Historical Earth Drama The Yakuza: Territory War

The Yakuza
Territory War
​

Introduction

The year is 1946, the nightmare that was World War II has ended, leaving Japan defeated and humiliated. Soldiers of the war return to their homes, and as some return to Hiroshima, they only return to chaos. In such madness, Yakuza families spring up to claim territory and power, and the city is thrown into a ruthless struggle for power. New members will be drawn into this conflict, willing or unwilling, in a ruthless war of the Yakuza.

Welcome to The Yakuza, a game set in post-war Japan where people struggle in the devastated city of Hiroshima and its outskirts. A war brews in an already demolished city. Yakuza families vie for power and territory in this new ruthless environment.

This game is planned for multiple installments, as the game is intended to span multiple years, starting in post-WW2 and going in to the Korean war.

Characters

In this game, there is a variety of characters for you to choose from. Perhaps a struggling former-soldier who finds themselves falling into trouble with the Yakuza, or a policeman or even American MP in the devastated city. And of course, a Yakuza member themselves. This game has a heavy emphasis on character development and decisions within the plot, and your characters actions could change the fate of the game completely.

The Character Sheet

Name:
Age:
Appearance:
Nationality:
Equipment:
Occupation:
Biography:

Rules

1. Obey the TOS as usual
2. GMs word is law, if you have an issue with anything PM me.
3. Absolutely no godmodding or anything alike
4. This game can work with a small player base or large player base, applications will end when the story moves too far or I see fit.
5. This game (hopefully) will be updated at least once a week, more if possible. If a player does not respond for a while with no reasoning I have the right to take control of the players character.
6. Character death is a very high possibility, but not something I will do excessively. Be wise with your roleplay.
7. Minor NPCs can be created and controlled, but anything beyond is GM territory.
8. Have fun!

 

GM APPROVED


The Character Sheet

Name: Kenshi Ozunu

Age: 20

Appearance:

Nationality: Japanese

Equipment: Kunai Blade, worn out western style clothing

Occupation: Survivalist/ Thief

Biography: Born Kenshi Yamashida, his family had no clear direct relation to the Japanese General, though it often brought them indirect celebrity during the war. Kenshi’s Father was a decorated Zero Pilot who died valiantly during the attack on Pearl Harbor when he was 15. He was left to take care of his ailing mother and unable to continue in his Military Academy training. That all changed after Hiroshima.

Kenshi had been away on that fateful day, traveling far off in order to procure medicine for his mother, when the inconceivable happened. Hiroshima was bombed and left in ruins. Kenshi made his way home against all odds, just to see that nothing remained of the world he once knew. With nothing left to his name, he wandered the streets, stealing food and robbing homes when he could. He never stayed in one place very long. After news of General Yamashida's execution was made known, he took his mother’s maiden name; Ozunu.

Now the local Yakuza were engaged in a struggle of shifting power and territory, one which Kenshi did his best to avoid, but for how long could a poor and destitute thief remain outside their influence?

 

THE YAKUZA
Territory War
---
Prologue
---​

In the open-air black market, ruined Hiroshima
The story begins with Kenshi Ozunu, a thief struggling to survive, and Genta Hamamoto in the heart of the market...

If you had found yourself in the rushing early hours of the open-air black markets of Hiroshima, you would be stranded in a sea of people, all rushing to and fro between the stalls like a school of fish running from their hunter. It was a risk of being pick-pocketed, or if you thought differently, an opportunity. Stalls were being overwhelmed by the throngs of customers, leaving their occupiers distracted. Beyond these bustling markets was a looming wasteland of rubble, partly occupied by makeshift homes and the like. A group of American MPs patrolled the area, with several policemen branching off into the sea of people. All in all, it was a rather chaotic scene.

There was one stall in particular that stood out to a young man known as Kenshi Ozunu, a small-time thief. A large bag sat on a table behind the stalls occupier, and they continually stuffed the money they received into it. It was plump, obviously contained a large sum of money, and was practically unattended if one approached it correctly. That bag was capable of feeding a family at least a month, if not more. The stalls occupier was still distracted by his customers, taking it would be all too easy.

@greyjedi125

Some distance off from Kenshi and the stall, a group of men marched through the market. One of them brought particular attention to most, as he was surrounded by the others in the group, and seemed to lead them.

GENTA HAMAMOTO, future leader of the HAMAMOTO Family


He picked up an item from a stall, pocketed it, and as the stall owner looked up in outrage the group had begun to leave. The owner waved to some men further away, and they began to chase after them. The two groups would bump into a third. A man in this group would shove Genta, the man in the shades.

YOSHI HAGIWARA, Underboss of the HADA Family


Yoshi, standing at 6' 3" would loom over Genta.

"You should watch where you're running punk." he would growl, before looking over to the group chasing them. "Those are Akiyama's boys! Let's get 'em!"

Yoshi would charge at the chasers with some of his friends, and the two would be locked in a brawl, giving Genta and his men a chance to escape. In the chaos, a shot was fired and the place quickly began to clear. A whistle shrieked in the air, and a squad of MPs arrived at the scene. This was the daily chaos of the market.

 

Kenshi Ozunu
Chaos at the Market

Munching on the Nashi fruit he had stealthfully swiped earlier from one of several crates that were being delivered, Kenshi merely observed and studied the flow of the market as he gauged his areas of opportunity. He made sure he was not in sight of the gaijin MP, whom he detested. Kenshi never stole from children or old ladies, as he was not completely without honor, but everyone else was fair game in his eyes.

There were so many people here at the open-air market, pushing and shoving, desperate for produce and products that reminded them of their old lives. He couldn’t blame them really, life was not making much sense or offering better choices.Those who were jobless and destitute had no way of trading or purchasing anything. It was a difficult situation.

However, how could he resist, when so many stalls attacked so many people, all potential ‘donors’ to his cause.

Kenshi took another bite of the fruit as his eyes spied the unattended money bag behind one of the stalls. His eyes went wide momentarily, as he could not believe his ‘luck’. Try as he might, he couldn’t see who the stall belonged to. It was important not to steal from very powerful people, but if you did, it was more important not to get caught. He furtively looked around him, just to make sure no one was looking at him, or the bag. He had to take care, just incase someone else was having a smilier idea.

