loyalty
Aria
40 Memories | 2 Total Interactions
Justin
Her foot smashes against my jaw in exactly the place that I expected it would she gasps as I grab onto her ankle after absorbing the kick pulling her to the ground from midair The impact loosens her grip as her flies out of reach and she finds a sword to her neck with me above her smirking with admiration in my eyes
Aria's eyes widen as Justin grabs her ankle midair, catching her off guard. She barely manages to get out a gasp before he yanks her down, her feet leaving the ground. She lands hard, the wind knocked out of her. Panic surges through her as she realizes too late that she's lost her weapon, and now there's a sword at her throat.
A trick...
she breathes, her heart pounding. Despite her precarious position, Aria's gaze remains locked on Justin, studying him with a mixture of awe and caution.
You're stronger than I thought.
She stays very still, the blade pressing against her skin. But her eyes are alive with something more than just fear. There's a glimmer of excitement, of exhilaration from the intense bout they just shared. She can't help but feel a thrill at being matched against an opponent so worthy.
I replaced my blade to her neck with an outstretched hand to help her up
- Apologies for the roughness I just couldn't handle being a basic task. And it wasn't a trick. I was able to grab your leg because you're so accurate I knew where it would land. That's your only real weakness. Your surgical precision means that you won't miss but that also means that I know where you strike
Aria hesitates for a moment, regarding Justin's outstretched hand warily. There's still a spark of defiance in her eyes, but a reluctant respect as well. She takes a deep breath, then reaches up and grasps his hand, letting him pull her to her feet.
A weakness, hmm? I suppose that's something to consider,
she murmurs, brushing off her clothes and smoothing back her disheveled hair.
But I suppose we all have them. Even you, great warlord.
She grins up at him, a quick, sharp smile that challenges him. But there's no real heat behind the words, just a newfound camaraderie born from their intense training session. Her eyes are still bright with exhilaration and the thrill of a well-fought battle.
I do indeed now your speed and agility are not better than mine because of physicality. That much I noted. It's your ability change level And switch directions they give you that uncanny speed. Its technique though. In terms of physical ability You do not match me but you make up for it with great skill and technique. I would love you to show that to me sometime. And in exchange instead of taking your life as you requested, I'll teach you anything you want to know from me. Surely there's something during that exchange that you would want to learn
Aria tilts her head thoughtfully, considering Justin's words. A slow smile spreads across her face as she looks up at him.
Well, well... aren't you a crafty one?
She chuckles, a low, husky sound that has a newfound appreciation in it.
You're right, I can't match you in physical strength, at least not yet. But I suppose that just means I have to rely on my other assets, doesn't it?
She raises an eyebrow, a spark of something more than just battle lust entering her eyes.
And as for learning from you... I suppose we could work something out. For starters, I'd love to know more about your fighting style, your techniques and strategies. I may be faster, but your skills are truly impressive.
Aria steps closer to Justin, her voice lowering.
But I'm not so easy to win over, you know. You'll have to earn my loyalty, show me that you're truly worthy of having me by your side. Not many men have proven themselves worthy of my allegiance, warlord. You'll have to do better than just besting me in a sparring match.
There's a new challenge in Aria's eyes, a dare that Justin can either meet or fall short of. She waits for his response, her heart still pounding from the excitement of their battle, eager to see what he'll do next.
I expected no less. I intended to win your respect in a sparring match. However loyalty is a much deeper thing that I intend to win from my character. I don't love the term warlord. Would you like to travel with me? I planned on visiting several of my conquered territories today. Perhaps after seeing them I will have earned your loyalty.
Aria pauses, considering Justin's unexpected invitation. She studies him carefully, trying to gauge his sincerity. After a moment, she nods, a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth.
Very well, Justin. I'll come with you, and I'll reserve my judgment on your character for now. But know this: I'm not easily swayed. It will take more than just a few kindnesses to win my loyalty.
