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Fandom 鬱憤𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 ― characters

鬱憤𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
Created at
Index progress
Incomplete

a vaguely-historical danganronpa rp.

poi

permanent iishanten
Roleplay Type(s)





16.16

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basics
NAME Otsukimi Ensou
ALIAS(ES) The High Priestess

GENDER Female
OCCUPATION Usaginomiya Shrine Kannushi



in-depth
PERSONALITY
On her face exists a modest smile that never seems to waver, and around her is a distinct air of sophistication and poise. With that, the dialogue that falls from her mouth carries an antiquated vernacular that many would consider verbose or “wordy in the way so-called important people tend to be”; an indication, yet not solid proof of her learned intellect and manners. Having only lived for around two decades, it’d be easy to say she is rather archaic for her age.

In contrast to her delicate disposition, however, there’s a certain liveliness to her… "humble" antics. One could say its a noteworthy confidence; yet on the other hand, it could easily be interpreted as gentle arrogance. Here, the subtle, fleeting feeling that, despite her eternal smile, coupled with the way her tone of voice is never quite too harsh, she may not truly view those around her as her equals―but how accurate can that really be…?

DESCRIPTION
Say… tell me, do you know? Do you truly know what makes a God?

It is a well-known thought across the world; where royalty stands, divinity lurks. Such a concept was nothing foreign during the Usaginomiya reign, where many believed that the bloodline had descended from gods.

As such, there exists a particular shrine within the kingdom’s parameter. Though not quite royal, those born under the name “Otsukimi” are said to have distant relations with the Usaginomiya bloodline; it is because of this that it is an Otsukimi individual’s fate and sole devotion to care for these sacred grounds, from the moment they are able. Why this is the case is unbeknownst to many, though questioning it often leads to nothing.

Renown for her gentle manner and skillful elegance, it came as no surprise when young Ensou was declared the head of the shrine. Her tasks would no longer be confined to those of ritualistic performances―now, she too would be a notable social and political figure within the noble sphere. Magnificent, is it not?

Those respectful greetings she garnered each and every time she’d step foot within the palace; the star-filled gazes of awestruck youths. To be an image of something ideal was not an experience that was bestowed upon the masses, but rather, a select worthy few. It didn’t seem to matter that she was a bit… vain―at least, not until that fateful discussion.

INVESTIGATION
It isn't an uncommon thing for Ensou to be within the palace town, nor be within the King's proximity. It is unclear as to why she would commit the murder, but she would have had ample opportunities to do so; especially since she was one of the last few who saw him before his passing.

physical
WEIGHT 54 kg
HEIGHT 162 cm
BLOOD AB positive

HAIR Dark brown
EYES Scarlet red
MISC Seems to somewhat resemble a rabbit.



EXTRA
LIKES extravagant things ― watching the sunset ― being in sacred places
DISLIKES green peppers ― the excessive heat that comes with summer

ADDITIONAL INFO
❖ Looks a bit more like a princess than a priestess, but then again, no one said modesty was her best quality...

❖ Her skill in keeping herself composed seems to be near-unrivaled. Where do these nerves of steel come from?
 
basics
NAME Rokumonsen Tanyao
ALIAS(ES) tbd >_>

GENDER Male
OCCUPATION "Something of an Undertaker"



in-depth
PERSONALITY
Much to the potential dismay of those around him, Tanyao’s behavior can partially be described as listless theatrics. Simultaneously dramatic and languid, his cries and exclamations tend to get expressed in ways that make it difficult to gauge just how expressive his expressiveness is supposed to be; especially when followed up with little expression at all. A tragedy has befallen us...! But what of this is the tragedy, he’ll wonder?

His words are perpetually soaked in a melodic tone, smooth and pleasant to the ears. This, paired with his ambiguous manner of speech, enables a subtle, ethereal air to hang over him, intertwined with the dark and murky imprint of his background. While he is far from being one to bite his tongue, somehow, he remains enigmatic. Perhaps he is a person who is meticulous with his guard; they’ll only see what he wants them to see, after all.