Quickly finishing his breakfast in a few bites, Kenshi merged with the chaotic crowd, pretending to look for something to buy, even as he moved closer to the targeted stall. Several times he looked to see if anyone else was paying attention. Swiping the bag would be a cinch if no one was looking, but getting it out of the market not necessarily so, which meant he would need hide it inside a crate or basket as soon as possible and then make his get away.

It was a crude plan, but timing was of the essence.

Just as he neared his objective, the sounds of a growing commotion caught his attention. Sparing a glance, Kenshi recognized Genta Hamamoto and Yoshi Hagiwara.

Rival Yakuza Gangs clashing in the marketplace was never good. Never.

Hoping to take advantage of the convenient distraction, Kenshi resolved to press his luck as he reached for the bag.



Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

With the wonderful GM's permission:

Name: Yuriko Takadagi
Age:27
Appearance: tall with pale skin, and long black hair, athletic build, a tattoo of a tiger on her thigh.


Nationality: Japanese
Equipment: Skurikens, Tanto, set of Kantana's, set of tofugu(Sai's), tri-sectional staff, several hidden daggers, healers kit, traveling sandals, cloak
Occupation: (Martial arts master?) Healer
Biography: Her father was of moderate standing, as a Martial arts teacher (Sensei), a master of several styles of Karate. He was well known and had taught many students. His classes had grown smaller in his old age, but he still taught. While Chihoda loved his daughter, at first he was reluctant to teach his daughter some of the more advanced techniques. But having no sons to pass his learning to, and the death of his most prized student at the beginning of the war, he decided to teach her. Their dojo was spared from many of the city's infighting, due to the fact that they were a distance away from the main city of Hiroshima. She took on the secondary task as a healer, which afforded them some extra income, as she dealt with the old ways her father had taught her when students were sometimes injured.

The war soon called all of his students away in service to the Military. The school closed, and he kept teaching his daughter up to the day he died peacefully. She took his body up into the mountains, to be buried on his favorite spot.

The bombs fell the next day.

Once things grew quiet, Yuriko returned back to their home. Her home. The house was ransacked, but still standing. The weapons she had not taken with her, she had hidden while she was away. They were still there. She decided to fix what she could of her home and then set herself up as a healer, not letting anyone know of her training. The dojo she turned into her office. As the infighting within the city became worse, she planted a tiny garden hidden behind some bushes, as she tried to determine what to do in such confusing times. But it seems that people always need a healer.

 

The Black Market, Hiroshima, Prologue.

The market descended into chaos. The two clashing families, the Akiyama's and the Hada's, were both locked in an intense and brutal brawl. Somewhere within this mess, a gun had been brought out and its unmistakable scream had roared out into the market. It only took a few minutes for the Military Police to arrive at the scene of the fight. They dragged the furious Yakuza away from each other. Some tried to make a run for it as they noticed the American MPs while others were cuffed and dragged away.

Kenshi Ozunu had taken this opportunity to swipe a large bag full of money from a nearby stall. He succeeded too, being left seemingly unnoticed as he took the bag and slid away from the stall. Just as he began to think he had gotten away safely, he bumped into a horribly familiar figure. Being in the criminal world one tended to know the top dogs of the game. This one was surrounded by a group of expertly trained Yakuza, as he was one of them himself.

RYUTARO HIMURA, Leader of the HIMURA Family


"Well, well, well." he would sneer. "A petty thief taking the payment from a man who owes me. That doesn't sit well with me." He looks to two of his men, giving each a nod. They step forward and grab him by the arms.

"I want to have a word with this thief." Ryutaro would say, turning around and walking away, with Kenshi being dragged along.

@greyjedi125 (combo?)

Meanwhile, two men would being dragging their comrade throughout the market. They rushed towards an old Dojo, which had been re-purposed into a hospital of sorts. They banged on the door, crying for an answer. They knew the place from their colleagues. A healer known as Yuriko Takadagi lived here, and would often times heal various Yakuza members. This time, the two men needed her to help their comrade, whom had been shot at the brawl within the market. They prayed she would answer and take in the wounded Yakuza.

@Ktala (welcome to the game!)

 

Yuriko Takadagi
In her garden, behind her Dojo

Yuriko sighed softly, as she looked out on her zen garden. Her farther Chihoda had taught her the calming and meditation value of creating such things. In the times of such hardships and destruction, she found even this small patch of rock and dirt was a calming influence over such troubled times.

She was glad her father was not here to see what had come of their beloved home. But at least she had someplace to come to. Many were not that lucky. She poured herself a cup of water, and slowly drank it while looking out at her garden.

Suddenly there was pounding and banging on the door of the dojo, and she could hear voices, crying out 'Healer!' The knocks were sounding desperate, and Yuriko wondered what madness was being brought to her doorstep. Quickly, Yuriko rose to her feet, and quickly made her way through her dojo to reach the front door, 2 daggers hidden upon her person, as always. You never knew what types of people came to your door nowadays.

"Yes, yes, I am here," she called out, as she opened the door. What she saw made her gasp, and then quicky lean out, to see if anyone was in the street, looking their way. The two men were holding up another who was profusely bleeding.

"Step inside quickly!" she told them as she moved out of the way, pointing to a simple mat on the floor. As they moved, she quickly looked at how they were dressed. And importantly, for tattoos. But first, she would heal. She moved over to a tiny cabinet and pulled several small jars from it, and a sachel with some tools. Once the man was put down, she would shoo them away, near a curtain to wait, while she looked to see what his wound was caused by, and just how much damage had been done.

Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var

OOC: thank you.

 

Kenshi Ozunu
Caught!

“Oyabun.”

That was the only word Kenshi managed to stammer upon seeing the Leader of the Himura Family. The young thief visibly paled, but otherwise barely managed to hold himself together. He knew better than to resist Himura’s trained thugs and simply allowed them to grab him. They knew his face. There was nowhere he could run. Besides, he had no desire to get worked-over by these muscled thugs, but knew to expect a lump or two for his trouble.

While being transported, he actively listened to their conversation, trying to figure out who owed the Himura family money, or if he knew them. He could do nothing with his hands, so any tricks involving slight-of-hand was out of the question.

