Datasets:

PocketDoc

/

Dans-Prosemaxx-Cowriter-XL

like 1

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing buddy needed! six sentences more in Laura Joh Rowland's voice. Sano Ichiro 5 genre. this is from a bigger story btw" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano, Marume, and Fukida rode up to the Imperial Palace just as the temple bells signaled half past the hour of the dog. Outside the palace gate, two sentries—one a Tokugawa soldier, the other an imperial watchman—stood guard.\n\nDismounting, Sano introduced himself and said, \"I'm here to see the emperor, at his request.\"\n\n\"Yes, sōsakan-sama.\" The Tokugawa soldier bowed, then turned to the watchman. \"Go and fetch the imperial escort.\"\n\nThe watchman went inside the palace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano and his detectives waited in the quiet, empty street." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Beneath a deep violet sky full of stars, a dark mass of leafy treetops rose above the palace walls. Time passed. The moon's irregular white orb floated over the hills. Sano grew restless as hunger, thirst, and weariness of body and spirit strained his patience. Looking at the tired faces of his men, he knew they felt no better than he. They'd spent all day investigating the fern-leaf coins, to no avail. On the way to the palace he'd told them about Lady Asagao's confession and arrest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They shared his doubts, and had loyally seconded his decision to seek out the truth before taking Asagao to Edo for trial. They, too, would suffer if he got in trouble, because their livelihood and honor were tied to his.\n\nFinally the watchman returned with two guards bearing lanterns. They led Sano and his men into the imperial compound.\n\nThe palace was a different world at night, enfolded in a darkness more dense than in the city outside. The guards' lanterns spilled weak light against fences and cast long shadows as they preceded Sano, Marume, and Fukida through the kuge quarter." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They met no one." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Their footsteps echoed forlornly; the only other sounds were the trickle of water in drains and the ever-present insect songs. The warm, humid air breathed a scent of earth, ashes, and the decay of centuries past.\n\n\"This place is eerie,\" said Marume. His jovial voice sounded hollow in the gloom. \"Give me the noise and lights and bustle of Edo Castle any day.\"\n\nFukida looked around nervously." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The same uneasiness infected Sano, who imagined hidden watchers peering at him. In his tired, tense state, the notion of three armed samurai afraid of the dark didn't seem as laughable as it should have. He wished the guards would hurry, but they maintained a slow, decorous pace.\n\nEntering the imperial enclosure, they crossed a lane and passed through an inner gate to a compound of interconnected buildings. They walked a circuitous route around halls, then through a passage and into an open courtyard surrounded by dark buildings and roofed walkways.\n\nSuddenly the guards divided and fled in opposite directions, taking the lights with them, and vanished." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hey, what is this?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Marume demanded, his voice raised in surprised protest." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The compound, plunged into darkness, became a labyrinth of shadows." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The white gravel and walls shone faintly in the moonlight, but black gloom filled the walkways and surrounded the buildings.\n\n\"Wait. Come back!\" Sano called to the guards.\n\nThe echo of their rapid footsteps faded into the distance.\n\n\"Something strange is going on here.\" Suspicion disturbed Sano. \"This feels like a trap.\"\n\nHe and his detectives started across the courtyard, swords drawn, treading quietly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano experienced a peculiar sensation, like a silent, windless air current vibrating around him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His skin prickled; his heartbeat accelerated; his breath quickened involuntarily with the physical urgency of fear." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🎯 Target word: 'fukida' | Required occurrences: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His muscles tightened in reaction to an evil presence.\n\nHalting, he said, \"What is it?\"\n\nMarume and Fukida had also stopped, apparently arrested by the same inexplicable feeling. Sano felt his heart beating harder, and the blood pulsating in his head.\n\n\"Where are you?\" Fukida muttered, waving his sword as if under attack by a ghost.\n\n\"Show yourself!\" Marume lunged at shadows." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In the near distance beyond the courtyard, through a walkway and the lacy black foliage of trees, a strange, pale haze tinged the air." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The vibrations issued from this eerie brightness, muting noises that sounded like frightened cries. Sano pointed and said, \"Whatever it is, it's over there.\"\n\nMarume and Fukida hurried to stand between him and the unknown threat. \"sōsakan-sama, we're taking you out of here,\" Fukida said.\n\n\"Come on, let's go,\" Marume said.\n\nBut now, Sano's sense of danger was overpowering." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ignoring his men's attempt to protect him, he ran across the courtyard, bounded over the walkway, and through a garden toward the light." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The detectives chased after him, calling, \"No! Stop!\"\n\nSano came upon a wall that stood between him and the eerie glow. He could still feel the ominous presence, like an invisible net. Then he heard the loud, raspy breathing of some monstrous creature. Battling an instinctive urge to flee, he sheathed his sword. He crouched, arms raised, then jumped." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His hands grasped the top of the wall; his feet scraped the plaster as he pulled himself up." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Suddenly the night exploded in a scream of thunderous intensity, as though a million voices had combined into a single horrific sound." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Its force knocked Sano off the wall. He landed hard on his back, but he hardly noticed the pain. Rolling facedown, he clasped his arms over his head, trying to block out the dreadful noise that blasted through him. Involuntary sobs wracked him as he felt his muscles tremble uncontrollably, his tendons contract, and his ears throb in pain. Every nerve vibrated; his stomach and chest shuddered. Sano realized that this terrible scream was the spirit cry heard across Miyako the night of Left Minister Konoe's murder." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He cried out in terror, but he couldn't even hear himself over the noise. He feared for the safety of his detectives as the killer unleashed the deadly power of kiai.\n\nWho was it?\n\nDespite his agony, Sano experienced a sense of awe. Witnessing this ultimate expression of the martial arts affirmed not only his belief in kiai, but his faith in the Way of the Warrior.\n\nThe scream abruptly stopped." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A huge void of silence spread across the night." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano gasped in relief. His ears rang from the blast. He ached all over; his head throbbed; his heart still pounded. Pushing himself to his knees, he inhaled deep breaths of air and looked around. The strange brightness was gone. In the moonlight Sano saw two inert bodies sprawled on the grass nearby." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Marume-san!\" he cried. \"Fukida-san?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must include the following in quotes somewhere in your response: Now we know for sure that Lady Asagao didn't murder Left Minister Konoe, because she's locked up in police headquarters. The killer is still out there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "To his relief, the men stirred and sat up. \"Merciful gods, am I alive or dead?\" Marume groaned.\n\n\"I'll never again think of kiai as just an ancient superstition,\" Fukida said, gasping.\n\nSano realized that they'd all survived because they'd been far enough away from the source of the spirit cry to feel only minor secondary effects. He said, \"Now we know for sure that Lady Asagao didn't murder Left Minister Konoe, because she's locked up in police headquarters. The killer is still out there.\"\n\nFrom beyond the wall came the rapid, irregular rhythm of retreating footsteps." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Quickly!\" Sano said." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage requirement: 'another' must appear 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He and the detectives helped one another scramble over the wall, into another compound. Out of the darkness before them rose long buildings with piles of wood stacked against the walls and huge stone hearths outside. A hush pervaded the palace, as though everyone knew that the scream heralded death and chose to hide until the danger passed.\n\n\"These must be the kitchens,\" Sano said in a low, hurried voice. \"We'll spread out. If you see the strange light or feel the vibrations again, make a lot of noise and disrupt the killer's concentration to prevent another spirit cry.\"\n\nMarume and Fukida disappeared into the shadows." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano crept around the hearths, alert for any movement or other hint of the killer's presence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He remembered the horrendous noise and power of the spirit cry, and icy fear seeped through him while he searched the kitchen compound." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then he spied a dark shape on the ground outside a building." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He approached cautiously and recognized the shape as a prone human figure, lying motionless on its stomach, arms and legs splayed, a sword clutched in its hand.\n\nBlackness surrounded the body like a viscous shadow. Sano touched the shadow, and hot liquid smeared his fingers. The raw, metallic odor of fresh blood and the reek of feces assailed him. He listened for the sound of breaths, but heard nothing. Sano rolled the corpse over." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It had a weird pliancy, as if the bones had dissolved, and felt oddly warm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Despite the meager light, Sano saw that the dead man's face was awash in blood that had poured from his nose, mouth, eyes, and ears, drenching his clothes. He recalled Yoriki Hoshina describing Left Minister Konoe's death: \"... hemorrahaged almost all his blood... internal organs ruptured... many bones broken...\"\n\nNausea and horror churned Sano's stomach. Because he hadn't solved the case, someone else had died.\n\nHurrying footsteps pounded toward him. Was the murderer returning to attack again?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He looked up, saw Marume and Fukida coming, and exhaled in relief." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We couldn't find the killer,\" Marume said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Whoever it is could be anywhere in the palace, or out in the city by now.\" Then he saw the corpse beside Sano. \"Merciful gods!\"\n\n\"Who is it?\" Fukida said.\n\nSano took a cloth from under his sash. He wiped the blood off the corpse's face, revealing familiar heavy-lidded eyes, flat nose, and thin mouth. \"It's Aisu,\" he said, startled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Chamberlain Yanagisawa's chief retainer.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "💬 Please integrate this quote: \"He was a piece of scum. I'm certain he threw that bomb at us in Tobacco Lane. He deserved to die.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marume said, \"He was a piece of scum. I'm certain he threw that bomb at us in Tobacco Lane. He deserved to die.\"\n\n\"What was he doing here?\" Fukida said.\n\n\"I don't know, but his presence must mean that Yanagisawa is in Miyako, because they're never far apart.\" Sano experienced the disturbing shock of discovering that reality had a far different shape than he'd perceived. Rising, he cursed under his breath. He'd thought himself safe from Yanagisawa, free to restore his honor and regain the shogun's favor in peace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But his enemy must have secretly followed him here. Why had Sano imagined that Yanagisawa would let him off so easily?\n\n\"But why would the chamberlain risk leaving Edo?\" Marume said, his voice skeptical. \"Where is he now, and what's he up to?\"\n\nAs Sano stood contemplating Aisu's corpse, he realized that Yanagisawa must be the hidden element in the murder case." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa was working another plot against him." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Weave this into your narrative: \"This whole investigation was rigged as a trap for me at the start,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Its exact details weren't clear, but Sano glimpsed its intent, with mounting dismay.\n\n\"This whole investigation was rigged as a trap for me at the start,\" he said. \"Yanagisawa has been working behind the scenes, directing my every move—Aisu wasn't clever enough to manage such a tricky operation alone. Events were supposed to culminate in my death from the spirit cry tonight. But the murderer killed Aisu instead of me.\"\n\nMarume and Fukida looked at him as if concerned for his sanity. \"How do you know?\" Marume said. \"And how could Yanagisawa manipulate you? Even if he sent the message summoning you here and ordered the guards to abandon us inside the palace, how could he cause the killer to attack? And why was Aisu here?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano had ideas, but no definite answers yet. A plan began forming in his mind. Whatever stroke of luck had saved his life, plus the knowledge he'd gained, gave him a chance to turn Yanagisawa's scheme to his own advantage. But he needed to act fast. Instead of replying to Marume's questions, he raised his head, listening to the night. He heard distant voices." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The glow of lanterns hazed the air above surrounding areas of the palace, and he knew that soon people would flock to see what new destruction the spirit cry had wrought." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"There's no time to talk,\" Sano said. \"Just listen, then do as I say. Fukida-san, give me your surcoat.\"\n\nThe detective frowned in confusion, but obeyed. Sano spread the garment over Aisu's face. \"You stay with the corpse. Tell the Imperial Court that it's me, that I was the killer's victim.\" Ignoring his men's shocked exclamations, Sano rushed on: \"Aisu was taller and thinner than I am, but the blood and filth will discourage anyone from taking a close look. You'll have to remove the corpse as quickly as possible and figure out a way to hide it. Then issue an official report of my death. Keep the real events of tonight a secret.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, sōsakan-sama.\" Although Fukida sounded dazed, Sano knew he would carry out the orders." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate this exact phrase, preserving the quotation marks: \"We have to get out of the palace before anyone sees me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Marume-san, you come with me now,\" Sano said. \"We have to get out of the palace before anyone sees me.\"\n\n\"Wait, please, sōsakan-sama,\" Fukida said. \"What shall I tell your wife?\"\n\nThe question almost shattered Sano's resolve. While the voices grew louder, moving lights shone up through trees outside the kitchen compound, and precious time sped away, he imagined how the news of his murder would affect Reiko." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "To let her think him dead was much worse than his lust for another woman. When Reiko found out the truth, she might never forgive his deceit. But if he didn't use this chance to combat Yanagisawa's machinations, he might never solve the case or win his battle against the chamberlain. Failure would doom Reiko along with him. He had to save them both.\n\n\"Break the news to my wife as gently as possible,\" Sano said at last." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Not even she can know I survived, until I finish what I have to do.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Any lapse in secrecy could ruin everything. The fewer people who knew about his ploy, the better. Sano added, \"With luck, I won't have to deceive her for long.\" Then he and Marume left quickly." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "keep the story goin for one sentence more. Sano Ichiro 5 genre, Laura Joh Rowland style. characters might be from earlier chapters" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As Sano and Marume raced past buildings in the imperial enclosure, dark windows brightened." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Glowing lanterns moved within corridors." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All around them, Sano heard voices and movement." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He and Marume changed directions repeatedly in order to avoid the notice of the people converging on the murder scene." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In a garden, they ducked behind a pavilion to hide from a horde of palace watchmen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They dashed through courtyards and passages until they reached the wall that separated the enclosure from the northern sector of the kuge quarter." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They scaled the wall and leapt down to the lane below." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Which way?\" Marume asked, panting." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano didn't know a direct route out of the palace, and he couldn't risk getting lost or being seen in the kuge quarter." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He said, \"We'll take the overhead shortcut.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He and Marume climbed the fence opposite the imperial enclosure and pulled themselves onto the low eaves of a villa." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rooftops spread around them like an eerie gray landscape of tiled peaks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They sped across this, and Sano hoped that if the residents heard them, they would be far away before anyone got a good look at them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They jumped from house to house and over narrow lanes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At last they surmounted the main palace wall and halted in the darkness of Imadegawa Avenue." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What now?\" Marume said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Go to the gate we went in by and get our horses,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Ride away, then double around and meet me in the alley across Teramachi Avenue and two blocks north from the gate. Don't let the palace guards see you come back.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Marume hurried off to obey." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano's own path took him through the deserted city streets around the palace, past dark houses and closed shops." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "By the time he reached the rendezvous spot, Marume was already there, waiting for him beneath a balcony with the horses." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Care to let me in on what's next?\" Marume said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano quickly outlined his plan." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then they stood in the alley, watching the avenue." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After a brief wait, Marume said, \"Look, here he comes.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just as Sano had predicted, Yoriki Hoshina rode up to the gate, accompanied by a group of other policemen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The group dismounted and went inside the palace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Let's go,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They mounted their horses and rode to Miyako police headquarters, which was in the city's administrative district, near the mansions of local officials." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A stone wall enclosed stables, barracks, and a main building that housed offices." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Torchlight flared within the compound." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano had interviewed Lady Asagao here in her prison cell earlier." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He'd also met with Hoshina to discuss the arrest, so he knew where Hoshina's private quarters were." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now he and Marume left their horses in a side street." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Marume went to the gate to tell the guards he wanted to talk to Hoshina about the murder at the palace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano crept around to the rear of the complex." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Pairs of idle, bored-looking sentries manned gates at intervals along the wall; clearly, they didn't expect anyone to break into police headquarters." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano climbed over the wall, dropped into the deserted compound, and located the barracks, four long, single-story buildings with narrow verandas in front and privy sheds behind, arranged around a courtyard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hoshina had a corner suite in the east unit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just as Sano reached the rear door, he heard voices at the front of the building: Marume, talking with the guard who had escorted him into headquarters to wait for Hoshina." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Presently Sano heard a door open and noises inside; the windows of Hoshina's quarters lit up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The broad silhouette of Marume appeared on the paper panes and moved toward Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then the door slid open." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marume looked out, saw Sano, and nodded." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano entered silently, following Marume into a bedchamber where Hoshina's futon lay on the floor, through paper partitions to an office furnished with a desk and cabinets, then a parlor where a lantern burned above floor cushions and a low table. Marume knelt in the parlor and Sano on the other side of the partition in the shadow of a cabinet to wait for Hoshina." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Keep going w/ 3 sentences more. Note: Might reference existing chars" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko heard the spirit cry from her room in Nijō Manor.\n\nAfter Sano had left for the Imperial Palace, she'd lain down on the futon while waiting for him to come back, and had fallen asleep. The chilling scream jarred her into alertness." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Around her, floors creaked as the inn's other guests stirred; voices clamored.\n\n\"Did you hear that noise?\"\n\n\"What was it?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "But Reiko knew instinctively what it was." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She also knew for certain now that Lady Asagao wasn't the killer, because the spirit cry had come from the direction of the palace. In the moonlight that shone through the windows, she saw that she was alone; Sano hadn't returned. A rush of panic agitated Reiko." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The spirit cry had heralded death once before." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Not much time could have passed since Sano left; he could still be inside the palace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She had to make sure he was safe." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She dressed hurriedly, then ran out to the corridor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The innkeeper's wife appeared, clad in a night robe.\n\n\"That was the same noise we heard the night the imperial left minister died,\" said the woman. \"Everyone knows he was killed by a ghost with magical powers.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "This, then, was how the superstitious townspeople explained the scream and the murder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You must stay in your room where you'll be safe.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I have to see if my husband is all right.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko started toward the door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The innkeeper's wife held her back. \"But you can't go out alone at night. Outlaws will attack you.\"\n\n\"I'll take my husband's guards with me,\" Reiko said, eager to reach Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You must stay.\" Concern gave the woman's manner authority." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Let me send a manservant to the palace to see what happened.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko reluctantly consented, less because of fear for herself than the thought that Sano was probably busy investigating another murder and would be upset if she interrupted him. The innkeeper's wife dispatched the servant. Reiko lit a lamp in her room and sat drinking tea, wondering who had uttered the spirit cry and why the killer would strike again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After an hour, the innkeeper's wife reappeared and said, \"The servant just came back. He spoke to the guards at the palace gate. All they told him was that there had been another death. They wouldn't say who it was.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko felt a sudden stab of fear." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thank you,\" she said.\n\nAlone in her room, she told herself it couldn't be Sano who had died; she would have sensed if anything had happened to him. But wouldn't he know she would hear the spirit cry?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Wouldn't he send a message to reassure her? Dread mounted in Reiko. The inn quieted as the other guests settled down to sleep, and in the stillness, the thudding of her heart echoed in her ears." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The room was hot, but Reiko's hands turned cold from an inner chill." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She thought of sending one of Sano's guards into the palace for news, then reconsidered. She wanted to know, yet she did not want to know.\n\nTime dragged on. Then Reiko heard footsteps approaching her room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She threw open the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There stood Detective Fukida." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "One look at his haggard face told her what she'd been dreading. She had a sensation of a black void absorbing all the light and warmth and joy in the world.\n\n\"No,\" she whispered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We were on our way to see the emperor.\" The young samurai's voice trembled. \"The killer ambushed us inside the palace, and—\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No, it's impossible. When he left, he said he would see me later.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko heard herself forestalling the inevitable truth. She backed away from Fukida, glancing wildly around the room. \"His things are still here. He can't be—\" She could not make herself say it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Fukida came to her and grasped her hands. Because he would never touch his master's wife under ordinary circumstances, the gesture convinced Reiko and pierced her heart. She pulled her hands out of Fukida's and hunched low, arms clasped around herself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Honorable Lady Reiko, I'm sorry,\" Fukida said, looking ready to weep. \"Your husband is dead.\"\n\n\"Where is he?\" Now Reiko experienced a consuming need to be with Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Although she remained outwardly calm, emotion began building inside her, as if her spirit stood in the path of a violent storm. \"Take me there.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Fukida shook his head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I can't,\" he said wretchedly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"There was such great injury to him...\" The young detective gulped, then continued: \"Before he died, he used his last breath to order me to spare you the sight of him. I'm sorry.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But I'm his wife. You can't keep me away.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The storm inside Reiko gathered power; she could hear the gusting winds of grief and the thunder of outrage coming closer, and see the turbulent black clouds of despair lowering upon her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Where is he? I demand that you take me to my husband immediately!\"\n\nNow the storm overpowered Reiko. Falling to her knees, she howled, \"No. No. No!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Raised in samurai tradition, she'd been trained to value stoicism and practice self-control, but this terrible moment taught her that training was inadequate preparation for tragedy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She didn't care if she compromised her dignity. With her beloved husband dead, what did social standards of behavior matter anymore?\n\nThrough the tears that streamed from her eyes, she saw Fukida standing by, helpless and shamefaced." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He said, \"I'll get help,\" then fled." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Soon Reiko's maids came. They hugged her, murmuring words of comfort that she barely heard above her own sobs and moans. They held her still while a local physician poured a bitter liquid down her throat. It must have been a sleeping potion, because the world grew hazy, and Reiko drifted into unconsciousness." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for eight sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Temple bells tolled the next hour, and the next, while Sano and Marume waited for Yoriki Hoshina." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At last Sano heard brisk footsteps cross the courtyard and mount the wooden stairs to the veranda." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stood in the shadow of the cabinet, braced for action. The front door opened. Now the shadow of a second figure appeared opposite Marume's on the paper partition.\n\n\"Ah, Marume-san,\" said Hoshina's voice. \"The sentries just told me you were here. I'm sorry you had such a long wait, but after I finished at the palace, I had to go to the shoshidai's mansion to report what had happened.\"\n\nBoth shadows bowed; Hoshina's knelt. Marume said, \"It's I who should apologize for coming here without notice.\"\n\n\"Under the circumstances, formality is unnecessary,\" Hoshina said in a kind, forgiving tone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He obviously had no idea that he and Marume weren't alone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"My condolences on the murder of your master.\"\n\n\"Thank you,\" Marume said sadly. \"That's why I'm here.\"\n\n\"If you wish to take over the investigation, I'll do everything in my power to help you identify the killer and obtain justice for the sōsakan-sama.\" Hoshina's sincerity grated on Sano's nerves. The yoriki acted the part of the sympathetic, dutiful subordinate with perfection, no doubt rejoicing all the while.\n\n\"Well, I'm glad you're so willing to help,\" Marume said, his voice cheerful now, \"because here's your big chance.\"\n\nSano stepped around the partition, into the parlor. \"Good evening, Hoshina-san.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shock widened the yoriki's eyes. \"sōsakan-sama,\" he said. \"But I thought—\"\n\nAware of Hoshina's part in the plot against him, Sano was gratified by his reaction. He permitted himself a sardonic smile. \"You thought I was dead? Of course you did, after coming from the scene of my murder.\"\n\nHoshina rose, staring at Sano. Marume stood, too, surreptitiously moving between Hoshina and the door. Hoshina shook his head in disbelief." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'didn't' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But I saw your body, and your blood on the ground, and Detective Fukida grieving over you.\"\n\n\"Obviously, you and your men didn't see any need to look at the face of the corpse,\" Sano said, glad that his prediction of the police's behavior had proved accurate. \"That was a stupid mistake for someone as smart as you think you are.\"\n\nThe insult brought a scowl to Hoshina's face. His breathing quickened and his mouth worked as he struggled to get his emotions under control and understand what had happened. \"If you didn't die at the palace, then who did?\" he asked.\n\n\"It was Aisu,\" Sano said.\n\nHe saw instant recognition of the name in the yoriki's gaze, then fear." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But Hoshina quickly masked his response with a bewildered expression." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Who on earth is Aisu?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He was a high-ranking bakufu retainer from Edo. You may have met him during the past few days.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"... No, I don't believe so.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hoshina frowned in a studied attempt at remembering, then said, \"I'm sorry; I've never even heard of the man.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But the energy of racing thoughts and mounting distress radiated from him. \"What was this Aisu doing in Miyako?\"\n\n\"You tell me,\" Sano said.\n\nHoshina gave a nervous chuckle. \"How can I, when I didn't know him?\" Then he spread his arms as if to embrace Sano, and said earnestly, \"Look, I'm overjoyed to see you alive and well. But why have you let everyone think you dead?\"\n\nSano's plan required the element of surprise, which had already unbalanced Yoriki Hoshina, and which he hoped to employ to even greater advantage soon.\n\n\"Why did you sneak into my quarters?\" Hoshina added." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ignoring the questions, Sano said, \"Where is he?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Where is who?\" Hoshina spoke in a tone of puzzled innocence, but his gaze shifted furtively." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Chamberlain Yanagisawa,\" said Sano.\n\n\"The shogun's second-in-command? In Edo, I suppose. How would I know?\"\n\nMarume laughed in derisive amusement. \"You're a pretty good actor. Maybe you should have chosen a career in the Kabuki theater instead of with the police force, because then you wouldn't be in as much trouble as you are now. Answer the sōsakan-sama's question.\"\n\n\"I assure you that I would if I could,\" Hoshina said. Anger and panic shone through the transparent veil of his courtesy; his tongue flicked out to wet his lips. \"If you're threatening me, I don't understand why. Maybe I could be of more help if someone explained what's going on.\"\n\nSano was growing impatient with Hoshina's false innocence, but he found a certain satisfaction in laying out what he'd deduced. \"Yanagisawa wants to solve the mystery of Left Minister Konoe's death and destroy my reputation as a detective and my standing with the shogun by beating me at my own game." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He won't risk a public defeat, so he came to Miyako secretly. But he can't identify the killer without information about the victim, the crime scene, and the suspects that he couldn't get for himself while staying hidden. He also intends to benefit from whatever leads I find.\n\n\"Therefore, he needs someone to feed him facts and inform him on my progress. Someone inside the local bakufu, with expertise in investigating crimes, upon whose assistance I would rely. Someone he could trust to sabotage me by withholding information about the case.\" Sano stared at Yoriki Hoshina. \"Someone like you.\"\n\n\"With all due respect, you've got the wrong idea about me.\" Now Hoshina arranged his face in the confident, ingratiating smile of a man accustomed to using looks and charm to ease his way through life. Yet the air in the room was sour with the reek of his anxious sweat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've done everything in my power to help you. I haven't withheld anything from you. If Chamberlain Yanagisawa is in Miyako, it's news to me. And there's not one reason why I should sabotage your investigation.\"\n\n\"There's exactly one reason,\" Sano said, eyeing Hoshina with a contempt that extended to himself for thinking this man merely untrustworthy and no real threat. \"Ambition.\"\n\n\"All right; I am ambitious. That I want to advance in the world is no secret. Therefore, it was in my interest to do my best for you so you would think well of me and recommend me for a promotion in Edo.\" Hoshina was all reasonableness and affability. \"I've nothing to gain by making you look bad.\"\n\n\"You have much to gain by serving a man who can do more for you than I can.\"\n\n\"I'm sorry you've taken such a dislike to me,\" Hoshina said contritely, but his eyes had the wary look of someone humoring a madman. \"At least tell me what it is you think I've done against you, so I can defend myself and set things right.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You knew I needed to make further inquiries about Lady Asagao after she revealed her quarrel with Konoe and lied about her alibi to my wife. You guessed that I would search her rooms or send someone to do it. You planted the bloodstained robes in her cabinet.\"\n\nSano watched Hoshina for a reaction, but the yoriki's face showed only consternation that might indicate either guilty or innocent surprise.\n\n\"One of your palace spies must have stolen her clothes for you,\" Sano continued. \"If I look in the police stables, will I find a horse with a recent cut? Did you dip the robes in the horse blood and heat them over a fire to dry them and make the stains look a month old? You and Chamberlain Yanagisawa arranged a false arrest so he could show up later, catch the real killer, and take all the credit.\"\n\nHoshina burst out laughing; he slapped his knee. \"Pardon my amusement, sōsakan-sama, but that's the most farfetched story I've heard in a long time. Surely, the real killer planted the fake evidence to frame Lady Asagao. That seems to me a more logical explanation.\"\n\nHe might be right, Sano realized, and even if not, Hoshina wasn't going to admit to anything. Now that he'd recovered from the shock of seeing Sano, he'd regained his bluffing skills." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The longer the interrogation went on, the less Hoshina would give away, and the greater the chance that someone might come and see that Sano was alive.\n\nSano said, \"You didn't stop at withholding information and misguiding me. You and Chamberlain Yanagisawa set me up to be murdered tonight.\"\n\nThe yoriki's face froze in its amiable, concerned expression. His body tensed, and Sano knew what he was thinking. Hoshina could get away with sabotaging the investigation because Yanagisawa had ordered him to do so; he wouldn't suffer any punishment as long as he had Yanagisawa's protection. But conspiracy to murder the shogun's sōsakan-sama was a graver charge. Even without proof of the plot, or of Hoshina's involvement in it, Sano could ruin his career just by accusing him publicly. If Sano put him on trial for the crime in a judicial system where most trials ended in a guilty verdict, he would be condemned to death." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa would let Hoshina take the whole blame, sacrificing the yoriki to save himself." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This awareness flashed in Hoshina's eyes in an instant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His smile became a grimace; he relaxed his muscles with slow, deliberate effort, but held himself cautiously still, as if he stood at the brink of a deep gorge. \"I don't know what you're talking about,\" he said.\n\nWithout warning, he bolted toward the door. Sano lunged after him, but Marume moved faster. The burly detective locked his arms around Hoshina's thighs and brought down the yoriki with a crash. Hoshina kicked and flailed, trying to break free. Marume hung on. Sano wasn't surprised that Hoshina had decided to run. His best hope of avoiding ruin was to find a way to warn Yanagisawa that Sano was alive and knew about the plot." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hoshina tore loose from Marume's grasp." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As he scrambled across the floor, Sano jumped on him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marume grabbed his ankles. Hoshina had formidable strength, muscles like flexible steel, and fast reflexes. He fought savagely, bludgeoning Sano and Marume with his fists, knees, elbows, and head, but he didn't try to use the swords at his waist: Only escape would save him; killing two bakufu officials would get him in deeper trouble. Sano caught a stunning blow to the jaw, and Marume a kick in the stomach, but they both held on to Hoshina. They stifled cries of pain and exertion, because noise might bring people who would see Sano. Hoshina didn't call for help, probably because he didn't want to explain why he was fighting with his two superiors. The only sounds in the room were harsh gasps, the thump of blows to flesh and bone, scabbards clattering, and the crash of bodies against floor and walls.\n\nThen Marume and Sano pinned Hoshina facedown under them." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'hoshina's' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He heaved and bucked, but when Sano twisted his arm sharply, he went stiff. Marume stripped off his own sash and cut it in half with his sword. He and Sano used the lengths of fabric to bind Hoshina's ankles together and wrists behind him, then knotted the loose ends of the restraints so that Hoshina's knees doubled backward. The yoriki writhed on the floor, muscles straining to break his bonds. Sweat gleamed on his face; blood trickled from his nose. With his hair in wild disarray and his teeth bared, he looked more animal than human.\n\nSano stood, mopping his own perspiring face on his sleeve. Sore spots on his chest and limbs marked the places where bruises would soon appear." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Marume leaned against the wall, his left eye red and swelling." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Remember to mention: \"One: You can stick to your lies. I don't recommend this, because if you do it, I'll destroy you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You have two choices,\" Sano told the yoriki. \"One: You can stick to your lies. I don't recommend this, because if you do it, I'll destroy you.\"\n\nHoshina struggled harder and spat curses at Sano.\n\n\"Two: You can cooperate with me, and I'll let you off,\" Sano continued. \"All you have to do is tell me everything you know that relates to the murder of Left Minister Konoe, what Yanagisawa is planning, and where he is. I'll place you under protection so he can't punish you for betraying him.\"\n\nHoshina gave Sano a look of contempt. \"That's not two choices, but one: certain death!\" A strangled laugh burst from him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano knew that a promise of protection against the most powerful man in Japan was of questionable value, and that he might be exacting cooperation at the cost of Hoshina's life, but he couldn't relent. \"Choose now,\" he ordered.\n\nThe yoriki heaved sideways, gasping and grunting, in a futile effort to escape. His head tossed; the tendons of his neck bulged. Then, with a shuddering moan, he went limp. He closed his eyes and nodded in defeat, just as Sano had anticipated he would. Hoshina was no noble samurai who would sacrifice himself out of loyalty to Yanagisawa.\n\n\"Thank you.\" Sano exchanged a satisfied glance with Marume." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Now, what information did you withhold from me? What lies did you tell?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His expression sullen, Hoshina spoke in a quiet monotone, confirming notions Sano had already entertained." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Tell me about Chamberlain Yanagisawa's plot against me.\"\n\nHoshina revealed disturbing details of the plot, but Sano sensed major gaps in his knowledge. \"Where is Yanagisawa?\" Sano asked.\n\n\"I don't know where he is right now; he didn't tell me all his plans for tonight. But I'm supposed to meet him at a villa in the hills in the morning.\" At Sano's request, Hoshina gave directions.\n\nSano stood, beckoned Marume to follow him to the back door, and said quietly, \"Lock Hoshina up and guard him so he can't run to Yanagisawa or spread the news that I'm not dead. You can send Lady Asagao home and put Hoshina in the special cell here in police headquarters. Order his colleagues not to tell anyone he's there.\" Sano added, \"Tell Fukida-san to look after Reiko.\"\n\nThe thought of his wife awakened guilt and longing in Sano." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 9 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She must have heard the news of his murder by now. He wished he could go to her so that she wouldn't have to suffer needlessly, but the most critical part of his task still lay ahead of him. \"I'll be back as soon as possible.\"\n\n\"You're going after Yanagisawa alone?\" Marume said, frowning in concern.\n\n\"I'll have to risk it,\" Sano said. \"Gathering our troops will take too much time and increase the chances that the Miyako spies will see me and report my resurrection to Yanagisawa.\"\n\nSano and Marume bowed to each other, their glances conveying wishes for mutual good luck. Then Sano opened the door and stole away into the night." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "hey can u write four sentences more sentences? like Laura Joh Rowland but Sano Ichiro 5 style. btw this is from middle of a story" }, { "from": "human", "value": "After an empty, timeless interval, Reiko stirred awake." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The windows framed pale squares of dawn light; her maids lay asleep on a futon beside hers. At first she didn't know where she was. Heavy lassitude filled her body; her head throbbed; her eyes burned. She had a vague sense that something awful had happened." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then she remembered. She was in Miyako and Sano was dead. Reiko closed her eyes; more tears leaked through the swollen lids. She wanted to go back to sleep. She wanted to die." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yet something deep within Reiko would not let her give up so easily." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her husband had been murdered. This was an intolerable outrage. Now fury cut through Reiko's pain like a blade lancing a wound. She must avenge Sano's death." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Until she did, she would neither rest nor succumb to grief. She hoped more than ever that she was pregnant, because then a part of Sano would survive him. And she could not let their child grow up knowing that its father's murderer had gone free.\n\nDetermination gave Reiko strength, and she sat up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Vertigo spun the room around her. Breathing deeply, she waited for the after-effects of the sleeping potion to pass. She began planning what to do. Before she could avenge Sano's death, she had to solve the murder case in order to learn who had killed him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But serious obstacles loomed ahead of her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had no authority to investigate crimes; hence, the Imperial Palace was off-limits to her. She couldn't expect help from Marume and Fukida because they were under no obligation to obey her orders. They'd accepted her participation in Sano's work out of duty to him, but they didn't really approve of her. In fact, they might decide to take the responsibility of solving the case and avenging Sano's death upon themselves and send her home." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then a plan sprang into Reiko's mind." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It involved great potential danger and depended on the cooperation of someone with little reason to cooperate, but there seemed no other way." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko rose on shaky legs." }, { "from": "human", "value": "One of the maids awakened, saw her, and said, \"Mistress, what are you doing?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm going out,\" Reiko said.\n\n\"But you need rest. You must come back to bed. Please—\"\n\nReiko silenced the maid with a glance that threatened unspeakable punishment to anyone who tried to stop her. \"I'm going out,\" she repeated. \"Help me wash and dress.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing buddy needed! six sentences more in Laura Joh Rowland's voice. Sano Ichiro 5 genre. this is from a bigger story btw" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano crouched in the underbrush beneath tall cedars, gazing up a steep dirt road at a mansion that stood behind a plank fence in the hills north of Miyako. Dew drenched his trousers. Early morning mist drifted over the woods, diffused the daylight spreading across the sky, and obscured his view of the city. A shrill chorus of birds rose in the treetops.\n\nFrom a distance, the house appeared unoccupied. The second-story windows visible above the fence were shuttered, and during the hour since Sano had arrived, he'd observed the property from all angles without seeing any sign of activity." }, { "from": "human", "value": "However, the gate bore the spiral crest that Yoriki Hoshina had described while giving directions to the mansion, and Sano could feel Chamberlain Yanagisawa's nearness like a warning tingle in his spirit." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'passed' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now he moved cautiously uphill through the woods.\n\nThe closest other houses lay far above and below on the hillside, and the main road passed to the east; Sano knew because he'd already scouted the area and discovered that Yanagisawa had chosen an isolated place for his secret activities. Sano paused at the edge of the level clearing where the mansion stood. The fence was some fifteen paces away. Through the cracks between the planks Sano saw a human shape move past: a patrolling guard. After a short interval a larger figure passed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano timed the guards' routine by counting silently as he watched them circle around again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Feeling the strain of an eventful, sleepless night and the long ride from the city, he mustered his flagging energy.\n\nHe waited for the right moment, then sped over to the fence. He climbed it and balanced on top. With a quick glance, he took in the scene below: a garden of shrubs, boulders, and grass outside a rustic house with latticed windows and half-timbered walls. He heard footsteps on the gravel path that bordered the garden. Here came a samurai whom he recognized as one of Yanagisawa's bodyguards." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano jumped down in front of him. The guard grunted in surprise. When he reached for his sword, Sano struck him hard in the face. The guard reeled backward, crashed to the ground, and lay still.\n\nMore footsteps signaled the approach of the second guard. Sano ducked behind a boulder." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He watched the man come upon his comrade's body and squat to examine it. Sano sprang out and kicked the second guard on the chin, knocking him unconscious. He used the guards' sashes to bind their hands and feet, then crammed their socks into their mouths as gags. His pulse racing, he checked the grounds for more guards. He prayed that he wouldn't have to kill anyone. Although violence was a samurai's natural domain and an inevitable part of Sano's work, every death he caused haunted him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There were no other guards outside the house." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano slipped quietly in the back door. Tiptoeing along dim corridors, he peered into the kitchen, reception room, and study, all furnished with the simple elegance of a wealthy samurai's summer home, all unoccupied. In the front entryway he found a third guard seated against the wall, asleep. Sano stole up to the guard, grasped his neck, and pressed on the main blood vessels. With a jerk and a whimper, the guard passed from sleep to unconsciousness. Sano quickly tied and gagged the guard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He crept up the stairs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "On the second floor, he found another corridor. Near the end was an open door from which light spilled. Sano drew his sword. As he moved closer, he heard violent coughing. He stood to one side of the door and peered through it into a bedchamber. The light of a hanging lantern glowed on gilt murals and lacquered furniture." }, { "from": "human", "value": "On a futon in the center, Chamberlain Yanagisawa crouched on knees and elbows, retching into a basin." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'again' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He wore a white silk under-kimono. His complexion was a ghastly shade of gray, his expression agonized. Again and again he retched, producing merely a thin drool that ran down his chin. At last he fell back on the bed, gasping.\n\nSano entered the room, nonplussed because he'd never seen Yanagisawa in less than perfect health and had expected to find the chamberlain either asleep or celebrating the downfall of his rival. What was wrong with him?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "At the sound of Sano's footsteps, Yanagisawa turned his head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He saw Sano. \"You,\" he said in a tone of terrified disbelief." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Pushing himself upright, he shouted, \"Guards!\"\n\nTo Sano's relief, no one came. \"All your men are incapacitated at the moment,\" he said, advancing on Yanagisawa. For once, the balance of power was weighted on his side. The knowledge elated Sano. \"It's just you and me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The chamberlain gulped as if he might get sick again, but he lurched to his feet and faced Sano with courage rooted in arrogance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What are you doing here?\" he demanded." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've come to talk about your sabotage of my investigation into Left Minister Konoe's murder,\" Sano said. \"You thought you could solve the case yourself, impress the shogun, and destroy me at the same time, didn't you?\"\n\nYanagisawa ignored the question; he seemed not to have heard it. He said, \"How did you find me?\"\n\n\"Yoriki Hoshina gave me directions,\" Sano said.\n\n\"Hoshina? He told you I was in Miyako?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The disbelief in Yanagisawa's voice was even more pronounced than when Sano had appeared before him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He sent you here?\" The chamberlain shook his head in vehement denial. \"No. He couldn't have.\"\n\n\"He did.\" Confusion halted Sano a few steps away from Yanagisawa. Something was wrong with this conversation. Why was Yanagisawa more disconcerted to learn how he'd been discovered than surprised to see Sano alive?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Didn't you receive a report of my murder at the Imperial Palace?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa took a step toward Sano, moving carefully, as if in pain, his expression unfathomable. \"Where is Hoshina?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"In a safe place,\" Sano said, increasingly perplexed. Yanagisawa must have been waiting for the news. Surely one of his agents would have rushed it to him. \"I put Hoshina under protection after I convinced him to tell me about your plot against me.\"\n\nA ragged laugh issued from Yanagisawa. Again he shook his head, but this time at some private, bitter joke." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He didn't even try to deny the existence of a plot." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As Sano tried to make sense of the chamberlain's reaction, various aspects of the situation that hadn't seemed directly related came together for him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Aisu's presence in the palace, Yanagisawa's illness, and the scheme his enemy had previously used added up to a startling picture.\n\n\"You were there with Aisu, weren't you?\" Sano said, dazzled by enlightenment. \"You forged the message from the emperor that brought me to the palace. You and Aisu lay in wait, planning to arrest the killer and take credit for solving the murder case after I was dead—the same trick you tried when I ambushed the Lion. But something went wrong. The killer attacked you and Aisu instead of me. It was you two that I heard crying out right before the spirit cry. Somehow you escaped, and the only harm you suffered is sickness from the after-effects of exposure to the force of kiai.\"\n\nClutching his stomach, the chamberlain winced. He dropped to his knees on the futon." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His eyes, with their dark, liquid irises and blood-veined whites, watched Sano intently." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'yanagisawa' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano was disturbed to realize how close his own scheme had come to failing. Yanagisawa might have sent someone to track him down and stop him before he got this far. \"You weren't surprised to see me alive,\" Sano said, \"because even though you heard about my death, you knew the truth—that Aisu was the killer's victim, not I. You must have been waiting for Hoshina to come so you could plan what to do next.\" Yet an important question remained. \"How did you set up my murder?\"\n\nYanagisawa suddenly lunged toward the head of the bed beneath him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He thrust his hand under the futon." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano leapt forward and jabbed the point of his sword against Yanagisawa's throat. The chamberlain cried out in alarm. His hand jerked up, holding a dagger that he'd obviously meant to hurl at Sano. He fell on his side, straining away from the sword.\n\n\"Drop the dagger,\" Sano ordered, his heart hammering in delayed panic. \"Drop it, or I'll kill you!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Fear shone in Yanagisawa's eyes. He lay rigid, knees drawn up, awkwardly supporting his body on his left hand, the dagger extended in his right hand. But his mouth twisted in an insolent smile.\n\n\"You won't kill me,\" he said in a breathy, corrosive voice. \"You hate to kill, and you think it's because you're so noble, so benevolent, that taking a life is beneath you.\" He uttered a derisive snort of laughter." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But I know the truth. You're not only an incompetent detective who fell into the trap I set for you, you're a coward. You're afraid of what will happen if you kill the shogun's second-in-command. You're incapable of looking me in the eye and cutting my throat!\"\n\nIndeed, Sano had spoken his threat merely to frighten Yanagisawa into obedience; he'd had no real intention of killing. But a sudden fury swept over him. That Yanagisawa should insult his professional ability and his honor! For more than two years, Sano had endured the chamberlain's physical and verbal attacks. He'd stifled the urge to retaliate because of his duty to respect the shogun's second-in-command, and because Yanagisawa had the power to destroy his family." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yet now, in the heat of rage that had built to a critical point, he knew he could kill Yanagisawa and not care about the consequences." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'yanagisawa' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What he thought about Yanagisawa, but had never spoken before, exploded from him.\n\n\"You call me incompetent?\" he shouted. \"You, who couldn't find the Lion by yourself, and certainly wouldn't have accomplished anything on this investigation without help from Yoriki Hoshina and me!\"\n\nYanagisawa gaped in amazement at Sano's outburst. \"How dare you speak to me this way?\" Anger flushed his pale complexion." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Have you forgotten who I am?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You've forgotten that you're at my mercy,\" Sano retorted, jabbing his sword fiercely at Yanagisawa, who gasped and scuttled backward, still gripping the dagger. Sano advanced until he had Yanagisawa pinned against the wall. \"If you think I'm a coward, there's no bigger coward in the world than you! You send flunkies to assassinate me because you're afraid to do it yourself. You stab your enemies in the back because you haven't the courage to challenge them face to face!\"\n\n\"Shut up!\" Yanagisawa commanded.\n\nSano was shaking with righteous anger, exhilarated by the release of pent-up fury. \"Your way is to stab and hide, but I can make sure you won't live to do so ever again. Now drop the dagger, you corrupt, evil, back-stabbing, and cowardly disgrace to Bushido!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Bloodlust obliterated prudence. Sano's vision narrowed until all he could see was the hateful face of his enemy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His muscles tensed, ready to drive the sword deep into Yanagisawa's throat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa must have felt the increased pressure on the blade and realized what a state Sano was in, because horror replaced the insolence in his gaze. As they stared at each other, the moment stretched into a deadly space in time where the worst could happen.\n\nYanagisawa opened his hand and let the dagger fall.\n\nThe clatter it made hitting the floor was like a chunk of ice dropped into a hot porcelain bowl. The cold impact of reason shattered the murderous rage in Sano. The savage pleasure of holding Yanagisawa's life in his hands vanished." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He kicked away the dagger and eased his grip on his sword. What if he had killed the chamberlain?\n\nAcross his mind flashed images of himself standing over the bloody corpse of his enemy; his trial for murder; himself, Reiko, their entire families, and all their close associates marching to the public execution ground to die for his crime of high treason against the Tokugawa regime. Sano was horrified to know himself capable of an insanity where even honor mattered less than satisfying his anger.\n\nHe saw the same knowledge, and new respect, mirrored on Yanagisawa's face. Sano realized that Yanagisawa had never really feared him before, had always relied on the self-discipline that had kept him from striking back." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But this incident had destroyed Yanagisawa's belief that he could attack Sano without serious consequences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's better,\" Sano said. His voice had returned to its normal calm pitch, but in the wake of his rage, a heady sense of power remained. \"Now tell me how you set up my murder.\"\n\nYanagisawa glanced down at the blade that still impinged on his throat. \"Would you mind if I sat up first?\" His tone had a courteous entreaty with which he'd never before addressed Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Sano withdrew the sword just far enough so it was no longer touching him, Yanagisawa expelled a long, tremulous breath and gingerly eased himself upright. Sweat trickled in rivulets down his face. He said, \"The night of the shoshidai's banquet, Hoshina told me that Lady Asagao had admitted hating Left Minister Konoe and lied about where she was during his murder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I anticipated that you would search her chambers for evidence, so I had Hoshina get some robes of the type she wears, stain them with horse blood, and plant them there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The next morning, Hoshina held a secret interview with Lady Asagao. He informed her that you would be coming to talk to her, and he conveyed my orders that when you did, she should confess to the murder. He told her the story she should tell, and said she must convince you that she was guilty. She didn't want to do it, but Hoshina gave her my promise that if she cooperated, she would be pardoned later. If not—or if she told anyone what he'd said—she would be executed.\"\n\nNow Sano understood why Asagao had behaved so oddly, produced such a logical yet dubious confession, and seemed as terrified as determined to persuade him that she'd killed Konoe. Asagao had lied not to protect Emperor Tomohito and the Imperial Court, but to protect herself from the punishment with which Hoshina had threatened her.\n\n\"You manipulated me into making a false arrest,\" Sano said with a grudging admiration for Yanagisawa's cleverness. \"Hoshina pressured Left Minister Konoe's attendants into confirming the affair and the ladies-in-waiting into retracting Asagao's alibi. You planned to make your official appearance in Miyako after I was dead, take over the investigation, and catch the real killer. You picked Asagao for bait because she's so unlikely a suspect that I would look stupid for arresting her, although the law gave me no choice. You couldn't be satisfied with my death; you wanted to destroy my reputation, too.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" the chamberlain conceded reluctantly, \"Lady Asagao suited my purpose. But I didn't choose her for herself alone. I had to give the real murderer a reason to kill you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The connection between Lady Asagao's arrest and the killer's attack now became apparent to Sano." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hoshina didn't tell me that Right Minister Ichijo is a suspect because you believe he's the killer and you wanted to keep him to yourself. Lady Asagao is his daughter; her position as the emperor's chief consort gives Ichijo special influence over the Imperial Court, which he would lose if anything happened to her. You thought the arrest would make Ichijo desperate enough to try to save Asagao from execution by killing me, which would spare you the trouble.\"\n\nThe chamberlain said, \"When Hoshina sent you the forged message, he also sent anonymous ones to Right Minister Ichijo, Emperor Tomohito, Lady Jokyōden, and Prince Momozono, telling them you were coming to the palace.\"\n\nOf course, the devious Yanagisawa wouldn't stake his success on a gamble that Ichijo was indeed the killer, Sano thought; he'd hedged his bet by alerting the other suspects. Sano could think of reasons some of them might wish to eliminate the man in charge of the murder investigation.\n\n\"Those messages also specified the route that the palace guards would follow while escorting you through the imperial enclosure,\" Yanagisawa continued. \"I went there early with Aisu and my bodyguards to catch Ichijo in the act of murder and arrest him. When we were heading toward the spot where the guards were supposed to abandon you, I felt a strange vibration in the air. We saw an eerie light and heard loud breathing. I felt someone following us, and I was suddenly terrified. So were my men. I ordered everyone to stay together, but my bodyguards ran off. I followed Aisu to the imperial kitchens. And then...\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The muscles of Yanagisawa's throat contracted; he shuddered. \"Merciful gods, that scream. It knocked me flat. I couldn't move, couldn't do anything except lie there howling in pain while the terrible noise went on and on.\" The chamberlain took a deep breath, then said, \"Finally it stopped. My ears were ringing; I was trembling and sore and nauseated. I got up and found Aisu lying nearby. He was dead. Then the vibration started again. It was very faint, coming from between the buildings. The killer was there; I could feel him. He was getting ready to scream again and kill me.\"\n\nSano hadn't felt any vibration after the spirit cry, probably because he'd been too far away. Suddenly Yanagisawa began to laugh. Hysteria tinged his merriment." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'yanagisawa's' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What's so funny?\" Sano said, wondering if the spirit cry had demented Yanagisawa's mind.\n\n\"It's ironic. Do you know what saved me?\"\n\nMystified, Sano shook his head.\n\n\"You.\" Yanagisawa pointed at Sano. \"I heard you and your detectives talking. The vibration suddenly stopped. I saw a movement in the shadows, and I couldn't feel the killer anymore. You scared him away.\" Now Yanagisawa's humor faded into the glumness of defeat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You, of all people, saved my life.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Pity diluted Sano's animosity toward the chamberlain. To be rescued by the foe whose death he'd plotted—what a blow to his pride! \"Did you see the killer?\"\n\n\"No,\" Yanagisawa said. All the resistance had left him. He looked pale, sick, and broken. Perhaps he mourned the loss of Aisu." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Or was something else bothering him?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You referred to the killer as 'him,'\" Sano continued. \"Does that mean you think it was a man?\"\n\nYanagisawa shook his head. \"At the time, I thought of him—or her—as 'it.'\" He added, \"I caught up with my bodyguards outside the palace gate. We rode straight here. I asked them if they'd gotten a look at the killer. They said no.\"\n\n\"Unfortunately, the only other witness is dead,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But it's unlikely that more than one person has the power of kiai, so it was probably the same killer as in Left Minister Konoe's murder. The attack on you has cleared Lady Asagao and narrowed the field to four suspects. I can determine where each of them was last night.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How wonderful that my terrible experience was so helpful to your investigation,\" Yanagisawa said with a touch of his old sarcasm. Then an aggrieved expression came over his features. \"Why would the murderer want to kill me?\"\n\n\"That's a good question. The answer might provide a clue to the murderer's identity.\"\n\n\"I suppose you're going to place me under guard in some secret place until your work in Miyako is finished,\" Yanagisawa said. \"Then you'll take me back to Edo and tell the shogun what I've done. His Excellency will be so furious that I deceived him and tried to ruin the investigation he ordered that he'll believe whatever you say about me. No doubt Yoriki Hoshina will be glad to corroborate your story in exchange for a pardon.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "A grim, desolate note inflected Yanagisawa's voice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'll lose my post, and probably my life.\"\n\nSano had come here intending to do exactly as Yanagisawa had described. It was what Yanagisawa deserved, and would rid him of the chamberlain's interference. But a strange, fleeting sensation came over him, like the invisible touch of ancestral spirits returning for Obon. Sano found himself thinking that fate had brought him and Yanagisawa together for some important purpose, that there was a reason for the way things had turned out, and he would regret following his planned course of action. Sano frowned, puzzling over the bizarre omen." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Had his own mind been affected by the spirit cry?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yet an instinct stronger than common sense urged him to obey intuition.\n\nHe said to Chamberlain Yanagisawa, \"Yes, I could destroy you, but instead, I'm going to offer you a deal.\"\n\nYanagisawa's brows rose in astonishment; then he narrowed his eyes suspiciously.\n\n\"If you'll agree to a truce between us and help me solve the case,\" Sano said, \"then I won't report your sabotage to the shogun.\"\n\nYanagisawa gave an incredulous laugh. \"You're not serious.\"\n\n\"Indeed I am,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I want information you have. You want to be a detective. If we work together, I can fulfill the shogun's orders, and you can share the credit.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "From the opaque look in the chamberlain's eyes, Sano knew Yanagisawa was calculating the benefits of the deal, the price of staying out of trouble, and how he could come out ahead.\n\n\"All right. We'll work together. But surely you understand what I can do to you if you allow me my freedom.\" Yanagisawa regarded Sano with resentment and scorn.\n\n\"And you understand what I'll do to you if you cross me,\" Sano said. The gaze he fixed upon Yanagisawa reminded the chamberlain how close he'd come to death tonight. It promised that next time Sano wouldn't control his temper." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No matter where you hide or how many guards you have, I will get to you, Sano thought, and I will show no mercy." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa stared, appalled, then nodded in resignation. \"Very well, sōsakan Sano. A truce it is.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Hey can you write like Laura Joh Rowland in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre and use whatever I write as a jumping off point? This is from a longer work so some stuff might reference earlier chapters." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko took a bath that rinsed away tears and restored strength; heavy makeup covered her puffy eyelids and mottled complexion. She pinned up her hair, which she would later cut off and put in Sano's coffin as a token of her fidelity, and dressed in a pale gray silk kimono with a pattern of summer grasses because she hadn't had time to buy drab mourning robes. Then she ordered her palanquin bearers to take her to the Imperial Palace.\n\nOut in the city, however, sorrow nearly defeated Reiko. As she rode through Miyako in her palanquin, the bright sunshine, colorful shops, and busy crowds seemed unreal. It was as if the death of the man she loved had left no mark upon the world. Worse, Reiko couldn't shake the feeling that Sano was still alive. Whenever she spied a samurai of his age and build, her heart leapt. Then, after she saw it wasn't Sano, fresh despair crushed her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Tears stung her eyes; she dabbed them dry to avoid ruining her makeup, and closed the palanquin's windows." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At last Reiko arrived in the quadrangle of the Palace of the Abdicated Emperor. As she disembarked from her palanquin, Lady Jokyōden came to meet her.\n\n\"Greetings, Lady Sano,\" Jokyōden said. Her face was impassive, her posture regal. She bowed in a cool, formal manner. \"Please accept my sincere condolences on your loss.\"\n\n\"A thousand thanks.\" Reiko fought to steady her trembling voice, because a display of emotion would shame her and offend this woman who obviously didn't want her here.\n\n\"I did not expect to see you again,\" Jokyōden said.\n\n\"You asked me to come,\" Reiko reminded her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mild surprise lifted Jokyōden's painted brows. \"So I did." }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<EMBED THIS>>: \"I did take advantage of Lady Asagao's trust. It turned out to be a terrible mistake.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But that was before yesterday's events proved that you were no friend to me and a danger to the Imperial Court. When we talked before, I guessed that you wanted to help your husband by questioning me about Left Minister Konoe's murder. I was intrigued by you, and decided that it wouldn't hurt to further our acquaintance because you seemed capable of little harm.\n\n\"But you had the gall to search for evidence in private quarters. Your discovery led to the arrest of the emperor's consort by your husband, who chose to make a quick end to his work by persecuting an innocent woman.\" Jokyōden's tone was hard, unforgiving. \"How you can presume to come here now is beyond my comprehension.\"\n\n\"I want to apologize,\" Reiko said humbly. \"I did take advantage of Lady Asagao's trust. It turned out to be a terrible mistake.\" Yet Reiko also wanted to counter Jokyōden's criticism." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But a murder investigation often requires devious means to serve justice. My husband arrested Lady Asagao instead of immediately looking elsewhere for the killer because it was his duty to charge her with murder after she confessed.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko couldn't keep the bitterness out of her voice. \"He paid for my mistake and his actions with his life.\"\n\nPity softened Jokyōden's expression, though she remained aloof. \"I regret that you've suffered,\" she said. \"However, I presume you have some other purpose for coming here besides discussing past events. What do you want from me?\"\n\n\"I want you to help me find out who killed my husband,\" Reiko said.\n\n\"I see.\" The noncommittal reply carried a strange inflection, as though Jokyōden had half expected Reiko's request, but couldn't quite believe she'd actually heard it. Then she brought her hands together in front of her, fingertips pointed outward and touching. \"Don't you think the bakufu will assign someone to investigate the matter?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes. But I want to finish my husband's work and learn the truth about his death.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko forbore to mention that she intended to execute Sano's killer with her own hands.\n\n\"While I sympathize with your wishes,\" Jokyōden said, \"investigating crimes is hardly within your purview anymore. Your husband's status gave you freedom and power that you no longer have.\" She said gently, \"May I offer my advice? You are young; time will heal your pain. Your family will eventually arrange another marriage for you; with luck, you'll find love and happiness again. Accept reality, go on with your life, and let the authorities handle official business.\"\n\nWild desperation filled Reiko as she realized Jokyōden wasn't going to help her. The suggestion that she would forget Sano and should abandon her quest for justice infuriated her. She retorted, \"I doubt that you've ever accepted fate or left any business you care about to others. Shall I do as you say, not as you do?\"\n\nJokyōden stared, affronted by Reiko's blunt speech. Then she shook her head and smiled in self-mockery. Her rueful gaze conveyed a new respect for Reiko." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I see that hypocrisy cannot persuade you,\" she said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko took this response as a sign that Jokyōden might relent. She pressed on: \"I realize I'm powerless without my husband. But you command much authority in the Imperial Court. You can take me where I need to go in the palace. You can introduce me to witnesses and ask them to cooperate with me. You can provide information I need.\" Belatedly, Reiko feared that she sounded too presumptuous. \"If you choose to grant my request,\" she added.\n\nFrowning, Jokyōden interlaced her fingers and looked down at them for a moment. \"What you do not seem to realize is that my interests run opposite to yours. You are asking me to open the palace to you, for your purpose of incriminating someone here. Since Lady Asagao has been proven innocent, the array of suspects has narrowed to those who were in the palace last night. That includes the emperor. Do you expect me to betray my own son for your sake?\" Incredulity edged Jokyōden's calm voice. \"And I am still a suspect. Would you expect me to lead you to evidence of my own guilt?\"\n\nReiko had known that Jokyōden was still a suspect." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'jokyōden' 3 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She also knew the danger of involving a suspect in her investigation, especially one as intelligent as Jokyōden. To protect herself, her son, and the court, Jokyōden could destroy clues, plant false evidence, and order witnesses to lie. Reiko would never be sure whether she was helping or sabotaging. And there was a possibility of more extreme treachery if Reiko enlisted Jokyōden's aid. Maybe the killer had feared that Sano wouldn't believe Asagao was guilty and had halted his investigation by slaying him. If Jokyōden was the killer, she might do the same to Reiko. Working with Reiko would give her plenty of opportunity.\n\nHowever, Reiko had no choice except to take the risk. \"Before my husband died, he said he had a feeling there was more to the murder case than was obvious. He thought there might be other suspects nobody knew about, and that one of them was more likely the killer than His Majesty the Emperor, Prince Momozono, or you. By helping me discover the truth, you could clear yourself and your son.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jokyōden regarded her skeptically." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She unlaced her hands and folded her arms." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I have no one else to turn to,\" Reiko said, abandoning logic in favor of an emotional appeal. She knelt before Jokyōden. \"If you won't help me, I'll have to go back to Edo without knowing who killed my husband, and depend on the bakufu to obtain justice for him. And I—I can't bear—\"\n\nAn upheaval of suppressed grief shattered Reiko's artificial poise. She thought of Sano, his voice, his smile, the scent and feel of him. She imagined the long years ahead without him. Desolation swept over her. She pressed a hand against her mouth to stifle a sob and tried to compose herself by focusing on her surroundings: the morning sunlight casting the shadows of buildings across the quadrangle; the bearers standing by her palanquin; the floral pattern woven into Jokyōden's azure silk robe.\n\nJokyōden watched her in silent speculation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Was she weighing sympathy for a bereaved widow against her loyalty to the Imperial Court?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Find a natural way to mention that My authority does not entitle me to let you roam around the palace or interrogate members of the court, but perhaps there is another way I can be of assistance, if you will accompany me on a short trip." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Was she thinking of what she and Reiko shared as women unique in society and how she could honor their comradeship while protecting her kin? Or was she a murderess considering how to exploit the situation to her own advantage?\n\nThen Jokyōden said, \"My authority does not entitle me to let you roam around the palace or interrogate members of the court, but perhaps there is another way I can be of assistance, if you will accompany me on a short trip.\"\n\nShe spoke as though leery of committing herself, and her shrewd gaze held no warmth, but Reiko was too overjoyed to mind her manner.\n\n\"A million thanks,\" Reiko exclaimed, fighting tears of gratitude. \"You won't regret your decision.\"\n\nJokyōden gave her an enigmatic smile. \"I sincerely hope that neither of us will,\" she said.\n\nReiko chose to ignore the implicit warning in the words." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She didn't know what had finally swayed Jokyōden in her favor." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She could not afford to care." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Hey can you write like Laura Joh Rowland in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre and use whatever I write as a jumping off point? This is from a longer work so some stuff might reference earlier chapters." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Miyako's textile industry was centered in a district known as Nishijin—\"Western Camp\"—named for the army encampment located there during the civil wars." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The main avenues of Kuramaguchi and Imadegawa on north and south, and Horikawa and Senbon on east and west, bounded a grid of narrower lanes that ran through Nishijin. Down these flowed stinking open sewers. Workers carried bolts of cloth and baskets containing silk cocoons. Women sprinkled water on thresholds to keep down the dust. Outside shops, hawkers invited customers to view shelves of bright fabrics. The rattle-clack of many looms resounded.\n\nA procession of imperial guards and Tokugawa troops escorting two palanquins halted in the middle of a block. Reiko stepped out of her palanquin and Lady Jokyōden from the other. Together they walked to a shop." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Unlike the establishments on either side, whose open storefronts were filled with customers, this one stood deserted, its tall wooden doors closed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What are we doing here?\" Reiko asked.\n\nJokyōden said, \"This shop belonged to Left Minister Konoe. He purchased it some years ago.\"\n\n\"What for?\" Reiko said, baffled. The noble class didn't engage in trade, and she couldn't imagine Konoe wanting quarters in the noisy, dirty, and bustling textile district.\n\n\"He wanted privacy that he couldn't get at home.\" Jokyōden unlocked the shop's doors, and Reiko followed her inside.\n\nHot, musty darkness engulfed them. Jokyōden picked up a long wooden pole that stood near the entrance, pushed open the trap door of a skylight, then closed the doors. In the dust-flecked light from above, Reiko saw a room that had once been the display area of a textile business." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was empty, the floor littered with dead insects. She smelled mildew; sweat trickled down her temples. The ache of grief swelled in her. Would that she were here working with Sano instead of investigating his murder! She kept her misery at bay by speculating on why Left Minister Konoe had needed the privacy afforded by this shop.\n\nKonoe had been a metsuke spy. Had he bought the shop because he needed a place from which to conduct espionage? If so, he'd found the perfect location to live a secret life: conveniently near the palace, but on the other side of the class boundary, where he could be anonymous. And maybe this secret life was related to his murder." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include exactly 2 instance(s) of the word 'where'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With the purposeful stride of someone who knew where she was going, Jokyōden walked through an open doorway at the back of the room. Reiko joined her in a second room, where an abandoned loom stood, festooned with spiderwebs, faded threads clinging to its broken beams.\n\n\"How do you know about this place?\" Reiko asked.\n\nAnother door, this one closed, led to the rear of the shop. Jokyōden halted with her back against it and said, \"If I am to tell you, I must first have your promise that what I say will be kept in strict confidence.\"\n\nReiko hesitated, because although instinct told her that Jokyōden's answer might be important to her investigation, she didn't know whether she could honor such a bargain. Avenging Sano's death took priority over Jokyōden's wishes. If revealing later what Jokyōden told her would benefit her cause, then she must do it. Still, perhaps she could somehow manage to keep Jokyōden's secrets without jeopardizing her own mission." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I promise,\" she said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For a long interval, Jokyōden regarded her in silence. The room was dim and Jokyōden's face in shadow, so Reiko couldn't see her expression. The incessant clatter of looms from the adjacent shops echoed through the walls. Then Jokyōden said in a tone devoid of emotion, \"Left Minister Konoe and I were lovers at one time. We used to meet here, where no one who mattered would see us together.\"\n\nSurprise stunned Reiko. When she and Jokyōden had talked about the left minister two days ago, Jokyōden had betrayed no personal feelings toward him. Now Reiko felt a stab of apprehension as she wondered what else Jokyōden had concealed.\n\n\"When was this affair?\" she asked.\n\n\"Before Left Minister Konoe's death, obviously.\" With her sarcastic reply and forbidding tone, Jokyōden proclaimed that she didn't intend to elaborate on the subject." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She turned to open the door, then let Reiko into the shop's last room, which had once been the proprietor's living quarters." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Jokyōden opened the skylight and windows, Reiko saw a kitchen on one side, where a kettle sat on the hearth; shelves held a few pieces of crockery, parcels of tea, and dried fruit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "On the other side, a charcoal brazier stood beside a dingy futon on the frayed tatami; a pine table held a lamp; an umbrella leaned against the whitewashed plank wall." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The only item that reflected Konoe's noble rank was a desk made of dark teak with gold geometric inlays." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The windows overlooked an alley whose privy sheds and garbage bins sent foul odors into the room. Reiko couldn't imagine the elegant Jokyōden lying on that bed, in this dismal place.\n\n\"This is the one place I can show you that might contain clues about what the left minister did during the days just before he died, who he saw, or why someone wanted to kill him,\" Jokyōden said. Her dignified poise hid any shame she felt at bringing Reiko to the scene of her illicit romance. \"He sometimes kept personal papers here.\"\n\nHe'd kept very few things here, Reiko thought; hardly enough even for a quick tryst once in awhile. Then she noticed indented, rectangular shadows on the tatami where furniture had once stood, and hooks on the walls that might have held paintings or drapery. And she understood. The room had been comfortably furnished when Jokyōden and Konoe had come here together. Konoe must have removed unneeded furnishings because the affair had ended even before his death." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We always traveled here separately,\" Jokyōden said. \"Sometimes he would be writing when I arrived, and he always put the papers away in the desk. Perhaps they're still there.\"\n\nEven as Reiko knelt at the desk, questions burgeoned in her mind. Why had the affair ended, and when? Reiko remembered asking Jokyōden how she got along with Konoe, and Jokyōden's answer: \"We had no quarrels.\" But what if there had been a quarrel, one that had caused a breakup between Konoe and Jokyōden shortly before his death? Reiko thought about Lady Asagao's story of seduction by Konoe. If it was true, then perhaps his infidelity had angered Jokyōden. Earlier, Reiko had conjectured that the pair had clashed over imperial politics, but love gone bad was also a strong motive for murder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She looked up at Jokyōden, who stood by the window, looking outside." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sunlight slanted across her profile, glittering in her eye; a cold serenity masked her thoughts." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Fear turned the sweat on Reiko's skin into a film of ice water as she remembered Jokyōden closing the front doors and sealing them both in the shop." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Was it Jokyōden who had killed Konoe—and Sano? Had she arranged this trip for the purpose of eliminating a woman who sought to expose her guilt?\n\nThen Reiko dismissed her fear as ludicrous. She didn't really believe Jokyōden was a murderer, but even if she was, she wouldn't kill again here. There were people outside, including Reiko's guards; she couldn't get away with murdering Reiko. Still, Reiko's heart thudded as she examined the desk. A uniform coating of dust dulled the inlaid surface, and she hoped that this place had remained undisturbed since Konoe last came here. Her hands shook as she lifted the lid of the desk.\n\nInside, amid writing brushes, inkstones, and ribbons for binding scrolls, she found stacked papers, all blank." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Disappointment crushed Reiko. She pulled everything out of the desk, searched for scraps she'd missed, or hidden compartments, without success." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Work this phrase into your response organically: \"Who else besides you and the left minister knew about this place?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Konoe had apparently not left any writings here. As a metsuke spy, he would have taken care to conceal documents related to espionage for fear that his secret life would be exposed. Or had someone else removed things, careful not to leave signs of the disturbance?\n\nReiko looked up to see Jokyōden watching her. She said, \"Who else besides you and the left minister knew about this place?\"\n\n\"No one, as far as I know.\"\n\n\"When was the last time you came here?\"\n\n\"If you are asking if I have been here since the left minister died, the answer is no.\" Jokyōden turned back to the window." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yet maybe she'd come back after the murder, to take away personal items she'd left behind or anything else that revealed her relationship with the left minister." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko knew that the Imperial Court viewed adultery in much the same way as did society in general: Married men enjoyed the freedom to have affairs, but women paid dearly for sexual dalliance." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If Jokyōden's affair with Konoe had become public, the abdicated emperor would probably have divorced her; she'd have lost her authority over the court amid humiliating scandal.\n\nHowever, Reiko saw another reason for Jokyōden to remove papers from the desk, if they could implicate her in Konoe's murder. Such an intelligent woman would recognize the need to destroy evidence against her. Reiko wondered whether Jokyōden had brought her here while knowing she would find nothing. Had she pretended to help with the investigation so Reiko would think her innocent?\n\nPlagued by doubts, Reiko looked around the room for somewhere else to search. Her gaze lit on the charcoal brazier. Excitement quickened her pulse. She hardly dared to hope..." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She hurried to the brazier, a square wooden box with multiple slots in the top and three sides." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kneeling, she peered through the grate on the fourth side." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'paper' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Inside sat a metal pan containing ash, sooty coals, and a wad of partially burned paper. Reiko's heart leapt. Opening the grate, she lifted out the paper, heedless of the ash that smudged her fingers. She peeled away delicate black layers. Only the innermost had survived the fire. Darkened at the edges, it was a fragment from a page of scribbled notes. An inked circle surrounded the name Ibe Masanobu. This, Reiko knew, was the daimyo of Echizen Province. Other notations read: \"Site surveillance? Watch night movements.\" \"Arrived Month 3, Day 17.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "CONTINUE STORY SEGMENT. PARAMETERS: 12 sentences sentences, Laura Joh Rowland style, Sano Ichiro 5 genre. NOTE: PART OF LARGER NARRATIVE." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Well, Soakan-sama, I am most surprised and glad to see you alive,\" said Shoshidai Matsudaira. \"And Honorable Chamberlain Yanagisawa, it is certainly a privilege to welcome you to Miyako.\"\n\nAfter their confrontation in Yanagisawa's hideout in the hills, Sano had told the chamberlain how they would make their deal official. While Yanagisawa dressed, Sano had untied the three guards; then the five of them had ridden into Miyako together. Now they were seated in the reception room of the shoshidai's mansion. Mastsudaira, kneeling on the dais, looked confused by the simultaneous appearance of Sano, whom he'd believed dead, and Yanagisawa, his cousin the shogun's exalted second-in-command.\n\n\"In the confusion of last night's events at the Imperial Palace, mistakes were made.\" Sano spoke from his place below the dais to the shoshidai's left. \"It was actually one of my retainers who died, not myself.\" This was the story that Sano had concocted to explain the murder of Aisu. \"I shall now do everything possible to resolve any problems created by the erroneous report of my death.\"\n\n\"Very well.\" The shoshidai sounded unconvinced, but as Sano had anticipated, he was too timid to raise questions." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa sat at the shoshidai's right, with his three bodyguards behind him." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Somewhere in your response, you need to say: \"He's a most capable detective who has been assisting the sōsakan-sama. But Hoshina-san seems to have disappeared.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Clad in rich silk robes, he looked his usual self, although his complexion still had a sickly gray pallor. \"I've been traveling through Omi Province on business for the shogun. Since that business is finished, I have decided to lend my assistance to the sōsakan-sama's investigation into the murders at the Imperial Palace.\"\n\n\"That is very generous of you.\" The shoshidai smiled, obviously deceived by Yanagisawa's genial manner.\n\nBut Sano had perceived the resentful undertone in Yanagisawa's voice, and knew how humiliating it was for the chamberlain to bow to blackmail. \"Yes, his help will constitute a major improvement.\" Over his sabotage, Sano thought, glancing at Yanagisawa, who shot him a covert, venomous look.\n\n\"My troops, clerks, and other staff are at your service,\" said the shoshidai.\n\n\"Since I'm traveling with a very small retinue,\" Yanagisawa said, \"that is much appreciated.\"\n\nSano knew he would have to keep a close watch in case Yanagisawa recruited new henchmen to work against him.\n\n\"I wish that Yoriki Hoshina, my senior police commander, were here,\" the shoshidai said. \"He's a most capable detective who has been assisting the sōsakan-sama. But Hoshina-san seems to have disappeared.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A pity,\" said Yanagisawa." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Subtle menace shaded the chamberlain's voice. Sano hoped he could keep Hoshina hidden long enough to finish the case. However, that would still leave the problem of what to do with Hoshina afterward. He couldn't protect the yoriki from Yanagisawa's wrath indefinitely.\n\n\"Of course you'll be needing a place to live while in Miyako,\" the shoshidai said to Yanagisawa. \"I regret that Nijō Castle is undergoing a major renovation at the moment, but you can stay at Nijō Manor with the sōsakan-sama.\"\n\n\"The renovation is suspended as of now,\" Yanagisawa said, and Sano knew how much he wanted to avoid sharing the same roof. \"I'll move into Nijō Castle at once.\"\n\n\"Well, all right.\" The shoshidai sounded doubtful, but not even the shogun's cousin dared challenge the most powerful man in Japan.\n\n\"We'll be going now,\" Sano said. \"We have much work to do, and I must brief the Honorable Chamberlain on the status of the investigation.\"\n\nOutside, they mounted their horses in the narrow lane crowded with the strolling dignitaries of Miyako's administrative district." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Low clouds hid the distant hills, but the sun had burned the morning mist from the sky; heat shimmered in the air." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano felt sweaty, rank, and in dire need of a bath." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa said in a surly voice, \"I suppose you found that farce of cooperation and friendly camaraderie amusing.\"\n\n\"Not so much amusing as necessary.\" Sano hoped that making their partnership public would force Yanagisawa to behave honorably, although he had his doubts.\n\n\"As for briefing me,\" Yanagisawa said, \"that's unnecessary because I already know everything you know. And I've told you everything Hoshina withheld from you.\"\n\nThey'd talked during the ride to town, but Sano didn't believe Yanagisawa had really made a full disclosure. \"I want your metsuke dossiers on the Imperial Court,\" Sano said, having guessed that Yanagisawa had plundered the records in Edo before he'd read them. \"I also want the material you took from Left Minister Konoe's office.\"\n\n\"Fine. I'll send it to Nijō Manor.\" Yanagisawa sat astride his horse, with his bodyguards flanking him. \"That's all I'm willing to do for today. I still feel very unwell, and I need to rest. Farewell until tomorrow.\"\n\nThe chamberlain and his guards rode away. Sano set off toward Nijō Manor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The first thing he needed to do was to see Reiko." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Second, he must assign men to spy on Yanagisawa." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Narrative Continuation Protocol:\nQuantity: 5 sentences\nStyle: Laura Joh Rowland\nGenre: Sano Ichiro 5\nContext: Part of larger work" }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Reiko rode up to Nijō Manor in her palanquin, Detective Fukida was waiting for her outside the gate." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Where have you been?\" he cried.\n\n\"I've been investigating my husband's murder,\" Reiko said, climbing out of the palanquin. Afire with excitement, she explained how she and Lady Jokyōden had gone to Left Minister Konoe's secret house in the textile district, then showed Fukida the scrap of notes she'd found in the charcoal brazier. \"Look. I'm sure this means the left minister was spying on Lord Ibe, who might be connected to the murders.\"\n\nFukida frowned. \"You went to the palace?\" he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"On your own?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes. Lady Jokyōden told me that Lord Ibe has a house in the cloth dyers' district where he stays when he visits Miyako. We must go there right now!\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'fukida' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't think that's such a good idea,\" Fukida said. \"Perhaps we should wait.\"\n\n\"For what?\" Reiko said, perplexed, then incredulous. \"Do you intend to sit idle while your master's killer goes free?\"\n\nInstead of meeting Reiko's eyes, Fukida gazed around the bright, bustling street." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The sōsakan-sama told me to watch over you. I must obey his orders. I can't take you to Lord Ibe's house or anywhere else that might be dangerous.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Then go yourself,\" Reiko said.\n\n\"I can't leave you.\"\n\n\"Where is Detective Marume? He could go.\"\n\nFukida looked so miserable that Reiko pitied him, but she was angry at his refusal to help her avenge Sano's death. \"All right,\" she said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If you won't take me, then I'll go alone.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Essential phrase to include: \"You're not to take her on any more trips without my permission.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm sorry, but I can't allow that.\" Fukida turned to Reiko's palanquin bearers and guards and said, \"You're not to take her on any more trips without my permission.\"\n\nThe bearers and guards bowed, chorusing, \"Yes, Fukida-san.\"\n\n\"You can't do this!\" Reiko cried, infuriated.\n\n\"Please go inside, Honorable Lady Reiko,\" said Fukida." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She glared at him in helpless rage." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tears rushed to her eyes as the grief she'd suppressed all morning resurfaced. Head high, she entered the inn, walked into her room, and shut the door so hard that the frame rattled. Alone, she fought the impulse to lie down and weep. She changed her silk kimono for a simple blue cotton one, and her high-soled shoes for comfortable straw sandals. She strapped a dagger to her arm under her sleeve." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then she peered out the windows and door to look for Fukida. He was nowhere in sight; he'd underestimated her determination. Reiko slipped out of Nijō Manor and began walking.\n\nThe hot sun beat down on her. Soon she was drenched in sweat and longing for a cool drink, but ladies didn't carry money, and as a stranger in town, Reiko had no credit with Miyako vendors." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Samurai on horseback and peasants carrying loads of supplies jostled past her through narrow streets lined with shops. Dust, horse manure, and filthy water from open drains soiled her shoes and hem. She avoided looking other pedestrians in the eye, praying that no one would accost her. Something in her expression must have warned off predators, because although some men leered, they left her alone. Perhaps they thought she was a madwoman." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Exhausted and footsore, she finally reached the cloth dyers' district northeast of Sanjo Bridge.\n\nIn workshops, craftsmen stirred steaming dye vats and painted designs on silk. Reiko followed a path beside the Kamo River, seeking Lord Ibe's house. She knew that while the feudal lords occupied grand estates in Edo and their provinces, Tokugawa law forbade them to maintain residences in Miyako. Therefore, a daimyo who desired a home here would avoid the authorities' notice by keeping a modest, discreet establishment." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko hadn't asked how Lady Jokyōden knew where Lord Ibe's illegal residence was. She would not allow herself to consider the possibility that the notes she'd pinned her hopes on were irrelevant to the murders and she'd come all this way for nothing.\n\nAlong the path on Reiko's right, textile shops crowned the embankment; drying cloth flapped on roofs and balconies. On her left, dyers rinsed long, brilliantly colored fabrics in the river, turning clear water into a sea of painted flowers, landscapes, and geometric designs. Reiko followed Jokyōden's directions up a path leading inland to a neighborhood of narrow, two-story houses behind high fences." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maids and porters hurried down the streets; bearers carried passengers in palanquins." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lord Ibe's house was the second to last on its block, behind a double gate suspended between two square pillars capped with a gabled roof." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko circled the block, covertly inspecting the area. Other houses showed signs of life—maids shaking brooms out windows, children playing in front—but bamboo blinds covered the balconies of Lord Ibe's place. During an hour of watching, Reiko didn't see anyone enter or leave. Nervously, she walked up to the gates and knocked on the wooden planks.\n\nNo answer came. Reiko knocked again, louder." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She heard the rasp of a sliding door, and footsteps. Then came the metallic scrape of a bar drawing back; the gates parted to reveal a man dressed in a short brown cotton kimono. He had the thick build and close-cropped hair of a laborer. Suspicion darkened his pockmarked features as he looked Reiko up and down.\n\n\"Yes?\" he growled." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'reiko' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His unfriendly manner and disreputable appearance intimidated Reiko. \"I—I'm looking for Lord Ibe,\" she said.\n\n\"Nobody by that name here.\"\n\nThe man started to close the gates. \"Wait,\" Reiko said, pushing against them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know this house belongs to Lord Ibe. I must speak to him.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A lascivious smile came over the man's face. \"You're wrong,\" he said, \"but maybe you should come in anyway. We could have fun with a pretty girl like you.\" He reached over and chucked Reiko under the chin.\n\nShe recoiled at the liberty. \"Who are you?\" she asked, trying to sound stern." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"None of your business. Who do you think you are?\" The man scowled, obviously displeased that a woman should dare to question him.\n\n\"Who's in there?\" Reiko persisted. \"What's going on?\"\n\n\"Get lost, girl.\"\n\nThe man slammed the gates shut." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko heard the bar slide into place." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'house' 3 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She looked up at the house in desperation. The man had acted as if he had something to hide. She had to know what Left Minister Konoe had discovered here, because this represented her only chance to solve Sano's murder. But how could she, a woman alone, find out the secrets of the house?\n\nReiko hurried to the gate of the house behind Lord Ibe's and knocked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A maid answered. \"Yes, madam?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Excuse me,\" Reiko said, arranging her face in an apologetic smile, \"but I wonder if I could use your place of relief?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This was the polite term for the privy. \"I'm sorry to bother you, but it's an emergency...\"\n\n\"Yes, of course.\" The maid smiled back, eager to help a lady in need. \"Come this way.\"\n\nShe led Reiko around the house, into a narrow backyard that contained a fireproof storehouse and a privy shed.\n\n\"Thank you, you're so kind.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Feigning casual interest, Reiko pointed at the daimyo's house and said, \"Who lives over there?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Some men... I don't know who they are.\"\n\n\"How many?\"\n\nPuzzled, the maid shook her head. \"They keep to themselves.\" She opened the privy door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If you need anything, just call.\"\n\n\"Many thanks.\" Reiko went into the privy, waited until the maid was gone, then came out again. She surveyed the yard. Along the fence lay rakes, baskets, urns, a wooden barrel. Quietly Reiko overturned the barrel, stood on it, and peered over the fence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She saw a yard similar to the one she was in, with a storehouse and privy. Wooden bars shielded the back windows of Lord Ibe's house. As Reiko watched, the door opened, and a muscular man dressed in a loincloth emerged. His body was covered with tattoos, a mark of the gangster class. Leaving the door ajar, he went into the privy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That open door exerted a powerful, tempting pull on Reiko." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Spurning caution, she started to climb the fence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When her long, full robe hindered her, she impatiently tied the skirts around her hips. She eased herself down on the other side, then tiptoed across Lord Ibe's yard. The presence of a gangster and a peasant ruffian in a daimyo's house signaled trouble, and Reiko had no doubt that the left minister's notes referred to their activities. Peeking in the back door, she saw a dim, vacant corridor with rooms opening off it. She glanced toward the privy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Grunts issued from the man inside. Reiko slipped through the door of the house and stood with her back pressed against the wall. Hearing male voices, she tensed.\n\nFootsteps creaked above the ceiling: The men were upstairs. Even armed with a dagger, Reiko had no desire to confront them alone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd thought that grief had put her beyond caring what happened to her, but now she regretted her impulsiveness; it was all too clear what men would do to a young female trespasser." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wanted to leave, but then she heard footsteps behind her, outside: The gangster was coming.\n\nReiko darted down the corridor and through the nearest door, into a storeroom crammed with boxes. Holding her breath, she waited until the man walked past. Planks squeaked as the gangster mounted the stairs. A bitter odor caught Reiko's attention." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She looked around, and when her eyes adjusted to the dimness, she saw wall racks full of spears, swords, and bows. Stacked wooden chests almost covered the floor. Curious now, Reiko lifted a lid. She found a suit of armor.\n\nUneasiness stirred within her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The odor grew stronger as she moved toward the door leading into the adjacent room." }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'reiko' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It held more chests. Reiko opened one, and her heart lurched. Inside lay a cache of arquebuses—long, tubular steel guns. Barrels, round wooden boxes, and square wicker baskets stood nearby. When Reiko pried the lid off a barrel, the smell billowed up into her face, smoky and acrid." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She dipped a finger into fine black granules. Though she'd never seen gunpowder before, she knew this must be it. In the boxes she found spherical iron bullets. The baskets contained arrows. Reiko wouldn't have been surprised to find swords and spears in a daimyo's house, though not in such huge quantity." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And guns were reserved for the sole use of the Tokugawa, but she'd just discovered enough weapons and ammunition to equip a small army.\n\nThe implications of the discovery stunned and enlightened Reiko. Left Minister Konoe must have watched men gathering at the house, bringing the arsenal. Surely this activity was the object of the surveillance mentioned in his notes. If Reiko was correct about the purpose of the weapons, then here was a secret that constituted the true motive for Konoe's murder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko hastened to the door, looked cautiously, and saw no one." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Even though the temptation to flee was overpowering, she forced herself to move down the corridor, toward a flight of stairs that led to the second story." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The voices sounded louder; Reiko discerned at least three different men speaking. Slowly she ascended the stairs, easing her weight down on the creaky planks. Fear nauseated her, and the sweat on her skin turned cold; she held herself rigid, fighting the sickness. Telling herself she must be strong for Sano, she climbed higher and saw another empty corridor that extended past more doors. The voices came from the second room on the right." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tiptoeing up the last steps, Reiko emerged into hot, stuffy air thick with tobacco smoke. Muddy daylight filtered through the balcony blinds and the paper walls of the corridor. Reiko crept to the doorway of the second room and listened.\n\n\"You shouldn't have been so rude,\" said a young man's worried voice. \"You made her suspicious.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There were murmurs of agreement. Then another man spoke with defensive belligerence: \"Who cares what some stupid woman thinks?\" Reiko recognized the voice of the fellow at the gate. \"She's probably just some whore that Lord Ibe uses when he's in town, and that's how she knows this is his house. Anyway, she's gone.\"\n\n\"You should never open the gate without looking to see who's there, Gorobei-san,\" another man said in cultured Miyako speech." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I thought it was Ikeda, with another load of weapons,\" Gorobei said sullenly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I already said I was sorry.\"\n\n\"I am afraid that this matter is far from done. You know how whores gossip. What if that one has clients in the bakufu and tells them there's something funny going on here? They could send troops to raid us.\"\n\n\"They won't bother,\" said a different voice. \"Even if they believe her, those bakufu bureaucrats are lazy.\"\n\n\"It was a mistake to use our master's place, even though he won't be back until winter,\" fretted the first man." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Well, where else could we go that's big enough, private enough, and right in town?\"\n\nThese two must be Lord Ibe's retainers, assigned to guard the property, Reiko realized. Instead, they'd taken advantage of his absence by turning the house into an armed fort.\n\n\"We shouldn't be doing this, it's too dangerous.\"\n\n\"I'm sick of your whining. Shut up!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The man with the cultured voice said, \"We've no more time for argument. We must figure out what to do so that Gorobei's carelessness won't jeopardize our mission.\"\n\nThe nature of that mission seemed obvious to Reiko. The conspirators were planning a military assault. She didn't think it involved feuding peasant gangs; that wouldn't have required illegal weapons, or interested the metsuke. The mission could be nothing less than a revolt against the Tokugawa." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This threat was the reason for the law that prevented daimyo from gathering troops and arms in Miyako—so they couldn't seize the old capital as the first step toward taking over Japan. Horror and elation filled Reiko as she realized that the conspiracy must include many people besides the ones here, at least one of whom was likely to be involved in Sano's murder.\n\nA sudden, ominous silence in the room alerted her. Then the man with the cultured voice said, \"There is someone else in the house.\"\n\nReiko froze, aghast." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How do you know?\" Gorobei asked.\n\n\"I can feel it.\"\n\n\"You're just nervous,\" said one of the guards. \"It's all in your imagination.\"\n\n\"After the unfortunate incident that just occurred, I refuse to take any chances. Come. We shall check downstairs.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko darted into the adjacent room, hid behind a cabinet, and watched the men file past the door." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required word frequency: 'three' (2x)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "First came a priest with a shaved head and athletic build, dressed in a saffron robe and carrying a spear. Then came three samurai, swords drawn, wearing the square Ibe crest on their robes: the guards. Gorobei, the gangster, and three more tough-looking peasants, all bearing stout clubs, and two shabbily attired samurai who appeared to be rōnin, followed. Their grim expressions told Reiko that they would kill her if they caught her. Heart pounding in panic, she rushed onto the balcony." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She pushed aside the bamboo blinds and looked outside.\n\nThe balcony overhung the side fence. Directly opposite stretched the balcony of the house next door. As Reiko climbed onto the rail, she heard the men moving about downstairs. She perched for a moment, then sprang with all her strength." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She sailed through the air like a large, awkward bird and landed on the other balcony, taking the impact on her knees and forearms to protect her womb." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Huddling there for a moment, she sobbed in relief. Then she rose and lowered herself over the rail to the ground and hurried in the direction of Nijō Manor.\n\nShe must tell Marume and Fukida what she'd seen in Lord Ibe's house and convince them to do something about it." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing buddy needed! six sentences more in Laura Joh Rowland's voice. Sano Ichiro 5 genre. this is from a bigger story btw" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Twilight had dissipated the worst heat of the day and dimmed the sky to misty gray when Reiko got back to Nijō Manor. She went to look for Detective Fukida, but neither he nor Sano's other men were in their quarters. Her maids had vanished, too. Covered with sweat and grime, hair disheveled, and weary to the bone, Reiko shut herself in her room to wait for Fukida because she couldn't go to the authorities by herself; they probably wouldn't even give a woman an audience. She drank water and wiped her face with a damp cloth and thought about taking a bath, but it seemed like too much work. She lay down to rest, letting the mild breeze from the windows waft over her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But sleep wouldn't come, despite her exhaustion." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In desolation, she realized she'd almost convinced herself that if she worked hard enough, Sano would return to her. She'd still believed he was out in the world somewhere, and if she demonstrated enough strength and courage, they would be reunited. But of course, avenging his murder wouldn't bring him back. Grief wracked her body, and she wept.\n\nThe door opened. Through her tears, Reiko saw a man silhouetted in the light from the corridor. He had a samurai's shaved crown and swords, and Sano's dimensions." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko felt a spring of hope, then crushing disappointment as she recognized another illusion created by the same wishful thinking that had populated Miyako with men who resembled Sano." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was probably just a nosy guest.\n\n\"Go away,\" Reiko called, sobbing harder.\n\nThe man said in Sano's voice, \"Reiko-san, it's me.\"\n\nShocked, she sat up, rubbing her eyes. \"No. It can't be.\" Then, as he knelt beside her, the light from the windows illuminated Sano's worried face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko laughed hysterically as disbelief and joy collided in her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano gathered her in his arms." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She wept and moaned, stroking his face and his chest, reveling in the miracle of his resurrection." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'where' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her efforts must have worked after all; she'd brought him back.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" Sano murmured into her hair. \"I'm so sorry.\" Then he said, \"I was worried about you. Where have you been?\"\n\nConfusion halted Reiko's catharsis. She drew back to look at Sano. \"Where have I been?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I came back this afternoon and found everyone gone,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've been out looking for you. Where were you?\"\n\nNow Reiko understood that there must be a rational explanation for Sano's return. She wanted so badly to know what it was that her own activities seemed beside the point. \"If you weren't murdered, what really happened? Where have you been?\"\n\n\"Before I tell you,\" Sano said, \"let me first say that I never meant to hurt you.\" His expression somber, he explained that Aisu had been the killer's victim, and he'd faked his own death to force Chamberlain Yanagisawa into the open." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That Sano had been around all along explained why Reiko had felt as if he were still alive, and Yanagisawa's presence in Miyako clarified many things about the murder case. But Reiko's joy turned to puzzlement. \"Why did you let me believe you were dead?\"\n\n\"I had to keep hidden, even from you, because there are so many spies, and I was afraid that the news might reach Yanagisawa. As things turned out, he knew already, but my plan still worked.\" Sano described how he'd confronted the chamberlain and secured his cooperation.\n\nReiko knew she should be glad of the plan's success, but she was too deeply hurt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You let me suffer because you didn't think I could keep a secret. How could you trust me so little?\"\n\n\"It's not that I don't trust you.\" Sano clasped Reiko to him, a pleading note in his voice. \"But I couldn't take the chance that someone might guess the truth from your behavior.\"\n\n\"I could have acted the part of a grieving widow well enough,\" Reiko retorted, furious now. \"Have you any idea what you've put me through?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I can guess,\" Sano said contritely, \"and I beg you to forgive me.\"\n\nHis touch suddenly seemed repugnant to Reiko, his apology spurious. She pounded him with her fists, shouting, \"Forgive you? Never! What you did was terrible and cruel.\"\n\nSano looked stricken, then sad. \"I deserve every bit of your anger. Please believe that I am truly sorry.\"\n\n\"That's not good enough!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko jumped to her feet and bolted away." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano chased her. He locked her in an unrelenting embrace. She struggled to break free, screaming, \"Go away! Leave me alone!\" Then her anger dissolved into weeping; he held her tight.\n\n\"Shh,\" he said, stroking her hair. \"It's all right.\"\n\nHe eased her onto the floor, lying beside her. The warm pressure of his body ignited fierce desire in Reiko." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She moaned, arching against him, and felt the hardness in his groin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then they were tearing away garments, entwining in the dim bands of light from the windows. After the wild coupling that overwhelmed them both with pleasure, they lay still in a sweaty tangle of limbs and clothing. Bars of waning light striped their bodies; incense smoke drifted in on the cooling breeze.\n\nSano touched Reiko's cheek. \"Can you possibly forgive me?\" he said softly.\n\nHer body had already forgiven him; eventually, her heart would too." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Basking in physical and spiritual well-being, Reiko murmured, \"I never thought that love with a dead husband would be so good.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They laughed at her joke, and she saw relief in Sano's eyes. The joy of having him back was almost worth her ordeal.\n\nThere was a commotion outside, then a knock at the door. \"Honorable Lady Reiko, are you in there?\" called Fukida's voice." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mode: Collab writing\nContext: May reference existing characters/world\nAmount: 11 sentences\nVoice: Laura Joh Rowland" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required text (preserve exact wording): \"Oh, good, you're back, sōsakan-sama.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rising, Sano donned his kimono and went to the door. He opened it a crack.\n\n\"Oh, good, you're back, sōsakan-sama.\" Despite the relief in his voice, Fukida looked frantic with worry. The guards and Reiko's maids stood in an anxious group behind him. \"I regret to say that I've failed in my duty to protect your wife. She left the inn without telling anyone. We've all been out searching for her, but we couldn't find her.\"\n\n\"She's here,\" Sano said. \"It's all right.\" He dismissed his staff, shut the door, and turned to Reiko. She was sitting up, wrapped in her white under-robe, uneasily watching him.\n\n\"Maybe now you'll tell me where you've been,\" Sano said.\n\n\"I went to the palace to ask Lady Jokyōden to help me solve the murder case,\" Reiko said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What?\" Sano exclaimed in alarm." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You saw Jokyōden, after you promised me you would stay away from her?\"\n\n\"Yes, because I didn't know you were still around to care about promises,\" Reiko said defensively. \"It seemed more important to find your killer and avenge your death.\"\n\nSano realized that he should have expected Reiko to behave this way; not even his death would quell her determined spirit. Now he was disturbed to learn that his short absence had been too long to leave Reiko on her own.\n\n\"Are you mad?\" he said, standing over her. \"Didn't you see that the second murder reduced the number of suspects and made Jokyōden even more likely to be the killer? Didn't you recognize the danger of associating with her?\"\n\n\"Of course I did. But the risk was worth it.\" Rising, Reiko walked to the table, picked up her embroidered silk purse, and removed a fragment of paper, which she handed to Sano. \"I found this in a house that Left Minister Konoe owned in the textile district.\"\n\nAs she described the house, how she'd gotten there, and her idea that Konoe had used it for espionage, Sano barely glanced at the words on the paper." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He said, \"Lady Jokyōden took you to this place?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Vexation crossed Reiko's features. \"We weren't alone. I brought my guards with us. Please give me credit for some intelligence.\"\n\n\"You believed what Lady Jokyōden told you about Left Minister Konoe purchasing the house? How did she know, anyway?\"\n\n\"She didn't say.\"\n\nAn evasive note in Reiko's voice signaled a lie. For the sake of peace, Sano chose to overlook it for the moment. \"Look, I know you were upset and not thinking clearly, but even so, you should have known better than to trust a murder suspect. So far, there's no evidence except Jokyōden's word that the house belonged to Konoe, or that this paper is his. Jokyōden might have been misleading you to divert suspicion away from herself.\"\n\n\"Well, yes, I was upset. Whose fault was that?\" Reiko said sarcastically. \"I did consider the problems you mentioned, but there must be a way to verify that Konoe owned the house and wrote the note. Besides, what I discovered next proves that it doesn't matter whether or not I was thinking clearly, or what Jokyōden's motives were for taking me to the house. I thought the note referred to spying that Konoe did on Lord Ibe. So I went there, and—\"\n\n\"Wait.\" Sano held up his hands. He had an ominous feeling that he was going to hear something else he wouldn't like." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Slow down. You went where?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"To the daimyo's house in the cloth dyers' district,\" Reiko said patiently." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Lady Jokyōden gave me directions.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She did, did she?\" When Sano had met Jokyōden, he'd thought her arrogant and contrary; now he liked her even less for abetting his wife's misadventures.\n\n\"I asked Fukida-san to go with me,\" Reiko said, \"but he wouldn't. He even took away my palanquin and guards. I realize now that he wanted to wait for you to come back before doing anything, but at the time I thought he was ignoring an important clue. So I went alone.\"\n\nHorror filled Sano. \"You walked across town by yourself?\" If he'd known what she would do, he would have risked letting her know the truth about his faked death. \"Didn't you think of what might have happened to you?\"\n\n\"Nothing did, so there's no need to worry now.\" Reiko hesitated, then said, \"I met a rough-looking man at Lord Ibe's house. He wouldn't answer my questions, and I was suspicious, so I sneaked through the back door for a look inside.\"\n\nShe spoke as if she'd done the most reasonable thing in the world. Sano stared, dumbstruck.\n\n\"And guess what I found!\" Animated with excitement, Reiko described an arsenal of weapons and a gang of samurai, gangsters, peasant ruffians, and an armed priest." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano was too upset by her daring to think about the implications of her discovery." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He shouted, \"I can't believe you did that! You could have been killed! That was the most stupid, reckless, thoughtless, dangerous, foolhardy—\"\n\n\"And the most important piece of evidence yet,\" Reiko said.\n\n\"You shouldn't have done it!\"\n\n\"What's done is done. Now please stop yelling and consider what this means to the case.\"\n\n\"First I want you to promise you'll never do such a thing again,\" Sano said.\n\n\"Only if you'll promise never again to trick me into thinking you're dead.\"\n\nThis was one of those times when Sano longed for a traditional marriage where the husband set the rules and the wife obeyed them, instead of this constant negotiation. \"All right, I promise,\" he said. \"Do you?\"\n\n\"Yes,\" Reiko said, then hurried on: \"I believe the gang is plotting to overthrow the Tokugawa regime, and that someone in the Imperial Court is behind the plot. One of the murder suspects must be arming troops in preparation to restore power to the emperor. Left Minister Konoe must have found out, and the murderer killed him to prevent him from telling the authorities.\"\n\nSano saw the logic of her reasoning, and the new political element in the case disturbed him, but he strove for objectivity. \"That's quite a leap to make from a few scribbled notes, a few troublemakers, and a few guns.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"There were more than just a few guns,\" Reiko said, \"and the size of the arsenal means there must be hundreds, even thousands of troublemakers involved in the plot. They could launch a full-scale siege of Miyako at any moment.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 12 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She grasped Sano's hands. \"You must do something immediately.\"\n\n\"Of course I'll investigate the situation,\" Sano said. \"Any potential threat against the regime must be taken seriously. But let's not jump to conclusions. You were in the house for only a short time, while you were under severe emotional stress. Maybe there weren't as many weapons as you thought; maybe you misinterpreted what the men said.\"\n\n\"I know what I saw and heard,\" Reiko said stubbornly. \"If you don't arrest those men and seize the arsenal, there could be a revolt that turns into nationwide civil war. Entire provinces could fall under rebel control before the bakufu has time to mount an effective defense. Eventually, war could reach Edo.\"\n\n\"That's a distinct possibility.\" While Sano could think of arguments against the theory, he hesitated to raise them lest he reawaken Reiko's hurt and resentment over his deception. \"Therefore, I have to proceed with caution. A revolt goes beyond the scope of the murder investigation. I must inform the shoshidai and Chamberlain Yanagisawa.\"\n\n\"Soon, I hope?\" Reiko said.\n\n\"Tonight.\" Instead of the evening of rest that he'd wanted, Sano anticipated hours of secret meetings. \"And tomorrow I'll begin looking for the instigator of the plot at the Imperial Palace.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll be your writing partner for this section. I'll provide a segment, and you continue with two sentences, channeling Laura Joh Rowland in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre. Characters may have backstories from previous chapters." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At dawn, a brisk wind rattled the window blinds, awakening Sano in his room at Nijō Manor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He smelled smoke, heard bells clanging, and bolted up in bed, heart pounding as he recalled a fire that had almost claimed his life. But the inn was quiet except for the ordinary noises of guests rising." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano washed and dressed. Leaving Reiko asleep, he took his morning meal with his detectives in their rooms and gave them their orders for the day." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then he rode to the Imperial Palace.\n\nSmoke hovered over Miyako, adding an acrid pall to the hazy, oppressive heat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "From newssellers who hawked broadsheets, Sano learned that the wind had blown down some Obon lanterns and started a fire that had spread across the southern part of town. Nervous citizens kept watch for more fires." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano's own mood was troubled as he recalled his meeting with Shoshidai Matsudaira and Chamberlain Yanagisawa at Nijō Castle last night, when he'd told them about the outlaws and guns at Lord Ibe's house." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At first, Yanagisawa had scoffed at the possibility of an imperial restoration attempt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The court is powerless. How could they dare to attack the bakufu?\"\n\n\"It's happened before,\" Sano said, prepared to counter the objections that had occurred to him when Reiko had broached the idea." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Four hundred and seventy years ago, Emperor Go-Toba tried to overthrow the Kamakura dictatorship with the help of militant monks and rebellious samurai clans.\"\n\n\"I'm familiar with history,\" Yanagisawa said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Go-Toba's coup failed. So did the one led by Emperor Go-Daigo two hundred years later. Although he managed to seize control, his reign lasted only a short time. I doubt that the Tokugawa regime is in any danger from his descendants now.\"\n\n\"Indeed,\" the shoshidai murmured." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I agree that those attempts were futile,\" Sano said. \"My point is that someone did try. And Emperor Go-Daigo's coup eventually resulted in a shift of power to a new regime. This could happen again, if the revolt spreads and the daimyo unite against the Tokugawa. Miyako is a good starting place for civil war. It's far from the shogun's forces in Edo, and the emperor is a natural rallying point for malcontents seeking a new leader. Left Minister Konoe must have realized all this. An armed insurrection against the bakufu is high treason—punishable by death for everyone involved, plus their families and associates. Therefore, Konoe had to be eliminated before he could report his discovery.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa frowned, and Sano knew he wanted to disagree for the sake of disagreeing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He must hate having Sano inform him about a development that he hadn't managed to discover himself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nevertheless, Yanagisawa couldn't ignore any threat against the regime he controlled, no matter how little he liked acting on Sano's recommendation.\n\n\"I'll handle the situation at Lord Ibe's house,\" Yanagisawa said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"My troops are at your service,\" said the shoshidai, clearly glad that he wouldn't have to take charge himself.\n\nSano hoped that the task would keep Yanagisawa too busy to cause new troubles for him, but he doubted it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He feared that he would live to regret his strange partnership with the chamberlain.\n\nNow a party of nobles conveyed Sano into the palace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Courtiers huddled along the passages of the kuge quarter, conversing in whispers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They fell silent and bowed as Sano passed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Seeing the animosity in their eyes, he presumed they were discussing the murder, the false report of his death, and the arrest of Lady Asagao. Obviously no one wanted him here." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yet anticipation lifted Sano's mood." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The discovery of the arsenal and outlaw gang gave him a new chance to solve the case.\n\nAt Right Minister Ichijo's estate, attendants had gathered in the courtyard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Down the stairs of the mansion came Ichijo, dressed in a formal black cap and robes and leaning on an ebony cane. When he saw Sano, he halted on the bottom step." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Congratulations on your miraculous return to the world of the living, sōsakan-sama,\" he said, bowing with stiff dignity that bespoke his displeasure at Sano's arrival." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Forgive me if I haven't time to receive you, but I must go to my daughter. She is home now, but quite upset from her ordeal.\"\n\nSano braced himself for a dangerous, difficult interview." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The murderer had already killed one Tokugawa retainer, and antagonizing a suspect might provoke another attack." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In addition, Sano had unintentionally created bad blood between the bakufu and the Imperial Court." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I beg your pardon for my treatment of the honorable Lady Asagao,\" Sano said, forced to grovel for the mistake connived by Chamberlain Yanagisawa. \"Please accept my sincere apologies.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ichijo looked slightly mollified." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you for freeing my daughter.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "With a trace of waspishness, he added, \"Of course, freedom is no more than Lady Asagao's due. Certainly she has been exonerated.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, she has,\" Sano said, \"and I won't delay you long, but I must ask you some questions.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Such as?\"\n\n\"Where were you during the murder the night before last?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shaking his head in annoyance, Ichijo walked past Sano. \"My activities are none of your concern, since I was never under suspicion for Left Minister Konoe's murder, and therefore not for this one, which was obviously committed by the same person.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've spoken with Chamberlain Yanagisawa. He supplied information that changes your situation.\"\n\nSano watched Ichijo halt, and saw the wary look on his face as he reluctantly turned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ichijo had seemed surprised not to be questioned about Konoe's murder, Sano recalled, and loitered around during the inquiries in the palace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He must have wondered why he hadn't been targeted as a suspect." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After his interrogation by Yanagisawa, he'd probably lived in fear for his life. Now Sano could see the crafty old politician marshaling his defense." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I was here at home, asleep, when the scream woke me,\" Ichijo said. \"Soon afterward a servant came to tell me there had been another death. My household can verify that.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Observing the closed faces of Ichijo's staff, Sano knew these men would lie to protect Ichijo from the despised bakufu.\n\n\"Before the second murder, you received a message that I would be in the palace that night,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes.\" Ichijo tapped his cane on a paving stone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He scrutinized Sano with shrewd calculation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But you did nothing about it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ichijo gave Sano a sour smile. \"I disdain anonymous communications and therefore ignored this one. I've been informed that similar messages were delivered to Lady Jokyōden, Prince Momozono, and the emperor. I spoke with them this morning and learned that they, too, ignored the messages.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I see.\" Sano felt vexed at Ichijo, who had surely advised the other suspects to claim they'd disregarded the opportunity to attack him, thereby protecting themselves and obstructing his investigation.\n\n\"If you've finished, I shall be going,\" Ichijo said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Not just yet.\" Hastened into blunt speech, Sano said, \"Your daughter has been exonerated, but you're still a suspect. You and Left Minister Konoe were rivals for the post of prime minister. My arresting Lady Asagao gave you reason to want me dead, and killing me while she was imprisoned would clear her.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Anger bared Ichijo's blackened teeth; his thin hand gripped the gold handle of his cane." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In a cutting voice he said, \"Even if you disregard my alibi, do you really think I have the power to kill with a scream?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Perhaps we should talk about that in private,\" Sano said, \"along with some other matters that you might not care to discuss out here.\"\n\nHe saw a flash of apprehension in Ichijo's eyes: Whether guilty of murder or not, Ichijo had something to hide." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then, with a martyred expression, the right minister led Sano into the mansion and to his office.\n\n\"Now that we're alone,\" he said, \"what did you wish to discuss with me?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano reminded himself that Yanagisawa had picked Ichijo as his prime suspect. With all Sano's fighting skill, he was defenseless against the power of kiai." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If Ichijo had that ability, Sano courted death during every moment spent with the right minister. A current of fear ran through Sano as he circled the room, examining the paintings on the walls." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The first panel showed a garden where wisteria vines draped an arbor, under which stood two men, both wearing the costumes of a thousand years ago.\n\n\"Nakatomi Kamatari,\" Sano said, pointing to the older man in the painting." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required text (preserve exact wording): \"Your ancestor. And the young man is Naka-no-Oye, an imperial prince and disgruntled member of the Soga clan, which once dominated the court. The two plotted to oust the Soga and seize power. When they succeeded, the prince became emperor. Kamatari took the new name Fujiwara—wisteria—in memory of the garden where they conspired. As the emperor's mentor, he won great power for his clan. For some five hundred years afterward, the Fujiwara ruled Japan from behind the throne.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Your ancestor. And the young man is Naka-no-Oye, an imperial prince and disgruntled member of the Soga clan, which once dominated the court. The two plotted to oust the Soga and seize power. When they succeeded, the prince became emperor. Kamatari took the new name Fujiwara—wisteria—in memory of the garden where they conspired. As the emperor's mentor, he won great power for his clan. For some five hundred years afterward, the Fujiwara ruled Japan from behind the throne.\"\n\n\"I am impressed by your knowledge of my heritage,\" Ichijo said with chill asperity, \"but surely it cannot be the reason for your interest in me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"On the contrary.\" Sano moved to the next panel. It showed the Purple Dragon Hall of the Imperial Palace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "On the veranda, a courtier stood beside a boy dressed in the tall black hat and elaborate robes of the emperor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Pointing to the courtier, Sano said, \"This must be Fujiwara Yoshifusa, regent for the young Emperor Seiwa, who reigned seven centuries ago. Yoshifusa established the tradition of marrying Fujiwara daughters to emperors. A father-in-law can exert much influence over a young sovereign, yes?\"\n\nIchijo compressed his mouth in annoyance at this allusion to his relationship with Emperor Tomohito." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But the zenith of Fujiwara glory was the great Michinaga,\" Sano said. \"His daughters were consorts to four emperors; two other emperors were his nephews, and three his grandsons. He ruled supreme for thirty-two years.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano contemplated the last painting, a view of a temple at night. In the sky floated a huge, round moon." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Michinaga founded this monastery at Hojo Temple. He wrote a poem boasting that he was a master of his world, 'like the flawless full moon riding the skies.'\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That is true,\" Ichijo said impatiently, \"but I fail to see what relevance it has to your investigation.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"After Michinaga's death, the Fujiwara fortunes declined. Power shifted to the samurai class.\" Sano faced Ichijo. \"Don't you regret the passing of those glorious days?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Disdain shaded Ichijo's face. \"Even if I did, that gives me no reason for wanting Left Minister Konoe dead. The post of prime minister confers no power outside the Imperial Palace. Killing my rival would not have reestablished Fujiwara control over Japan.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'ichijo' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But perhaps Konoe had discovered that Ichijo was planning to restore imperial rule and Fujiwara supremacy by mounting a revolt against the Tokugawa, Sano speculated. Ichijo was in a unique position to influence Emperor Tomohito, both as chief adviser and as father of the imperial consort." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If a coup succeeded, Ichijo would dominate the throne—and the nation—as his ancestors had. Therefore, Ichijo was a prime candidate for instigator of the rebel conspiracy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you know Lord Ibe Masanobu?\" Sano asked.\n\nIchijo raised his eyebrows, although Sano couldn't tell whether he was surprised by the apparent non sequitur or if the name had significance to him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The daimyo of Echizen Province? We have never met.\"\n\n\"Have you ever been to his house in the cloth dyers' district?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It is my understanding that the daimyo are forbidden to have estates in Miyako, and since I'm not acquainted with Lord Ibe, there would be no reason for me to visit him. Really, I do not see the point of these questions.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Have you any contact with priests at the local monasteries?\"\n\n\"Of course. They perform ceremonies here at the palace.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Folding his arms, Ichijo said, \"I get the impression that you are accusing me of something besides the murders. At least be specific so that I may defend myself.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "If Ichijo knew about the activities at Lord Ibe's estate, he was doing an excellent job of pretending he didn't." }, { "from": "human", "value": "However, this veteran of court politics would have mastered the art of dissembling, and Ichijo's clan had masterminded secret plots for centuries." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But Sano wasn't ready to make an open accusation yet.\n\n\"Even if you aren't acquainted with Lord Ibe, I believe your family has close ties with other daimyo clans,\" he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The Kuroda and the Mitsu, in particular.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Many of us have married into those families,\" Ichijo said stiffly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This was a common practice by which the samurai gained prestige via connections with the Imperial Court, while the nobles shared in the daimyo families' wealth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Then you've had the opportunity to study the martial arts with them?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The opportunity, yes; the desire, no,\" Ichijo said with a moue of distaste." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We in the court are glad to give the benefit of our learning to the samurai class. But with all due respect, we prefer to maintain the integrity of our culture by not absorbing yours.\"\n\nHowever, Sano knew that cultural influence flowed both ways." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As men of the daimyo clans studied art and music with their imperial in-laws, so might nobles practice Bushido under the direction of samurai relatives." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano perceived the strong will hidden behind Ichijo's refined countenance, and will was the foundation for the power of kiai, the perfect weapon for a courtier who wanted a means of self-defense—or murder." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Unless you have something else to discuss,\" said Ichijo, \"I really must go. My daughter needs me.\"\n\n\"Just one more thing,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The right minister's look of aggrieved impatience did not change, but alarm radiated from Ichijo." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'wondered' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano wondered what he was hiding. He also wondered whether there was something that Yanagisawa had neglected to tell him about Ichijo." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I need to speak with His Majesty the Emperor, Lady Jokyōden, and Prince Momozono,\" Sano said. \"I would prefer to see them alone, without giving them advance notice.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That is against court protocol, but I suppose an exception can be made.\" Through Ichijo's grudging consent, Sano saw relief." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Whatever he was hiding must be serious, for him to readily grant an objectionable request just to avoid more questions." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I shall escort you to the imperial enclosure now.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thank you,\" Sano said.\n\nIchijo started toward the door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano lagged behind. Then he lunged forward and grabbed the right minister, locking his right arm around Ichijo's shoulders, his left across Ichijo's throat. For an instant, Ichijo stiffened." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano was startled to feel tough, wiry muscles: Despite his age, Ichijo kept himself fit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano recalled the unearthly scream, and Aisu's bloody corpse." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What if Ichijo did indeed possess the power of kiai?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "At this close range, he could kill Sano by barely raising his voice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano knew the risk he took by provoking Ichijo, but what better way to expose the truth?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then Ichijo went limp." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He struggled feebly in Sano's grasp, bleating, \"Help, help!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano let go. Relief and disappointment filled him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The door opened and two servants appeared." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They hurried to the aid of their master, who sagged against the wall, coughing. Ichijo's cheeks were red, his eyes watery." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He glared at Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I know why you did that,\" he said, \"and I hope you are satisfied. You almost killed me.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If that's the case, then I apologize,\" Sano said, unconvinced. Might a man who could master kiaijutsu also be quick enough to hide his skill by feigning weakness? \"I'll see the imperial family now.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for eight sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The procession of fifty mounted samurai, resplendent in full armor, halted outside the walled compound of police headquarters. Chamberlain Yanagisawa swung down off his horse. \"Wait here,\" he told his troops.\n\nDetective Marume said, \"Why are we stopping?\"\n\nDetective Fukida said, \"Shouldn't we proceed directly to Lord Ibe's house?\"\n\nHanging his helmet on his saddle, Yanagisawa barely controlled his anger. His own retainers would never dare question anything he did, but Sano's exhibited the same annoying outspokenness as their master. That Yanagisawa needed their help only worsened his bad mood." }, { "from": "human", "value": "First he'd had to agree to cooperate with Sano." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'marume' 3 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now he must confront the worst humiliation of all.\n\n\"I have business here,\" he told Marume and Fukida.\n\nHe strode through the gate, into the main building. There, two doshin and their civilian assistants loitered around a high platform where a clerk presided over a desk piled with ledgers. Yanagisawa stalked past the platform, through a doorway, and into a labyrinth of offices and corridors.\n\n\"Hoshina!\" he shouted.\n\nMarume and Fukida hurried after him. \"Hoshina's not here,\" Marume said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Let's just go, please.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If he's not here, then why are you so eager to stop me?\" Yanagisawa kept going. \"You thought I wouldn't find your master's hostage, but I did.\"\n\nYesterday, Yanagisawa had set his Miyako spies to the task of locating the yoriki. It hadn't been easy, because Hoshina had loyal friends on the police force who'd tried to protect him. Not until late last night had Yanagisawa learned where Sano had hidden Hoshina. Now fury at Hoshina's betrayal rose within him like hot, poisonous steam.\n\nThe betrayal was made all the more painful by Yanagisawa's memories of the night of the shoshidai's banquet, when he and Hoshina had spent hours in the house by the river, alternating bouts of urgent sex with talk about politics, their experiences, current events, and mutual interests in art and theater. They'd shared an intimacy that Yanagisawa had never enjoyed with anyone else." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For once he had felt exuberantly alive, yet at peace." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required dialogue to include (maintain exact wording): \"To Miyako's best police commander, a fine comrade, and a valuable addition to my staff.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Just before Hoshina left, they had toasted each other. \"To a successful venture,\" Hoshina had said.\n\nThey drank, then Yanagisawa said, \"To Miyako's best police commander, a fine comrade, and a valuable addition to my staff.\"\n\nPleasure and consternation mingled on Hoshina's face. Frowning down at the cup in his hands, he said, \"But I'm only your comrade and a member of your staff for as long as you're in Miyako.\"\n\n\"Ah. Well.\"\n\n\"I understand the difficulty that traveling so far from Edo causes you,\" Hoshina said. \"I know I can't expect you to come to Miyako again, and I can't abandon my duties here to visit you. So...\" He shrugged with unconvincing nonchalance." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"After you leave, I probably won't see you again.\"\n\n\"That's true.\" Stalling for time to sort out his thoughts, Yanagisawa imagined his return to Edo Castle, where his only close companions were the ghosts of his father, Lord Takei, and Shichisaburō. The prospect filled him with desolation.\n\nHoshina drew a deep breath, then said, \"If I were to go to Edo with you...\" He paused, cautiously gauging Yanagisawa's response.\n\nIt was a tempting idea. If Hoshina came with him, Yanagisawa wouldn't be alone, and who better than Hoshina to help build his personal empire within the bakufu? Hoshina was strong, intelligent, and more capable than anyone else in Yanagisawa's retinue...\n\nAnd there lay the danger of promoting the yoriki." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hoshina had already taken over the shoshidai's office, proving his desire to usurp authority." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Loyalty wasn't his strongest virtue: He had no qualms about deserting the shoshidai for a better patron." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What if he got tired of the affair with Yanagisawa and sought new amorous adventures? Worse, Hoshina might win the shogun's favor, form alliances within the bakufu, and eventually seize power.\n\n\"A matter like this cannot be decided in haste,\" Yanagisawa hedged.\n\nYet he'd almost made up his mind to take Hoshina to Edo as his new chief retainer and risk everything for a chance at happiness. Now he couldn't believe he'd been so foolish.\n\nHe found the prison cell in the rear corner of the building. Two soldiers stood guard outside the iron-banded door. \"Open it,\" Yanagisawa ordered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The guards hesitated. Yanagisawa spoke in a quiet, steely voice: \"If you don't let me in, you will be executed.\"\n\nHastily, the guards unbolted and opened the door. Yanagisawa stood on the threshold of the cell. Inside, barred windows illuminated a tatami floor with a bed on one side and a chamber pot on the other. Yoriki Hoshina stood in the center. His clothes were rumpled; his hair hung loose. Dismay filled his eyes as he stared at Yanagisawa.\n\n\"Traitor,\" Yanagisawa said softly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hoshina extended his hands in a gesture of entreaty." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Please let me explain.\"\n\nYanagisawa strode over to the yoriki and struck him on the mouth. Hoshina gave a startled cry, touched his lip, and frowned at the blood on his fingers.\n\n\"What is there to explain?\" Yanagisawa said contemptuously. \"You told Sano everything you knew. You told him where I was. You betrayed me!\"\n\nHe kicked Hoshina in the stomach. Hoshina went reeling across the cell, hit the wall, and slid to the floor. \"Sano offered you the promotion you wanted in exchange for delivering me into his hands,\" Yanagisawa said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You accepted his bribe and shifted your allegiance to him.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hoshina clambered to his feet. \"No!\" he protested. \"I would never deliberately harm you after—\" He broke off.\n\n\"Shut up!\" That the yoriki dared to mention the night they had spent together infuriated Yanagisawa even more.\n\n\"Sano didn't bribe me,\" Hoshina said, raising his hands to ward off more blows. \"He would have destroyed me if I refused to cooperate. I'm not a traitor, just a coward.\" He knelt, his expression strained with desperation and woe. \"Please allow me to apologize. Please forgive me.\"\n\nWith a harsh, scornful laugh Yanagisawa said, \"A million apologies won't buy my forgiveness or excuse you for trying to murder me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Murder you? What are you talking about?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hoshina gazed at him in confusion.\n\nYanagisawa bitterly regretted trusting the yoriki, because he'd figured out why Hoshina must have been planning to betray him all along. He spoke in a fierce whisper so no one else in the building would hear: \"Sano wasn't the only person you withheld information from and tricked with a false report about Left Minister Konoe's murder. Your position gives you access to the imperial compound. You were there the night Konoe died, weren't you? He went to the Pond Garden because you ordered him to meet you there. And you killed him with the power of kiai. Then you protected yourself by manipulating me to suit your schemes.\"\n\nThis humiliated Yanagisawa even more than having to work with Sano. \"Right Minister Ichijo, Emperor Tomohito, Lady Jokyōden, and Prince Momozono knew Sano was going to be at the palace last night, but you were the only person besides Aisu and my guards who knew I would be there too. You followed us. You killed Aisu, but Sano came before you could get to me. Then you came back to investigate the murder you'd committed.\"\n\n\"I didn't kill Konoe or Aisu.\" Indignation flared in the yoriki's voice. \"Why would I?\"\n\n\"Keep your voice down!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And why attack you?\" Hoshina whispered furiously." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'murderer' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"To safeguard yourself from treason charges,\" Yanagisawa said. \"You're too ambitious to be content with running the shoshidai's office or being my personal retainer. You're part of the conspiracy that Sano discovered. Konoe found out about it, and you had to kill him before he turned you in to the metsuke.\"\n\n\"What conspiracy?\" An incredulous look came over Hoshina's face. \"Turned me in for what?\"\n\n\"Don't play stupid with me. You've been gathering troops and weapons at Lord Ibe's house, and you couldn't take the chance that I might discover the plot to overthrow the Tokugawa. My death would cause a great upheaval in the bakufu. It would be a while before anyone reopened the investigation into Konoe's murder, and in the meantime, you could launch your coup. So you came after me. You killed Aisu because you couldn't tell which of us was which in the dark.\" Yanagisawa slammed Hoshina against the wall. \"Murderer! Traitor!\"\n\nNow Hoshina's eyes blazed with anger. \"Those are fine insults, coming from you. I've never murdered anyone, but everybody knows you have. I'm not plotting to overthrow the government, but you've already stolen the shogun's authority. If you want to see a real murderer and traitor, look in the mirror!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The yoriki shoved Yanagisawa away from him. Rage erupted within the chamberlain. \"How dare you lay hands on me?\"\n\n\"You were perfectly content to have my hands on you the other night,\" Hoshina retorted.\n\n\"Don't mock me!\" Yanagisawa kicked at Hoshina's knees and crotch, flung blows at his head and chest, all the while yelling curses.\n\nAt first Hoshina only ducked the strikes. \"How can you treat me like this, after what I've done for you?\" he cried. \"I put myself in jeopardy by sabotaging Sano. Would I have risked conspiring against the shogun's sōsakan if not to help you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Stop trying to justify what you did!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa grabbed Hoshina, then punched his chin so hard that his head jerked back." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You wanted the power and wealth that I could give you. You wanted Sano gone so he couldn't interfere with your plans.\"\n\nThe yoriki shot out a forearm and bludgeoned Yanagisawa's face. Pain exploded in Yanagisawa's head. Then they were caught up in the whirlwind of earnest combat. Yanagisawa's armor protected his body, but he took more blows to his face. He pummeled Hoshina. They crashed to the floor together. As they grappled for each other's throats, desire inflamed Yanagisawa. He wanted Hoshina as badly as he wanted to kill the man with his bare hands." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then the cell was full of men." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They dragged Hoshina off Yanagisawa, begging, \"Stop, Hoshina-san!\"\n\nYanagisawa sat up and saw two yoriki holding Hoshina. Fury contorted Hoshina's face as he struggled against them. Marume helped Yanagisawa stand. His left eye had begun to swell and his entire body was sore, but as far as he could tell, nothing was broken. As he stalked out of the cell, his spirit ached with an agony that had nothing to do with physical pain.\n\n\"Yanagisawa-san.\"\n\nHoshina's voice, filled with pleading, stabbed Yanagisawa like a jagged metal blade." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Against his will, he turned.\n\nNow Hoshina stood meekly while the police held him. \"I swear upon my honor that I never wanted to hurt you, and I'm truly sorry I did.\" Sincerity shone in his eyes, which gazed out at Yanagisawa from a bloody, bruised face.\n\n\"More lies and apologies won't save you from paying for your crimes. I sentence you to death.\" Even as he condemned Hoshina, Yanagisawa suffered an onslaught of desire and grief. He acknowledged a devastating truth.\n\nHe was in love with Hoshina." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Love was the cause of the yearning he'd felt for the yoriki, the source and substance of the comradeship that had grown between them." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 9 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He should have known. And he should have known better.\n\n\"If you'll give me another chance, I'll make it up to you,\" Hoshina said. \"I'll help you solve the murder case, devote my life to your service—anything you want. I'll prove that I'm innocent of any crimes. Just please...\" Emotion cracked his voice. \"Have mercy.\"\n\nYanagisawa turned his back on Hoshina. Even if the yoriki wasn't guilty of murder or treason, he deserved to die. He must die so that Yanagisawa could thwart Sano's blackmail. And Yanagisawa would never again make the mistake of falling in love.\n\n\"You'll be executed tomorrow morning,\" he said." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mode: Collab writing\nContext: May reference existing characters/world\nAmount: 11 sentences\nVoice: Laura Joh Rowland" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<USAGE LIMIT>>: 'troops' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The battering ram struck the gate of Lord Ibe's house with a thunderous crash, splintering wood and breaking hinges. Soldiers rushed through the portals. More troops climbed the fences around the house and swarmed the property. Brandishing swords and spears, they shouted, \"In the name of the shogun, come out and surrender!\"\n\nChamberlain Yanagisawa charged into the front yard after his men. He welcomed action that would take his mind off the pain of Hoshina's betrayal. He wanted to forget that he still loved Hoshina and mourned the yoriki's impending death, even though he'd ordered it himself. He must avert the possible threat to the regime, and the capture of the outlaws represented a new chance to solve the murders.\n\nThe troops were inside the house now. As Yanagisawa entered, they stormed the corridor and rooms. Above him pounded the footsteps of the men who'd invaded the second story." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Shouts echoed in the dim, musty space." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa gripped his sword." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His desire to be a great detective persisted; he discovered in himself a need to prove he was capable of more than just sabotaging Sano. The thrill of the raid stirred the place deep inside him where his samurai spirit lay dormant. With a strange, heady anticipation, Yanagisawa hungered for battle.\n\nThen Detective Marume came running from the back of the house. \"Nobody in here, Honorable Chamberlain,\" he said.\n\nDetective Fukida clattered down the stairs. \"Second floor's empty, too. They've all cleared out.\"\n\nYanagisawa's spirits plunged. \"What about the weapons?\"\n\nFukida shook his head. Marume said, \"We didn't find any.\"\n\nThe soldiers gathered in the corridor, sheathing their swords." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa cursed, using temper to hide the despair that filled him as his suspicions about Hoshina grew. Had the yoriki somehow managed to send orders for the outlaws to move the arsenal after Sano imprisoned him? Yanagisawa didn't wish to acknowledge the worst sins of his lover, or admit defeat. He wanted to torture Hoshina into revealing the outlaws' whereabouts; he wanted to vent his fury while slaking his desire.\n\n\"Search the place again,\" he said. \"Look for anything that might tell us where the outlaws are or what they're planning.\"\n\nWhile the men obeyed, Yanagisawa inspected the storerooms. They were empty, although the air still reeked of gunpowder. A single round bullet lay under the window. Yanagisawa picked up the bullet and cupped it despondently in his palm. His mood grew bleaker when the troops came to report an unsuccessful search." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Ask the neighbors if they know where the occupants went,\" Yanagisawa said." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If not, I want the city and surrounding areas searched for the arsenal. The outlaws may have gone to join their confederates. Find them before we have a war on our hands.\"\n\nHe lingered in the empty arsenal. Tracing the outlaws would probably require a long, tedious search that would keep him in Miyako for ages. Yanagisawa hated the thought of reporting the bad news to his bakufu subordinates, who would spread the tale of his unsuccessful raid, setting him up to take the blame if a revolt did materialize. He dreaded spending the night alone at Nijō Castle, knowing that Hoshina would soon be dead. Crouching on the floor, he laid his head on his knees and succumbed to misery." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Narrative Continuation Protocol:\nQuantity: 5 sentences\nStyle: Laura Joh Rowland\nGenre: Sano Ichiro 5\nContext: Part of larger work" }, { "from": "human", "value": "An incongruous sight greeted Sano and Right Minister Ichijo at the emperor's residence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Two armies of banner bearers, archers, gunners, spearmen, and mounted swordsmen faced off across the courtyard. The troops wore armor in the style of four centuries before, featuring huge arm flaps, long tunics, and intricate lacing. Sunlight glinted off polished helmets; a war drum boomed across a battle scene straight out of history.\n\nThen, as Sano drew nearer, the illusion dissolved. The weapons were wooden; the horses were painted papiermâché heads mounted on sticks." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "None of the soldiers was more than sixteen years old. Most wore only bits of tattered armor, as though the imperial treasure-house hadn't supplied enough equipment for everyone. These were young courtiers at play, not samurai at war. Waiting for a signal to begin fighting, they giggled and pushed one another.\n\nSuddenly a loud whoop rang out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At the rear of one army, Emperor Tomohito, clad in a complete, splendid suit of armor, raised a war fan bearing the gold imperial chrysanthemum crest." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Straddling his toy horse, he ran up the side of the battlefield." }, { "from": "human", "value": "So much for the rule forbidding the emperor's feet to touch the ground, Sano thought." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"His Majesty enjoys war games,\" Ichijo said, then bowed and departed.\n\nThe archers let blunt-tipped arrows fly. Gunners aimed toy arquebuses, shouting, \"Bang! Bang!\" Wooden swords and spears made a racket as foot soldiers and horsemen clashed. Some boys on the emperor's side wore the insignia of northern and western samurai clans; others sported the white cowls of warrior priests." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The other side wore armor with the red lacing associated with the Minamoto regime that had once ruled Japan. Recognizing the battle, Sano wondered why Emperor Tomohito had chosen to reenact it.\n\nThen he heard hoots coming from the sidelines. Near a collection of spare weapons stood Prince Momozono. He wore a plain cotton kimono and a helmet much too big for him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His arms and head jerked.\n\nApproaching, Sano greeted the prince.\n\nMomozono's hoots turned to squeals of alarm. As he lurched around to face Sano, his leg buckled, and he fell. Fear glazed his rolling eyes as he struggled to rise." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm sorry I startled you,\" Sano said, again feeling instinctive disgust. He warned himself that the prince was still a suspect, and one he hadn't had a chance to investigate thoroughly. He couldn't assume that Momozono was harmless. Hiding his distaste, Sano reached out to the fallen prince. \"Let me help you up.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"N-no, thank you, that's all right.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hoot, puff, gasp. Twitching all over, Momozono somehow managed to stand.\n\nPity moved Sano. He spoke gently, as if to a child: \"Well, this is certainly an exciting battle. Are you the captain of the arsenal?\"\n\n\"I'm not much good at anything, but H-his Majesty is kind enough to give me a p-part in his games.\"\n\nMore noises accompanied Momozono's answer, but Sano couldn't mistake the emphasis on the last word. Momozono was no childlike cripple, but a mature man who understood the difference between make-believe and the terrible reality of his own existence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're fond of the emperor, then?\" Sano asked, watching Tomohito gallop across the battlefield.\n\n\"Yes.\" Momozono made barking sounds, like a dog.\n\n\"I understand that His Majesty treated you kindly and gave you a place at court when no one else wanted you around.\"\n\n\"He did m-more than that.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Momozono gripped his arms, forcing them to hold still. \"If not for him, I would be dead.\" Unpleasant memory clouded his straining face.\n\n\"Tell me what happened,\" Sano said.\n\nPrince Momozono hesitated: He obviously knew the danger a murder suspect courted by confiding in the shogun's sōsakan." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yet Sano sensed in him an impulse that opposed caution. How often did anyone bother talking to him? How much he must yearn for communication! Finally, Momozono spoke.\n\n\"W-when I was young, I lived in the imperial children's palace with the other p-princes and princesses. Then, in the s-spring when I was eight, my affliction started." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I w-was scolded and beaten, but I couldn't control myself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The d-doctors couldn't discover what was wrong with me. They forced m-medicines down my throat and gave me purges and enemas.\" Through the grunts that punctuated the words echoed the anguish of a child who didn't understand what was happening to him. \"Priests s-said I was possessed by a demon. They lit fires around me and ch-chanted spells to drive it out.\n\n\"B-but nothing worked. I got worse. Finally I was l-locked in a storehouse. Every day a s-servant opened the door and put food inside. I was allowed to come out only wh-when the storehouse was c-cleaned. The s-servant would throw b-buckets of water inside and sweep out the filth. Then he stripped me and threw water on m-me. There was only one w-window in the storehouse. All I could s-see was the sky through the b-branches of a cherry tree. For a whole y-year I lived there.\"\n\nSano imagined the young Momozono hooting and convulsing in his prison, watching the cherry blossoms bloom then drift to the ground, the leaves unfurl then drop, until snow covered the boughs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Empathy had no place in a murder investigation, but the prince's story affected Sano deeply.\n\n\"Then one night, s-some men came. They wrapped me up in qu-quilts so I couldn't m-move, and tied a gag over my mouth. They c-carried me away in a palanquin. They didn't t-tell me where they were taking me, but I h-heard them talking about how I was going to live in exile. I was glad because I thought Exile was the n-name of a place where children like m-me could be happy. I didn't know any better.\"\n\nHis voice broke on a sob; his eyes teared. Grimacing and puffing, he said, \"We traveled for a l-long time. At last we stopped at a m-mountain village. It was d-dark and snowing and very c-cold." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The men set me down outside the v-village and untied my gag. Then they picked up the palanquin and left.\" Momozono sniffled; he tried to wipe his nose, but his hand flew upward, and he used the other to pull it down. \"I was terrified. I didn't know what to do, so I sat and w-waited.\n\n\"F-finally it began getting light. The v-villagers came. They d-didn't want me any more than the Imperial Court did.\" The prince gulped and blinked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I sat alone for t-two days, freezing and h-hungry and scared.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ragged sobs choked him. \"P-please excuse me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Filled with pity, Sano imagined what had happened when the villagers found Momozono." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include exactly 2 instance(s) of the word 'momozono'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Probably they'd taunted him and stoned him before leaving him to die.\n\n\"Then I b-began to feel sleepy and warm,\" Momozono said. \"I stopped caring what h-happened to me. I was on the verge of d-death. But then the m-men returned. They took me back to the palace. I was washed and fed and given a r-room in the emperor's residence. His M-majesty came in. He s-said he'd dreamed about a demon who threatened to cause a terrible p-plague unless h-he rescued me and made me his ccompanion. L-later I heard people saying he'd invented the whole story and b-brought me back to spite everyone. But I was too g-grateful to care why he'd saved me.\"\n\nHis face twisted with tics and emotion, Momozono gazed at Emperor Tomohito, who was beating his sword on the helmet of another soldier. Boyish cries arose as the battle raged on." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Because of His M-majesty, I'm allowed to live here.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He added softly, \"I've done my b-best to repay His Majesty.\"\n\nBy giving him a false alibi? Sano wondered. Whatever the emperor's motive for saving Momozono, he'd won the devotion of his cousin. Sano caught himself falling into the assumption that Momozono's affliction rendered him incapable of any worse crime than lying to protect the emperor. Momozono had revealed himself as a man of intelligence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "To have survived his ordeals, he must be stronger than he looked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Your loyalty must be of valuable help to His Majesty,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Momozono humbly shook his head, but his eyes brightened with pleasure." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Now perhaps you can help me. How well did you know Left Minister Konoe?\"\n\nThe prince hopped up and down, hooting and growling, striking out with his fists.\n\nStartled, Sano dodged the blows. \"You didn't care for the left minister, then?\"\n\nRolling his eyes, Momozono reeled backward." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Forgive me, I can't h-help myself.\"\n\n\"I think it's more than that,\" Sano said. \"What did Konoe do to you?\"\n\n\"I suppose you'll find out from someone else if I don't tell you. L-left M-minister Konoe was the one who had me locked up in the storehouse. H-he gave the order to exile me.\" Momozono looked Sano straight in the eye, and Sano fought the impulse to avert his gaze from the prince's twitching face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes, I-I hated him,\" Momozono said defiantly. \"When His Majesty and I found him dead, I rejoiced. But I didn't do it. If I'd wanted to kill him, why would I have waited t-ten years?\"\n\nHatred could fester over time, Sano knew. Momozono and the emperor shared an alibi. Which of them was it really meant to protect?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Tomohito had rescued his cousin once already." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With a self-deprecating laugh, Momozono said, \"How can you think I could k-kill anybody?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include exactly 2 instance(s) of the word 'sword'" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Just then, Emperor Tomohito waved to him from across the battlefield, calling, \"Bring me another sword!\"\n\nMomozono picked up a sword from the pile of toy weapons. He dropped it twice as he lurched toward the emperor. Watching, Sano tried and failed to imagine him as the killer. If Momozono fumbled the simplest tasks, how could he master the art of kiai?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Where would he have learned it? Perhaps he exaggerated his symptoms, but Sano still believed that the conspiracy and the murder of Left Minister Konoe were related. How could a despised outcast mount an insurrection?\n\nThe emperor spied Sano. Ignoring the sword Momozono offered him, he dropped his toy horse and swaggered over." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What do you want?\" he demanded." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kneeling, Sano bowed, honoring the churlish youth as the descendant of the gods. Had they granted his bloodline the power to manipulate cosmic forces? Had his imperial ancestors bequeathed to him the secret of kiai?\n\n\"I've come to ask you some questions,\" Sano said.\n\n\"Stand up,\" Tomohito ordered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Obeying, Sano returned the emperor's scrutiny. The armor added bulk to Tomohito's large build, and menace to his petulant, childish face. He said, \"You've got nerve coming here, after what you did. You arrested my consort! You knocked me down!\"\n\nSano noted these offenses as motives for Tomohito to want him dead.\n\n\"May lighting strike down all you Tokugawa bullies!\" the emperor shouted." }, { "from": "human", "value": "While Momozono emitted anxious yelps, Sano experienced a stab of alarm, accompanied by the urge to laugh." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The emperor had the power to invoke the wrath of the heavens, yet Tomohito's curse sounded like a child's extravagant threat. If he also commanded the power of kiai, his unbridled temper would make him all the more dangerous.\n\nSano hastened to appease the emperor: \"I regret what I did. Lady Asagao has been freed.\"\n\nBut Tomohito, with the short attention span of youth, had lost interest in the subject. \"You're a real fighter, aren't you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "he said, studying Sano with grudging admiration." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Pointing at Sano's long sword, he ordered, \"Let me see that.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano couldn't refuse an order from the emperor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He unsheathed his sword and handed it over." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"This is really nice.\" Tomohito ran a grubby finger along the blade. Suddenly he leapt backward and slashed at Sano, yelling, \"Hah!\"\n\nSano ducked just in time to escape a cut to the head. \"Careful! That's not a toy.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"N-no, Your Majesty,\" Momozono wailed.\n\nHe grabbed the emperor's arm, but Tomohito pulled away. His eyes shone with the thrill of wielding a real blade. He circled, feinted, and sliced at the air. Sano noted Tomohito's skill." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The emperor outshone many samurai of his age." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His footwork was quick, each strike gracefully executed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're pretty good, Your Majesty,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How long have you studied kenjutsu?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"All my life!\"\n\n\"Who taught you?\"\n\nThe emperor aimed a swipe at Sano's legs; when Sano jumped to avoid it, he laughed. \"The best swordsmen in Miyako.\"\n\n\"What other martial arts did they teach you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You ask too many questions!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The emperor's impressive swordsmanship meant he could discipline his energies when it suited him, and discipline was crucial to the power of kiai." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The battle your soldiers are fighting,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's the Jokyu War, isn't it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That was the war by which Emperor Go-Toba had tried to overthrow the military dictatorship. He'd summoned the Minamoto to a festival in Miyako where his army had attacked them.\n\n\"So what if it is?\" Tomohito whirled and slashed around Sano.\n\n\"Then you're not being true to history,\" Sano said, flinching as the blade came dangerously close." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Your imperial faction is beating the Minamoto.\" On the battlefield, boys in red-laced armor played dead. \"But in real life, the Minamoto defeated your ancestor. Instead of seizing power, he died in exile.\"\n\n\"If I'd been in his place, I would have won!\"\n\n\"Is it a game, or are you rehearsing for a real revolt?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The sword flew out of Tomohito's grasp." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He exclaimed in annoyance. Sano retrieved his sword and sheathed it. \"Please answer my question, Your Majesty.\"\n\nPrince Momozono had an attack of spasms. The emperor scowled. \"I just got clumsy for a moment. Of course the battle is a game, to pass the time. There's not much to do here; I get bored.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Observing Tomohito's refusal to meet his gaze, Sano said, \"Has anyone encouraged you to think about restoring power to the Imperial Court and ruling Japan yourself?\"\n\n\"Nobody tells me what to think. And I'm tired of talking. I've got better things to do.\"\n\nThe emperor and Momozono started toward the battlefield. Sano blocked their way. \"Do you know of a house in the cloth dyers' district owned by Lord Ibe of Echizen Province?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'tomohito' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't know any people or places anywhere but here,\" Tomohito said sullenly. \"I can't go outside.\"\n\nBut an accomplice could, and there was one other promising candidate for that role besides Right Minister Ichijo.\n\n\"Where were you during the second murder?\" Sano asked.\n\nJutting his chin belligerently, Tomohito said, \"I was praying in the worship hall when I heard the scream. My cousin was there, too.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano looked at Prince Momozono, whose face went into a terrible frenzy of tics." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The emperor must have sensed Sano's disbelief, because he looked uneasy and muttered, \"We have to go now. Come on, Momo-chan.\"\n\n\"W-wait,\" said the prince. \"I just remembered s-something about the n-night the left minister d-died. After the s-scream, when we were h-hurrying through the P-pond Garden, I saw a light in the c-cottage. It went out b-before we got there.\"\n\nIf this was true, then there'd been someone else at the scene of the murder. Sano looked at the emperor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes, there was a light,\" he said eagerly. \"I remember now. I saw it too.\"\n\nSano discounted the story as a lie designed to pin the crime on a mysterious unknown culprit. Watching the emperor resume his battle and Prince Momozono his station beside the arsenal, Sano tallied the results of the interview. He had Momozono's motive for the first murder, Tomohito's for the second, and a new joint alibi as flimsy as their previous one." }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'emperor' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even if the prince didn't have the power of kiai, the emperor might, and Sano was sure that the conspiracy involved Tomohito's participation. But he understood the consequences of incriminating the emperor. He envisioned Tomohito denouncing the Tokugawa regime, and the ensuing civil war. Hopefully, he could prove the guilt of a lesser person.\n\nPerhaps Lady Jokyōden was the murderer and traitor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano had planned to visit her next, but a disturbing alternative suddenly occurred to him." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He left the palace, knowing that he was risking trouble as well as seeking information." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing buddy needed! six sentences more in Laura Joh Rowland's voice. Sano Ichiro 5 genre. this is from a bigger story btw" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Jokyu War was over. The troops had dispersed, and the emperor had retired to his bathchamber. There a big, round wooden tub held cool water. Sunlight shone through latticed paper windows; white curtains decorated with the imperial crest hung over open transoms. Emperor Tomohito lay naked and motionless on a platform while attendants washed his body and hair. His eyes were closed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ritual decreed that an emperor could be groomed only while asleep, so that touching him wouldn't compromise his sacred dignity.\n\nIn a corner of the chamber sat Prince Momozono, quivering and jerking as he watched the ablutions. The attendants ignored his presence. Tomohito seemed oblivious to everything. However, Momozono could tell that he wasn't really asleep; he flinched and frowned when the attendants scrubbed too vigorously, but he knew that if he protested, his servants would immediately withdraw their attentions. Momozono waited, stifling grunts with a hand over his mouth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For months he'd tried to work up the courage to speak frankly to his cousin. He could keep quiet no longer, even though he risked offending Tomohito, because his silence could doom them both.\n\nAt last the attendants finished washing the emperor, bowed to his inert figure, and departed. Tomohito opened his eyes and sat up. \"I thought they'd never finish,\" he complained. He got off the platform and climbed into the tub, immersing himself with a sigh of contentment." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Someday I won't have to put up with people washing me like a baby.\"\n\nSomeday... It was a refrain that Momozono had heard often. He recalled an eight-year-old Tomohito trying to sneak out the palace gate, getting caught by the watchmen, and yelling, \"Someday I'll be able to go outside if I feel like it!\" Tomohito had also rebelled against studying and performing ceremonies: \"Someday no one will be able to make me do this!\"\n\nPrince Momozono heard in the words a new, serious conviction. Tomohito was no longer a young crown prince indulging in childish fantasies." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was a grown emperor, bent on making fantasy a reality. Momozono must bring him to his senses.