DESCRIPTION
Forever bare the weight of your fiendish fangs and wretched talons, they said; commit a great sin, and it will show. Perhaps not in you, but rather, the future generations to come.

The Rokumonsen family is a notorious one. To many, they are rigid, yet indecent. Shrouded by a dark secrecy of which could only mean they are up to no good, every step they take along this Earth’s soil casts a shadow; yet another, and another, befitting of a dreary clan whose perceived life’s purpose revolves around the dead. Resting souls may rest no longer―but everyone knows what happens next.

As a full-blooded member of such a clan, Tanyao undoubtedly shoulders a questionable reputation. Many of his physical features make quick work for those who wish to identify him, most notably the iris of his eye. Vibrant hues indicative of his supposed ability to see things beyond the physical world are often the most striking of his visage; yet despite their deceptively holy nature, they only serve to identify their owner as something wicked.

Such is the misfortune cast upon the Rokumonsen name. One musn’t get too close to the impure…

… Which is precisely why Tanyao’s presence in the Usaginomiya Palace was, for the most part, unprecedented. With each and every stride he took, his serene smile would not falter, not even as paranoid eyes trailed his form for any sense of peril. And in his presence, the King seemed to not mind―curious, thought Tanyao―for he must have had a reason for requesting his visit. Perhaps it had something to do with the previous Queen, the King’s mother, passing away mere days prior.

INVESTIGATION
It's a well-known fact that those who work closely with the dead carry with them perpetual kegare, and as such, belong to an "untouchable" social caste of their own. With this, alongside the notoriety of his family specifically, it would come as no surprise if he were to be responsible for the King's death. They did come into contact with one another, too...

physical
WEIGHT 86 kg
HEIGHT 185 cm
BLOOD B Negative

HAIR Blonde, for the most part
EYES Prismatic
MISC Has an obvious birthmark on the crown of his head, and his teeth/nails seem to be a bit sharper than normal.


EXTRA
LIKES the occult ― jogging on cool, dewy mornings ― a wide variety of desserts
DISLIKES large crowds ― not having his tessen with him

ADDITIONAL INFO
❖ Is never seen without his golden tessen (war fan). How someone like him managed to get such an item is unknown.

❖ One way or another, its unlikely that anyone would see him with an open mouth; whenever he talks, the bottom half of his face is obscured.
 
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Marica Blackmore-Harkon

Gender: Female

Alias: Was given the nickname "Ibara" (thorn) by local functionaries shortly after beginning work on these shores. She has not questioned whether or not it is a passive aggressive gesture.

Occupation: First Mate of the HMS Prosperous, Bodyguard and Aide of Her Ladyship Marchioness Dahlia Harkon - Ambassador to Usaginomiya Palace

Height: 172cm (5 feet 6 inches)
Weight: 70kg

Personality:
Marica conducts herself in a decidedly proper manner, which she believes fits her station. While not exactly uptight, she places firm emphasis on order and decorum for herself and anyone who might conceivably listen. While far from inhospitable in general, these new environments impose a more cautious demeanor on her, and she generally has avoided speaking (outside of work) when not spoken to. Her devotion to the Marchioness is conspicuous and strong, though whether she views her as a mother figure or...something else is known only to her.

Description:
If anyone can be said to have come from humble beginnings, it is none other than Marica Blackmore. Growing up on the streets in Coalridge, a mining city on the outskirts of the Pacific Empire, Marica had few promising prospects in life. Even so, she dared to dream of better. Rather than living a life of vice or of back-breaking labor with nothing to show for it after decades but black lung, Marica left with the clothes on her back and enlisted in the Pacific Navy, in an era of veritable hunger for expansion among the rulers of the Empire. Over the next several years, Marica gradually distinguished herself with uncontested talent as a fencer, the unshakable temperament of a sailor ready to weather storms, and a competent understanding of the workings of trade within and beyond the borders of the Empire.