Keeping silent, he tried to think of what he would answer when interrogated, what was likely to get him killed and what was likely to save his skin. No gaijin MP was going to come to his rescue, as many of them were taking bribes from local officials. No, he was alone and would have to get out of this situation on his own.

He decided he would do whatever was necessary to survive, as long as it didn’t compromise what little honor he had left.



Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

Unknown Himura Hideout, Hiroshima, Prologue

The journey towards a tall and shabby ruined building was largely uneventful. Himura's bodyguards stayed quiet for the short walk, and Ryutaro had gone slightly ahead, out of earshot, with another of his guards. The arrival was rough for Kenshi. The guards holding him threw him inside, and waiting there two more grabbed him and dragged him down a level, into a basement were another man was waiting.

"String him up." he would command the two holding him, and they would proceed to chain him to a chair. The man would shake his head, tut-tutting as he lifted a large bat from a table laden with other objects of pain. The two guards finally gag Kenshi with cloth, so he couldn't speak, and leave the room. The man steps towards him, looking down at him with a look of disgust.

"Do you know, that bag you tried to steal was a vital piece in creating an alliance? What you could have caused..." He shakes his head, before moving the bat in a sudden motion towards Kenshi's side, knocking the chair down along with Kenshi.

"I will hurt you first, thief, then you will die." He would hiss, before a voice cries out from behind Kenshi.

"I said I wanted to talk to him, you fool! How will I do that if you beat him into idiocy, hm?"

Ryutaro Himura would walk into Kenshi's line of sight, and look down to him with a grimace on his face.

"What is this, a gag? Seriously? Take this filth off our guest!" He would bark, as a guard ran forward and hastily took the gag off. Ryutaro would snatch the bat from the other man's hand, and beat him down to the ground with it. The man whimpers, and Ryutaro would straighten himself. Letting out a sigh, he looks down at Kenshi, who was still on the floor.

"See? I am calm now... Now tell me..." He would say, picking up the chair Kenshi was on, before getting one for himself and sitting on it. "Before I go any further, what is your name, thief, and where are you from?" The now clear madman would ask.

@greyjedi125

The Takadagi Dojo, Hiroshima, Prologue

As Yuriko hurried them inside, the two men dragged their friend quickly into the dojo, and placed him onto the mat. He was squirming and crying out in pain. The two other men, whose cheap clothes were now splattered with blood, looked to Yuriko for what was next. She would shoo them away to a curtain, and they would quickly scurry off.

The wound, upon inspection, was caused by a bullet wound which had landed on his lower left torso. While this brought quite a bit of attention itself, it would be hard not to notice the plethora of tattoos that dominated the torso. Most noticeably, the large Namakubi, or severed head, in the center of his chest. The wound itself, however, needed to be dealt with quickly, as it seemed that the man had already lost a great deal of blood. His face grew paler and paler by the second, and his pain was obviously rising as his cries grew louder.

@Ktala

 

IC: Kenshi Ozunu
Himura Hideout

Never before had Kenshi experienced this level of terror. He was about to die a death worse than a dog, gaged and beaten to death on a dirty floor, inside a secret hideout, where not even his screams would be heard. A wretched and undignified end to a wretched and undignified existence.

But before the painful and nightmarish end could truly begin, there was a sudden intervention.

Oyabun!

Kenshi’s eyes would bulge in surprise at seeing Ryutaro Himura.

Before he could even consider what was happening, Kenshi would witness how the Yakuza Boss ‘dealt’ with his subordinate. He said nothing to the guards that removed his gag, as they were the same that tied him up in the first place. Thugs, soldiers, obeying orders without a thought.

Kenshi was shaking, his breathing labored as fear and adrenalin coursed through him. He couldn’t let Ryutaro see the depth of his fear, so he chose to burn through it with anger. Anger at the man who was about two kill him like a worthless creature, anger at the gaijin who had brought war and destitution to his home, anger at himself for being weak.

By the time Ryutaro was sitting before of him, Kenshi was feeling a bit more in control, though he was still shaking a bit and his breathing was heavy. That such level of brutality came so easily to a once civilized people, was no less than stupefying.

“Boku wa Ozunu, Kenshi. I was born and raised here in Hiroshima.” He said in answer.

With great effort, Kenshi lifted his eyes, just enough to regard this violent man, that had both literally and technically, just saved his life.



Tag: @@Master Vo'Un'Var

 

Yuriko Takadagi
The Takadagi Dojo, Hiroshima, Prologue

Yuriko quickly inspected the man. It was as she expected, a bullet wound, which had landed on his lower left torso. He was obviously in quite a bit of pain, and his face was pale by the lack of blood. Of course, as she wiped up the blood around the wound, she could not help but see the tattoos that covered the man's torso. Well, at least now she knew who she was dealing with. She quickly pulled off some powders and mixed them in some hot water that she had brewing nearby. She poured the mixture into a bowl. as she tied up her hair and sleeves.

"Here, drink this. This will ease the pain, and help with the blood that you have lost." Yuriko spoke softly as she lifted up his head, to help him drink the mixture. The potion would put the man into a sound sleep. She would need to remove the bullet, and sew the wound close if the man was to have any choice. As she gave him the drink, she spoke to his companions.

"His wound is deep, and he has already lost quite a bit of blood. I have given him something to drink. But the bullet needs to come out." She pointed towards one of them. "You, there is a bowl there, fill it with water quickly and bring it here. And I will see if I can help your friend."

Yuriko's face now became one of intense concentration. She opened a pouch and pulled out a set of long acupuncture needles. While the drugs would help the man, she needed to make sure he felt no pain, and would not move during the procedure. With precision born of practice, she quickly used the needles to both null the pain, and make it so that he would not move about.

Once the water reached her, she threw some more herbs into the water, and sipped her arms in, down to the elbow. Deftly, she laid out the needle and thread she would need. She then grabbed a small scalpel and began to the task of removing the bullet. By this time, the man was unconscious. With small clamps, she held back area, so that she could quickly see where the bullet had lodged herself. She knew once the bullet was removed, she would have to sew quickly. The needles would help in slowing the circulation of blood, but would not completely stop it. As she worked, she spoke to the other men.