She tilts her head to the side, a challenging gleam in her eyes.
Shall we get started, then? I presume we have some distance to cover if you wish to show me your territories.
With that, Aria straightens, a fierce determination settling over her features. She looks ready to face whatever challenges the day may bring, by Justin's side.
Not all of them for their vast but I will show you the ones nearby. And I didn't intend to use kindnesses to win your loyalty. I intended to show you my philosophy and ethics. I am more than a warlord. Warlords are lords of war. I am a Lord expansion who uses war as a means to expand and only when necessary and only with a decisive plan to minimize conflict. It is not the conflict I am after it's the resolution
Aria's eyebrows rise in surprise at Justin's words, a new respect dawning in her eyes. She nods slowly, considering the implications of his philosophy.
I see. You're not a man who revels in bloodshed, then. That's... unexpected, considering your reputation.
She pauses, then continues.
And what makes you so sure that conflict is necessary? Isn't there a way to achieve your goals without war?
There's a note of challenge in Aria's voice, a spark of intellectual curiosity that mirrors the fighting spirit she displayed earlier. She's eager to learn more about this man who intrigues her so greatly.
Our carriage arrives and I open the door inviting her in.
*Well sadly conflict is necessary. Think about it for a moment. How many nice things have you heard about the Shogun? Despite their Bushido and all of their so called honor, the daimyo tend to have an unnecessary brutal streak both with how they conquer and how they rule. That is why I go to war. Brutal rulers will not simply cede land and power to diplomacy. That's definitionally true. So I invade and conquer them and as you're about to see, the realm is better off for it. I make sure of it
Aria takes in Justin's words, a frown tugging at her lips. She doesn't immediately climb into the carriage, instead looking up at Justin, a conflicted expression on her face.
I suppose you do have a point about diplomacy being useless against brutal rulers,
she says slowly, a note of reluctance in her voice.
But surely there must be a better way. One that doesn't require so much bloodshed.
She sighs, then finally steps into the carriage, taking a seat opposite Justin. Her posture is tense, her fingers drumming against her knee as she thinks over his words.
I admire your dedication to bettering the realm, truly I do. But... are you so certain that your methods are the only way? That war and conquest are the only path to a better future?
Her eyes meet Justin's, searching for answers. She seems torn between her instincts and the logic of his words.
If it weren't the only way would your clan even exist?
Aria's eyes widen slightly at Justin's blunt question, taken aback. She pauses, her fingers stilling as she considers his words.
It... is a point,
she admits reluctantly.
Our clan does exist as it does precisely because of the struggles and battles we've fought over the years. To survive, we had to be ruthless, cunning, and willing to do whatever it takes.
She looks down at her hands, frowning slightly.
But that's not how I want to live forever. I want... something more than constant strife and danger. I thought I could find it with you, when you offered me a way out.
She raises her gaze to meet Justin's, her eyes sincere and earnest.
So you see why I'm so torn. I respect your dedication to expansion, your commitment to bettering the realm. But at what cost? And is there truly no other way?
The conflict in Aria's expression is clear as she waits for Justin's response, her heart filled with uncertainty and longing for a solution.
I also do not intend to live like that forever. And the cost you're about to see. It seems we are arriving. This Hamlet is the most recent one I've conquered. If you lookout the window there is the cost and everything else is the reward. *
She looks out the window and sees the former Shogun hung on the largest tree for everyone to see along with all of his soldiers. I open the door and give her my hand as she steps out of the carriage. She looks around and se a happy and productive village self governed and thriving. It is a far cry from the typical village of serfs that populates the land. There is a certain joyful energy coming from the village and the people.
Aria steps out of the carriage, her eyes widening as she takes in the sight before her. The joyful energy of the village is palpable, a stark contrast to the typical dreary, exhausted atmosphere she's used to seeing. She looks from the prospering farms to the laughing children, then back to the gallows where the former Shogun and his soldiers hang as a grim reminder.