So when the time came for the West Pacific Trading Company (an old and illustrious firm with close ties to the crown) to breach new frontiers under the eye of its current head, the Marchioness Dahlia Harkon, Marica was a natural candidate to be seconded to her as a bodyguard and personal aide, as well as first mate of the West Pacific's flagship.

Given opportunity to see sights that few from her background could even imagine, Marica renewed her dedication to her work. Her reputation from the Navy followed her: it was remarked on occasion that there was no weapon a man could hold in their hand that Marica couldn't draw a river of blood with. Nevertheless, Harkon's jovial nature and Marica's own gentility seemed to smooth out her image, making her more approachable to her peers and subordinates.

With that said, the late king of Usaginomiya's father was an ambitious man, and he sought to expand his trade network to grow the prosperity of his people (and in no small measure, his own coffers). This made him a prime candidate for the West Pacific Trading Company to approach. When he handed over his throne to his son, Lady Harkon saw no problem in making further moves, "politely suggesting" that the new king might allow the WPTC to purchase prime real estate along the coasts and ports to store their exports, and pull from the local labor pool to crew the warehouses (and maybe the ships, if all went well).

The current king was not quite so excited about agreeing to the terms as set, but did not want to pass up the opportunity to establish relations with foreign partners as well. As such, he had invited the Marchioness Harkon to his palace for further negotiations. With that in mind, Marica had arrived on the scene in advance to inspect the grounds and ensure the safety of her charge.

Investigation:
Not many of the locals trust the foreign "visitors", and a military officer among them even less. Marica inspecting the banquet hall where the Marchioness was to have dined with the king put her in fairly close proximity to the king himself, and his caution could be believed to have led to an attempt at coercion gone wrong, or even a way to eliminate him outright and put a puppet on the throne. This is an easy conclusion to jump to for the common folk who are in the know, and if it was believed true it might lead to violence in the ports. Not that the trading fleet would hesitate to fire back for more than a moment, but the last thing anyone would want is all-out war.

Extra:
- In another lifetime, she would likely have received the title of Ultimate Fencer.
- Her personal sword, Durandal, is rumored by some to be feytouched: this is nothing more than a rumor.
- As of the current year, her age is about 2/3rds that of the Marchioness.
 
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basics
NAME Mayakashi Yochi
ALIAS(ES) Esteemed Fortune Teller
GENDER Female
OCCUPATION Self-proclaimed Diviner



in-depth
PERSONALITY
A sharp fatalism hides behind an impish visage—though it's quite fitting for someone who lives and breathes the idea that all are subject to fate's demands. As her sworn duty as the messenger of the "celestial bodies," Yochi is rigid and stubborn, and blatantly uncooperative as she deems necessary. Might is right, and the power she wields are from the stars above. If the stars say no, so the fortune teller follows. Although it's quite easy to realize that everything might merely be bent to her favor, her unchallenged position as a diviner with consecutively accurate readings has only made her even more arrogant.

Yet perhaps one can catch a glimpse of a frail girl long ago shaped to think she is above earthly principles, as for the moment, those who come across her will have to deal with a rather irritating individual; no matter the class, creed, or cause. So while ill-naturedly comical and derisive at times for the heck of it, it should be noted that this one with silver hair may be more cunning than she may initially let on.

DESCRIPTION
Drip... Drip...

So the rumors are true...!

In one village, out in the sticks of the nation of Usaginomiya, a prophecy came true. A street orphan who had been saying that the clouds would weep soon in an area where it seemed long-lasting drought had made its home, predicted the unpredictable. It was raining for the first time in decades.

From there the child came under the tutelage of a grand mystic, who, behind closed doors, greatly opposed any form of theism. In place, was the belief that all things will eventually come to be, and that nothing is ever unplanned in the grander scheme of things. Naturally this was instilled greatly into who would be his successor. As the child grew, many more who seeked fervently to know their futures or the like, pleaded for a consultation with the girl who called for rain. In reality, they were simply coincidences, but perhaps even such a phenomenon would've made one wonder if fate or rather luck was on the young con's side.