"There is another bowl. Clean yourselves up. You did not need the police stopping you, because you look like a crime scene." she spoke matter of factly, as she worked quickly. "If your friend survives, he will need blood. I can not do that. But I have given him something that will help."

Yuriko deftly moved the needles around, as she worked to removed the bullet, and then quickly sew up all the damage that had been done. She stopped to check on his respiration, putting a wet cloth on his head, before she worked meticulously to make sure he had stopped bleeding. She knew she had to be fast. And she knew she would have to bandage him strongly. Usually, such battles meant they would want to move him quickly. Once she was finally done, she leaned back.

"I am finished," she said stoically, as she washed the blood from her hands, and looked over toward his companions.



Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

Unknown Himura Hideout, Hiroshima, Prologue

"Kenshi Ozunu, an honour! I am Himura, Ryutaro, the Oyabun of the Himura family. It seems you already knew that... " he lets out a hearty chuckle, and leans back into his chair.

"Are you a swordsman, Ozunu-kun? Do you live up to your given name? I don't normally meet pickpocket swordsman... But you know what these Gaijin say? A first time for everything... " Ryutaro inquired. The man he'd just beaten made another whimper on the floor, and Ryutaro strikes him again with the bat. Placing it back onto his lap, he takes a deep breath.

"I get annoyed with some of my employees quite easily... Sometimes they just seem so incapable, a great shame. I've been looking for someone capable to execute a very important task for me, and then what do you know, a sneaky thief appears to help! I think of it like I am a great Shogun, and you are my ninja, sneaking to do something for me..." Ryutaro stands, now beginning to pace around Kenshi. He shakes his head, sighing.

"Here is my problem though, Ozunu-kun... You tried to steal from me! I want to let you live so I can take you in, but I feel you should pay a price... Fair enough, hm?" He would say, sitting back down in his chair.

"What kind of leader would I be if I were too merciful, eh?" He would ask, tilting his head at Kenshi.

@greyjedi125

The Takadagi Dojo, Hiroshima, Prologue

The two companions of the injured man had their eyes glued to the procedure the entire time. It was like a time where one sees a particular gruesome incident and wants to look away, but finds themselves staring either way. The two were impressed by Yuriko, to say the least. After the bombs fell, Yakuza members had slowly begun to hear about this place. A place where one could receive healing without the risk of arrest. At least, less of a risk than most hospitals.

One of them went to fetch a bowl of water quickly, as she had commanded. They were obviously keen to help their 'friend'. Their reactions the surgical procedures were almost non-existent, as they had been so clearly attuned to intense violence, through crime and the war.

They went to another bowl and began to clean themselves up, their eyes now leaving Yuriko. She used this time well, and when the two returned she had already begun to bandage the third man up. Then, finally, she was done. She turned to the other two, whom still had blood splattered on their shirts, and announced this information. They nodded slowly.

"Thank you..." One of them would say, stepping forward. " But... I must say we cannot move him away from this place, as you likely expect us to do... They will have already gone to his home." He looks down to the third man, shaking his head sadly. This is Yuta Akiyama... A good man... We must hide him, for he is in danger... I must ask of you to help us, please!" The man would say, falling to the ground and bowing his head low before her in a way of request and humility.

@Ktala

 

IC: Kenshi Ozunu
Himura Hideout

Was this fate? Kenshi wondered as he listened to Himura-sama. It appeared they both had an equal dislike for gaijin. Still, the young thief couldn’t help but wince when Ryutaro struck his subordinate once again with the bat. He did to ignore that and kept listening, hardening himself in the process.

The Oyabun was right. As a leader, he couldn’t show weakness, but was able to arrive at a fair trade, instead of simply punishing him for stealing and leaving him for dead. Of course, his ‘would-be’ interrogator was almost guaranteed to become his nemesis. But what choice did he have on the matter?

“Himura-sama…” Kenshi began, respectfully. “I studied at the Ryushin School from young and also trained at the Military Academy for sometime. I am versed in taijutsu, kenpo and bojutsu.” Here, he fought-off thoughts of his dead parents and focused only on how the war had destroyed all that he held dear. How he needed to survive. Nothing else.

“Your terms are fair, Oyabun. I accept your offer.” He said without wavering.

After a small pause, Kenshi hardened his expression further and forced himself to speak again.

“What price must I pay and what would you have me do?”

If Ryutaro imagined himself a Shogun, then Kenshi would fashion himself as a Ninja. Their aim was the same after all. Survival.



Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

Yuriko Takadagi
The Takadagi Dojo, Hiroshima, Prologue

As Yuriko finished bandaging the man and cleaning her tools to put them away till next they were needed, one of the men moved forward. "Thank you..." a pause," But... I must say we cannot move him away from this place, as you likely expect us to do... They will have already gone to his
home." Yuriko nodded slowly as she listened.

He looks down at the third man, shaking his head sadly. "This is Yuta Akiyama... A good man... We must hide him, for he is in danger... I must ask of you to help us, please!" The man would say, falling to the ground and bowing his head low before her in a way of request and humility.

Yuriko looked down at the man she had patched back together. Though Yuriko tried to steer clear of the politics of the streets, she was not totally unaware. She recognized the name. Having someone who could possibly be of help, in the rising tides was no small thing. Also, she realized after such a lengthy surgery, and loss of blood, he could not have been moved anyway. And causing his death would not be looked upon well. She gently placed her hand on the shoulder of the one who had bowed. When he looked up, she smiled. "He could not be moved this early anyway. But if you wish me to assist you, then I require something of you."

Yuriko looked over looking at some items in the corner before she turned and spoke again. "Since they are actively looking for him, I will guess they will come here. They know you would not want to take him to a hospital. But they do not know how badly he is hurt." Yuri stood up with one graceful move. She looked back down at the man, silently judging before she spoke her next words carefully.

"I will hide him, and tend to his wounds. But I want two things. One, a way for me to know who is a friend, so that if another comes looking for him, I will know. And two, for you to carry out that large bundle with you. I will dress it, so someone will believe that you are carrying someone away. It will buy me some time, to properly hide him, in case someone comes looking."

