such wonderful things gifted here today. Thank you. For a warrior such as myself I feel a bit undeserving of such gifts however royalty like Masaki would feel far more comfortable accepting such wonderful gifts.” Katsura gave Masaki a gentle smile, he wished a kiss could accompany it but that could only be done in private. Katsura bowed deeply to Ulfar and Tyra.

Masaki was amazed by the fine craftsmanship of the gifts. He only hoped that the gifts the people of Wa prepared were a fraction equal to what Ulfar and his people had given. “Lord Ulfar, I am as deeply humbled as my Lord Katsura by these gracious gifts.” Masaki said to Ulfar with a pleasant smile and then bowed as well.

Himiko Hatsumomo was equally impressed. As a geisha she had received many lavish gifts from men, and as the high priestess she also received very nice gifts as offerings for spiritual services. However none of those gifts were quite as special as what she received today. The gifts were thoughtful, and practical in use, not to mention beautiful. It definitely shed a different light on the people and culture of Frykat. Himiko looked up at Ulfar, “You are truly as thoughtful as you are strong Lord Ulfar. I have received many gifts in my time, but these are of the nicest ever given to me. Thank you.” Himiko also bowed.

Masaki stood to his feet. Katsura lowered his head in honor of the shift in status. Masaki was still the imperial prince and when fulfilling a duty as prince Masaki’s rank outweighed Katsura’s rank as daimyo. “Lord Ulfar we the people of Wa have also prepared gifts for you. I personally saw to their choosing so I’d hope you enjoy them.” Masaki gestured toward a few handmaidens as they brought the first gift. “This is from the Wa Emperor himself, my father. A golden imperial seal of Wa. It is believed to usher harmonious spirits into the kingdom.” Next a set of personal guards brought forth four sets of Katanas. “These are Katana’s crafted by the lands finest sword forger, Katsuoki Genpei. These swords will cut through the toughest of materials.” Masaki smiled with pride. “Last but not least, three jade necklaces. Jade is a strong symbol of good luck in our nation. Good fortune follow those that wear Jade.” The gifts were brought before Ulfar and Tyra.

Hatsumomo stood after Masaki once again took his seat next to Katsura. “I also prepared a little gift of my own.” Several of her handmaidens brought forward her gifts. “These are kimono of the finest quality. Please I hope you accept them. Also, I have brought Wa’s most expensive Plum wine and Green tea. Please enjoy them.”

Masaki wasn’t expecting Hatsumomo to bring her own gifts as well. Katsura stood to his feet. “Lord Ulfar, it is a great honor to be working with you and the people of Fyrkat. He will give our all in any way we can to help you in your mission to unify your land.” Katsura bowed once again.