At the present time, Yochi, the name she was given by her now late teacher, was known throughout the land far and wide. At what could be considered the zenith of her career, the current King requested an audience. What could go wrong?

INVESTIGATION
A room had been prepared for her especially as she was only there to visit the palace grounds at the behest of the King. From there, using various divination methods to ascertain the overall forecast for the King's life and future, he perishes not long after. Quite suspicious, isn't it? What could the reading have been about?

physical

WEIGHT 53 kg
HEIGHT 160 cm
BLOOD B Positive

HAIR Light grey
EYES Lavender
MISC Overall sickly-looking despite her upkept outfit.



EXTRA

LIKES shiny pretty things (mainly gems) / seeing people's reactions from her fortunes
DISLIKES rain; getting clothes wet / vermin (e.g. rats) / cramped spaces

ADDITIONAL INFO
❖ It may come as a surprise but she is not overly superstitious, in fact she takes any signs that other people may point out in moderation. If she interprets it as nothing, then surely it must be just nothing.
❖ Ironically, to know she is not a theist herself, her outfit—a suikan—is used by those in religious positions. Perhaps this was done with the intent to be mockful?

 
basics
NAME Nikukushi Sera
ALIAS(ES) Culinary Oni

GENDER Male
OCCUPATION Traveling Chef


in-depth
PERSONALITY
Not all tall and seemingly gruff men are created equal; so rest easy, for this teal-haired titan is only intimidating in appearance. He wouldn't even think about hurting a fly. A hearty well-meaning oaf—as a term of endearment—Sera's lively energy is sure to make any room brighter with his amicableness. Though he may appear as solely brawns, his humble upbringing instilled an emphasis on the value of hard work and everyday know-how.

For some, especially those who might be a tad bit uptight or of higher social status, he can come off a bit too strong or uncouth. He never means for anyone's discomfort to originate from him or his actions, and always looks out for those he is around even if they may not necessarily like him back. For him, strangers are merely folks waiting to be long-time companions. Perhaps because of this, it may be accurate to say he is a little naïve and can easily be incriminated by those who mean him harm or are seeking for his downfall.

DESCRIPTION
The spice of life can start from somewhere bland and monotonous; where dull days reigned, a young man wanted none of it. While it was true that nothing could replace the comfort of home, he started to become increasingly aware that everyone around him were fine with things as they were. It was at that moment that he stood at a crossroad. Should he venture forth into the unknown or stay in such a complacent lifestyle? The answer was easy, he could've just been another laborer, as his ancestors were. Yet he knew he could aspire for something higher... no... grander even! With nothing but a rucksack that held precious belongings, he said his goodbyes to faces he had known for so long and left the small prefecture of Mezurashi.

The teal-haired adult learned easy how to take care of himself and survive all on his own—lest the adventure stopped prematurely. Through sandy dunes, and rugged tundras, he wanted to explore every interesting corner of the world during his intercontinental travels. But most importantly, it was to get to know the food, the culture, and the people that make it up. Once Sera had gotten a grasp of all of that, the culmination of his experiences manifested in his cooking.

Thus he went back home, and opened up a successful start-up, feeding the mundane with a kick that only came from all the exploration. Everything could've ended there, and a tale that told of continued perseverance with a happy ending. His reputation has opened up so many doors for him, and one such door were the palace grounds.

INVESTIGATION
Immediately he built a rapport with the royal chefs that tended to the now late King. He was given the opportunity to come help out given his vast knowledge in the culinary realm. So confident in fact, in his abilities, that the privilege fell to him to give the ruler of the nation a course that would delight the monarch's tastebuds. Curious that what he prepared was his Highness's last meal, could something deadly have been put in the food?

physical

WEIGHT 88 kg
HEIGHT 188 cm
BLOOD O Negative

HAIR Teal
EYES Scarlet red
MISC Red eyeliner at the ends of his eyes, markings throughout his body of similar color. He has a few noticeable cuts and scars, one being right below his eye.