\n\n\"Y-your Majesty... there's s-something I must say,\" he ventured timidly.\n\nTomohito sank in the water up to his chin; his long hair floated around him like a black fan. \"Go ahead.\"\n\nMore than anyone else in the court, Momozono depended upon the emperor's favor for his survival. Stalling, he said, \"Wh-what do you think of the sōsakan-sama?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He's supposed to be a great swordsman, but I bet I could beat him.\"\n\nMomozono's heart sank as he perceived the extent of his cousin's delusion. For all his skill, Tomohito was no match for a real samurai fighter. If Tomohito failed to recognize this, how could Momozono make him see the dangers he faced? Prince Momozono knew all too well who had fostered Tomohito's false sense of grandeur. Anger sent spasms through his limbs; he fought to still them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Doesn't it w-worry you that the sōsakan-sama is alive and still asking questions?\" Momozono asked anxiously." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Tomohito laughed. \"He doesn't scare me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Unable to restrain himself, Momozono burst out, \"Y-your Majesty, perhaps you should be afraid!\"\n\nThe emperor sat up in the tub, scowling. \"Are you presuming to tell me what to do?\"\n\n\"No, no!\" Momozono scuttled over to the tub, knelt, and bowed, trembling in his haste to appease his cousin. \"I-I'm only trying to p-protect you, Your Majesty.\"\n\nHe had done so before." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Tomohito had reached the age of thirteen, his unhappiness with his sheltered existence had grown unbearable." }, { "from": "human", "value": "More than ever he had yearned to experience life outside the palace, and so had befriended three roguish courtiers a few years his senior." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Momozono had watched the emperor listen to their talk of drinking in teahouses, romancing girls, and skirmishing with Miyako's ruffians, his eyes aglow with vicarious excitement. Soon he craved more active participation in the trio's fun. He began planning adventures for them. At first these were mere pranks, such as stealing fruit from the market and putting an ox calf in a firewatch tower. When the courtiers came back to the palace, Tomohito reveled in their descriptions of the stir they'd created.\n\nThen one day the emperor decided that his friends must break into the shoshidai's house and bring back some token as proof of their success." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Prince Momozono happened to be walking through the kuge quarter when the three courtiers returned from their escapade. Hidden by the darkness, he'd heard them arguing and realized that the fun had gone dreadfully wrong.\n\n\"We should never have done it!\"\n\n\"Everything would have been fine if we'd left right after getting inside and taking the shoshidai's personal seal. But no, you got greedy. You had to break open that chest and steal the gold coins.\"\n\n\"How was I supposed to know that the daughter would hear the noise and find us there?\"\n\n\"Well, you shouldn't have forced yourself on her!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I was so drunk I didn't know what I was doing.\"\n\n\"What do we tell His Majesty?\"\n\n\"Nothing. We'll say that it went perfectly. I'll hide the gold.\" The latter speaker was Lord Koremitsu, the trio's leader, the one who'd stolen the gold and raped the shoshidai's daughter. Prince Momozono was terribly jealous of Lord Koremitsu, and hated him for his bad influence on Tomohito. \"No one will ever know what we did.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The next day, however, police came to the palace." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'momozono' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They reported the theft and rape to the chief court nobles, explaining that the shoshidai's guards had chased the criminals to the imperial compound. They meant to identify and punish the culprits. Upon hearing the news, Prince Momozono was filled with dread. What if the bakufu traced the crimes to Tomohito? They wouldn't arrest him, but with this evidence of his bad character, they might force him to abdicate.\n\nMomozono couldn't let his beloved cousin risk such a calamity." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If Tomohito abdicated, the next emperor might throw Momozono out of the palace. Momozono had to make sure the bakufu found the culprit and the investigation stopped there. But he couldn't tell what he knew; the bakufu would never believe an idiot. He had to find another way.\n\nHurrying to his chambers, Momozono wrote on a sheet of paper: Lord Koremitsu is the man you're looking for. He rolled the message inside a scroll case." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'police' 3 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then he went to the kuge quarter, where the police were going to every estate, looking for the criminals. He hid around a corner and waited until they came down the passageway. Subduing his noises and spasms by sheer act of will, he threw the scroll case in the police officers' path, then fled.\n\nThe police went to Lord Koremitsu's home. When they found the gold hidden there, he confessed and revealed the names of his accomplices. To protect their families' positions at court, the young men didn't incriminate the emperor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They were exiled, and the bakufu never learned of Tomohito's role in the crimes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The emperor was safe, and so was Prince Momozono." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But soon new trouble arose." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Left Minister Konoe had posed a worse threat to the emperor than had Lord Koremitsu." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The emperor's new venture was no harmless prank, and carried a much heavier penalty than theft or assault." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Konoe's death hadn't averted the danger. The second murder had focused the sōsakan-sama's investigation more strongly on the emperor. Anonymous letters wouldn't help in this situation. Momozono's only chance of preventing disaster lay in convincing the emperor to cooperate.\n\nNow Momozono said, \"Please, y-your Majesty, I beg you to see r-reason. These are dangerous times. sōsakan Sano will keep searching for the k-killer until he's exposed every s-secret in the palace. You must be very careful and n-not give him cause for suspicion.\"\n\n\"Momo-chan, you worry too much,\" Tomohito said irritably." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🔍 Find a place to insert: \"B-but sōsakan Sano thinks we're l-lying.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The sōsakan-sama doesn't know anything.\" With a regal lift of his head, Tomohito added, \"He can't hurt me. No one can. I have the divine protection of the gods.\"\n\nStill, Momozono could tell from Sano's questions that even if he didn't know the truth, he suspected plenty. \"D-divine protection won't shield you from the Tokugawa.\"\n\n\"All we have to do is stick to our story,\" Tomohito said, \"and everything will be fine. We were playing darts together when Left Minister Konoe died. The other night I was praying in the worship hall. You were with me.\"\n\n\"B-but sōsakan Sano thinks we're l-lying.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Who cares what he thinks, when he doesn't have proof?\" The emperor laughed. \"And he'll never get any, because we were together those nights.\" He fixed a meaningful stare on Momozono. \"Weren't we?\"\n\nMomozono had no choice but to nod, agreeing to maintain their precarious claim of innocence. Yet he couldn't give up without one last attempt to sway his cousin. \"Th-this thing that you're d-doing...\" He could hardly bear to think of it, let alone call it by name." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You can't p-possibly succeed. If you go through with it, you'll d-destroy yourself and the whole Imperial Court!\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't be an idiot,\" Tomohito huffed. \"Of course I'll succeed. It's my destiny to rule Japan. And someday...\" He lay back in the tub, closed his eyes, and smiled. \"Someday soon, I'll be able to do whatever I want.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Continue with the same vibes as Laura Joh Rowland. Story might have ongoing characters/plots - work with what's given" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At Nijō Manor, Reiko awakened alone in bed. The room was bright with sunlight. The nightmares of believing Sano dead and her adventures while seeking his killer seemed far away, but they'd exhausted her, and she'd slept past noon. As she sat up, a maid entered the room, carrying her breakfast tray.\n\n\"Where is my husband?\" Reiko asked.\n\n\"He and his men have already gone out,\" said the maid.\n\n\"What about my guards and palanquin bearers?\"\n\n\"They went, too.\"\n\nReiko felt annoyed at Sano for leaving her with no means of transport. How odd that yesterday she would have given anything, endured any hardships, just to have him back, but now the minor irritations of their life together could fret her once again!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Drinking tea and eating pickled vegetables on rice, she pondered how to spend the day." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She feared that she'd compromised the investigation by involving Lady Jokyōden, and wished to make up for whatever harm she'd done, but there seemed little she could do." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A glint of light caught her eye. On the table lay one of the coins that Sano had found among Left Minister Konoe's possessions. Reiko picked up the coin and studied the fern design thoughtfully. Detectives Marume and Fukida hadn't yet managed to discover the coins' significance, but maybe she would have better luck.\n\nReiko washed, dressed, and left the inn, taking two maids for company. They walked up and down the hot, crowded streets, visiting shops and teahouses, food stalls and market-places. Everyone Reiko questioned denied having seen such a coin before. Merchants who welcomed her into their establishments turned grim and reticent when shown the coin; clerks, customers, and roving peddlers seemed afraid to look at it. After hours of futile inquiries, Reiko was baffled and frustrated.\n\n\"Everyone's lying,\" she said to her maids." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"There's something strange going on.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "They stopped at a restaurant that sold tea and cold noodles." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A teenaged servant girl with a plain, friendly face brought their food." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "While they ate, Reiko noticed her watching them. When she knelt to refill Reiko's tea bowl, she whispered, \"May I please speak to you?\"\n\nCurious, Reiko nodded.\n\nThe girl cast a furtive look toward the kitchen, where an elderly couple tended pots boiling on the stove. \"I heard that you were asking about coins with a fern leaf on them,\" she said, still whispering. \"Please excuse me if I seem rude, but you must be a newcomer, so I have to warn you that no one here talks of such things, and you shouldn't, either.\"\n\n\"Why not?\" Reiko asked.\n\n\"Because it's dangerous.\" The girl leaned closer and said, \"The fern leaf is the crest of the Dazai clan. They're very bad men—thieves, hoodlums, murderers. They come to businesses like this and demand money, and they beat up shopkeepers who won't pay." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They kidnap girls to work in their unlicensed brothels." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They run gambling dens, and if you don't pay your debts, they torture you.\n\n\"They're very powerful, very much feared. It's no use reporting them to the police, because they bribe the police to leave them alone. They kill anyone who makes trouble for them. Even to speak of the Dazai is bad luck.\"\n\n\"Mayumi-chan!\" called the man in the kitchen. \"Stop bothering the customers. Get back to work!\"\n\n\"Excuse me, I must go.\" The girl bowed. Before hurrying away, she whispered, \"Please heed my warning, for your own good.\"\n\nReiko sat mulling over what she'd just heard. Why did the Dazai clan mint coins bearing their crest? How had Left Minister Konoe come to possess the coins? Perhaps he'd been spying on the Dazai." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko recalled the thugs she'd seen at Lord Ibe's house." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Were they members of the Dazai and a link between Konoe's murder and the plot against the Tokugawa? Reiko shared Sano's belief that the coins were a critical element in the mystery, but how would she discover their meaning if everyone in Miyako refused to talk about them or the Dazai?" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Narrative Continuation Protocol:\nQuantity: 5 sentences\nStyle: Laura Joh Rowland\nGenre: Sano Ichiro 5\nContext: Part of larger work" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The five-hundred-year-old temple of Sanjūsangendō was located in Miyako's southern sector, near the east bank of the Kamo River." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Worshippers and priests thronged the precinct around its halls, shrines, and pagoda. Gongs clanged; children romped. Sano stood alone inside the vermilion east gate, watching the activity while he questioned the wisdom of coming.\n\nHe needed information that Left Minister Konoe had probably concealed from the Imperial Court but might have confided to someone outside the palace, however little she'd welcomed his confidences. Hence, Sano had gone to Kodai Temple in search of Kozeri, but his rising agitation forced him to recognize that he wanted more than just answers from her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He told himself that his pursuit of the truth required him to withstand his attraction to Kozeri.\n\nUpon reaching the convent, he learned that she'd gone out begging for alms at Sanjūsangendō. Her absence was a good excuse to avoid her, yet he needed evidence to connect the rebel conspiracy with the murder case. Now he walked through the precinct to the main hall. This was brightly painted, with red pillars, white walls, green window gratings, blue and yellow trim." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Inside stretched a room like a cavernous tunnel, broken only by huge wooden pillars." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano followed worshippers whose murmurs echoed to a high, beamed ceiling, alongside an altar that extended the length of the room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Candles and incense sticks burned on stands. Behind these loomed statues of wind and thunder gods. Above them, rising in eleven tiers like a golden army, stood the famous thousand and one statues of the goddess Kannon.\n\nThe flickering candlelight animated the figures and their serene faces crowned by spiked haloes. Their many hands, which held flowers, knives, skulls, and prayer wheels, seemed to flex and gesture." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When Sano emerged into the searing sunlight of the courtyard, he saw three nuns in hemp robes and wicker hats, carrying wooden begging bowls. Kozeri stood in the middle. Surprise and pleasure lit her lovely eyes.\n\n\"Good afternoon, sōsakan-sama,\" she said.\n\nHer presence kindled a dark excitement in Sano." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was a witness with information he wanted, but he mustn't let her inspire dangerous thoughts.\n\nWith a shy smile, Kozeri said, \"What brings you to Sanjūsangendō? ;\n\n\"I was looking for you.\" Seeing a blush color Kozeri's cheeks, Sano understood that she'd craved another meeting as much as he; she welcomed his words as a sign of his interest in her. Flattered, Sano condemned himself as a vain, selfish boor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That he should forsake his wife to enjoy a nun's affections!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Actually, I have more questions to ask you,\" he said, trying to sound businesslike. \"About Left Minister Konoe.\"\n\n\"Oh. I see.\" Although Kozeri kept smiling, disappointment and caution extinguished the light in her face. She inclined her head. \"All right.\"\n\n\"Is there someplace we can talk?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano asked, surveying the busy temple grounds." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Without meeting his gaze, Kozeri nodded. She said to her companions, \"Please excuse me.\"\n\n\"Perhaps we should stay with you,\" said the older of the two nuns, eyeing Sano shrewdly.\n\nPerhaps you should, thought Sano as his heart jumped at the chance to be alone with Kozeri. But when she told the nuns, \"It's all right, I'll be back soon,\" he let them go." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He and Kozeri left the temple and strolled down an avenue bordered by the villas of imperial nobles who could afford second homes outside the palace." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Past them moved palanquins carrying courtiers and ladies." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Trees swayed, dappling the street with shadows." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kozeri walked with arms clasped around her begging bowl and her head bowed beneath her hat.\n\n\"I need to know about the last time you saw Left Minister Konoe,\" Sano said. \"What did he say?\"\n\n\"Nothing... That is, nothing except the same kind of things he said in his letters.\" Kozeri's voice was low but steady; perhaps she, too, felt more at ease with an impersonal subject between them." }, { "from": "system", "value": "can you add this somewhere in your response:\n\"I haven't had a real conversation with my former husband in years.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I haven't had a real conversation with my former husband in years.\"\n\nSano sympathized with her unwillingness to discuss a painful subject, but instinct told him that the encounter was important to the case. \"Let's go over everything that happened,\" he said. \"Start with the left minister's arrival at Kodai Temple.\"\n\nThe brim of her hat bobbed as Kozeri reluctantly nodded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She kept her eyes on the ground as they walked, perhaps embarrassed by the curiosity of passersby who stared at the rare sight of a nun and a samurai walking together." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In spite of himself, Sano wished she would look at him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It was early morning,\" Kozeri said. \"Another nun and I were sweeping the veranda when he came. He said, 'Kozeri, you're as beautiful as you were when we married fifteen years ago. You never seem to age.' I dropped my broom and backed away, but he came up the steps toward me. He was smiling. I told the other nun to go get help." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He said, 'I'm so glad to see you. Can't you at least act glad to see me?'\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The memory of fear echoed in Kozeri's voice. \"Then he started getting angry. He said he knew my heart better than I did, and I should realize that I loved him. He began talking about... things he wanted to do to me.\" Kozeri lifted a pleading gaze to Sano; her ivory complexion turned pink with shame. \"Must I repeat them?\"\n\n\"No, that's not necessary,\" Sano said hastily. \"What happened next?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kozeri sighed. \"This is very difficult...\"\n\n\"I understand,\" Sano said. \"Take your time.\"\n\nToo late he noticed that they'd left the busy streets and were nearing the river. Willows lined the bank. Their arching boughs formed caves of shadow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Between the gnarled tree trunks, sunlight glinted on the water, but the foliage hid the far bank." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The slope of the ground blocked Sano's view of the houses behind him; the ripple of the water drowned out traffic sounds." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It seemed as though the city and everyone else in the world had vanished." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano was about to suggest that they return to Sanjūsangendō when Kozeri descended the riverbank and set down her begging bowl." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The left minister trapped me against the wall. He grabbed my shoulders.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She stood with her back pressed to a willow, hands clenched at her sides, pantomiming her story. \"Then some priests came and took him away.\" A sigh of relief eased from her; she ran her hands down her breasts and hips, as if to assure herself that Konoe hadn't hurt her.\n\nWatching, Sano felt a shameful burgeoning of desire, and an unwelcome understanding of the left minister's obsession with Kozeri. She seemed so innocent, yet overwhelmingly seductive." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano tasted danger and excitement. His heart was racing, his breathing quick. He smelled decaying vegetation and the river's marshy scent; mossy ground yielded beneath his feet as he went to stand by Kozeri. He felt the vague, uneasy confusion that he'd experienced during his first interview with her. What was he forgetting to ask?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kozeri turned toward him. A nervous smile hovered upon her lips. Sano wondered whether she'd brought him here deliberately. Were her feelings as mixed as his own? Her eyes shone fever-bright, and under the loose robe, her breasts rose and fell with rapid breaths." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She looked scared; she also looked like a woman erotically aroused. Sano felt his own body respond.\n\nTo hide his distress, he said, \"What else happened?\"\n\n\"That was all.\" Then a thoughtful look came into Kozeri's eyes. \"Wait... I'd forgotten. When the left minister was forced to leave the temple, he shouted at me. I don't remember his exact words, but they went like this: 'Soon you'll realize that you made a terrible mistake by leaving me. I'm on the verge of the greatest accomplishment of my life. Soon every man shall do my bidding, every woman desire my favor. You shall be so impressed that you'll return to me at last!'\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What do you think he meant?\" Sano asked, intrigued.\n\n\"He always wanted to be imperial prime minister,\" Kozeri said. \"I assumed that he was finally going to get the post.\"\n\nA promotion would have given him greater prestige at court, but Sano believed Konoe had learned the murderer's secret and planned to apply it toward a different sort of 'accomplishment' that would win him power, wealth, and Kozeri's esteem. Yet once again, the sense of a gap in the case bothered Sano, although Chamberlain Yanagisawa had supplied much of the missing information." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kozeri stood watching him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her hand wandered up to pat her lips, then clasp her throat. Her sensual habit of caressing herself provoked in Sano an almost irresistible urge to touch her. \"The other nuns will be wondering what happened to me,\" she said.\n\nSano noticed that the afternoon sun had descended in the sky, sheening the river with bronze. The shadows under the willows had deepened." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Above the water's incessant rush hummed a prenocturnal chorus of insects. Sano had the evidence he'd come for; he should go back to the Imperial Palace and finish his inquiries, or find out what had come of Chamberlain Yanagisawa's raid on Lord Ibe's estate.\n\n\"Yes,\" he said, \"we should go.\"\n\nYet neither he nor Kozeri moved. Her eyes filled with panicky anticipation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Go on and have her, whispered a demon inside Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Other men do this all the time; there's no need to feel guilty." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko doesn't have to know." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano walked slowly toward Kozeri. She gave a frightened whimper, but made no effort to stop him. Now he stood close enough to hear her breathing in sharp hisses and see the saliva gleam on her quivering lips. His hands lifted. This was wrong. He loved Reiko, whom he'd already hurt badly by faking his death." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He ached with his need for Kozeri." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hands poised above her shoulders and their faces almost touching, Sano saw his inner turmoil reflected in her eyes. As a nun, she would have taken a vow of celibacy, but she was a sensual woman who'd lived fifteen years without a man. Sano could see her trembling with repressed hunger. Forcing himself to think of Reiko, he only realized a disturbing truth about his nature. A part of him was drawn to women with an aura of tragedy, whose spirits carried the same veins of darkness as his own." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Women like Aoi, the ninja spy he'd fallen in love with during his first case as the shogun's investigator." }, { "from": "human", "value": "And Sano knew that Reiko, with her bright personality, could never quite satisfy the dark part of him, no matter how much they loved each other." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Suddenly Kozeri moaned, a sound of utter, passionate submission." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tilting her head, she laid her cheek on Sano's hand, eyes closed and lips parted. The feel of her hot, moist skin thrilled Sano. With his other hand he stroked the nape of her neck, that most erotic visible part of a woman's body. Letting his fingers trail slowly down Kozeri's back, he drew her closer to him.\n\nShe moaned louder and pressed herself against him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For a moment, Sano swooned with pleasure." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then horror jolted him from dazed lust and into awareness that he'd taken the first step toward forbidden sex." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now his desire filled him with revulsion." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With an anguished cry, he pulled away from Kozeri." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She stared in surprise. \"What's wrong?\"\n\nRaising his hands in a gesture of helpless apology, Sano shook his head and said, \"I'm sorry.\"\n\n\"Don't you want me?\" Tears welled in Kozeri's eyes.\n\n\"I can't do this,\" Sano said. Turning, he fled as if pursued by an invading army." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Continue with the same vibes as Laura Joh Rowland. Story might have ongoing characters/plots - work with what's given" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'through' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At Kodai Temple, the afternoon had passed in its unvarying routine of prayers and chores; the nuns had returned from begging in the city, and evening rites had begun. While bells tolled across Miyako, the setting sun poured fiery light through the windows of the convent dormitory. There knelt the nuns, heads shaven, completely naked. In three rows, firm young bodies alternated with those of older women with sagging flesh. They faced the abbess, who sat upon a platform at the front of the room.\n\n\"Breathe deeply,\" intoned the abbess. She sucked air through her mouth. \"In. Out. Gather the energy within you.\"\n\nAt her place in the middle row, Kozeri inhaled the musky smell of the women whose breaths echoed her own. She tried to let her mind drift and feel the energy kindle inside her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For fifteen years she'd practiced this exercise, designed to focus her mental power and bring spiritual enlightenment." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Usually she slipped into a trance easily, but tonight the required concentration evaded her. The shogun's sōsakan had disturbed her inner harmony. Scenes from the past invaded the darkness behind her closed eyelids.\n\nShe saw the garden of her family's mansion, the secluded paradise of her youth. Again she ran laughing through the spring rains, hot summers, autumn leaves, and winter snows with her favorite cousin and playmate, Lord Ryōzen. As the years passed, Kozeri became a beautiful young woman, Ryōzen a handsome youth; friendship evolved into romance. Their families approved of the match, which would strengthen the connection between two noble clans. At age fifteen, Kozeri and Ryōzen knelt before the Shinto priest and sipped the ritual three wedding cups of sake.\n\nKozeri spent happy days making a home for Ryōzen, while he worked as secretary to Left Minister Konoe. In the evenings they entertained themselves with music, poetry, and lovemaking." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Soon Kozeri was pregnant. Then, five months later, things went suddenly, terribly wrong. Kozeri was resting in her room one afternoon when her mother entered.\n\n\"Daughter,\" said the older woman, her face woeful, \"I bring terrible news. Ryōzen is dead. Someone stabbed him.\"\n\nKozeri shook her head in disbelief. \"But I just saw him this morning. There must be some mistake.\"\n\n\"There is no mistake,\" her mother said sorrowfully.\n\n\"No!\" Kozeri stumbled from the house and met servants bringing in a blanket-covered figure on a litter. Tearing off the blanket, she saw her husband's still, pale face. She burst into a torrent of weeping." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then an excruciating cramp convulsed her stomach." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kozeri screamed and fell. More pains wracked her. She heard her mother calling, \"She's in labor! Fetch the doctor!\"\n\nMany agonizing hours later, Kozeri delivered a dead baby boy. She lost much blood; fever followed the stillbirth. Ten months passed before Kozeri rose from her bed. She sat listlessly in the garden, pining for Ryōzen. Then one day her father came to her.\n\n\"It is time to consider your future,\" he said. \"Left Minister Konoe has asked for your hand in marriage, and I have consented.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now the sonorous voice of the abbess drew Kozeri back to the present: \"Feel the energy flow from your center to every part of your body. Let us seal the power inside us.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kozeri opened her eyes and saw the abbess holding a long strip of cloth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She picked up a similar cloth from the floor beside her. Imitating the abbess's movements, she wrapped it tightly around her stomach. The other nuns did the same. In the dying sunlight, their faces shone with a tranquillity she envied.\n\n\"Lean forward, head and shoulders down,\" said the abbess. \"Align your nose with your navel. Relax. And breathe, slowly. One, two...\"\n\nWith the cloth compressing her muscles, Kozeri inhaled and exhaled, silently counting toward four hundred breaths. Briefly she resisted the memories, then let them come...\n\nShe hadn't wanted to remarry, but it was her duty to obey her father, who craved the prestige the new match would bring to their clan. Hence, she wedded Left Minister Konoe." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was a virtual stranger; his rank and wealth awed her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "During the ceremony, she dared not even look at him, and their wedding night proved an inauspicious beginning for the marriage.\n\nIn the bedchamber, Konoe tenderly undressed her. \"Don't worry, I'll be gentle,\" he said.\n\nKozeri knew she should show gratitude toward him for rescuing her from widowhood, yet she couldn't help recalling Ryōzen, and their happiness together. Tears burned her eyes. Feeling no desire for Konoe, she endured his caresses; she let him mount her. But when he pushed his erection against her womanhood, her inner muscles clenched shut. Konoe thrust and panted, but couldn't get in. Pain overcame Kozeri's self-control. The tears spilled.\n\nKonoe forced a smile and said, \"It's been a strenuous day. Let us sleep now, and begin over tomorrow.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He spent all his free time with Kozeri, and much money on gifts and amusements for her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "All the palace ladies envied Kozeri, but the left minister seemed so grand that she couldn't get over her shyness. When he talked, she could manage only timid monosyllables in reply. Further attempts to consummate their marriage failed, and Konoe began to express his dissatisfaction in frightening ways.\n\nEvery evening he would ask, \"What did you do today? Whom did you see?\" and make Kozeri account for every moment of their time apart. He forbade her to go anywhere without him. He dropped in on her during the day, as if to catch her doing something wrong. He would not allow her to receive guests. Besides Konoe and his staff, the only people Kozeri saw were her elderly music, calligraphy, and painting teachers.\n\nIsolated and lonely, she began to resent her husband." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He sensed her antipathy and punished her with cutting remarks, violent acts." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Once, in a fit of rage, he tore up all her clothes.\n\n\"Ungrateful wretch!\" he shouted, stripping her naked and throwing her out in the snowy garden. \"Freeze out there until you can show some affection for your husband!\"\n\nThe next day he apologized profusely and bought Kozeri a new wardrobe. Her husband seemed to be two different people: his normal, public self, and the monster who ruled her. Kozeri's fear worsened their marital relations. She would have gladly let the left minister enter her, if only to pacify him, but her womanhood closed up whenever he tried. Furious, Konoe abandoned the gentle, patient approach. He fed Kozeri aphrodisiacs. He slathered oil on her crotch, prying at the threshold with wooden implements." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her pained cries further incensed him." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'don't' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Muttering curses, he drove his organ at her like a battering ram.\n\nOne night, after another failure, he said, \"It's no use. You don't want me. You don't love me. And you never will.\"\n\nRising, he donned his dressing gown and stood looking down at Kozeri, his face taut with angry frustration. While she cowered, he said, \"For love of you, I committed a heinous act. I risked my position and my honor, sacrificed my tranquillity and freedom. All for nothing!\"\n\nHe left the room, and a horrifying thought took shape in Kozeri's mind. His words showed her the past in a different perspective. Little things, hardly noticed at the time, now took on an ominous significance. She recalled Ryōzen remarking, \"The left minister enjoys hearing about how we play music together.\" Indeed he seemed eager for any information regarding their personal life, and Kozeri had been pleased by what she thought was his interest in Ryōzen, whose career would benefit from Konoe's patronage. She remembered the left minister's frequent visits to their home, and ceremonies where his brooding gaze followed them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now Kozeri understood that she, not her husband, had been the real focus of Konoe's attention all along." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd fallen in love with her while she was still married to Ryōzen. The police had never caught Ryōzen's killer; they couldn't find anyone with reason to wish him dead. Left Minister Konoe could have stolen Kozeri from Ryōzen by simply ordering them to divorce and commanding her to marry him; thus, no one had suspected Konoe of the murder, even though he benefited by her widowhood. But Kozeri knew his jealous nature. He wouldn't have wanted her first husband around as a rival for her love, so he'd \"committed a heinous act.\"\n\nLeft Minister Konoe had murdered Ryōzen.\n\nNow the four hundred breaths ended. The abbess began to chant: \"Namu Amida Butsu. Namu Amida Butsu.\"\n\n\"Namu Amida Butsu,\" Kozeri repeated along with the other nuns. Their voices rang with joyous conviction; hers sounded hollow as she remembered the horror of her discovery, and the confusion that followed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nobody would believe her if she accused Konoe of murder; he was too important and respected. The Imperial Court wouldn't let her go to the police. Her family wouldn't risk Konoe's disapproval by taking her side. Kozeri must hide her emotions and keep peace with the left minister.\n\nBut nothing she said or did pleased him. He grew more brutal in his efforts to penetrate her, and he watched her ever more closely. Then, shortly before their first anniversary, Kozeri's samisen teacher died. The new one who came to give her lessons was a courtier in his twenties, nicknamed \"Saru\"—Monkey—because of his talent for mimicry. With his lopsided smile and bulging eyes, he wasn't handsome, but he was kind. Perceiving Kozeri's unhappiness, Saru made her laugh at his imitations of animals and people." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For the first time since Ryōzen's death, Kozeri found pleasure in life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She had a friend." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then one evening Konoe stormed into her chamber, his face livid with rage. He grabbed Kozeri and threw her against the wall.\n\n\"Adulteress!\" he yelled, slapping her face. \"Dirty whore!\"\n\nKozeri cried, \"What are you talking about, husband?\"\n\n\"Don't pretend you don't understand,\" he said. \"Every day you whisper and laugh with him. I know, because I've listened outside the door. He's your lover. Don't deny it!\"\n\nHe meant Saru! Kozeri was shocked. She had no romantic interest in the music teacher. Besides, Saru was happily married. \"No,\" she protested.\n\n\"Liar!\" Konoe kicked her stomach." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She fell and curled up; he kicked her head. \"I heard you two mocking me. I've thrown him and his family out of the palace. They'll starve to death in the streets.\"\n\nKozeri realized that her husband had eavesdropped on Saru's caustic imitation of him. \"I'm sorry!\" she cried. \"Please!\"\n\nHis fists battered her. Blood poured from her nose. She screamed as Konoe ripped handfuls of hair from her head. Cursing, he picked up her samisen and beat her with it. At last he stood back, hateful triumph in his face.\n\n\"I trust you've learned your lesson,\" he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Despair emboldened Kozeri. She said bitterly, \"Why don't you just kill me, the way you did Ryōzen?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For a long, awful moment she and Konoe stared at each other. She saw the truth of her accusation in his eyes. Anger flared in them, and she braced herself for another attack. Then he shook his head, turned, and walked away.\n\nKozeri wept. When the tears subsided, a calm clarity settled upon her mind. She understood that Konoe meant to continue trying to force her to love him. His cruelty would worsen until eventually he lost control and killed her. Kozeri's religious upbringing had taught her to accept fate; yearning for Ryōzen, she considered suicide to escape misery and hasten her reunion with him. But part of her didn't want to die. Bruised, bloody, and aching, she packed a bundle of the new robes Konoe had given her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She fled to Kodai Temple, where her family had once taken refuge during a fire in the palace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The convent was a haven for maltreated women with religious leanings. The nuns took her in, accepting her wardrobe as a dowry. Kozeri imagined herself safe from the left minister forever.\n\nA month later, Konoe burst into the convent, interrupting the novices' prayers. \"I've searched all over for you,\" he shouted at Kozeri. \"Now you're coming home with me!\" He would have grabbed her, had not monks overpowered him. As they dragged him out of the temple, he shrieked, \"I'll get you. You can't hide!\"\n\nHe came again and again, sending letters between visits. When the nuns begged for alms in the city, Konoe accosted her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sometimes he pleaded, apologizing for his behavior. Often he threatened to kill her if she didn't return to him. Sometimes Kozeri heard nothing from him for months; just when she began to believe he'd given up, he would reappear and the letters resume. In spite of her gentle nature, Kozeri hated the left minister. He'd destroyed her life, driven her from home and family. Why couldn't he leave her alone? She longed for his death, and an end to her misery.\n\nShe'd gotten her wish. But now, worse troubles threatened. She was a suspect in Konoe's murder; sōsakan Sano's questions had made it obvious." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What if he found out how the left minister had treated her?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Still, arrest wasn't the only thing she feared from Sano. His coming to Kodai Temple had shattered the calm she'd achieved through prayer and meditation. He'd awakened old emotions, suppressed longings.\n\nIn seeking a religious life, Kozeri had fled not just the left minister. Because her second marriage had overshadowed the happy memory of her first, she'd wanted nothing more to do with men. The need for peace outweighed all other desires. For years she'd been satisfied with having food, shelter, her faith, and the other nuns for company. But Sano had awakened a response in her; desire for him had stirred Kozeri's body to life. He'd aroused in her a powerful renewed need for the love of a man. She wanted to know Sano and continue the lovemaking they'd begun by the river today; yet although she longed to see him again, she dreaded the prospect." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Now stand,\" said the abbess, rising slowly." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 8 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Mouth shut, chin drawn in, spine straight. Keep breathing; look straight ahead. Clear vision equals a clear conscience.\"\n\nThe nuns rose. Kozeri envisioned their consciences as clear water, hers as a dust storm. She possessed knowledge that could help Sano solve the case, but she also had dangerous secrets to keep. Telling the truth could jeopardize her life; love could destroy her hard-won peace. She'd not only lied to Sano, but this exercise she was performing had equipped her with a weapon that she'd used against him in self-defense. If he discovered the nature of the weapon, he would charge her with murder. Kozeri didn't know what would come of their acquaintance, but his duty, and their mutual attraction, had ensured one outcome.\n\nSano would be back." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for eight sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Clad in a dressing gown, her freshly washed hair sleek and wet, Reiko walked from the bathchamber at Nijō Manor to her room and found that Sano had returned." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was seated on the floor, sorting through the boxes of papers from Left Minister Konoe's office that Chamberlain Yanagisawa had just sent. He greeted her with a quick nod, then continued perusing documents.\n\n\"I was starting to worry about you,\" Reiko said, kneeling beside him. Night had fallen; the inn's guests had already retired. \"Shall I order your dinner?\"\n\n\"No, thank you,\" Sano said, frowning at a letter in his hand. \"I stopped at a food stall, so I'm not hungry.\"\n\n\"Well, I'm glad you're back.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Puzzled by his curt manner, Reiko said, \"Guess what: I've learned something about the fern-leaf coins.\" She described how she'd made inquiries and connected the coins to the Dazai gangster clan.\n\n\"That's a good lead,\" Sano said. He stopped his work and looked at her, yet Reiko would have appreciated a little more enthusiasm from him. \"But Left Minister Konoe might have been spying on the Dazai for some purpose not connected to the imperial restoration plot, or his murder.\"\n\n\"That's true.\" Although she understood the need for objectivity, Reiko was disappointed by Sano's skepticism. \"What did you learn today?\"\n\n\"I just came from Nijō Castle,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Chamberlain Yanagisawa raided Lord Ibe's house, but the outlaws and weapons were gone. He's leading a search for them. Unfortunately, he's located Yoriki Hoshina, as Marume and Fukida have just informed me. I've had Hoshina transferred to a new hiding place, but it may be just a matter of time before Yanagisawa finds him again. Earlier, I questioned Right Minister Ichijo, Emperor Tomohito, and Prince Momozono.\" Sano described the interviews, then said, \"Either Ichijo or the emperor could have the power of kiai; either or both could be involved in the imperial restoration plot. They both have alibis that don't convince me, but would be hard to disprove.\"\n\n\"What about Lady Jokyōden?\" Reiko said.\n\nSano's gaze strayed to the scrolls that lay in stacks around him. \"I haven't had a chance to see her yet.\"\n\n\"Why not?\" Reiko was surprised because he'd been gone long enough, and she thought he would have called on all the suspects while at the palace. She was also anxious to know whether Jokyōden could have committed the second murder. A solid alibi would clear Jokyōden of suspicion and ease Reiko's fear that she'd made a mistake by trusting the woman." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I went to see Kozeri.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now Sano resumed sorting through papers with intent concentration." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Again? Why?\"\n\n\"I wanted to know about Konoe's last visit to her.\" Without looking up from his work, Sano said, \"She saw Konoe shortly before his death. He told her he was on the verge of a great accomplishment. This suggests that he'd discovered the conspiracy and planned to report it to the bakufu, with the expectation of getting a big reward.\"\n\nHis reason for taking the time to see the nun seemed flimsy to Reiko, and the diversion uncharacteristic of Sano. \"Yes, that does indicate that Konoe knew about the plot,\" she said, \"but Kozeri's not really a suspect, is she? There were no outsiders in the palace during Konoe's murder, and when Chamberlain Yanagisawa set you up to be murdered, he didn't notify Kozeri of the opportunity to kill you.\"\n\n\"Kozeri's story substantiates my theory about the killer's motive, which is critical to solving the case. She's an important witness, so I went to see her. I'll talk to Lady Jokyōden tomorrow.\" Irritation tightened Sano's voice. \"Why can't you respect my judgment?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He'd been short-tempered the night before last, and for as little apparent reason as now, Reiko remembered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Are you angry at me because I went around asking about the coins?\" she said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm not angry,\" Sano snapped." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Then what's wrong?\" Now Reiko realized that he'd behaved this way after seeing Kozeri the first time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Did Kozeri say or do something to upset you?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'reiko' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Of course not,\" Sano said in a defensive, unconvincing tone. \"I already told you what happened. If I'm upset, it's because you question everything I do.\"\n\nA sharp prick of suspicion disturbed Reiko. But no, she had absolute confidence in Sano's fidelity. Although other husbands took lovers and mistresses, he'd never given her reason to think him interested in another woman.\n\nShamed by her suspicion, Reiko said, \"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you.\"\n\nSano nodded, dismissing her apology. He compared the note she'd found in the charcoal brazier beside a letter from Konoe's personal files." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "hey can u write four sentences more sentences? like Laura Joh Rowland but Sano Ichiro 5 style. btw this is from middle of a story" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I hope you don't mind if I work while we talk,\" Lady Jokyōden said to Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No matter what misfortunes befall us, we must still observe the rites of Obon.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Please, go right ahead,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was morning, and they were in the Buddhist chapel of Jokyōden's residence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The rain doors were raised; the wind wafted a bitter tang of smoke into the room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "On a platform in a recessed niche sat a gilded Buddha statue surrounded by gold lotus flowers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Many narrow alcoves each held a table containing a vase for flowers, an incense burner, and a butsudan—memorial shrine—in the form of a small cabinet. From the ceiling hung trappings of the Festival of the Dead: plaited white paper strips, toys once owned by deceased children, and a mask of Otafuku, a deity of fortune.\n\nLady Jokyōden knelt on the tatami floor amid supplies for her Obon preparations and untied the cord around a stack of straw mats. Sano, standing nearby, noted that Jokyōden seemed unperturbed by his unannounced arrival." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd politely acquiesced to an interview and didn't seem to mind being alone with him, but she waited for him to speak first." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Where were you during the murder three nights ago?\" Sano asked.\n\nSerenely indifferent, Jokyōden began setting mats under the butsudan. There was no hint of mystical power about her, and Sano thought it unlikely that rigorous martial arts training would have been wasted on a woman. While still on his guard, he felt less apprehension than while interviewing Right Minister Ichijo and Emperor Tomohito." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I can't remember,\" Jokyōden said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Perplexed, Sano said, \"Surely you have some idea.\"\n\n\"I am afraid I do not.\"\n\n\"The murder happened just before midnight,\" Sano said. \"What were you doing then?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Busy with her task, Jokyōden gave him a demure glance from beneath lowered eyelids." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I really don't know.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano was more inclined to believe that she preferred not to say." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She certainly wasn't the fool that she sounded. Whether innocent or guilty, why didn't she just present a plausible lie instead of such a ridiculous claim?\n\n\"Did you go near the kitchens?\" Sano asked.\n\n\"Perhaps... perhaps not.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And why not just place herself elsewhere, away from the murder scene? \"Did you see or talk to anybody?\" Sano persisted. \"Is there anybody who might have seen you?\"\n\n\"I don't recall whether I saw or spoke with anyone.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Having finished with the mats, Jokyōden filled the alcove vases with water from a spouted jar." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her movements were precise; she didn't spill a drop." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You will have to ask the other palace residents whether they saw me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nettled by her impervious calm, Sano said, \"You can't really expect me to believe that you've forgotten everything about that night.\"\n\nShe turned to him with a bland smile. \"I expect nothing. But I beg you to excuse this humble woman for her poor memory.\"\n\nDuring past investigations, Sano had met suspects who'd obstructed him by pretending ignorance, but none had carried it off as smoothly as Lady Jokyōden." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What a maddening woman! Still, he admired her nerve.\n\nThen Jokyōden said, \"In my opinion, the world is a better place with one less despicable Tokugawa samurai. Your treatment of the emperor was a disgrace.\" Frowning, Jokyōden arranged fresh lotus flowers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You dishonored the entire Imperial Court. It was an insult that begged revenge.\"\n\nSano stared at Jokyōden in amazement. After refusing to tell her whereabouts at the time of the murder, she'd just handed him her motive for wanting him dead! What was she up to?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's understandable that you don't care for me,\" he said, \"but perhaps you found Left Minister Konoe more compatible.\"\n\n\"Why do you say that?\" Jokyōden said in a tone of polite curiosity.\n\n\"You knew about the house he'd secretly purchased, which indicates a more than superficial acquaintance with him.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano ventured a bold guess: \"Were you and he lovers?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jokyōden gasped and dropped the vase she was holding." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It broke on the floor; lotuses scattered and water splashed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With a moan of distress, she grabbed a cloth and began cleaning up the water.\n\n\"Here, let me help.\" Sano gathered up the fallen blossoms, gratified to see that he'd shaken Jokyōden's composure at last.\n\n\"Thank you,\" she murmured." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She inserted the flowers in a new vase and placed it carefully on an altar. Then she stood and faced Sano. \"So your wife told you my secret, even though she promised me her discretion? No? But of course, you are clever enough to have guessed.\" Jokyōden's expression was strained." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, the left minister and I were once lovers.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then Reiko had known, Sano thought; yet instead of telling him, she'd kept silent. Sano was furious at Reiko, but he welcomed the news of her duplicity, as if it somehow excused his own behavior with Kozeri.\n\nJokyōden said sadly, \"My husband is not the most stimulating companion, and his nature requires me to perform many of his duties. My work brought me into close contact with Left Minister Konoe. He was attractive and unmarried. We had many interests in common. I was lonely. Eventually, friendship led to romance. But the romance did not last.\"\n\n\"Why not?\" Sano said, making an effort to forget his personal problems and concentrate on Jokyōden." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"In the beginning, the left minister seemed wonderful. He praised me, brought me gifts, made me feel cherished and important. I fell in love with him. But soon he changed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He lost his temper if I disagreed with him on court policy. He pressured me to put my husband's official seal on documents that would give him more authority. When I refused...\" Jokyōden blinked, swallowed, then said, \"He had other women. And he was always busy with Tomohito, talking to him, supervising his lessons, rehearsing him for ceremonies, and playing games with him, while ignoring me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Finally I told the left minister that I wanted to end our liaison. I expected him to object, apologize, and ask for another chance, but he just said he'd never really wanted me; he'd used me to gain more influence over the court. And he didn't need me any longer because he'd won Tomohito's confidence. His affection had been a pure sham. I was terribly hurt and made a hysterical scene.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Abruptly Lady Jokyōden knelt by a tray of covered dishes. She lifted the lids, revealing traditional Obon foods: noodles, rice cooked with lotus petals, dumplings, sweet cakes, pickled eggplant, and fruit. With extreme care, she picked up a pair of chopsticks and divided the food onto small platters made of unglazed red earthenware. Sano thought he saw tears gleam in her eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So although I once cared very much for the left minister, it would be hypocritical for me to say that I regret his death. After our romance ended, I still had to work with him as usual. His presence was a constant reminder of my own foolishness. I wanted never to see him again.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Arranging noodles on a platter, she drew a tremulous breath. \"His death granted my wish.\"\n\nRevenge on a cruel lover was a powerful motive for murder, yet something about Jokyōden's confession bothered Sano. Convincing as it sounded, he couldn't quite imagine her falling for such a transparent scheme, and once again, she'd volunteered information too readily." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dropping the vase had seemed too melodramatic for a woman as poised as Jokyōden. Now Sano wondered whether she and Konoe ever had been lovers, or quarreled. But if not, then why lie and incriminate herself further?\n\nSano said, \"I understand that you manage the affairs of the imperial family. You must have a remarkable talent for business.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're too generous. My poor efforts hardly deserve praise.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "An air of waiting stillness came over Jokyōden, although her hands continued filling dishes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So it would be humiliating to fall under the domination of someone less worthy or capable than yourself.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Humiliation was the ultimate result of my affair with the left minister, yes.\" Rising, Jokyōden began setting food platters on each altar as offerings to the spirits of the dead. She gave Sano an oblique glance, as if not sure what he was getting at, but sensing a trap.\n\n\"And now, with Left Minister Konoe gone, you're free from his interference,\" Sano said, walking beside Jokyōden." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required word frequency: 'resent' (2x)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But how free can you really be, while the Imperial Court is ruled by the bakufu? Do you ever resent its domination?\"\n\n\"Why resent a circumstance that is beyond my control?\" A note of puzzlement crept into Jokyōden's voice. \"That would be a waste of energy.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Not if you thought you could change your circumstances,\" Sano said, handing plates of fruit to Jokyōden." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you ever imagine ruling Japan? An entire country would offer a much wider scope for your talent than the small world of the court. Do you ever think you could govern better than the bakufu does?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'jokyōden' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Jokyōden turned an acid glare on him and said, \"Your mockery of this poor woman shows deplorable manners.\" Then, as she bent over an altar and set down the plates Sano had handed her, a glimmer of a smile lit her profile. \"But perhaps a shift of power is overdue. In less than a century, many problems have plagued Japan: famines, a bad earthquake, the flood that washed away the Sanjo Bridge and drowned hundreds of people, the Great Fire of Meireki that destroyed most of Edo, and two major fires here in Miyako. Such calamities are signs that the government is out of harmony with the cosmos. Only by transferring leadership to a worthier ruler can we avoid future disasters. Who better than a wise, capable member of the Imperial Court?\"\n\nSano had begun to think that nothing Jokyōden said could surprise him anymore, but her declaration stunned him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd not only implied that she blamed the Tokugawa for Japan's bad luck, but that she considered herself qualified to take over the government!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Was she responsible for the restoration conspiracy?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Had she quarreled with Konoe over a love affair gone bad, or because he'd discovered the plot and meant to report her to the metsuke?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Or was this another move in some bizarre game of which she alone knew the objectives?\n\nMore baffled than ever, Sano said, \"Have you already taken steps toward restoring harmony to the cosmos?\"\n\n\"Perhaps... perhaps not.\"\n\nEither she realized she was on dangerous ground, or she sought to confuse him further." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Losing patience, Sano ventured a countermove: \"It might interest you to know that a certain house in the cloth dyers' district was raided yesterday.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why should that concern me?\" Jokyōden asked.\n\nSano couldn't tell whether his news disturbed her, or if she knew what it meant, but the atmosphere in the chapel seethed with Jokyōden's unspoken thoughts. He said, \"Would you happen to know what's become of the weapons that were in that house two days ago?\"\n\nJokyōden set the last dish on an altar." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Standing, she faced Sano with an enigmatic smile. \"Weapons are not always necessary for the overthrow of a regime. The murders in the palace prove that there is a force stronger than any army. You samurai call it kiai and think that you invented it, but the power to take life by an act of will developed before the Way of the Warrior. When your ancestors were primitive tribal chieftains squabbling in the dirt, the Imperial Court had an advanced culture handed down to us by the gods. We command the magic of the universe, and within the palace walls, ancient traditions continue.\"\n\nA strange intensity lit Jokyōden's narrow eyes. As she glided out through the open doors, her layered silk robes fluttered in the wind." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Curious, Sano followed, not knowing what to expect." }, { "from": "human", "value": "An eerie disquiet infused the air." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Above the garden, clouds and smoke drifted across the sky. Tiny waves rippled the pond; irises swayed; distant thunder boomed in the hills. Jokyōden stood perfectly still on the veranda. She closed her eyes; her lips parted." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Moments passed. Sano waited, watching Jokyōden." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Suddenly the boughs of a nearby pine tree rustled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "From them dropped a small gray object, which landed on the gravel path with a soft thud." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was a squirrel with curled claws and a furry tail. For an instant the animal lay motionless. Jokyōden released her breath. The squirrel scrambled up and ran across the garden." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Never underestimate your adversary's power, sōsakan-sama,\" Lady Jokyōden said.\n\nSano stared at her. Arms folded, she gave him a triumphant smile. Thoughts jumbled in his mind." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Had the force of Jokyōden's will really felled the squirrel?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nature is full of small dramas; wait long enough, and something inevitably happens. Jokyōden's performance reminded Sano of magic tricks that depend on the belief of the audience. But the palace harbored an ancient evil. Suddenly Sano was afraid of Jokyōden." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "If she did have the power of kiai, she'd already murdered two men. She could kill him in an instant.\n\nBacking into the chapel, away from her, Sano said, \"Well, thank you for your time.\" His instincts warned against staying with Jokyōden a moment longer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He thought he saw a flicker of relief in her tranquil gaze. As with Right Minister Ichijo, he had the sense of hidden secrets. Once more he wondered whether Chamberlain Yanagisawa had been entirely frank with him.\n\n\"Honorable Lady Jokyōden, you've given me a lot of evidence against yourself,\" Sano said, pausing at the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I could charge you with murder—and treason—on the strength of it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She just smiled. \"But you won't, will you?\"\n\nNow Sano understood that she'd accurately read his character, while hers remained a mystery to him. She knew she could play her bizarre, dangerous game with him because he wouldn't make another arrest without solid proof. He'd lost control over the interview at the start." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Exasperated, Sano burst out, \"Why are you doing this? To make me think that your candor means you must be innocent? Do you want me to believe that you're guilty and you deliberately helped my wife find evidence against you? Or are you encouraging my suspicion to protect someone else?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Jokyōden laughed; her humor further mystified Sano. \"You are the detective. It is up to you to answer those questions.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for eight sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Alone in the chapel after the sōsakan-sama left her, Lady Jokyōden resumed her preparations for Obon. As she opened a box of incense, her hands began to shake, and she had to set down the box so it wouldn't spill. The tremors spread through her whole body. Her vision darkened around the edges; the room spun in dizzying rhythm. She knelt, buried her face in her trembling hands, and succumbed to the delayed reaction to Sano's visit.\n\nJokyōden had known Sano would come to question her regarding the second murder, and she'd employed against him a strategy designed to risk some dangers and avert more serious ones. She'd thought she knew how far she could lead him and still avoid harm, but some of his questions had caught her badly unprepared. Now aware of perils whose existence she'd never suspected, she feared she would regret what she'd told Sano." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Forcing herself to breathe deeply, Jokyōden willed anxiety away. At last the tremors and faintness subsided, but she desperately needed advice on how to prevent the destruction of her son, herself, and the entire court. Jokyōden rose and walked to the main altar, took one of the candles that burned before the Buddha statue, then knelt at an alcove in the corner and placed the candle in a stand on the table there. She opened the door of the butsudan. The little cabinet, made of teak that had darkened with age, contained a wooden tablet bearing characters that read, \"Wu Tse-tien.\"\n\nWu Tse-tien, who had lived in China almost a millennium before, wasn't an ancestor of the imperial family. However, the women of Jokyōden's clan worshipped her as a patron deity. At age fourteen she'd become a concubine to Emperor T'ai-tsung of the Tang dynasty." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he died, Wu Tse-tien had won the affection of T'ai-tsung's son and heir, Emperor Kaotsung." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was a weak, lazy fool, she intelligent and ambitious. Empress Wu Tse-tien became the only woman ever to rule China, in defiance of the Confucian code that prohibited female leaders.\n\nHer example offered great inspiration to women who shared Wu Tse-tien's nature.\n\nStaring at the wavering candle flame, Jokyōden concentrated on the hazy brightness that spread across her vision. Soon an image began to form there. First appeared the silhouette of a human head and shoulders; then swirling colors coalesced. It was Empress Wu Tse-tien. Her black hair, piled in a high, elaborate coif, sparkled with jeweled combs." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Embroidered gold dragons snarled on her red silk robe." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Scarlet rouge and lip paint enhanced the beauty that had seduced two emperors." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Wu Tse-tien regarded Jokyōden through sharp, shrewd eyes. Her mouth moved; her voice resounded in Jokyōden's mind:\n\nGreetings, my sister. The spirit of Wu Tse-tien spoke in Chinese, but Jokyōden understood every word. Why have you summoned me?\n\n\"I need your help,\" Jokyōden said.\n\nWu Tse-tien's image had appeared as a girl during Jokyōden's childhood and gotten older through years of visitations. Now the Chinese empress looked to be Jokyōden's own age of thirty-nine. Wu Tse-tien was her closest friend and confidante, as if they'd grown up together, although Wu Tse-tien possessed the wisdom of a lifetime." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Jokyōden described her meeting with Sano, Wu Tse-tien frowned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was foolish to provoke him that way." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A woman in our position should polish her image until it shines like the sun, not tarnish it by throwing mud upon herself. Instead of compromising your own reputation, you must build it up.\n\nThis was exactly what Wu Tse-tien had done. She'd hired Buddhist priests to forge \"ancient\" documents that prophesied the coming of a great female ruler, the reincarnation of a bodhisattva. Then they'd declared Wu Tse-tien to be this ruler, legitimizing her controversial reign. But Jokyōden had troubles propaganda couldn't resolve.\n\n\"I had to do it,\" she said, then explained why she'd practically confessed her guilt to Sano.\n\nWu Tse-tien nodded. A daring but sensible strategy, she conceded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Your son is key to your success, as my sons were to mine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After Emperor Kaotsung's death, Wu Tse-tien had placed two of her sons, one after the other, on the throne as her puppets and founded her own Chou dynasty. Emperor Tomohito is a logical focus for the detective's suspicion. To shield him is to shield yourself.\n\n\"But I dread what could happen if the sōsakan-sama investigates me,\" Jokyōden said. \"There are things I cannot have him discover.\"\n\nYes... Wu Tse-tien's expression was fond, though stern. However, you knew the risks when you started on your forbidden path. Now you must prepare to face the consequences, whatever they may be." }, { "from": "human", "value": "To labor and fight, then ultimately triumph, is your destiny." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The pursuit of destiny had dominated Jokyōden's life as it had Wu Tse-tien's." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She'd been born into the Takatsukasa branch of the Fujiwara clan, from which came many imperial consorts. Other kuge families considered their daughters mere pawns for improving their status at court and breeding future emperors, but the Takatsukasa had followed a different tradition. For generations they'd schooled their daughters in reading, mathematics, writing, music, Confucian philosophy, military strategy, astrology, ancient mysticism, and the art of politics—everything an emperor needed to know. Once they'd wanted more than just control over an emperor who shared their blood. They'd sought to oust the current imperial family and found their own court, and they planned to achieve this through a woman who could follow Wu Tse-tien's example.\n\nFate had thwarted Takatsukasa ambitions, however. Many of the daughters weren't smart or strong enough. Better prospects often lacked the beauty to attract emperors." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When the warrior clans had taken over the country five hundred years ago, the Imperial Court lost power, and the Takatsukasa lost hope of founding a dynasty that would rule Japan. Long before Tokugawa domination further diminished the possibility of the court's return to power, the Takatsukasa leaders abandoned as a waste of time the program of training future empresses.\n\nStill, women are often keepers of faith. Jokyōden's female kin continued to pass on to their daughters the lessons on gaining power. When Jokyōden came along, they rejoiced: Here was the right combination of intelligence, will, and beauty for Japan's first reigning empress. Jokyōden remembered long days of studying, harsh discipline. The lessons infused challenge and excitement into a world that lacked both. From an early age she believed in the destiny predicted for her, and at first her life seemed a direct path toward it, with Wu Tse-tien her guide." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eliminate the competition for the emperor's favor, Wu Tse-tien had told her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As a new concubine, Jokyōden had identified her chief rival among the other court ladies: her cousin Myobu." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A lovely, strong-willed girl, Myobu had been trained in the same manner as Jokyōden and instilled with the same ambitions. They were the emperor's two favorites.\n\nThe court is like a beehive with two queens, said Wu Tse-tien. The most ruthless fighter will be the victor.\n\nWu Tse-tien had eliminated all her own rivals, including Emperor Kaotsung's mother, whom she'd ordered drowned in a wine vat. To clear the way for her new dynasty, she'd executed several hundred aristocrats and members of the old Tang imperial family. She'd even murdered her own infant daughter, whom she feared might supplant her as empress and fall under the influence of her opponents before Wu Tse-tien could bear a son and secure her position. Now came Jokyōden's turn to show how well she'd learned by example." }, { "from": "human", "value": "One day the palace ladies made a pilgrimage to a mountain temple." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'jokyōden' exactly 5 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Before they left home, Jokyōden sent a note to Myobu, saying she had something private to discuss and asking Myobu to meet her in a secluded pavilion on a cliff above the temple. When Myobu came, Jokyōden was waiting for her. One push, and Myobu fell to her death. Later Jokyōden claimed that Myobu had tried to push her over the cliff, and she'd acted in self-defense. With no witnesses, everyone believed Jokyōden. She became the emperor's official consort.\n\nUse his laziness to your advantage, Wu Tse-tien advised.\n\nLady Jokyōden gradually took over the emperor's duties." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Soon she gave birth to Crown Prince Tomohito." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Before you take the next step, make sure he will live, said Wu Tse-tien. The mother of a dead emperor is nothing.\n\nJokyōden waited twelve years. Prince Tomohito flourished. She convinced the emperor to abdicate and turn the throne over to their son. The sacred mirror, jewel, and sword of imperial sovereignty passed to Tomohito. Jokyōden advanced to the highest rank for a court lady. With Tomohito still a child, she could mold him into a tool to serve her ambitions. However, a serious obstacle blocked her progress." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Through the years, she'd grown aware of the court's diminished circumstances, its nonexistent influence over the world outside." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tokugawa troops guarded the palace. The bakufu doled out meager sums of money that kept the court alive but dependent. The imperial family had millions of devoted subjects, but no army. Jokyōden had eventually awakened to the fact that she had reached the pinnacle of her world, but there seemed no way to expand her domain. Would all her education, all her scheming, result in nothing more than command over the petty affairs of a few individuals?\n\nDisappointment is the mother of creativity, Wu Tse-tien had counseled. Reassess your objectives. Circumvent the problem.\n\nAt last Jokyōden found a new direction for her life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was daring, unwomanly, and violated both tradition and law." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She loved it. But unfortunately, her new venture coincided with another circumstance: Left Minister Konoe's appearance as her suitor.\n\nNever allow yourself to fall under the power of a man! Wu Tse-tien warned. Men are a woman's downfall!\n\nBut the left minister had awakened needs that Jokyōden had suppressed in pursuit of her dreams. He made her realize how much she craved affection; his lovemaking taught her that sex had other benefits besides procreation. She'd fallen in love with him. Carried away by romance, she had confided in him, and he had betrayed her.\n\n\"You were right,\" Jokyōden said now to Wu Tse-tien." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I never should have trusted the left minister.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Never waste time on regretting the past, Wu Tse-tien said sternly. Her eyes, the ornaments in her hair, and the dragons on her robe glittered in the flame that surrounded her. Concentrate on the present and the future. Hasn't the death of the left minister solved your problem?\n\nOnce Jokyōden had believed that Konoe's murder had saved her from exposure, scandal, and punishment while protecting her great venture. Then Sano had revived the danger. \"I thought Konoe had died before he could use the power he held over me, but he was involved in things I never guessed. The sōsakan-sama survived the attack, and his investigation continues. I didn't anticipate the direction it would take, or the stakes involved.\" She added regretfully, \"I was a fool to help Lady Reiko, but I could not have guessed what would come of taking her to the left minister's secret house.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "That was a grave mistake, said Wu Tse-tien." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage requirement: 'patience' must appear 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now there is only one way to protect yourself and your son. You must cease your activities so that the shogun's detective will not discover them. Until he is gone from Miyako, you must have patience.\n\nWu Tse-tien had shown Jokyōden the value of patience. The Chinese empress had waited forty-one years to found her new dynasty, until Emperor Kaotsung and her strongest opponents were dead. She'd accumulated power over a lifetime, gradually replacing the old bureaucracy with men loyal to her. Yet Jokyōden couldn't accept Wu Tse-tien's advice.\n\n\"I can't stop now,\" she said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"This is a critical time. I've invested all my effort and capital and hope in this venture. Unless I move forward, I risk utter failure.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Bitterness hardened Wu Tse-tien's expression, because she had suffered defeat in the end. At eighty-three, she'd been forced to abdicate by one of her sons, who dissolved her regime and reestablished the old Tang dynasty. This was the one example from her mentor's life that Jokyōden must not emulate.\n\n\"I shall continue as I began,\" decided Jokyōden. Then she asked humbly, \"May I have your blessing?\"\n\nMy blessing, yes: my approval, no, Wu Tse-tien said peevishly. Even from the grave she liked to be in control.\n\n\"May I ask what the future holds for me?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Chinese empress spread her hands in a mocking gesture of resignation. Yours is a perilous path, which you have chosen to walk without my guidance. The future is uncertain; good and evil are equally possible. I wish you luck, because you are on your own now. Good-bye until we meet again in the afterlife.\n\n\"Wait,\" Jokyōden cried. But Wu Tse-tien's image vanished; the candle had burned out. Jokyōden sadly closed the butsudan. The world had changed since Wu Tse-tien's day." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Jokyōden must go where Wu Tse-tien couldn't guide her." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was her destiny.\n\nShe prayed that her destiny would not lead to execution for murder and treason." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "CONTINUE STORY SEGMENT. PARAMETERS: 12 sentences sentences, Laura Joh Rowland style, Sano Ichiro 5 genre. NOTE: PART OF LARGER NARRATIVE." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The news came just as Chamberlain Yanagisawa was preparing to attend Yoriki Hoshina's execution.\n\nHearing a knock at the door of his private quarters at Nijō Castle, Yanagisawa called, \"Come in.\"\n\nThe guard captain entered, bowing. \"Excuse me, Honorable Chamberlain, but there's a problem that I must bring to your attention. Yoriki Hoshina is gone.\"\n\nA wave of shock hit Yanagisawa; his heart began to hammer. \"What do you mean, gone? Hoshina was locked up at police headquarters. He's supposed to die this morning.\"\n\n\"The sōsakan-sama had Hoshina moved last night,\" the guard captain said. \"Two doshin took him to a secret hiding place. They were ordered to guard him, but they're both subordinates and friends of his, and he persuaded them to let him go.\"\n\n\"Why hasn't he been caught?\"\n\n\"There are troops out looking for him now, but he made the doshin promise to wait until sunrise before reporting his escape. So he's got a head start on us.\"\n\nYanagisawa turned away, trying to sort out his emotions. Hoshina's flight enraged him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With his knowledge of Yanagisawa's sabotage against an investigation ordered by the shogun, Hoshina alive and free was a lethal danger. Yet even in the throes of anger and fear, Yanagisawa felt relief. If Hoshina got away, he need not die. Perhaps they would meet again someday. But Yanagisawa wanted Hoshina back now, even if only to see him one last time on the execution ground.\n\nTurning on the guard captain, Yanagisawa said, \"I want those doshin executed for dereliction of duty!\"\n\n\"They're already dead,\" said the captain. \"They just walked into the shoshidai's office, confessed that they'd set Hoshina free, then committed seppuku.\"\n\n\"I want troops combing the city, nonstop, until Hoshina is found,\" Yanagisawa said.\n\n\"Yes, Honorable Chamberlain.\"\n\nAfter the captain left, Yanagisawa leaned against the wall, shaken. Then he forced himself to forget Hoshina." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He still had to solve the murder case and triumph over Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They'd arranged to meet here at the hour of the rooster to share their findings, and until then, he would let the shoshidai's troops continue the search for the outlaws while he followed the leads he'd kept to himself when he and Sano had agreed to work together." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa hastily shed his black ceremonial robes and donned the faded indigo cotton kimono, blue trousers, and straw sandals he wore for martial arts practice. The clothes were right, but he looked too clean. Going outside to the garden, he rubbed dirt on his garments. And he needed something to conceal his face. Then he noticed a gardener staring at him in puzzlement. The gardener wore a frayed wicker hat, bleached by the sun.\n\n\"Give me your hat,\" Yanagisawa ordered.\n\nThe gardener obeyed. Yanagisawa put on the hat, went back into his room, fastened his swords at his waist, and stood in front of the mirror. He gave his reflection a sardonic smile. With his battered face and raffish costume, he looked like a disreputable rōnin.\n\n\"Perfect,\" he murmured.\n\nHe slipped out the back gate of Nijō Castle." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His pulse quickened with the same thrill he'd experienced during the raid on Lord Ibe's house yesterday, which had whetted his appetite for detective work." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'clear' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Once out in the street, however, Yanagisawa began to doubt the wisdom of his venture. He felt small and defenseless without his entourage. Passing samurai gave him disdainful glances. Commoners made way for him, but no one offered the lavish displays of respect usually accorded him.\n\n\"Clear the road! Clear the road!\"\n\nThe tramp of hooves and marching feet accompanied the shouted orders. Pedestrians scurried to the roadside. Yanagisawa looked down Marutamachi Avenue and saw a procession coming toward him. Soldiers and mounted officials escorted Shoshidai Matsudaira, who rode a black steed.\n\n\"Get out of the way! What's the matter, are you deaf?\"\n\nA soldier pushed Yanagisawa aside. As the procession passed, angry consternation filled him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That the troops of a subordinate should treat him so rudely!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And the shoshidai hadn't even noticed him. His disguise negated his rank and power. Chastened, he hurried on his way, hoping he wouldn't encounter anyone else he knew.\n\nWhen he reached the Imperial Palace, he walked east on Imadegawa Avenue to a rear gate used by tradesmen. At a guardhouse, a sentry received deliveries. This, according to Hoshina, was where Lady Jokyōden's mysterious visitor brought messages every day at this time. Not that Yanagisawa trusted Hoshina's word. Not that he believed he would actually see the elusive young man known only as Hiro, who probably had nothing to do with the murders or conspiracy even if he existed. But the visitor represented one of two clues that Yanagisawa had and Sano didn't.\n\nYanagisawa strolled, mingling with other pedestrians while covertly watching the gate. Porters delivered loads of charcoal and produce. Across the street from the palace, Yanagisawa went to a tiny restaurant that offered a good view." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He sat on the raised wooden floor, as far from the other customers as possible; they were all filthy laborers who might have fleas." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A toothless old woman hobbled over to wait on him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"A bowl of noodles and some tea,\" Yanagisawa said without taking his gaze off the palace gate.\n\nMore porters brought more goods to the imperial compound. Soon Yanagisawa's meal came. The tea tasted like weeds in stagnant water; the noodles were mushy. How could anyone eat such slop? Yanagisawa pretended to sip his tea while time dragged, other diners came and went, and more provisions arrived at the palace. The steam and food odors from the restaurant kitchen made him hot and queasy. Then, just when he was ready to give up hope, a lone figure approached the gate.\n\nIt was a dapper young man dressed in a brown-and-black checked kimono, his hair in a topknot. As Hoshina had said, he looked to be a member of the lower merchant class. He carried a cylindrical red scroll case. Yanagisawa leaned forward for a better look." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The man stopped at the guardhouse and spoke to the sentry." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa, who had excellent vision and had mastered the art of lipreading, easily discerned the man's words: I have a message for the Honorable Lady Jokōyden.\n\nThe gate opened, and a noblewoman of elegant, dignified appearance came out. She took the scroll case, bowed, and went back inside the palace. The gate closed.\n\nYanagisawa could hardly contain his elation. Hoshina hadn't lied to him about this, at least. He concentrated on the messenger, who leaned against the palace wall, awaiting Jokyōden's reply. Who was he? A secret lover? Maybe Jokyōden had killed Left Minister Konoe because he'd discovered the affair and intended to tell her husband. The man had an intelligent expression, but his face was homely, with protruding teeth. Yanagisawa hoped that the mysterious visits had nothing to do with love and everything to do with the conspiracy to overthrow the Tokugawa regime.\n\nAfter a short while, the gate opened again. The woman handed the scroll case back to the messenger, who bowed his thanks." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa resisted the impulse to rush across the street, arrest the man, and confiscate the message. If it turned out to have nothing to do with the murder case, he would look a worse fool than he did already.\n\nThe messenger trotted down the street. Yanagisawa rose to follow, but the toothless crone who'd served his meal hurried over to him. \"You owe five zeni!\" she screeched, blocking his way.\n\nYanagisawa stared blankly at her. He never carried money; his staff always paid his expenses. Now the crone's shrieks were attracting an audience. He saw the back of Lady Jokyōden's messenger rapidly moving away. Yanagisawa drew his sword and waved it at the woman. \"I'm not paying for that garbage. Get out of my way!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The woman obeyed, but shouted curses at him as he ran down Imadegawa Avenue. His quarry ducked into a side street. Dodging a peddler laden with baskets, Yanagisawa followed. The messenger entered a maze of alleys where hanging laundry bridged the narrow gap between balconies. His route zigzagged, avoiding main streets. He constantly looked sideways and backward. Was he carrying orders from Jokyōden to the outlaws? Would he lead the way to their hiding place?\n\nAs he threaded between food stalls around a shrine, chasing the messenger, Yanagisawa's blood raced with an intoxicating energy. Anonymous, unhampered by a huge entourage or formal garb, he felt as swift and invisible as the wind. Anyone else would have lost the messenger by now, but Yanagisawa had no trouble keeping up. With the same intuition that helped him predict other men's moves in the game of politics, he anticipated the abrupt turns that had foiled the palace guards who had tried to follow the messenger." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He'd always had a good sense of direction; he could picture the route superimposed on a map of Miyako." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They were in the main commercial district." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Wherever he ended up, he could guide troops there to arrest the rebels." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In this secret pursuit, he unexpectedly achieved the heightened awareness sought by devotees of Bushido. The samurai spirit in him expanded, and the search for clues seemed more gratifying than sabotaging a rival.\n\nThe messenger ducked into a passage barely wide enough for three men to walk abreast. Vertical signs protruded from shops. Many bore crests featuring the scales used for weighing gold: This was a district of bankers. Merchants strolled, accompanied by samurai bodyguards and clerks carrying ledgers and cash boxes. Suddenly the messenger vanished into a shop. Puzzled, Yanagisawa halted. This didn't look like a place where outlaws would gather, or hide illegal weapons. Jokyōden's messenger must have spotted him and run through the shop to evade him.\n\nYanagisawa hurried forward. The shop's sign read \"Daikoku Bank\"—named after the god of fortune. Yanagisawa peered into the narrow storefront. He heard the jingle of coins, rapid clicks, and loud conversation as clerks counted money, totaled sums on the beads of their soroban, and negotiated with customers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The clerks wore the same brown-and-black uniform that Yanagisawa had followed from the Imperial Palace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With relief he spied his quarry showing the scroll case to the elderly proprietor, who sat on a platform, weighing gold ingots on a balance. Proprietor and messenger walked through a doorway leading to the back room, with the scroll. Yanagisawa sped around the block and down the alley behind the shop. He had to find out what the scroll said and what the bank had to do with Lady Jokyōden.\n\nThe alley was lined with malodorous privies; stray dogs rooted in fetid garbage containers. Wrinkling his nose in distaste, Yanagisawa edged up to the back window of the bank. Inside he saw a dim office furnished with shelves and iron chests. The messenger and proprietor were seated on the floor.\n\nOpening the scroll case, the messenger removed a document, spread it on a table, and scanned columns of fine calligraphy. \"She's pleased with our service.\"\n\n\"She should be,\" the proprietor said. \"By paying better exchange rates than other shops, we've attracted more customers. Our investments in local businesses have paid an excellent return. We've been hired to handle the Miyako finances of the great Matsui merchant clan, for a large commission. We store the rice stipends of Lord Kii's retainers in our warehouse, and we'll collect large fees for converting the rice to cash. Profits are up ten percent over last year. By next year, we'll be ready to open a branch in Osaka.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa wasn't interested in the bank's performance or the moneygrubbing ambitions of its owner." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The smell in the alley nauseated him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He strained to read the scroll, but the writing was small and the distance too great.\n\n\"What are her orders?\" the proprietor asked.\n\nNow we're getting somewhere, Yanagisawa thought. Perhaps the bank served as an intermediary between Jokyōden and the rebels. He waited to hear her plans for a siege of Miyako.\n\nThe messenger read aloud from the scroll, \"'Buy two hundred loads of lumber. Buy a thousand loads of coal, two thousand of soybeans, and three thousand vats of oil.'\"\n\nJokyōden must be laying in supplies to build a fort and provision an army.\n\n\"'Buy ten loads each of copper and silver.'\"\n\nShe would also need to pay her troops, Yanagisawa guessed. Exhilaration filled him. Even if he hadn't located the outlaws or weapons, he was collecting evidence that tied Jokyōden to the conspiracy.\n\n\"A wise decision to buy now,\" said the proprietor. \"I predict that the prices of those commodities will rise soon.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Maybe Jokyōden was also speculating on prices as a means of raising funds for the revolt." }, { "from": "system", "value": "/set_word_count: jokyōden, frequency: 3" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa savored the fact that he, not Sano, had made this discovery. And if Jokyōden was guilty, then Hoshina was not...\n\n\"'Transfer five hundred koban to her personal account,'\" read the messenger.\n\nWas this a loan to finance the revolt? If Jokyōden would incur such a large debt in addition to her lavish spending, she must be seriously committed to restoring the Imperial Court to supremacy. Her nerve impressed Yanagisawa. Had she killed Left Minister Konoe because he'd discovered her illicit deals?\n\nStill, her gender prevented Yanagisawa from believing in Jokyōden's guilt. Although he knew she managed court affairs with the authority of a male official and he'd found this new evidence of her bold, unfeminine ambition, he couldn't picture Jokyōden stalking him through the palace compound. He couldn't imagine any woman possessing the power of kiai.\n\nSuddenly two huge samurai came running down the alley toward him from opposite directions. They seized Yanagisawa, ripped off his swords, and flung him facedown on the filthy ground." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Hey can you write like Laura Joh Rowland in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre and use whatever I write as a jumping off point? This is from a longer work so some stuff might reference earlier chapters." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After leaving Lady Jokyōden, Sano went to the imperial consorts' residence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Lady Asagao was no longer a suspect, but he needed to resolve some unfinished business concerning her.\n\nHe found Asagao reclining on cushions on the shady veranda of the residence. Ladies-in-waiting plied large fans to create a cooling breeze around her. Clad in layered pastel robes, Asagao wore her hair in a limp plait. A physician dressed in a long dark blue coat fed her potions from ceramic bowls. When Sano climbed the veranda steps, she turned toward him. Apprehension pinched her round face, which looked sallow and plain in the absence of her usual makeup. Her attendants eyed Sano with distrust. The physician glowered.\n\n\"Lady Asagao must not be disturbed,\" he said." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'ordeal' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The ordeal of imprisonment has weakened her health. To recover, she needs rest and quiet.\"\n\nSano knelt by Asagao, bowed, and said, \"Your Highness, I apologize for your ordeal. It was an abominable mistake, and I beg your forgiveness.\" That Chamberlain Yanagisawa had manipulated them both into the false arrest hardly diminished the guilt he felt toward Asagao. \"However, I must request your assistance. Will you be so kind as to answer a few questions?\"\n\nThe emperor's consort pouted. \"Why should I?\" she said sullenly.\n\nWhy indeed, thought Sano. She didn't need to defend herself against further accusations, and she had no reason to voluntarily help someone who'd torn her away from her home and imprisoned her. The law permitted intimidation and torture to extort information from witnesses, but Sano didn't want to inflict more suffering on Lady Asagao or further antagonize the Imperial Court, so he must give her a different incentive to cooperate." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I've discovered a plot to overthrow the Tokugawa regime,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The plot is almost certainly connected with the murders. It's imperative that I catch the killer before he or she can kill again or bring war upon Japan. His Majesty the Emperor and your father are still under investigation.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano paused to let Asagao absorb his words, then said, \"More mistakes could occur. Another innocent person might be subjected to the same treatment as yourself. Wouldn't you like to prevent that?\"\n\nAsagao squirmed on the cushions; her eyes darted like minnows trying to escape a fishing net. She might not possess great intelligence, but Sano perceived in her a natural cunning. She'd understood his implied threat to punish her kin unless she cooperated. Now she cast a pleading glance at her companions and made a weak attempt to sit up.\n\n\"I don't feel well,\" she whined. \"Take me inside.\"\n\nThe physician and ladies-in-waiting moved to help her, but Sano steeled himself against letting Asagao use her illness to escape him. \"Leave us,\" he told her attendants.\n\nThey reluctantly obeyed. Asagao cowered on the cushions, fearful yet defiant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano said, \"Let's talk about the night Left Minister Konoe died. You told my wife that you were with your ladies-in-waiting. Later they admitted that you'd sneaked out to meet someone. Which is the truth?\" Although he didn't really believe that determining Asagao's whereabouts would solve the case, unanswered questions bothered Sano. \"Where were you?\"\n\nAsagao said, \"I was in the tea ceremony cottage. With my father.\"\n\nSano recognized the story that Right Minister Ichijo had told Chamberlain Yanagisawa. He also knew that Yoriki Hoshina had established that the cottage had been occupied by a pair of lovers, and therefore not by Ichijo and Asagao. Obviously, Ichijo had instructed his daughter to corroborate his lie. She'd provided her father with the alibi she no longer needed. The probable reason behind her deception gave Sano an idea how to turn Asagao's motives to his advantage.\n\n\"Were you ever present when your father counseled the emperor?\" Sano asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Sometimes.\" A puzzled frown wrinkled the consort's brow.\n\n\"What did they talk about?\"\n\n\"I don't remember. Court business, I suppose. I didn't pay much attention.\" Asagao spoke with eager nervousness, as if hoping that ignorance would safeguard her until she could figure out where the conversation was heading.\n\n\"Did His Majesty talk about past emperors who had tried to overthrow military regimes?\" Sano said. \"Did he ever express the desire to do the same?\"\n\nShocked comprehension dawned in Asagao's eyes. She sat up and blurted, \"No. Never.\"\n\n\"His Majesty wants to rule Japan, doesn't he?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano said. \"He not only fights make-believe battles; he's planning a real one. Did he tell you that he's been bringing weapons into Miyako and recruiting soldiers for a war against the Tokugawa?\"\n\n\"He wouldn't do that!\" Asagao cried.\n\n\"Wouldn't he?\" Sano said, wondering if Asagao was really surprised, or if she'd already known about the conspiracy. \"His Majesty is bored by his sheltered life. He's puffed up with conceit and dreams of glory. But plotting a coup is treason. For such a serious crime, not even an emperor can escape death.\"\n\n\"I don't know what you're talking about.\" Panic shone in Asagao's eyes. \"Tomo-chan would never try to overthrow the bakufu!\"\n\nWhether she was lying didn't matter; it wasn't Sano's intention to gain evidence against Tomohito right now. The emperor was just bait for a trap." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yesterday the soldiers and weapons were in a house belonging to Lord Ibe of Echizen Province. Did His Majesty ever mention it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No!\"\n\n\"Did Left Minister Konoe discover His Majesty's plans?\" Sano said. \"Did His Majesty know that Konoe was a spy, and fear that Konoe would report his crime?\" Now came the time to spring the trap. \"Where was His Majesty on the night of Konoe's murder?\"\n\n\"Tomo-chan wasn't in the garden. He didn't kill the left minister!\" Asagao's desperate gaze sought help, but the courtyard was empty and still in the hot sunshine, and the building behind her as silent as if everyone had deserted it. In the trees, insects shrilled; a bird shrieked.\n\n\"How could you know where His Majesty was, when you were in the tea cottage with your father?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano rose and stood over Asagao. \"That same story can't provide alibis for both men. It looks as though I'll be charging one or the other with treason and murder. You can help me decide which.\"\n\n\"No!\" Asagao tried to rise, but her legs tangled in her robes, and she fell against the cushions, helpless.\n\n\"Of course you want to save your father,\" Sano said, hating what he must do to the consort. \"He gave you life; he fed and sheltered you during your childhood. You wouldn't like to see him hurt, and it's your duty to protect him. But what about your duty to the emperor? His alibis for both murders are weak. He needs you to point my suspicion away from him... toward somebody else.\"\n\n\"Please leave me alone,\" Asagao implored. Sweat beaded her face; her pale lips trembled. \"Don't make me do this!\"\n\nSuppressing his pity for her, Sano said, \"If His Majesty is found to have committed treason, a new emperor will take the throne and select a new chief consort. You'll lose your status and special privileges. You could become a lady-in-waiting to your replacement, or marry a noble who's willing to accept a cast-off consort as a wife. Or you could enter a nunnery.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "These options represented utter humiliation to a woman of Asagao's rank." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If that's what you want, then by all means cast your lot with your father. If not, then perhaps you should reconsider the wisdom of protecting him at the emperor's expense.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano let the echo of his harsh words die." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He waited for Asagao to choose which of the two most important men in her life she would betray. Loath to incur the consequences of implicating Japan's sacred sovereign in the crimes, Sano didn't want it to be Emperor Tomohito.\n\nAsagao whimpered, hugging herself.\n\n\"Where were you when Left Minister Konoe died?\" Sano asked.\n\nFor a long while he thought Asagao's loyalty to her father would prevail. Then defeat drained the tension from her body; she began to weep. \"I was in the tea cottage,\" she said, \"but my father wasn't. I was with my friend Lord Gojo. We didn't want anyone to know about us, so when the policeman came around asking everybody where they'd been that night, Gojo said he was with a friend he bribed to lie for him.\"\n\nA connection clicked in Sano's mind. Lord Gojo was the man whom Reiko had watched flirting with Asagao in the Kabuki play." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd been having an affair with him, not Left Minister Konoe." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Asagao and Lord Gojo had been the two lovers in the tea cottage." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She'd had an alibi she hadn't wanted to use because it would have exposed her infidelity to Emperor Tomohito." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I only said my father was with me because he asked me to.\" Tears streamed down Asagao's face; she wiped them on her sleeve. \"I never saw him that night.\"\n\nShe'd rejected the ties of blood for those of sex and power, sacrificing her father to protect Tomohito. Yet Sano felt no pleasure at breaking Right Minister Ichijo's alibi. He hated himself for manipulating Asagao. The pursuit of justice too often required the basest means.\n\n\"Thank you, Lady Asagao,\" Sano said, adding, \"I'm sorry.\"\n\nHer bitter glare burned him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shamed and depressed, he went to the door and called Asagao's attendants. As they led her into the building, she turned to Sano. Between ragged sobs, she said, \"My father wasn't in the Pond Garden when the left minister died, but I know who was.\"\n\nA desperate guile shone in her reddened eyes. Sano had half-expected her to shield Ichijo by accusing someone else. Now, as she gasped for breath, he waited to see whom she would incriminate.\n\n\"It was the left minister's former wife.\"\n\n\"What?\" Shock resonated through Sano. Kozeri, in the palace on the night of Konoe's death?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "But Kozeri had an alibi—or did she?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She hadn't been at the scene of Aisu's murder—or had she? Now Sano realized that this was the vital information he'd forgotten to obtain from Kozeri. Had his attraction to her rendered him so negligent? Sano unhappily acknowledged the possibility, but a kernel of doubt formed in his mind. It burgeoned into suspicion, then anger as he realized what Kozeri had done.\n\nAsagao laughed, an ugly chortle. \"Kozeri fooled you, didn't she? Before the left minister died, I overheard him giving orders to his assistants. Ask Kozeri why he wanted the Pond Garden to himself that night. Ask her why she was there.\"\n\nSano grabbed Asagao's shoulders. \"You tell me!\" he commanded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She looked disdainfully up at him." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Ask Kozeri how her first husband died. Ask her if she killed the left minister. Then ask her where she was when that other man died.\" As the attendants bore Lady Asagao away, her mocking laughter drifted back to Sano." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Expand the story by adding 7 sentences. Context: May include pre-existing characters and lore." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'palace' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano wanted to rush off and confront Kozeri with Lady Asagao's allegations, but first he went to the imperial guardhouse to check the records of comings and goings at the palace on the dates of the two murders. Afterward he visited Kozeri's family, a noble clan who lived in the kuge district of the palace. He learned enough to convince him that he'd made a grave mistake that he must redress after the meeting he and Chamberlain Yanagisawa had scheduled to share the results of their inquiries.\n\nBy the time he arrived at Nijō Castle, the sun had turned orange over the western hills; gongs signaled the onset of Obon rites. The smoke from altars diffused the light, so that the air seemed filled with scintillating topaz dust. The gate sentry told Sano, \"The honorable chamberlain went out early this morning and hasn't yet returned.\"\n\nAcross the street, Sano saw Marume and Fukida loitering outside a teahouse." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd assigned them and some other men to spy on Yanagisawa. Now he hurried over to the detectives. \"Yanagisawa's gone,\" he said.\n\nThe pair looked surprised. \"We never saw him come out,\" Marume said.\n\nSano and the detectives checked with the men assigned to watch the other gates, but none of them had seen Yanagisawa.\n\n\"He slipped right past everyone,\" Sano said in dismay." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa's disappearance was more trouble on top of the problem of Kozeri." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano didn't want to believe Kozeri had deceived him, although he knew she had." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nor did he want to think about what might happen when he saw Kozeri again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Would he bring a killer to justice, or make matters worse?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "What in heaven was Yanagisawa up to now?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "In the barracks of Nijō Castle, the guard captain told Sano that the chamberlain had been detained." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Where?\" Sano asked. \"By whom?\"\n\nThe captain looked nervous, as if wondering how much to tell Sano. \"Uh, I just received news that the honorable chamberlain is at police headquarters. I sent some men to fetch him. He was arrested.\"\n\nBaffled, Sano said, \"Why?\"\n\n\"I don't know.\"\n\nSano and his detectives rode to police headquarters. Around the main room, Yanagisawa's troops stood guard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A score of yoriki and doshin lay prostrated, hands extended. Shoshidai Matsudaira knelt before the clerk's platform, gazing fearfully up at the man standing there. With a shock, Sano recognized Yanagisawa. His clothes were dirty and disheveled. His bruised face wore a fierce scowl.\n\n\"This is a gross insult!\" he yelled at the shoshidai." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If one of your yoriki hadn't recognized me, I would be in jail now.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "With scathing fury he chastised the assembly for treating him like a criminal." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"A thousand apologies,\" the shoshidai whimpered. \"Please forgive my staff's terrible mistake. They will be punished severely. I assure you this will never happen again.\"\n\n\"See that it doesn't,\" Yanagisawa said, \"or you'll lose your post.\" He added, \"And you'd better find Yoriki Hoshina by morning. Dismissed!\"\n\nThe police fled. \"He's in disguise,\" Fukida marveled. \"That's how he got past us. Who would have guessed he'd do that?\"\n\nSano approached Yanagisawa and Shoshidai Matsudaira." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why were you arrested?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "he asked the chamberlain." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At the sight of Sano, anger darkened Yanagisawa's expression; he didn't answer. The Shoshidai said timidly, \"For attempting to rob a bank in the merchant district.\"\n\n\"I told you, I wasn't,\" Yanagisawa said with icy emphasis. \"I was walking along, minding my own business, when three thugs attacked me. The police took the word of the merchant who accused me of trying to steal his filthy money.\"\n\n\"Yes, of course,\" the shoshidai said apologetically.\n\n\"What were you doing in that part of town?\" Sano said. \"Why are you dressed like that?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"My mishap has nothing to do with the case,\" Yanagisawa said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I owe you no explanations.\"\n\nSano followed Yanagisawa out of the building. \"What was that about finding Yoriki Hoshina?\"\n\nA sardonic smile came over Yanagisawa's face as they reached the street and his retainers helped him onto his horse. \"Your hostage has escaped.\"\n\nMore trouble! Sano hid his dismay. With Hoshina gone, he had no way to hold Yanagisawa to their deal." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He'd better find the yoriki before Yanagisawa did. He and his men mounted their horses and rode down Oike Avenue alongside Yanagisawa. The sun's hazy crimson orb floated above hills obscured by smoke and mist. Ruddy light bathed the crowds. The heavy odor of hot grease from kitchens overlaid the suffocating atmosphere.\n\n\"Have you found the outlaws and weapons?\" Sano asked Yanagisawa.\n\n\"Not yet.\" Yanagisawa's voice was tinged with defensive annoyance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Disappointed at this news, Sano told Yanagisawa that Lady Asagao had retracted her father's alibi." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So Right Minister Ichijo is looking to be a likely culprit, then?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "An enigmatic smile played over Yanagisawa's mouth. \"Interesting.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That doesn't mean the other suspects are out of the picture,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Include the following text] → \"And he knows something he's not telling us,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The thought of Kozeri festered in his mind like a wound. \"Lady Jokyōden refused to tell me where she was during Aisu's murder, and we still haven't connected Ichijo to the conspiracy.\"\n\n\"Not yet, anyway.\" Slapping the reins, Yanagisawa sped ahead of Sano.\n\n\"He wasn't just innocently minding his own business when he got arrested,\" Fukida scoffed.\n\n\"And he knows something he's not telling us,\" Marume said. Sano nodded in dismal agreement, thinking that he should have put Yanagisawa out of business when he'd had the chance. He gave Marume and Fukida new orders to deal with the problem, and then report back to him as soon as possible." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Where will you be?\" Fukida asked." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now it was Sano's turn for evasion, because he hated to lose face by admitting his mistake with Kozeri. \"If you need to reach me, leave a message at Nijō Manor,\" he said, then rode away." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Narrative Continuation Protocol:\nQuantity: 5 sentences\nStyle: Laura Joh Rowland\nGenre: Sano Ichiro 5\nContext: Part of larger work" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'their' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano had intended to head straight to Kodai Temple, but Reiko would be eager for news. He rode to Nijō Manor, where he found Reiko in their room, at the table, nibbling at a dinner of rice balls, grilled fish, and greens, and sipping tea. Sano knelt opposite his wife. Her polite bow reflected the uneasiness that had shadowed their parting that morning.\n\n\"The outlaws and weapons haven't been found yet,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm sorry to hear that.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Eyes downcast, Reiko gestured toward her meal. \"Do you want this? I don't seem to be very hungry.\"\n\n\"No thank you; I'm not hungry either.\"\n\nReiko glanced at his swords, which he hadn't removed as he usually did when he came home. \"Are you leaving again soon?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes,\" Sano said. Nervousness accelerated his heartbeat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Where are you going?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"To see Kozeri.\" The name tasted like poison." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Again?\" Now Reiko lifted a troubled gaze to his face. \"May I ask what for?\"\n\n\"Lady Asagao claims that Kozeri was in the palace when Left Minister Konoe died,\" Sano said. \"The imperial records don't show that she entered the compound on that date, but they do show that she was there when Aisu was murdered. She'd gone to see her family. According to them, she arrived in the evening, spent the night in their house in the kuge district, and left the next morning." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was her first visit since she entered the convent fifteen years ago." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Lady Asagao also said to ask Kozeri how her first husband died. Her family told me she'd been married to Left Minister Konoe's secretary, a young courtier named Ryōzen—the man who was murdered by Konoe.\" Too late, Sano had connected Kozeri with the crime that had put Konoe under the bakufu's power. \"In view of these new facts, I need to question her again.\"\n\nReiko's expression turned quizzical. \"I assumed you'd already questioned Kozeri's family to double-check her story about her marriage to the left minister. But even if not, wasn't the information on her first husband in the metsuke dossiers that Chamberlain Yanagisawa sent you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "To his disgrace, Sano had been convinced enough of Kozeri's innocence that he hadn't bothered to read her dossier." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You've already interviewed Kozeri twice,\" Reiko said, \"and you've only just found out that she had the opportunity to kill Aisu, and possibly Konoe? Didn't you ask her where she was when they died?\"\n\n\"No,\" Sano admitted, hot with embarrassment even though he had a good reason for his negligence. \"Whenever I was with Kozeri, I got a peculiar, dazed sensation in my mind, and a feeling that there was something important I was forgetting to ask her. Now I know why. The nuns at Kodai Temple practice shugendo. Kozeri focused her mental energy on my mind and prevented me from asking her where she was during the murders.\"\n\nTo his consternation, Sano saw disbelief on Reiko's face. She said, \"Kozeri used magical powers to manipulate you? Can that be possible?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If the power of kiai exists, then why not the power to control the mind?\" Sano said.\n\nReiko regarded him with doubt. \"It seems more likely that you didn't ask her important questions because you decided she's innocent. How could you favor a suspect and criticize me for trusting Lady Jokyōden?\"\n\nThis was dangerous territory. Sano had to steer the conversation away from the subject of what else had blinded him to Kozeri's deception." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He said, \"Speaking of Lady Jokyōden, she and Left Minister Konoe were once lovers.\"\n\n\"Oh? That's interesting.\" Caution veiled Reiko's gaze. \"How did you find out?\"\n\n\"From Lady Jokyōden herself.\" Sano described his interview with the emperor's mother, then bent an accusing look upon Reiko." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She said you knew. Why didn't you tell me?\"\n\nReiko sat up straight, lifted her chin, and said, \"She asked me to keep it a secret. I agreed because I thought that her relationship with Konoe was less important than what she gave me. Without Lady Jokyōden's help, we would never have discovered the conspiracy. I think my reason for trusting her is more credible than yours for favoring Kozeri.\" Suspicion narrowed Reiko's eyes. \"Is Kozeri beautiful?\"\n\nThe atmosphere in the room stretched tight as sails filled with storm winds. Sano forced a laugh." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Kozeri is a nun. Her head is shaved, and she's not young.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That isn't what I asked, but never mind—I can see the answer on your face.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko stood, regarding Sano with sickened comprehension." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It was your personal feeling for Kozeri, not magic, that made you forget to ask her for an alibi before you decided she was innocent.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko backed away from him, appalled.\n\nSano heard the hurt beneath the anger in her voice. Rising, he hurried over to Reiko, reaching for her clenched hands.\n\n\"It's not what you think,\" he said, stifling the guilty memory of caressing Kozeri. \"Nothing happened.\"\n\nReiko clasped her hands behind her so he couldn't touch them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How stupid do you think I am?\" she cried." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Abruptly, she turned away from Sano. Her shoulders trembled; he heard her ragged breathing. Her pain stabbed his heart. Standing before the painted mural of mountain landscapes, she was so beautiful and proud. Sano experienced a surge of desire for her, which further complicated his emotions." }, { "from": "human", "value": "How could he want anyone but Reiko?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "How could he regain her trust?\n\nHe said, \"Kozeri interfered with my thoughts. That's all.\" The lie pricked his conscience. \"It's you I love, and no one else.\"\n\n\"I don't believe you,\" Reiko said in a high, broken voice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You don't believe me because you haven't met Kozeri.\"\n\n\"No,\" said Reiko, \"I haven't.\" Turning, she faced Sano, her tearful gaze hard, like a pond freezing into ice. \"But it's time I did meet her.\"\n\nHorrified at the thought, Sano said quickly, \"That's not a good idea. If Kozeri is the killer, she's dangerous. She might hurt you. I already have the information about her relationship with Left Minister Konoe and his last visit to her. I only have to ask where she was during the murders. There's no need for you to...\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The contempt in Reiko's eyes halted his excuses." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But there is,\" she said. \"No matter whether Kozeri deceived you by magic or by feminine wiles, she's done it twice, and she could do it again. I'll have better luck getting answers from her.\"\n\nSano saw two choices, equally unacceptable. He could give Reiko her way and risk the chance that Kozeri would tell her about the episode by the river. Or he could refuse, jeopardize the investigation, and destroy his marriage." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Narrative Continuation Protocol:\nQuantity: 5 sentences\nStyle: Laura Joh Rowland\nGenre: Sano Ichiro 5\nContext: Part of larger work" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko in her palanquin, Sano on horseback, and their guards traveled along crowded streets bright with Obon lanterns. At Kodai Temple, they discovered that Kozeri wasn't at the convent because the nuns had gone to perform Obon dances at Gion Shrine. They journeyed there in silence. Since leaving Nijō Manor, Reiko had exchanged not a single word with Sano; her rage and pain were so intense that she could hardly bear to look at him. She couldn't believe that nothing had happened between him and Kozeri." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She hated her jealousy; she hated Sano for causing it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A sudden, heart-stopping thought struck her. In all the recent excitement, she'd forgotten to track her female cycle. Now Reiko calculated that her monthly bleeding should have started yesterday. It still hadn't. Missing twice in a row made pregnancy more certain. She became aware of a new fullness, a slight swelling, in her abdomen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She stared through the window of her palanquin at Sano riding beside her.\n\n\"Kozeri seems to spend as much time away from the convent as in it,\" Reiko said. \"Apparently, religious vows don't restrict her movements or ban her from the Imperial Palace.\"\n\n\"Apparently not,\" was all Sano said, though she knew she'd stung him by implying that he shouldn't have assumed a nun lacked freedom of movement or access to the crime scene. Yet her spite shamed her more than it relieved her anger." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Night had fallen, but the moist, smoky air reflected the lights of the city; the sky glowed an eerie purple." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Gion's teahouses glittered with parties." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Boisterous drunks thronged alleys lined with \"dog screens,\" bamboo barriers that kept stray dogs and rowdy pedestrians away from the buildings. Sano and Reiko left their guards outside the shrine and walked through the torii gate. Bright lanterns hung from trees above the gay, noisy crowds that milled among refreshment stalls; gongs chimed incessantly. Reiko heard drumbeats, which she and Sano followed to a courtyard outside the shrine's main building.\n\nA line of women dressed in billowing white robes glided, swayed, and gestured with slow, ritualistic motions." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In the light of lanterns strung across the courtyard, their shaved heads shone like pale moons." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A rapt audience watched the nuns, who turned in unison, clapped, and formed a circle. Male dancers wearing loincloths and straw hats surrounded them. As the two groups moved in opposite directions, a melancholy song rose from the spectators.\n\n\"Which one is she?\" Reiko said with deliberate calm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano pointed. \"That's Kozeri between the two elderly nuns.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He added, \"Please take care.\"\n\nBehind his stoic expression, Reiko read his fear of what she might learn from Kozeri—and what she might do. \"Wait here,\" she said.\n\nShe marched up to the dancers, watching Kozeri. The nun's figure was shapely and graceful." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her heavy-lidded eyes were somnolent as she dipped and undulated; her full lips curved in a serene smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As Sano had said, Kozeri wasn't young, but she looked ageless rather than old. Her shaved head only accentuated her beauty. Reiko had always taken her own beauty for granted, but hatred and jealousy overcame her.\n\n\"Kozeri-san!\" she shouted.\n\nThe nun turned. When she saw Reiko, a perplexed frown replaced her smile: She obviously wondered why a stranger should address her in such a peremptory tone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I want to speak with you,\" Reiko said, following Kozeri as the circle of dancers revolved." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Uncertainty clouded Kozeri's face, but she stepped out of the circle, joined Reiko, and bowed. \"Yes, Honorable Lady?\"\n\nHer soft, breathy voice hinted at the allure she held for men. \"I'm the wife of the shogun's sōsakan-sama,\" Reiko announced with all the imperious pride of her class.\n\n\"Oh.\" Kozeri looked dismayed. \"I didn't know he was married. I didn't know he had brought his wife to Miyako.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Of course Sano wouldn't have told her, Reiko reflected bitterly. \"I help my husband with his work,\" she said. \"We're investigating the murder of the left minister together, and I want to ask you some questions.\" Needing to show Kozeri that she and Sano had a close, special relationship, she didn't hide her purpose behind the false pretense that this was a social call. \"Come with me.\"\n\nKozeri hesitated, then said, \"Very well.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As Reiko led Kozeri through the crowds, she saw Sano frowning and waving at her from across the courtyard, signaling her to stay." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko ignored him. She and Kozeri walked to a deserted garden behind the building." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A lantern over the doorway shone through pine trees, casting a network of shadows across the grass. The chirp of crickets muffled the distant drumming and singing. Reiko and Kozeri faced each other. Kozeri folded her arms protectively across her bosom as she waited for Reiko to speak. Reiko was trembling inside, sick with a terrible curiosity." }, { "from": "human", "value": "What did he say to you?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "she wanted to ask." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What did you do together?\n\nYet she did not, because she dreaded the answers. Instead she said, \"Why didn't you tell my husband that you were in the palace during the murder three nights ago?\"\n\nKozeri's face mirrored dismay at Reiko's belligerence. \"I was just visiting my family. It didn't seem important.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't believe that's your only reason,\" Reiko said coldly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kozeri darted a longing glance toward the lights of the courtyard. Then she sighed and looked at the ground. \"I was afraid he would think I was the killer.\"\n\n\"Are you?\"\n\n\"No!\" Kozeri stared at Reiko, aghast." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did you know that my husband was in the palace that night?\" Reiko demanded.\n\n\"Not until the morning after, when my family received the news of his murder. Later we found out that it was somebody else who'd died.\" Kozeri licked her lips nervously. \"I don't even know who the man was. I never left my family's house that night.\" With a timid, beseeching smile, Kozeri said, \"I never meant to cause your husband any trouble. You must believe me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko regarded her with scorn." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Your wiles won't work on me. Right Minister Ichijo, Lady Jokyōden, Prince Momozono, and the emperor were all told that my husband was coming to the palace. I imagine that the news spread rapidly around the Imperial Court. You could have heard it and decided to kill my husband so he couldn't arrest you for the murder of Left Minister Konoe. You sneaked out of your family's house and went looking for him. But you found Chamberlain Yanagisawa and his men, and you mistook them for my husband's party. You killed the wrong person.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'kozeri' exactly 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's not so!\" Kozeri cried in panic. \"I didn't kill anyone. Ask your husband. He knows—\"\n\nHer protests faded under Reiko's glare; she sighed, bowed her head in defeat, and spoke in a low, forlorn voice: \"All right. I'll tell you what happened. The left minister came to Kodai Temple the day before he died. He said he was going to close down the convent and force me to return to him. Then he ordered me to come to the Pond Garden the next night, to celebrate a special occasion.\" Kozeri swallowed hard. \"I was terrified. When I was his wife, he beat me almost to death. I knew that if I had to live with him again, he would kill me. I had to save myself somehow.\"\n\nThis story, which contradicted what Kozeri had told Sano about her marriage and the time and nature of her last encounter with Konoe, only increased Reiko's distrust." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How could the left minister close down the convent, when the Imperial Court has no authority over religious orders?\" Reiko asked.\n\nKozeri lifted her hands, then let them fall. \"He said he could. I believed him.\"\n\nHad she been so convinced of her former husband's power over her that she'd taken the threat seriously? Reiko wondered. Or was Kozeri lying again?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What was the special occasion?\"\n\n\"He didn't say. I didn't ask. But I knew he meant to take his pleasure from me.\"\n\n\"Go on,\" Reiko said.\n\n\"I agreed to meet him,\" Kozeri said. \"The next night his attendants came to the temple after everyone there was asleep. They took me in a palanquin to the Imperial Palace. We traveled to the imperial enclosure without meeting anyone. We stopped in the Pond Garden, and the attendants took me to the cottage on the island. They lit a lantern and left me alone inside.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Prince Momozono claimed he'd seen a light in the cottage just before he and Emperor Tomohito discovered Konoe dead, Reiko remembered; there had indeed been someone else in the Pond Garden besides them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The secrecy with which Konoe had arranged the rendezvous explained why the imperial records showed no outsiders in the palace that night and Yoriki Hoshina hadn't identified Kozeri as a suspect." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"There was a sake decanter with two cups on the table in the cottage,\" Kozeri said. \"I sat and had a drink and prayed for the courage to kill the left minister.\"\n\nReiko couldn't believe what she'd heard. \"Wait. You admit you went to the Pond Garden to kill him?\"\n\n\"Yes.\" Kozeri moved into the shadows beneath a tree." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A breeze riffled the leaves, casting patterns of light and dark across her haunted face." }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Include the following text] → \"There was a terrible scream. It went on and on. I watched the left minister writhing in agony while blood gushed from him. Then he lay still. The scream stopped.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The pulse of drums punctuated the singing in the courtyard. \"I had a small vial inside my sleeve. It contained a drug that I'd bought from a peddler. I was going to pour it into the left minister's sake. After he drank, he would fall asleep and never awaken. I hoped I could slip away and everyone would think he'd died of a sudden illness.\"\n\nShe'd planned to use poison, not the power of kiai? Reiko listened, dumbfounded.\n\n\"Then I heard him call out, 'Help!' First he was running, then it sounded as if he were dragging himself across the ground. His breathing was loud and strange. I looked out the window and saw him standing by the cottage. He cried, 'No. Please, no.' I was terrified. Then—\"\n\nShuddering, Kozeri said, \"There was a terrible scream. It went on and on. I watched the left minister writhing in agony while blood gushed from him. Then he lay still. The scream stopped.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She fixed a strange, blurred gaze on Reiko." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The left minister was dead.\"\n\nShe'd wanted to kill him so he couldn't abuse her anymore, but the murderer had spared her the trouble. The explanation made sense to Reiko, and her skepticism waned. \"What did you do then?\" she asked.\n\n\"I knew that everyone in the palace would have heard the scream,\" Kozeri said, caressing the top of her bosom." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Someone would come and find the left minister. I didn't want them to think I'd killed him, so I blew out the lantern and ran away. In the kuge district, I found a watchtower with fire equipment underneath. I got a ladder and climbed the palace wall. I took the ladder with me and threw it in an alley so no one would know that someone had sneaked out of the compound. Then I walked back to Kodai Temple.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko felt a pang of sympathy for the nun who'd suffered so long and witnessed a terrible murder. \"Please forgive me for upsetting you,\" she said, taking Kozeri's soft, smooth hands in hers. \"I'll tell my husband what you said. Attempted murder is a crime, but under the circumstances, surely he'll pardon you.\"\n\nTears of gratitude streamed from Kozeri's eyes. \"A thousand thanks,\" she murmured, smiling gladly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're so understanding and kind.\"\n\nAlthough Reiko had never been attracted to women, touching Kozeri gave her a sensuous pleasure. Her anger dissolved in hazy confusion. She couldn't remember why she'd hated Kozeri just a moment ago. Sexual arousal burgeoned inside her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then realization jolted Reiko alert.\n\n\"You're doing to me what you did to my husband!\" she cried, recoiling from Kozeri.\n\n\"What?\" The nun gaped in surprise.\n\n\"You used mental energy to keep him from asking where you were during the murders. I didn't believe him when he told me, but I do now, because you're confusing me the same way!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now Reiko regretted accusing Sano of lying to her." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Fear shimmered in Kozeri's eyes, but she said bravely, \"Yes, but I meant you no harm. I just wanted you to believe me. I needed to make you like me so you wouldn't hurt me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And you made him want you.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'reiko' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As enlightenment dawned, Reiko cursed herself for doubting Sano's love for her.\n\nWhatever had happened between Sano and Kozeri hadn't been entirely his fault. If she could entice a woman, then what a strong effect her magic must have on men!\n\nReiko lashed out at Kozeri: \"Liar! You didn't try to poison the left minister. You didn't just watch him die. You murdered him, and Aisu too!\"\n\n\"I didn't!\" Hurt indignation welled in Kozeri's eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I wouldn't wish such an awful death on anyone.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Not even the man who murdered your first husband?\"\n\nThe blood drained from Kozeri's face, leaving her lips so white that Reiko could see red marks where she'd bitten them. \"How—how did you know?\"\n\n\"You were once married to Konoe's secretary. Konoe stabbed him to death. Then he married you. Somehow you discovered what Konoe had done. You plotted revenge.\"\n\nKozeri drew herself up; angry color blotched her cheeks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"All right. I knew. I hated the left minister for killing Ryōzen. I blamed him for the loss of the child I miscarried after the murder. But it all happened years ago. If I had wanted revenge against the left minister, I had plenty of opportunity when we lived together. Why would I wait so long?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'believe' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Because you didn't have the ability to murder him back then,\" Reiko retorted. \"Instead, you ran away. At Kodai Temple, the nuns taught you how to channel your mental energy through your voice. You acquired the power of kiai.\"\n\n\"That's ridiculous!\" Kozeri laughed, a shrill, hysterical sound. \"We do exercises that bring tranquility and enhance our prayers. We can influence people's thoughts, but we don't believe in violence.\"\n\n\"I don't believe you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Determined to implicate Kozeri in another crime, Reiko said, \"Have you ever been to Lord Ibe's house in the cloth dyers' district? Do you know the outlaws who've been living there? Where are they now? Where have they taken the weapons?\"\n\nWhile her mouth soundlessly formed the words outlaws and weapons, Kozeri looked at Reiko as if she'd gone mad. But Reiko conjectured that she'd befriended the outlaws during her travels through the city and joined their cause as a way to gain power against her former husband. What if she'd learned that Konoe had discovered the plot and decided to kill him before he could report it to the bakufu? She could have contacted Konoe, pretended she wanted a reconciliation, and arranged the secret meeting in the Pond Garden." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Don't pretend you don't understand.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Fists clenched, Reiko shouted into Kozeri's terrified face, \"Where are the weapons? What are the outlaws planning?\"\n\n\"I have no idea what you're talking about!\" Kozeri cried. Her eyes darted; she leaned away from Reiko, then blurted, \"There's something I've been wanting to tell your husband. Something that will help his investigation.\" When Reiko only stared at her in speechless fury, she said, \"As I was leaving the Pond Garden after the left minister died, I saw a man hiding in the shadows. It was Right Minister Ichijo.\"\n\nDid Kozeri think her gullible enough to fall for another trick?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko felt angry blood suffuse her face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Obviously daunted by Reiko's expression, Kozeri began to babble: \"He didn't see me, but I recognized him from when I lived in the palace.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her eager smile didn't erase the fear in her eyes. \"Don't you see what that means? There was somebody else in the garden besides me. Ichijo must have killed my former husband.\"\n\nReiko's emotions exploded. \"I don't want to hear any more of your lies!\" she shouted. \"Ichijo wasn't there. Only you.\"\n\n\"I'm not lying,\" Kozeri protested." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko grabbed her by the shoulders and shook her; Kozeri's head snapped back and forth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're part of the rebel conspiracy. You killed Konoe. Admit it!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Stop. You're hurting me.\"\n\nLimp and unresisting, Kozeri began to sob. Reiko understood how Konoe's love for her had turned to murderous rage. So meek yet so contrary, she was weak despite her magic powers, pitiful but exasperating.\n\nWas this what Sano wanted in a woman?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko had an impulse to strike Kozeri until she confessed and begged for mercy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "So much did she want Kozeri to be guilty and die for the crimes, she didn't care whether Kozeri could kill her with a scream." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The drums ceased with a burst of applause: The Obon dance had ended. Reiko heard Sano calling, \"Reiko-san! Where are you?\" She froze, immobilized by contrary urges. She wanted to run to her husband, but she dreaded facing him after what had just happened. She couldn't bear for Sano to find her and Kozeri like this, and she longed to flee, but not if that meant leaving him alone with Kozeri." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then Kozeri said in a plaintive voice, \"I can see why you think I'm guilty, but why do you hate me so much? Is it because you think your husband loves me?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That her jealousy was so obvious humiliated Reiko. She turned and stumbled away, not wanting to hear more.\n\n\"I tried to get him to make love to me because I wanted him, not just to trick him,\" Kozeri called after her. \"But he wouldn't. Now that I've met you, I understand why. He loves you. He wanted me, but he couldn't betray you.\"\n\nReiko halted in her tracks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "How she longed to believe that!" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But many men did commit adultery; while she'd thought Sano was different from other husbands, perhaps her trust in him had been naïve. Besides, Kozeri had lied and deceived too often. Didn't her claim that she and Sano hadn't coupled indicate that in fact they had?\n\nThen Reiko was running blindly. The speed of her flight chilled the tears that streamed down her cheeks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She didn't know what to think or do." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nor did she know whether to believe Kozeri's story about seeing Ichijo at the scene of Konoe's murder." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mode: Collab writing\nContext: May reference existing characters/world\nAmount: 11 sentences\nVoice: Laura Joh Rowland" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At the hour of the boar, business had ceased on Kawaramachi Avenue, except in a few teahouses. The wide avenue, which ran north and south past Miyako's main commercial district, resembled a long tunnel, with the high earthen wall of the Great Rampart on the east, rows of shops and houses lit by Obon lanterns on the west, and the purple-black night sky above. Gates in the rampart provided access to the Kamo River. At intersections, guards manned neighborhood gates. Although some residents already slumbered on mattresses spread on balconies to catch the river breezes, others sat in doorways, talking and smoking, while pedestrians drifted home from cemetery visits.\n\nThrough the thinning crowds walked Right Minister Ichijo, a solitary figure dressed in a modest gray kimono and wicker hat instead of his usual court costume. Leaning on his ebony cane, Ichijo maintained a brisk pace for a man his age, looking neither right nor left nor behind him. His elegant profile and stooped shoulders inclined forward as if he were impatient to reach his destination.\n\nChamberlain Yanagisawa followed at a discreet distance behind the right minister. Again he wore the garb of a rōnin. After chasing Lady Jokyōden's messenger, pursuing Ichijo was easy." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Either the right minister didn't think anyone would follow him, or he didn't care if they did." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Instead of weaving through alleys, he marched right down the middle of the street. He certainly didn't act like a man on a secret mission, but Yanagisawa believed that appearances lied.\n\nHis spies had turned up the interesting fact that Ichijo had told his staff he was going out alone tonight, without disclosing his plans. Did this herald one of the mysterious trips that Yoriki Hoshina had mentioned? Yanagisawa still yearned to believe that Hoshina had honestly tried to help him by unearthing genuine clues. He especially needed evidence against Ichijo because of what his spies had reported about Lady Jokyōden.\n\nServants claimed to have seen Jokyōden in her office shortly before hearing the scream that had killed Aisu. She'd also been there when the imperial watchmen went to inform her about the second murder. No one had seen her elsewhere. Although Yanagisawa didn't know why she'd refused to admit this to Sano, it seemed unlikely that she'd sneaked outside, killed Aisu, and gotten back to her office without anyone noticing her. If she hadn't murdered Aisu, then the probability that she'd murdered the left minister decreased; the messenger and the Daikoku Bank might have nothing to do with the conspiracy." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Use the word 'ichijo' 4 time(s) - this is a strict requirement" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Therefore, Ichijo was the prime suspect, now that Sano had broken his alibi for Konoe's murder. Yanagisawa hadn't told Sano about Ichijo's trips. If they revealed a connection between Ichijo and the rebels, Yanagisawa wanted to be the hero who arrested the killer and averted a civil war.\n\nAt the Gojo Avenue intersection, Ichijo stopped at a gate in the Great Rampart. Yanagisawa took cover in a doorway and watched Ichijo speak to the sentry, who opened the gate. The right minister vanished through it. Yanagisawa hurried over.\n\n\"Let me out,\" he ordered the sentry. \"Quickly!\"\n\n\"State your name and your business.\" The sentry regarded Yanagisawa's humble appearance with scorn.\n\nThis time Yanagisawa was prepared for encounters with officialdom. From his waist pouch he took a small scroll that gave his name and rank." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He showed it to the sentry." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The man was probably illiterate, but he recognized the shogun's personal seal on the document. He hastily let Yanagisawa through the gate.\n\nOutside the Great Rampart, Yanagisawa spied Ichijo walking down the stretch of Gojo Avenue that sloped toward a flight of stone steps leading down to the river. Together yet far apart, Ichijo and Yanagisawa descended these, then crossed the Gojo Bridge. Beneath it the Kamo rippled, faintly luminous. Lights twinkled on the opposite bank; bonfires smoldered. The smell of smoke, the laughter of couples strolling the embankment, music drifting from teahouses, and the warm night all evoked in Yanagisawa the memory of his night with Hoshina. A wave of longing swept through him.\n\nWhere was Hoshina now? The search parties had turned up no trace of him. Through sheer will, Yanagisawa banished the thought of the lover who'd betrayed him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ichijo walked off the bridge and into a deserted neighborhood of densely packed houses." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A few Obon lanterns still burned. Yanagisawa trod softly within the darkness beneath eaves and balconies so that Ichijo wouldn't notice him. He thought he'd conquered his fear of walking alone in the city, but now it revived. If Ichijo was the commander of the rebel outlaws, he would have to communicate with them somehow. He wouldn't let them come to the palace; nor could he send or receive messages that might be intercepted. He would have to meet his troops secretly. Was he on his way to their hiding place now? Yanagisawa wanted badly to locate it, but he dreaded an encounter with a band of rōnin, gangsters, and warrior priests. What if they caught him spying? And if Ichijo was the killer, Yanagisawa was in mortal danger.\n\nThe right minister quickened his steps." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Buildings gave way to a gleaming moat. From a tall stone foundation in its center rose a grassy earthen mound as high as the nearby houses and perhaps a hundred paces in diameter. A fence of stone pillars ringed the top of the foundation, enclosing a tree-shaded plateau from which loomed the mound's retaining wall.\n\nLagging behind in an alley, Yanagisawa watched the right minister march around the structure. It was crowned by a stone monument shaped like a squat pagoda. Lights from below illuminated characters engraved there. Reading them, Yanagisawa recognized the structure as the Ear Mound. This was the monument to Toyotomi Hideyoshi's war on Korea more than a century ago. Although the invasion had failed, Hideyoshi's forces had slain many defenders. Distance had prevented his army from following the usual practice of presenting the severed heads of their defeated enemies to their commander. Therefore, the ears of some forty thousand Korean soldiers had been pickled in brine, shipped to Japan, and entombed in the Ear Mound." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A bridge spanned the north side of the moat. Ichijo stepped onto it. Yanagisawa hid in the entryway of a house directly opposite the bridge, which led to stone steps in the Ear Mound's foundation. Above these, beyond an iron gate and the trees, more steps climbed to the base of the mound, where an altar held flowers, burning lamps, and a smoking incense vat. Ichijo walked to the first set of steps. He eased himself down, laid his cane across his lap, and wiped his brow. Then he folded his hands and sat motionless.\n\nTime passed. Yanagisawa grew impatient. Then he heard rapidly approaching hoofbeats. The right minister raised his head. He was meeting the outlaws here, Yanagisawa guessed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ichijo was too crafty to go to the rebels' den and risk leading spies there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A meeting in a public place could pass for a chance encounter. Anticipation and fear gripped Yanagisawa. He wanted to see the outlaws, learn their plans. But if they should discover him here in this lonely place, they would most certainly kill him.\n\nFrom an alley to his right emerged two samurai on horseback. They cast furtive glances around the Ear Mound. Ichijo waved. Yanagisawa peered through the bamboo lattice that screened his hiding place. The two samurai dismounted at the bridge, tied their horses to the posts, and walked toward Ichijo, who rose to meet them. A round of bows ensued, and greetings inaudible to Yanagisawa. Then the three men settled on the steps, their figures haloed by the light of the lamps on the altar behind them.\n\nYanagisawa slipped out of the entryway." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate this exact phrase, preserving the quotation marks: \"With the trouble we've had, you should be glad we made it at all,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sidling past buildings and across alleys, he circled the Ear Mound until he was behind it. He tiptoed to the edge of the moat. Now he distinguished three voices speaking in turn—one gruff, one a high whine, and Ichijo's.\n\n\"... took you long enough to get here,\" Ichijo was saying. \"You were supposed to be waiting for me.\"\n\n\"We came as soon as we could,\" said Gruff Voice.\n\n\"With the trouble we've had, you should be glad we made it at all,\" whined the other man.\n\n\"I hired you to handle trouble,\" Ichijo said coldly. \"I hired you to obey my orders, and I expect to get the service you promised.\"\n\n\"Well, we expect to be treated better than slaves.\" Belligerence harshened Gruff Voice's tone." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"After all, we're risking our lives to do your dirty work.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You knew the duties the job entailed. You knew the danger,\" Ichijo retorted. \"If you're too lazy and cowardly to go on, then I've no use for you. I can't afford to leave such important matters in the hands of unreliable men. Unless you fulfill your part of the bargain, you won't reap the rewards.\"\n\nYanagisawa's heart began to race. The two samurai were rōnin, possibly the ones from Lord Ibe's house. If \"trouble\" meant the hasty relocation of troops and weapons, then \"important matters\" referred to the imperial restoration, and \"rewards\" to the spoils of war.\n\n\"All right, all right; we're sorry we were late,\" the Whiner said quickly.\n\nGruff Voice said, \"This place makes me nervous. Let's hurry up so we can get out of here.\"\n\nThere was a brief silence. Then Ichijo said, \"How are they?\"\n\n\"Safe and well,\" said Gruff Voice.\n\nIchijo's allies, Yanagisawa thought; secure in their positions, waiting for the command to march." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Has my merchandise arrived?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes. The last of it came twelve days ago.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The guns and ammunition, manufactured illegally and smuggled into Miyako a little at a time?\n\n\"Well, then.\" An odd sadness tinged Ichijo's tone. \"I suppose you'd best be on your way.\"\n\nThere was a clink of gold coins.\n\n\"Is this all?\" Gruff Voice said with disapproval.\n\nIchijo said, \"You'll get more later.\"\n\nWhen the emperor rules Japan and the Imperial Court commandeers the nation's wealth? A thrill shot through Yanagisawa. He was sure he'd just witnessed Ichijo advancing payment for mounting a war against the Tokugawa. With great relish Yanagisawa looked forward to arresting Ichijo. He could hardly wait to see the look on Sano's face when he..." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A familiar sensation, like invisible hands on his skin, disturbed Yanagisawa: Someone was watching him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Instinctively he crouched, scanning the alleys and rooftops. In the darkness, he couldn't see anyone, but the menacing hidden presence revived the terror of the attack in the Imperial Palace. Was the killer stalking him again?\n\nBut that was impossible, with the killer sitting just around the curve of the Ear Mound. Yanagisawa heard Ichijo and the samurai talking, although his panic reduced their words to gibberish. Could there be more than one killer? Was it Hoshina? Yanagisawa wanted to learn more about the conspirators' plans, but he had to get away, fast.\n\nThen he heard Ichijo say, \"Farewell. We shall meet again soon. Until then, I place my faith in you.\"\n\nFootsteps tapped across the bridge. The horses' bridles clanked as the samurai untied them. Yanagisawa guessed that Ichijo's parting words to the mercenaries meant that he planned to launch the revolt in the near future." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 12 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was entrusting them to deploy the troops and weapons, while he carried on his normal existence until the battle. Yanagisawa's samurai instinct, for so long buried beneath personal ambitions and torments, now challenged his fear for his own safety. A forgotten sense of duty spurred his determination to catch the traitors. Peering around the Ear Mound, he saw the two samurai ride off down an alley. He sprang up to follow.\n\nBut old habit persisted. Yanagisawa thought of the hidden watcher. Only a fool tracks outlaws to their den alone! warned his inner voice.\n\nHesitation cost him his chance. By the time he raced after the two samurai, there was no sign of them. He could hear their horses' hoofbeats receding into the distance, but although he spent hours looking for the outlaws, they'd vanished into the night." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "keep the story goin for one sentence more. Sano Ichiro 5 genre, Laura Joh Rowland style. characters might be from earlier chapters" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm going out now,\" Sano said to Reiko the next morning." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When they'd returned to Nijō Manor last night, he'd found a message from Detective Fukida, alerting him to a matter that required action today." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Will you be all right?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes.\" Seated by the window of their room in Nijō Manor, Reiko was immaculately dressed and groomed, her face pale and drawn but composed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She did not look at Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Are you sure?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Last night he'd caught her as she ran from Gion Shrine, wild-eyed and breathless." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He hurried her back to Nijō Manor, where she'd calmed down enough to tell him that Kozeri had admitted being in the Pond Garden during Left Minister Konoe's murder, but claimed that she'd seen Right Minister Ichijo afterward." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano didn't know whether to believe it, but he guessed that more had transpired than Reiko would say." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In bed, she'd lain rigid and silent beside him, and this morning he'd awakened to find her brooding by the window." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He desperately wanted to know what had happened between her and Kozeri, yet he was afraid to ask." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now Reiko said, \"I'll be fine. Don't worry about me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What will you do today?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I thought I'd finish examining the papers from Left Minister Konoe's office. Maybe there are clues somewhere.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano welcomed her interest in the case as a sign that they still had common ground." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Always eager for the truth, he longed to break through her reticence. \"Reiko-san,\" he began." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He heard apprehension in her voice; she still wouldn't look at him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Forcing her to talk now would only make things worse." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He said, \"Marume has been questioning the associates of Yoriki Hoshina to find out where he might have gone, with no luck. Hoshina seems to have vanished completely. But Fukida had interesting news. He thinks Chamberlain Yanagisawa is on to something important that he doesn't want us to know about.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Rising, Reiko moved to the boxes of papers, knelt, and bent her head over them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I hope you find out what it is.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you.\" Sano paused, then said, \"Good-bye.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Good-bye.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Things couldn't continue like this, Sano thought as he left the inn. Something had to break, and he hoped that when the air cleared, they would find happiness again." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Narrative Continuation Protocol:\nQuantity: 5 sentences\nStyle: Laura Joh Rowland\nGenre: Sano Ichiro 5\nContext: Part of larger work" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano, Marume, and Fukida strode into the private quarters of Nijō Castle, where Chamberlain Yanagisawa was finishing his morning meal. Outside the open rain doors, the shady garden looked deceptively cool, but the glaring, hazy sky visible above the rooftops heralded another sultry day. And Sano's temper was as hot as the weather.\n\nWithout preliminary greetings, he said to Yanagisawa, \"When were you going to tell me about Right Minister Ichijo?\" He paused, then added accusingly, \"Or weren't you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Whatever are you talking about?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The picture of innocence, Yanagisawa wiped his lips on a napkin. The bruises on his face had darkened to a lurid bluish purple, but the swelling had gone down. \"I've already told you all I know.\"\n\n\"Don't bother with denials,\" Sano said, furious. He heard Yanagisawa's bodyguards stir behind the sliding walls." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Use the word 'followed' 2 time(s) - this is a strict requirement" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You followed Ichijo to the Ear Mound and listened to his conversation with two samurai he met there.\"\n\nLifting his tea bowl, the chamberlain's hand gave an involuntary jerk.\n\n\"I followed you,\" said Fukida.\n\nYanagisawa surged to his feet and glared at Sano. \"Of all the low, silly tricks. With a killer on the loose and an insurrection brewing, you squander effort by sending a flunky to spy on me, as if I were the criminal! We're working together, remember?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I haven't forgotten, but obviously you have.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano faced down Yanagisawa." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'yanagisawa' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't try to confuse the issue. Putting surveillance on you turned out to be a good idea, didn't it? You wouldn't spy on Ichijo unless it was important to the case. I want to know why you followed him and what you learned.\"\n\nYanagisawa gave Sano an insolent smile. \"Nothing.\"\n\n\"You were close enough to hear what Ichijo and those samurai were saying,\" Fukida said.\n\n\"Shut up,\" Yanagisawa ordered without looking at him. To Sano he said, \"Even if I did hear something, why should I tell you? Many thanks for breaking Right Minister Ichijo's alibi, but you and I are finished. I know Ichijo is responsible for the murders and the imperial restoration conspiracy.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Marume and Fukida looked at Sano, who experienced a rapid, jarring sequence of reactions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "First came dismay: Yanagisawa had solved the case, and with Hoshina gone, Sano had no proof of Yanagisawa's earlier sabotage and therefore no way to discredit his enemy's victory. Then he felt anger: The chamberlain had beaten Sano by using the results of his work, then pursuing leads behind his back. Next came fear of dishonor, loss of his post, and the destruction of his family. But Sano saw a glimmer of hope: If Ichijo was the traitor and murderer, then Kozeri wasn't. Maybe she'd told Reiko the truth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Could Sano and Reiko forget her and put their quarrel behind them?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Recovering his equilibrium, Sano said to Yanagisawa, \"You let Ichijo's friends get away last night. If you'd told me about your plans, we might have captured them. And if Ichijo is the killer, then why haven't you arrested him?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The narrowing of Yanagisawa's eyes told Sano he'd hit a nerve. \"Ichijo may very well be the leader of the conspiracy, but you're afraid you won't be able to make him tell you where the outlaws and weapons are. You need me, because you can't think what to do next.\"\n\n\"You're insane,\" Yanagisawa declared.\n\n\"You know I'm right,\" Sano said.\n\n\"Get out of here.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Good luck.\" Sano nodded to Marume and Fukida, who followed him to the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I suppose you don't want to hear my plan for coercing Ichijo. Oh, and you'd better just hope that what I've discovered about him isn't the critical piece of evidence you need to get his cooperation.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano and his men had walked halfway down the corridor when they heard Yanagisawa call, \"Wait.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'yanagisawa' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marume and Fukida grinned at Sano. They all returned to the chamber, where Yanagisawa said, \"Well? What's this critical evidence you have?\"\n\n\"First I want to know what you learned from spying on the right minister last night,\" Sano said.\n\nThe chamberlain's expression turned murderous. Sano nodded encouragingly. At last Yanagisawa grimaced in exasperation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The two samurai are rōnin who work for Ichijo.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After describing their conversation, he said, \"They must be part of the army he recruited to overthrow the Tokugawa. But they didn't mention when or where they'll attack, and I don't know where they are now.\"\n\nExcitement coursed through Sano, followed by unwilling admiration for his enemy. Yanagisawa had established an apparent connection between Ichijo and the restoration conspiracy. Sano asked, \"How did you think to spy on Ichijo?\"\n\nYanagisawa's ominous look warned Sano off the subject." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's your turn to talk.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Before I say anything, I want you to reinstate our partnership,\" Sano said.\n\nYanagisawa nodded grudgingly.\n\n\"I also want you to agree that you won't sneak around behind my back again, sabotage me, or try to harm me in any way while we're working together.\"\n\n\"All right, all right!\" Yanagisawa threw up his hands." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You have my word. Now tell me what you know about Ichijo. And it had better be good.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Although Sano didn't trust Yanagisawa's word, he had to be content with their pact if they were to go on together. \"I have a witness who saw Ichijo at the scene of Left Minister Konoe's murder,\" he said, and told Kozeri's story, which Yanagisawa's news about Ichijo had convinced him to believe.\n\n\"A witness.\" Yanagisawa spoke with relief as well as satisfaction. Obviously he'd still harbored uncertainty about Ichijo. \"The right minister's attempt to cover up Konoe's murder also supports his guilt. So what's your plan for him?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We confront him with the evidence,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We give him a chance to confess and turn in his confederates. If he refuses, we lock him up and interrogate him continuously. He eats, sleeps, and bathes only when we permit him; he sees no one except us. We don't mistreat him, but he's a proud man who's used to being in control; imprisonment will break him eventually.\"\n\n\"But that could take forever!\" Yanagisawa said.\n\n\"When Ichijo's mercenaries hear of his arrest, they'll worry that he'll turn them in,\" Sano said. \"They'll run for their lives. The rebellion will fall apart.\" He lifted a hand, forestalling Yanagisawa's objections." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But we don't just wait for that to happen. While one of us is wearing Ichijo down, the other will be giving the same treatment to Emperor Tomohito.\"\n\nApproval dawned on Yanagisawa's face.\n\n\"Ichijo must have told the emperor some details of the plot,\" Sano went on. \"I think His Majesty can be persuaded to inform on Ichijo in exchange for keeping his throne.\"\n\n\"A brilliant scheme,\" Yanagisawa admitted with a calculating look in his eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm glad I thought of it.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Though Marume and Fukida frowned at the theft of their master's idea, Sano nodded, willing to give Yanagisawa credit for his plan if it meant they could deliver a killer to justice and avert a war.\n\nYanagisawa said, \"What are we waiting for?\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Keep going w/ 3 sentences more. Note: Might reference existing chars" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The brilliant plan crumbled as soon as they rode up to the Imperial Palace. Tokugawa troops had gathered outside the compound, along with a battalion of yoriki, doshin, and civilian police assistants. The commanders shouted urgent orders." }, { "from": "human", "value": "While Sano, Marume, Fukida, and Yanagisawa watched in bewilderment, the whole army swarmed into the city." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa approached the gate, where two scared-looking watchmen stood guard. \"What's going on?\" he asked.\n\nBowing, they answered, \"The emperor is missing!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Stunned, Sano looked at Marume and Fukida." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Their exclamations echoed his alarm.\n\n\"Where is Shoshidai Matsudaira?\" Yanagisawa demanded.\n\n\"At the emperor's residence,\" chorused the watchmen." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Can this have anything to do with the murder case?\" Fukida asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't know,\" Sano said, \"but if something bad has happened to the emperor, it could mean disaster.\"\n\nAny misfortune that befell the sacred sovereign heralded trouble for all of Japan: earthquakes, fires, typhoons, famine. And if Emperor Tomohito should die, even a temporary break in the continuity of the imperial succession would create disorder in the cosmos and evil among mankind." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa had already dismounted and marched into the palace compound." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano, Marume, and Fukida leapt off their horses and followed. Watchmen and Tokugawa troops ran up and down the lanes of the kuge quarter. In the sunbaked courtyard of the emperor's residence, anxious court nobles and ladies stood apart from a crowd of angry samurai officials." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Shoshidai Matsudaira hurried out of the latter group and flung himself on the ground at Yanagisawa's feet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Oh, Honorable Chamberlain,\" the shoshidai wailed, \"I apologize for letting the emperor disappear. I've failed in my duty. I shall commit seppuku to atone for my negligence.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Stop whining and tell me exactly what happened,\" Yanagisawa said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How long has the emperor been gone?\"\n\nRight Minister Ichijo left the group of nobles and came over. \"No one has seen His Majesty since he retired to his bedchamber last night. His attendants discovered that he was missing when they went to wake him for his sunrise prayer ritual. When His Majesty wasn't found after a search of the palace, I notified the shoshidai. But he could have disappeared hours before daybreak.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Have you examined his quarters?\" Sano asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes,\" said Ichijo. \"Everything was in order. A set of daytime clothes is missing from his wardrobe.\"\n\n\"Then he probably went voluntarily,\" Sano deduced. \"How did he get out of the palace?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He must have climbed over the wall.\"\n\n\"Had he said or done anything recently that might indicate where he was going or why?\" Sano watched Yanagisawa fuming over the catastrophe and the disruption of their plans." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Not that I've been able to determine,\" Ichijo said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"His attendants say he acted perfectly normal; he told them nothing. And the idiot Prince Momozono is nowhere to be found. I suspect he went with His Majesty.\"\n\nAn imperial watchman ran into the courtyard, waving a scroll with gold chrysanthemum crests on the ends, bound in gold silk cord. \"Here's a letter from His Majesty. I found it hanging in the Purple Dragon Hall.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for eight sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Don't bother looking for me. We shall meet again soon enough, and then the whole world will know what I've done. This is the dawn of a new era. Tonight I shall lead my army in battle against the Tokugawa oppressors who have subjugated the imperial throne for too long. I shall seize the capital and take my place as the rightful ruler of the land. No one can stop me. The gods have decreed my triumph. Until then, farewell.\n\nThe Divine Emperor Tomohito'\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "CONTINUE STORY SEGMENT. PARAMETERS: 12 sentences sentences, Laura Joh Rowland style, Sano Ichiro 5 genre. NOTE: PART OF LARGER NARRATIVE." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A stunned silence hung over the courtyard, thick as the sweltering heat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano shook his head in confusion. This new development marked Emperor Tomohito as the instigator of the imperial restoration conspiracy, but what about all the evidence against Right Minister Ichijo?\n\nThe watchman said, \"The sacred sword is missing from the treasure storehouse. His Majesty's suit of armor is gone, too.\"\n\nA woman emerged from the mass of court ladies. At first Sano didn't recognize Lady Jokyōden. She wore a dressing gown, no makeup, and her hair loose; in the crisis of the emperor's disappearance, she must have forgotten to dress. Instead of a youthful Miyako beauty, she looked like a middle-aged woman ravaged by horror.\n\n\"My rash, foolish son!\" Jokyōden cried, wringing her hands.\n\nChaos broke loose. Courtiers loudly disclaimed any involvement with the rebellion; sobs arose from the ladies. The whole group surged toward the courtyard gate. Sano understood their fear of being punished as unwitting parties to treason, but the last thing he needed was a disturbance in the court." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Restrain them!\" he called to the bakufu officials. \"Put everyone in the palace under house arrest!\"\n\nThe officials hastened to obey. Yanagisawa turned on Right Minister Ichijo. \"You're responsible for this. You put the emperor up to the revolt. You recruited the army and planned the siege!\"\n\nWith haughty dignity Ichijo said, \"I have no part in His Majesty's actions. If I had known of his plans, I would have dissuaded him from going.\"\n\n\"Don't lie to me!\" Yanagisawa shouted. \"I saw you with those rōnin last night. They're your mercenaries. You paid them combat wages for the battle that the emperor thinks he's leading. Where will they launch the attack?\"\n\nIchijo's face went ashen with shock. \"You... saw me?\" He staggered backward, leaning heavily on his cane. \"But my business with those men has nothing to do with the emperor, or a conspiracy against the Tokugawa.\"\n\n\"Lady Asagao has admitted that you weren't with her when Left Minister Konoe died,\" Sano said, \"and we have a witness who saw you in the Pond Garden immediately after the murder.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes... I was there. But I didn't kill him.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 8 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ichijo spoke in a distracted tone, as if he neither knew nor cared what he was saying.\n\n\"Yes, you did!\" Yanagisawa said. \"You murdered Aisu, and you tried to murder me, too. Confess! Tell me where the emperor is!\"\n\nIchijo's eyes were glazed as he murmured, \"Konoe... Merciful gods. I should have guessed...\" He swayed dizzily and collapsed in a faint.\n\n\"Wake up!\" Yanagisawa slapped Ichijo, but the right minister remained unconscious. The bakufu officials herded the court nobles and ladies away. Yanagisawa glared at Sano. \"What brilliant scheme do you propose now?\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll be your writing partner for this section. I'll provide a segment, and you continue with two sentences, channeling Laura Joh Rowland in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre. Characters may have backstories from previous chapters." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The next hours passed in a blur. By afternoon, search parties had covered much of the capital without locating the emperor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Right Minister Ichijo had regained consciousness, but continued to insist that he knew nothing about the rebels." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A distraught Lady Jokyōden insisted likewise. Both suspects were under house arrest along with the rest of the Imperial Court." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Soldiers now guarded all approaches to Miyako; cannon had been mounted along the Great Rampart, and all samurai in the area drafted into service." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yet the local Tokugawa army numbered only the few thousand required to maintain a visible presence during almost a century of peace. The rebels might have recruited more than this, and could launch a violent bid for power even though the emperor's foolish announcement of his plans had lost them the advantage of surprise." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nijō Castle now assumed its proper role as a military fortification. Troops occupied the guard turrets." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano and Yanagisawa, like rival generals forced to unite against a common threat, shared a hasty meal in the private chambers.\n\n\"Maybe we already have the clue we need to find the emperor and prevent the revolt,\" Sano said, scooping noodles into his mouth with chopsticks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa drank tea. \"Not those mysterious coins? Even if we had time for them, I seriously doubt whether they would help us solve our immediate problem.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I wasn't talking about the coins,\" Sano said, \"although I have found out that they're linked with a local gangster clan, the Dazai. I meant the papers you took from Left Minister Konoe's office. If he was spying on the rebels, perhaps he knew where they planned to assemble and wrote down the information.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've already been through those papers, and I can't recall seeing anything that might be a reference to a siege on Miyako.\"\n\n\"It wouldn't hurt to check again,\" Sano said.\n\nWith a shrug, Yanagisawa conceded, \"What have we got to lose?\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for eight sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Sano arrived at Nijō Manor, Reiko met him at the gate, her face vivid with anxiety." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I've been watching the soldiers march through the city,\" she cried as Sano dismounted from his horse." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Remember to mention: \"The shoshidai has ordered all the samurai at the inn to report for military duty. Does this mean the revolt is going to start soon?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The shoshidai has ordered all the samurai at the inn to report for military duty. Does this mean the revolt is going to start soon?\"\n\n\"Yes.\" Sano explained about the emperor's letter and disappearance. \"Unfortunately, we don't know when or where the rebels will attack.\"\n\n\"What are you going to do?\"\n\nAt least they were speaking again, Sano thought. A stable boy took charge of his horse, and he went into the inn with Reiko. \"You and I will review the papers from Left Minister Konoe's office.\"\n\nIn their room Sano discovered that Reiko had emptied the boxes; journals, scrolls, and loose pages lay sorted into piles around the room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Pointing at various piles, she described their contents: \"These are the left minister's calendars, which list meetings, ceremonies, and holidays. Those are his notes on palace business. Drafts of imperial edicts. Letters from the bakufu and other court nobles. Banquet menus. His diaries include the history of his rivalry with Right Minister Ichijo, insults toward Lady Jokyōden, and complaints about Emperor Tomohito's bad behavior, but if there's anything here to say who killed him, I can't find it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That doesn't matter. Chamberlain Yanagisawa and I are almost certain that Ichijo is the murderer,\" Sano said.\n\nReiko stood perfectly still as Sano told her about the apparent link between Ichijo and the imperial restoration conspiracy.\n\n\"Ichijo admits he was in the Pond Garden during Konoe's murder,\" Sano finished, \"and his alibi for Aisu's murder is weak. As a high court official and intelligent, ambitious politician, he's the likeliest instigator of the revolt, although he claims he's innocent and won't talk. What I hope to find in the papers is a clue to the rebels' strategy.\"\n\n\"Then Kozeri really did see him. She told me the truth.\" Reiko dropped to her knees. Wide-eyed, she pressed a hand to her throat as if choking.\n\n\"What's wrong?\" Alarmed, Sano knelt beside his wife.\n\nTo his delight, Reiko leaned into his embrace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He felt her trembling as she spoke through sobs: \"Last night Kozeri said she'd tried to seduce you, but you wouldn't let her because you love me. I didn't believe her then, but I can now. And I know that she did use magic to deceive and entice you, because she tried the same thing with me. Please forgive me for doubting you!\"\n\nSano held Reiko tight. Almost weeping himself in the bliss of their reunion, Sano whispered, \"It's all right now.\" He thanked fate for the way the threads of the case had woven together.\n\nAfter a moment Reiko disengaged from him. \"Enough,\" she said, wiping away tears. Her voice was brusque, but her face shone with relief and happiness. \"We have work to do.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They began going through the papers she'd sorted. Even with a war looming on the horizon, Sano found a keen pleasure in their task. Still, as he pored over documents, his hope of a successful search waned.\n\n\"I'm not finding anything useful,\" he said. \"Maybe the information is in code.\"\n\nReiko laid aside a scroll and took up another. \"If so, I didn't recognize it. The meaning of all these writings seems perfectly clear to me. I can identify the purpose of each document, and there are no ambiguous phrases. I haven't seen anything that I would judge as not what it appears to be.\"\n\n... ambiguous phrases... the meaning... seems perfectly clear... not what it appears to be... Reiko's words formed a mesh of sound that drifted like a net through Sano's mind and snared a dim, amorphous memory." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Where had he recently read an ambiguous phrase whose meaning had seemed clear, but might not have been what it seemed? Instinct told him that the answer was critically important. Holding his breath, Sano concentrated. The memory crystallized into bright clarity.\n\n\"We're looking in the wrong place,\" he said.\n\nReiko glanced at him in surprise. \"You mean you don't think the information is in Left Minister Konoe's papers?\"\n\n\"Yes, I do,\" Sano said, \"but these aren't his only papers.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He hurried to the cabinet." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Konoe also wrote those letters to Kozeri.\" With trembling fingers Sano took out the last letter. \"This was written seven days before Konoe's murder. Listen.\" He read the angry expressions of unrequited love, concluding with the passage he'd recalled:\n\n\"'Soon the forces of defense and desire will clash upon the lofty, sacred heights where spires pierce the sky, feathers drift, and clear water falls.'\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Expand the story by adding 7 sentences. Context: May include pre-existing characters and lore." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It sounds like a poetic allusion to sex between a man who wants it and a woman who doesn't,\" Reiko said, \"which describes the relationship between the left minister and Kozeri.\"\n\n\"That's what I thought at first. But what if he's describing a different kind of struggle, at a real place? 'Forces of defense and desire' could mean the Tokugawa army and the rebels who want to take over Japan.\" Another inspiration struck Sano. \"Didn't you say that Konoe had asked Kozeri to meet him at the palace to celebrate a 'special occasion'?\"\n\nReiko nodded; comprehension sparkled in her eyes. \"He asked her six days after he wrote the letter, and one day before his death. Maybe he was hinting in the letter that he'd discovered the rebels' strategy—\"\n\n\"And where they planned to launch the attack,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The 'special occasion' was the revolt, which would fail because Konoe was going to report it to the bakufu in time for the army to—\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Include the following text] → \"Reward Konoe by granting his request to shut down the Kodai Temple convent and force Kozeri to go back to him,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Head off the siege of Miyako. Then the bakufu would—\"\n\n\"Reward Konoe by granting his request to shut down the Kodai Temple convent and force Kozeri to go back to him,\" Reiko finished triumphantly.\n\nExhilarated by their shared reasoning, they laughed together. \"I found the clue on our first day in Miyako, but I didn't recognize its significance,\" Sano said. \"Now we just have to figure out where this place is.\"\n\n\"Lofty, sacred heights,\" Reiko mused. \"Maybe Konoe was talking about a mountain, but if so, which one?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Spires could mean a temple,\" Sano said, \"though there must be as many of those as there are mountains in the Miyako area.\"\n\n\"Drifting feathers and clear water?\" Reiko shook her head.\n\n\"That part doesn't make any sense to me.\"\n\n\"I've read something like that before, in writings about Miyako...\" Sano thought hard, but couldn't grasp the memory. \"My knowledge of the city is limited, but a local citizen might recognize the reference.\"\n\nHe rushed out the door and found the innkeeper's wife kneeling in the corridor, her ear to the wall." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She gasped in alarm and said, \"Hello, master.\"\n\n\"Please come in,\" Sano said, hurrying her into the room. He read her the passage from the letter. \"Does that suggest anything to you?\"\n\nThe woman smiled, obviously relieved because he didn't scold her for eavesdropping. \"Oh, of course. It means Kiyomizu Temple—the Clear-Water Temple on Sound-of-Feathers Mountain. A very beautiful place. You must see it while you're in Miyako.\"\n\n\"I expect I will. Many thanks for your help.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now Sano recalled what he'd read." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kiyomizu Temple, strategically situated on high ground, had been for centuries a favored spot for mobilizing troops and a secret rendezvous site of spies and rebels. He and Reiko exchanged jubilant smiles, but immediately sobered as their gazes moved to the window. It was nearly dusk.\n\nThere wasn't much time to head off the rebels' attack." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "hey can u write four sentences more sentences? like Laura Joh Rowland but Sano Ichiro 5 style. btw this is from middle of a story" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was the last night of Obon. The time had come for the visiting souls of the dead to leave the world of the living. Throughout Miyako, people threw stones on roofs to drive the spirits away. As the pale pink sunset sky deepened to magenta, crowds converged upon the Kamo River." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They launched small straw boats, each containing incense, a lantern to light the spirits' way to the netherworld, food for the journey, and written prayers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The water became a sparkling stream of lights. Huge bonfires in the shape of auspicious characters burned on the hillsides, guiding the spirits back to the cemeteries.\n\nMarching southeast from Nijō Castle, the Tokugawa army, two thousand strong, made slow progress through streets flocked with citizens. \"Make way!\" shouted the banner bearers at the head of the procession." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Take cover. Go home!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Gunners, archers, and mounted troops pushed through the heedless crowds. Sano, clad in full armor, rode at the end with the commanders. He said to Marume and Fukida, \"The rebels probably chose tonight to attack because they thought the entire militia would be busy participating in the Obon rites.\"\n\n\"If not for the emperor's decision to announce his plans, they might have succeeded in capturing Miyako,\" said Marume." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"They might still cause mass destruction,\" Fukida said, \"if we don't get to Kiyomizu Temple in time.\"\n\nThe army crossed the Gojo Bridge. Below, tiny bright boats floated downstream. For Sano, the scene had the atmosphere of a nightmare." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The long Tokugawa peace had lulled the samurai class into complacency; never had he imagined riding off to civil war, except in fantasy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But fantasy had become reality. Beneath his metal breastplate, Sano's heart thudded like the urgent cadence of a war drum. He smelled the sharp odor of nerves and anticipation rising from his comrades. Would he fulfill the ultimate samurai destiny of dying in battle for his lord?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano offered a silent prayer that he and Reiko would be safely reunited." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She was in Nijō Manor, protected by her guards, and she'd promised that if the war reached the city, she wouldn't join the fight. Sano hoped she would keep that promise.\n\nSomeone rode up beside him. \"Are you ready, sōsakan Sano?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was Chamberlain Yanagisawa, mounted on a black steed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He wore a magnificent suit of red-lacquered armor and a golden-horned helmet. Since learning the rebels' plans, he'd applied his impressive organizing skills to the task of defending the regime. He'd marshaled the best fighters and gotten them under way in an impossibly short time, while leaving forces behind to guard the city. Sano had been amazed to discover that inside the corrupt chamberlain beat the heart of a samurai." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now, as they rode through the eastern suburbs toward Kiyomizu Temple, Sano bowed to Yanagisawa, who looked the perfect general, ready to inspire his troops to victory. Never had Sano envisioned fighting under the command of the man who'd so often tried to destroy him. Yet the ancient mystique of great warriors like Tokugawa Ieyasu and Toyotomi Hideyoshi surrounded Yanagisawa like a magic spell. The warrior in Sano cleaved to it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He willingly placed his life in his enemy's service." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You understand your orders?\" Yanagisawa said. The gaze he swept over Sano, Marume, and Fukida was clear of animosity, focused on larger concerns than personal strife.\n\n\"Yes, Honorable Chamberlain. We three will find the emperor and capture him alive,\" Sano said.\n\n\"Good. I'm counting on you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As Yanagisawa moved on to confer with his other commanders, Sano felt strangely uplifted by the encounter." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Surely all the men present would fight their best for Yanagisawa tonight.\n\nThe approach to Kiyomizu Temple led the army up a steep incline, along a narrow lane of shops where craftsmen had produced pottery for generations. High above loomed the temple gate, its square arch and flaring roof stark against a landscape of forested cliffs. The sky was the color of a fresh wound." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A murmur rippled through the ranks of the army: \"Listen!\"\n\nFrom beyond the gate came the thunder of hoofbeats. Torches borne through the temple precinct by the approaching rebel army cast an eerie glow. Sano felt battle lust consuming him and his allies like invisible flames." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Chamberlain Yanagisawa called, \"Ambush them at the top of the hill!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The army surged forward, reaching the crest just as several thousand rebels stampeded through the gate and down broad stone stairs leading to a plaza. Some were samurai in elaborate armor, but many wore ragged peasant clothes. Gangsters sported leather tunics over bare, tattooed skin. White hoods cowled the shaved heads of priests in saffron robes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Banner bearers waved flags imprinted with the imperial crest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Foot soldiers carried bows, guns, and spears; mounted troops brandished swords and lances. Their torches illuminated shocked faces: They hadn't expected such prompt opposition. Now they froze in ranks.\n\n\"You're trapped!\" Yanagisawa shouted from his position behind his troops. \"Surrender!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Instead, a defiant yell came from the rebel general, a mounted samurai clad in full armor: \"Stand and fight!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Simultaneously the archers and gunners of both armies dropped to their knees, aiming bows and arquebuses. A storm of arrows whirred across the plaza. Volleys of gunfire rocked the night. Amid gunpowder fumes and smoke, men fell dead and injured." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Conch trumpets and war drums signaled troop movements." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then a maelstrom of swinging blades and rearing horses engulfed the plaza as the troops fought. Pressing forward through the melee, Sano felt arrows clatter against his armor. A rebel samurai galloped at him, waving a sword. Sano cut his opponent across the neck." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The rebel's horse galloped away, dragging a corpse." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The glory of destruction horrified Sano, and thrilled him to the core of his samurai spirit.\n\n\"Come on!\" he shouted to Marume and Fukida. \"Let's find the emperor!\"\n\nThey fended off attackers while their mounts trampled fallen bodies." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Torches lay scattered on the ground." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'tomohito' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In their light, Sano scrutinized the rebel soldiers. He didn't see the emperor among them. He guessed that the rebels wouldn't allow Tomohito to join the battle. Tomohito represented their claim to power, and they needed to keep him safe." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He must be in the temple,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As he and his men urged their mounts up the stairs beyond the plaza, gunfire exploded behind them. Shots ricocheted off Sano's armor, jolting him. Marume's lance speared a swordsman who blocked their way, but another rebel dragged him off his mount. While they fought, a bullet struck Fukida's horse." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It screamed and tumbled down the stairs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Fukida jumped out of the saddle, but his arm caught in the reins. Sano leapt from his own mount and jerked Fukida loose. They fought the enemy past twin statues of roaring lion-dogs and up the second flight of steps, leaving dead men in their wake. Marume joined them. They raced through the gate." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The temple precinct, built on terraces hewn from a steep hill, was enveloped in a darkness relieved only by flames in stone lanterns along the paths." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The sounds of gunfire and clashing blades faded as Sano and his men sped up more steps, through an inner gate, past a pagoda." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Pausing to catch his breath, Sano saw several low buildings to his left." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "All were apparently deserted. Moving cautiously, he led his men past a tinkling fountain, through another gate. Beyond stretched a covered passageway, and ahead, the main hall.\n\nWith its vast, humped roof, it looked like a giant outgrowth of the hill." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Huge, square pillars supported lower peaked roofs above exterior corridors." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The windows were dark, but Sano pointed to a glow emanating from the south side. He and Marume and Fukida advanced stealthily through the passageway and into the hall's west corridor, toward the light. It came from brass lanterns attached to the ceiling of a wide veranda that jutted over the Kin-un-kyō Gorge. Far below, in the distance, the lights along the river and in Miyako twinkled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hearing voices from the veranda, Sano halted." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I want to fight in the battle. Why do I have to stay here?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was Emperor Tomohito, sounding petulant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Because you'll get killed if you go down there,\" said a man's stern voice. \"We're protecting you.\"\n\nThen came the sound of a scuffle, and Tomohito's outraged cry: \"Let me go! I'm the emperor. You have to obey me!\"\n\n\"If you want to live to rule Japan, you'll obey us,\" said a different voice.\n\nSano peered around the corner." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The lanterns lit the veranda like a stage." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Two samurai in leather armor tunics stood with their backs to Sano. Through the gap between them he saw Tomohito, dressed in his old-fashioned imperial armor, a long sword at his waist.\n\n\"This is the first time I've ever been outside the palace,\" Tomohito pouted, \"but I haven't seen anything except this stupid temple. You wouldn't even let me look out the window of the palanquin on the way here.\" His voice quavered tearfully." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And now I'm missing the battle that I've dreamed about for so long!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "While the emperor raged and tried to push past the soldiers, they entreated him to be quiet. Sano could tell from their worried voices that they knew the coup attempt had gone wrong. Sano whispered to his detectives. Then he circled the hall." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He stepped onto the veranda behind Tomohito." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Surrender quietly, or you will be killed immediately,\" he said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The emperor spun around, his babyish face startled beneath the ornate helmet. \"You?\" he exclaimed.\n\nThe two rebel samurai froze. When they drew their blades and started toward Sano, Marume and Fukida rushed them from behind. Then the four men were battling in a tornado of darting figures and flashing blades." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Backing away from Sano, the emperor blustered, \"What are you doing here?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I've come to take you home, Your Majesty,\" Sano said.\n\n\"I won't go.\" Tomohito puffed out his chest and stood his ground. \"Not until I've conquered the Tokugawa.\"\n\nSano pitied the boy's delusion, fostered by his isolated existence and the people who had spoiled him all his life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm sorry, but that is not your destiny,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The shogun's force is slaughtering your troops as we speak. Listen: You can hear the sound of defeat.\"\n\nDiminishing gunfire resounded across the hills; the ring of fewer steel blades echoed. Marume and Fukida had driven the emperor's guardians off the veranda, down to the path beside the hall. Yet Emperor Tomohito shook his head in angry denial." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We can't lose,\" he said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I have the divine sanction of the gods. My victory is certain.\"\n\n\"It's time for you to face reality,\" Sano said. \"The few rebels who get to the city will find more troops waiting for them, thanks to the advance notice that you couldn't resist giving. That was poor military strategy, but a good thing for you. The revolt will be crushed with minimum damage, and you can save yourself from punishment by surrendering.\"\n\n\"Surrender?\" Tomohito laughed scornfully. \"On my grave!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Grabbing the gold-inlaid hilt of his sword, he unsheathed the weapon." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano gazed in awe at the steel blade, etched with archaic designs and characters, that shone with an almost unearthly glow. This was the sacred imperial sword, passed down through generations of emperors, and taken from the palace treasure-house by this foolhardy youth. Now Tomohito sliced looping swirls in the air. He took a prancing step toward Sano." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm off to war,\" he said. His eyes, filled with nervous jubilation, reflected the blade's gleam; he grinned at Sano. \"And you shall be the first enemy I slay.\"\n\n\"Don't do this,\" Sano entreated the emperor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You can't beat me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tomohito laughed. \"I could have killed you yesterday. Now I will.\"\n\nHe swung the sword. Sano leapt backward, and the blade whistled past his chin. The emperor howled, lashing out furiously while Sano dodged." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When Tomohito sliced at his legs, Sano jumped over the blade. Cuts battered his armor tunic.\n\n\"Your Majesty, the revolt wasn't your idea,\" Sano said. He darted behind a pillar, and Tomohito's sword stuck in the wood." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Right Minister Ichijo incited it, didn't he?\"\n\nYanking the blade free of the pillar, Tomohito lunged after Sano. \"Ichijo has nothing to do with this. I want to conquer the Tokugawa. And you can't stop me!\"\n\n\"You couldn't have recruited an army or procured weapons by yourself,\" Sano countered, dodging more cuts." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Ichijo must have done it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Stop talking nonsense!\"\n\nThe emperor's blade slashed at Sano's head, driving him toward the wall of the building. Sano knew that if he fought back, he risked hurting the emperor, but refusing to stand up to Tomohito would only confirm the boy's belief that he was good enough to take on the Tokugawa army and send him to his death in the battle. Drawing his sword, Sano parried cuts." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"When Ichijo found out that Left Minister Konoe was a metsuke spy who'd discovered the plot, Ichijo killed him,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His blade clanged against Tomohito's, forcing the emperor across the veranda toward the railing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But Tomohito only laughed; his attacks grew wilder. \"If you'll implicate Ichijo, I'll persuade the shogun to pardon you.\"\n\n\"I don't care if Ichijo did kill Left Minister Konoe. I don't need him anymore. I don't need a pardon from the shogun, either. When I rule Japan, he'll be my servant!\"\n\nSano's arm ached from blocking strikes; his head reverberated with the ring of steel." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He was the far better swordsman, but a person who wants to win has an advantage over one who doesn't want to fight." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tomohito whacked Sano's left upper arm. The blade cut through the chain mail and padding of his sleeve. To his alarm, Sano felt searing pain, then the warm wetness of blood.\n\n\"Ha!\" Tomohito exclaimed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I got you! Prepare to die!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Eyes bright with glee, the emperor raised his sword in both hands. He rushed Sano, bellowing. In desperation, Sano feinted a jab at Tomohito's groin. The emperor sprang backward and lowered his weapon." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano brought his blade around, slashing at Tomohito's hands." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'across' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With a cry of pain, the emperor let go of the sword. It clattered across the veranda. Tomohito stood paralyzed, gazing with horror at his outspread right hand. A narrow cut traced a red line across the knuckles." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He looked at Sano, his face aghast." }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'never' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm bleeding.\" His voice was a ragged croak. Probably he'd never been injured before, never seen his own blood. He must have thought himself invincible.\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" Sano said, horrified at wounding the sacred sovereign." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Perhaps, though, the experience would teach Emperor Tomohito a lesson." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But this is minor compared to what will happen if you don't cooperate.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The gods shall strike you down for this,\" Tomohito whimpered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dropping to his knees, he cradled his bloody hand.\n\n\"The penalty for treason is death by decapitation.\" Sano kept his sword pointed at Tomohito, underscoring the threat. \"Even your divine status won't save you—unless you agree to denounce Right Minister Ichijo.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marume and Fukida hurried onto the veranda. \"The guards are dead,\" Marume said.\n\n\"Go back to the battlefield,\" Sano said. \"I'll handle things here.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The detectives left. Sano stood beside Tomohito." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The right minister manipulated you into believing that the plot was your idea and he was just carrying out your orders. He's a murderer who doesn't deserve your protection. Give up, Your Majesty. Save yourself and let Ichijo suffer.\"\n\nTomohito shook his head in dazed misery. \"No,\" he whispered. His complexion was a sickly white; he seemed on the verge of fainting. \"He didn't. I can't...\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Look around.\" Sano swept his sword in a high arc that encompassed the mountains above Kiyomizu Temple, the lighted city below." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Japan is bigger than you can comprehend. The Tokugawa army is hundreds of thousands strong. Any rebels who escape slaughter tonight may straggle across the country, attracting a few followers, stirring up trouble, but they'll be defeated in the end. Ichijo's ambitions far exceed his grasp.\"\n\nAs the emperor gazed at the view, he seemed to see it for the first time. A shudder passed through his body. The shadows of dying dreams darkened his eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano sheathed his sword, overcome with sorrow for the boy. Tomohito wept." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I wanted to rule Japan,\" he mourned. \"I wanted to be someone besides a useless god locked away from the world. Now I'm afraid to die.\" The knowledge of his own mortality filled his voice with terror; tears streamed down his face as he looked up at Sano. \"Right Minister Ichijo didn't mount the revolt, but if you want me to say he did, I will, if you'll spare my life.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "His insistence upon the right minister's innocence disturbed Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Finally he had the testimony needed to convict Ichijo, but what if Ichijo really wasn't the instigator of the revolt?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Did that mean he hadn't killed Left Minister Konoe or Aisu either?\n\nReluctantly, Sano entertained the possibility that the revolt and the murders were not connected, or else were connected in a way he'd never guessed. He began arranging facts into a new theory. Emperor Tomohito was the heart of the Imperial Court as well as the center of the revolt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The interests of everyone at the palace were linked to his." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Therefore, someone other than the traitor could have killed to protect Tomohito from the punishment he would suffer if Konoe reported the conspiracy, then later tried to kill Sano and halt his investigation for the same reason. If the traitor and the killer weren't the same person...\n\nA flash of enlightenment seared Sano's mind. The suspect he'd dismissed as incapable of mounting an insurrection fit this new logic as well as did the more likely culprits." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Prince Momozono was the emperor's confidant, and must also be privy to the secrets of many other people who didn't bother hiding their business from an idiot." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He could have known about the plot, and that Left Minister Konoe was a metsuke spy. Sano tallied other reasons that pointed to Momozono's guilt. Stricken by the certainty that this new theory was right, he marveled at the unexpected turn the case had taken.\n\nThen, from the east side of the hall, Sano heard hooting sounds, followed by slow, stumbling footsteps." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He recalled Ichijo saying that Prince Momozono must have run away with Emperor Tomohito." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Help me, Momo-chan!\" the emperor cried.\n\nThe killer was coming." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Keep going w/ 3 sentences more. Note: Might reference existing chars" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "From astride his horse, Chamberlain Yanagisawa surveyed the battle. Gun muzzles spewed thunder; arrows flew. Swordsmen clashed, their blades glinting in the light of fallen torches and a tree that had caught fire." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hundreds of bodies lay strewn across the plaza and the steps leading to Kiyomizu Temple; riderless horses galloped free; blood stained the ground." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa's army had suffered many casualties, but the Tokugawa forces now far outnumbered the rebels. Victory was near.\n\nYanagisawa rode back and forth along the perimeter of the battlefield. Waving his war fan, he shouted orders to the commanders, who conveyed them to the troops with conch-shell trumpet, war drums, and flags." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His throat was sore and his voice hoarse, his ears deafened by the noise." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Smoke and gunpowder fumes filled his lungs. He ached from the impact of bullets against his armor. The barbaric violence sickened him, yet he gloried in it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Battle had fully roused the samurai spirit that had awakened within him during the investigation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now his political feuds seemed like trivial substitutes for real war. When a mounted rebel soldier charged him, Yanagisawa swung his sword, slashing the man's throat. A soaring exhilaration lifted him above himself, to a rarefied plane where he could fulfill his true purpose in life: to lead his lord's army to victory, or die in the effort." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A pair of outlaw priests broke away from the combat zone. Clutching spears, tattered saffron robes flying, they sprinted down the sloping road toward the city.\n\n\"Stop them!\" Yanagisawa called." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Before his troops could respond, a figure bounded up the dark street and waylaid the rebels." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was a samurai dressed in ordinary kimono. Wielding his long sword in his right hand and his short one in his left, he fought the priests.\n\nYanagisawa watched in puzzlement." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Who had belatedly joined the defense?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then the newcomer cut down one of his opponents. As he drove the other up toward the plaza, he emerged into the light. Yanagisawa recognized familiar broad shoulders and a distinctive grace of motion. He blinked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It can't be!\" he muttered.\n\nThe samurai finished off the second priest and loped up the hill, looking around him. It was Yoriki Hoshina." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Suddenly he caught sight of Yanagisawa." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He paused, a sword in each hand, as he and Yanagisawa looked at each other." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The noisy chaos of battle faded from Yanagisawa's consciousness.\n\nThen Hoshina advanced hesitantly up the road. Brimming with wonder, hardly aware of what he was doing, Yanagisawa dismounted and walked toward Hoshina." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Had desire conjured up an apparition to haunt him?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As they came together in the shadows beside a building, Yanagisawa's legs felt unsteady.\n\n\"What are you doing here?\" he asked.\n\nHoshina stopped several paces away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "On his cheeks were bruises Yanagisawa had inflicted during their fight—he was real, not a ghost." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He said, \"I've come back.\"\n\n\"Why?\" Rage and pain erupted in Yanagisawa. \"To play me for a fool again? To kill me for humiliating you in front of your police comrades?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hoshina wordlessly shook his head while Yanagisawa brandished his sword, then dropped his weapons and spread his arms in a gesture of surrender." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Because I had to see you again,\" he said, as though it were the most obvious reason in the world.\n\nIncreasingly baffled, Yanagisawa said, \"But I condemned you to death. I could kill you now.\"\n\n\"I don't care.\" Breathing hard, glistening with sweat, Hoshina stood proudly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"To be with you makes death worthwhile.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The words filled Yanagisawa with an amazement that he hid behind scorn." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Well, if you're so eager to die, then why did you run away?\"\n\n\"It was my only hope of proving that I'm not the villain you think I am. It was the only way to convince you that all I wanted was to help you.\"\n\nHow Yanagisawa wanted to believe the yoriki!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "But he couldn't bear to be hurt again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"This is another trick,\" he said. \"You think you can escape death by worming your way into my affections again. You're too much of a coward to accept your fate and die like a samurai!\"\n\nWith a rueful smile, Hoshina said, \"If I were a coward, I wouldn't have come back. If I were still the schemer that I've been all my life, I would know better than to try a ploy that had already failed, on a man who recognized me for what I was. I want to atone for betraying your trust and prove my love for you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hoshina took another step toward Yanagisawa. \"Then I'll die gladly.\"\n\n\"You're a liar!\" Even as Yanagisawa's spirit trembled at the ardent declaration, he pointed his sword at Hoshina, keeping the length of steel between them. \"I'll kill you!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't think you will.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Instead of picking up his fallen weapons, Hoshina moved closer to Yanagisawa. From the battlefield, sporadic explosions of gunfire continued. Hoshina's steady gaze transfixed Yanagisawa; the sword trembled in Yanagisawa's hand as he backed away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You could have killed me yesterday,\" Hoshina said, \"but you didn't even draw your sword. That's why I'm willing to gamble my life now. But even if I lose the bet, at least I'll have brought you evidence to help you solve the case and made amends for betraying you to the sōsakan-sama.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What evidence? What are you talking about?\"\n\n\"When I escaped, I took cover in the underworld of Miyako,\" Hoshina said. \"I tracked down police informants and asked questions. What I learned will help your investigation.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't want to hear it!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa took another step backward, clutching the extended sword. Hoshina advanced. He dipped his hand into the cloth pouch at his waist. Fearing a hidden weapon, Yanagisawa cried, \"Stop. Don't move!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hoshina removed a small object from the pouch and offered it to Yanagisawa on his outstretched palm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you remember this?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Use 'yanagisawa' 2 times in response]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was a fern-leaf coin from Left Minister Konoe's office. Uncomprehending, Yanagisawa nodded.\n\n\"I've found out what it is,\" Hoshina said. When Yanagisawa didn't respond, anxiety sharpened his face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I understand why you're suspicious, but please, just listen to what I have to say. Then decide if you can forgive me for the harm I've done.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Instead of running away, Hoshina had stayed in Miyako to continue the investigation! He'd kept his promise to investigate the mysterious coins. Confused and shaken, fighting to maintain his resolve against Hoshina, Yanagisawa continued backing away, his sword aimed at the yoriki." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're just trying to manipulate me into pardoning you!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Despair slumped Hoshina's shoulders, and his face looked suddenly ravaged by fatigue." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If that's what you really believe, then so be it.\" Still, he kept advancing. Yanagisawa's back struck a solid wooden pillar, abruptly halting his retreat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hoshina moved closer until his throat was touching the tip of Yanagisawa's blade.\n\n\"So kill me now,\" Hoshina said, \"and I'll die satisfied with the knowledge that I did my best for the man who means more to me than my own life.\"\n\nThe sight of the sharp steel point indenting Hoshina's bare skin filled Yanagisawa with awe." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No man dedicated to self-interest would ever offer up his life this way. Yanagisawa could finally believe in Hoshina's honesty. And he saw a chance to put a tragedy behind him and atone for his own sins." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shichisaburō had died for love of him. Rather than do what was right and honorable, Yanagisawa had condemned the actor to execution. But he needn't relive the past." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He drew a deep breath. If he could find within himself the mercy to forgive, the courage to relinquish pride...\n\nHoshina's steady gaze, filled with a mixture of faith and fear, compelled Yanagisawa's decision." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The breath rushed out of him; the sword fell from his grasp." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hoshina's face lit with happiness. They exchanged a long, silent look that conveyed forgiveness and gratitude, affirmed love, and stirred desire, while jubilant shouts from the battlefield heralded the imminent Tokugawa victory.\n\nEventually, they picked up and sheathed their weapons, then stood side by side, watching the battle, uncertain what to say." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hoshina ventured, \"Now can I tell you what I learned about the coin?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes, if you like.\" Yanagisawa's heart was soaring with such happiness that he hardly cared about the clue.\n\n\"The coin was minted by a powerful Miyako gangster clan by the name of Dazai,\" Hoshina said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's interesting,\" Yanagisawa said, not wanting to admit that he already knew and let Hoshina think his effort had been wasted." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Add this exact quote somewhere appropriate: \"He told me that the gang trades in stolen goods. Usually the chief buys them outright from thieves and keeps the money he makes from reselling them. But when the merchandise is very rare or valuable, he pays after he's found the right buyer. He gives the thief one of these.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"My informant is a Dazai retainer,\" Hoshina said. \"He told me that the gang trades in stolen goods. Usually the chief buys them outright from thieves and keeps the money he makes from reselling them. But when the merchandise is very rare or valuable, he pays after he's found the right buyer. He gives the thief one of these.\" Hoshina held up the coin, explaining, \"The Dazai are former samurai. They have a sense of honor. The coin is their pledge that they'll either pay for the merchandise eventually, or return it.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The unexpected news revealed a startling new dimension to the murder case." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The coin was found with two others in Left Minister Konoe's house,\" Yanagisawa said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That means he sold things to the Dazai. Things he'd obtained illegally, that he couldn't sell on the open market.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And the fact that such coins were found among Konoe's possessions meant he'd never been paid.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Eagerness animated Hoshina's face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"So I asked my informant if the Dazai still had the merchandise. He said yes. I talked him into letting me into the warehouse where they hide stolen goods. I saw what they got from Konoe: antique kimonos, with chrysanthemum crests on the fabric. I recognized them from when I inspected the imperial storehouses.\"\n\n\"Konoe stole from the palace?\" Yanagisawa struggled to fathom the notion of the metsuke spy as a thief." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why?\" Then he shook his head. \"The Dazai wouldn't have asked; all they would care about was the money they could make by selling imperial treasure to rich collectors.\"\n\n\"But I know why,\" Hoshina said excitedly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The kimonos weren't all that Konoe had sold the Dazai. He'd been bringing them valuable artifacts for years, a little at a time. But here's the most interesting part: After selling the things, the Dazai didn't pay Konoe. Some of the gold they kept, as part of a secret deal they had with him. The rest they delivered to a priest at Lord Ibe's house, along with weapons and ammunition. Do you know what that means?\"\n\nIt meant that he and Sano had completely misunderstood a critical element of the murder case, Yanagisawa realized. \"Konoe was behind the imperial restoration attempt,\" he said, stunned by the revelation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The troops were armed with money raised by stealing palace treasure.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not through loans from the bank to which Yanagisawa had followed Jokyōden's messenger; not with payments made by Ichijo during secret meetings at the Ear Mound. \"Konoe's deal with the Dazai must have been a pact to combine forces to overthrow the Tokugawa. He got the revolt under way, and his allies carried on after his death. Merciful gods...\"\n\n\"The spy was the traitor!\" Hoshina exclaimed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Sano and I assumed that the revolt was the reason for Left Minister Konoe's murder.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Chagrin overwhelmed Yanagisawa. \"But if he was responsible for the plot, he didn't die because the killer wanted to keep him from reporting it to the bakufu.\"\n\n\"Therefore the plot had nothing to do with Konoe's death,\" Hoshina said.\n\n\"I just can't accept that!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa restlessly paced the street." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We can't ignore the facts,\" Hoshina said. \"As soon as this complication is out of the way—\" he gestured toward the battlefield \"—we can go back to the palace and find out the truth about Konoe's murder.\"\n\n\"I suppose you're right.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa slowed his steps; yet he couldn't concede defeat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He devised a fresh theory around the conspiracy, like rebuilding a house to accommodate a giant piece of furniture that won't fit. He said, \"Before, the question was, 'Who was the traitor Konoe had discovered?' But what if we turn it around and ask, 'Who knew Konoe was a traitor?'\"\n\n\"I don't see where that leads,\" Hoshina said, bewildered." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Instinct told Yanagisawa that he was heading in the right direction. \"Suppose Konoe didn't die because he had compromising knowledge about anyone. Could the murderer have killed Konoe because he—or she—knew about his treason?\"\n\n\"Anyone who knew about the conspiracy could have destroyed the left minister by simply reporting it to the bakufu,\" Hoshina pointed out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"There would have been no reason for murder.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Use 'known' 2 times in response]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa recognized other flaws in his theory. He had no proof that Right Minister Ichijo or Lady Jokyōden had known about the plot. Emperor Tomohito had known, but as part of the conspiracy, he couldn't have betrayed Konoe without getting himself in trouble." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But Yanagisawa could guess who had known... and couldn't have hoped to gain by reporting Left Minister Konoe's crime to the bakufu." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In a leap of thought and logic too rapid to express in words, Yanagisawa whispered, \"Prince Momozono is the killer!\"\n\nHoshina laughed. \"You're joking.\" Then, seeing that Yanagisawa was serious, he said, \"Why do you think so?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa suddenly saw the personal ramifications of his discovery." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He ran uphill to the plaza. There, amid trampled corpses, some hundred rebels still fought valiantly. Yanagisawa scanned the ranks of his army." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mounted troops rode down the enemy; teams of swordsmen battled each priest, gangster, and outlaw samurai." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'emperor' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa didn't see Sano, who must have gone off in search of Emperor Tomohito. Sano hadn't heard Hoshina's story; he didn't know what would happen if he tried to capture the emperor.\n\nNow Yanagisawa saw his dearest wishes hovering on the horizon like a radiant constellation: Sano gone forever; the solution to the murder case in Yanagisawa's hands, his victory over the rebels certain; a secure future in the shogun's favor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All he had to do was absolutely nothing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa inhaled the scent of blood and gunpowder as he savored his triumph... but somehow it wasn't as satisfying as he'd expected." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With astonishment, he realized that something had changed inside him. Tonight he'd experienced the Way of the Warrior. The taste of honor had diminished his appetite for the feud with Sano." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Deliberately letting one of his soldiers die seemed disgraceful behavior for a samurai general.\n\nYoriki Hoshina joined him. \"What's wrong?\"\n\nYanagisawa stared at Hoshina." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Now he understood that their reunion had also changed him, had altered his vision of the world." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'yanagisawa' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For two years Sano had been the bane of his existence; yet Sano had always acted out of duty to the shogun and dedication to his work, not out of a desire to injure Yanagisawa. Sano had saved his life, spared him punishment. And Yanagisawa had promised not to harm Sano." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Could he repay the good fortune of his happiness by dishonoring their bargain and abandoning a comrade in danger?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Looking up at Kiyomizu, Yanagisawa guessed that Sano had gone into the temple to find Emperor Tomohito." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he did, he would also find Prince Momozono." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa took a hesitant step forward. But habit prevailed; a sudden change of heart didn't negate the goals of a lifetime. Yanagisawa backtracked two steps." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Should he let fate take its course, or rush to Sano's rescue?" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Should he serve ambition and self-interest, or comradeship and honor?" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll be your writing partner for this section. I'll provide a segment, and you continue with two sentences, channeling Laura Joh Rowland in the Sano Ichiro 5 genre. Characters may have backstories from previous chapters." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Everything's g-going to be all r-right, Your Majesty.\"\n\nHead tossing, body convulsing, Prince Momozono stumbled across the temple hall veranda toward his fallen, weeping cousin." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Light from the ceiling lanterns splayed his ungainly shadow across the floor; his yelps punctuated the gunfire that boomed from the darkness down the hill." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Knotted ropes circled his left ankle and wrist, the loose ends trailing; a cloth strip hung around his neck: The rebels must have bound and gagged him to keep him quiet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano beheld the prince in amazement." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Momozono looked as pitiful as ever, but he harbored the force of kiai, and Sano recognized the potentially lethal complications introduced by Momozono's arrival." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He scented the cold breath of danger; his mind raced.\n\n\"I'm glad to see you safe, Honorable Prince,\" he improvised, anxious not to reveal that he knew Momozono was the killer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Getting the boys back to the city and Momozono into the custody of the bakufu seemed the best strategy. \"Now that you're here, I can take you and His Majesty home.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No! I can't bear for everyone to see me in disgrace!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The emperors's sobs dwindled to panicky gasps. \"I never want to go home again!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Prince Momozono lurched close to his cousin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He said, \"We're n-not g-going with you.\"\n\nThe pair looked like frightened children defying a bully." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano's heart sank. \"Neither of you has anything to fear,\" he said, thinking fast. \"Prince Momozono wasn't party to the revolt, and Your Majesty will be spared the consequences of treason.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Tomohito gazed uncertainly at Sano, betraying his need to give himself over to authority, but Momozono cried, \"D-don't believe him, Your Majesty. You must learn to beware of p-people who want to use you for th-their own purposes. Look at what happened because you trusted the l-left minister!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Confusion disconcerted Sano. Did Momozono mean the right minister? Was Ichijo behind the conspiracy after all?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The left minister was my friend,\" Tomohito protested." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I wanted to rule Japan, and he helped me. He bought weapons with the money from selling imperial treasure. He raised an army to overthrow the Tokugawa for me. Before he died, he planned the siege of Miyako.\"\n\nSano's jaw dropped. \"Do you mean that Left Minister Konoe was responsible for the revolt?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Despite his astonishment, he saw that the revelation made perfect sense." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The motives and means he'd attributed to Ichijo also fit the murder victim. Konoe, too, had been an ambitious man who'd wielded influence over the emperor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His position, like Ichijo's, had allowed him the freedom to go about recruiting troops. And Konoe, as chief court noble, would have ruled from behind the throne if he'd lived and the coup had succeeded." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But his status as a metsuke agent had blinded Sano to these facts, and important clues. The notes from Konoe's secret house must have been his plans for organizing the coup, not observations scribbled while spying on Lord Ibe's estate." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A man capable of murdering Kozeri's husband, then pursuing her for fifteen years after she repudiated him, was mad enough to attack the Tokugawa." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Now Sano recalled Ichijo saying, \"Konoe... I should have guessed,\" and understood that Ichijo had realized that Konoe was responsible for the plot. Emperor Tomohito had said he didn't need Konoe anymore, meaning that because Konoe had already launched the revolt, he was no longer necessary for its success." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano silently cursed his failure to see what now seemed obvious." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Prince Momozono bent over the emperor; while one arm flapped like a broken wing, the other clumsily embraced Tomohito's shoulders. \"It's t-time to face the facts, Your Majesty. Day after d-day I listened to the left m-minister praising your ancestors who commanded power over Japan. I w-watched his h-hired martial arts experts teach you s-swordsmanship and convince you that you were a g-great warrior. He d-didn't think I understood what he was d-doing. I heard him fill your h-head with dreams of glory until you agreed that you must lead an uprising against the b-bakufu.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It was my idea.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tomohito's face puckered with doubt. \"He was just helping me fulfill my destiny.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Prince Momozono shook his head. \"Y-you were too c-caught up in the left minister's scheme to n-notice what he m-muttered to himself every time he d-described the wonderful future when the Imperial C-court was restored to supremacy. But I heard. He s-said, 'Then she will love me. Sh-she will be forced to obey m-me as her husband and l-lord.' Your Majesty, h-he planned a revolt to get power over the w-wife who left him!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He did it for me!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tomohito insisted, drumming his heels on the veranda while tears spilled down his cheeks.\n\nThen the siege of Miyako hadn't been intended as just a drive for political power, but to satisfy an obsessive love." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The \"accomplishment\" that Konoe had mentioned to Kozeri wasn't his elevation to the post of imperial prime minister, Sano realized; the \"special occasion\" Konoe had wanted to celebrate with her wasn't a reward for turning in a traitor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Both euphemisms had referred to his takeover of Japan, which would place her and everyone else in his power. In his last letter to Kozeri, he'd alluded to the site of the revolt, which he knew because he himself had chosen it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Momozono knelt beside the emperor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I c-couldn't let the l-left minister get you in trouble. So I k-killed him.\"\n\nSano was horrified. He needed a confession, but not here, with nothing to deter Momozono from killing to protect the emperor and eliminate a bakufu official to whom he'd just admitted he was guilty of murder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You killed the left minister?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The exclamation burst from Tomohito. Then dismayed recollection came into his eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The night Konoe was murdered, you were already in the Pond Garden when I got there. After we found his body, you asked where I'd been before we met. I said, in the study hall, alone. We agreed to say we'd been there together. When that other man died, I was alone in the worship hall, and you promised to say you'd been there, too. I thought you did it for my sake. But it was you who needed an alibi!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He jumped up and began beating the prince with his fists, shouting, \"You tried to ruin my future. How dare you?\"\n\n\"I did it to s-save you! An anonymous l-letter telling what the left m-minister was doing wouldn't have b-been enough to convince the bakufu—he was too important and r-respectable. I had no choice but to k-kill him. I didn't know that the r-revolt would go ahead after h-he was gone!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Raising his unwieldy arms in self-defense, Momozono accidentally struck Tomohito's chin, further enraging him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'll kill you!\" Tomohito howled.\n\n\"Stop!\" Sano dragged Tomohito away from the prince, fearful that Momozono would turn against his cousin for failing to appreciate what he'd done." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano considered slaying the prince, whose crimes merited the death penalty, but he abhorred killing and hoped to arrest Momozono without violence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "On his knees, head tossing, Momozono cried, \"If the revolt w-were to succeed and L-left Minister Konoe seize power, h-he would have exiled me, the way he tried to years ago. Were it to f-fail, Your Majesty would have b-been executed. And what w-would have happened to m-me then?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Who cares about you?\" Tomohito demanded, trying to maneuver around Sano so he could get at the prince." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Selfishness was at the heart of every murderer's motive, Sano knew." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Momozono had acted on the emperor's behalf, but he'd also been defending his own precarious position. He, of all the suspects, had the most to gain by Konoe's death and the most to lose by either his victory or defeat in a war with the Tokugawa." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Only one question remained." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why did you kill again?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano asked the prince.\n\n\"I g-got the message that you were coming to the p-palace. I w-went to kill you so Lady Asagao would be f-freed and you wouldn't discover the c-conspiracy. On my way, I c-came upon four s-samurai, walking through the palace g-grounds. I heard them t-talking. A man with a drawling voice was p-praising the leader for framing L-lady Asagao and forcing her to confess.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Aisu and Yanagisawa and their guards, Sano thought." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I r-realized that they were r-responsible for her arrest. They w-went on talking, and it was clear th-that they wanted to w-watch me kill you, then arrest me. It was a trap!\" Momozono went into a fit of facial contortions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I h-had to do what I'd set out to do, but I couldn't let them c-catch me. So I went after them. Two of the m-men ran away. I k-killed the one with the drawling v-voice and trapped the l-leader. But then I heard you ccoming. I couldn't recover my strength quickly enough to s-scream again, so I ran away.\"\n\nA chance encounter had resulted in Aisu's death, Sano realized, and spared his own life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If he was clever enough, fortune might favor him again." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I commend your loyalty to His Majesty, and I understand what a terrible ordeal you've been through,\" Sano said gently, while he sought a way to persuade Momozono to surrender himself and the emperor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What kind of favorable terms could he offer a confessed murderer? \"Let's go back to the palace where you can rest, and—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With an effort that ripped a yell from him, the prince stood. Distress clouded the twitching muscles of his face as he said to Sano, \"You treated me with m-more respect than anyone else ever has. For that I offer you my humble th-thanks. But I c-can't let you take His M-Majesty, so I must kill you, too.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Wait,\" Sano said, though fearfully aware that his luck had failed him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He appealed to the emperor, who stood staring at Momozono in panting fury." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Your cousin is dangerous. We have to go. Please come with me.\"\n\n\"No!\" Tomohito lunged at Momozono again." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When Sano caught him and tried to lead him away, he tore free, cursing.\n\nHysterical frenzy besieged Momozono." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His shrieks echoed across the hills. His face contorted, while his arms and legs flailed in a bizarre dance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then he threw back his head and clenched his jaws." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The frenzy waned, leaving Momozono eerily silent and still. His manic energy, now harnessed, emanated from him in a pale aura that absorbed the sounds of battle and distant gongs." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "An ominous, familiar tension tingled the air around Sano. Its soundless vibration pulsed through him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sudden lassitude weakened him. He reached for the long sword at his waist, but his arm moved sluggishly, as if he were dragging it through water." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His spirit recoiled from the ghostly, sinister touch of Momozono's will." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Realization startled him. Contrary to popular wisdom, the power of kiai wasn't always the product of rigorous martial arts training. In Momozono's case, it was a symptom of his mysterious affliction." }, { "from": "human", "value": "An accident of fate had made him an outcast and granted him the ultimate deadly weapon." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He must have practiced his skill on those birds found dead in the palace gardens.\n\n\"What are you doing, Momo-chan?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "the emperor asked. A queasy expression came over his face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's scaring me. What's that noise? Where's that light coming from? I order you to stop!\"\n\n\"My apologies, Your Majesty.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Prince Momozono had shed his stammer along with his tics; his voice was clear, steady, and full of regret. \"There's no other way. He knows I killed two men. He knows you were a willing participant in the rebellion. He has to die.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano's fingers, grown thick and clumsy, fumbled his sword from its scabbard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The weapon seemed a hundred times heavier than usual, and Sano's hand too weak to bear the weight." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The sword fell. The debilitating force radiating from Momozono dropped Sano to his knees; his fear turned to terror; his wish to serve justice gave way to the need to save his life.\n\n\"There's no reason to kill me,\" he choked out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Left Minister Konoe was a traitor. By killing him, you demonstrated loyalty to the Tokugawa regime. The shogun will spare you the death sentence, maybe even pardon you altogether.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Momozono shook his head sadly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Anyone with a power like mine would never be allowed to live. But I don't really care if I die. It's His Majesty I must protect. I can't let you capture him and execute him as a traitor.\"\n\n\"The emperor isn't responsible for the plot,\" Sano hastened to say." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Keeping Momozono talking would prevent him from gathering the breath he would need for a spirit cry." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The bakufu will make allowances for his age and Left Minister Konoe's influence over him. They won't want a scandal, or a breach with the Imperial Court. If His Majesty repents, he won't be punished.\"\n\n\"Yes, I repent,\" cried Emperor Tomohito." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'll never be bad again. Just stop, Momo-chan!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Backing away from his cousin, he stumbled, fell, then crawled between pillars toward the door of the temple hall. \"Help! Somebody, please!\"\n\nAs hot waves of panic coursed through him, and his heart pounded with accelerating thuds, Sano recalled a classic ritual practiced by ancient samurai in wartime: kugi goshin-ho, annihilating the forces of evil by evoking the nine magic ideographs." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He closed his hands, then released the index fingers, pressing the tips together near his breast." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Rin! Rin! Rin!\" he chanted." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "To his relief, he felt a slight relaxing of the tension. The heat in his blood began to subside; his heartbeat slowed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm not stupid enough to think His Majesty will be forgiven,\" Momozono said bitterly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If I claim that Left Minister Konoe was to blame for the revolt, who will believe me? That's why I killed him. Can you picture me telling the bakufu that he was planning a coup?\" The aura around Momozono brightened; the energy pulsed with quickening intensity." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'd have been mocked and dismissed.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But I believe you. I'll convince my superiors.\" Assailed by Momozono's invisible force, Sano fell back on his heels." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With a huge effort, he brought his fingertips together, gasping, \"Sha! Sha! Sha!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even though the physical relief was minimal, renewed courage flared in him.\n\n\"I can see that you're sincere,\" Momozono said, \"but if you think your support of my word will save His Majesty, you're more of an idiot than I am.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In desperation, Sano argued, \"Have you thought about what will happen if you kill me? Without me to persuade the bakufu that His Majesty is innocent, he'll be condemned for treason. My detectives will come when they hear your scream. They'll find my corpse, and they'll catch you. You can't buy your freedom, or the emperor's, with my death.\"\n\nMomozono's expression disdained this scenario." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"His Majesty will tell the bakufu that the outlaws abducted us from the palace and brought us here. You attacked His Majesty because you thought he was a traitor. I defended him the only way I could. It won't matter that everyone knows I'm a murderer.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "With wordless eloquence, Momozono gestured toward the dark, open space beyond the railing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Below the tall beams that supported the veranda, the cliff dropped off precipitously." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "No one could survive such a fall. \"I'll be dead before the police can arrest me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As his heart pumped currents of panic through him, Sano chanted, \"Jin! Jin!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he tried to form the ideograph, his fingers wouldn't intertwine and fold." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Please,\" he whispered, \"have mercy!\" His spine gave way, and he crumpled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Momozono's will constricted his lungs; his heart seemed ready to explode." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His ears reverberated; he could barely hear Tomohito shouting, \"No, Momo-chan, no!\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Get out of the way, Your Majesty,\" ordered the prince.\n\nFaint scuttling noises impinged on Sano's last vestiges of consciousness as the emperor crawled away. \"Help!\" Sano called." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His voice was a dying whisper trapped in his throat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Marume, Fukida, and the Tokugawa troops were far away at the battlefield. Momozono loomed over Sano and began breathing loudly, first in hisses, then wheezes, then huge gulps." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano felt the last of his strength fade away. The power of kiai paralyzed him." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He couldn't manage the slightest flinch of muscle or fragment of speech." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Momozono's voracious breaths stopped. He stood immobile, staring at Sano." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Currents of energy swirled within the blackness of his eyes. The force radiating from him grew until the night thrummed and the whole cosmos seemed on the brink of shattering." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then Momozono's mouth opened, stretching so wide that all his teeth showed around the gaping dark hole of his throat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Helpless, Sano watched Momozono inhale a huge breath. As Sano's thoughts dissolved in a turmoil of pain and terror, he fought desperately to remain lucid." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Way of the Warrior decreed that a samurai must face death with dignified courage, and Sano couldn't die without a final prayer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Reiko! I love you! My spirit will watch over you until we are reunited in the netherworld!" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The inhalation swelled Momozono's thin chest as he prepared to release the full force of his power." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With stoic tranquility, Sano resigned himself to the inevitable." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But instead of a deafening scream, Momozono emitted a grunt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The tension in the air snapped like a burst bubble; the vibration ceased. Alarm replaced the wild ferocity in Momozono's eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He staggered forward a step." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then his expression went blank, and he crashed facedown on the veranda. On his back, a red stain spread from a slit in his kimono." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Over his lifeless body stood Sano's savior: Chamberlain Yanagisawa." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yanagisawa bent at the waist, breathing as hard as if he'd run all the way from the battlefield. The blade of the sword in his hand dripped Prince Momozono's blood." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sano was overwhelmed with gratitude and relief." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yanagisawa's complexion was deathly pale between the livid bruises; his body shook with tremors induced by what must have been a fierce struggle to approach and slay the man with the power of kiai." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But his face wore a brilliant, sardonic smile.\n\n\"You once called me a back stabber,\" he said to Sano. \"Aren't you glad I lived up to my reputation?\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Continue with the same vibes as Laura Joh Rowland. Story might have ongoing characters/plots - work with what's given" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The day before Sano left Miyako, he and Chamberlain Yanagisawa bid official farewell to the Imperial Court. Obon had ended, and a fresh wind had swept away the bonfire smoke. Clouds diffused the sun's glare and cast shifting shadows upon the courtyard outside the Purple Dragon Hall. Nobles lined the yard, kneeling still while drums beat a slow, ritual cadence. On this morning two days after the Tokugawa army had quelled the revolt, the Imperial Palace basked in serenity. To Sano, walking behind Yanagisawa as guards, palace functionaries, and Shoshidai Matsudaira escorted them across the courtyard, the scene had the quality of an ancient painting: eternal, untouched by the hand of fortune. Yet Sano knew better.\n\nThe procession mounted the steps to the hall, whose raised doors revealed the imperial throne room. Inside, Emperor Tomohito sat in his canopied pavilion. Sano and Yanagisawa knelt on the veranda opposite him, with their escorts flanking them." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They bowed in solemn reverence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shoshidai Matsudaira said, \"The honorable chamberlain and sōsakan-sama have come to take their leave of the Imperial Court.\" His voice trembled; he looked ill. Yanagisawa had reprimanded him for allowing a conspiracy to foment right under his nose. Soon he would be demoted and another Tokugawa relative put in charge of Miyako.\n\nFrom his place below the emperor's throne, Right Minister Ichijo addressed Yanagisawa and Sano: \"We thank you for coming and solving the difficult problems of our capital.\"\n\nBeneath his courteous manner Sano detected a combination of relief at seeing them go, and suppressed elation. Rumor said that Ichijo's promotion to the rank of prime minister would soon be announced. He'd achieved his lifelong goal.\n\n\"We thank you for your cooperation,\" said Yanagisawa, \"and regret that we must depart so soon.\"\n\nSano offered his own thanks and regrets, but he guessed that their polite speeches fooled no one.\n\n\"I grant you my blessing for a safe journey back to Edo,\" said Emperor Tomohito." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "All the arrogance had deserted him; his chastened expression lent him a new maturity. Sano predicted a long, peaceful reign for the young sovereign, who had finally learned his place in the world.\n\nWhile priests chanted an invocation, Sano perceived a vacancy in the palace; there was a quietude formerly broken by hoots, yelps, and frenetic motion. The air seemed charged with the absence of Prince Momozono. Yesterday Sano had issued orders for the prince's cremation and burial. Perhaps his spirit would find peace at last.\n\nThe ceremony drew to a close, and Sano pondered the most dramatic effect wrought by the murder case: the change in Chamberlain Yanagisawa. Yanagisawa had offered no explanation for saving Sano's life, but Sano hadn't needed one. The chamberlain had brought Yoriki Hoshina with him when he'd rescued Sano. While Yanagisawa had described the discovery that had sped him to the temple, joy had lit his face as if he'd swallowed the sun." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The investigation had made a detective out of him; the battle had turned him into a samurai." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Love had redeemed his spirit.\n\nNow the procession exited the courtyard. As Sano and Yanagisawa walked through the narrow streets of the kuge district for the last time, Right Minister Ichijo joined them.\n\n\"A private word, if I may?\" Ichijo said.\n\nSano and Yanagisawa dropped behind their entourage and walked with the right minister. Ichijo said, \"We all know that your investigation is not quite complete.\"\n\n\"True,\" said Yanagisawa.\n\n\"I will explain what you saw when you followed me to the Ear Mound,\" said Ichijo, \"if you will keep the information confidential.\"\n\nYanagisawa raised an eyebrow at Sano, who smiled. Some things never changed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ichijo was still a consummate politician. Loath to tarry in Miyako, Yanagisawa and Sano had agreed that they would return to Edo, leaving Detective Fukida behind to tie up loose ends. But perhaps Fukida needn't worry about this one.\n\n\"Very well,\" Yanagisawa said.\n\n\"I have a secret mistress and daughter in the village of Kusatsu,\" Ichijo said quietly. \"I visit them whenever I can. I also send them money through intermediaries. That's what I was doing at the Ear Mound. I hired those two rōnin to protect my family from bandit raids and convey cash to them.\"\n\nSano said, \"That's not illegal. Why the need for secrecy?\"\n\n\"The woman is a peasant,\" Ichijo said. \"For a man in my position, an affair outside the noble class is unseemly. It would have damaged my career. I was passing through the Pond Garden on my way to Kusatsu when Left Minister Konoe was murdered. I didn't want to be caught at the scene, so I continued on my trip.\" He added, \"Konoe knew my secret. He was blackmailing me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The procession reached the palace gate." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thank you for the information,\" Sano said, glad to have a mystery solved.\n\n\"If you will kindly excuse me, I have business to attend to,\" Ichijo said, bowing.\n\n\"As have I.\" A bemused expression, tinged with worry, came over Yanagisawa's face.\n\n\"And I,\" Sano said, as foreboding stirred in him." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mode: Collab writing\nContext: May reference existing characters/world\nAmount: 11 sentences\nVoice: Laura Joh Rowland" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At the Palace of the Abdicated Emperor, Reiko sat on a veranda with Lady Jokyōden. They gazed at the sunlit park, where courtiers and noblewomen strolled. Wind chimes tinkled; dragonflies hovered over fragrant flowers.\n\n\"Everything looks the same,\" Reiko said. \"It's as if nothing had happened to disturb the peace of this world.\"\n\n\"I must devote more effort to preserving that peace,\" Jokyōden said, \"and more attention to His Majesty the Emperor.\"\n\nThis was the only reference they made to the revolt. Reiko contemplated Jokyōden's hint that she would keep her son under stricter control. Men dominated politics and waged wars, but a woman working behind the scenes could accomplish much. Reiko doubted if the emperor would dare defy his mother and misbehave again, and the Tokugawa regime was indebted to Jokyōden.\n\n\"Many thanks for your help,\" Reiko said, bowing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With dignified grace, Jokyōden also bowed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I am honored to have been of service.\"\n\n\"I wonder—\" Reiko paused, eager to satisfy curiosity, yet hesitant about broaching a personal question. \"May I ask why you decided to help me, when your interests opposed mine?\"\n\n\"I saw myself in you,\" Jokyōden said with a wry smile. \"Besides that, another woman aided me many times during my life. She is beyond my assistance, so I repaid her favor by helping you.\" As if to herself, Jokyōden murmured, \"May that deed compensate for those less virtuous.\"\n\nA chill passed over Reiko. By now she'd read the metsuke dossiers that Chamberlain Yanagisawa had sent Sano. She'd learned of Jokyōden's rivalry with another court lady whose fatal fall over a cliff might not have been accidental. Even if Jokyōden hadn't murdered Left Minister Konoe or Aisu, even if she didn't have the power of kiai, she was still dangerous.\n\nLady Jokyōden gave Reiko a faint smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As though aware of Reiko's thoughts all along, she said, \"Women are generally considered helpless, yet under the right circumstances, we are capable of great harm as well as good.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Reiko realized with an unpleasant shock that she herself was a dangerous woman." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As the wife of the shogun's sōsakan-sama, she had more power than ordinary women, and she'd played a role in incriminating the innocent Lady Asagao. Would she, too, someday have sins to regret?\n\nThere was another reason for this visit besides bidding good-bye to her friend: Sano had asked her to solve a minor puzzle in the case. Knowing that Jokyōden would see through any subterfuge she tried, Reiko said bluntly, \"I'd like to know what is your connection with the Daikoku Bank.\"\n\nJokyōden looked surprised, then recovered her composure and nodded. \"I trusted your discretion once, and you did not fail me, so I shall tell you. As you may know, the imperial family has financial problems. I sold my valuable kimonos and used the money to establish the Daikoku Bank. Through my agents, I issue loans and speculate on commodities. The profits supplement the court's income.\"\n\n\"Astonishing,\" Reiko murmured. Surely Jokyōden was history's first noblewoman banker.\n\n\"I made the mistake of telling Left Minister Konoe,\" said Jokyōden. \"He demanded a share of my profits in exchange for not revealing that I had crossed the boundaries of womanly behavior and trespassed on the purview of the merchant class.\"\n\n\"I'm sure that if I tell my husband about your business, he'll agree to ignore it because you're doing no harm and you led us to the conspiracy,\" Reiko said.\n\n\"I would much appreciate his generosity,\" said Jokyōden." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing buddy needed! six sentences more in Laura Joh Rowland's voice. Sano Ichiro 5 genre. this is from a bigger story btw" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At Nijō Castle, troops and servants prepared for the trip to Edo, packing clothes and supplies, readying the horses. Chamberlain Yanagisawa paced the veranda of the private chamber. He inhaled on his tobacco pipe, hoping the smoke would calm his nerves. Hearing footsteps behind him, he stopped, turned, and saw Yoriki Hoshina standing at the far end of the veranda.\n\n\"You sent for me.\" The hesitancy in Hoshina's voice made it almost a question." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes...\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Slowly they walked toward each other and stood at the railing, looking out at the stark, treeless garden. \"So you're leaving tomorrow,\" Hoshina said.\n\nYanagisawa nodded. His spirit and body came alive with the exhilaration that Hoshina's presence inspired. After leading the victorious army back to Miyako and returning Emperor Tomohito to the palace, they'd spent much time celebrating their reunion with violent, physical passion. Yet so much had happened that neither had dared mention the future.\n\n\"There's something I want to talk about,\" Yanagisawa said, at the same moment Hoshina said, \"I suppose this is our last day together.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "An uncomfortable silence ensued." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then, with a sense of leaping off a cliff, Yanagisawa spoke in a voice barely above a whisper: \"It doesn't have to be.\"\n\n\"What did you say?\" Hope battled disbelief in Hoshina's face.\n\nNow Yanagisawa's voice came out clear and strong: \"I want you to come to Edo with me.\"\n\nThat Hoshina also wanted it was apparent in his shining eyes and trembling mouth, but he didn't speak.\n\n\"I'll make you my new chief retainer,\" Yanagisawa said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You would do that? After I betrayed you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Incredulity strained Hoshina's voice.\n\n\"After you proved your loyalty, yes, I would.\" Yanagisawa spoke with full knowledge of the danger of fostering a potential rival.\n\n\"If you'd proposed this a few days ago, I would have jumped at the chance. But now...\" Hoshina smiled wryly. \"Instead of planning my brilliant future, I'm thinking about how having me around could hurt you. I served you well this time. But later... what if I turn out to be the same man who once meant to take advantage of your generosity? How can you trust me?\"\n\n\"Perhaps I'm still the same man who condemned you to death for disappointing me,\" Yanagisawa said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If you trust me, I'll trust you.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They exchanged a long, questioning gaze. Then, with somber smiles, they nodded.\n\n\"You'd better settle your business in Miyako and start packing,\" Yanagisawa said. \"We leave at daybreak.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing buddy needed! six sentences more in Laura Joh Rowland's voice. Sano Ichiro 5 genre. this is from a bigger story btw" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sano rode through Miyako, down streets now bare of the stalls that had sold Obon supplies, past houses no longer decorated with lanterns or incense burners. The city teemed with gay, bright life, and along the Kamo River, only piles of ash remained from the Festival of the Dead, but as Sano reached Kodai Temple, his mind was uneasy. Reiko had willingly agreed that he should pay a last courtesy visit to Kozeri, and knowing what he now did about the nun, he thought he could resist her... but he wasn't quite certain.\n\nWind stirred the pines that rose above the temple walls; clouds obscured the sun. Walking along stone paths, through tranquil gardens, Sano hoped to conclude his business with Kozeri in a businesslike manner, as Reiko trusted him to do.\n\nIn the courtyard waited a palanquin and four bearers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Down the steps of the nunnery came a woman dressed in a blue cotton kimono; she carried a cloth bundle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "With a white drape covering her shaved head, Sano almost didn't recognize Kozeri.\n\nShe spied him, and her steps faltered. Eyes downcast, she walked to the palanquin, where Sano joined her.\n\n\"Where are you going?\" he asked.\n\nKozeri gave him a shy glance from beneath lowered lids. \"I'm leaving the nunnery.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why?\" Even as Sano spoke, he guessed the answer: He had diverted Kozeri from her spiritual calling. Preoccupied with his own troubles, he hadn't thought about how their encounters might have affected her. Guilt stabbed him. \"I'm terribly sorry,\" he said.\n\nA fleeting smile crossed Kozeri's averted face. \"It's not your fault,\" she said. \"Meeting you only forced me to admit what I've known all along: I'm not suited to be a nun. Now that the left minister is gone, there's no reason to stay here.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She raised her head and looked directly at Sano. Desire flared between them even though he'd braced himself against her. He realized that sometimes an attraction arises between a man and woman regardless of their wishes, even without magic spells. He also knew he had better leave before he succumbed.\n\nHe said hurriedly, \"The reason I came is to apologize for any trouble my investigation has caused you.\"\n\n\"Oh, that's all right,\" Kozeri murmured." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I shouldn't have deceived you. Please forgive me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her meekness irritated Sano. He discovered that he didn't really like Kozeri. Cloaked in passive martyrdom, she inspired not his admiration or respect, but his pity. She'd never breached the part of his spirit where his love for Reiko dwelled. While castigating himself for his weakness, he'd overlooked the fact that he had withstood temptation, and he could again. But what of Kozeri, at whose expense he'd learned his lesson?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Where will you go?\" Sano asked her." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"For now, I'll live in my family's summer villa. We agreed on that when I visited them a few days ago and told them I wanted to leave the nunnery. Perhaps someday a new marriage can be arranged for me.\"\n\nIn her eyes Sano read Kozeri's hope for a good husband to love, a child to replace the one she'd lost. Now she opened the door of the palanquin and stowed her bundle inside.\n\n\"Goodbye, sōsakan-sama,\" Kozeri said. \"I wish you well.\"\n\n\"And I the same to you,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With mutual relief, they smiled and bowed." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then they departed Kodai Temple, she in the palanquin and he on horseback, traveling in opposite directions." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Keep going w/ 3 sentences more. Note: Might reference existing chars" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The sun rose crimson over the misty hills above Miyako. While the imperial capital still slumbered, a procession of foot soldiers, mounted samurai, servants, and a single palanquin filed out the city gates, heading east along the Tōkaidō highway between lush green fields. The rhythm of hoofbeats and marching feet mingled with the waking cries of birds." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Humid heat steamed from the earth, yet a hint of coolness in the air presaged autumn." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Riding beside Sano, Detective Marume said, \"That was some adventure, but I will be truly glad to get back to Edo.\"\n\nDetective Fukida recited:\n\n\"My native city—longing recalls" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The winding streets, the castle on the hill.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Chamberlain Yanagisawa dropped back from his place near the head of the procession to ride alongside Sano. \"Shall we congratulate ourselves on a job well done, sōsakan-sama?\"\n\n\"You deserve much of the credit,\" Sano said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's true,\" Yanagisawa said complacently." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"May I look forward to a continuation of our partnership when we reach home?\" Sano asked.\n\nThe chamberlain favored him with a long, unreadable gaze that boded an uncertain future. Who could tell how long their truce might last?" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yoriki Hoshina joined Yanagisawa." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Looking at them, Sano felt a qualm of unease. Where he'd previously had one enemy, would he now have two?\n\nYanagisawa's faint smile said he knew exactly what Sano was thinking. Then he and Hoshina rode ahead, leaving Sano to wonder." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Cooperative storytelling\nContext: May include established characters/lore without introduction\nMy role: Provide a brief opening\nYour role: Expand upon my opening with 10 sentences, emulating the writing style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "system", "value": "🎯 Target word: 'garden' | Required occurrences: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo strolled through the narrow yard, hands folded and face cast down in meditation. His shoulders bent against the predawn chill. The first two weeks of May had been warm in Kyoto, but this morning the switch to his summer kimono seemed just a bit premature.\n\nAt the other end of the garden a shadow snaked over the wall and into a cherry tree with no more sound than a spring wind rustling leaves.\n\nThe priest walked on, unaware.\n\nHe passed the koi pond without a glance. It was still too dark to watch the fish. At the back wall of the garden the Jesuit crossed himself and knelt before a statue of a man nailed to a cross. The priest's knees sank into the dampened ground as he bowed his head in earnest prayer.\n\nThe shadow moved farther up the tree." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rain-slicked leaves and slippery bark made climbing treacherous, but the shinobi did not falter. His hands and feet found purchase where none existed for other men.\n\nA branch grew over the path between the koi pond and the house. The assassin stretched his body along the limb. He moved out over the path without dislodging a single leaf.\n\nAnd there he waited.\n\nMinutes passed. The eastern sky purpled with dawn's approach. A fish jumped in the pond, and a delicate splash resonated through the yard.\n\nThe priest's lips moved without a sound.\n\nThe shinobi's black eyes glittered in the depths of his hood." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As the sky turned pale Father Mateo concluded his morning prayers. He stood up and brushed stray leaves from his brown kimono, then frowned at the damp patches over his knees. When the moisture did not rub away he shrugged to himself, nodded to the statue, and turned back toward the wooden house that served as his home and church.\n\nThe shinobi's breathing slowed until even his dark blue tunic ceased to move.\n\nFather Mateo passed the pond without stopping. As he stepped beneath the tree, the assassin dropped to the path with no more sound than a breaking twig and laid a slender hand on the Jesuit's shoulder.\n\nFather Mateo spun with a startled cry. The shinobi's hands flew up in defense as the priest's face tensed and then relaxed in recognition.\n\n\"Hiro!\" Father Mateo exclaimed. \"How many times must I tell you not to do that?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dark eyes sparkled within the shinobi's cowl. \"I will stop on the day that I fail to surprise you.\"\n\nThe Jesuit frowned. \"Have you been out all night again?\"\n\nHiro pulled down the cloth that covered his mouth and pushed his hood back onto his shoulders. \"I don't answer that sort of question, remember?\"\n\nHe reached into the pouch that hung at his side. \"I brought you something.\"\n\n\"Other than heart failure?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\nHiro raised an eyebrow in amusement and pulled out a small, dark object. It squirmed.\n\n\"An presenta,\" he said in Portuguese." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Um presente,\" Father Mateo corrected." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro's Portuguese was startlingly good, considering that the shinobi had studied the language for barely eighteen months. The priest's Japanese had far more flaws, despite two years of study before his arrival and eighteen months of living in Kyoto.\n\n\"Presente,\" Hiro repeated.\n\nThe present struggled and mewed.\n\nFather Mateo stepped back. \"That's a cat!\"\n\n\"A small one,\" Hiro agreed. He switched to Japanese. \"Since you talk to the fish, I thought you would like it.\"\n\nThe priest switched languages, following Hiro's lead. \"Where did you find a cat?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Work this phrase into your response organically: \"I can't touch it, but it can stay. It's your cat now, if you want it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Abandoned by the canal. It's not a lucky color, but you claim you don't believe in luck.\"\n\n\"God controls my fortune,\" Father Mateo confirmed, \"but lucky or no, I can't keep a kitten. Cats make me sneeze.\"\n\nHiro considered the squirming ball of fur. \"What should I do? I don't want it to die.\"\n\n\"Have you become a Buddhist overnight?\" Father Mateo grinned at his own joke.\n\n\"You know better than that.\" Hiro frowned at the kitten. \"It needs a home.\"\n\n\"I can't touch it, but it can stay. It's your cat now, if you want it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The kitten spun in Hiro's grip and clawed at his arm. He clutched it to his chest to stop its struggling.\n\nThe kitten gave a muffled mew.\n\n\"You're squeezing it,\" Father Mateo said.\n\n\"It's stabbing me,\" Hiro retorted. \"I'd say we're even.\"\n\nThe kitten began to purr. It retracted its claws and relaxed in Hiro's hands. He looked down at the tiny bundle of marbled black and orange fur. A white patch gleamed at the kitten's throat, and the tiny cat squinted at him through greenish yellow eyes." }, { "from": "system", "value": "/set_word_count: house, frequency: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Loud banging echoed through the air. It came from the front of the house.\n\n\"Open up!\" a male voice yelled. \"I need the foreign priest!\"\n\n\"Who did you insult this time?\" Hiro arched an eyebrow at the priest.\n\nFather Mateo started for the house. \"No one I remember, not intentionally anyway.\"\n\nOnly a handful of foreigners had the shogun's permission to live and work in the Japanese capital. Many samurai found even that limited presence offensive." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"At least they're not Shogun Ashikaga's men, or the emperor's.\" Hiro followed the priest to the wooden veranda that circled the perimeter of the house.\n\nThe men slipped out of their sandals and stepped up onto the smooth, unpainted wood.\n\n\"How do you know that?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\nHiro followed the priest inside. \"The emperor and the shogun do not knock.\"\n\nThe room that served as Father Mateo's bedroom and study had a built-in writing alcove instead of a desk and no Western furniture at all. Only the crucifix mounted in the tokonoma, the decorative alcove that normally showcased pieces of Japanese art, hinted at the room's foreign occupant. Although the Jesuit mission had purchased the house from a Japanese family two years before, in the spring of 1563, Father Mateo lived as a Japanese and had permitted little change.\n\nFather Mateo crossed the floor, slid open the door, and stepped into the central room beyond." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The open room at the center of the house had a sunken hearth and tatami mats on the floor, and it served every purpose from parlor to family room and even church." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo turned right, toward the small entry chamber at the front of the house, and ran a hand through his dark brown hair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He turned to look for Hiro." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The shinobi had disappeared into his own room, which shared a wall with the priest's. Hiro couldn't let anyone see him in assassin's clothing. Moreover, a messenger would think it strange to find the household alert and about so early.\n\nFather Mateo started to run his hand through his hair again, but caught himself and stopped. He faced the swinging door at the front of the house and called, \"Who's there?\"\n\nHis Portuguese accent often made people pause, but this time a male voice answered at once. \"Mateo Ávila de Santos? You are wanted at the Sakura Teahouse.\"\n\nFather Mateo opened the door. \"So early?\"\n\nThe visitor wore a simple kimono belted at the waist with a wide obi. A dagger hung at his hip but he carried no sword." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His close-cropped hair was thinning on top, a situation made even more obvious by the fact that his head barely reached the Jesuit's chest.\n\nThe messenger startled at the sight of the foreign priest but recovered more quickly than most. \"There has been a murder. A man is dead.\"\n\n\"Was the victim one of my students?\" Father Mateo avoided the term \"converts\" in the company of strangers.\n\n\"No. The murderer asked for you.\"\n\n\"The murderer?\"\n\nThe messenger nodded. \"Sayuri, an entertainer.\"\n\nFather Mateo stepped backward and shook his head. \"That's impossible. Sayuri would never kill anyone.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She did, and a samurai at that. You'd better come quickly if you want to see her.\"\n\n\"Is she going to commit suicide?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\n\"You'd better come quickly,\" the messenger repeated. \"She hasn't got much time.\"\n\nHiro emerged from his room wearing a smoke-colored silk kimono and a pair of swords. The short wakizashi hung down from his obi, while the longer katana stuck upward through the sash with its black-lacquered bamboo scabbard jutting several feet behind his back. Somehow, the shinobi had also found time to retie his long hair in a samurai's oiled topknot. Not a strand was out of place.\n\nThe messenger's eyes went wide at the sight of a samurai. He dropped to the ground and laid his forehead in the dirt." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Get up,\" Hiro said as he reached the doorway." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Where is the Sakura Teahouse?\"\n\nThe messenger stood and bowed from the waist. \"Honorable sir, it lies on this side of the Kamo River, on Shijō Road, east of Pontocho. It's the third house east of the bridge. You will know it by the stone dogs in the yard.\"\n\nHiro scowled. \"I will bring the priest. You may go.\"\n\nThe messenger bowed twice more and hurried away.\n\n\"We could have gone with him,\" Father Mateo protested as Hiro shut the swinging door.\n\n\"Samurai do not follow commoners.\" Hiro looked the priest up and down. \"More importantly, that's your old kimono and you need to put on your swords.\"\n\n\"You know I don't like to wear them, and we need to hurry.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why did I train you to use them if you won't wear them?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro shook his head at the priest's stubbornness." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 11 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Nevermind. As you say, we should hurry. Change and get your swords.\"\n\n\"Why are the swords so important?\"\n\n\"Two years in Japan, and you still have to ask?\"\n\nThe priest crossed his arms over his chest.\n\nHiro pointed at the swinging door. \"You saw the way he reacted when I appeared. Only samurai have the right to wear two swords and to order men to obey. The shogun's edict granted you the rank of a samurai, and today you must use it. If this woman is in trouble, you will need your swords to save her.\"\n\n\"We have yours,\" the priest pointed out.\n\n\"Mine are paid to protect you,\" Hiro said. \"My clan and I owe nothing to a girl we do not know.\"\n\nAnd have every reason to let her die if doing so saves your life, he thought.\n\nBut he didn't say that part aloud." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Write three sentences sentences in the style of Susan Spann spawning from what the user wrote. Note: Characters and worldbuilding may appear mid-story." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro and Father Mateo left the house and walked west along the narrow earthen road that led to the Kamo River. The priest stood three inches taller than his Japanese protector, but the status he gained by his six-foot height was destroyed by his katana. The longsword wagged behind him like the tail of an overexcited dog." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro shook his head and fought a smile. \"That would stop if you practiced wearing the swords, you know.\"\n\n\"Yes. Just like the last ten times you told me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo smiled to remove the comment's sting." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After half a mile they passed the white torii gate at the public entrance to Okazaki Shrine, which marked and guarded Kyoto's eastern border. A white-robed Shinto priestess sold amulets by the gate. She nodded respectfully to Father Mateo." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Shinto acknowledged a multitude of divinities." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The priestess considered the Christian god no threat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo returned the silent greeting. He saw the woman often on the road, and, though he disagreed with her theology, he bore her no ill will.\n\nAt the river Hiro and Father Mateo turned south along the unpaved road that followed the eastern bank." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Cherry trees lined the way." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A month before, their blossoms fell like snow, but Hiro preferred May's leaves to April's flowers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They made better camouflage.\n\nA bridge spanned the river at Sanjō Road. Had they crossed, the street would have led them to Pontocho, a twisting alley connecting Sanjō Road with Shijō Road to the south." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Teahouses and brothels crowded the narrow thoroughfare, barely leaving space for three people to walk abreast." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro glanced at the bridge and the city beyond." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He hated Pontocho. Tight spaces didn't bother him, but large concentrations of dishonest women did.\n\nEast of the river, Sanjō Road was residential. Well-groomed gardens and trees surrounded the dwellings." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As the messenger promised, stone dogs stood guard at the third house on the left, a two-story structure with a raised foundation and a steeply peaked roof. Long eaves overhung the wide veranda that circled the house, and a gravel path led to gates at both sides of the building. Wooden fences shielded the yards beyond from public view." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Crowded Pontocho had no room for private gardens. Then again, the average teahouse patron wasn't paying to see a landscape.\n\nFather Mateo walked to the door and knocked with a familiar confidence that made Hiro wonder how much time his pious friend spent in teahouses." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The door swung open to reveal a woman in a formal kimono embroidered with dark purple blossoms." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her hair and makeup looked flawless despite the early hour, and though her thinning face suggested age, no lines or wrinkles marred her powdered features.\n\nShe inclined her head to the priest.\n\nFather Mateo bowed. \"Good morning, Madame Mayuri. Sayuri sent for me?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The similarity in the names suggested mother and daughter or master and apprentice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro guessed the latter. He could hardly imagine a less maternal figure than the tall woman standing in the doorway.\n\nMayuri's gaze shifted to Hiro as if drawn by his thoughts." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He bowed just enough to show manners but not quite enough for respect. \"I am Matsui Hiro, Father Mateo's translator and scribe.\"\n\nThe assumed surname fell naturally from his lips." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He had used it so long that it almost felt like his own.\n\n\"I have not seen you here before,\" Mayuri said.\n\nIt was neither a question nor an accusation, and also both." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"His previous visits concerned only his religion,\" Hiro replied, \"but this time he may encounter words he does not understand.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mayuri nodded but did not bow. Hiro decided to overlook the slight. Teahouse women stood outside the social structure, and though they usually indulged male guests to the point of obsequiousness, this was not a normal morning and, strictly speaking, Hiro was not a guest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Mayuri owns the Sakura Teahouse,\" Father Mateo said.\n\nHiro didn't need the explanation. Successful entertainers often bought or inherited houses when they retired, and although she was now too old to sing and dance for men's amusement, Mayuri would have won hearts and emptied pockets in younger days." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She stepped back from the door. \"Come in.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The cedar floor of the entry gleamed like honey beneath her sock-clad feet. Hiro pitied the servant tasked with keeping it clean. He stepped out of his geta and onto the raised floor, but paused to let Father Mateo enter first." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro always reinforced the impression that Father Mateo deserved great deference and respect, while Hiro himself was merely a low-ranked scribe.\n\nA shinobi's first and greatest defense was misdirection.\n\nSix tatami covered the entry floor." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Most entries measured no more than four mats, and the extra space conveyed a sense of luxury and light. A decorative screen by the eastern wall showed merchants and samurai cavorting with courtly ladies.\n\nHiro inhaled the scent of expensive cedar mixed with something faint and sweet that reminded him of distant flowers in bloom." }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'mayuri' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ahead and to the right, an open doorway led to the central foyer, but before Mayuri could lead them through Father Mateo asked, \"Has there really been a murder?\"\n\nMayuri raised her painted eyebrows at his directness.\n\nHiro pretended not to notice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Jesuit tried to behave like a Japanese, but his Western nature showed through under stress." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At least he hadn't run his hand through his hair yet.\n\nMayuri kept silent long enough to indicate her disapproval. \"A samurai is dead.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Surely Sayuri didn't kill him,\" Father Mateo said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mayuri's lack of reply said more than enough.\n\n\"I don't believe it,\" the priest insisted. \"May I see her?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mayuri inclined her head in consent. \"Follow me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She led them into the square, twelve-mat foyer. Sliding doors on the eastern and western walls led to private rooms, three on either side, where the teahouse women entertained their guests. Unlike prostitutes, who needed only space for a futon, true entertainers required room to sing and dance as well as a hearth for serving meals and tea." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Another door, in the northern wall, stood open to the informal room beyond, where the women gathered for meals and conversation or to wait for guests to arrive. Hiro averted his eyes. Polite people did not stare into private spaces and he had already seen enough to know the room held no imminent threat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mayuri knelt on the floor before the second sliding door on the western side.