Yuriko looked at both men. "Do you agree?"

She waited for their response.




Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

Unknown Himura Hideout, Hiroshima, Prologue

"Good!" Ryutaro would say, before jumping to his feet and kicking his chair away. "Untie him."

Ryutaro's thugs would return once again, slicing the ropes binding Kenshi with a sharp knife. Once finished, they would hand the knife to Ryutaro.

"Have you heard of Yubitsume, Ozunu-kun?" Ryutaro would ask, running his finger across the sharp of the knife. "We yakuza have used it for quite a few years now. Somewhat famous as our symbol, you could say. Many can tell you for what you are by a simple glance to the hand." Ryutaro smiles, before staring Kenshi in the eye with a very serious look.

"I need you to hold one of your hands out for me, Ozunu-kun." He would mutter to him as his thugs brought out a chopping board and mat. Once placed he would motion for Kenshi to take his place. "And then I want you to place that hand on the board, then perform the Yubitsume." He would instruct, flipping the knife round so Kenshi could take it.

"Then, we can move on."

@greyjedi125

The Takadagi Dojo, Hiroshima, Prologue

"Do you accept?"

The two would look to each other for a moment, then turn back to Yuriko.

"Very well... We will accept." Says the first, before standing back up from his pleading stance. "We have a word to know who is who. It is koi, like the fish. Ask them for this and that is how you tell who is who. But... There are not many of us, so visits would be infrequent." He turns to the bundle, and looks back.

"We will take this too." he says, before a noise from Akiyama would be heard.

"Take... Take the bundle to the sea... Dump it there. We will play the Hada's game of trickery." He would mumble, waving a feeble hand to his men. "We must work with haste... If we are to win."

"Thank you." He would say to Yuriko, tilting his head towards her. "We will be sure to honour our agreement."

@Ktala

 

Yuriko Takadagi
The Takadagi Dojo, Hiroshima

the two men looked at each other, and then quickly agreed to her terms. They gave her a name that would identify them, and then he turns to the bundle and looks back.

"We will take this too," he says, before a noise from Akiyama would be heard. Yuriko turned as did the two men to look at the man.

"Take... Take the bundle to the sea... Dump it there. We will play the Hada's game of trickery." He would mumble, waving a feeble hand to his men. "We must work with haste... If we are to win."

Yuriko maintained a stoic face as she heard the name Hada being mentioned. Of course. But no matter, she would honor the word she had given.

"Thank you." He would say to Yuriko, tilting his head towards her. "We will be sure to honor our agreement." Yuriko dropped down to the floor, and as the man had done before her earlier, she gave him a bow of respect. She then quickly stood, and dressed the bundle quickly. She quickly stuffed a few heavy rocks into it and then handed it to the men.

"Now go. I will tend to him." She opened up a side door. "Follow the fence down to the junction. A left will take you to a street that runs parallel to the main entrance." She offered a slight nod. Once the men were gone, she quickly locked her side door, and her front door, throwing the bolt over the door. With no words, she quickly moved deftly going over to a wall closet. She opened it, and then slid the mat where some shoes lay, and pushed back a section of the floor. She went down, disappearing for a moment, and then came back up, with what looks like a small sled or gurney. She moved it next to Akiyama. "Akiyama-sama." Yuriko bowed, speaking respectfully. "While I am sure normally, you would move, I must insist that you allow me to do so. With you losing so much blood, I do not wish to have you pop any stitching. And if things happen, I wish you to be strong enough to handle them, so I will insist that you stay still for now at least.

Yuriko waits to make sure he will comply, before she carefully rolls him onto the sled, and then quickly takes him down to the level that was dug under her home. Her father had used it from time to time when they had students. And when war came, he had extended it. The room was self-sustaining, and it had lighting, two comfortable beds, a small table. She quickly moved to get him comfortable, and then she nodded. "I will bring you something to eat and drink soon. But I must clean upstairs before someone comes looking. Try to get some rest."

With a bow, she quickly left and returned upstairs, covering up the doorway, and replacing it as before. And once closed the closet door, she began to move quickly, making sure to remove any traces of blood, any clothing, and anything else that might have gotten left behind. She rolled up the mat she had used earlier replacing it with a new one. She took the old one and went into the back yard, and burned it, along with anything else she had found. She burnt incense, and on her alter, she lit a small white candle. Something she usually did when a patient died. She changed her own clothing, putting her other clothes into the laundry. She then untied her hair and sat down to take a breath. There were quite a few things she would need to get done, and she was sure that someone, either one of the other clans, or the MP would be paying a visit to her. So she would make sure to give Akiyama some more pain medicine in his tea so that he would be quiet, in case anyone came to call. But he would have to scream loudly to be heard.

After a last once over, she began to prepare the next meal.

Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var
OOC: Forgive me if I used the title wrong.

 

GM APPROVED

Name: Hideki “Hide” Fujikawa
Age: 29
Appearance:


Nationality: Japanese
Equipment: Stevens m520 shotgun
Colt model 1903 pistol
Smith and Wesson revolver
Occupation: Gangster
Biography: Hide was once a farmer’s boy. Simplistic. Idealistic. Peaceful. Before the war. He enlisted because duty. Honor. Serving the emperor. These were the highest and most respectful things a man could bring his family. And hideki brought it. Served proudly. Even when the actions he was asked to do would be considered war crimes. Even when the actions he was not asked to do would be considered war crimes. It changed him and made him ruthless. Violence. As natural to him now as breathing. As necessary to. Because there is no honorable job for the disgraced. His family disowned him. And if they hadn’t, it would make no difference.

Hide is a gangster now. Hired muscle and gun. And his work is good. He works with the Akiyama family. For Akiyama was the friend that did not turn his back on him when came back in disgrace. He gave Hide a second chance at...something. He is part of the Akiyama family. A new chance for honor? No, at this point just jobs, but maybe being part of building something is all that keeps him from tying a cinderblock to his own ankles and falling into the ocean. It is just Hide and his chow chow, Murabashi, now.

 

Kenshi Ozunu
Himura Hideout

Kenshi had involuntarily sighed in relief when he’d been loosened from his bindings, for they wee beginning to cut-off his circulation at the wrists. Once freed, he at once he got up to his feet and gave Ryutaro a curt bow, then suddenly froze in place.