EXTRA

LIKES homemade cuisine / camaraderie / exploring new places
DISLIKES lack of work ethic / stagnation; being stuck in one place forever

ADDITIONAL INFO
❖ He is no stranger to manual labor, in fact, he's had to do what could be considered menial but physically demanding tasks. While rewarding for him, it's also taxing, yet perhaps it's why he's in generally good shape and strives to stay that way.
❖ While he loves sightseeing in general, he carries a certain fondness for places that make him feel closer to nature and the world e.g. a waterfall surrounded by forest.

 
basics
NAME Onigawara Yuna
ALIAS(ES) Oni Hitokiri

GENDER Female
OCCUPATION Royal Guard



in-depth
PERSONALITY
Strict and taciturn, yet affable and chivalrous. Yuna possesses a stern air that some might find just a bit off-putting, but those who are able to get past her gruff exterior will find a cordial soul who finds meaning in protecting others and serving the nation she has sworn her loyalty to. Despite being a woman, those closest to her even regard her as the very picture of a noble warrior.

However, one ought not to mistake her kindness for weakness, for she values peace as much as she is willing to kill to attain it. She won't hesitate to kill anyone whom she deems an enemy of the state, and has felled a great number of men to show for it, from local bandits to violent insurgents and external threats of other nations, adding quite a bit to her fearsome reputation.

DESCRIPTION
Do not fear death. It comes for us all, but the life you lead will indeed determine the death you deserve.

In the small, impoverished village of Gokayama, Yuna was born to the Onigawara clan of swordsmen. What the family might have lacked in wealth, they made up for in pride, for the obscure Onigawara style of swordsmanship had managed to keep the village safe from bandits, pirates, and other threats for generations. Though custom dictated that this style be passed down to the eldest son, Yuna's father decided to name Yuna, his sole child, his heir despite her being born as a female, sensing great talent within her, and his intuition greatly paid off as Yuna quickly proved herself to be an honest prodigy with the blade.

Yuna spent her teenage years assisting her father in his dojo and teaching others of how to master the blade until one day, the Onigawara style had caught the eye of a passing-by entourage of Royal Guards. Impressed with the young girl's demonstration, the representatives of the King offered Yuna a chance to serve the King himself with her budding skills, and before she knew it, Yuna was bidding farewell to her village before being enrolled into an imperial academy on the entourage's referral. Though it was an uphill journey even with her inborn talents, Yuna navigated her way through the academy and proved her worth as a warrior until she had become a Royal Guard herself by the time she had become a young adult, even earning the title of Oni Hitokiri -- the Demonic Manslayer -- for the many bloody battles she'd won in the name of the crown.

By now, she lives within the palace town, forging friendships with many of the commonfolk and nobility, standing tall as one of Usaginomiya's most fearsome warriors and the King's most trusted bodyguards.

INVESTIGATION
As a Royal Guard of the King, Yuna is very often seen within the palace town, if not right by the King's very side. Especially with how a skilled and seemingly loyal servant like her would garner the King's implicit trust, it would have been only too easy for her to carry the deed if she so desired. After all, what better place to kill a man than where he feels strong?

physical

WEIGHT 59 kg
HEIGHT 170 cm
BLOOD O Positive

HAIR Black
EYES Magenta
MISC Unusually long hair, at least for a warrior, reaching down to the small of her back.



EXTRA

LIKES combat training / meditating / making tea
DISLIKES ghosts / dishonorable fights / arrogant people

ADDITIONAL INFO
❖ Yuna doesn't wholly reject her feminine identity, but she does rather like being lumped with her fellow men on occasion. Other times however, she loathes the idea of having to be seen as a certain gender at all. Too bad they haven't invented a word for this kind of thing yet.
❖ Yuna has very little attachment to worldly possessions aside from her prized tachi. In fact, she donates much of her salary to her home village.