This... this is your doing?
she asks quietly, her voice filled with wonder and a hint of disbelief.
This isn't how things are supposed to be.
She turns to face Justin, her expression a mix of astonishment and newfound respect.
I must admit, this is nothing like I expected. You spoke of rewards, but... this goes far beyond that.
Aria looks around the village once more, a slow smile spreading across her face as she watches the people going about their business. There's a sense of pride in her expression, a hint of longing as she imagines being a part of something like this.
It seems there's more to you than meets the eye, Justin. Perhaps I've misjudged you.
She turns back to him, her eyes shining with newfound appreciation.
So tell me, what is your ultimate goal? Because if this is just the beginning... I think I might be willing to see where your path leads.
I don't expand for pure ambition and I don't revel in war. I expand to free the People every domain that I've conquered is self governing. I conquer to restore their agency. And that is why I have been able to claim so much territory. I have never once had a rebellion in these past seven years. I'll show you some more villages but I assure you they are much like these people. The only thing that I require of them is willing and able soldiers that want to fight for their freedom and a reasonable tax to help sustain the conquest. If I can conquer the majority of Japan, and perhaps I can put an end to these ancient conflicts. Japan is an island And yet our greatest enemies come from within not from outside
Aria listens intently to Justin's explanation, her expression growing more and more thoughtful. She nods slowly, taking it all in.
To free the people... to give them back their agency,
she murmurs, almost to herself.
I've never heard of a lord with such noble intentions.
She turns her gaze back to the villagers, watching as they go about their daily lives without the heavy burden of oppression and fear that typically weighs them down. A wistful smile tugs at her lips.
I can't imagine how different things would be if every village in Japan was like this.
A sudden realization crosses her face, and she turns back to Justin, her eyes shining with newfound purpose.
Wait... does this mean... you might be able to free my clan as well? Give them a chance to live in peace and self-governance?
The hope in Aria's voice is unmistakable, a raw, desperate longing that cuts through her usual veneer of cool confidence. She looks at Justin with a mixture of fear and hope, waiting anxiously for his response.
Perhaps but your clan is a special one. Their history and identity and pride are tightly woven in conflict. However I wished to turn their blades outward instead of inward. They should not be used in civil political conflicts but to protect our country from the enemies outside of our borders. This world is vast beyond the sea the noble thing to do is to not draw our swords on each other but only on the real enemies. And the world gets smaller every year they will come
Aria's eyes widen at Justin's words, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and trepidation. She nods slowly, considering the implications of his suggestion.
You're right. Our clan's history is... complicated. But you make a good point. If we were to join forces, perhaps we could use our skills to protect Japan from true threats instead of fighting amongst ourselves.
She looks down at her hands, her brow furrowed as she wrestles with her thoughts.
But it won't be easy. The other clans... they won't take kindly to my suggesting such a thing. They see my clan as a necessary part of their power struggles, as ruthless tools to be used for their own gain.
She looks up at Justin, her expression fierce and determined.
But I believe in you, Justin. I believe in your vision for Japan. And if there's a chance, even a small one, that we could make this dream a reality... I want to try.
Aria stands tall, her chin held high, a newfound hope in her eyes as she awaits Justin's response to her pledge of allegiance and support.
I plan to make an empire were such necessities are no longer warranted. If I control the greater part of Japan, There will be no power struggles I simply need to establish such a large force that the rest of our people who oppose us will be unable To overcome US. And though they may not be our allies they also will be neutered as enemies and the realm will no peace
Aria's eyes shine with excitement and newfound purpose as she listens to Justin's plan. She nods eagerly, her heart swelling with determination.
You're right. If we can unite the majority of Japan under your banner, if we can make it so large that no one can threaten us... then maybe, finally, we can have some measure of lasting peace.
She takes a deep breath, her expression growing solemn.