“Yubitsume…” He echoed in a chilling whisper.

Adrenaline immediately started coursing through his body once again, even as he realized what was being asked of him. His ears listened to Ryutaro, but the man sounded as if he were underwater. His eyes regarded the chopping block as it was brought before him. The glint of the knife Ryutaro offered spurred his imagination.

He was being asked to cut-off part of a finger, as a demonstration of sincere apology and good faith, due to his failed theft. No matter how his mind worked it out, there seemed to be no other choice. For a brief second his mind was shadowed by an even darker thought. He could take the blade and slice Ryutaro’s throat.

No. Oyabun would be ready for that. Even if he succeeded, he would not be free. He could not escape. The Himura Family would have him killed on sight, or worse.

Yubitsume was his only option.

Sweat beads began to form on Kenshi’s brow, but he took several calming breaths and steeled himself for what he had to do. This one act would mark him for Life. There would be no going back after this.

“Yes, Oyabun.” Kenshi finally said as calmly as he could and offered a solid nod.

In that moment, he resolved to go through with the act, and focused his will so his body would perform what which otherwise he would not.

Methodically, he placed his left hand on the chopping block, then reached his hand and took the offered blade. Kenshi emptied himself of everything, just like he would at the dojo and focused on defeating his enemy. Fear and Hesitation.

Young Ozunu placed his finger upon the block and looked down. This was no longer his had. It was Oyabun’s: The Shogun.

With ritual respect, he placed the blade so the edge would be at the joint of his little finger. He ignored the sweat that now dropped from his brow and turned to look directly at Ryutaro.

The moment their eyes met, Kenshi brought down the blade with martial precision for a clean cut.

His face blanched, his eyes bulged and his mouth opened, but thankfully, no sound escaped him. The sharp pain had been sudden, even though he expected it, but his training prepared him to take it. His body began to tremble against his will, yet still, he forced himself to bow and speak.

“Arigato, Himura-sama.”

Kenshi lowered his gaze and looked to the floor, where drops of his own blood began to collect and pool together. In that moment, deep inside him, something fundamental died, giving place to a terrible seed, birthed by the shedding of blood and the severing of sinew and bone.

War still had many more victims to claim.



Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

And so Kenshi Ozunu had found himself working for the legendary Ryutaro Himura. Taking young Ozunu into the Himura family, his initiation occurred shortly after Kenshi's Yubitsume. Now that Kenshi had been truly inducted into the Yakuza, it was time for his first mission. This would decide who he was, what his symbols would be, and if Ryutaro had made the right decision in saving him.
Yuriko Takadagi had managed to save Yuta Akiyama from his injuries, leaving him in debt to her. She has been promised protection and to know who is who in the Akiyama family. But for someone hiding an important Yakuza boss, how long could she go unnoticed?
Hideki Fujikawa, a long time friend of Yuta Akiyama, had heard of his new boss and long time friend's injuries, and visited him in secret. Akiyama gave him instructions to go to Kure and try and strike out a deal with a powerful Yakuza family. And so both Kenshi Ozunu and Hideki Fujikawa found themselves being sent to the city of Kure, while danger awaited Yuriko Takadagi in Hiroshima...

---
CHAPTER ONE
Deal or No Deal
---
​

Part One

​

One Month Later...
The Akai Ryu Club, Kure, Hiroshima Prefecture

The bright red and orange lights plastered all over the entrance of the Akai Ryu Club beamed magnificently through the nightlife of Kure. It was this flashy and painfully obvious night club that Kenshi Ozunu and Hideki Fujikawa had found themselves entering. While hard to believe, the interior of the club was even more ferocious then the dazzling exterior lights. Crimson red lanterns dangled from the ceiling, illuminating the circular hall, with round tables dotting the blood red carpets, and deliciously red table cloths were spread flat under several different games. A roulette table was in full throng, with American gajiin and their company for the night laughing and roaring as they enjoyed themselves with such a familiar game from home. There were also multiple tables with sessions of mahjong in swing, with money being thrown into the center of the tables as their bids rose higher and higher. Not all tables were dominated by gambling, as some were filled with jolly customers with alcohol in hand. One of these tables hosted a group of sharply dressed men. Yakuza. This was were Kenshi Ozunu placed. Along with him were two other Himura members. Hideyoshi Takeda, who had been sent to watch over Kenshi was a well-known elder of the clan.



Beside him sat Katsuo Nakamura, an underboss of the Himura, whom sat coolly with a cigarette in hand and lighter in the others.



Both were relaxed, and had both brought female company. They waited for their guest, whom had been sent by Akiyama. Hideyoshi leaned over to Kenshi, raising his voice so he could be heard over the roar of the people and the intense jazz music.

"I am glad you made it safely, Kenshi. I hope your hand is better now." he would yell, taking a pack of cigarettes from his jacket and offering one to Kenshi.

"These are American, good quality. They call them Pall Mall. One of the benefits of our work, Kenshi." he would shout with a grin, as he lit his own and took a draw. "All we must wait for is our contact. In fact..." he would stop, looking over the crowd. "...I think that's him!" he would exclaim, waving over the crowd to the new arrival.

Hideki Fujikawa had arrived with the full intention of negotiating some sort of trade agreement, or optimally an alliance, with the Himura family. As were his instructions from Yuta Akiyama. The Hada family was under the impression that his boss was dead, after a bundle was dumped into the sea after the now famous shooting in the black markets in the ruined Hiroshima. As he looked around the bustling club, he noticed a somewhat elderly and well-dressed man wave him over through the noise. That must be his contact, his table was occupied by two other well-dressed men and two remarkably pretty women. He had heard of how boastful the Himura could be, and now he saw for himself how they flaunted their wealth. If he were to approach them, the man who'd waved him over would quickly greet him.

"You must be Hideki? We heard you were coming. I am Hideyoshi Takeda, an honour and pleasure." he would roar over the din, standing and giving a bow. The other man beside him would give a nod to him, and remain seated.