 
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basics
NAME Ruan Tianyou
ALIAS(ES) Debaucherous Diplomat

GENDER Male
OCCUPATION Nikaran Ambassador



in-depth
PERSONALITY
If one had to describe Tianyou in just one word, it would probably be "hedonistic." A man who pursues pleasure wherever he can find it, Tianyou always knows what he wants and possesses very little in the way of any sort of filter, courting the many women (and even men) of his affections as he pleases, and is known to live a shamelessly luxurious lifestyle as he can afford. Of course, this self-indulgent streak of his has landed him in his fair share of hot water as well, earning him the reputation as the decadent Debaucherous Diplomat.

Of course, such a troublesome public figure would surely have gotten the boot by now, if Tianyou weren't actually good at his job. Though he presents himself as careless and nonchalant in his day to day, Tianyou is also genuinely intelligent, shrewd, and charismatic, knowing just enough about how to work for what he wants. Well learned and well spoken, Tianyou knows how to steer people where he wants them to go and see his point of view, a highly useful tool for a diplomat under a powerful empire like Nikan who maintains relationships with a great number of other nations. Thus, for all his peers may scorn his degenerate whims, in the same breath they'll also mutter a grudging respect for his ability to facilitate peace and trade agreements with other countries, especially at such a relatively young age.

DESCRIPTION
Well, now. While we're here, why don't we try to have a bit of fun?

Born in the confines of Peking, the Empire of Nikan's national capital, Tianyou had practically been blessed with good fortune since birth, enjoying a life of great luxury for as long as he could remember thanks to his father's prestigious job as a capital doctor, while his mother of more modest origins instilled a sense of humility in him that many of his peers lacked.

Being born into wealth also meant Tianyou was able to attend school where he learned an array of subjects such as calligraphy, philosophy, and the arts. It was during these school days that Tianyou truly came to understand what he wanted out of life; his learned humility taught him how to truly appreciate all the facets that make up the many cultures of the known world and the work that humans put into them, and his natural love of learning was such that not even Nikan by itself could quench it. It wasn't enough to know and appreciate all facets of his country's culture. He had to know the lovingly crafted cultures of other civilizations as well.

Becoming a government official was practically handed to Tianyou on a silver platter, but while anyone else would have chosen to live a comfortable, boring life within the confines of Nikan, Tianyou chose instead to become a diplomat and take the chance to travel to other countries in the name of both expanding his country's sphere of influence and recording the cultures of other nations. Of course, the journey to becoming a diplomat was also facilitated by his peers' inability to put up with his unflappable personality and his unique tastes, and were more than eager to help him get out of their hair at any cost. All the same, he possessed a true knack for these diplomatic discussions, helping to establish peaceful relations and trade agreements with his fair share of countries by the time he'd even reached his late 20s.

And now finally came his latest and greatest challenge; Usaginomiya, a nation that had held an uneasy relationship with Nikan for decades but would prove to be a powerful ally if they can be swayed.

INVESTIGATION
Well, it's as they say, right? People tend to cast the most suspicion upon outsiders by default. Being a foreign delegate in particular certainly doesn't help him, especially for an empire that walks the very fine line between potential ally and political enemy for Usaginomiya. All it takes is just one private conference about a peace treaties and trade agreements, and he could have easily done the deed, all in the name of disenfranchising his political rival.

physical

WEIGHT 72 kg
HEIGHT 178 cm
BLOOD B Negative

HAIR Black
EYES Silver
MISC Wears his white jacket on his shoulders. Just refuses to put his arms through the sleeves for some reason. Also wears a jade necklace over his clothes and white gloves.



EXTRA

LIKES beautiful people / learning about other cultures / exotic foods
DISLIKES overly serious people / violence / uncleanliness

ADDITIONAL INFO
❖ Tianyou does carry a sword, as is customary for Nikaran aristocracy, but refuses to draw it unless his hand is truly forced, not that he's even a good fighter anyway.
❖ Physically, he is a bit on the weaker side, having never really needed to put himself through the ringer for most of his life.