\n\nAs she arranged her kimono around her knees Father Mateo whispered, \"Why is she kneeling?\"\n\n\"No proper entertainer opens an interior door while standing,\" Hiro murmured." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Didn't Sayuri do the same?\"\n\n\"I told her Christians kneel only to God.\"\n\nBefore Hiro could reply Mayuri looked up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Sayuri will explain what you see, but be warned. You may find the scene... disturbing.\"\n\n\"You haven't cleaned it up?\" An edge of frustration clipped Father Mateo's words." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro made a mental note to refresh the priest's memory of etiquette." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Dead samurai didn't mind insults and accusations, but the living often felt differently.\n\nMayuri sat up straighter and raised her chin. \"Akechi-sama's family has the right to see what happened.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her powdered face betrayed no emotion, but the words told Hiro more than she realized. Teahouse owners protected their performers like samurai guarded their honor. Mayuri's refusal to clear the scene meant she thought the girl was guilty." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mayuri fixed her eyes on the men. She clasped her hands, but not before Hiro saw them shaking.\n\n\"Why are you waiting?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We have seen death before,\" the Jesuit added." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Not like this,\" she said, and drew back the door." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's work on this story segment. I'll provide a part, and you'll continue with six sentences in the style of Susan Spann. This is mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre and characters might appear without introduction." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The scent of copper wafted from the room.\n\nFather Mateo froze in the doorway. Hiro stopped short behind him, barely avoiding a collision. As he looked over the priest's shoulder, he was grateful for the samurai tradition that forbade emotional responses to tragedy.\n\nBecause Hiro had seen death like this before.\n\nThe north wall of the room was spotted and streaked with blood." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Circular droplets spattered the tokonoma and streaked the wall on both sides of the decorative alcove." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A crescent-shaped pool of drying blood soaked the tatami in front of the tokonoma, and a wavering bloody trail connected the pool to a dead samurai lying faceup on a thin mattress beside the central hearth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was naked except for a blood-drenched loincloth clinging to his hips.\n\nThe Jesuit stepped through the door and Hiro followed. The coppery scent grew stronger, with undertones of salt. Hiro inhaled carefully but detected no smell of sweat. The dead man had not put up a very long fight.\n\nRusty droplets spattered the dead man's legs from thigh to knee." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'short' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Multiple jagged slash marks gouged his ruined throat. They seemed to start on the right-hand side, about where neck met shoulder, and ended just short of the samurai's left ear.\n\nThree vertical stab wounds marked the dead man's chest, like punctures from short, thin daggers. A metallic glimmer in the center wound suggested a broken blade, but Hiro couldn't see it well enough to judge the type. He fought the urge to step closer. Most Japanese considered death defiling, and though Hiro didn't hold with superstition he wouldn't risk his cover to satisfy his curiosity." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He looked for the samurai's clothes. A neatly folded blue kimono and obi lay on the floor before the alcove, just below the blood-spattered vase of hydrangeas that sat on the tokonoma shelf. The bloody drops that marked the clothing suggested it was folded before the attack.\n\nHiro's eyes were drawn to the vase. Hydrangeas symbolized love and heartfelt feelings. He wondered if the samurai lived long enough to see his feelings spattered on the wall." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The amount of blood and the vicious wounds suggested his death came quickly and by surprise.\n\nA tiny girl, perhaps sixteen years old, knelt to the right of the tokonoma. Her long-fingered hands rested in the lap of her bloodstained kimono and her face tilted downward toward the floor. Her posture suggested patience but her shallow breathing betrayed her hidden fear.\n\nFather Mateo knelt before the girl. She looked up, and her smooth lips trembled as she raised her hands to hide her mouth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Tradition allowed her more emotion than a man, but not by much.\n\nSkin-colored tear trails lined her powdered cheeks and dark shadows hollowed her midnight eyes, but Hiro had rarely seen a more beautiful girl. In fact, he knew only one, and he usually tried not to think of her at all.\n\n\"Father Mateo.\" Sayuri regained control and lowered her hands. \"I'm so glad you came. I worried you might refuse. I didn't do it. It wasn't me.\"\n\n\"Of course not,\" Father Mateo said. \"What happened?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mayuri remained kneeling in the open door, so Hiro stood by the entrance." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He never turned his back on potential threats, and at that moment everyone was a threat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Akechi-san came to the teahouse as usual.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "/insert_quote: \"The brothels are in Pontocho.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sayuri nodded at the corpse, but kept her eyes on Father Mateo. \"I entertained him several nights a week—just singing and dinner and talk, nothing you said was forbidden.\"\n\n\"This is a high-class house.\" Mayuri sniffed. \"The brothels are in Pontocho.\"\n\nHiro gave the woman a sideways look. The priest would interpret her words as defense of Sayuri, but Hiro heard only concern for the reputation of the house." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I haven't come to condemn you,\" Father Mateo said, and Hiro knew he meant it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Jesuit's capacity for trust and forgiveness never ceased to impress his shinobi guardian." }, { "from": "human", "value": "On occasion, Hiro also found it irritating." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Akechi-san stayed very late,\" Sayuri continued. \"Most of the guests had gone home. I was tired and wanted to go to bed, but he wouldn't leave. I said I needed to visit the latrine but he didn't take the hint, so I went to Mayuri and asked her to intervene.\"\n\nShe looked to the doorway. Mayuri nodded.\n\n\"Then I went to the latrine,\" Sayuri said. \"When I returned, Akechi-san said he wanted to spend the night. He was too drunk to ride home. I sang to him and he fell asleep." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I must have been a little drunk myself, because I fell asleep shortly afterward." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"When I woke up he was dead.\"\n\nSayuri's lips quivered. A single tear rolled down her cheek. Her right hand rose to wipe it away and then returned to her lap.\n\nHiro thought it a perfect performance—too perfect for the truth.\n\n\"It's not your fault,\" Father Mateo said.\n\n\"It must have been a shinobi,\" Mayuri offered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I was in my room all night, and I heard nothing.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Shinobi,\" Father Mateo repeated. \"That's the same as ninja, isn't it?\"\n\nMayuri looked down her nose at the priest. After a very long moment she said, \"Yes, though only a Chinese would pronounce the word that way.\"\n\nHiro's gaze returned to the corpse. The samurai's oiled pigtail had come loose from its leather band." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Strands of graying hair hung around his face and trailed on the floor.\n\nHiro shook his head. Not even a dead samurai deserved the shame of ruined hair. Then he noticed something worse. The killer had gouged out the corpse's eyes. The empty sockets were crusted with drying blood." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro had seen many corpses, but that was a first.\n\nHe looked over the corpse very carefully. Once again he noticed the glimmer of polished metal in the dead man's chest. This time he decided to look more closely.\n\nHe faked a cough and raised a hand to his stomach. \"I am sorry. May I get some air?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mayuri frowned as Hiro started across the room toward the sliding veranda door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Don't touch anything,\" she snapped." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't want the scene disturbed.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro wondered if she was lying or just didn't realize that the body had been moved." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As he passed the corpse he eyed the cuts in the samurai's chest. Drying blood obscured the wounds, but the parallel slits seemed identical in diameter and almost but not quite equidistant, like slashes from a tiger's claws. A fragment of metal glinted in the center wound. As Hiro suspected, the killer's blade had broken.\n\nHe saw no more before he reached the door, pushed it open, and stepped outside. Long thatched eaves extended over the porch, supported by round pillars at ten-foot intervals along the veranda's edge." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Beyond the porch lay a narrow yard punctuated with cherry trees." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Beneath them, flowers bloomed in ornamental gardens. Granite lanterns and a black stone Buddha stood between the flower beds. Bright green moss covered the Buddha's rounded belly.\n\nAside from a scattering of leaves on the grass, most likely dislodged by the previous night's brief but violent storm, Hiro saw no sign of disturbance in the garden. No footprints marked the grass and the only broken flowers were bent down by the force of rain. No bloody footprints stained the veranda, either." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro hadn't expected any. The prints in the room stopped at the door, with the last ones positioned roughly side by side. Whoever made them had stopped to put on shoes, or at least remove bloody socks. The trail ended there.\n\nTo the right, a small rectangular building protruded beyond the end of the teahouse. Hiro stepped to the edge of the porch and peered around the eaves." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The outlying building had a thatched roof and an open door on the narrow end." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lanterns hanging outside the entrance and slatted windows near the roof suggested a latrine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A pair of ancient cherry trees stood between the latrine and the garden wall that separated the Sakura from the house next door. The larger tree stood almost thirty feet high, with the smaller one only three or four feet shorter. They reached over the wall toward the neighboring house like giant thieves determined to pick the neighbors' pockets.\n\nHiro returned to the open doorway and looked back into the room. Mayuri had disappeared and the interior door was closed. Father Mateo knelt beside Sayuri." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Their heads were bowed in prayer." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As Hiro stepped across the threshold, shouting echoed through the walls. It came from the front of the teahouse—angry, demanding, and male.\n\nHiro hurried to place himself between the priest and the inner door. Unless he missed his guess, the dead man's relative had arrived." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Literary Collaboration:\n- Sentences: 12 sentences\n- Match character context\n- Genre: mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The door slid open. A young samurai stormed into the room with his hand on the hilt of his katana. He took two steps toward the hearth and froze in shock.\n\nThe stranger stood half a head shorter than Hiro, with a shaved forehead and long black hair pulled back in a samurai knot. He looked very young, no more than nineteen, and slender, with a narrow face and a thin mustache that looked more like a shadow on his lip. He wore baggy hakama trousers and a wide-shouldered surcoat of bright patterned silk, and he swaggered more than appropriate for his age.\n\nHis clothes and attitude suggested a dōshin, or local policeman, come to investigate a disturbance.\n\nHiro wondered who had called him. Although all policemen were samurai, only commoners needed the help of magistrates and police. Samurai families enforced the law themselves.\n\nThe stranger's nose reddened. The flush spread all the way to his half-shaved scalp." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His pigtail quivered and his hand trembled on his sword. His eyes remained locked on the corpse.\n\n\"What happened here?\" he gasped.\n\nMayuri had not stood up after opening the door. She bowed her head to the floor at once, and when she pushed herself to a kneeling position she looked very small and vulnerable. Fear thawed her icy exterior like boiling tea on snow.\n\n\"I apologize a thousand times, Akechi-sama,\" she said, using the highest honorific to show respect. \"We did not... we hoped you would see... an assassin is to blame.\"\n\nThe samurai whirled and pointed at Mayuri. \"He was murdered in your teahouse. You are to blame.\" He turned to the dead man and dropped to his knees. \"Find something to cover my father.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro's mind buzzed a warning. Membership in the Kyoto police was generally inherited, with positions passed from retiring father to son. A dead samurai meant trouble for Sayuri. Dead policemen were trouble for everyone, especially with an arrogant dōshin son.\n\nHe wished he and Father Mateo had arrived later, or not at all.\n\nMayuri bowed to the floor again, but not before Hiro saw the terror in her eyes.\n\nSayuri stood and lifted the dead man's kimono.\n\nThe dōshin whipped his head around and snapped, \"What do you think you're doing?\"\n\nSayuri froze, eyes wide. The silk kimono unfolded in her hands and slipped toward the floor. She clutched it to her chest to keep it from falling.\n\nThe young man's eyes brimmed with unshed tears but his fists were clenched at his sides." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How dare you defile his kimono with bloody hands!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The kimono was already ruined, but Hiro suspected the dead man's son wasn't thinking very clearly. With good reason." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro held out his hand for the garment. \"I'll do it.\"\n\nThe young samurai blinked and his eyebrows rose in surprise. They lurched downward again as he noticed the foreign priest. He jumped to his feet. He stood barely as tall as Sayuri but his rage made him seem much taller.\n\n\"Who are you?\" he demanded. \"What are you doing here?\"\n\nHiro bowed. \"I am Matsui Hiro, interpreter and scribe. This is Father Mateo Ávila de Santos, a priest of the foreign religion, from Portugal.\"\n\nThe young man's face turned purple. He rounded on Mayuri. \"How dare you allow a foreign ghost in this room!\" He shifted his glare to Hiro and his hand returned to the hilt of his katana." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Remove him at once, before I remove his head.\"\n\nHiro admired the way the youth channeled his grief into anger, but recognized the threat of a violent outburst. Keeping himself between the samurai and the priest, Hiro retrieved the kimono from Sayuri and spread it over the body. He took care not to touch the corpse.\n\nWhen he finished, he said, \"The priest is under shogunate protection. Ashikaga Yoshiteru personally invited him to live and work in Kyoto.\"\n\n\"That gives him no right to defile my father's body.\"\n\n\"The presence of a priest does not defile the dead,\" Hiro said. \"He has not touched your father. He came to comfort this woman, who shares his faith.\"\n\nHiro switched to Portuguese. \"We should leave.\"\n\n\"What did you say?\" the samurai demanded. \"Speak Japanese!\"\n\n\"Father Mateo does not speak our language well.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro hoped the priest would play along." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I told him that you wanted him to leave.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The young man narrowed his eyes at Hiro." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His hand remained on the hilt of his sword, and he trembled like a wild boar preparing to attack." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Adrenaline rushed through Hiro's limbs, though he kept his hands at his sides." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He didn't want to kill a policeman if he could avoid it.\n\nFather Mateo seemed unaware of the danger. \"I'm not leaving,\" he said in Portuguese. He nodded at Sayuri. \"She needs our help.\"\n\nHiro turned his head just enough to catch the Jesuit's eye. \"We need to go now, immediately.\"\n\n\"I'm taking Sayuri with me.\" Father Mateo beckoned to the girl and started for the door.\n\nThe gesture needed no translation.\n\n\"Stay where you are!\" the young man barked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri froze, mouth open and eyes wide." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo drew a breath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At the last moment he seemed to remember that he didn't know Japanese well." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He closed his mouth and said nothing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"She claims she didn't kill your father,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"There is no reason for her to stay.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Please, Nobuhide.\" Fresh tears appeared in Sayuri's eyes and her knuckles whitened as she gripped her hands together. \"Don't kill me.\"\n\nNobuhide ignored her. \"This is the woman my father spent his evenings with. Her kimono is stained with his blood, and I see only a woman's footprints on the floor.\"\n\nHe pointed at the trail of tiny prints that led from the silk-draped body to the door. Hiro agreed that they looked feminine, but wasn't as quick to make damning assumptions based on circumstance.\n\nThen again, it wasn't his father lying by the hearth.\n\nSayuri knelt and bowed her head to the floor.\n\n\"It wasn't me,\" she whispered. \"When I woke up he was just as he is now.\"\n\nThe samurai looked at the wall and the bloody floor as if trying to reconstruct the crime. \"I see footprints in here but none on the porch. How did a killer enter without notice and vanish without a trace?\" He drew his katana.\n\nHiro's muscles tensed as the blade hissed against its scabbard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Only years of training kept his hands and body still.\n\n\"I have the right to avenge my father's death,\" Nobuhide declared, \"first as his son and second as the yoriki in charge of Pontocho.\"\n\nHiro drew a sharp breath. Yoriki were police commanders and assistant magistrates, with as many as thirty dōshin at their command.\n\n\"Please, no,\" Sayuri begged.\n\nMayuri watched from the doorway, as mute as the stone dogs that guarded her teahouse.\n\n\"Wait,\" Father Mateo said.\n\nNobuhide turned. \"You said he didn't speak Japanese.\"\n\nHiro's hand moved toward his katana, but he resisted the urge to draw it. Thus far Nobuhide had only threatened Sayuri, and Hiro still preferred not to kill a grieving man. Not with witnesses, anyway.\n\nHe took a step toward Nobuhide." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I said he did not speak our language well. I never said he could not understand it.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The young samurai held his katana at waist level with his left hand almost touching the guard and his right at the base of the hilt. Hiro recognized the fighting stance. He also knew that resheathing swords without shedding blood caused samurai shame and loss of face, and that policemen didn't take embarrassment well.\n\nHe had to diffuse the situation at once or someone would die.\n\n\"We have to do something,\" Father Mateo said in Portuguese.\n\n\"It is the law,\" Hiro replied. \"He has the right to avenge his father.\"\n\n\"She didn't kill his father,\" the priest protested. \"Her death accomplishes no justice.\"\n\n\"Speak Japanese,\" Nobuhide growled, raising his sword to emphasize the threat.\n\nFather Mateo stepped between Sayuri and the samurai with a confidence that suggested either ignorance or foolishness. Nobuhide's eyes widened and he lowered his sword a fraction." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The priest told Hiro, \"Translate,\" then bowed to Nobuhide and continued in Portuguese. \"Honorable sir, I respect your customs and your law, but this woman is under the protection of the church, which is itself protected by the shogunate." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Shogun Ashikaga granted my predecessor, Francis Xavier, permission to reside in Kyoto and teach our religion to all who wish to accept it. This woman has recognized Jesus Christ as her Lord and savior. She is governed by God's justice as well as by Japanese law.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The Jesuit's right hand twitched." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Incorporate 'translated' into your response exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "For a moment Hiro thought he would raise it, but the priest resisted the nervous gesture. Hiro noted the restraint with satisfaction. He had often warned Father Mateo about the importance of control to samurai.\n\nHiro translated the words as politely as possible and watched Nobuhide's reaction. The shinobi wouldn't kill without provocation, but he would act without hesitation to save the priest.\n\nNobuhide sneered. \"She is a murderer. She has no rights under any law.\"\n\n\"A Christian must have the right to prove her innocence,\" the priest persisted, still in Portuguese. \"The law of the church requires it.\"\n\nHiro suspected the Jesuit was bluffing but translated anyway.\n\n\"I've never heard of such a thing,\" Nobuhide said, \"and samurai are not bound by your Christian laws.\"\n\n\"But Sayuri is,\" Father Mateo countered, \"as you are bound by the Bushido code, which requires a samurai to temper justice with benevolence.\"\n\nWhen Nobuhide heard the translation, he stepped back in surprise and lowered the tip of his sword by several inches." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He scowled at Hiro. \"He didn't really say that. You made it up to help him.\"\n\n\"Father Mateo is a student of Bushido as well as of Christ,\" Hiro said, glad that the priest's quick mind had appealed to samurai honor and not just religious law.\n\n\"How can she prove her innocence?\" Nobuhide demanded. \"She is clearly guilty.\"\n\n\"She must have two days to prove otherwise,\" Father Mateo insisted, \"the amount of time our Lord spent in the tomb before He proved His divinity by rising from the grave. This is a central tenet of our faith. Surely you would not deny Sayuri a final religious expression?\"\n\nAs Hiro finished the translation he added, \"You can kill her just as easily two days from now.\"\n\n\"She will run away.\" Nobuhide glared at Sayuri.\n\nThe girl remained kneeling with her forehead on the floor.\n\n\"She won't run,\" Hiro said. \"If you're concerned, post dōshin outside the teahouse.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He didn't care what happened to Sayuri, but convincing Nobuhide would enable the Jesuit to leave with his head on his shoulders." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How will I run my business with policemen at the doors?\" Mayuri sounded horrified." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 13 sentences." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'priest' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's a trick,\" Nobuhide said. \"The priest will smuggle her out in the night.\"\n\n\"I give you my word he will not.\" Hiro had no intention of ever returning to the Sakura. \"Give the girl two days, under guard. If she cannot prove herself innocent, execute her. Men will remember your dedication to justice.\"\n\nAs Nobuhide considered the suggestion, Hiro could see Bushido honor struggling with vengeance in the young man's thoughts.\n\n\"Very well.\" Nobuhide took a hand off his sword and pointed at Father Mateo. \"But I hold him equally responsible.\"\n\nThe priest bowed. \"I give you my word that Sayuri will not escape.\"\n\n\"Not for that,\" Nobuhide said. \"My men will secure the teahouse. I hold you responsible for my father's death. If you prove Sayuri's innocence by noon two days from now, I will execute the killer and set her free.\n\n\"But if you fail, I will kill you both.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's engage in a collaborative writing exercise. I'll provide a starting point (which may include pre-existing characters and lore), and You'll continue with 11 sentences in the style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Have you lost your mind?\" Hiro barely restrained himself until he and Father Mateo reached the street. \"What were you thinking?\"\n\n\"He won't kill me,\" the priest replied. \"I'm under the shogun's protection.\"\n\n\"You forfeited special status when you offered to help the girl. How do you know her anyway? I've never seen her before.\"\n\n\"I met her a month ago, in Pontocho.\"\n\nHiro stopped short. \"What were you doing in Pontocho? I thought you didn't like women.\"\n\n\"There are other reasons for taking a vow of chastity,\" Father Mateo said.\n\nHiro raised an eyebrow. \"Not in Japan.\"\n\n\"If you must know, I went to Pontocho for the cherry blossom dances. I missed them last year and heard they were something to see. Sayuri danced her formal debut this year. She is a talented entertainer.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And she talked to you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro could hardly believe it. Most entertainers only had time for paying clients.\n\n\"You don't have to look so surprised. But as it happens, I didn't talk with Sayuri at the dances. I ran into her on the street a few days later. She was going to have her hair styled, and I walked her there and back. Since then, we've met for tea several times. She became a Christian only a week ago.\"\n\n\"How convenient,\" Hiro said, \"just in time for you to defend her.\"\n\n\"She didn't do this,\" the Jesuit said. \"She wouldn't lie.\"\n\n\"All women lie,\" Hiro retorted, \"and she's not even good at it. That samurai was awake when someone killed him, and she couldn't have slept through it.\"\n\n\"How do you know that?\"\n\n\"The blood on the walls all sprayed in the same direction, the one he was facing when someone cut his throat.\"\n\nThey had reached the Kamo River, but instead of turning homeward Hiro started across the bridge.\n\n\"Where are you going?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\n\"Yoriki answer to the magistrate.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro paused and waited for the Jesuit to follow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"As Nobuhide's superior, the magistrate can absolve you of liability. I'm going to see him and explain you have no part in this.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'father' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But I do have a part in it.\" Father Mateo caught up and fell into step. \"I'm going to help Sayuri prove her innocence.\"\n\n\"What? You hardly know her!\"\n\n\"She is a member of my flock and my sister in Christ. Would you let your sister be wrongfully executed?\"\n\nHiro looked away at the mention of sisters. That topic ranked high on the list of things the shinobi did not discuss, even with friends.\n\nWhen Hiro did not answer Father Mateo added, \"I cannot sit by and watch someone put an innocent woman to death.\"\n\n\"You can and you will, even if she is innocent, which I doubt. I swore an oath to keep you safe, and I don't intend to fail.\"\n\n\"I'm trying to save a woman's life and you're worried about your salary?\"\n\n\"Salary?\" Hiro made a sound, more bark than laugh." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If you die, it means my head.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Shogun Ashikaga would understand that I acted on my conscience. I'll write a letter saying you were not to blame.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You overestimate samurai understanding,\" Hiro said. \"The Iga ryu sent me here, not the shogun, and Iga does not forgive failure.\"\n\n\"The shogun will make them.\"\n\n\"The shogun controls Kyoto,\" Hiro said, \"but his reach does not extend to Iga Province. Even if it did, shinobi clans do not answer to warlords, including the shogun.\"\n\n\"Then you'll have to convince the magistrate some other way,\" Father Mateo said. \"I'm helping Sayuri no matter what the cost.\"\n\nTwo samurai boys were sparring at the far end of the bridge. The crack of their wooden swords echoed off the buildings that lined the bank. The older boy stood half a head taller, but the younger one showed more skill. He ducked beneath his opponent's blade and brought his wooden bokken down on the tall boy's skull with a thump that rang across the water.\n\n\"AI!\" The younger boy yelled in victory." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He raised his sword and stepped back, ending the fight." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The older boy bent double and rubbed his head. Hiro winced in sympathy. He remembered the ache of bokken strikes, despite the many years since he felt a blow.\n\nThe priest shook his head. \"That's got to hurt.\"\n\n\"Better hurt than dead,\" Hiro replied.\n\n\"Why has the older one got a forelock?\" Father Mateo asked. \"I thought samurai shaved their heads at sixteen. He looks older than that.\"\n\n\"It varies,\" Hiro said. \"A boy shaves his forehead after genpuku, when he receives his sword and also his adult name. Every father decides when his son is ready.\"\n\nThe boys gaped at the foreigner, mouths wide like gasping fish." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo ignored their familiar surprise, but Hiro scowled and laid his hand on the hilt of his katana." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The boys bowed low and returned to their sparring. Hiro smiled to himself. A man didn't have to draw his sword to use it.\n\nThe men continued up Sanjō Road. Hiro glanced down Pontocho as they passed. The alley looked dark and silent in the morning light. Teahouses and brothels woke at sunset and slept at dawn.\n\nA couple of blocks farther on they turned north and passed the walled police compound at the entrance to the administrative ward. The guards at the gate nudged one another and whispered at the sight of the Jesuit priest.\n\nHiro also heard the word \"ronin,\" followed by snickering laughter. He was used to men mistaking him for a masterless samurai, or ronin, who served the foreign ghost because he had no other option." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Most men would have found the disdain offensive, but Hiro considered it useful and slightly amusing." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The magistrate's compound lay a short distance past the police. Two samurai in leather armor guarded the gates, and a small crowd of merchants and laborers had already gathered at the entrance to the compound. Their expressions ranged from concern to nervousness. Most were men, but here and there a woman waited in her husband's shadow.\n\nNo one spoke.\n\nA sweaty smell rose from the crowd. Normally people bathed enough to avoid offensive odors, but a visit to the magistrate inspired fear, even when men thought their causes just.\n\nThe crowd stared as the foreigner approached. A child pointed but his mother hushed him before he made a sound. The guards decided the order in which people pled their cases, and no one wanted to make a scene that might drop them back in the line.\n\nHiro put on a swagger as he approached the guards." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The man on the right would not meet his eye, so he spoke to the one on the left." }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must use the word 'murder' exactly 2 times in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We wish to see the magistrate.\"\n\n\"The magistrate is sleeping,\" the guard said. \"Come back later and wait your turn.\"\n\n\"The matter cannot wait,\" Hiro said. \"It concerns a yoriki's murder.\"\n\nThe guard blinked and stood straighter. \"Murder? What happened?\"\n\nHiro glanced at the crowd of merchants. \"It is a delicate matter. Perhaps the magistrate would prefer to discuss it in private.\"\n\nComprehension dawned on the guard's round face. He nodded slowly. \"Yes, he may want to speak with you before the official hearing.\"\n\nThe guard disappeared into the compound." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His companion glanced at Hiro and looked away, trying not to stare at the foreigner." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Instead he glared at the commoners, who shuffled a little farther away from the gate." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Discomfort flowed through the social strata like water running down a hill.\n\nA few minutes later the guard returned. \"Magistrate Ishimaki will see you at once. Follow me.\"\n\nHiro and Father Mateo followed the guard across the graveled court toward the wooden building that dominated the yard. Wide-spreading eaves overhung the weathered veranda. Slatted covers barred the windows, allowing the passage of air but forbidding light, and a pair of dark stone lanterns flanked the doorway like tusks beside a gaping mouth.\n\nThe guard led them through the entrance and into a wood-paneled room with a pit of white sand at the center. Behind the pit sat a wooden desk on an elevated platform. Even seated, the magistrate would look down on everyone in the room. Charcoal braziers and oil lamps provided a flickering light that dispelled the darkness but filled the room with a gentle haze of smoke.\n\n\"What's the sand for?\" Father Mateo whispered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The guard had left, but the dark, low-ceilinged room inspired respect." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It represents justice and purity,\" Hiro said. \"The accused kneels there while awaiting the magistrate's judgment. Don't stand in it.\"\n\n\"Won't we have to?\"\n\n\"We're here as informants, not supplicants.\"\n\nA door to their left slid back with a soft rustle as the magistrate entered the room. His black kimono blended with the shadows, but his hair and forehead glowed pale in the dim light. For a moment he looked like a ghostly head floating through the room.\n\nHis shape took on definition as he climbed the stairs to his desk. Once seated, he looked at the visitors. His snowy eyebrows raised at the foreign priest, though not enough for real surprise. The guard must have warned him about the Portuguese." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro bowed. Father Mateo followed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I am Matsui Hiro,\" Hiro said, \"translator and scribe for Father Mateo Ávila de Santos of Portugal. Thank you for meeting with us in private.\"\n\nThe magistrate nodded slowly. \"A yoriki has been murdered? May I ask his name?\"\n\n\"Akechi.\" Hiro paused, suddenly aware that he didn't know the dead man's given name.\n\n\"Nobuhide?\" The magistrate's expression did not change. \"A pity, though murder is not unheard of in Pontocho. May I ask the circumstances of his death and why a foreigner is involved?\"\n\n\"Not Nobuhide,\" Hiro said. \"His father. Akechi-san was killed last night in a teahouse across the river from Pontocho.\"\n\nThe magistrate leaned forward and placed his hands on the desk. \"Akechi Hideyoshi was not a yoriki. He was a general, retired from the shogun's army.\" His forehead wrinkled with concern." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You say he was murdered? In a teahouse?\"\n\nHiro suddenly wished they had not come. This wasn't turning out as he expected.\n\n\"How is the foreigner involved?\" the magistrate asked.\n\n\"He is not involved,\" Hiro said. \"He is merely the spiritual counselor of the accused, an entertainer named Sayuri.\"\n\n\"Of the Sakura Teahouse?\"\n\nHiro struggled to hide his surprise. \"You know her?\"\n\nThe magistrate nodded. His white pigtail bobbed gently atop his head. \"I am familiar with the house, though not personally acquainted with the girl. The priest is her counselor, you say?\"\n\n\"Yes, she has accepted the foreign god.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "There was no harm in speaking. The damage was done. \"She sent for him this morning after the crime. Nobuhide arrived a few minutes after we did. He wanted to execute the girl at once, but Father Mateo intervened.\"\n\nThe magistrate raised his eyebrows in surprise and looked intently at the priest. \"Why would he do that?\"\n\n\"His religion grants the accused an opportunity to exonerate herself. As an adherent, Sayuri has this right. In addition, the followers of the foreign god treat one another as siblings. Father Mateo considers Sayuri his sister, and on that basis he asked Nobuhide to give her a chance to prove her innocence.\"\n\n\"Really?\" The magistrate leaned forward. \"Fascinating. I would like to hear more. Does he speak Japanese?\"\n\n\"A little,\" Hiro said. \"Not well.\"\n\nThe magistrate leaned back again. \"A pity. I would have liked to discuss this law with him in depth.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He folded his hands on his desk." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I take it Nobuhide did not appreciate the finer points of foreign religious laws.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Work this phrase into your response organically: \"He granted the request, but intends to hold Father Mateo responsible if Sayuri cannot prove her innocence. He threatened to execute them both in two days' time.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Not exactly,\" Hiro agreed. The magistrate's joke suggested a possible ally. \"He granted the request, but intends to hold Father Mateo responsible if Sayuri cannot prove her innocence. He threatened to execute them both in two days' time.\"\n\nThe magistrate raised a hand and rubbed his chin. \"Most unfortunate indeed. I assume you came to ask me to intervene.\"\n\nHiro nodded.\n\n\"I'm afraid there is nothing I can do. Had the murder occurred within Pontocho, I could order Nobuhide not to touch the foreign priest, but the Sakura Teahouse lies outside his jurisdiction. His authority there stems from his status as Hideyoshi's son. I cannot control his actions in that capacity, and, as you know, the law permits a samurai to avenge his father's death.\"\n\n\"I also know that the death of a foreign priest could complicate the shogun's relations with the Portuguese,\" Hiro said.\n\nThe magistrate nodded. \"I will speak with Nobuhide and see what I can do.\"\n\n\"You can do nothing.\"\n\nHiro spun around with his hand on his sword, chastising himself for letting down his guard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nobuhide stood by the supplicants' entrance, face and forehead red with ill-contained rage." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He bowed perfunctorily to the magistrate.\n\n\"I have the legal right to avenge my father.\" Nobuhide pointed at Father Mateo. \"This man inserted himself into a private matter. He chose to assist the woman. For all I know, he helped her commit the crime.\"\n\n\"Ridiculous,\" Hiro snorted. \"He was at home all night. I was there.\"\n\n\"He could have helped her plan, or given her the weapon,\" Nobuhide said. \"Doesn't the other Portuguese sell firearms?\"\n\n\"Enough!\" The magistrate thumped his hands on his desk.\n\nHe looked at each man in turn. His hand crept back to his chin, and he rubbed it as he thought his way through the problem. The gesture suggested uncertainty, but when the magistrate spoke his voice conveyed both confidence and regret." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If you cannot prove the girl innocent within the allotted time, I cannot stop Nobuhide from taking vengeance.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 8 sentences." }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'their' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He shifted his gaze to the young samurai. \"But I can require you to cooperate with their investigation. You may not interfere with their efforts in any way.\n\n\"Have I made myself clear?\"\n\nNobuhide scowled but bowed in assent. As he turned to leave, he pointed at Hiro and said, \"Sakura Teahouse, noon, two days from now. Make sure the priest is there.\"\n\nHe stalked from the room, feet thumping the wooden floor.\n\n\"I wish I could do more,\" the magistrate told Hiro. \"Justice is in your hands now.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's work on this story segment. I'll provide a part, and you'll continue with six sentences in the style of Susan Spann. This is mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre and characters might appear without introduction." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As they left the magistrate's compound, Hiro asked Father Mateo, \"Have you got a plan?\"\n\n\"A plan?\"\n\n\"Yes, to find the killer.\"\n\nThe Jesuit ran his hand through his hair. \"I hadn't really thought that far ahead.\"\n\n\"I didn't think so,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You should leave Kyoto. Nobuhide cannot kill what he cannot find.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Run away? I have to help Sayuri prove her innocence.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Assuming she is innocent,\" Hiro said, \"which is far from certain. The bloody footprints in the room were a perfect match to her tiny feet.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She might have walked in blood by mistake.\"\n\nHiro gave the priest a disbelieving look. No one should take trust and forgiveness that far.\n\n\"How many Japanese willfully touch defiling blood?\" Hiro asked. \"If Sayuri didn't commit the murder she is certainly an accomplice.\"\n\nThey turned left past the police compound and followed Shijō Road back toward the river." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A gentle breeze fluttered the indigo noren in the doorways, indicating the shops had opened for business." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Meaty scents wafted across the road, and Hiro's mouth watered at the thought of fresh stuffed buns." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He looked for the bun shop but didn't see it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Sayuri couldn't kill a man,\" Father Mateo said. \"She's just a girl.\"\n\nThe words brought Hiro back from his hungry reverie. \"Japanese women are stronger than they seem, and entertainers are trained to feign innocence.\"\n\n\"But Sayuri is a Christian.\"\n\n\"She's also a liar.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't like you saying that, even if you think it's true.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'moved' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Almost everything she told us was a lie,\" Hiro persisted, \"and the way she looked at Mayuri suggests they both know what really happened. They're covering something up.\"\n\n\"Impossible,\" Father Mateo said. \"You have no proof of that.\"\n\n\"But I do. Someone moved the body shortly after the crime. Given the bloodstained kimono, I'm guessing it was Sayuri.\"\n\n\"Why would she do that?\" the priest asked. \"And even so, moving him doesn't mean she killed him. She could have moved him this morning when she woke up and discovered him dead.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The evidence says otherwise.\" Hiro made a sweeping gesture. \"Neck wounds spray blood everywhere. You saw the droplets on the wall and on the floor.\n\n\"Hideyoshi was facing the tokonoma when someone attacked him from behind. The drops all sprayed in the same direction, which means he didn't fight. He probably didn't have time. Blood spattered the wall and pooled on the floor in front of the alcove, but there were only minor bloodstains on the futon, the kind that happen when blood has ceased to flow actively through the veins." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Had Sayuri moved him hours after death, as her story implies, there would have been no blood on the futon at all.\"\n\n\"Maybe the killer moved him after the attack.\"\n\n\"Why would a killer do that?\" Hiro waited, but the priest didn't answer. \"A killer who rips out throats and gouges eyes doesn't stop to arrange the victim on a futon.\"\n\n\"Unless he wanted to throw suspicion on Sayuri,\" Father Mateo said." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'truth' 3 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did he smear blood on her kimono while she slept?\" Hiro shook his head. \"If you want to discover who killed the samurai, you have to stop accepting lies as truth.\"\n\n\"But how will we find the truth? If we can't trust Sayuri, who can we trust?\"\n\n\"Trust the evidence,\" Hiro said. \"Facts don't lie, and when people do, their stories still lead to the truth eventually. Follow a lie far enough and you will reach a fact." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We know where and when the killer struck, but why that time and place? Why did someone want Hideyoshi dead? If we can answer those questions I think we can find the killer, but you must understand, if Sayuri is guilty I will turn her over to Nobuhide and you must not interfere.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Agreed,\" Father Mateo said, \"but Sayuri is innocent. You will see.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for five sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Four samurai stood guard outside the Sakura Teahouse, one at each of the garden gates and two more leaning against the stone dogs near the path." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They wore baggy trousers and wide-shouldered surcoats, like Nobuhide's but more cheaply made." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All four wore swords and carried hooked jitte, which identified them as dōshin, low-ranking policemen undoubtedly under Nobuhide's command." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The dead man's son had wasted no time putting his underlings on guard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro leaned toward Father Mateo as they approached. \"Speak Portuguese if you have to speak at all.\"\n\nThree of the dōshin had graying hair and the confident calm of experienced policemen. The fourth was no more than twenty, with the rounded face and slightly overweight build of a pampered son. His scraggly mustache, grown to show his manhood, had the opposite result." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The older dōshin nodded as Hiro reached the walk." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The younger man leaned back against his statue, withholding respect to reinforce his authority." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What is your business here?\" the young dōshin demanded. \"No one enters this house today.\"\n\nFather Mateo began to bow but Hiro stopped him with a look.\n\n\"Is the house under quarantine?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The older dōshin glanced at his young companion, but the silent warning went unnoticed. The young man raised his jitte to block the path. The weapon shone like new, in sharp contrast to the dōshin's fraying sleeves and faded trousers.\n\n\"We are guarding this establishment. There has been a crime.\"\n\nNobuhide must have told him not to mention murder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Precisely the reason for our visit,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Father Mateo Ávila de Santos, of the Portuguese foreign mission, is investigating the death of Akechi Hideyoshi.\"\n\nThe older dōshin stepped back to clear the path, but the younger man stood up and blocked the way.\n\n\"Foreigners have no jurisdiction here. This is a police matter.\" His knuckles whitened as he clutched the jitte.\n\n\"A police matter?\" Hiro asked. \"Under your jurisdiction?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The older man's eyes shifted downward. The younger one drew his shoulders back and said nothing.\n\n\"Who is your supervisor?\" Hiro asked. He knew the answer. The question served a different purpose." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't have to tell you that.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro looked at the older dōshin, raised an eyebrow, and waited." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Akechi Nobuhide,\" he said, \"Yoriki of Pontocho.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Pontocho.\" Hiro glanced over his shoulder toward the bridge." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should naturally weave in this dialogue: \"This teahouse lies outside Pontocho.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"This teahouse lies outside Pontocho.\"\n\n\"That's none of your business,\" the younger dōshin snapped. \"Go away before I call the magistrate.\"\n\nThe words rolled off his tongue with the facility of frequent use.\n\n\"A fine idea,\" Hiro said politely." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The dōshin's eyes went wide as Hiro continued. \"Magistrate Ishimaki ordered full police cooperation with the priest's investigation, but I'm sure he won't mind you interrupting his morning audience to ask for repetition of those instructions.\"\n\nThe young dōshin narrowed his eyes and seethed. His older companion shifted from foot to foot. Policemen did not disagree with their partners in public, but the more experienced man seemed on the verge of speaking." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At the garden gates, the other two men watched the scene with interest." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'leave' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They were too far away to hear the conversation, but would close the distance instantly if anyone drew a sword.\n\nThe young dōshin pointed his jitte at Hiro's chest. \"No funny business. When you leave, you leave alone. No companions and no parcels. Is that clear?\"\n\nHiro wanted to take the bully down a notch or two, but pragmatism required otherwise, for the moment at least. He bowed slightly and allowed the tension to defuse." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you for your cooperation. You are indeed an example for your companions.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "What kind of example, Hiro didn't say.\n\nInstead, he nodded to the older dōshin and followed the Jesuit up the path to the teahouse." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing exercise: four sentences sentences continuing this chapter, Susan Spann style, mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre. characters may be pre-established" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Use 'mateo' 2 times in response]" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mayuri opened the door just as Father Mateo reached out to knock. He withdrew his hand awkwardly and lowered it to his side. Mayuri lowered her own hands even faster, but not before Hiro saw the dark smudges on her fingers and an angry burn on her left hand that hadn't been there earlier in the day.\n\nFather Mateo noticed too. \"Are you injured?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mayuri pulled her hand into her sleeve." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It is nothing. I burned myself lighting a fire. The servant ran away when she heard about the murder—superstitious little fool. Why do you think I've answered the door myself all morning?\"\n\nShe cast a harried glance toward the road as though hoping the servant would return. As her eyes shifted back to Hiro, she forced a smile. \"Did you forget something earlier?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo bowed. \"We hoped to speak with Sayuri.\"\n\n\"And also the other women who work in the house,\" Hiro added.\n\nMayuri's smile wavered. \"No one saw or heard anything. I spoke with each of them myself.\"\n\n\"Then it will be a short conversation,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you for accommodating us.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It will take some time,\" Mayuri said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We are not prepared for company so early.\"\n\n\"We can talk with Sayuri while we wait.\" Hiro smiled pleasantly, knowing the teahouse owner could not refuse without bringing more suspicion on herself.\n\nWhen she realized Hiro had no intention of leaving, Mayuri tilted her head in consent and turned to lead the men into the house." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her kimono rustled slightly, like a mouse in a sack of grain." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As Mayuri turned, Hiro noticed a scrap of paper caught on the back of her kimono." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The trailing end of her obi had trapped it just above the hem. Hiro bent and plucked the paper from her dress, slipping it into his sleeve as he straightened. He said nothing. Teahouse culture valued neatness and beauty above all else. Mayuri would have been mortified to learn she was trailing scraps, and, although Hiro didn't care about her feelings, he also saw no reason to cause her unnecessary embarrassment." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mayuri led the men to the first door on the western side of the large common room. As she knelt she said, \"You may speak with Sayuri here, but please do not take too long. I have priests coming to purify the house.\"\n\nFather Mateo entered the room as soon as Mayuri opened the door, but Hiro paused just long enough to ask, \"You will tell me when the other girls are ready?\"\n\nMayuri's mouth pressed shut in a very thin smile. \"Of course.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro stepped over the threshold and joined the Jesuit inside." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The room was identical to the adjacent one except for a welcome lack of blood and the absence of a corpse. An unspoiled vase of hydrangeas adorned the tokonoma. The flower arrangement showed more skill than the one in the room where the murder occurred. Hiro recognized it as a master's work." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The spoiled arrangement was likely the work of a student." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri knelt in front of the alcove, facing the door, with her back to the vase of flowers." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She had bathed and changed into a simple kimono of patterned silk. Without her makeup, she looked younger than before, and also more beautiful.\n\nA shamisen lay on the floor to her right. The lack of ornate decoration suggested a practice instrument, something to pass the time." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Make a useful comment,\" Hiro said in Portuguese." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'would' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo recognized the coded cue at once. \"What something would you have me say? Do you need more than this or have I said enough already?\" He kept his voice even so the questions would sound like statements.\n\n\"That will do.\" Hiro turned." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mayuri knelt in the doorway as though she intended to stay." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I apologize for the foreign exchange,\" Hiro said. \"Father Mateo does not know the proper words for his request." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"His religion has a rite called 'confession,' in which an accused person speaks confidentially with a priest. Father Mateo requests permission to have confession with Sayuri now.\"\n\nMayuri frowned. \"Is privacy required?\"\n\nHiro nodded. \"A translator may assist if necessary, but no one else is permitted to remain.\"\n\nMayuri looked at Sayuri." }, { "from": "human", "value": "To Hiro's surprise, the girl nodded in agreement." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Very well.\" Mayuri sighed. \"I have business to attend to anyway.\"\n\nHiro remained by the door to ensure that her shadow disappeared.\n\nSayuri burst into tears the moment the door closed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm sorry. This is my fault. I would not have asked you to come if I thought Nobuhide would kill you too.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't worry,\" Father Mateo said. \"Hiro and I will find the real killer.\"\n\nSayuri stopped crying and looked up through her tears. \"Do you really think you can?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro fought the urge to laugh at her attempt to manipulate the priest until he realized, with dismay, that it had worked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Of course we will,\" Father Mateo said, \"but we need you to tell us what really happened last night.\"\n\n\"I already did. I woke up and Akechi-san was dead.\"\n\n\"I don't think that's true.\" Father Mateo's unexpected firmness made Hiro wonder if the Jesuit saw through Sayuri's performance after all." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Are you scared to tell the truth? Has someone threatened you?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Of course not,\" she said, a bit too quickly for the truth. \"A shinobi must have killed him.\"\n\n\"Who would want to assassinate Akechi Hideyoshi?\" Hiro asked.\n\nSayuri looked at him, wide-eyed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't know. Akechi-san was a good man. Mayuri says he always paid his bills.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He was wealthy?\" Hiro asked.\n\nSayuri thought it over. \"He didn't buy me presents like the other girls get sometimes, but then, he wasn't my patron, just a regular visitor.\"\n\n\"Did he ever bring guests to the teahouse?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri smiled. Her eyes sparkled." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He brought his brother, Hidetaro.\"\n\nHiro found it curious that Sayuri's first genuine smile came at the mention of Hideyoshi's brother. Nothing in teahouse culture prohibited a girl from entertaining both a man and his relatives, though a girl who accepted a man as her patron would generally refuse separate visits from his brothers or male relations.\n\n\"Anyone else?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri squinted at the ceiling." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her forehead wrinkled in thought. \"A couple of months ago he entertained a cousin from out of town. Masuhide? No, but something like that.\"\n\n\"You don't remember?\" Hiro asked. Entertainers were trained to remember names, to make a client's friends feel special on subsequent visits." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No.\" Sayuri pushed a stray hair behind her ear as her cheeks turned pink with embarrassment." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I got the impression they had only met a couple of times. They didn't seem close, and Hideyoshi said the cousin was just passing through on business. I didn't think I would need to remember his name.\"\n\n\"What about Hideyoshi's brother... Hidetaro? Did he visit you often?\"\n\n\"A few times, with Hideyoshi.\" Sayuri's radiant smile returned, but faded quickly." }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'asked' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hidetaro can't afford teahouses. But he's very nice.\"\n\n\"When was the last time you saw him?\" Hiro asked.\n\nSayuri looked at the floor. \"Several weeks ago.\"\n\n\"What about Nobuhide?\" Father Mateo asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He's not allowed here anymore.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sayuri's eyes widened. She lowered her voice. \"He got drunk and forced himself on one of the girls. We're not that kind of house. It made Mayuri furious. She told Hideyoshi his son was not welcome anymore.\"\n\n\"Do you know the girl's name?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Umeha?\" Sayuri shook her head." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required dialogue to include (maintain exact wording): \"I think it was Umeha, but I'm not sure. She hasn't worked here in over a year. I think—\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I think it was Umeha, but I'm not sure. She hasn't worked here in over a year. I think—\"\n\nThe door rustled open and Sayuri cut herself off midsentence.\n\nMayuri knelt in the doorway.\n\n\"I apologize for the inconvenience,\" she said, in a tone that said the opposite. \"My women cannot speak with you this morning. It appears you have waited for nothing.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing exercise: four sentences sentences continuing this chapter, Susan Spann style, mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre. characters may be pre-established" }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'mateo' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo started to protest but Hiro bowed and said, \"Thank you. We will come back later.\"\n\nMayuri stood up to lead them out. Father Mateo gave Hiro a confused look. The shinobi shook his head slightly and followed Mayuri without argument." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When they reached the front of the teahouse Hiro said, \"Since the other girls cannot speak with us, perhaps you can tell us where to find Umeha.\"\n\nMayuri's smile disappeared. Her lips parted in surprise, but she recovered almost immediately. \"I'm afraid I don't know that name.\"\n\n\"You are afraid because you do,\" Hiro corrected, \"and either you tell me where to find her, or I let it slip to our friends in the yard that she has information about Hideyoshi's death that you have tried to hide. We'll see how long it takes them to find her for me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"They already know where to find her.\" Mayuri's smile faded and her expression hardened as she looked past Hiro at the dōshin standing in the yard. \"You can find her at the House of the Floating Plums in Pontocho.\"\n\nFather Mateo said nothing until they reached the bridge." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As they crossed the river he said, \"Why did we leave? We need to talk with the other women. Someone must have heard something.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you think they would tell us the truth?\" Hiro didn't wait for a response. \"Mayuri is hiding something and her women will back her up, at least until we know enough to persuade them otherwise.\"\n\n\"Well, at least Mayuri helped us find Umeha,\" the priest said, \"though I'm not sure why you want to know.\"\n\n\"When a dead man's heir has violent tendencies, it's helpful to find out how deeply they run.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing buddy needed! 9 sentences more in Susan Spann's voice. mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre. this is from a bigger story btw" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The House of the Floating Plums lay deep within the shadows of Pontocho, a tiny two-story teahouse squeezed between seedy-looking brothels." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The overhanging upper floors of the buildings kept the earthen road in near-perpetual twilight, making it difficult to read the signs that identified businesses. Sunset would transform the dingy alley into a glittering paradise of paper lanterns, silk kimonos, and painted faces, but daytime Pontocho reminded Hiro of an aging prostitute without her makeup on.\n\n\"This is it?\" Father Mateo asked as they paused before the door.\n\nHiro tried to see the teahouse as it looked through the Jesuit's eyes. The pine façade had weathered to brownish-gray, with darker patches of rot beneath the eaves. The second story hung over the alley, almost touching the upper floor of the brothel across the street. No stone dogs or cherry trees adorned the entry. Instead, a hand-painted board read FLOATING PLUMS.\n\n\"This is a brothel,\" Father Mateo said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Probably.\" Hiro didn't share the priest's dismay." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He knocked. Footsteps approached on the inside and a woman opened the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her plain blue kimono and narrow sash identified her as a servant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She bowed deeply at the sight of Hiro's swords. As she straightened, she noticed the priest. Her mouth fell open in shock and her eyes grew wide. She covered her surprise with a second bow, though it didn't give her quite enough time to recover her composure.\n\n\"Is this the House of the Floating Plums?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Yes, sir, but I am sorry to say we do not open until evening. A thousand apologies. The girls are resting now.\"\n\n\"We are not customers,\" Hiro said.\n\nThe woman clasped her hands and bit her lower lip. Hiro understood her inner turmoil." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She could not invite them in without incurring her mistress's wrath, but leaving a samurai and a foreigner on the doorstep showed an appalling lack of hospitality." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We are here on official business,\" Hiro added." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required text (preserve exact wording): \"That was different. I told it to save Sayuri's life.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Please fetch your mistress.\"\n\nThe woman bowed and scurried away.\n\n\"That was a lie,\" Father Mateo said.\n\nHiro raised an eyebrow at the priest. \"Not as big as the one you told Nobuhide. Besides, I am on official business. Nobuhide is an official and I want to know his business.\"\n\nThe priest did not return his smile.\n\nHiro grew frustrated. \"I went along with your lie back at the teahouse.\"\n\n\"That was different. I told it to save Sayuri's life.\"\n\n\"Which makes it all right with your god?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo didn't answer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro laughed and the tension fell away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I thought as much.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then he grew serious." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I didn't ask to get involved in this, and I still disagree with your decision, but we are involved now, and I will do whatever it takes to ensure that your head stays on your shoulders. A lie is only the beginning.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "[System: Include the following text] → \"She was probably still asleep.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro and Father Mateo stepped inside and seated themselves on the built-in wooden bench that ran along the left wall of the entry. Yellowish paper lined the wooden lattices. A smell of greasy smoke hung in the air, reminiscent of cheap food cooked too quickly and left out overnight.\n\nTen minutes elapsed. Hiro passed the time by finding patterns in the stains on the walls.\n\n\"I don't think anyone is coming,\" Father Mateo said at last.\n\n\"The mistress would need time to dress and fix her makeup,\" Hiro said. \"She was probably still asleep.\"\n\nA faint sound made Hiro look to the inner door. Moments later, a woman appeared in the doorway." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wore a silk kimono adorned with hand-painted butterflies. A purple silk obi glowed at her waist, and butterfly ornaments glittered in her graying hair. Her makeup did not quite hide the wrinkles around her eyes, though her cheeks and neck were smooth.\n\nHiro bowed. \"Good morning.\"\n\nThe woman frowned at the visitors. \"You are not from the shogun or the magistrate. This establishment does not open until evening.\"\n\nShe gestured toward the door as though expecting them to leave.\n\n\"I apologize for the inconvenience,\" Hiro said. \"We would like to see Umeha.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did Nobuhide send you?\" she asked.\n\n\"Are you expecting him?\" Hiro countered.\n\nHer face revealed nothing. \"I didn't say that.\"\n\n\"We are investigating a murder,\" Father Mateo said. \"We need to speak with Umeha.\"\n\nHiro fought the urge to cover his face with his hand. The foreigner had a good grasp of Japanese culture, but had not yet mastered the art of indirection. At times he reminded Hiro of an impulsive toddler or an elderly woman devoid of self-control." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Murder?\" The woman's left hand crept to her throat." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"There's been no murder. Nobuhide was fine when he left this morning.\"\n\n\"Then Nobuhide was here,\" Hiro said. The priest's words may have been bullheaded, but they provided an opening the shinobi would not waste.\n\nShe nodded. \"He spent the night with Umeha. A messenger came for him a few hours ago. He was alive and well when he left. Whatever happened, it didn't happen here.\"\n\n\"May we speak with Umeha,\" Hiro asked, \"to confirm your story?\"\n\n\"Wait here, I will get her for you.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll be your writing partner today. I will set the scene and character context, and you will continue with 7 sentences, keeping within the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As they waited to see Umeha, Hiro examined a parchment on the wall. Many teahouses placed decorative scrolls in the entry. In a high-class house the hanging might contain a poem or a landscape. At the House of the Floating Plums, it displayed a list of names. They appeared in no obvious order, though Hiro knew the most expensive girls usually appeared near the top.\n\nUmeha's name appeared about halfway down the list, not close enough to the top for a pure entertainer though not necessarily low enough to indicate a prostitute.\n\nThe establishment called itself a teahouse, but its location near the brothels at the center of Pontocho, as well as the scroll of names, suggested that its clientele could purchase more than merely drinks and singing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Umeha's transfer provided a further clue." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "High-end houses preferred pure entertainers, women who might accept a single patron but who did not sleep with men for money as a normal enterprise. A woman defiled against her will lost value and desirability. Only a house of lesser status could accept her without losing face.\n\nHiro decided to treat Umeha as a high-class entertainer and pretend that he knew nothing of her past. He needed information, and flattery loosened feminine lips.\n\nThe girl appeared in the doorway. She wore a pink kimono with a red-and-white-striped obi that highlighted her pale skin and delicate features." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Although not as strikingly beautiful as Sayuri, she had an honest face and large, childlike eyes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She looked at most fifteen, though she had to be at least three or four years older. That, too, came as no surprise. Women in the pleasure districts treasured their youth and held it well. Their income depended on it.\n\nUmeha startled in surprise at the sight of Father Mateo, but quickly turned the movement into a bow.\n\n\"Good morning, Honorable Gentlemen,\" she said. She struggled with silence, then blurted out, \"Has something happened to Nobuhide?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No, he is well,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Umeha's forehead wrinkled with concern. \"Madame said...\"\n\n\"I'm afraid that was a ruse.\" Hiro gave an embarrassed bow. \"I wanted to speak with you, so I might have allowed her to think Nobuhide was killed.\"\n\nUmeha looked from Hiro to the priest. She clasped her hands at her waist, the universal gesture of teahouse women trying to keep still. \"I don't understand.\"\n\n\"Nobuhide's father is dead.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro didn't care about spreading the news. Word traveled fast in the floating world of the teahouses, and the Sakura's location outside Pontocho made little difference where gossip was concerned. Every entertainer in Kyoto would know about the murder by evening, whether Hiro mentioned it or not.\n\nUmeha flushed, then paled.\n\n\"He spent the night with me while his father was dying?\" She covered her mouth with her hands and then tilted her head down so her fingers covered her face. Her shoulders heaved with sorrow, and possibly fear." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It is very sad,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'suggested' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I am sorry to bear bad news.\"\n\nHe found the girl's reaction curious, mostly because it seemed genuine. A courtesan or a prostitute would normally show more restraint. It suggested Nobuhide meant more to her than just a purse—which, in turn, suggested that Umeha had not been Nobuhide's victim three years before. At least, not an unwilling victim.\n\nThe girl removed her hands from her face. Her eyes were red but free of tears." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No, I'm glad you came.\" A lopsided smile played at the corner of her lips despite her attempts to control it. \"Akechi-san left so quickly when the messenger came. He barely spoke. I thought I made him angry by drinking too much last night. I did drink too much. I even fell asleep before...\" She caught herself. \"I fell asleep too early.\"\n\nShe raised a hand to her chest. \"I shouldn't feel better knowing his father is dead, but I hated thinking Nobuhide was mad at me.\"\n\n\"Is he often angry?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro asked. He didn't expect an honest answer, so it surprised him when Umeha shook her head vehemently and without hesitation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The lopsided smile returned, too, and this time she made no attempt to hide it. \"Not at all. Nobu isn't like that. He's a wonderful patron. I don't see anyone else. Last night he even undressed me and put me into bed.\" She laughed. \"My dress was so muddy! We must have gone to every bar in Pontocho.\"\n\n\"Do you remember which ones you went to?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"I don't remember anything after dinner.\" She giggled. \"But then, I never remember anything when I drink like that.\"\n\nHer forehead furrowed. \"I hope he isn't angry, though.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include \"I don't think anyone could stay angry with you for long.\" somewhere in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro gave her a reassuring smile. \"I don't think anyone could stay angry with you for long.\"\n\nShe smiled. \"He did say he would come back tonight if he could.\"\n\n\"Does he visit you often?\"\n\n\"Every—\" A red flush darkened her cheeks and crept across the bridge of her nose, like a little girl caught stealing candied plums. She shook her head. \"I'm not supposed to talk about my patron. You know that.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"True enough,\" Hiro said with a smile. \"You caught me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm so sorry his father is dead,\" Umeha said. \"Nobuhide slept so well last night. I was sad to wake him when the messenger came, and now I'm even sadder.\"\n\n\"You did the right thing,\" Hiro said, less to comfort Umeha than to extract himself from a conversation that had already served its purpose.\n\nNobuhide's alleged rape now sounded more like an affair discovered, after which Umeha claimed attack to avoid admitting that she had provided unpaid services on the sly. After her transfer to a less expensive house, they had formalized their arrangement, apparently to their mutual satisfaction.\n\nUmeha looked at Father Mateo and murmured, \"I've never seen a foreigner. He's not as pale as I thought a ghost would be, and he dresses almost like a real person.\"\n\n\"He speaks like one too,\" Father Mateo said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Umeha's jaw dropped open." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her hands flew up to hide her astonishment and she bowed repeatedly from the waist.\n\n\"I'm so sorry,\" she said. \"I apologize.\"\n\nFather Mateo laughed. \"Please, think nothing of it.\"\n\nHiro didn't find it funny at all. If Umeha mentioned the priest to Nobuhide, the yoriki would know they had misled him about the Jesuit's language skills.\n\n\"Thank you for your time,\" Hiro said. \"Again, I apologize for the unnecessary fright.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Umeha's smile returned. Open joy seemed to be her usual expression." }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'don't' exactly 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't care,\" she said, \"as long as Nobu is all right.\"\n\n\"And as long as he's not angry,\" Hiro said.\n\nUmeha nodded.\n\n\"I'm glad you don't mind me bringing Father Mateo along,\" Hiro added, \"most people consider foreigners as unlucky as foxes and ghosts.\"\n\n\"Unlucky?\" Umeha's forehead furrowed. \"Why?\"\n\n\"I don't know,\" Hiro said. \"It's not true, of course, but some samurai are superstitious. Nobuhide, for example. He thought the priest would defile his father's body just by entering the room.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Umeha's breathing grew shallow and her right hand crept to the base of her neck." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Really?\" She looked terrified.\n\nHiro bit his lower lip as though realizing the implication of his words. \"I'm afraid he did.\"\n\nUmeha looked as if she might start crying.\n\nHiro raised a finger as though he had an idea. \"I tell you what. I won't mention our visit to Nobuhide. I don't want to get you in trouble.\"\n\nUmeha sighed with relief." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you so much.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As Hiro and Father Mateo walked up the twisting alley away from the teahouse, the priest said, \"I can't believe you frightened that girl on purpose.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't want her to talk,\" Hiro replied." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Nobuhide will be angry enough when he learns we were checking up on him. I'd rather not have him learn we lied as well.\"\n\n\"We did not lie,\" Father Mateo said. \"At least, I didn't. I never claimed I didn't speak Japanese.\"\n\n\"You went along with it,\" Hiro replied, \"and to samurai, that's a lie.\"\n\nThey reached Shijō Road and turned right, toward the river.\n\n\"At least we learned a little more about Nobuhide,\" Hiro said. \"I think his vicious streak was an act, concocted to save his purse from Mayuri's wrath.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo looked confused." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 8 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Men pay a higher rate for special services at a high-end house—much higher when the owner doesn't want the girls to provide them, and astronomically high when the service and fee are not negotiated in advance.\"\n\nFather Mateo nodded. \"So Umeha claimed rape, and accepted dishonor, rather than confessing the affair.\" He shook his head. \"No woman should have to make such a choice.\"\n\nHiro didn't answer. Despite the Jesuit's interest in assimilation, the priest had several obstinate blind spots. Hiro had learned to ignore them when he could.\n\nA few paces farther down the road Father Mateo asked, \"Wouldn't Nobuhide have to pay for Umeha's services anyway?\"\n\n\"Yes, but if Umeha claimed assault, Mayuri could only charge him for one night.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Cooperative storytelling\nContext: May include established characters/lore without introduction\nMy role: Provide a brief opening\nYour role: Expand upon my opening with 10 sentences, emulating the writing style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The sun stood almost overhead by the time Hiro and Father Mateo returned to the church. As the priest stepped into the entry, an elderly female voice called, \"Oi, Father Mateo, you're back. I have your meal waiting.\"\n\nHiro followed the Jesuit inside as the woman rose from her bow. She had steel-gray hair and a dried-plum face that showed every one of her sixty-two years, along with a few that she hadn't even lived yet. Her wrinkled cheeks creased in a smile that set her black eyes twinkling. Anyone could tell she adored the priest.\n\n\"Have you had a nice morning?\" she asked.\n\n\"Very nice, thank you, Ana,\" Father Mateo replied as he bowed.\n\nThe elderly housekeeper had served as the previous owners' nanny and maid and had stayed on when Father Mateo acquired the property. Her name was Ane, but she changed the pronunciation the moment she learned that Ana was a name in Portuguese." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her smile faded when she saw the shinobi." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hiro,\" she said. \"I suppose you want rice?\"\n\nShe spoke like a parent addressing a child who spilled his food and asked for more, only to spill that too.\n\n\"Thank you, Ana.\" Hiro nodded respectfully. Samurai did not bend to servants, but the housekeeper inspired respect that transcended her station.\n\n\"Hm.\" She pointed to the hearth as she shuffled toward the kitchen. \"Sit down.\"\n\nHiro and Father Mateo crossed to the hearth that dominated the oe, the large central room that functioned as a combination parlor and dining room. The sunken hearth sat six inches below the surrounding floor. It held a bed of dark sand upon which a small fire burned. A kettle hung over the fire, suspended on a chain that hung from a ceiling beam. Steam rose from the kettle and mingled with the tendrils of woodsmoke that curled toward the ceiling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The hearth fire could have cooked a meal, and did in smaller homes, but the priest's house had a separate kitchen beyond the oe, where Ana did the cooking." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo initially tried to help, but the elderly woman resented any intrusion or assistance, particularly from a man whose efforts she viewed as a fire hazard.\n\nThe priest knelt before the hearth, in the position facing the door. He knelt directly on the tatami, like a Japanese would, without any cushion or chair. Hiro took the place to Father Mateo's left, on the side of the hearth normally used by the other members of a family.\n\nThe seat of honor to Father Mateo's right was already occupied by the final member of the Jesuit's household.\n\nLuis Álvares was a portly man with skin the color of wilted primroses and an unusually large, red nose that looked to Hiro like a cross between a berry and a gourd. He had long dark hair pulled back in a greasy ponytail and piggish brown eyes that missed only what their owner chose not to see. He wore a short-waisted, high-necked doublet and fitted hose that did no courtesies to his ample figure. Slashes in the doublet sleeves revealed a cream-colored blouse beneath.\n\n\"Good morning, Mateo,\" Luis said in Portuguese." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He wiped his sweaty forehead with the hand that held his chopsticks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And to you, Luis,\" Father Mateo said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm surprised you're still here at this hour.\"\n\n\"Been to the warehouse and back already,\" Luis said between mouthfuls. \"One of the rice merchants made a major purchase.\"\n\n\"Curious,\" Hiro said. \"I wouldn't think rice dealers had much use for firearms.\"\n\nLuis looked down his nose at Hiro. \"I sell more than weapons, you know.\"\n\n\"How are those textiles selling for you?\" Hiro asked. \"Wool, I believe you called them?\"\n\nLuis made an exasperated noise. A grain of rice flew from his mouth and sizzled in the fire." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The Japanese refuse to buy it. Yesterday a woman had the nerve to tell me it smelled bad!\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "/set_word_count: mateo, frequency: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro couldn't agree more. Wool smelled like a three-day-old corpse. He couldn't believe anyone wore it willingly, though the bolts in Luis's warehouse suggested that someone considered it worth the trouble to produce and sell.\n\n\"Silk kimonos are comfortable in this climate.\" Father Mateo sounded almost apologetic.\n\n\"I still can't believe you wear that ridiculous native costume,\" Luis said. \"You look like a woman.\"\n\n\"You should try it,\" Father Mateo replied. \"It's cooler than doublets and hose.\"\n\n\"And more difficult to rip,\" Hiro added, with a pointed look at the merchant's tunic." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"My sleeves are made this way,\" Luis said indignantly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The style is very fashionable, though I suppose I shouldn't expect a Japanese to understand.\"\n\n\"I'm afraid not.\" Hiro smiled. \"We ignorant natives prefer to buy new clothes instead of calling damaged ones 'fashionable.'\"\n\nFather Mateo changed the subject. \"What did the merchant buy this morning?\"\n\nBefore Luis could reply Ana scurried in and set a tray on the floor in front of Father Mateo. It held a bowl of miso soup with tofu, a teapot, and a pair of chopsticks balanced on an ivory rest.\n\nShe frowned at the men around the hearth. \"Who brought that cat in?\"\n\nThe tortoiseshell kitten had followed her into the room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As she pointed in its direction, it turned around and streaked into Hiro's room." }, { "from": "system", "value": "At some point in your response, insert this verbatim: \"Good. When it grows up it will keep the mice away. It's already started on the spiders.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro and Father Mateo exchanged a look.\n\n\"I did,\" Hiro admitted, \"as a present for Father Mateo.\"\n\nHe hoped Ana's love for the Jesuit would prevent a scolding, but didn't count on it.\n\n\"Hm,\" she said. \"Is it staying?\"\n\n\"Yes?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\nShe nodded. \"Good. When it grows up it will keep the mice away. It's already started on the spiders.\"\n\n\"It eats spiders?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Plucks them right off the wall.\" Ana gave Hiro a rare nod of approval as she turned back toward the kitchen.\n\n\"Three dozen arquebuses.\" Luis continued the conversation as though Ana had not spoken." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The merchant acknowledged servants only when he had no other choice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The man has been having trouble with thieves and wanted to arm his guards.\"\n\n\"They want muskets instead of swords?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\nHiro thought the idea made good sense. A firearm beat a sword for stopping thieves.\n\n\"You don't have to sound so disappointed,\" Luis said. He set down his bowl and chopsticks and poured himself a cup of tea. \"Francis Xavier approved this trade to finance mission work in Japan, and if the former head of the Jesuit order didn't mind you have no reason to object.\"\n\n\"Even you must see the irony in taking lives with one hand while the other tries to save them,\" the priest replied.\n\n\"The Japanese are quite capable of taking lives without my assistance,\" Luis snorted. \"They were hacking each other apart with swords long before we landed.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo did not respond." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was an old argument, and not one he would win.\n\nThe maid returned with a tray for Hiro. She set it down and disappeared without a word. As Father Mateo blessed the food, Hiro noted his own soup contained seven cubes of tofu—three more than usual—doubtless a reward for bringing the cat.\n\n\"Where have you been this morning?\" Luis asked.\n\nFather Mateo set down his bowl. \"One of my converts was accused of killing a samurai.\"\n\nLuis sipped his tea. \"Did he?\"\n\n\"She,\" Father Mateo corrected, \"and no, she didn't.\"\n\n\"Pity,\" Luis said without feeling." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I take it you went to perform last rites? The murderous bastards doubtless killed her anyway.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Actually, no. She has been granted two days to prove her innocence, and I'm going to help her do it.\"\n\n\"Why would you want to do that?\"\n\n\"Because if he doesn't,\" Hiro said, \"the dead man's son will kill him too.\"\n\nLuis sputtered in surprise and lost his grip on the egg-shaped teacup. Hot liquid spilled down his doublet and onto his hose.\n\n\"Pestilence!\" Luis swore as he brushed at the stain. \"I'll have to change! Hiro, that isn't funny.\"\n\nLuis realized no one was laughing.\n\n\"Mateo, please tell me he's joking.\"\n\n\"It's no joke,\" Father Mateo said, \"but we'll find the killer in time.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Blind faith won't save you from swords.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Luis turned a sweaty glare on Hiro." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How could you let this happen? Why did you translate things that would get him killed!\"\n\n\"It's not his fault,\" Father Mateo said.\n\n\"Get the magistrate to intervene,\" Luis continued. \"They're always bragging about their powerful judges.\"\n\n\"The law allows a nobleman's son to avenge his father's death,\" Father Mateo said. \"If I don't help, the girl is as good as dead.\"\n\n\"Then let her die,\" Luis said. \"What is she, anyway, some kind of prostitute?\"\n\n\"Entertainer,\" Father Mateo corrected.\n\n\"Prostitute,\" Luis repeated as he hoisted himself to his feet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Let her die. Leave town if you must. She's not worth jeopardizing your work, or my profits.\"\n\nHiro watched in silence as Luis disappeared into his room. For the first time ever, he found himself agreeing with the merchant.\n\nHe swallowed the last of his soup. As he set the empty bowl on the tray the scrap of paper from the teahouse scratched his arm inside his sleeve. He pulled it out to toss it in the fire, but at the last moment he snatched it back from the flames.\n\nThe palm-sized fragment of parchment contained columns of names and figures written in a feminine hand. The lower edge was dark and smudged with dirt or ash but not actually burned.\n\nTeahouses kept careful records and never destroyed their ledgers. Hiro wondered why this one had been torn, and whether its destruction was intentional or merely coincidence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Given the ash, and Mayuri's burned hand, he decided against coincidence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What's that?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\n\"A scrap I retrieved from Mayuri's kimono. It seems to be part of a ledger.\"\n\n\"From her kimono?\" The priest leaned forward for a better look. \"That's strange.\"\n\n\"More than you know,\" Hiro said. \"We need to go back to the teahouse. Immediately.\"\n\n\"Why?\"\n\nHiro offered the paper. \"To find out why Mayuri destroyed her ledger this morning.\"\n\n\"Destroyed it? Are you sure?\" Father Mateo examined the paper." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Maybe it was an old one?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<EMBED THIS>>: \"The date at the side indicates this year,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The date at the side indicates this year,\" Hiro said, \"and the smudge on the corner looks like ash. Curious, since Mayuri burned her hand in a fire this morning.\"\n\n\"Why would she burn a ledger?\"\n\n\"More importantly,\" Hiro said, \"why would she burn it today?\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's engage in a collaborative writing exercise. I'll provide a starting point (which may include pre-existing characters and lore), and You'll continue with 11 sentences in the style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The dōshin in the teahouse yard barely acknowledged Hiro and Father Mateo upon their return. Hiro had no objection. He preferred disregard to harassment.\n\nWhen Mayuri answered the door, she didn't even bother with a greeting. \"How will I prepare for guests with you coming and going all day?\"\n\nHiro hadn't expected a warm welcome, but the woman's lack of manners still surprised him. The teahouse culture frowned on rudeness, and Mayuri should have welcomed help to prove Sayuri's innocence—and her own.\n\n\"Are you entertaining tonight?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Unless Nobuhide's dōshin chase our visitors away.\" She paused. \"Akechi-san's death is unfortunate, but I have a business to run.\"\n\n\"We have no objection to your business,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Father Mateo has come to pray with Sayuri.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And you?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I would like to speak with the other women.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Mayuri smiled without humor or warmth. \"As I told you, I spoke with them earlier. Everyone but Sayuri was asleep when Akechi-san was killed.\"\n\n\"Then I will not need to ask them many questions.\"\n\nHiro preferred not to draw attention to himself, by rudeness or otherwise, but subtlety would not find Hideyoshi's killer.\n\nMayuri threw up her hands in exasperation. A white silk bandage covered the left one all the way to the wrist. She flinched and lowered the injured hand to her side.\n\n\"Very well,\" she said, \"follow me.\"\n\nShe took Father Mateo to see Sayuri and then led Hiro to the opposite side of the central common room. She knelt and slid open a door, using only her right hand.\n\n\"Wait here.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro entered the room and knelt before the tokonoma in the northern wall." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The alcove held an empty vase, narrow at the bottom but bulging near the top and with a mouth just large enough to hold a few flower stems. White glaze coated the porcelain and blue, hand-painted leaves flowed around the sides.\n\nThe door rustled open. Hiro heard feet on the tatami and a soft rattle as the paneled door slid closed again. Kimonos swished as the women settled on the floor a few feet away. No one spoke. Entertainers would not interrupt a visitor's meditation.\n\nHiro let them wait.\n\nAfter a couple of minutes he turned around. Three women knelt in a line before him. Their plain but expensive kimonos were made of silk. The woman in the center wore dark purple, while the ones to her sides were clad in pale pink and blue." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The women's faces looked strangely pale without their elaborate makeup, but their features remained as emotionless as masks." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Even their eyes revealed nothing.\n\nAll three women were older than Sayuri, Hiro guessed in their twenties or early thirties.\n\n\"Thank you for meeting with me,\" he said.\n\nThe women on either side looked at the one in the center. She seemed more confident than the others, and she alone met Hiro's gaze without faltering. Even before she opened her mouth, Hiro knew she would speak for the group.\n\n\"I am Okiya,\" she said. \"You have questions about last night?\"\n\n\"Did you hear the killer, or anything else unusual?\" These women were trained professionals. Hiro saw no reason to treat them as delicate flowers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Okiya didn't look at her companions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No. We all had guests in the early evening, but the rest of our visitors left before midnight. I was the last one upstairs except for Sayuri. The others had already taken off their makeup and changed their kimono. We had tea and went to sleep.\"\n\n\"You heard nothing?\"\n\n\"Not until Sayuri screamed this morning.\"\n\n\"She screamed?\"\n\nBefore Okiya could answer the woman to her right said, \"It was more like a yell.\"\n\nThe speaker was younger than Okiya, and clearly more impulsive. As soon as the words left her lips, she covered her mouth with her hand and looked down at the floor. Her blue kimono emphasized the embarrassed flush that spread across her cheeks.\n\n\"Is there a difference?\" Hiro asked.\n\nThe woman in blue uncovered her mouth. \"A real scream doesn't have any words in it. Sayuri called for help.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Riko is correct,\" Okiya said." }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<USAGE LIMIT>>: 'shook' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It was more of a yell.\"\n\n\"Who went to help her?\"\n\n\"We all did,\" Riko said, \"but Mayuri blocked the door. She said it wasn't something we should see.\"\n\n\"I'm glad I didn't look,\" said the woman on Okiya's other side. \"I don't want angry ghosts haunting me.\" Her hands shook and her pink kimono trembled.\n\n\"Don't be stupid, Yoko,\" Riko said. \"Ghosts don't haunt you unless you do the killing.\"\n\n\"Do you want to chance it?\" Yoko hugged herself, then recovered her composure and returned her hands to her lap.\n\nRiko shook her head and rolled her eyes." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Did any of you speak with Sayuri afterward?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Add this exact quote somewhere appropriate: \"It's not a ghost room,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Mayuri wouldn't let us,\" Riko said. When Okiya gave her a warning look, Riko added, \"Well, she won't, and she didn't tell me not to say so.\"\n\n\"I wouldn't go in that ghost room for anything,\" Yoko said.\n\n\"It's not a ghost room,\" Riko retorted. \"Mayuri had it cleaned and the priests are coming to bless it this afternoon.\"\n\n\"Buddhist priests?\" Yoko clutched her hands and looked nervously at the others.\n\n\"Shinto too,\" Okiya reassured her, \"from Kamigamo Shrine.\"\n\nYoko still looked worried but managed a little smile.\n\n\"Is there anything more we can tell you?\" Okiya asked.\n\n\"Who were your guests last night? Did they know Akechi Hideyoshi?\"\n\n\"I don't think so,\" Riko said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Guests who know one another often combine their parties. It's more fun that way. We play games and sing songs. Men like that.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Our guests were not acquainted,\" Okiya confirmed. \"I entertained a silk merchant and his clients. They left about an hour before midnight.\"\n\n\"And you?\" Hiro asked Riko.\n\n\"I had a very early night. Magistrate Ishimaki fell asleep in his tea before the sun went down. His servants had to help him onto his horse.\"\n\n\"Magistrate Ishimaki was here last night?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Yes. He visits once a week, for dinner.\" Riko's eyebrows raised and her mouth formed a circle of surprise. She raised her hand to cover it and giggled. \"But it's not what you think. He's much too old for a girl my age.\"\n\nHiro doubted most men would consider her age an issue but said nothing. Riko gave Okiya a questioning look." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include \"I am, though I thank you in advance for your discretion.\" somewhere in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The older woman nodded.\n\n\"Magistrate Ishimaki is my grandfather,\" Riko said. \"His son was my mother's patron.\"\n\n\"Is Mayuri your mother?\" Hiro asked.\n\nEntertainers often bore children out of wedlock. Most men would not flaunt tradition to marry a mistress, so the female children normally followed their mothers into the trade.\n\n\"No,\" Okiya said. \"I am, though I thank you in advance for your discretion.\"\n\nHiro hid his surprise. Okiya did look older than her companions, but not old enough to have a daughter Riko's age.\n\n\"Of course.\" After a pause he asked, \"Did you see the magistrate too?\"\n\nShe shook her head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He doesn't dislike me, but I am not his blood. Truthfully, even his interest in Riko came as a surprise.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Does he acknowledge her publicly?\"\n\n\"Oh, no.\" Riko sounded shocked. \"He couldn't possibly. I'm glad to know him, though. He's nice.\"\n\nHiro turned to Yoko. \"Who were your visitors?\"\n\n\"Only one,\" Yoko said, \"a merchant. I had never seen him before.\"\n\n\"Do you remember his name?\"\n\n\"I didn't need to,\" Yoko said. \"He was visiting Kyoto on business from out of town and only staying for one day.\"\n\n\"What kind of business?\"\n\n\"Rice.\" Yoko made a face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It was all he talked about. He was boring and he stayed too late. By the time I got upstairs Riko was asleep.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did he mention where he came from?\"\n\nYoko thought hard. It was clearly an effort. \"Nagoya? I think Nagoya. He didn't like that we didn't have red miso for his soup.\"\n\n\"Did he pay in advance?\"\n\nYoko nodded. \"He gave me a gold koban and told me I could buy myself a present.\"\n\nA night's entertainment cost only a small fraction of that, even in an upscale teahouse.\n\n\"He paid in gold?\" Hiro asked.\n\nKyoto merchants used silver.\n\n\"Yes.\" Yoko's eyes grew round as she realized the implication. \"You don't think... did I entertain the murderer? The ghost is going to haunt me after all!\"\n\nShe clutched herself and looked about to cry." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't worry,\" Hiro said. \"Ghosts don't like teahouses much.\"\n\n\"They don't?\"\n\nHe shook his head. He didn't care about the girl's emotional state, but it embarrassed him when women cried and he hated interruptions.\n\n\"Do any of you know her visitor's name?\"\n\n\"Shutaro,\" Okiya said. \"He arrived before my visitors, and I heard the introductions.\"\n\nHe stood up. \"Thank you for speaking with me. I appreciate your time.\"\n\nOkiya hung back as the others left the room. When they had gone she said, \"Shutaro was actually the last guest to leave—aside from Hideyoshi, of course.\"\n\n\"He claimed to come from Nagoya?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Okiya nodded Hiro continued." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 7 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Lord Oda Nobunaga controls Owari Province, including Nagoya, and Lord Oda wants the shogunate for himself. He wouldn't let his merchants sell rice to Kyoto.\"\n\nThe woman nodded. \"It sounded strange to me, too. That's why I remembered.\"\n\n\"Thank you,\" Hiro said. \"I know you breached etiquette by telling me.\"\n\n\"Justice excuses a breach of etiquette.\" Okiya lowered her voice. \"Thank me by finding the killer. I don't know what happened here last night, but Sayuri did not murder anyone. She does not deserve to be executed for someone else's crime.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Write three sentences sentences in the style of Susan Spann spawning from what the user wrote. Note: Characters and worldbuilding may appear mid-story." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After Okiya left, Hiro crossed the teahouse and entered Sayuri's room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo knelt near the tokonoma with his back to the door. Sayuri faced him. Their heads were bowed in prayer.\n\nA shamisen sat on the floor at Sayuri's side." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The instrument had a stringed neck about the length of a man's arm, attached to a rounded body covered with animal skin." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The skin was stretched taut like the cover of a drum, and three silk strings ran from pegs at the head of the instrument to a single anchor peg attached to the base of the body.\n\nThe shamisen took years to play badly and much longer to play well. Only women with genuine talent trained in the difficult instrument." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro knelt beside Father Mateo. When the priest said, \"Amen,\" Sayuri looked up.\n\nHiro nodded toward the shamisen. \"Do you play?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"A little.\" The confidence in her voice negated her socially mandated humility.\n\n\"Would you play something now?\"\n\nSayuri picked up the shamisen." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She cradled its neck in her left hand and settled its body against her right knee. When the position suited her, she picked up the ivory plectrum and strummed the strings.\n\nShe played right-handed, in the standard style, and exceptionally well." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro recognized the haunting lullaby." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His mother had played it often, and equally well, though he doubted Sayuri's shamisen pick had a blade concealed in its sheath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When the final note died away Sayuri set the instrument on the floor as if lowering a sleeping child." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro felt a pang of regret." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For a moment, the music had taken him back to Iga." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you,\" he said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did Okiya and the others hear anything?\" she asked. \"Mayuri said no, but I hoped...\"\n\n\"They heard no intruders,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The door whispered open. Mayuri knelt at the threshold.\n\n\"Have you finished?\" she asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo stood up." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro suppressed a desire to bait the woman by asking to remain. He didn't dislike her exactly, but he never liked acceding to rude requests.\n\n\"Have faith,\" Father Mateo told Sayuri." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"God will protect you and we will find the killer.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She nodded. \"I will pray.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As they left the room, Hiro leaned toward Father Mateo and whispered, \"You need to use the latrine.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I do not.\" Father Mateo blushed.\n\nAs usual, Hiro found the reaction amusing. He had never understood the Jesuit's shyness about discussing bodily functions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He raised his voice. \"Mayuri, Father Mateo needs to visit the latrine.\"\n\nThe priest turned a brilliant shade of red." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His mouth opened and closed like one of his beloved koi.\n\nMayuri inclined her head and looked from one man to the other. \"Did you say he needs to use the latrine?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Urgently,\" Hiro said.\n\nThe woman and the priest exchanged a stare. Hiro didn't mind embarrassing Father Mateo, and he knew Mayuri could not refuse the request." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'storeroom' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After a very long moment Mayuri nodded. \"Follow me.\"\n\nShe led the men through the family room and into the narrow four-mat storeroom beyond. A hallway led off the east side of the storeroom, and at the far end of the hall a wooden staircase led to the second floor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mayuri gestured to the sliding doors in the north wall of the storeroom." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The latrine is outside—the building on the left.\" She paused. \"You will forgive me if I do not escort you there.\"\n\n\"Of course,\" Hiro said. \"Thank you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As he stepped across the room and opened the door, he wondered what lay beyond the sliding door in the storeroom's western wall. Another storage room, or perhaps a private office.\n\nHiro waited for Father Mateo to step onto the veranda, then followed him out and closed the door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Three wide steps led down to the narrow yard, where a forked gravel path connected the teahouse to a pair of outbuildings. The latrine stood about forty feet from the house on the left-hand side of the yard. Hiro had seen it from the veranda earlier." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A second, larger building stood ahead and to the right. It had a thatched roof, wooden sides, and two entrances, one at the end of the gravel path and a slightly smaller one on the opposite end. A worn track in the grass led to the smaller door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Slatted screens covered the three narrow windows below the eaves, allowing light to enter but obscuring the interior from view. The design suggested a bathhouse, and the woodpile outside the smaller door confirmed it.\n\nHiro felt a twinge of jealousy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Like most residents of Kyoto he bathed several times a week, and like most people he used the public baths. Only the very wealthy could afford a private bathhouse, and the Sakura's looked particularly fine.\n\nAt his side, Father Mateo hissed, \"I do not have to use the latrine!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Fake it.\" Hiro pointed at the left-hand building." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I need at least five minutes.\"\n\n\"What are you doing?\"\n\n\"No time.\" Hiro hurried down the stairs and across the yard to the bathhouse." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he reached the smaller door he glanced over his shoulder." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He noted with satisfaction that Father Mateo had started toward the latrine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro grasped the wooden handle and pulled open the swinging door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As he suspected, it led to the fire room adjacent to the larger bathing chamber. A large wood-burning stove dominated the tiny room. It was square and made from whitewashed bricks of clay, though dust and ash had darkened its sides to gray." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A large iron cauldron sat atop the stove, and iron pipes ran from the cauldron to the wall, funneling steam and hot water directly into the bathing room beyond." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro was impressed. The setup was far more efficient than some of the older bathhouses he frequented, where servants carried hot water from the stoves to the baths.\n\nThe iron door on the front of the stove was warm but not hot to the touch, and its slatted grate was closed. Hiro grasped the handle and opened the oven door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Coals glowed in the belly of the stove, though the flames had died away. They flared red for a moment when fresh air swirled in through the door, but faded almost at once. A pile of ash at the center of the stove supported some half-burned objects that looked like ledger books—exactly as Hiro expected." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sheets of delicate ash fanned out from the half-burned spines." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Someone had thrown the books into the fire but hadn't stayed to ensure that they burned completely." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The bottom books were destroyed but the top one had escaped the worst of the flames. The heavy covers and dense pages kept the fire from breathing and the closed oven grating had not allowed enough air for proper combustion.\n\nA practiced tender would have left the grate open, but Hiro suspected Mayuri had little experience with fires and even less with destroying evidence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He picked up the tongs and removed the half-burned book from the top of the pile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The fan of ashy pages beneath collapsed with a whisper like feet on snow. It blew a wave of heat from the stove and made the embers glow red again for a moment.\n\nHiro tapped the book but found it too hot to hold so he turned the tongs to examine the other side." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The cover was cracked and black with soot, and the edges of the pages had burned away, but the interior pages seemed mostly intact." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As soon as the book had cooled enough for handling, Hiro lifted the cover. Heat had destroyed or obscured the ink on almost all the entries. The few pages that still showed visible writing seemed close to illegible." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's work on this story segment. I'll provide a part, and you'll continue with six sentences in the style of Susan Spann. This is mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre and characters might appear without introduction." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did you find what you were looking for?\" Father Mateo asked. \"And why on earth did you ask where to find Nobuhide? He's the last person I thought you would want to see.\"\n\nThey walked north along the west bank of the Kamo River. Two-story houses and merchant shops crowded the path.\n\n\"Because we're going to see him,\" Hiro said. \"Right now.\"\n\n\"Now? Why?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hideyoshi's killer might try to kill Nobuhide too,\" Hiro said, \"and he deserves a warning.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How did you...\" Father Mateo's eyes widened. \"You said the other women heard nothing.\"\n\n\"I said they heard no intruders,\" Hiro said. \"They may have entertained an assassin without knowing it.\"\n\n\"Why warn Nobuhide?\" Father Mateo asked. \"Do you really think he's in danger?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Possibly,\" Hiro said. \"Until we know for certain, we can't assume anything.\"\n\nFather Mateo stopped in the middle of the path. Hiro took two more steps before he realized the Jesuit wasn't following.\n\n\"What's wrong?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"You don't normally show such regard for your enemies.\"\n\n\"Nobuhide is not my friend, but he's not my enemy, either. Arrogance is not a capital crime. It's hardly fair to condemn a man based on his reaction to his father's mutilated corpse.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro gave the priest a sideways glance." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Ensure 'southeast' appears 2 time(s) in your answer" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Isn't that what you would say?\"\n\n\"Close enough,\" Father Mateo said. \"But why are you concerned for his safety now? What did you learn at the teahouse?\"\n\n\"Do you know the name Oda Nobunaga?\" Hiro asked.\n\nThey had reached Marutamachi Road, but instead of turning right, toward home, Hiro made a left into one of the expensive residential wards that lay southeast of the shogun's fortress and the imperial palace.\n\n\"Lord Oda controls Owari Province, to the southeast.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo thought a moment and added, \"He's a retainer of the shogun, isn't he?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'daimyo' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Nominally, yes,\" Hiro said, \"like all the other daimyo, but some people think Lord Oda plans to kill Ashikaga Yoshiteru and claim the shogunate for himself.\"\n\n\"Can he do that?\" The Jesuit sounded surprised. \"Doesn't the emperor pick the shogun?\"\n\nHiro laughed. \"The emperor says so, and the shogun doesn't dispute it in public, but in reality the shogun rules by strength alone. If another daimyo seized Kyoto, the emperor would appoint him shogun in Yoshiteru's place.\"\n\n\"What does that have to do with Nobuhide?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A stranger visited the teahouse last night." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He claimed to be a rice merchant from Nagoya, which lies in Owari Province.\n\n\"If the man who killed Hideyoshi acted at Lord Oda's command, this murder could represent the start of an attack on the shogun's retainers and their families. To weaken the shogun's support.\n\n\"It's what I would do if I wanted to seize the shogunate.\"\n\n\"But Hideyoshi was retired.\"\n\n\"A perfect test of the shogun's vigilance. Assassinate a retired general and his family, and see if anyone notices.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro paused outside the door of a large wooden house with a peaked roof and sprawling veranda surrounded by well-kept gardens. A latrine and storehouse were just visible at the back of the yard, along with a larger building that looked like a stable. Hoof prints marked the worn dirt track that ran along the outer edge of the property, and a gravel path led from the street to the door.\n\nTrees dotted the property, but someone had trimmed all the branches so nothing grew within four feet of the sloping roof. Pruning scars suggested they had been kept that way for some time. Someone was very cautious, and also ignorant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Four feet might stop the average man, but trained shinobi could jump at least twice that far, even from the branches of a tree.\n\nFather Mateo looked at the house. \"I thought yoriki lived at the police barracks.\"\n\n\"Most of them do,\" Hiro said. \"The dōshin said Nobuhide had permission to live at his father's home.\"\n\nAs Hiro approached the house he caught a whiff of cedar." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Only the wealthy built houses of cedar instead of the less-expensive pine.\n\nThe carved front door swung open as they approached.\n\nNobuhide scowled at them from the doorway. \"What do you want?\"\n\nHiro and Father Mateo bowed. Nobuhide didn't return it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What are you doing here?\" he demanded. \"This is a house of mourning!\"\n\nA second samurai appeared in the doorway.\n\nHe was older than Nobuhide, and slightly taller. They shared the same slender build and narrow features, though the newcomer had no mustache. He wore a blue-gray kimono emblazoned with the Akechi crest and a pair of swords stuck through a dark gray girdle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When he bowed, Hiro noticed strands of silver in his hair.\n\nSomething about the newcomer looked odd, but Hiro couldn't place it.\n\n\"May I help you?\" the stranger asked.\n\nAs the samurai spoke, Hiro realized why the man seemed strange.\n\nThe traditional samurai topknot, or chonmage, required shaving the forehead and pulling the remaining hair into a tail atop the head. The hair was folded over, sometimes more than once, and fastened with a band just behind the shaven area." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This samurai didn't have a shaven pate." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He also had a melodic voice, and Hiro suddenly recognized that the newcomer was a woman, though dressed in a masculine style.\n\nHiro bowed again. \"We have come to offer condolences and a caution—Akechi Hideyoshi's assassin may have reason to target the rest of the family too.\"\n\nNobuhide's eyes narrowed. \"We do not want your condolences. Go away!\"\n\n\"Nobuhide!\" The woman's voice held more than a hint of warning.\n\n\"No foreign ghost will desecrate my father's corpse!\" Nobuhide blocked the doorway and laid his hand on the hilt of his katana." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I forbid you to enter my home!\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 7 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Fortunately, it is not yet your home.\" The woman turned to face the visitors and bowed. \"I am Akechi Yoshiko, eldest child of Akechi Hideyoshi. Please come inside.\"\n\nNobuhide did not move.\n\nYoshiko stepped forward until she stood directly behind her brother, with her mouth only inches from his ear. Her lips barely moved as she whispered, \"Do not make me embarrass you in front of strangers.\"\n\nNobuhide tensed as if preparing for a fight." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Literary Collaboration:\n- Sentences: 12 sentences\n- Match character context\n- Genre: mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage target: 'sandals' must be used 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The moment passed. Nobuhide removed his hand from his sword.\n\n\"I was going out anyway,\" he said. \"Make sure they are gone when I return.\"\n\nHe slipped his sock-clad feet into a pair of sandals that sat beside the door and stalked off in the direction of the stable.\n\nNobuhide's shoulder brushed Hiro as he passed. On any other day the insult would have required a fight, but Hiro chose to ignore it. If Nobuhide wanted a confrontation he could have one, in two days' time. Until then Hiro was focused on the killer.\n\nThree more pairs of sandals sat beside the door with their toes pointed neatly toward the house. The smallest looked barely large enough for a school-age child. The pair beside them was covered in drying mud. The sandals closest to the door were made of straw and falling apart from age." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At least three people remained in the house." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yoshiko bowed. \"I apologize for my brother. He is devastated by our father's death.\"\n\n\"You are not?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Of course, but rudeness dishonors his memory more than tears.\"\n\nFather Mateo bowed. \"I am Father Mateo Ávila de Santos, and this is Matsui Hiro, my translator. We are trying to find the man responsible for your father's death.\"\n\nThe hint of a smile flashed over Yoshiko's face. It vanished just as quickly. \"Yes. Nobuhide mentioned you. Please come inside.\"\n\nThe men removed their shoes and stepped up into the house. Yoshiko led them through the entry and into the large central room beyond. The square room had a high ceiling and tatami on the floor, like the common room in Father Mateo's home, except that this oe measured thirteen mats in size. The scent of lingering woodsmoke dulled the odor of cedar emanating from the pillars and beams. A tokonoma in the southern wall, opposite the entrance, displayed a landscape scroll in shades of black and gray." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sliding doors separated the room from five adjacent chambers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "All but one of the doors was closed, but the door beside the tokonoma was open, revealing a second, smaller common room beyond." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yoshiko walked to the host's seat at the south end of the hearth. As she knelt, she gestured for the guests to join her.\n\nHiro and Father Mateo knelt to her right, with their backs to the eastern wall.\n\n\"Under the circumstances,\" Yoshiko said, \"you will forgive me for dispensing with formalities.\"\n\nShe waited for them to nod assent before continuing. \"You mentioned a warning, but Nobuhide claims to have the killer under guard. Please explain.\"\n\nTo Hiro's surprise, she looked at Father Mateo for the answer.\n\nFew samurai treated the priest with such respect, despite the fact that the Jesuit had a samurai as his translator.\n\n\"We do not believe Sayuri... the entertainer...\" Father Mateo paused as if uncertain what to say.\n\nHiro didn't share the Jesuit's concern for delicacy, particularly with a woman who looked and acted so thoroughly like a man.\n\n\"The girl may not be responsible,\" Hiro said, \"or at least not entirely. A man claiming to be from Nagoya visited the Sakura Teahouse last night.\"\n\nHe paused to see if Yoshiko caught the reference and understood the threat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her eyebrows drew together." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Lord Oda has no reason to kill my father.\"\n\n\"We think he may be planning an attack on the shogunate,\" Father Mateo said.\n\nYoshiko's face became a mask.\n\nHiro sat very still. He didn't trust himself to move, or even blink, without revealing his frustration with the priest. Yoshiko hadn't asked the expected questions—what the stranger did, or if he was a samurai—but the Jesuit's comment had put her on guard before she could explain her reaction, and she seemed disinclined to say anything more.\n\n\"If so,\" the priest continued, \"the assassin might try to kill your brother too.\"\n\n\"Nobuhide?\" Yoshiko's eyes crinkled with restrained laughter. Her smile faded almost immediately but her amusement remained. \"Yoriki can't even enter the shogun's presence, and they're never promoted to any higher position. You do not kill a flea to scare a dog.\"\n\n\"It could be a test of the shogun's vigilance,\" Father Mateo said. \"Your whole family could be in danger.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Such a test would not extend to a powerless son and an aged wife.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yoshiko didn't look concerned. \"Still, I will take precautions. Thank you for the warning.\"\n\nHiro wasn't quite ready to leave. The priest had ruined his chance of obtaining much information from Yoshiko, but the house itself might contain other useful clues. \"May we pay our respects to your father?\"\n\nYoshiko looked surprised.\n\n\"Father Mateo's religion has special prayers for the dead.\" Hiro doubted the woman had ever met a Christian, but he gambled that she would abide by the samurai code of hospitality, which required respect for all faiths. \"He did not have opportunity or permission to say them earlier but would like to do so now.\"\n\nYoshiko stood up. \"Very well, my father lies this way.\"\n\nShe led them to a sliding door in the eastern wall and opened it without kneeling. The six-mat room beyond had latticed doors on three sides and white tatami on the floor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Cedar panels covered the wall opposite the entrance, and weapons of every size and description hung from hooks embedded in the planks." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro counted no less than twenty swords—roughly split between long katana and the shorter wakizashi." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A pair of halberds hung near the ceiling, just out of reach, though Hiro doubted they ever saw much use. Only monks used naginata regularly.\n\nThree unstrung bows, a dozen daggers of various sizes, and several tessen, or bladed fighting fans, hung between the swords. An arquebus perched at eye level in the center of the wall. Based on its polished, pristine appearance the weapon had never been fired.\n\nEmpty hooks suggested a pair of missing swords, one large and one small. Hiro had no trouble finding them. They lay in the wooden coffin on the floor.\n\nAkechi Hideyoshi lay faceup in a cedar box with his hands folded over the hilt of his katana. His wakizashi was sheathed at his side. The body had been dressed in a lamellar breastplate and decorative armor with white lacing that stood out brightly against the new, dark leather and metal fittings. Even if Hiro hadn't known that white odoshi was only used for the dead, the smell of fresh leather and untarnished metal plates would have told him the armor was purchased specifically for the dead man's funeral." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hideyoshi's topknot emerged from a hole at the peak of his helmet and lay across his shoulder, brushed and oiled until it gleamed like silk." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The dark oil almost concealed the gray in his hair. A scowling mempo mask covered his face and hid the wounds in his neck.\n\nAlthough Hiro had hoped for a second glance at the wounds, he appreciated the care and respect inherent in the arrangement of the body. Hideyoshi almost looked as if he died of natural causes.\n\nHiro wondered who had prepared the body for burial or, more likely, for cremation. The careful arrangement of the hair suggested a man, but only a woman would have dressed the body in new ceremonial armor instead of the set Hideyoshi had worn in life.\n\nThe samurai's real armor hung on a wooden dummy in the corner of the room. The scuffed leather plates showed years of use, and the dark-blue odoshi lacing was stained and frayed at the ends. That set, not the new one, would have been Hideyoshi's choice.\n\nFather Mateo approached the corpse and bowed to show respect. As he clasped his hands in prayer, Yoshiko backed away and disappeared. Hiro wondered what prayers a Christian priest could say for the soul of a dead man who did not share his faith and whether Father Mateo was really praying or merely feigning to give Hiro an opportunity to look around the room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In addition to the unusual display, a tokonoma in the southern wall held a large tessen with elaborate paper panels at both ends. When folded, the paper and wooden ribs concealed the row of shining blades that transformed the delicate fan into a vicious concealed weapon.\n\nA semicircle of wooden pegs sat in front of the fan. Each peg held a small leather sheath with a metal blade protruding from the tip. The bladed sheaths slipped over a person's fingertip and first knuckle to imitate the claws of a giant cat. Female shinobi, also known as kunoichi, considered the claws a weapon of choice, but neko-te were extremely rare and never put on display. Hiro had not seen any since leaving Iga, though three parallel scars on his shoulder and four more on his upper leg gave him more than passing familiarity with the weapon and its use.\n\nThe memory of Hideyoshi's mutilated body flashed through Hiro's mind. Neko-te usually inflicted stabbing wounds, but the sharpened claws could also rip and slice, particularly when assassins stood above or behind the victim.\n\nHiro stepped to the tokonoma for a closer look.\n\nSix of the ten claws sat askew on their pegs, and one had something wrong with its blade. It looked as if someone had replaced the claw with a piece of a broken dagger, and the blade was only lightly attached to the sheath." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It might not even be attached at all." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro couldn't tell without touching the blade.\n\nAs he stifled the urge to reach out and examine what appeared to be the murder weapon, a female voice behind him said, \"You have seen neko-te before.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's work on this story segment. I'll provide a part, and you'll continue with six sentences in the style of Susan Spann. This is mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre and characters might appear without introduction." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yoshiko stood in the doorway.\n\nHiro turned his head and straightened, grateful for the instinct that stayed his hand.\n\n\"No.\" Father Mateo walked to the tokonoma and pointed at the fan. \"Is that the proper name? I thought it was called tessen.\"\n\nYoshiko joined them at the alcove. \"I meant the little blades. Assassins wear them like claws.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She raised a hand and hooked her fingers. \"These belonged to a kunoichi who attempted to assassinate the shogun shortly after he came to power, almost twenty years ago. My father learned of the plot and killed her. The shogun gave him the weapon as a prize.\"\n\nFather Mateo pointed to the claw with the strange-looking blade. \"That one looks broken. Did it happen in the fight?\"\n\n\"No.\" Yoshiko blushed. \"That happened later.\"\n\n\"Recently?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Many years ago.\" She smiled in memory." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I was playing, and disobeying, as children do.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"She sneaked the weapon out and caught a blade in a tree,\" said another voice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro turned. A miniscule woman stood in the doorway. Her head barely reached her daughter's shoulder, and her hands looked as small and delicate as a child's. Her white hair framed a face that reminded Hiro of a dying blossom, once beautiful but wrinkled and dried with age. A black kimono and obi enhanced her fragility, though her straight back and quick-moving eyes revealed both intelligence and strength. The hem of her inner kimono peeked out from beneath the outer one, in customary style. That kimono, too, was black." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro and Father Mateo bowed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The woman bowed in turn. As she rose, she tucked a necklace back inside her kimono, but not before Hiro noticed the tiny silver ornament at the end.\n\nYoshiko extended a hand. \"Mother, these men are Father Mateo and his translator, Matsui Hiro, the men of whom Nobuhide spoke.\" She paused. \"My mother, Akechi Sato.\"\n\nSato reminded Hiro of his own grandmother, down to the possibility of a dagger in her sleeve." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The widow's delicate appearance seemed too carefully cultivated for truth, though he suspected she used it more for self-defense than for deception." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word frequency rule: 'husband' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I replaced the broken claw with a piece of dagger,\" Sato said. \"You have good eyes. My husband didn't notice it for years.\"\n\nOr pretended not to, Hiro thought, though that truth no longer mattered.\n\n\"Thank you for honoring my husband,\" the elderly woman continued, \"I am grateful for your prayers. They bring me comfort.\"\n\n\"I apologize for disturbing you,\" the Jesuit said.\n\nSato shook her head." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I hoped you would come so I could thank you. I mourn my husband's death, but I do not want an innocent girl to die if she is not to blame.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you know anyone who would want to hurt your husband?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He had no enemies.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sato looked past them at the body. \"He didn't even have many relatives. He served the shogun honorably until his retirement five years ago.\"\n\n\"And since then?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"The shogun granted him a stipend, ten koku a year.\"\n\n\"Koku?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\nHiro wondered at the question." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The priest already knew that word." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word usage requirement: 'samurai' must appear 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"One koku is the amount of rice that will feed a person for one year,\" Yoshiko explained. \"It is the measure by which samurai salaries are calculated.\"\n\nFather Mateo nodded as though learning something new. Then he asked, \"Will you keep the koku, now that your husband has died?\"\n\nThe inquiry suddenly made sense. Samurai didn't talk about money, but ignorant foreigners could, at least under the guise of education." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro was impressed. Perhaps the priest had become more Japanese than the shinobi gave him credit for.\n\n\"I don't know,\" Sato replied. \"It will depend on the shogun.\"\n\n\"I'm afraid I must ask an indelicate question,\" Father Mateo said. \"Were you both... home last night?\"\n\n\"Yes,\" Sato said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I went for a ride in the early evening,\" Yoshiko corrected gently." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But you came home before dark, and we went to sleep early.\" Sato raised her chin. \"Despite her unusual appearance, my daughter knows how to behave.\"\n\nHiro wondered if the slight emphasis on \"daughter\" was intentional or merely coincidental.\n\nHe bowed. \"Thank you for your courtesy. We have bothered you long enough in your day of mourning.\"\n\nThey exchanged bows again and Yoshiko escorted them to the door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Can you think of anything else we should know?\" Father Mateo asked as they slipped their sandals on. \"Anything at all that might help us find your father's killer?\"\n\n\"No,\" Yoshiko said. \"He was a retired samurai with little income and no political connections. His only relative was his brother, Hidetaro, who depended on Father's income to survive. I am glad you care about the truth, but in the end I think you will find Nobuhide is right. The girl is to blame.\"\n\nFather Mateo said nothing until they reached the road. Then he turned to Hiro and said, \"Well, I'm more confused now than when we started.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should naturally weave in this dialogue: \"now we have at least three.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Puzzles often grow more complicated as you solve them,\" Hiro said.\n\n\"Are we solving this one? I'm not sure.\"\n\n\"Five hours ago we had no suspects,\" Hiro said, \"now we have at least three.\"\n\n\"Which three?\"\n\n\"The merchant from Nagoya, Mayuri, and Akechi Hidetaro.\"\n\n\"The merchant I understand,\" the Jesuit said, \"but why the others?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Find a natural way to mention that I didn't have time to study them in the bathhouse." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Mayuri burned her ledgers this morning. I retrieved some pages from the bathhouse fire.\"\n\n\"Is that why you made me use the latrine? And what made you look there? Why not in the kitchen stove?\"\n\n\"A teahouse kitchen is too public—too much chance that someone would see her do it.\"\n\n\"What do the pages say?\"\n\nHiro raised an eyebrow. \"I didn't have time to study them in the bathhouse.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If not, why consider her a suspect?\"\n\n\"She owns the teahouse where Hideyoshi was murdered. She burned her records the morning after his death. She prevented the other women from helping when Sayuri screamed, and she's too nervous to leave us alone with Sayuri for any length of time. Those reasons are sufficient even without the pages.\"\n\n\"Why Hidetaro, though? Nobody considers him a threat, and he depended upon Hideyoshi for his livelihood.\"\n\n\"Did you see Sayuri's eyes light up at the mention of his name?\" Hiro asked. \"That's enough to keep him on the list, at least until we talk with him in person.\n\n\"And from now on, let me do the talking. Yoshiko might have said something useful if you hadn't given everything away.\"\n\n\"I thought we went to warn her. You never said you suspected her of anything.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo frowned. \"I came to Kyoto to help people find the truth. I cannot fulfill that mission in silence.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"As I can't fulfill mine if you get yourself killed,\" Hiro countered." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 7 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You must not assume that anyone is innocent.\"\n\n\"She's Hideyoshi's daughter!\"\n\n\"The fact that she shares his blood does not bar her from spilling it,\" Hiro said, \"though I agree that an assassin seems more likely.\"\n\n\"Do you think we can find the man from Nagoya?\" Father Mateo asked. \"He may have left the city in the night.\"\n\n\"More likely early this morning,\" Hiro said. \"We need to talk with Luis.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Cooperative storytelling\nContext: May include established characters/lore without introduction\nMy role: Provide a brief opening\nYour role: Expand upon my opening with 10 sentences, emulating the writing style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A samurai paced the road in front of the Jesuit's house as though trying to summon the courage to knock on the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He walked with a minor limp, perhaps from a long-healed wound to a thigh or knee." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Drying mud stained the hem of his faded blue robe and clung to the edges of his sandals. His tabi socks, though clean that morning, already showed transfer stains.\n\nBy contrast, his topknot was freshly oiled, with every hair in place.\n\nHe turned at the sound of Hiro's and Father Mateo's approaching footsteps. Hiro didn't recognize the stranger's face, but the five-petaled bellflower mon on the man's kimono symbolized the Akechi clan.\n\nThe samurai bowed as they reached him. Several days' stubble dotted his shaven pate.\n\n\"Are you the foreign priest?\" he asked, \"Matto-san?\"\n\n\"I am Father Mateo,\" the Jesuit said as he returned the bow, \"and this is my interpreter, Matsui Hiro. May we help you?\"\n\n\"I am Akechi Hidetaro. Hideyoshi was my brother.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo waited for the stranger to continue." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro said nothing.\n\nSilence hung in the air and the pause grew awkward.\n\n\"Invite him inside,\" Hiro said in Portuguese. \"Samurai do not talk in the street like merchants.\"\n\n\"Please come in,\" the Jesuit said. \"May we offer you tea?\"\n\nA relieved smile lit Hidetaro's face. \"Yes, thank you.\"\n\nAna was cleaning the floor when the three men entered the house. When she saw the visitor she sprang to her feet and scurried toward the kitchen without a word.\n\nFather Mateo escorted the visitor to the hearth." }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must include the following in quotes somewhere in your response: He even speaks a little Japanese." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro followed them, noting the way Hidetaro raised his right leg carefully to ensure that his foot didn't drag against the tatami. Even so, his right sock made a whispering sound as it moved across the floor.\n\nThe men had barely seated themselves around the hearth when Ana returned with tea and a plate of sweet rice balls. She set down the refreshments and returned to the kitchen, pausing just long enough to scoop up the curious kitten that had poked its nose from Hiro's room.\n\nHidetaro looked around as he sipped his tea. \"This looks almost like a Japanese home.\" He looked at Hiro. \"Can foreigners live like Japanese?\"\n\n\"Father Mateo does,\" Hiro said. \"He even speaks a little Japanese.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hidetaro took the hint." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Can you drink tea?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "he asked the priest. \"What about Japanese food? Can your stomach handle it?\"\n\nFather Mateo smiled. \"Yes, in fact I prefer Japanese food.\"\n\nIt was not the first time he had heard the question or seen the surprised reaction to his response.\n\n\"Really?\" Hidetaro asked. \"I have never met a foreigner before.\"\n\n\"There are only a few of us in Kyoto,\" Father Mateo said, \"though my superiors hope to build a permanent temple soon.\"\n\nHiro noted the substitution of \"temple\" for \"church,\" a deliberate choice on Father Mateo's part, and one the shinobi had not taught him, though Hiro approved of it more each time he heard it. Kyoto had hundreds of temples dedicated to many deities. One more caused neither confusion nor concern." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That would be very nice,\" Hidetaro said politely." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Every god should have a temple.\"\n\nThey sipped their tea. Hidetaro sampled a rice ball and made a surprised sound. \"These are good!\"\n\nThe compliment seemed genuine but the comment sounded forced. Hiro suspected Hidetaro wanted to explain the point of his visit, though convention prevented him from speaking directly until the host invited him to do so.\n\nHiro raised his eyebrows at Father Mateo.\n\n\"My condolences on your brother's death,\" the Jesuit said. \"Can I do anything to help you in this difficult time?\"\n\nHiro noted with approval that the priest didn't ask why Hidetaro had come, or how the samurai learned about their involvement in the murder. He was learning subtlety after all." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required dialogue to include (maintain exact wording): \"Sayuri is not responsible for Hideyoshi's death.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro looked at Hiro, \"Can I trust the foreigner's discretion?\"\n\n\"His religion forbids repetition of information told in confidence,\" Hiro said. \"If he reveals a secret, his god will banish him to the Hell of Everburning Flames forever.\"\n\nHidetaro leaned back and blinked in surprise at the mention of eternity. Buddhist hells were only temporary. After a brief pause he blurted out, \"Sayuri is not responsible for Hideyoshi's death.\"\n\nHiro gave him a sideways look. \"Why do you say that?\"\n\nHidetaro's gaze flickered to the hearth and back. \"I just know. She would not kill him.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Was she in love with him?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro watched Hidetaro's reaction carefully.\n\n\"No.\" The samurai's face revealed nothing. His posture did not change.\n\n\"She entertained him often,\" Hiro said. \"Perhaps she was.\"\n\n\"No,\" Hidetaro repeated. He seemed to be struggling with something.\n\nJust before Hiro asked another pressing question Hidetaro said, \"I am the one she loves. In fact, I had made arrangements to buy her contract and marry her.\"\n\nHidetaro's words sounded genuine and he met Hiro's eyes when he spoke, but his shabby clothes and aging face made the claim improbable at best. Hiro saw another problem too, but etiquette didn't allow him to broach that subject.\n\n\"Hideyoshi didn't mind?\" Father Mateo asked. \"After all, he visited her often.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro almost choked on his tea." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include \"No more than I minded his visits to her,\" somewhere in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was precisely the question he never would have asked. He wondered whether the Jesuit was relying on his foreignness to excuse the indelicate question or whether the priest was really so socially ignorant. He suspected the former, but a glance at the priest revealed nothing. As always, Father Mateo's face wore a pleasant and honest smile.\n\n\"No more than I minded his visits to her,\" Hidetaro said.\n\nThe ambiguous response was worthy of a shinobi. Hiro hadn't expected such facility from a samurai.\n\n\"Hideyoshi enjoyed Sayuri's company,\" Hidetaro continued, \"but he wanted me to buy her contract. He thought she deserved a better life than a teahouse.\"\n\n\"He didn't mind his brother marrying an entertainer?\" Hiro asked. Samurai honor forbade most marriages to people outside the samurai class." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro shifted slightly. \"Until a few months ago, I wanted to become a Buddhist monk. In Yoshi's eyes, any marriage was preferable to that.\"\n\nSamurai did not discuss family issues in public. The hint alone ended the conversation and made the ensuing silence awkward.\n\nAt last, Father Mateo said, \"His death must have come as a terrible shock.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" Hidetaro said. \"I learned of it this morning, at the teahouse. Mayuri would not take my payment. She said she could not accept it because Nobuhide intends to execute Sayuri. She also told me about your investigation and that you hoped to prove Sayuri innocent.\"\n\n\"Did you see Sayuri?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"No. Mayuri would not allow it.\"\n\n\"When was the last time you saw her?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"A week ago, or possibly more. I can't afford teahouses—that is, I have to save my money for her contract. You must prove her innocent. She did not do this.\"\n\n\"We will do our best,\" Father Mateo said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro stood up. He moved slowly, as though his injured leg still hurt a little. \"Thank you for the tea.\"\n\nHiro escorted the guest to the door. As they reached the entrance Hidetaro said, \"This foreigner is a good man, I think. Do you find it strange to serve him?\"\n\n\"He is a man, with good qualities and bad ones, like any other,\" Hiro said as Hidetaro slipped on his muddy sandals.\n\nHiro nodded at the shoes. \"Last night's rain created a lot of mud.\"\n\n\"Did it?\" Hidetaro asked. \"I was asleep at home.\"\n\n\"Indeed.\" Hiro bowed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you for honoring us with your visit.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro returned the bow and departed, walking slowly to prevent anyone from noticing his limp.\n\n\"Well, I guess we can take him off the suspect list,\" Father Mateo said as they watched the samurai walk away on the narrow road.\n\n\"Quite the opposite,\" Hiro said. \"He just placed himself firmly on it.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Cooperative storytelling\nContext: May include established characters/lore without introduction\nMy role: Provide a brief opening\nYour role: Expand upon my opening with 10 sentences, emulating the writing style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you really think Hidetaro killed his brother?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\n\"I think he's less than honest,\" Hiro said, \"which merits investigation. Speaking of which—where's Luis?\"\n\n\"Probably napping,\" Father Mateo said. \"I think he finished his business for today.\"\n\n\"Exactly what we need to discuss.\" Hiro walked across the common room and rapped on the paneled door to the merchant's room. \"Luis? Are you awake?\"\n\nHe heard a rustling sound and a groan, followed by footsteps heading for the door. It rattled and Luis's face appeared in the opening. His eyes were misty with sleep and his long hair stood out around his face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"No. What do you want?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required text (preserve exact wording): \"All of my clients are murderers. What Japanese isn't?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Information about the rice merchant you sold weapons to this morning. Was he from Nagoya, by chance?\"\n\nLuis blinked and the sleepy look left his face. \"How did you know that?\"\n\n\"I think you may have done business with a murderer.\"\n\n\"All of my clients are murderers. What Japanese isn't?\"\n\n\"Luis.\" Father Mateo joined them at the door. \"I think I understand what Hiro means. A rice merchant from Nagoya visited the Sakura Teahouse last night. We think he may have murdered Akechi Hideyoshi. If he's the same man you met this morning, you may be able to help us find him.\"\n\nThe door slid open further and Luis stepped into the common room. He wore the same white shirt as earlier and a clean pair of dark-colored breeches. He had taken off his tunic before his nap, and the end of his wrinkled shirt flapped loosely below his rounded belly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro had rarely seen a less flattering costume." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Akechi?\" Luis repeated. \"Is that the dead man's name?\"\n\n\"Yes.\" Father Mateo nodded eagerly. \"Do you know him?\"\n\n\"It might just be a coincidence. These Japanese only have about twenty surnames between them.\"\n\n\"Anything you can tell us might help,\" Father Mateo said.\n\nLuis scratched his chest while he thought. \"A couple of months ago I sold a hundred arquebuses to a samurai named Akechi, but not Hideyoshi. The given name was different. Miso-something, I think. He was passing through Kyoto on his way to join some warlord in the south.\n\n\"The rice merchant from Nagoya mentioned Akechi's name when he contacted me. Apparently they're friends or something. He thought it would get him a discount.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The merchant looked smug." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I raised all the prices by twenty percent and then gave him a ten percent markdown. He never knew the difference.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro ignored his rising frustration and returned to the topic of interest. \"Who introduced the samurai to you? The one from the Akechi clan.\"\n\n\"I don't remember,\" Luis said. \"I know several of the merchants, and most of them make introductions. It's a ridiculous samurai custom anyway, needing to know someone personally before you can do business. Normal people just find what they want and buy it.\"\n\n\"This is important,\" Hiro insisted. \"Who made the introduction?\"\n\nLuis thought for a moment. \"It must have been the tailor, Yaso.\" After a pause he added, \"Definitely Yaso. He set up this morning's meeting too.\"\n\n\"Did either man tell you where he was staying?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro asked. \"Did they have relatives in Kyoto?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Luis sneered and shook his head. \"We only talked about muskets. I could care less about their personal lives.\"\n\n\"Do you have records of the sales?\"\n\n\"I keep detailed ledgers, but you won't find what you're looking for. I list names, but no addresses or other information about the buyer.\"\n\n\"Good enough,\" Hiro said. \"Have you got the ledgers here?\"\n\nLuis turned back to his room and returned a moment later with a ledger, leather-bound in the Portuguese style. He flipped through the pages until he found the transaction he wanted.\n\n\"There.\" He pointed to the page. \"That's the first one, the samurai.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "It took Hiro a moment to find the entry, and not only because it was written in Portuguese." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The lines and columns made no sense until he realized that the merchant organized the pages horizontally, not vertically like a Japanese ledger.\n\nHiro examined the line Luis indicated. Everything except for the customer's name was written in the Portuguese merchant's even script. Hiro found it difficult to read but enjoyed the effort. Despite his irritating nature, Luis had beautiful handwriting.\n\nThe customer's name was far more legible, because that wasn't written by hand. Samurai and many merchants used a carved seal, or inkan, in place of a formal signature. The seals discouraged forgery and eliminated the need to carry a writing brush or ink. When pressed into a paste-like ink and then on a document or page, the seal displayed the characters representing the bearer's name.\n\nThe characters on this one read \"Akechi Mitsuhide.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And the other?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The man you met this morning?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<USAGE LIMIT>>: 'that's' must be used 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The merchant flipped two more leaves and ran his finger down the page until he came to the final entry. \"Well, that's interesting.\"\n\nHe tipped the book toward Hiro and Father Mateo. The column for the customer's seal contained an illegible smudge. \"He must have rushed the impression.\"\n\n\"Or deliberately marred it to obscure his name,\" Hiro said.\n\nLuis shrugged. \"That's going to make it difficult to track him, not that he's still here anyway. He left Kyoto as soon as he picked up his weapons and wanted to start early to get ahead of the traffic on the road. That's why I had to get up at such an abominable hour.\n\n\"Do you think this Akechi is related to your dead samurai?\"\n\n\"It would astonish me to learn otherwise,\" Hiro said." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: The user will write a bit then you need to write around eight sentences continuing directly from the user's text. Characters and lore may appear without context - work with what's given.\n\nAuthor style: Susan Spann" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro knelt before the writing alcove in the south wall of his room and slipped the burned pages from his sleeve. He laid them in a row on the low wooden desk. After studying them for a while he reached for the narrow box that sat at the far end of the desk.\n\nThe cedar box had several compartments. One held parchments, another ink sticks. A third held various papers, including the scrap Hiro retrieved from Mayuri's kimono. He removed the paper from the box and added it to the others.\n\nThe pages looked identical in thickness, but accounting books all looked similar and the scorch marks made it impossible to tell for sure." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo entered the room and knelt beside Hiro." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't understand,\" he said. \"Why would one page be ripped and others burned?\"\n\n\"She might have tried to rip out the incriminating pages and then realized torn ledgers looked suspicious.\"\n\n\"It is a ledger, then?\"\n\n\"Several of them.\" Hiro explained what he had seen in the fire room.\n\n\"But what was Mayuri trying to hide?\" Father Mateo asked. A few seconds later his mouth fell open in surprise. \"Do you think she's using one brother's death to defraud the other?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What?\" Hiro pulled his gaze from the scraps." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What are you talking about?\"\n\n\"Won't Mayuri have to give Hidetaro's money back if Sayuri is executed? But if there's no record of the payments...\"\n\n\"That's not a bad theory,\" Hiro said, \"although, if you're right, Hidetaro has known Sayuri longer than either of them admits.\n\n\"Businesses start a new ledger every year on New Year's Day. Whatever Mayuri is trying to hide goes back at least three years.\"\n\n\"And Sayuri only had her debut this spring,\" Father Mateo said.\n\n\"Exactly,\" Hiro said. He continued, thinking aloud. \"An apprentice spends at least four years in training, so it's possible Hidetaro saw Sayuri before her debut. I didn't think to ask if Hideyoshi visited another girl before Sayuri caught his eye.\"\n\nFather Mateo picked up one of the burned pages." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He examined both sides and handed it to Hiro." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you see anything useful? I don't recognize anything but numbers.\"\n\nImpeccable calligraphy ran down both sides of the paper in straight vertical lines. Fire and ash rendered most of the figures illegible, but Hiro could tell the numbers were high. That didn't surprise him. Cedar floors and fancy kimonos weren't cheap.\n\nMost ledger pages had headings at the top of every column, but the top and sides of the page in question had perished in the fire. The others looked the same.\n\nHiro laid the scrap on the desk." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's too badly burned. Without the headings I can't tell whose accounts the columns contain, or even what the numbers stand for. It was a slim chance anyway. Accounts alone won't explain what Mayuri is hiding.\"\n\nFather Mateo pointed at the unburned page. \"Now that we know it's a ledger, can you tell anything from that one?\"\n\nHiro picked up the original jagged scrap. It had come from the top of a page and contained one intact column heading and part of a column on either side.\n\n\"The center column has a name.\" Hiro pointed. \"Tanaka Ichiro.\"\n\n\"Do you know him?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro cocked an eyebrow at the priest. \"Tanaka is a popular clan name in Kyoto, and Ichiro means 'first son.'" }, { "from": "human", "value": "We could find a thousand men in Kyoto by that name." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"More importantly,\" he continued, \"only nobles have two names, and the Bushido code disapproves of samurai patronizing teahouses. Even if we found the right Tanaka Ichiro, he won't admit it.\"\n\nThe priest looked disappointed.\n\n\"It wouldn't help anyway,\" Hiro continued. \"We can't track down every visitor to the Sakura in the hope that someone will know what Mayuri might want to hide. Her secret might not relate to the murder at all. The opposite seems more likely—this was just a convenient excuse to cover up an embarrassment.\"\n\n\"Or another crime,\" Father Mateo said. \"Can you read any more of the page?\"\n\nHiro looked at the scrap. \"The numbers don't start at zero, which suggests a running tally. The figures are large, but that's hardly unexpected.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He squinted at the torn column to the right of Ichiro's name." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"The next column heading might say 'Akechi,' but it's ripped in the middle and the given name is missing.\"\n\n\"Then it could be either Hideyoshi or Hidetaro.\"\n\n\"Or someone else entirely. We can't tell without a given name.\"\n\n\"Could Hidetaro have killed his brother to ruin the teahouse's reputation and lower Sayuri's price?\"\n\nHiro looked up, impressed. \"For a priest, you think of some intricate schemes.\"\n\n\"I was a man before I was a priest, and the Bible describes some very ingenuous sinners. It might even teach you a thing or two, if you read it.\"\n\nAs usual, Hiro ignored the invitation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hidetaro wouldn't kill his brother in the teahouse.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Remember to mention: \"Too much chance Sayuri would take the blame.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He turned the ripped page over in his fingers while he thought. \"Too much chance Sayuri would take the blame.\"\n\n\"Was it a shinobi after all?\"\n\nHiro set the scrap on the desk. \"Perhaps a hired killer. Not a shinobi or kunoichi—at least, not an experienced one.\"\n\n\"Why not?\"\n\n\"The wounds. Hideyoshi's throat was slashed from behind, which suggests an assassin, but the execution showed a remarkable lack of skill. His throat looked ripped as well as cut, so the killer was strong—probably a man, though a woman might have done it. No one creates that many wounds with a knife, which means neko-te, but the jagged cuts indicate an inexperienced user.\"\n\nHiro raised his hand and hooked his fingers in imitation of claws." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Kunoichi use neko-te to stab or cut, but rarely both at once.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He pantomimed stabbing himself in the heart and then slitting his own throat. \"It takes too much time. A professional would have known that.\"\n\n\"Maybe the killer wanted to be sure he was dead?\"\n\n\"Again, a sign of a novice,\" Hiro said. \"The stab wounds barely bled, which means Hideyoshi was already dead or so close that it made no difference.\"\n\n\"How do you know all this?\" A hint of suspicion crept into the Jesuit's voice.\n\n\"I'll show you.\" Hiro stood up and positioned himself behind the priest." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You're Hideyoshi, kneeling on the floor in front of the alcove.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo twisted around with a concerned frown on his face. \"Wait a minute.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro pointed at the desk. \"Trust me. Look there.\"\n\nHe waited until the priest complied.\n\n\"Now,\" Hiro continued, \"while you're looking at a mediocre flower arrangement—which probably looks slightly better because you're drunk—the killer sneaks up behind you and slashes your throat with neko-te.\"\n\nHiro's right hand hovered over the Jesuit's hair while his left snaked around the priest's neck and then pulled away with violent speed. Father Mateo jerked backward, startled, though the shinobi had not touched him.\n\n\"Your blood spurts out on the wall as the killer attacks again,\" Hiro pantomimed a second, slower cut across the priest's throat, \"and again. That's when the ripping happens. The blades get stuck in the grooves from previous cuts. One blade also comes loose.\"\n\n\"How?\" Father Mateo asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Weren't they sewn into the finger cuffs?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes, but it's hard to sew a blade into leather securely. That's why the weapon is normally used to stab instead of slice. The blade must have caught on Hideyoshi's collarbone or in the sinews of his neck. Either way, it came loose during the attack.\"\n\nHiro put his hands on the priest's shoulders. \"Back to the killing.\n\n\"You slump forward, nearing death, but the killer doesn't leave as a shinobi or kunoichi would have. He, or she, pulls you onto your back to finish the job.\"\n\nFather Mateo let Hiro lower him backward to the floor. The shinobi extended his fingers, still hooked like claws. \"The killer stabs you in the eyes and then in the chest, where the loosened blade pulls free. An experienced assassin would have noticed and removed it from the scene, but this killer leaves it behind.\"\n\n\"So that's why you didn't suspect a shinobi.\" Father Mateo pushed himself back to a kneeling position." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro nodded. \"Also, shinobi and kunoichi rarely stab a victim in the eyes. Defiling the dead invites retribution on the assassin's clan.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "🎯 Target word: 'shinobi' | Required occurrences: 3" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo looked surprised. \"Divine retribution? I thought you didn't believe in superstition.\"\n\n\"Not all retribution is divine.\"\n\n\"A shinobi would never defile a corpse?\"\n\n\"A professional will do anything if the price is right,\" Hiro said, \"but shinobi or not, the person responsible for the killing must have hated Hideyoshi.\"\n\n\"Or hated the look of his dead eyes,\" Father Mateo said.\n\nHiro turned to the priest in surprise. \"I hadn't thought of that, but I think you're right. Shinobi are trained not to mind a dead man's eyes, but it does take training and fortitude." }, { "from": "human", "value": "I didn't like it the first time I saw it myself." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If this wasn't a professional with orders to desecrate, our killer is probably someone who's never seen a freshly slaughtered corpse.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll be your writing partner today. I will set the scene and character context, and you will continue with 7 sentences, keeping within the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro looked back at the papers, trying to decide what Mayuri would want to hide." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As he stared at the scraps and wished for an answer, a tiny black and orange paw slipped over the side of the desk and edged toward the ledger pages.\n\nHiro looked under the desk. The tiny kitten sat at the edge of the alcove, ears flattened and foreleg fully extended as if reaching for the papers. She froze when Hiro's face appeared, then whipped her paw away and dashed from the room.\n\nHiro shook his head. \"So much for spiders.\"\n\n\"I don't think Sayuri could have done it,\" Father Mateo said, too absorbed in the problem to notice the kitten's antics." }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must use the word 'agree' exactly 2 times in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"She's far too gentle to stab a man in the eyes. Besides, she's become a Christian.\"\n\n\"I've heard you talk about the heroes of your Bible, your David and Joshua and the rest. Your Scriptures prove that accepting your faith doesn't stop a person from killing.\" Before the priest could reply Hiro continued. \"However, Sayuri would have to be much stronger than she looks to overpower a samurai from behind.\"\n\nFather Mateo took a deep breath and released it with nearly the force of a sigh. \"Then you finally agree she's innocent.\"\n\n\"I agree she may not have held the neko-te,\" Hiro corrected." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I won't go as far as innocence.\"\n\nFather Mateo scratched his nose and then shook his head. \"I can't believe you really train women as assassins.\"\n\n\"Why does it surprise you?\" Hiro asked. \"Women are far more vicious than men.\"\n\n\"I just can't imagine a woman sneaking around with a dagger in her hand.\"\n\n\"Kunoichi don't sneak. They pose as priestesses, or prostitutes... or entertainers. I'm not convinced this was a kunoichi, though, or even a woman. We can't make any assumptions. Only facts provide answers.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro cast a glance at the sliding door in the western wall, which led to the porch and yard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The panels glowed crimson with the light of the setting sun.\n\nHe stood up and straightened his kimono. \"I think I'll go have a drink.\"\n\nFather Mateo hid a frown. \"Sake?\"\n\n\"Did you think I gave it up?\"\n\nThe Jesuit's shrug indicated yes.\n\n\"Ana dumping the last flask in the koi pond cured me of bringing it home,\" Hiro said, \"but you should both give up the idea that I will stop drinking it elsewhere. Don't men drink together in Portugal?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"There are other things to drink.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"True enough,\" Hiro said, \"but there's one problem with all of them. They are not sake.\"\n\nFather Mateo accompanied the shinobi to the door.\n\nHiro started toward the road, turned back, and asked, \"Do you want to come along? I promise to drink enough that Ginjiro won't mind if you don't indulge.\"\n\n\"No thank you.\" Father Mateo's lip twitched. \"I have a prayer meeting tonight.\"\n\nHiro concealed his amusement behind a nod. The Jesuit wouldn't have fooled a five-year-old, let alone a shinobi trained to read men's faces." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Still, he respected the effort." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The priest was trying to act like a samurai and a friend.\n\nAs he walked toward the river he imagined how surprised the priest would be if he ever learned that Hiro hated sake. The brewery, and Hiro's drinking, served a very different purpose." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Cooperative storytelling\nContext: May include established characters/lore without introduction\nMy role: Provide a brief opening\nYour role: Expand upon my opening with 10 sentences, emulating the writing style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro reached the Kamo River just as a rider on a dark brown horse approached the bridge from the opposite side. The mare's hide glowed crimson in the setting sun and her hooves seemed to disappear in the shadows near the road.\n\nOnly samurai had the legal right to ride, so the equestrian's twin swords did not surprise Hiro, though the rider's dark hakama trousers and matching silk surcoat made the shinobi take a closer look. Men almost always chose contrasting colors.\n\nThe rider was a woman, though dressed like a samurai, and even across the river Hiro recognized her face.\n\nAkechi Yoshiko reined her horse to the right and trotted southward along the narrow dirt road on the west side of the river. She ducked to avoid a tree branch that grew over the path and spurred the mare to a canter. As she rode away, she glanced over her shoulder as though making certain no one followed her.\n\nBut for that gesture, Hiro might have dismissed it as just an evening ride for pleasure or exercise, but Yoshiko's concern made him curious. He decided to forego his original plans for a little while and turned south along the parallel path that followed the eastern bank." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As he hurried along, he wished he could have worn his shinobi trousers in public instead of the bulky kimono and swords his alleged occupation required." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kimonos made it hard to run without attracting notice and even harder to scale rooftops and climb trees for a secret view." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He consoled himself with the knowledge that the kimono reduced the need for explanations if Yoshiko noticed him following." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This close to Pontocho, Hiro could claim an appointment in the pleasure quarters.\n\nThe sun slipped beneath the horizon and the sky darkened from red and gold to lavender and indigo. Puffy clouds glowed like embers and then faded like dying coals.\n\nHiro lost sight of the horse in the fading light. The sound of its hooves died away. He slowed his pace and balled his fist in frustration, though he doubted he had missed any useful clue. A woman on horseback attracted attention even in busy Kyoto, and he doubted Yoshiko would take the horse on any suspicious mission.\n\nFor a moment, though, he had felt almost like a real shinobi again. He had missed that feeling since his arrival in Kyoto. Clandestine practice kept his skills sharp but didn't produce the excitement of tracking real prey." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A few minutes later Hiro reached the bridge at Sanjō Road." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Darkness had fallen but glowing lanterns beckoned from the commercial ward on the opposite side of the river. As Hiro stepped onto the bridge to cross, he heard a faint neigh from somewhere behind him.\n\nHe turned and looked down the road toward the Sakura Teahouse. It wasn't difficult to spot the establishment at night. Lanterns hanging from the eaves lit the building as brightly as day. Hiro saw figures in the yard and on a hunch, he walked toward the teahouse.\n\nA horse-shaped shadow stood in the road in front of the Sakura. A dark figure in trousers held its reins, but it didn't look like Yoshiko. More likely, a dōshin held the reins while the woman met with someone inside the house. Nobuhide's men would not refuse a request from the yoriki's sister, even if it made them act like grooms." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At least, the older ones would not refuse." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro doubted the arrogant younger man would sacrifice his pride for any woman." }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<USAGE LIMIT>>: 'would' must be used 4 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As Hiro reached the space between the first and second houses, he conquered his curiosity and stopped. A closer approach would only work to his disadvantage. The dōshin wouldn't explain Yoshiko's presence even if they knew the reason, and Hiro couldn't scale rooftops wearing a kimono and swords. He could stop Yoshiko when she left, but she had no reason to tell the truth or even respond to his inquiry. His presence would only inform her that he knew what she was doing, and Hiro disliked unequal exchanges of information that didn't weigh in his favor.\n\nHe retreated as far as the bridge and looked for a place to hide. He wouldn't confront Yoshiko, but he had no intention of leaving before she did. He wanted to know the length of her visit and whether she left alone.\n\nThe sakura trees along the road provided no cover for someone on the ground. Leaves and branches would camouflage a climber in a hood, but a man without a mask would stand out like snow on a mountaintop." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Wide verandas circled the houses on both sides of the road." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The porches were dark and shadowed by eaves, but candles flickered behind the paneled screens and Hiro didn't relish the thought of explaining his presence to a resident who stepped out for a breath of air.\n\nHe turned to the bridge. The arched wooden structure was built on pilings of wood and stone that curved above and across the river. The riverbed was fairly steep, but the sheltered space where the bridge met the bank created an artificial cave just large enough to hide a man. Hiro moved around the end of the bridge and eased himself toward the bottom of the structure.\n\nHe had almost reached the shadowed space when a voice yelled, \"Help! Murder!!\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Write three sentences sentences in the style of Susan Spann spawning from what the user wrote. Note: Characters and worldbuilding may appear mid-story." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro spun toward the road, then realized that the yell came from under the bridge.\n\nA lumpy shadow emerged from the deeper darkness beneath the pilings. The sharp smell of urine wafted toward him, followed by a blast of rancid breath as the shadow screamed, \"Help! Help! Murder!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Shh.\" Hiro hushed the figure and waved his hands palm up to demonstrate he held no sword." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm not going to hurt you.\"\n\nHe listened for footsteps on the road but heard nothing. The yells had not alarmed the dōshin yet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Help!\" the shadow called, more feebly this time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The odiferous figure canted to one side as though looking at Hiro from another angle. It did not yell again. Instead it asked, \"Are you the police, or a murderer come to kill me?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Neither,\" Hiro hissed. \"I'm... lost. I wanted a place to sleep.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Lost? With those swords?\" The shadow cackled with laughter. \"Try again.\"\n\nThe scent of long-dead fish and rotting teeth assailed Hiro's nostrils." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"All right,\" he confessed, crouching low and dropping his voice to a whisper." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The shadow crouched a foot away and leaned forward conspiratorially. Ancient sweat and the odor of greasy hair joined the assault on Hiro's senses. He tried to ignore them and stifled a cough of disgust." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"My wife is up there,\" Hiro whispered, \"with another man. I don't want her to know I followed her.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The shadow cackled again, more softly this time. \"Are you going to kill him? Do you want me to help? I would, you know, for a silver coin.\"\n\n\"Not tonight.\" Hiro thought quickly." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I think she has a second lover also, and I want to find him too.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Then give me the silver anyway. If you don't, I'll yell again.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'beggar's' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If I do, will you stay quiet until I leave?\"\n\nThe beggar's shadowy head tipped from side to side as he considered the offer. \"All right.\"\n\nHiro pulled a coin from the purse inside his kimono and placed it in the beggar's outstretched palm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He had no trouble finding the proffered hand despite the darkness." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'beggar' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The beggar almost poked Hiro in the eye in his eagerness to grab the coin.\n\nThe moment metal met palm the beggar snatched the silver away with a cackle and shuffled back under the bridge. Hiro crouched beside the piling and waited." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He tried not to breathe through his nose." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A few minutes later a horse approached from the direction of the teahouse. Hooves thudded on the bridge. When Hiro judged the rider had reached mid-river he crept to the end of the bridge and looked across." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Lanterns in the commercial ward backlit the horse, but Hiro could tell the rider was dressed like a samurai and had a full head of hair." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yoshiko had spent about half an hour in the teahouse, too long just to pick up her father's belongings and far too short to conduct an interrogation. Hiro considered following her but decided against it. In the dark and on foot was no way to track a rider." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Instead, he set off across the bridge. On the other side of the river he headed west along Sanjō Road. Plinking music and women's laughter floated out of Pontocho, along with the muffled conversation of men and women walking in the narrow alley." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He glanced toward the House of the Floating Plums but couldn't distinguish Umeha's house from the other gaily lit establishments." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He smelled rice cakes and grilling meat from a nearby shop and a whisper of sake from the breath of a man passing by in the road.\n\nHe left the alley behind without a second look and continued down the road. He turned left at the next thoroughfare, a commercial street filled with restaurants and sake shops." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro thought their familiar lights glared less and welcomed more than Pontocho's." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A little way down the street, a vendor had set up a noodle stall in front of a sake shop." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The stall was only a charcoal brazier standing beside the vendor's crates of supplies, but the smell of noodles and thick fishy sauce made Hiro's stomach growl." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stopped and ordered the largest bowl available.\n\nThe vendor pulled fresh noodles from a box and dangled them in boiling water for little more than a minute before swirling them into a bowl and pouring a ladle of fishy soy sauce over the top. A sprinkle of dried bonito flakes finished it off, and Hiro handed the vendor a copper coin in return for the heaping bowl and a pair of chopsticks." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He ate the noodles standing in the road and returned the empty bowl with a speed that surprised and pleased the vendor.\n\n\"Thank you,\" Hiro said, \"very tasty.\"\n\nThe vendor bowed and continued bowing as Hiro turned south on the unpaved road." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A couple of minutes later Hiro arrived at Ginjiro's sake brewery." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Like many brewers, Ginjiro's had an open storefront with a raised floor that sat almost waist level above the street. Patrons knelt at the edge of the floor to enter, and once inside they could sit, drink sake, and watch passersby in the road. Hiro liked Ginjiro's because it was small, and also because the shop offered better food than most." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ginjiro's opened at noon and closed when the last patron left or the sun came up, which usually meant the shop stayed open until dawn." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ginjiro served the sake himself, from barrels kept behind the wooden counter that ran the length of the establishment at the back of the shop. The floor of the service area sat at ground level, so only half of Ginjiro was visible over the top of the counter.\n\nHiro surveyed the storefront as he approached." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Two samurai sat by the left end of the bar, drinking sake from tiny cups the size and shape of half an eggshell." }, { "from": "human", "value": "An earthenware flask marked with Ginjiro's seal sat on the tatami before them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It looked much like the flask Hiro used as a decoy until Ana's wrath relieved him of that unpleasant portion of his cover. Most sake drinkers had a personal flask for taking sake home. Hiro was glad to have an excuse for its omission." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The customer on the right raised the flask and filled his companion's cup and then his own." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They raised the cups to each other and resumed their conversation.\n\nAn ancient monk sat alone at the opposite end of the brewery. His cross-legged form teetered on the edge, as if about to tumble into the street." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Liver spots covered his balding head, an almost-perfect match to the color of his tattered robe, which was itself spotted with the remnants of meals long eaten and other things best forgotten." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When the monk saw Hiro, his wet lips parted in a grin that revealed his last remaining lower tooth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Ai! Hiro!\"\n\nThe monk raised a hand in a wave that would have tipped him to the ground if Hiro hadn't stepped up and caught his arm.\n\n\"Good evening, Suke.\" Hiro steadied the monk and withdrew his hands carefully to ensure the elderly cleric did not fall." }, { "from": "human", "value": "With the monk settled, Hiro drew his katana from its sheath and laid it on the raised floor while he slipped off his sandals and climbed into the brewery." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Then he carried the sword to the bar." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ginjiro accepted the weapon with a bow and placed it in a wooden holder at the far end of the room, beside three other katana. Two would belong to the other patrons. The third must have been left by drunken mistake." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro raised two fingers to Ginjiro.\n\nThe proprietor frowned. \"Don't buy him sake. You know I don't like him here.\"\n\n\"Then run him off,\" Hiro said, well aware that the brewer would not." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You know I can't. Not without risking bad karma.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"And the abbot of his temple complaining to the magistrate,\" Hiro added. The brewer feared the judge's wrath far more than any gods.\n\n\"He's bad for business,\" Ginjiro complained." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't like to drink alone,\" Hiro countered, \"so it seems to me that makes him good for business—if you want mine, anyway.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Ginjiro frowned as he reached beneath the counter and clapped two ceramic sake cups on the wooden countertop. He sighed and moved away to draw a flask of sake.\n\nWhen the brewer returned Hiro took the cups and the flask of liquor across the room to Suke." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Very kind of you, very kind,\" the monk said as Hiro knelt and set the cups and flask on the floor between them." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Amida Buddha have mercy on your soul.\"\n\nHiro filled Suke's cup and then his own.\n\nThe monk raised the cup in both hands." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Infinite blessings upon you.\"\n\nHe downed the sake in a single gulp and lowered the cup. Suke's tongue passed over his lips to catch every drop and his eyes locked on the sake flask like a thin dog watching a butcher." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro refilled Suke's cup and didn't bother to set down the flask." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The monk drained the cup twice more in quick succession, but after the fourth cup he sipped at the liquor instead of bolting it down.\n\nHiro set down the flask and raised his own cup to his lips. They sipped in silence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Every time the shinobi refilled Suke's cup, the monk offered happy blessings that never quite lost their edge of surprise, as though Suke didn't remember the oft-repeated ritual." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro didn't believe his kindness bought eternal merit as Suke claimed, but the shinobi liked to see the old man happy, and the monk gave Hiro a good reason to buy sake and a better excuse not to drink it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As he filled Suke's cup for the seventh time and gestured for Ginjiro to bring another flask, Hiro asked, \"Have you seen Kazu lately?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It's not so late.\" Suke pondered his sake cup, drained it in one swallow, and placed the cup on the tatami for a refill. Hiro upended the empty flask over the cup." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Suke sighed and looked anxiously toward the counter, as though uncertain whether Ginjiro would bring them more sake." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Only after the second flask arrived and the cup was full did the monk seem to remember Hiro's question. \"Not today. Yesterday he bought me a cup of sake.\"\n\nKnowing the monk, it was probably more like a flask." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Kazu is a good man,\" Suke said, \"though not as good as you are, Hiro, Amida Buddha bless you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The words had barely left his mouth when a samurai approached the sake shop. He wore an expensive black kimono that bore the shogun's crest, and his swords cost more than most shopkeepers made in a year. He wore his hair in a perfect topknot, oiled and shining like moonlight on a midnight lake." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His narrow face and black almond-shaped eyes stopped women in the street, but he exuded a humility that belied his twenty years. His careful movements and friendly demeanor made men trust him and consider him no threat.\n\nMost men, anyway.\n\nHiro knew Kazu better than that." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Today you will be acting as a writing assistant for a segment of a larger mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s story. Your partner will send something and you will write the next two sentences. Characters may already be established." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The samurai drew his katana, climbed into the shop, and handed the sword to the brewer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As he turned away from the counter with his cup and flask in hand, he noticed Hiro sitting beside the monk." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A smile spread over the young man's face and he swept a graceful bow." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hiro,\" he said in the eloquent accent favored by the shogunate and the imperial court." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What brings you to Ginjiro's? Avoiding another prayer meeting with your foreign priest?\"\n\nHiro smiled at the flawless speech." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu had done nothing but complain while learning it, yet, all these years later, no one would guess the polished young man had grown up in the wilds of Iga." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He needs someone to pray for other than you, Kazu,\" Hiro retorted with a grin.\n\nKazu laughed and knelt between Hiro and the monk." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He looked around the room as he settled himself. He opened his mouth to ask a question but Hiro cut him off." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Haven't seen her.\"\n\nA flash of disappointment crossed Kazu's face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro knew the reason." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu had taken a fancy to Ginjiro's daughter, Tomiko, who helped the brewer in the shop on certain nights." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Samurai did not intermarry with merchants, but that knowledge had done little to curb Kazu's ardor, and, although Hiro doubted the young man would act on the impulse, he did all he could to discourage the foolish crush.\n\n\"You know better,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We are the only ones here,\" Kazu protested, misunderstanding Hiro's objection. He picked up the empty sake flask on the floor and shook it meaningfully." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Suke won't remember anything tomorrow.\"\n\n\"I'll remember your generosity forever,\" Suke slurred as he helped himself to a cup from Kazu's flask." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A thousand Amida blessings on your house.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He drained the cup and leered at Kazu over the rim." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"See?\" Kazu said." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'plate' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The brewer brought a third flask of sake for Hiro and also a plate of pickled vegetable snacks. When the monk reached for a radish, Ginjiro swept the plate away and placed it between the samurai, just out of Suke's reach." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The brewer glared at Hiro as though daring him to feed the offending monk before returning to his place behind the counter.\n\nSuke looked from the samurai to the food with a pleading expression that turned to a drunken grin as Hiro pushed the plate in the monk's direction." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The vegetables disappeared in less than two minutes, followed by most of Hiro's third flask." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu shook his head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"All that sake isn't good for him.\"\n\n\"When did you develop a conscience?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu lowered his head and gave Hiro a practiced glare." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"If you want him here to drink with you, it behooves you to consider his well-being.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro nodded, accepting the chastisement, and asked Suke, \"Have you eaten rice today?\"\n\n\"Rice?\" Suke's question sent bits of pickled radish all over the front of his robe." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu leaned back to avoid the spray." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The monk shook his head emphatically. \"Not today.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro caught Ginjiro's eye, cupped his hands in a bowl, and mouthed the word \"rice.\"\n\nGinjiro shook his head, but when Hiro held up two silver coins the merchant sighed and disappeared through the indigo curtain that separated the storefront from the living quarters and brewery beyond." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro took a sip from his sake cup, which was still half full from his initial pouring. The fermented rice liquor smelled sweet but burned like poison in his throat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro found few things more unpleasant than pretending to enjoy it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro and Kazu sipped at their cups while the monk finished off Hiro's liquor and started on Kazu's. When the rice arrived Hiro gave Ginjiro the silver coins, plus another for the sake." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was more than twice the total bill, but Hiro didn't mind. The extra money ensured that Suke would have a place to sleep off the drink later on." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As the monk shoveled down his rice, Kazu asked, \"Have you had a busy week?\"\n\n\"More than usual,\" Hiro said, \"but I need to go. Shall I tell you on the way?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu nodded assent to the coded request." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'their' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We can walk together.\"\n\nThey said farewell to Suke, retrieved their swords, and stepped down into their sandals." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro stepped to the center of the street and started north.