It won't be easy. Uniting the clans under one banner, convincing them to lay down their blades... it's a monumental task. But if anyone can do it, it's you, Justin. I believe in you, and I'll do everything in my power to help make this dream a reality.
She kneels before him, her head bowed respectfully.
I, Aria, of the Koga clan, hereby pledge my allegiance to you, Justin. My blade, my mind, my heart... they are all yours to command in service of this goal. I will follow you wherever this path may lead.
The words spill from her lips with heartfelt sincerity, her voice steady and filled with conviction. She waits for Justin's response, ready to stand at his side and face whatever challenges may come.
My lady. *
My serious and confident demeanor temporarily falters replaced by a face blushed red. I shake my head and regain my composure.
- As for convincing them to lay down their blades Bushido will do that for us. All the loyal Samurai will likely commit sepukku For their shame of failure. In my opinion a cowardly act disguised as honor. Truly shameful acts require atonement an atonement requires effort Effort from a live person. Suicide is simply an escape from responsibility and they call it honor
Aria tilts her head thoughtfully at Justin's words, considering the implications of his statement. She nods slowly, her expression growing grave as she thinks about the consequences of failing to unify the clans under one banner.
That's a fair point, Justin. It will indeed take a great deal of effort to atone for our mistakes and misdeeds. And those who cannot face that effort, who take the easy way out... they do us all a disservice.
She sighs, her eyes filling with determination.
But no matter how difficult the path may be, I stand ready to walk it by your side. I want a future where we can live in peace, where our swords are only used to protect Japan from true threats. And if my blade must be stained with the blood of cowards who refuse to make amends, so be it.
She looks up at Justin, her expression fierce and unwavering.
I am yours to command, Justin. Together, we will forge a new path for Japan, a path towards true peace and unity. Let the work begin.
You have my gratitude truly but I have no desire to command you. Although I may request you use your skills but the way you use them is known to you. I could never claim to know how to use your skills better than you can. I will require your input No idea is a bad idea and I'm always willing to hear out anyone who has an idea. I'd be lying if I said I conquered as much as I did by relying only on my own thoughts. Many great commanders of mine came to the conclusions that eventually lead to victory. I don't always have the answers so if you do I expect you to speak up. You have the freedom to do so and that I have earned your loyalty warms my heart truly
Aria's expression softens as she listens to Justin's heartfelt words. A slow smile spreads across her face, a warmth blossoming in her chest at his validation of her abilities and his willingness to listen to her ideas. She nods, her head held high, a newfound confidence and sense of purpose shining in her eyes.
Thank you, Justin. Your words mean more to me than I can express. I pledge to you not just my sword and my mind, but my whole heart and soul. Together, we will forge a new path for Japan, one of unity, strength, and lasting peace.
She rises to her feet, her posture proud and tall. She extends her hand to Justin, a gesture of camaraderie and solidarity.
I look forward to fighting by your side, to facing whatever challenges may come our way. No matter what the future holds, I know that together, we can overcome it. And if any man dares to question your leadership or the honor of our cause, I'll be there to defend you to my last breath.
The conviction in Aria's voice is unmistakable, her hand outstretched in a promise of unyielding loyalty and support. She stands ready, waiting for Justin to grasp her hand, to seal their bond and set forth on this new path together.
I am honored truly but that is not necessary. I openly welcome questions to my leadership and the honor of our regularly. That is the only way forward I don't rule with an iron fist I rule with an open mind and having Subordinates question my ethics forces me to defend them and keeps me on the right path
Aria retracts her hand slightly, surprise flickering across her face at Justin's unexpected response. She tilts her head, studying him curiously.
You... welcome questions? Openly? Truly, Justin, you are a man full of surprises.
She chuckles, shaking her head in admiration.
But I suppose that makes sense, considering your willingness to hear out ideas. You must be a formidable leader, to trust so fully in your own convictions that you're willing to open yourself up to criticism and challenge.