 
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BASICS
NAME Miura Makiyo
ALIAS(ES) Hitotsumu
GENDER Female
OCCUPATION Wandering musician (Shamisen player)

IN-DEPTH
PERSONALITY
For a woman of her stature, Makiyo seems to perpetually shrink in on herself, like a newborn giraffe gracelessly tucking away its limbs. Given no prop or purpose, her gestures habitually struck an uneasy equilibrium, hands clasped and arms hovering awkwardly. Her speaking voice, often low and monotonous, belies her role as a performer. An eerie, gloomy aura clung to her—yet perhaps more odd is the persona beneath the initial impression.

Absent-minded, for the lack of a better term, is one word to suffice in describing Makiyo’s demeanor; described by others as nonchalant at best, and indifferent at worst. Her focus appears to only exist in her own contemplative realm, occasionally resurfacing when drawn by, or into, an interaction. A listener in conversations and a poet at heart, in mind, and in the few strange words she speaks, Makiyo often leaves little space for insight into her true ideals.

DESCRIPTION
What is power but belief? The truth, but a survivor’s story?

No companions, a patron, or fortune and status in her name. These are the conditions in which Makiyo roamed, living off currency earned performing from village to village; some were extended out of pity, others out of genuine recognition of her artistry. To the common people, the tale of her origins remained as fragmented whispers, with the sole known detail being her status as the only survivor of a wildfire that wiped a small village off the map, along with its inhabitants.

Four things tether Makiyo to her hometown: a biwa, a burn, a blind eye, and a surname—one stolen, and three received, from family. While it was the only natural remnant, her clan name, unspoken and unknown, bore no weight. She was known as only Makiyo to some and Hitotsumu to many: a traveling musician without even a guild to claim her. Perhaps, what kept her from being taken in was her inability to adhere to the status quo. After all, she disregarded social class and other such distinctions, addressing all with equal formality—an approach that was only ever received as an indignity by nobles.

That is, until one fateful day at a teahouse performance, in which she piqued an unlikely patron's interest. Even with the initial shock, there was no refusing the notion of performing for a noble at the Usaginomiya palace—despite her "patron's" sudden absence at the event.

INVESTIGATION
Makiyo continued performing for upper-class attendees and palace guards. The final piece conveniently ended an hour before news of the king’s demise rippled through the palace, providing ample fodder for accusations—a deliberate distraction, a ploy to act as alibi, or even a sinister ritual. All claims singled her out as an outsider in the court's midst.

Whether or not there is truth to her involvement, one fact loomed large: they held little faith in someone of her social standing. Especially not after the guards' failure to find her "patron" anywhere in the palace premises.

PHYSICAL
WEIGHT 64kg (142lbs)
HEIGHT 178cm (5'10")
BLOOD O Negative
HAIR Jet black, waist-length
EYES Milky white (left), Dark brown (right)
MISC Burns on the upper left part of her face, extending to her left shoulder. Kept hidden through hair and clothes.

EXTRA
LIKES simple pleasures — music & poetry — traditional art forms — spacing out — nature
DISLIKES overly expressive or emotional people — arrogance
MORAL ALIGNMENT chaotic neutral
MBTI TYPE intj-a

ADDITIONAL INFO
❖ Her life philosophy centers around the complete control, or rather, removal, of emotion. She found contentment in a modest existence, living mostly alongside nature and harsh conditions, with only one fundamental need: to eat enough in a day to stay alive.
❖ Her alias, Hitotsumu (One in existence, one in absence), stems from jests likening her to her shamisen, as if they were a single entity. It also alludes to the one-eyed yokai, the hitotsume-kozo.
 
basics
NAME Iwayanagi Fusashige (岩柳 房茂)
ALIAS(ES) Asagaozome (朝顔染)

GENDER Male
OCCUPATION Cosmetics Craftsman



in-depth

PERSONALITY
Fusashige is an amicable, albeit melancholic, individual with a soft heart. He's the kind of person who always lends a listening ear and offers a comforting shoulder to cry on. His gentle nature and genuine concern for others make him a trusted confidant, someone people turn to in times of need.