"This is Katsuo Nakamura, and that fine young man is Kenshi Ozunu! Please, sit sit, we have much to discuss." Hideyoshi would motion for him to take his place in an empty seat. The night was still young, and this deal was imperative for the survival of the Akiyama family, and could guarantee entrance for the Himura family into southern Hiroshima.

@greyjedi125 @The Jedi in the Pumas

 

Kenshi Ozunu
The Akai Ryu Club, Kure

For all the noise, the hustle, the bustle, the glamour and the glitz the Akai Ryu Club had to offer, Kenshi seemed rather disinterested. He focused on remaining alert during his first outing with these two very important people. Both Takeda and Nakamura were Top V.I.Ps from the Himura Clan; he wasn’t about to do something stupid in their presence. Still, the last time Kenshi had visited Kure, it had been with his father, but that had been long before the war, when he'd been very young. He hardly remembered the occasion, and the place was not recognizable to him now.

Through it all, Kenshi remained impassive. Many of the ‘hostesses’ complimented him on how sharp he looked, with his new tailored charcoal-grey suit jacket and pants. His black leather boots were also eye-catching, but not more than his black gloved left hand. “Kuroi Te”, Black Hand, was a nickname some began calling him. Still, pretty as the ‘hostesses’ were, he very much preferred traditional girls who were shy, humble and pure. Except, he probably was no longer worthy of one.

Though no one could see, Kenshi carried a kunai hidden inside each boot and a Tanto blade inside his jacket. Firearms were simply too loud and unreliable in his opinion.

Kenshi nodded politely where necessary as conversations continued around him.

“Thank you, Takeda-sama.” He said in response to the older man’s well wishes, but he politely declined the cigarette offer. He did, however, accept a glass of liquor. He found the burning drink to be somehow, relaxing. “I am actually feeling much better.” He said. Then, as if offering proof, Kenshi splayed his fingers and flexed his gloved hand.

He gave a sly smile for effect.

Thoughts of their mission returned to him. As he brooded silently, Kenshi furtively observed the hands of those at his table as well as other attendees. Was he the only one with nine fingers? If so, that would be a most curious thing.

It didn’t take too long for their ‘guest’ to appear. Hideki Fujikawa. One look was all one needed to perceive the man’s level of confidence. Takeda-sama was diplomatic enough to make introductions. When his turn came, Kenshi stood and simply nodded in greeting, then sat when bid to do so.

Just before the meeting began, Kenshi made sure to take a good look at their surroundings. He carefully looked for tells for anyone who might be too interested in their table or ‘pretending’ not to be. It didn’t matter whether they were male, female, japanese or gaijin.

The club might be neutral ground for Yakuza and gaijin alike, but there were always those who looked for opportunities to ‘tip’ the balance. Two Himura V.I.Ps under one roof? Too tempting to pass. Maybe. Needless to say, he trusted no one. That was the only way he’d stayed alive.

Even now.



Tag: @The Jedi in the Pumas, @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

Hideki Fugikawa
The Akai Ryu Club, Kure

The red lights made Hideki feel like he was walking into a room full of devils.

The afterlife.

Smoke thick in the air, Americans gambling, and the parading of young women around. The lavishness was so otherworldly from what he had been used to in the war. A year removed and he couldn't shake the feeling that he shouldn't have made it. This post war world was for someone else and he was living here on borrowed time. Dressed in a black school uniform, with white undershirt, the jacket open in non-tradtional fashion, Hideki made his way through the club. His eyes was groggy and his hair unkempt, and yet he could still be described as a fairly attractive young man. But an elder's nightmare. His colt pistol was tucked in his the small of his back, under his waistband. It scratched him a bit when he went to his pockets to feel for his lighter and cheap cigarette.

Cheap, or affordable. It didn't matter. They all tasted horrible.

Smoking was a habit that he had picked up through sheer peer pressure. Not from his fellow soldiers, but from the Americans. You kill a couple and search their bodies, they always had a pack on them. He had amassed a huge number of bloody cigarettes by the end of the war. His medals.

Sighing as he lit one, he searched the room with lazy eyes until he saw an older man waving his arms to get his attention. He approached with a fake thin smile and nodded during the wry introductions.

"Ah yes, Takeda-san, Nakamura-san. The pleasure is mine." He disregarded the younger one, verbally, but nodded his head in his direction. He knew who he would be making the decisions. He cared little for diplomacy. He didn't think he was particularly good at it, but Akiyama trusted him to come here and extend an olive branch. So, he would play good boy, because that is what Akiyama needed.

"So, gentlemen....how can we help you and get a good hand in return?"

Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var @greyjedi125

 

Yuriko Takadagi
The Takadagi Dojo, Hiroshima

Yuriko found herself quite busy for the next couple of weeks. She continued her regular routine, saw patients as normal, and completed her shopping runs and picking up needed medicinal herbs and medicines. But on her way home, she always changed her route, and would sometimes take longer. But once she was home, she moved quickly, checking her place thoroughly to make sure no one had been there. She would then prepare everything she needed for Akiyama-sama healing, and tended swiftly to his wounds, and made sure he had enough medicines and food before she left once more. And Yuriko was glad when the man was finally well enough to leave. She made sure to burn any evidence of him ever being there. Now, life could return to normal. It seemed that his companions had done their job well since even had heard the whispers during her shopping that one of the bosses had died. The man was smart.

Now. Yuriko enjoyed the calm. She was finally able to practice her other skills, now that there were none who might walk upon her unawares. Yuri moved swiftly in her home, her doors locked, and windows latched, as she practiced with her swords. An old skill, especially now when so many preferred the gun. But stealth and skill were still useful things. So much so nowadays. A proud city, torn apart, with Americans and their military police force trying to maintain some type of order, while people whose places had been destroyed scrounged the area often fueled her stream of people who came to see her. With a focus, Yuriko finished her katas and put away her tools for later use. As with any doctor, one must always keep their tools sharp, and ready for use.



Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

Part Two

The Takadagi Dojo, Hiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture

Night had fallen, and all was quiet except from the occasional noise of the suffering city. The Takadagi Dojo was dimly lit by a few gas lamps and candles. Whatever Yuriko was up to at this specific time, she would be interrupted by a loud knocking on the front door of the Dojo. The knocking was not particularly unusual, as this place acted as a healing center, yet there was still an uneasy feeling in the air. It did not sound as if the knock was urgent, nor did it sound peaceful enough to be non-threatening. It was just three slow and loud knocks. Rain started to trickle down, and the faint pitter-patter could be heard as the water droplets bounced onto the roof.