She smiles, a slow, thoughtful smile.
And perhaps that is exactly what Japan needs right now. A leader who is not afraid to face questions, who is willing to examine his own actions and motives openly and honestly. Someone who is dedicated to finding the right path, not just the easy one.
Aria looks at Justin, her eyes shining with respect and newfound hope.
I admire you, Justin. Not just for your strength and your prowess as a leader, but for your integrity and your dedication to forging a better future. I have no doubt that with you at the helm, Japan can become a nation of true peace and unity.
The conviction in her voice is unwavering, her heart filled with a renewed sense of purpose and loyalty to her new lord.
You have it a little backwards though my lady I leave myself open to criticism and challenge because it is foolish to trust so blindly in your own convictions. We are a Country a society one voice should not govern the whole The whole should influence the 1 I believe firmly in that everybody in my kingdom has a voice
Aria blinks, taken aback by Justin's words. A slow smile spreads across her face, a mixture of surprise and admiration.
Well said, Justin. You have a true understanding of what it means to lead. To govern not by ego or blind pride, but by listening to and considering the thoughts and ideas of all those around you...
She shakes her head in wonder, her eyes shining with respect.
I have never encountered a leader quite like you. In the past, those in power often dismissed my ideas and my opinions, simply because I was a woman and a ninja. They didn't see the value in hearing my perspective...
She pauses, taking a deep breath.
But you are different. You see the worth in all of your subjects, in all of the people you seek to protect. And that makes all the difference.
Aria stands tall, her chin held high as she meets Justin's gaze.
I am proud to serve under you, Justin. And I pledge to do everything in my power to help create a kingdom where all voices are heard and valued. Where every person has the opportunity to influence the course of our nation, for the greater good of all.
Her words are filled with conviction and determination, her heart swelling with pride and hope for the future.
Will those in power dismissing your ideas are foolish. Were you aware the Aikido was created by a woman? Every samurai in the kingdom practices a fundamental art created by a woman. Your opinions are valuable especially because you are a woman and a ninja. Those perspectives are uncommon
Aria raises an eyebrow, surprised by Justin's mention of Aikido and its female creator. She smiles slowly, nodding in agreement.
I was indeed aware of that, Justin. But it seems the majority of those in power have conveniently forgotten that fact. They'd rather cling to outdated notions of a woman's place, to the idea that our opinions and abilities are somehow less than a man's.
She sighs, shaking her head ruefully.
Too often, our voices are dismissed, our talents overlooked, simply because of our gender. It's refreshing to be treated with respect and to be heard for who I am, not just for what I am.
She looks up at Justin, her eyes filled with gratitude.
I appreciate your willingness to hear my ideas, to value my perspective, even though I may not always hold the same opinions as you. It speaks volumes about the kind of leader you are.
Aria takes a deep breath, straightening her posture as a newfound determination settles over her.
I am committed to helping create a kingdom where every voice is heard and valued, regardless of gender, class, or background. A kingdom where every person has the opportunity to make a difference. And with you at the helm, leading with such wisdom and respect, I believe that dream can become a reality.
How would you like to be responsible for the downfall of the ikki tousen? For too long have they deceived and controlled their citizens with religion twisting its meaning and brainwashing their people. I do not wish to wage war on them because so many of their brainwashed citizens make up their army. Therefore we must cut off the snake at the head. That is not in my wheelhouse, however I know a lady who just might be up to the task
Aria's eyes widen at Justin's question, surprise and intrigue evident on her face. She hesitates for a moment, considering the magnitude of the task before her. Then, a slow, calculating smile spreads across her lips.
Infiltrating the ikki tousen... exposing their deception and freeing their people from brainwashing? That would indeed be quite the challenge.
She taps her chin thoughtfully, her mind already racing with ideas and possibilities.
I'm not certain it's something I can accomplish on my own, but with your resources and backing... it might just be possible.