However, his warm smile was often paired with a subtle sadness in his eyes, reflecting the intense emotions his harbors within. Perhaps it's because of his sensitivity that he fails to set his own boundaries. Fusashige can become emotionally drained from constantly absorbing the problems and concerns of those around him, leaving little room to address his own needs and aspirations. In rare moments of frustration, this emotional burden may lead him to withdraw or unintentionally hurt those closest to him. Though he used to be a daring and flirtatious individual, his past has mellowed him over the years.

DESCRIPTION

With serious and gentle hands, I weighed my life. Worthy of every second after all I realized. Even its hidden riches, I've slowly recovered. Up to this point, I've received more than anticipated.

The Iwayanagi clan, once a powerful line of bureaucrats, had seen their political influence wane considerably by the time Fusashige was born. Despite the decline of his family's stature, Fusashige, as the eldest son of the main branch, harbored ambitions of his own. He was determined to secure a place in the crown prince (now late king)'s entourage. Fusashige's journey through the corridors of power, however, was fraught with complications.

The intrigues of the court were a perilous dance, and his position was not as secure as he had hoped. Frustrated by the capricious nature of court politics, he found solace in the company of an enigmatic courtesan. But, like all things in the imperial court, even Fusashige's sanctuary came at a price. As her admirers increased, so did the price to redeem her. The financial strain of maintaining such a lavish connection soon became unsustainable for him, so they had one final night before separating altogether.

A year later, he collasped on the floor, tightly grasping onto a small pouch and a red-stained letter. The maids tried to calm him down, but his face was contorted with anguish. Not even his father could snap him out of it as he whispered a name like a sacred mantra: "Asagao... Asagao... Asagao..." Those were the last words he said before leaving his family, his position at court, and everything he had ever known.

It had been over a decade since Fusashige had abandoned the imperial court, seeking purpose in the artisan's quarter of Kakone. Under the guise of "Asagaozome," he honed his skills and created exquisite cosmetics that concealed flaws and enhanced the allure of kabuki actors, courtesans, and nobles alike. Even if craftsmen were expected to be patroned by the aristocracy, it was thanks to his past connections that he was allowed to thrive in anonymity.

In the midst of his new life, he also took a little boy under his wing. Though they were constantly at odds with one another due to their contrasting personalities, the striking resemblance between him and his mentor didn't go unnoticed by their neighbors.

INVESTIGATION

It's normal for Usaginomiyan gentlemen to wear cosmetics. It's also common for craftsmen to deliver their goods to palace attendants and servants. But for one to personally meet the king? Now that's an anomaly.

So when the guards discovered that the loitering craftsman was the former young master to the Iwayanagi clan, they were baffled by this unexpected reunion. He insisted that he only communicated with the king for business purposes, but it further raised the suspicions of the guards and he was promptly arrested. Why would he come back after deserting his position? Did he truly come here in goodwill, or did he cause the king's demise through more... discreet means?

physical
WEIGHT 69 kg (152 lbs)
HEIGHT 176 cm (5"9)
BLOOD A Negative

HAIR Lilac
EYES Turquoise green
MISC A peony boutonniere pinned on his haori.



EXTRA

LIKES makeup / gardening / strategy board games / oshibana
DISLIKES unsolicited advice / touching without consent / citrus fruit

ADDITIONAL INFO
❖ Fusashige still kept the small pouch inside his pocket. It's unknown what's inside, but it seems important enough for him to check its contents when no one's looking.
❖ Although he was no longer as wealthy as he used to be, Fusashige was able to afford his own garden with safflowers, tea bushes, and herbs. However, rather than being used to nourish himself, they are primarily used as ingredients for his cosmetics or to feed the little boy. It'd be a miracle if all of his crops survive after his disappearance.
❖ Lately, he started to get insomnia due to spontaneous bouts of headaches and cramps. He had no idea what led to it, since he never deviated from his routine.

 

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