Upon opening the door, Yuriko would find two figures standing there. One she did not recognize, and he was dressed in a trench coat and hat, and the other was a very familiar figure. It was one of the men whom had brought Akiyama round. The one who had begged for him to stay. His face said much about how he felt. Terrified. The other whispered something at him and Akiyama's man, named Yuri, nodded.

"K-koi." He would say, shivering, and the other man nodded slowly, bowing to Yuriko.

"Hello. I am Sasori Akiyama. I am Yuta's cousin. May we enter?" He would ask, straightening himself and looking back to Yuriko.

@Ktala

 

Yuriko Takadagi
The Takadagi Dojo, Hiroshima

Night had fallen, and all was quiet except the occasional noise of a wounded land. It had been a lovely evening, and now she was enjoying the chance to read, no one had needed her services today. It was one of the few days of peace. As she adjusted her lamps she heard a knock of the door.

She looked over towards her shuttered windows and frowned. Those who knew her, would not come to her place at night to visit. It was not wise to travel at such a time. But the knock did not sound very urgent either, which would be the only reason for someone to visit her this time of evening. Yuriko slipped her sword under her robes, as she moved towards the door. The sounds of rain lightly danced upon her roof.

Yuriko opened the door, while swiftly placing one foot behind the door as a stop, as she opened the door. Yuriko would find two figures standing there. One she did not recognize, and he was dressed in a trench coat and hat, and the other was a very familiar figure. It was one of the men who had brought Akiyama round. And his face held the look of one in terror. The other whispered something at him and Akiyama's man, named Yuri, nodded.

"K-koi." He would say, shivering, and the other man nodded slowly, bowing to Yuriko. Yuriko knew what this was. Poor Yuri had been caught. But why come here? Unless someone was looking to see if Yuta has died or not?

"Hello. I am Sasori Akiyama. I am Yuta's cousin. May we enter?" He would ask, straightening himself and looking back to Yuriko.

"No."

Yuriko's face was stoic, even as she respectfully returned the bow with a slight nod of her head. "Koi? I believe you are mistaken. I don't deal in fish. And I do not allow visitors at this time of night, I don't care who." Yuriki looked from the poor man who was terrified, and then back to the man who stated he was a cousin. "While that family name is not unknown to me Akiyama-sama, there is no business that I can help you with, unless you are in need of a medicinal poultice, or perhaps a mid-wife?" She frowned. "I do not know your cousin. So why come to my door?" she asked the man, watching his movements. She would not be surprised if the man had others with him as well.

Yuriko steadied herself for most likely an unwelcomed response to her refusal to let them in.


Tag: @Master Vo'Un'Var

 

The Takadagi Dojo, Hiroshima, Hiroshima Prefecture

Sasori shakes his head. Sighing, he rests his hand on Yuri's back. There was something awfully familiar about this man. Whether he was Yuta's cousin or not was up for debate, and likely false, there was an aura about him that brought back memories from before. Before the war.

"Here is my problem, Takadagi-san." Sasori murmurs. He knew Yuriko's name. It was likely that Yuri had told him, or perhaps he knew it from somewhere else. "I have a gun pointed towards Yuri at this very moment. I would hate to pull the trigger and leave a great mess here. It would not end well for either of us, don't you think?" he offers her a steely smile. Every single one of his gleaming white teeth would reveal themselves to her. His forced smile would then quickly disappear.

"Takadagi-san. I will ask you once more. Would you mind inviting us inside your home?" he asks, as the rain beat down and pooled into the brim of his hat. Yuri's shivering continued. Not from the cold, but from his stinking fear. "I very much do not want to pull this trigger."

The rain's strength grew. The faint pitter-patter now turned into a more violent and ferocious beating onto the roof. The night was sure to be a long one.

@Ktala

The Akai Ryu Club, Kure, Hiroshima Prefecture

Although Takeda himself had been welcoming enough and showed good hospitality, there was still an uneasy feeling in the air. Could it be the Gajiin at their roulette tables? The Yakuza-owned club had many police on their payroll, allowing them to be more flexible with their gambling rules, but the sight of the foreign MPs still left a mark on a humiliated country. Or perhaps it was simply that no one could trust each other in the world of a Yakuza. Takeda stood quickly and filled a glass of liquor for Hideki and refilled Kenshi's while at it.

"Well." he sighed, sitting back down and taking his glass in his hand. "I suppose there is no point beating around the bush." Taking a sip from his glass, Takeda continued.

"So, we all know of your very clear problem. The Hada hold a strong grip over the southern ruins of the city. It doesn't seem much now, but the Hada now quite well that it will soon be restored to a hub of activity. It seems Akiyama knows this too, and so he got the idea to start a family of his own. He takes some land, and of course the Hada become furious. So, that is where we come in." Takeda says, clearing his throat slightly. Nakamura would then continue for him.

"We want an in into your area of Hiroshima city, Fugikawa-san. Two options are presented to the Akiyama family. One, the Akiyama family are absorbed into the Himura family, we move in and quickly secure the land you all already claimed. This would be quick, and you would all be guaranteed much more safety then you already hold. If I am not mistaken, Yuta Akiyama, your boss, was shot? We heard reports his body was dumped into the sea, but no further evidence has come to back this claim up. The Hada believe he is dead, and it is only a matter of time until they attack the rest of Akiyama family. That is the first option for you." Nakamura would say, before lifting his glass and taking a long sip.

"Your second option," he would continue setting his glass down, "would be to guarantee us a portion of the land you eventually claim, and we supply the Akiyama family with the locations of some American weapons, along with the location of several underbosses of the Hada clan, eradicating them would cripple many of the Hada's operations. Ozunu-kun here would take you to the location of the weapons and assist you in securing them." he would finish, looking over to Kenshi briefly, the information being new to him as well. He turns back to Hideki.

"Well, what is your decision?"

@greyjedi125 @The Jedi in the Pumas