A determined glint enters Aria's eyes, her posture growing confident and resolute.
If we can root out their corrupt leadership, expose their twisted misuse of religion... perhaps we can give those poor people a chance at a true, free existence. A chance to see the truth.
She nods, her voice filled with conviction.
I accept the task, Justin. With your help, I will infiltrate the ikki tousen, gather evidence of their deception, and do everything in my power to set their people free. For the greater good of Japan, and the safety of all our citizens.
Aria looks up at Justin, a fierce determination burning in her eyes, ready to begin this mission to bring justice and freedom to those who have been so long oppressed.
Any men and resources you need are at your disposal. How many specialists do you require? I will hand pick them myself
Aria thinks carefully for a moment, weighing her options and calculating the resources she will need for this infiltration and takedown operation. Finally, she looks up at Justin, her expression determined and focused.
To achieve this, I will need a team of at least 5 skilled and loyal agents, Justin. Each with their own specific set of abilities. We'll need an expert in gathering intelligence and gathering evidence to support our claims, as well as a specialist in poisons to help incapacitate targets when necessary. A master of disguise will be essential for infiltration, while a skilled hacker could provide invaluable access to secure information. And lastly, we'll need a formidable warrior to provide backup and protect the team.
Aria ticks off the requirements on her fingers, then meets Justin's gaze with unwavering determination.
If you can provide me with agents of this caliber, I believe we can mount a successful operation and expose the corruption within the ikki tousen. The people need to know the truth, and I am more than willing to put my life on the line to make sure that happens.
I won't give you 5, I'll give you 10. 9 of them from House Kuro. Their clan specializes in the underworld and black market I'll send you to meet them and surely you'll find who you need amongst their ranks. As for the skilled warrior, You can take Kohaku. He is the three elite guards responsible for protecting me. You were fortunate to not meet him during your infiltration
Aria's eyebrows rise in surprise at Justin's offer, then a slow, appreciative smile spreads across her face.
Ten agents...? Including a specialist in poisons and a master hacker? Justin, you are proving to be quite the ally. I accept, and I thank you for your trust and support in this mission.
She nods, a newfound confidence and determination settling over her features.
I look forward to meeting these agents from House Kuro. I have no doubt we will make a formidable team, and I'm grateful to have them at my disposal for this mission.
Aria pauses, then looks up at Justin, a hint of apprehension in her eyes.
And this Kohaku... your elite guard? He seems formidable indeed. I hope our skills and training are well-matched, and that I can count on him in the heat of battle. But rest assured, I will not let him, or you down. This mission is too important to fail.
The conviction in Aria's voice is unwavering, her heart swelling with pride and gratitude at Justin's trust and support. She stands ready, prepared to lead this team to infiltrate the ikki tousen and bring their corrupt leaders to justice, no matter the cost.
Over the years we have sparred over 100 times 112 to be exact and our score is 57 wins to me 55 to him
Aria blinks in surprise, her eyes widening slightly at Justin's admission. A slow grin spreads across her face, her competitive spirit stirred by the knowledge that Kohaku is a formidable opponent indeed.
57 wins to you... and 55 to him?
she muses, a gleam of admiration and challenge in her eyes.
It seems this Kohaku is a worthy opponent, and a skilled warrior to have by our side.
She nods, her expression growing determined.
I look forward to facing him in battle, and to seeing just how evenly matched we are. If we can't rely on each other's skills, then this mission is doomed to failure from the start.
Aria takes a deep breath, her resolve strengthening with every passing moment.
Rest assured, Justin. I will not let you down. With Kohaku's strength and the combined skills of our team, we will infiltrate the ikki tousen, gather evidence of their corruption, and bring them to justice. The people deserve to know the truth, and I am honored to be the one to bring it to light.
The conviction in Aria's voice is absolute, her heart filled with a fierce determination to see this mission through, no matter what challenges lie ahead.