\n\nKazu waited until they had left the brewery behind before asking, \"What do you need?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He kept his voice low to ensure they were not overheard, but as always he retained his polished accent." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu never dropped his elaborate shogunate façade." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Did you hear about the murder east of Pontocho this morning?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kazu shook his head. \"Not your work, I assume.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Nor yours?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"You know I don't take those assignments. I am too valuable at the shogunate.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After a pause he added, \"What happened?\"\n\n\"A samurai, murdered in a teahouse.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why are you asking me about it?\"\n\n\"The corpse is named Akechi Hideyoshi.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The startled look on Kazu's handsome face made Hiro's next question unnecessary." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The general?\" Kazu asked. \"Akechi Mitsuhide's cousin?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was Hiro's turn to look startled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How do you know that name?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required text (preserve exact wording): \"Everyone at the shogunate knows that name,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Everyone at the shogunate knows that name,\" Kazu said, \"and I would be a pretty poor scribe if I forgot, considering that I wrote the order condemning him to die if he sets foot in Kyoto again. At the shogun's instruction, of course. He was furious when Mitsuhide defected to Lord Oda's command.\"\n\n\"Does the death sentence extend to the rest of the family?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Of course not. The last thing the shogun wants is a blood feud with the Akechi clan, especially with Lord Oda threatening to seize the shogunate.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Has he threatened the shogun publicly?\"\n\n\"Not yet,\" Kazu said, \"but it's only a matter of time, and when the fight comes the shogun needs every loyal sword he can get.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Does he believe the Akechi are loyal?\" Hiro asked. \"I heard that Akechi Mitsuhide visited Kyoto on his way to Nagoya.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"To buy weapons, if I'm not mistaken.\" Kazu gave a knowing smile." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A hundred and fifty arquebuses to arm Lord Oda's troops. Why do you think the shogun was so angry?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"All right, All-Knowing One,\" Hiro said, \"let's see how you fare with this riddle. How many merchants from Nagoya sold rice to the shogun this week?\"\n\nKazu's grin disappeared in an instant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If that's a joke, it isn't funny.\"\n\n\"A man claiming to be a Nagoya rice merchant visited the Sakura Teahouse last night,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu's delicate eyebrows knitted with concern. \"A spy?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's what I want to know,\" Hiro said. \"If he killed Hideyoshi, Lord Oda may be testing the shogun's defenses.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu nodded. \"I will see what I can find.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Tonight,\" Hiro said. \"I need an answer by morning.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why in such a hurry? The corpse can't get any colder.\"\n\n\"If I don't find the killer in two days, Hideyoshi's son will kill the Jesuit priest.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Kazu stared at Hiro as though the shinobi had suggested they should kill the foreigner themselves. \"You cannot let that happen.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I hardly need you to tell me that my life depends on the priest's survival. Hanzo made that clear when he sent me here.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm not talking about your life.\" Kazu looked like someone had kicked him in the stomach. \"The shogun's spies in Nagoya report that Lord Oda has told the Portuguese Kyoto is not safe. He granted permission for them to build a church in his capital and promised safety for every trader who locates his warehouse there." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"For now, the Portuguese merchants have stayed in Kyoto, and elsewhere. They know that more cities mean more sales. But if your priest dies...\" He trailed off.\n\n\"Oda will have all the warehouses, all the firearms,\" Hiro said." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Today you will be acting as a writing assistant for a segment of a larger mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s story. Your partner will send something and you will write the next two sentences. Characters may already be established." }, { "from": "system", "value": "<<USAGE LIMIT>>: 'shogun' must be used 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Father Mateo isn't going to die,\" Hiro said with more confidence than he felt, \"but I need to know who wanted Akechi Hideyoshi dead. If it's not Lord Oda, or the shogun seeking vengeance, I'll know I need to look for someone else.\"\n\n\"I do not think the shogun is involved,\" Kazu said, \"but I will look at the records and meet you at Ginjiro's tomorrow evening.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That's too late,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I only have until noon the day after tomorrow.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I could check tonight and meet you in the morning. An hour after dawn, at our usual sparring ground just north of Tofuku-ji?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Excellent,\" Hiro said. \"It's been a while since I taught you a thing or two.\"\n\nThey had reached Shijō Road." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro started to turn right, toward the river, and paused. \"One more thing.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu arched an eyebrow." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Don't do that,\" Hiro said. \"People might think we're related.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We are related.\"\n\n\"Not in public,\" Hiro growled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu's second eyebrow joined the first." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why didn't Hideyoshi's son follow him into the shogun's army?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro asked. \"Wouldn't a general's son normally receive a commission?\"\n\n\"Normally,\" Kazu replied. Then, \"Akechi Hideyoshi had a son?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Has a son. A yoriki named Nobuhide.\"\n\n\"Unfortunate choice,\" Kazu said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He will not win the shogun's favor with a name so close to Nobunaga's.\"\n\n\"Do you think that might have affected his status?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I doubt it, but I can look. If he has a record it should be next to his father's.\"\n\nThey parted for the second time and Hiro turned back again. \"Kazu.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The younger man looked back over his shoulder.\n\n\"Be careful,\" Hiro warned. \"I doubt the shogun ordered this murder, but, if he did, a man who starts asking questions could find himself in danger.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's work on this story segment. I'll provide a part, and you'll continue with six sentences in the style of Susan Spann. This is mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre and characters might appear without introduction." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The next morning Hiro woke before dawn. A gentle but unexpected weight pressed down on his feet and ankles. He raised his head and saw the tortoiseshell kitten curled in a ball at the end of the futon, directly atop his feet. She had her tail tucked under her nose and her eyes screwed shut in sleep. When Hiro stirred she raised her head and gave him a sleepy look, then closed her eyes and laid her head down with a sigh.\n\nHiro slipped out from under the kitten and into his practice clothes, a dark blue tunic and surcoat that belted at the waist and a pair of baggy black hakama that almost reached the ground." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He slipped on a pair of socks with a separate section for the toe and special soles designed for outside wear without sandals, opened the sliding door to the garden, and knelt on the veranda.\n\nHe spent several minutes in silent meditation, eyes closed and listening to his surroundings. He heard a breeze in the cherry tree and a koi break the surface of the pond. Leaves rustled, a shutter creaked, and a bird made a sleepy chirp on the far side of the garden wall. Hiro isolated each sound and imprinted it in his memory.\n\nWhen he finished Hiro went back inside and went through a series of katas." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The practice forms kept his body limber and his muscles familiar with fighting stances." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Most mornings he practiced in the yard or on the roof, but that morning he worked inside to practice stealth on the raised wooden floor that often creaked underfoot. Hiro completed his exercises without a sound.\n\nHe didn't even wake the sleeping kitten.\n\nHalf an hour before sunrise Hiro changed to his usual gray kimono, fastened his swords to his obi, and left the room. He left the kitten dozing on the futon.\n\nCandlelight flickered in Father Mateo's room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro saw the Jesuit's shadow against the paper panels of the dividing wall." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As he expected, the priest was kneeling in prayer.\n\nHiro slipped to the front door using nuki-ashi, a secret step that prevented floorboards from creaking. He had several errands to run that morning and intended to accomplish them alone.\n\nHe walked west to the river, crossed the bridge, and continued on toward the Nishijin district, which lay in the northwest corner of the city. He reached the silk and embroiderers' ward as the sun began to rise.\n\nHiro took his time as he walked along the unpaved street." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Two-story buildings rose on both sides of the narrow thoroughfare." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The merchants lived on the second floor, above their street-level workshops and storefronts. Hiro often wondered if they found the close quarters stifling. He couldn't imagine living where the neighbors could see from their windows into his own.\n\nIn an hour or two the street would bustle with shoppers and ring with merchants' voices announcing their fabulous wares, but at dawn the road was empty and the stores were shuttered tight. Here and there turtledoves strolled in the road. The birds' rolling gait and bobbing heads made them look like drunken samurai heading home from an overnight binge." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The shop Hiro wanted stood on a corner beside a famous silk emporium. He didn't expect to find it open, but as he approached the corner he saw an indigo noren hanging in the doorway of the store, announcing that the tailor had already opened his shop for business.\n\nWhite letters on the indigo banner read YASO KIMONO AND SILKS.\n\nA girl of eight or nine stood in front of the door and swept the edge of the street with a homemade broom. Her braid hung past her waist, and her glossy black hair shone in the morning sun. She wore a kimono of pink silk, exactly the shade of cherry blossoms in bloom." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Although the color was slightly out of season, the cut and fashion were of the latest style." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A contrasting obi bound her waist and trailed to the ground behind her.\n\nThe girl looked up at the sound of Hiro's footsteps and her face glowed with delighted recognition. She bowed but did not greet him. Well-bred little girls from the merchant class did not speak until spoken to, especially when addressing samurai.\n\nHiro returned the bow, and the girl blushed red at the compliment.\n\n\"Good morning Akiko,\" he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Is your father in?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She nodded.\n\n\"Would you ask him if he will see me? Please tell him I am sorry about the hour.\"\n\nAkiko bowed and disappeared into the shop. A couple of minutes later a man emerged. He wore a brown kimono and no sword, and he had a rolled-up piece of silk behind his ear. A glint of metal in the silk suggested a needle, or possibly several." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The man had a thin mustache that made him look older than his thirty-three years, and his eyes had a permanent squint from sewing without enough light." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Frequency requirement: 'kimono' - 2 occurrence(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He bowed to Hiro with a mixture of curiosity and familiarity.\n\nHiro returned the bow. \"Good morning, Yaso. I hope I did not disturb you.\"\n\nThe tailor smiled. \"Only samurai sleep late.\" He gave Hiro's kimono an appraising look. \"Is there a problem with your kimono? I don't see any tears or stains.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I'm afraid not. I have a question about one of your other clients.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yaso leaned forward eagerly. \"A fashion you'd like to copy?\"\n\n\"Not exactly. The man is dead.\"\n\nYaso nodded. \"Akechi Hideyoshi. That design might be bad luck.\"\n\n\"How did you know who I meant?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"My clients don't die every day." }, { "from": "human", "value": "His son, Nobuhide, was here yesterday." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm not in the habit of divulging private information,\" the tailor added. \"It's not good business.\"\n\n\"The question is actually about Hideyoshi's cousin.\"\n\nYaso's expression turned grim. He didn't answer.\n\n\"I know what you helped him do,\" Hiro said, \"but if you help me I might forget to mention it to the shogun.\"\n\nIt was a gamble." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro remembered that Luis wasn't certain who had made the introduction." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But sometimes, gambles paid off.\n\nYaso pressed his lips together until the color bled away. After a very long moment he asked, \"I know the man you mean. What help do you need?\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's work on this story segment. I'll provide a part, and you'll continue with six sentences in the style of Susan Spann. This is mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre and characters might appear without introduction." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How did you meet Akechi Mitsuhide?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I never actually met him in person. He wanted to buy some goods from the foreign trader, Luis. Hideyoshi knew that I make clothes for the Portuguese and asked me to make the introduction.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro raised an eyebrow at the lie." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yaso blushed. \"Well, I do make kimonos for the priest, and I might have let a few people think I make Luis's clothes too. I repair them when they tear, you know.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro doubted Luis had ever worn a patched garment but had the manners not to say so." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"So you made the introduction?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I set up a meeting,\" Yaso said, \"but I swear I thought the firearms were for the shogun's service. I didn't know Mitsuhide would take them to Lord Oda. I swear it.\"\n\n\"I believe you,\" Hiro said, and meant it. The tailor looked him in the eye and didn't fidget. His movements didn't indicate dishonesty, and Hiro doubted the tailor had the training or constitution to lie well.\n\n\"Did you hear from Hideyoshi's cousin again? Or anyone else in Lord Oda's service?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"No,\" Yaso said slowly, \"but two days ago a stranger came to the shop and asked me to introduce him to the Portuguese merchant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He said he was a rice merchant from outside Kyoto and that bandits were raiding his shipments and his warehouses. He wanted firearms to protect the rice.\n\n\"At first I refused. I didn't know him, and had no reason to make the introduction. But then he said he was a friend of Akechi Hideyoshi's. He claimed they were meeting at a teahouse later that night, and that Hideyoshi told him I could introduce him to the Portuguese trader.\"\n\n\"So you did,\" Hiro said.\n\nYaso nodded. \"I arranged a meeting.\" He paused. \"Did I help one of Lord Oda's spies?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It's possible,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Did you tell Nobuhide about this?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Yaso looked at the ground. \"I was frightened. He might have held me responsible.\"\n\n\"You are not responsible,\" Hiro said, \"but I understand your concern, and I will keep our conversation to myself.\"\n\nHiro left the relieved tailor and retraced his steps as far as Higashioji Dori, where he turned south and followed the road toward Tofuku-ji. The temple lay almost an hour's walk away, at the very southern edge of Kyoto, but Hiro didn't mind the exercise. He walked briskly down the empty street and considered the possibility that the merchant from Nagoya had killed Hideyoshi, either on orders from Lord Oda or for some other unknown reason." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In some ways it made sense and in other ways none at all. If Lord Oda sent a spy to Kyoto expecting Hideyoshi's cooperation, but the retired general refused, the \"rice merchant\" might have killed him to keep him silent. On the other hand, a daimyo like Lord Oda should know whose assistance he could count on. A man didn't seize whole provinces by acting on unverified assumptions. Hiro wished he had learned about the stranger before the man left Kyoto, but put the thought out of his mind. A man who dwelled on past problems often missed the ones that stood ahead in the path." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Hiro reached the entrance to the Tofuku-ji grounds, he found Kazu standing in the middle of the road." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The young samurai wore a robe of jet-black silk emblazoned with the shogun's mon, a circle with five horizontal black and white bars, and he scowled at Hiro like a tengu demon from a children's tale." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He bowed as the shinobi approached, and the moment Hiro returned the bow Kazu drew his katana and leaped forward with a yell that sent birds flying from a nearby pine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro's katana left its scabbard with a hiss and met Kazu's blade with a crash of steel on steel." }, { "from": "human", "value": "For ten full minutes they fought, advancing and retreating along the road as the blades rang like cymbals in the silent morning air." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "From the moment Kazu struck, Hiro thought of nothing but the swords, and he barely thought of those. He fought by instinct as much as will, his world consisting only of a tiny sphere of ground and air and steel.\n\nSlowly, Hiro backed his opponent toward the river that bordered the northern edge of the temple grounds. Kazu shifted sideways to avoid falling off the bank, but failed to see a fist-sized rock behind his foot. His geta slipped and he fell.\n\nHiro pounced for the kill, but Kazu rolled away and jumped to his feet." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His sword deflected Hiro's blade with a clang, but Hiro reversed his momentum without slowing and whirled around with the speed of a striking snake. His blade stopped less than an inch from Kazu's side.\n\nKazu's face fell. He shook his head and raised his blade to his opponent, then lowered it and bowed—a deep and respectful bow that admitted defeat. Hiro answered with a lesser bow of his own and resheathed his sword.\n\nThe fight was over. As always, Hiro won." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A group of monks stood on a nearby bridge, where they had gathered to watch the fight. Hiro glanced in their direction. The older ones nodded respectfully. The youngest one even bowed. Then, one at a time, they turned and shuffled off toward various buildings on the expansive temple grounds.\n\nHiro and Kazu walked south along one of the many gravel paths that connected the various buildings and twenty-four subtemples in the compound." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Here and there monks walked around or knelt in meditation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A small group stood by the river practicing katas with wooden swords." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The Rinzai sect of Buddhism had no objection to martial pursuits.\n\nHiro led Kazu across the Tsuten-kyo, a covered wooden bridge that spanned a deep, natural ravine between the northern temple entrance and the abbot's quarters to the south. In the middle of the bridge Hiro looked out over the tops of the myriad maple trees that covered the defile. A sea of feathery leaves spread out beneath the walkway as far as he could see. In autumn, when the leaves changed color, the bridge would look out on a sea of maple fire.\n\nAt the south end of the bridge, Kazu slowed his pace and said, \"I looked through the records and found no sign that the shogun wanted Akechi Hideyoshi dead. He didn't blame Hideyoshi for his cousin's defection. In fact, there's a note in Hideyoshi's file specifically stating that the shogun does not hold him responsible.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'think' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I think Nobunaga did send a spy.\" Hiro related his conversation with Yaso.\n\nKazu frowned. \"You have to get the priest to leave Kyoto. This morning, if you can.\"\n\n\"I don't think he will go,\" Hiro said.\n\n\"Persuade him,\" Kazu insisted.\n\nHiro narrowed his eyes at the younger man." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I apologize.\" Kazu blushed, remembering how substantially Hiro outranked him. \"But many lives are at stake if the foreigner dies.\"\n\n\"Did you learn anything else of interest?\" Hiro changed the subject to let Kazu know he forgave the breach.\n\n\"Did you know Hideyoshi had a brother?\"\n\n\"Hidetaro?\" Hiro stopped and looked around." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There was no one else in sight." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stood with his back to the abbot's house, facing Kazu and the bridge. \"Does he have a record with the shogunate?\"\n\nKazu stopped too. \"He was a high-ranking courier. He delivered secret messages for the shogun.\"\n\n\"A spy?\" Hiro remembered Hidetaro's faded robe and minor limp.\n\n\"Not shinobi,\" Kazu said, \"just a trusted courier with a little training in disguise and sleight of hand to help him pass through enemy territory safely. He retired—\"\n\n\"After an injury,\" Hiro finished." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Kazu's nose wrinkled. \"He was never injured. He retired after his father died.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A flicker of movement behind Kazu caught Hiro's eye. Someone had turned onto the bridge, and, despite the distance that separated them, Hiro thought he recognized the approaching samurai's face.\n\nHiro grabbed the shoulder of Kazu's tunic and dragged the young samurai into a cluster of pine and maple trees by the side of the road.\n\n\"Hey!\" Kazu began, but fell silent at the look on Hiro's face.\n\nHiro crouched behind the wide trunk of an ancient pine. Kazu did the same." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A screen of low-hanging maple branches between the pines and the path completed their camouflage.\n\nA moment later they heard footsteps on the bridge. A samurai in a faded blue kimono emerged from the covered passage and walked south toward the abbot's residence. His muddy geta crunched on the gravel path.\n\nThe even footsteps made Hiro wonder if he had mistaken the man for someone else. He glanced around the tree as the samurai passed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was Akechi Hidetaro, and he wasn't limping.\n\nHiro waited until the samurai passed the near end of the abbot's house and then whispered, \"That's Hidetaro. I'm going to follow him.\"\n\n\"Why?\" Kazu asked. \"It's clear the merchant killed Hideyoshi.\"\n\n\"Never rely on assumptions,\" Hiro said. \"The last one always kills you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Follow him if you want to,\" Kazu said, \"but please try to get the priest to leave. Nobuhide isn't reasonable, and he will kill the Jesuit if he can.\"\n\nHiro had started toward the path, but he turned back at Kazu's comment. \"I thought you didn't know Hideyoshi's son?\"\n\nKazu straightened. \"The shogun has a record on Nobuhide too. He tried to join the shogunate but the reviewing general called him too stupid and shortsighted for command.\"\n\n\"The record says that?\" Hiro's right eyebrow crept up just enough to show disbelief." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The official report reads 'best suited for duty as a yoriki.' Read between the lines. No competent man is appointed to the police. It's a service of last resort. The explanatory comments say Nobuhide refuses to accept direction or admit mistakes. If he decides the priest should die, you won't dissuade him.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro started after Hidetaro. \"Then I'll just have to persuade him that someone else deserves it more.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for five sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro reached the gravel path just as Hidetaro disappeared around the far end of the abbot's residence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro followed but didn't hurry." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A large, open yard lay beyond and he had no desire for Hidetaro to notice him at once.\n\nWhitewashed brick and wooden walls surrounded the distinguished gardens that lay on all sides of the abbot's house. Hiro left the path and walked beside the wall to minimize his visibility as he rounded the end of the building.\n\nThe square open yard had crushed gravel on the ground. The long wall of the abbot's southern garden formed the northern boundary of the yard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At the eastern end of the white-painted wall stood the kuri, the temple kitchen." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The building stood at least four stories high at the peak of its sloping roof, but most of the height was attributable to the giant eaves that ran from the ridge of the roof to the top of the ground floor wall." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A gentle, concave curve ensured that snow would not gather on the roof." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "On the ground floor, a pair of swinging entrance doors sat directly in the middle of the western wall. Three wide wooden steps led up to the doors from the ground. The kuri had no other windows or entrances that Hiro could see from his end of the yard, and he didn't waste any time looking. Hidetaro was just disappearing around the far corner of the kuri, on the path that led to the lesser temple of Ryogin-an.\n\nHiro waited until Hidetaro disappeared from view before crossing the wide gravel yard." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ryogin-an lay across a short covered bridge that spanned the same ravine as Tsuten-kyo, though the little canyon was shallower here and not as wide." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Wooden walls and tall trees surrounded the temple and its gardens. The path provided the only way in or out.\n\nHiro took his time crossing the wooden bridge. Birds chirped and squawked in the maples and a squirrel chattered in the ravine. The air was filled with the pleasant smells of new growth and drying leaves, scents that reminded Hiro of Iga, of home." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At the far end of the bridge an elderly monk cleared leaves from the path with a wooden rake." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro approached him and bowed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The monk bowed politely in return. \"May I help you?\"\n\n\"I thought I saw my friend from across the yard. His name is Akechi Hidetaro.\"\n\nHiro didn't expect the monk to know the name. Thousands of samurai visited the temple and meditated in its various gardens." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'temple' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "To his surprise, the man nodded. \"Hidetaro just went by a minute ago.\"\n\nHe pointed a wrinkled finger at the wooden wall that surrounded the temple building and its gardens.\n\nHiro bowed in thanks and continued along the short gravel path. He spied Hidetaro kneeling before a dry garden on the eastern side of the temple." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Like many Zen landscapes, the eastern garden consisted of a gravel bed studded with small rocks and boulders of various shapes and sizes." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Some stood upright but most were placed at angles to the ground. The gravel was clear of debris and freshly raked into geometric patterns. Straight lines ran the length of the bed, broken by circles surrounding the larger stones.\n\nHidetaro's gaze focused on a slanting stone that sat near the center of the garden. He didn't look up when Hiro arrived." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro didn't expect him to. Zen Buddhism taught a form of meditation that shut out the world and focused on an object, space, or thought. The rest of the world existed only when the practitioner decided it could return to his consciousness.\n\nHiro knelt to Hidetaro's left and practiced his own meditation, opening himself and his thoughts to the surroundings that other forms of meditation tried so hard to ignore. His eyes and ears found each bird that sang in the maple trees." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A falling leaf tapped against the garden wall and scratched the wood with its points as it fell to earth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he ran out of new sounds, Hiro considered the spaces between the stones." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In that, his shinobi training overlapped with the principles of Zen, though Hiro's study of negative space focused on discovering usefulness rather than mere understanding of their existence." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As Hidetaro returned from his meditative peace, he looked to his left and startled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro kept his gaze on the garden and pretended not to notice." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro stood up and turned to leave.\n\n\"Good morning,\" Hiro said.\n\nHidetaro turned back. \"Good morning. I apologize if I interrupted your meditation.\"\n\nHiro gestured for the other man to sit and then turned to look at the stones. \"Actually, I came to talk with you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hidetaro knelt beside the shinobi and faced the garden." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Has the foreign priest found my brother's killer?\"\n\n\"Perhaps.\"\n\nBoth men studied the rocks again. Without Father Mateo to feign ignorance, Hiro had to comply with the samurai social conventions that forbade a direct approach.\n\n\"This is a peaceful garden,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you meditate here often?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do you like it?\" Hidetaro's wistful smile suggested a familiarity with polite but not heartfelt compliments. \"Many people do not appreciate these dry landscapes, but then, few people really understand Zen meditation.\"\n\n\"Have you studied long?\" Hiro asked.\n\nHidetaro's gaze flickered across the stones." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I wanted to become a monk.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'father' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "An unusual ambition for a samurai's son.\n\n\"Your father did not agree?\" Hiro guessed.\n\n\"He naturally expected his eldest son to become a warrior, not a priest.\"\n\n\"So you did.\"\n\n\"Of course. I followed him into the service of the Ashikaga clan and practiced Zen on my own, mostly here at Tofuku-ji. I preferred this subtemple—Ryogin-an—because few people come here. Less chance of anyone telling my father that I had not abandoned my spiritual life.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A thin smile crept over Hidetaro's face, suggesting an unpleasant memory.\n\nHiro took a guess. \"Your father found out anyway.\"\n\nHidetaro didn't seem surprised. \"Yes, and he disinherited me, though I did not know he had done it until he died.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yet you did not become a monk.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Etiquette wouldn't let Hiro ask the reason, but it didn't prevent him from pointing out the obvious." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word restriction: Use 'monks' 2 time(s) only" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Not for want of effort. I requested release from the shogun, renounced my stipend, but the monastery refused to let me join the order.\" The thin smile flickered away. \"The abbot believed the shogun sent me to spy on the monks' activities.\"\n\n\"How strange,\" Hiro said. It didn't really seem strange at all, given Hidetaro's training and the monks' tendency to riot when displeased with the shogunate." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"To this day the abbot refuses to let me take the vows, though I have permission to meditate here as often as I wish.\"\n\nHidetaro told the story without emotion, like a man recounting cities he had lived in or the food he ate for lunch. Hiro couldn't help contrasting the current detachment with the previous day's concern. Unfortunately, he didn't know Hidetaro well enough to judge which persona was truthful and which a mask. He decided to find out.\n\n\"By the way,\" Hiro said, \"your limp seems much better this morning.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "writing buddy needed! 9 sentences more in Susan Spann's voice. mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre. this is from a bigger story btw" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro watched Hidetaro. Hidetaro watched the rocks. The samurai's right hand clenched into a fist and then gradually relaxed, but otherwise he did not move.\n\nAfter almost two minutes, he turned his face to Hiro and said, \"The limp was an act, put on to make you believe I did not murder my brother.\"\n\nHiro narrowed his eyes. \"Why would you need a limp for that?\"\n\n\"A dragging foot leaves different prints from one that lifts normally,\" Hidetaro said.\n\nHiro wondered how he knew about the footprints if he hadn't seen Sayuri, but decided to take an indirect path to the answer.\n\n\"What made you consider yourself a suspect?\"\n\n\"I am the older brother, but Hideyoshi had more success." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I depended upon his goodwill for everything from my clothes to the food I eat. I had the good fortune to fall in love with a woman, and the misfortune to have my brother favor her too.\n\n\"Any one of those could provide a motive for murder. Only a fool would not consider me a suspect, particularly when no other comes easily to mind.\"\n\nHiro turned to face Hidetaro. \"Shall I ask the obvious question, or would you prefer to answer without my asking?\"\n\n\"I did not kill him.\" The samurai's eyes remained on the stones and his posture did not change.\n\n\"And the next, also obvious, question?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"I do not know who killed him. Our cousin Mitsuhide recently swore allegiance to Lord Oda, but I doubt the shogun would kill a friend for the acts of a distant relative. In addition, I am still alive and so is Nobuhide. If the shogun wanted vengeance, he wouldn't have stopped with Yoshi.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mention of Nobuhide gave Hiro an opening." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Have you seen your brother's family since his death?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yesterday morning. I tried to persuade Nobuhide of Sayuri's innocence, but he would not believe me. That is why I went to see Matto-san.\"\n\nHiro ignored the mispronunciation of Father Mateo's name. \"How long have you known Sayuri?\"\n\n\"Yoshi invited me to the Sakura at cherry blossom season, to see the girl's debut. I didn't expect much. My brother was always bragging about some beauty from the Sakura. They rarely amounted to anything. Sayuri was the exception.\n\n\"I never thought I would care for a woman.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hidetaro's gaze lost its sharpness as emotion took hold." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include \"When most women smile, their faces become masks. The smile doesn't reach their eyes.\" somewhere in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But Sayuri is not like any other woman.\"\n\nHidetaro fell silent as if struggling for an explanation. At last he said, \"She laughs at my feeble jokes, and when she smiles at me she means it.\"\n\nIt was a strange compliment, but one that suggested honesty. Hiro would have discounted comparisons to birdsong or the moon, but Hidetaro's simple phrasing rang true.\n\nIt also gave Hiro an opportunity to learn more about the samurai. \"What do you mean?\"\n\nHidetaro raised a hand to his face. \"When most women smile, their faces become masks. The smile doesn't reach their eyes.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He demonstrated. His lips turned up and his eyes glittered with feeling but their edges didn't crinkle with real joy." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Then he smiled a second time, in earnest.\n\n\"You see?\" he asked. \"A true smile begins in the eyes.\"\n\n\"I never noticed,\" Hiro lied. \"Is that why you wanted to marry her?\"\n\nIt wasn't a normal choice. Most samurai would never marry a commoner, let alone a woman in the entertainment trade. Hidetaro's monastic tendencies made the decision even more unusual. Few men would allow a woman to change the course of an ascetic life." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That, and the fact that she returned my affection.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro gave an uncomfortable smile. \"You may see the difference in our ages, but Sayuri did not mind it.\"\n\nHiro found that surprising too, especially since the girl had talents to match her looks. Young, beautiful women rarely fell in love with substantially older men.\n\nUnlike Hidetaro, the shinobi sought a deeper, and probably financial, explanation. He wondered where a destitute samurai found the money to buy a performer's contract and whether Sayuri believed Hidetaro had silver hidden in his purse as well as his hair. Social convention prevented him from asking.\n\n\"Did Mayuri negotiate much on the contract price?\" Hiro wondered aloud.\n\nHidetaro's cheek twitched. \"Not as much as I would have liked.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Perhaps she will reduce it more because of all the blood.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro realized a moment too late that his effort to flush out a useful response had overstepped the boundaries of politeness." }, { "from": "system", "value": "can you add this somewhere in your response:\n\"Go on without me. This will take a minute.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro stood up. \"I'm afraid I have an appointment. Please excuse my rudeness, but I must leave.\"\n\nHiro stood up and bowed. \"Thank you for speaking with me. I apologize if my words have offended.\"\n\nThey left the temple together. When they reached the abbot's quarters Hidetaro paused and reached down to adjust his katana.\n\nHe gave Hiro an apologetic smile. \"Go on without me. This will take a minute.\"\n\nHiro started up the path toward Tsuten-kyo, stifling a smile at the samurai's clumsy attempt at deception. Such an awkward effort might fool the guards at provincial border stations but they would never mislead a shinobi." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro suspected where Hidetaro was going." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He was tempted to follow and see whether Hidetaro managed to see Sayuri, but the knowledge would not help his investigation, so he decided to check on Father Mateo instead." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for five sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "At the church Hiro found Ana on her hands and knees, polishing the floor and grumbling to herself. She looked up as the shinobi's shadow fell across the doorway. Her ancient face condensed into a scowl.\n\n\"Of all the cats in the world,\" she said, shaking her cleaning cloth in his direction, \"I should have known you would pick the defective one.\"\n\nHiro stopped. \"What?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Ana pointed at Father Mateo's room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The sliding door stood open. Hiro heard a rustling, like silk rubbing against tatami mats.\n\nAna rose up on her knees and rested her fists on her hips. \"That cat ate Father Mateo's Bible!\"\n\nHiro started toward the room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Behind him, Ana went back to her work." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hm,\" she sniffed, \"ten thousand cats in Kyoto. He picks the one that eats paper instead of mice.\"\n\nHiro paused in the doorway of the little room. Father Mateo sat cross-legged on the tatami, scrubbing at a dark splotch on the floor. He held a wet rag marked with stains that looked like ink.\n\nA sheet of blank parchment lay on the floor at his side, with a dirty but empty inkwell on top of it." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Remnants of glistening liquid clung to the bottom and a black swatch over the side suggested a spill." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The priest's beloved leather-bound Bible lay open in the writing alcove. The upper right corner of the open page was missing, along with the first few words in the right-hand column. At a distance it looked torn, but Hiro suspected the kitten was to blame.\n\nHe felt terrible and didn't know what to say. After trying several options in his mind, he settled on a statement of the obvious." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did my kitten do that?\"\n\nIt was the first time Hiro referred to the cat as his own, and he did it intentionally. He had brought the animal into the house. That made it his, and he was responsible for it.\n\nFather Mateo nodded and set the rag on top of the stained tatami." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I went to the kitchen to add more water to my ink, and when I returned she was eating Paul's letter to the Romans. I dropped the inkwell trying to shoo her off.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I am sorry. Can the book be fixed?\"\n\n\"Only one verse is missing,\" Father Mateo said, \"and under the circumstances I'm not likely to forget it.\" He paused and then recited, \"'For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God'—kittens included.\"\n\nHiro would have felt relief, but the Jesuit's smile seemed forced.\n\n\"I am sorry,\" he repeated." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"God will forgive the kitten, and you, and I would never presume to hold a grudge on His behalf,\" Father Mateo said." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Besides, we have a more serious problem. Luis has disappeared.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: The user will write a bit then you need to write around eight sentences continuing directly from the user's text. Characters and lore may appear without context - work with what's given.\n\nAuthor style: Susan Spann" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What do you mean, disappeared?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"When I woke this morning, Luis was gone,\" Father Mateo explained. \"At first I thought he was sleeping, but when he didn't get up for breakfast I checked his room. He wasn't there, and his horse isn't in the stable.\"\n\n\"Did he go to the warehouse?\" Hiro would not have saddled a horse for the ten-minute walk to the Portuguese shop, but Luis never walked when he could ride.\n\n\"The travel papers are also gone. The imperial ones, that grant access beyond Kyoto.\"\n\n\"Your pass?\" Hiro's stomach clenched.\n\n\"The pass,\" Father Mateo corrected." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The emperor granted only one for my household. I think he believed we would always travel together.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"More likely he wanted to keep you from going to two different places at once,\" Hiro said, \"to track your movements more easily. If Luis took the pass you can't leave Kyoto.\"\n\nFather Mateo frowned at the implication. \"I wasn't leaving. I'm more concerned about where Luis has gone.\"\n\n\"Isn't it obvious?\" Hiro was furious. \"He's run off to save his cowardly life at the cost of yours and mine.\"\n\nFather Mateo started to object, but then sighed. \"It does look that way. He's never left the city without telling me in advance.\"\n\nHiro turned back to the common room. \"Ana!\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You don't have to yell,\" the housekeeper declared." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She put down her rag and stood up. \"I'm old, not deaf.\"\n\n\"Do you know when Luis left or where he was going?\"\n\n\"I heard a horse just after dark last night,\" she said. \"I assumed it was Luis, since you don't ride and Father Mateo's congregation was arriving for prayer.\"\n\n\"Fourteen hours,\" Hiro said. \"We'll never catch him. He's past the shogun's second barricade, no matter which direction he went.\"\n\nThe shogun and most warlords erected barricades at intervals along the highways and at the borders of the lands that they controlled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "There taxes were charged, goods inspected, and travelers' papers viewed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Anyone without a pass or a good excuse would be turned back or restrained, but the emperor's seal guaranteed that Luis would pass quickly and unmolested.\n\n\"Perhaps he'll come back on his own,\" Father Mateo suggested.\n\n\"He'd better,\" Hiro said, \"because if he doesn't and Nobuhide kills you, I will hunt that Portuguese traitor down and make him beg to die.\"\n\n\"Hiro,\" the priest said, \"don't say that. I do not want Luis to die and I do not want you to kill him. Vengeance belongs to God alone.\n\n\"Promise me you will not harm Luis, no matter what happens.\"\n\nHiro didn't answer." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Hiro,\" Father Mateo warned.\n\n\"Perhaps it won't be necessary. I have new evidence that suggests Lord Oda is responsible for Hideyoshi's death.\"\n\n\"Really?\" Father Mateo stood up and wiped his hands on his kimono.\n\nAna saw the rag on the tatami and bustled into the room. She knelt and shook her head at the ink spot on the floor. \"Hm.\"\n\nFather Mateo gave Hiro a worried look and left the room. Hiro followed him out.\n\n\"So,\" the Jesuit said, \"who killed Akechi Hideyoshi?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro had already started toward the swinging door." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'll tell you a theory on the way.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for five sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As they walked, Hiro explained what he had learned from the tailor, though he did not mention Yaso's name." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He also omitted Kazu and the shogunate.\n\n\"So the merchant from Nagoya was really a spy who killed Hideyoshi to avoid discovery,\" Father Mateo said. \"Do you think Nobuhide will believe it?\"\n\n\"No,\" Hiro said. \"This solution relies on two assumptions, and I cannot reveal my informant's name. More importantly, I'm not convinced the murder happened that way.\"\n\n\"Then why are we going to see Nobuhide?\" Father Mateo asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"That is an assumption too,\" Hiro said with a smile." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"A safe one, based on the fact that his house is directly ahead of us.\" Father Mateo pointed at the Akechi home, directly ahead on the left-hand side of the road.\n\n\"An incorrect one,\" Hiro said. \"We are going to see Akechi Sato.\n\n\"I need more time to solve this murder. Nobuhide won't agree, and this theory won't convince him, but it might be strong enough to persuade his mother.\"\n\n\"Or his sister,\" Father Mateo agreed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro gave the priest an incredulous look." }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must use the word 'chance' exactly 2 times in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yoshiko? We have a better chance of teaching my cat to sing.\"\n\n\"She's a woman too.\"\n\n\"In body only,\" Hiro said, \"and barely that. No, our best chance lies with Hideyoshi's wife.\"\n\nThey walked up the path to the house. Three pairs of shoes sat outside the entrance, the tiny pair that could only belong to Akechi Sato, a pair of mud-spattered geta, and the decrepit servant's sandals Hiro had seen on their previous visit." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The shinobi knocked on the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Shuffling steps approached from the other side, and the door swung open to reveal an elderly manservant." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He wore a brown kimono with no crest and his well-worn tabi showed evidence of repair." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He bowed and waited for the samurai to speak." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Good morning,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We have come to see Akechi Sato.\"\n\nThe servant nodded. \"I will see if my mistress is available.\"\n\nHe disappeared into the house.\n\nHiro leaned toward Father Mateo and whispered, \"Agree with everything I say.\"\n\nSoft footsteps heralded Sato's arrival." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wore a black kimono with no decoration and matching black obi. The hem of her inner kimono showed at the neckline. In defiance of tradition, that too was black. She wore no makeup and no visible jewelry except for the silver pins that held her hair in place. Her eyes showed no redness or puffiness, but she looked older than the day before and bent down, like a lily after a thunderstorm." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro suspected that, like the lily, Sato's brokenness was not permanent." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A strong woman's spirit was not easily crushed." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'mother' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro and Father Mateo bowed. When they rose, Yoshiko had joined her mother in the doorway. Hiro blinked in surprise. He had not heard the samurai woman approach.\n\nLike her mother, Yoshiko had shed her colored robes for black, but the daughter's kimono was cut in male lines and she wore a samurai's obi instead of the larger one women preferred." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her hair was freshly oiled and pulled into a topknot. Even in mourning, Yoshiko remained a samurai.\n\nThe women bowed politely but not deeply.\n\n\"May we help you?\" Yoshiko asked.\n\n\"We have identified your father's killer,\" Hiro said. \"Sayuri is innocent.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't believe you.\" Yoshiko narrowed her eyes. \"Nobuhide told me what happened. The woman was alone with my father all night and in the morning he was dead. No one else entered the room. My father did not kill himself. No one else could have done it.\"\n\nHiro's mind prickled in warning. Leaving guests outside violated the samurai code, and the day before Yoshiko had invited them in at once." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Something had caused her hospitality to vanish without a trace." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sato peered from behind her daughter. She looked at Father Mateo with longing, as though she wanted to invite him in.\n\nHiro took a chance. \"One of Lord Oda's spies came to Kyoto to purchase weapons from the Portuguese. We believe he asked your father for assistance and killed Hideyoshi when he refused to cooperate.\"\n\n\"A spy who conveniently disappeared before you could capture him?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yoshiko asked with disdain." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You shame yourself, trying to persuade my mother with a lie. Go away.\"\n\nShe stepped back and closed the door in Hiro's face." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's engage in a collaborative writing exercise. I'll provide a starting point (which may include pre-existing characters and lore), and You'll continue with 11 sentences in the style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A moment later the door swung open again.\n\n\"Are you still here?\" Yoshiko asked.\n\n\"We have hardly had time to leave,\" Hiro said.\n\nYoshiko sighed and opened the door. \"My mother wishes to offer you tea. She wants to hear more of your explanation, though I warn you that I will not forgive an attempt to defraud her.\"\n\nShe gestured toward the interior of the house. \"Come inside.\"\n\nSato stood at the far end of the entry chamber. As the visitors stepped into the house, she bowed and led them into the common room.\n\nA haze of pale blue smoke hung in the air, and the perfume of sandalwood incense overwhelmed even the scent of the cedar beams. Hiro loathed the cloying odor, though it was common in houses of mourning. In addition to its religious significance, incense masked the smell of a corpse in decay." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He saw other signs of mourning too." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The common room hearth had no fire, and the tokonoma sat empty in recognition of the patriarch's recent death." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The empty alcove reminded Hiro of his own, although his remained perpetually vacant by choice.\n\nWhen they were seated and the manservant brought tea, Yoshiko said, \"Why should we believe your tale? Lord Oda had no reason to kill my father.\"\n\n\"Wasn't he a traitor like his cousin Mitsuhide?\" Hiro asked the question bluntly, in violation of every social rule but also knowing that Yoshiko could not take offense because of her own rudeness. He hoped his abruptness would provoke a useful admission.\n\nFather Mateo looked shocked. Akechi Sato gasped and raised her hands to her mouth. Yoshiko narrowed her eyes and clenched her jaw, but recovered much more quickly than Hiro expected. Within moments her face had resumed its samurai stillness.\n\n\"I see you have learned about our clan's embarrassment,\" she said. \"My father was not a traitor. He tried to convince Mitsuhide to change his mind, but the fool would not be dissuaded." }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'priest' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If you know about Mitsuhide, however, you also understand why Lord Oda would not harm my father, or any other member of my clan.\"\n\n\"On the contrary,\" Hiro said, \"killing your father would prove the defection was real.\"\n\nAs the words left Hiro's mouth he had a sudden flash of insight. He opened his mouth to speak but closed it quickly with the words unspoken. It was only an assumption, not a fact. At least until he could find the facts to support it.\n\n\"Killing my father was more difficult than you believe,\" Yoshiko said.\n\nFather Mateo gave Hiro an alarmed look, and the shinobi realized the priest had taken Yoshiko's words for a confession. Hiro shook his head slightly and the priest relaxed, though he looked both nervous and confused.\n\n\"As I told you before, my father has killed kunoichi,\" Yoshiko continued. \"Not only the one who tried to assassinate the shogun but also another, sent to take my father's life. It happened five years ago in the very teahouse where he died." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My father disarmed her and killed her with her own poisoned dagger." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory inclusion (with quotes): He would have heard the killer coming, yet he allowed that person to approach him from behind. He must have recognized the killer's voice, or perhaps her gait." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He should have done the same to this assassin.\n\n\"Which leads me to believe that my father knew his killer.\"\n\n\"Do you have evidence of that?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Someone slit my father's throat while he waited for Sayuri to return from the latrine,\" Yoshiko said. \"He would have heard the killer coming, yet he allowed that person to approach him from behind. He must have recognized the killer's voice, or perhaps her gait.\"\n\nA strange gleam entered her eye as she looked at Hiro. \"Surely you could recognize a woman's gait?\"\n\nHiro ignored the comment and the unexpected implication. \"So you believe Nobuhide is correct, that Sayuri killed him?\"\n\n\"If the woman didn't do it she was involved. How else could a killer have entered his room, slain him, and left without being seen?\"\n\n\"Do you agree?\" Father Mateo asked Sato." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She smiled sadly. \"I do not know who killed my husband, nor do I worry about the dead. I may go to him, but he will not return to me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You know King David?\" Father Mateo asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Should I not? After all, I am a Christian.\"\n\nThe Jesuit's face broke into a smile of delight. \"How did you become a Christian?\"\n\nSato shook her head and looked at her hands, which lay folded in her lap. \"I do not want to bore you with an elderly woman's tales.\"\n\n\"Please,\" Father Mateo said, \"I would like to hear it.\"\n\nHiro did not want to hear it. He wanted to leave and prove his new theory correct, preferably after obtaining a few extra days to investigate.\n\nHe tried to catch the Jesuit's eye, but the priest refused to look in his direction. Hiro realized with frustration that his friend was being deliberately obtuse.\n\n\"I married very young,\" Sato said, \"but for years I bore no children. It was embarrassing. A samurai wife has one duty—to provide her husband with an heir. Yoshi was patient and did not send me away, but I grew desperate. I prayed to Buddhist gods, Shinto kami, and every other spirit I could find. Mostly I prayed to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. I promised that if she gave me a child I would put a statue of her in my home and pray to it every day as long as I lived.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But Kannon did not help you,\" Father Mateo said in his most understanding tone.\n\n\"No.\" An impish grin came over Sato's face. Her eyes glittered with delight at having fooled the foreign priest. \"Kannon gave me a daughter, Yoshiko.\"\n\nMother and daughter exchanged a smile. It was the first real emotion Hiro had seen on Yoshiko's face, but the expression disappeared almost at once.\n\n\"Your husband must have been pleased,\" Father Mateo said.\n\n\"Most men would prefer a son,\" Sato said, \"but Kannon helped there too. Yoshi loved Yoshiko from the moment she was born. He raised her as a samurai, exactly like a boy.\" She paused. \"I didn't like that much at first, but they seemed so happy that in time I grew happy too. Now I am very glad it worked out this way.\"\n\nShe glanced at Yoshiko like a child who reveals a family secret and doesn't know what to do. Hiro wondered which part of the story Sato wished she hadn't told." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Just before the silence grew awkward, Yoshiko prompted, \"You were telling them about the foreign god.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sato nodded. \"The year Yoshiko turned thirteen she had her genpuku.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She wrinkled her brow in concern and looked at the priest. \"Do you know this word?\"\n\n\"The ceremony when a samurai becomes a man.\" Father Mateo glanced at Yoshiko and added, \"That is, an adult, with the right to wear two swords.\"\n\nSato nodded, pleased that she didn't have to explain. \"Yoshiko—her name was Chiko before genpuku—learned very fast. She had her ceremony at thirteen. Her father gave her a pair of heirloom swords.\"\n\n\"So he didn't mind that he had a daughter and no son.\" Father Mateo said.\n\n\"He was satisfied,\" Sato agreed, \"but I felt like a failure. Just before the genpuku I heard that strangers from across the sea had brought a new god to Japan. I thought perhaps this foreign god might give me another child, so I asked Hideyoshi to take me to see the foreigners.\n\n\"He didn't believe your God would hear me, or even speak Japanese, but he agreed because he wanted one of the foreign weapons for his collection.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Did you meet Francis Xavier?\" Father Mateo asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No, a foreigner called Pinto-san,\" Sato said. \"He was not a priest, though he said he intended to become one when he returned to his land across the sea. He was tall, with skin like a ghost and a nose the size of a rice bowl. I felt badly for him, because he smelled terrible and the stink made his big nose red and runny.\"\n\nHiro suspected the running nose was red from alcohol rather than stink, but interrupting would only delay their departure even more.\n\n\"Pinto-san told me the Jesus god walked on earth like a man. That gave me hope. A god who had a mother might have pity on a woman who wanted a son. Pinto-san taught me a prayer and said I could ask this Jesus god for anything, but he also said that the Jesus god would only give me things if his father, the Almighty God, wanted me to have them. He said this many times, that Jesus could always hear me but only granted prayers when his father allowed him to.\"\n\n\"Yes,\" Father Mateo said. \"That's how it works with Jesus.\"\n\n\"No different than our Japanese kami,\" Sato said, \"except that kami don't even listen unless they want to.\"\n\nHiro's foot went to sleep. Ordinarily he would have suffered through the prickling irritation, but his patience with Sato's story was at an end. He wiggled first his foot and then his leg, hoping the widow would notice and conclude her recitation.\n\nYoshiko gave him a look that hovered between disbelief and understanding." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He raised his eyebrows a fraction in return." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Yoshiko started to speak but Sato continued." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I promised your Jesus the same thing I promised Kannon. Within a month I was pregnant with Taromaru—that is, Nobuhide.\" Sato smiled apologetically. \"We called him Taromaru as a child.\"\n\nYoshiko leaned back and frowned at her mother. Sato did not notice or did not care.\n\nHiro suspected the latter.\n\n\"When I became pregnant,\" Sato continued, \"I tried to have a statue made for God, but then I learned that He prefers to be worshipped as a cross.\"\n\n\"Not exactly,\" Father Mateo said. \"The cross is a symbol to remind us of His sacrifice. We don't worship the image itself.\"\n\n\"Just like kami,\" Sato agreed. \"The god is in the tree, except that the kami is the tree and Jesus is not the cross.\"\n\nHiro smothered a smile." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 12 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He could see theology struggling with pragmatism in Father Mateo's thoughts. Pragmatism won.\n\n\"I am glad you know Jesus,\" the priest said. \"I hope you continue to pray to Him.\"\n\nSato looked offended. \"I promised, didn't I?\"\n\nYoshiko stood up and bowed. \"Thank you for your visit.\"\n\n\"Thank you for listening to us,\" Hiro said.\n\n\"Please tell Akechi-sama that we are sorry to have missed him,\" Father Mateo added.\n\nHiro was just about to use that opening to ask for additional time when Yoshiko narrowed her eyes and said, \"You may refer to my brother as Akechi-san, not -sama.\"\n\n\"I apologize for my imperfect Japanese,\" Father Mateo said. \"I thought an heir was addressed with the highest honorific.\"\n\n\"Your Japanese and your understanding are correct,\" Sato said, \"but Nobuhide is not my husband's heir. Yoshiko is.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's engage in a collaborative writing exercise. I'll provide a starting point (which may include pre-existing characters and lore), and You'll continue with 11 sentences in the style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro found it difficult to hide his surprise. \"Yoshiko is the heir?\"\n\n\"Yes,\" Yoshiko said, \"since before Nobuhide was born.\"\n\n\"Does the law recognize a female heir?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\n\"Only if the patriarch leaves a will that names her specifically,\" Hiro said.\n\n\"Which my husband did,\" Sato said. \"He wrote it years ago.\"\n\n\"Before Nobuhide's birth?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"No,\" Sato replied. \"Fortunately he wrote it after that, so no one can claim an accident or omission.\"\n\nHiro wanted to see that will, but needed a reason that wouldn't sound suspicious. He glanced at Father Mateo and tilted his head slightly, hoping without real hope that the Jesuit would understand and find a reason to ask." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How fascinating,\" Father Mateo said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I have never seen a Japanese will. I wonder if they differ much from the Portuguese tradition.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Months of teaching the Jesuit to understand coded looks and unspoken signals finally paid off in earnest.\n\n\"Would you like to see it?\" Yoshiko asked.\n\n\"I would be honored.\"\n\n\"Please sit down,\" Yoshiko said. \"I will retrieve it for you.\"\n\nShe left the room as the guests returned to their positions by the hearth. Sato accompanied them with a pleasant smile, though her forehead wrinkled with something that looked like sorrow.\n\nYoshiko returned, carrying a weathered but expensive bamboo case. She knelt by the hearth, opened the cap at the end of the case, and shook a parchment scroll from the bamboo cylinder. The scroll held its shape, expanding only a little when released.\n\nYoshiko extended the scroll to Father Mateo, using two hands." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He accepted it the same way and unrolled it carefully.\n\n\"May I ask Hiro to translate?\" he asked. \"I do not read your language well enough to comprehend such an important document.\"\n\n\"Of course.\" Yoshiko dipped her head in consent.\n\nHiro took the scroll and read it quickly to himself. It was written in tiny characters composed of fine, narrow strokes. The calligraphy showed both native skill and years of careful study. Not a single misplaced brush mark marred the scroll.\n\nAkechi Hideyoshi's personal seal was stamped at the bottom in vermillion ink to verify the will. The pasty ink was glossy and slightly raised, as required for a documentary seal. Hiro saw no deficits in construction or execution." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He traced his finger down the page as he read the scroll aloud." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"'I, Akechi Hideyoshi, set these words to parchment in the seventh year of the Shogunate of Ashikaga Yoshifuji.'\" Hiro paused and looked at the priest. \"Yoshifuji was the Shogun's childhood name. He took the name Yoshiteru in adulthood.\"\n\n\"Thank you.\" Father Mateo gave a little laugh. \"Does that explain when the will was written? I'm still not very good with the Japanese calendar.\"\n\n\"It means this was written twelve years ago.\" Hiro looked down and continued reading. \"'It is my will that upon my death, my daughter, Akechi Yoshiko, will inherit my entire estate, including all money, lands, and property owned by me or to which I am entitled. If my stipend continues beyond my death, it should transfer to her in its entirety.\n\n\"'I wish for Yoshiko to provide financial support for her mother, Akechi Sato, and for my brother, Akechi Hidetaro, as long as they live. She should permit my son, Akechi Nobuhide, to continue to reside in the family home. In all matters affecting the clan, Yoshiko's decision is final. I trust her judgment as though she were my son." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"'Life is short and sorrowful. A wise samurai spends his life prepared to die. When I leave this life, know that I was prepared.'\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required text (preserve exact wording): \"I agree, but my brother did not think so.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro's right finger grazed the seal. \"Akechi Hideyoshi.\"\n\nHe rubbed the finger against his thumb but felt no waxy transfer. The seal was not soft or wet.\n\n\"It is very well drafted,\" Father Mateo said.\n\nYoshiko laughed. \"I agree, but my brother did not think so.\"\n\n\"Was he angry?\" the priest asked.\n\n\"Extremely. Nobuhide expected the will would name him as our father's heir.\"\n\n\"Can he challenge it?\" Father Mateo wondered.\n\n\"No,\" Sato said. Her voice was firm. \"That is my husband's will. I knew when he wrote it and where he stored it, and I retrieved it after his death.\"\n\nHiro explained. \"A wife's testimony is final if she saw the will and knew its contents before her husband died.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sato nodded. \"I did, and that is Hideyoshi's will.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro returned the scroll to Yoshiko." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She rolled it tightly and returned it to its case. As she laid the bamboo cylinder on the tatami she asked, \"Did you have any other questions?\"\n\n\"We had hoped you might persuade Nobuhide to give us a few more days to find Hideyoshi's killer.\" Hiro answered Yoshiko but his eyes met Sato's as he spoke. \"It would be most unfortunate if an innocent woman died tomorrow just for lack of time.\"\n\nSato nodded agreement. She looked at Yoshiko, eyebrows raised in a silent request.\n\n\"I am sorry,\" Yoshiko said, \"but I cannot grant your request. Not without further evidence. If, by tomorrow, you have found this spy or have proof that he killed my father I will reconsider.\"\n\n\"Thank you.\" It was the only response Hiro could give.\n\n\"May I ask another question?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\nYoshiko looked at the priest with interest.\n\n\"I apologize for my presumptuousness,\" he said, \"but I am curious about Japanese laws and customs. Will your father's stipend continue after his death?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"They usually do not,\" Yoshiko said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Did he have other income?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "the priest asked. \"Business interests, or an inheritance?\"\n\nYoshiko and Sato exchanged a look.\n\nThe older woman answered. \"Hideyoshi was his father's heir, but that money has been gone for many years. We are hopeful that the shogun will show mercy and allow us to retain his stipend.\"\n\n\"How do Japanese address the issue of creditors?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\nYoshiko tilted her head to the side. \"I do not know what you mean.\"\n\n\"Did your father owe anyone money when he died? Like rice merchants or tailors? Take the teahouse, for example. How will his final bill be paid? Will there even be a bill, since he died there?\"\n\nHiro was impressed with Father Mateo's unexpected subtlety. The shinobi had wondered how Hideyoshi managed to afford the Sakura on a subsistence-level stipend, but convention prohibited him from asking. He hadn't thought to address the topic as a legal issue, not that the tactic would not have worked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Only a foreigner could ask such intrusive questions without causing serious offense." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'would' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I would be... disappointed if Mayuri expected payment for the night my father died.\"\n\n\"Did he have other debts?\" Father Mateo asked. \"How would they be paid?\"\n\n\"We have a little savings,\" Sato said, \"and Nobuhide's income.\"\n\n\"The will mentioned support for Akechi Hidetaro,\" Father Mateo said. \"Will you still provide that support if the stipend is revoked?\"\n\n\"It was my father's wish,\" Yoshiko said.\n\n\"Did your father support his brother during his lifetime?\" the priest asked.\n\n\"It was his duty as the Akechi heir.\"\n\n\"Did Hidetaro request more money recently?\" Hiro asked.\n\nYoshiko seemed to realize that an informative conversation had just become an interrogation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She thought longer than usual before responding." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes, he did. He did not say why, but he came here the night my father died to ask for money. My father refused.\"\n\n\"Do you know why he wanted it?\" Hiro asked.\n\nYoshiko shook her head as she looked him in the eye. \"No.\"\n\n\"Did they argue about it?\"\n\n\"No. Where there is no money, there is no point in argument.\" Yoshiko leaned backward. \"But your questions suggest that you suspect my uncle as well as an unknown spy.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's work on this story segment. I'll provide a part, and you'll continue with six sentences in the style of Susan Spann. This is mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre and characters might appear without introduction." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I apologize if my question held an inappropriate implication.\" Hiro dipped his head in humility. \"That was not my intention.\"\n\nYoshiko nodded acceptance, but her eyes narrowed suspiciously.\n\nFather Mateo stood up and bowed. \"Thank you for teaching me about your customs. May I pray again for your father before I leave?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I would like that,\" Sato said quickly. Yoshiko's lips pursed in objection but she said nothing.\n\nSato led them across the room and slid open the paneled door to Hideyoshi's armory. The room looked almost exactly as it had the previous day, except that a bowl of cooked rice sat on the floor outside the coffin at the end nearest Hideyoshi's head. A single chopstick stood upright in the rice. As Hiro entered the room he noticed a second object beside the bowl." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A thin vase held a single hydrangea blossom, the same type and color as the ones in the room where Hideyoshi died." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The coincidence seemed too great for an accident." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro's new theory about the spy gained momentum in his head." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo knelt beside Hideyoshi and bowed his head in prayer. Hiro stood just inside the doorway and studied the room for anything out of place. He saw nothing else new or different.\n\nHis gaze lingered on the tokonoma. The neko-te seemed to mock him from their semicircle of pegs. He couldn't shake the conviction that those claws had murdered their owner, despite Sato's explanation for the broken blade." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The priest finished his prayer. As Yoshiko led them to the door Hiro said, \"Your mother selected a fine set of funeral armor.\"\n\nThe samurai woman glanced at him from the corner of her eye. \"My mother did not select the armor. Nobuhide did.\"\n\n\"Well, you have done a fine job preparing him for...\" Father Mateo's voice trailed off uncertainly.\n\n\"Cremation,\" Yoshiko said. \"My mother requested a Christian burial but Nobuhide insisted our father should not decay in the ground. I agree with that disposition, though not with the way my father appears.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She paused as if consumed by an inner struggle. Hiro wondered what she wanted to say but felt that she should not.\n\n\"My father should have worn the armor he wore in battle,\" she said at last, \"not the ceremonial breastplate my brother chose.\"\n\nAt last Hiro understood. A samurai did not criticize family members, but Yoshiko wanted him to know that the inappropriate armor was not her fault. He wondered why she cared what he believed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Given her earlier comment about women's gaits, he sincerely hoped she didn't have an interest in him beyond the investigation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"By the time I returned from my morning ride and learned about Father's death, Nobuhide had already washed and dressed the body,\" she continued. \"It was too late to change it.\"\n\nHiro nodded. There was no point in platitudes or false reassurances. They both knew Nobuhide had chosen wrong, and that further handling would only dishonor the corpse. Some things could not be changed.\n\nIn the entry they exchanged bows." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If I may ask,\" Hiro said, \"who knew about your father's will before he died?\"\n\n\"Only my mother,\" Yoshiko said. \"She was there when he wrote it. I saw it for the first time yesterday.\"\n\n\"Yet you knew you were his heir?\"\n\nYoshiko smiled. \"My father has always favored me. I didn't need a will to tell me his intentions.\"\n\n\"Who knows about the will now?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 7 sentences." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'hidetaro' 2 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Nobuhide, of course, and my uncle Hidetaro.\"\n\n\"Who told Hidetaro?\"\n\n\"I did, yesterday, when he came to pay his respects and to pray for my father's soul. I do not believe in gods myself, though I understand that some people find comfort in faith.\"\n\n\"How long did he pray?\"\n\nShe looked up at the door frame, thinking. \"Half an hour, perhaps? He may not have prayed the entire time. I left him alone with my father and saw him only when he left.\"\n\nHiro bowed. \"Thank you again for your courtesy.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Write three sentences sentences in the style of Susan Spann spawning from what the user wrote. Note: Characters and worldbuilding may appear mid-story." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As they approached the Kamo River bridge, Nobuhide rode toward them on a dappled gray gelding." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He appeared to be heading home, but when he saw the foreigner he pulled his horse to a halt and glared.\n\n\"What are you doing here?\" he demanded.\n\n\"This is a public road,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We are walking on it.\"\n\n\"You are walking away from my house,\" Nobuhide accused. \"The magistrate's order gives you no right to harass my mother.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Or your sister,\" Hiro added.\n\nNobuhide snorted. \"That fox spirit can take care of herself. I suppose she told you how she cheated me out of my inheritance.\"\n\n\"She showed us your father's will,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Have you reason to suspect a trick?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Not a new one.\" Nobuhide scowled. \"She has always been his favorite, but I never suspected he would give her the inheritance too. No wonder he kept his will a secret.\"\n\nHe pointed at the priest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But I still have the right of vengeance, and I intend to carry it out. Tomorrow your head will roll.\"\n\n\"Not if we find the real killer first,\" Hiro said.\n\n\"I'll help you out,\" Nobuhide replied." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The killer is at the teahouse, under guard.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Perhaps,\" Hiro said. \"Perhaps not. Did you know a man from Nagoya visited the Sakura the night your father died?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nobuhide looked startled. \"What are you talking about?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And when was the last time you saw your father's brother?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hidetaro?\" Nobuhide's nose wrinkled as though the name carried an odor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you think he had something to do with my father's death?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We are investigating several possibilities. The point is that the answer is far from clear.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It seems clear enough to me.\"\n\n\"What about your sister?\" Hiro asked. \"Do you know where she was the night your father died?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"At home, as usual.\" Nobuhide paused. \"She said she told you that yesterday.\"\n\n\"She did. I was just making sure you didn't have something to tell us, since she isn't here now.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you think I'm afraid of a woman?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Nobuhide's scowl returned with a vengeance." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I would have no problem calling her a liar. That is, if she ever lied.\"\n\n\"And where were you, exactly, two nights ago?\"\n\nNobuhide's left hand released the reins and went to the hilt of his katana." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I am a yoriki, assistant to Magistrate Ishimaki, and a servant of the shogun. How dare you imply that I would kill my father.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I merely asked your whereabouts. I intended no implication.\"\n\nNobuhide sniffed. \"If you must know, I was at the House of the Floating Plums all night. I stayed with a girl named Umeha. Speak with her if you wish.\"\n\nHiro bowed. \"That will not be necessary.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nobuhide smiled without humor or goodwill. \"Make sure the priest shows up at the teahouse tomorrow. I will kill you both if I have to chase him down.\"\n\nAfter Nobuhide rode away Hiro turned south along the Kamo River road." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We're not going home?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\n\"No time,\" Hiro said. \"I need to talk with Sayuri.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Sayuri? Why?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I need to know more about her relationship with Hidetaro. Our Nagoya spy might not have left town after all.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll be your writing partner today. I will set the scene and character context, and you will continue with 7 sentences, keeping within the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Is Hidetaro the spy?\" Father Mateo sounded incredulous. \"What made you think of that?\"\n\n\"I'm not certain what I think,\" Hiro said, \"but this murder is more complex than it seems. Yoshiko claims she was home that night but her geta are covered in mud. Hidetaro had mud on his sandals and on his kimono. A man from Nagoya shows up and then disappears, and Mayuri burns her ledgers the next morning. I'd say that something is not what it seems, but that doesn't begin to describe the situation.\"\n\nThey walked down the river a little way and Father Mateo asked, \"Did you know Sato was a Christian?\"\n\nHiro nodded. \"That's why I thought she might give us the extra time.\"\n\n\"How did you know? I had no idea.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Her clothing gave the first clue. Some Japanese wear black in mourning but no woman wears a kimono and obi that match. The colors always contrast, and the inner kimono must be a third color since the inner hem shows above the neckline of the outer one. Yesterday, and again today, Akechi Sato wore all black, like a crow... or a Christian in mourning.\n\n\"Her reaction to you reinforced that initial impression. She showed no fear or wonder. She didn't startle or stare, and she showed no concern that your presence might defile her husband's body." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Mandatory: Your text must contain 'father' 3 times exactly" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "On the contrary, she thanked you for your prayers.\n\n\"Only a woman comfortable with foreigners would react to you that way, and since samurai women don't engage in outside business she had to have experience with priests.\"\n\n\"She could have seen me in the road,\" Father Mateo pointed out, \"or heard about me from Nobuhide.\"\n\n\"Who no doubt praised you in the highest possible terms.\"\n\nFather Mateo laughed. \"Probably not, at that. Still, it was a very good guess on your part. I thought you didn't deal in assumptions.\"\n\n\"I don't. Sato also wears a Christian cross on a chain around her neck. I saw it when she bowed.\"\n\nFather Mateo lifted his head as though he had an interesting thought." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What if Sato killed Hideyoshi?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro blinked. \"You don't think Sayuri could kill because she's a Christian, but you believe that elderly woman could? How do you reconcile that?\"\n\n\"Christians believe in monogamy. Sato might have been jealous of Sayuri, and she didn't have to hold the knife.\"\n\n\"Neko-te,\" Hiro corrected. \"I'm sure that's the type of weapon that killed him.\"\n\n\"Sato could have given the claws to whoever impersonated the spy.\"\n\n\"Possible but doubtful. From what I could tell, she actually believes in gods and wouldn't want to anger them. And if I remember correctly, your Jesus isn't very big on murder.\"\n\n\"But her husband was involved with another woman!\"\n\nHiro laughed. \"You don't know much about Japanese wives.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 8 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo looked offended. \"I know enough about women to know that they don't like being replaced.\"\n\n\"Entertainers are not replacements for wives. A wife bears children and keeps the household accounts. No one expects her to display any skill at singing or conversation. Wives provide security. Entertainers offer social interaction. They fill completely different roles.\"\n\n\"All women are good at conversation,\" Father Mateo argued, \"Japanese men just don't listen to most of them.\"\n\nHiro cocked an eyebrow at the priest. \"Forgive me, but I hardly consider a celibate priest an authority on women.\n\n\"Akechi Sato is not responsible for her husband's death. She doesn't have the strength to ride a horse or to walk all the way to the Sakura. Her sandals showed no hint of mud, so she wasn't out in the rain. She couldn't have wielded the weapon that killed her husband, either. Neko-te require hand strength she doesn't possess.\"\n\nThe priest looked relieved. \"I'm glad you think so. I agree, but I took the other side because I wanted to hear you say it.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Literary Collaboration:\n- Sentences: 12 sentences\n- Match character context\n- Genre: mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The four dōshin remained on guard outside the Sakura Teahouse, but they sat in a circle under one of the cherry trees instead of lurking by the path. As Hiro and Father Mateo approached, the youngest man startled and scooped something into his kimono sleeve. Dice, or possibly gambling sticks, unless Hiro missed his guess. Something to pass the time after the initial excitement of guarding a murderer died away, leaving only another routine wait.\n\nFaint chanting emanated from the house. It came from the direction of the garden, most likely due to an open veranda door.\n\n\"Are the priests still here?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\nHiro nodded. \"The purification will take almost a week, and Mayuri can't use the room until it's finished.\"\n\n\"That must be expensive,\" the priest said.\n\n\"You have no idea.\"\n\nHiro knocked on the teahouse door. The chanting increased slightly as Mayuri opened the door." }, { "from": "human", "value": "She looked irritated to see them, or possibly just irritated with all the inconvenience." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include \"There is nothing new for you to discover here and your presence makes the girls nervous.\" somewhere in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"We have come to see Sayuri,\" Hiro said.\n\nMayuri gave him a cold smile. \"There is nothing new for you to discover here and your presence makes the girls nervous.\"\n\n\"Are you refusing us admittance?\" Hiro asked.\n\nMayuri's smile widened and she opened the door a little more. \"Of course not. The Sakura is pleased to cooperate with your investigation. Please come in.\"\n\nThey found Sayuri in the same front room, wearing the same kimono she had changed into the day before. Her eyes seemed hollower, perhaps from lack of sleep, but she smiled when she saw the priest.\n\nFather Mateo started across the floor.\n\nHiro turned to Mayuri. \"Thank you. We will let you know when we have finished.\"\n\nShe nodded and closed the door without a word." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri looked from Father Mateo to Hiro." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Have you found the killer? Will Nobuhide let me go?\"\n\n\"Not yet,\" Hiro said. \"May I see your dagger?\"\n\nShe looked surprised. \"I don't carry a tanto.\"\n\nHiro wasn't fooled and he was finished playing. \"If you're an entertainer and not a prostitute, you have a weapon under that kimono. Produce it for me or I will find it myself.\"\n\nShe looked at him for a long moment, then reached her right hand into her left sleeve and withdrew a long, slender sheath. She snapped it open to reveal a painted fan with metal ribs connected by hand-painted paper panels that showed a city scene.\n\nSayuri closed the fan with a click and took the blades in her left hand. Her right hand drew the concealed dagger from the bottom of the sheath. The five-inch blade fit snugly in the largest rib of the fan. Its length and diameter were closer to a throwing knife than a tanto, or more properly a menhari-gata since it was concealed in a fan." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri spun the knife in her hand so the blade lay across her palm and offered the hilt to Hiro." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He accepted the weapon and examined it carefully, paying special attention to the grooves where the blade met the handle and where the handle fitted the sheath." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He saw no blood or suspicious marks. The polished metal shone like new, though the blade was not newly forged.\n\n\"Very nice,\" he said as he handed it back. \"A family heirloom?\"\n\nSayuri shook her head as she resheathed the dagger and returned it to her kimono. \"It was a gift from Mayuri. She carried it when she was an entertainer.\"\n\n\"Tell us again what happened the night Hideyoshi died,\" Hiro said. \"The truth this time.\"\n\n\"I told you the truth yesterday.\"\n\nHiro gestured to Father Mateo. \"Let's go. We can be halfway to Nagasaki by evening.\" He glanced at Sayuri as he started for the door. \"Good luck with Nobuhide tomorrow. I am sure Father Mateo will pray for your soul.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri grabbed the Jesuit's arm as he began to rise." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No, wait. I'll tell you everything.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's work on this story segment. I'll provide a part, and you'll continue with six sentences in the style of Susan Spann. This is mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre and characters might appear without introduction." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Akechi-san visited almost every night since my debut,\" Sayuri said, \"but he was a regular client of the teahouse even before I started as an apprentice.\n\n\"Two nights ago, he arrived shortly after sunset. I served him dinner and sake, and afterward I sang and danced. He got very drunk and stayed very late. I wanted him to leave, but he refused to go. He started telling me that he intended to become my exclusive patron.\" She gave Father Mateo a sidelong glance.\n\n\"An exclusive patron has rights not available to other men,\" Hiro explained.\n\nFather Mateo raised a hand and ran it through his hair.\n\n\"I hoped it was a lie,\" Sayuri said. \"Mayuri hadn't mentioned it to me." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He became insistent, trying to touch me, and I grew scared." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That's when I told him I needed to use the latrine and went to see Mayuri." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'guest' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She told me to return to the room and entertain my guest. She did not agree to intervene.\n\n\"I went to the latrine and hid there a very long time. Hideyoshi was so drunk, I didn't think he could stay awake very much longer. When I did return to the room he had fallen asleep. I stayed with him because Mayuri would be angry if I left a guest alone. I fell asleep too, and when I woke up he was dead.\"\n\nWith the exception of the comments about patronage, which Hiro suspected had their roots in honesty, Sayuri told the story without emotion.\n\n\"Did you move Hideyoshi's body from where you found him?\" he asked.\n\nShe shook her head and looked at the floor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I wouldn't defile myself that way.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I thought Christians didn't believe in ritual defilement,\" Hiro said.\n\nShe raised her head and met his eye. \"I am Japanese as well as Christian, and my clients do not share my faith. I would not ruin my career by touching a corpse.\"\n\n\"Then how did your kimono get so much blood on it?\" When Sayuri didn't answer Hiro added, \"Perhaps I did not make myself sufficiently clear. I ask, you answer. If you lie, the priest and I go to Nagasaki and you face Nobuhide alone.\"\n\nHer face crumpled. \"I touched him but I didn't move him.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She gestured to the hearth at the center of the room as though she could still see the corpse laid out beside it." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "This time, the horror on her face was very real. \"I saw Akechi-san lying there, covered in blood, and at first I didn't realize he was dead. I shook him and tried to revive him. I swear, I didn't move his body.\"\n\n\"When was the last time you saw Akechi Hidetaro?\" Hiro asked.\n\nShe flushed and looked at her hands. \"I don't remember. Weeks ago.\"\n\n\"How many more lies do you think I will listen to?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro demanded. \"I know he was buying your contract. He was here yesterday—did you see him?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yesterday?\" She looked up suddenly. Her lip trembled. \"Mayuri didn't tell me.\"\n\n\"When was the last time you saw him?\"\n\nHer shoulders slumped. \"Two days ago, in the morning. He argued with Mayuri, and left, and then sneaked around the side of the house and told me what had happened.\" She bit her lower lip. \"Mayuri changed the price. She wanted more money and he couldn't afford it, so she told him to go away.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What changed her mind?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri clasped her hands and rubbed the thumbs together." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't know, but I can guess.\" She looked miserable.\n\n\"Then guess,\" Hiro said.\n\n\"I think Hideyoshi did want to become my patron, and he offered Mayuri money to break her contract with Hidetaro. Hideyoshi was rich.\" She looked up with sudden fire in her eyes. \"But Hidetaro is a better man. I'd rather be his wife, and poor, than a rich man's mistress.\"\n\n\"Did Akechi Hideyoshi know about your feelings for his brother?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, but I don't know how. I didn't tell him. He teased me about it the night he died. He said I should be nice to him instead of Hidetaro.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her eyebrows drew together and her lips pursed at the memory. She gave a little shiver as though trying to forget what she could not unsee.\n\n\"Do you think Hidetaro sneaked in here and killed his brother while you slept?\"\n\nSayuri gripped her hands so tightly the knuckles whitened. \"No.\"\n\n\"You know your story makes him look guilty,\" Hiro said.\n\n\"No,\" she repeated. Her chest heaved." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He wouldn't do that. Hidetaro isn't violent, and, more importantly, he wouldn't kill his brother when the blame might fall on me.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Did anyone else join Hideyoshi in the room the night he died?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Anyone else?\" Sayuri repeated. \"What do you mean?\"\n\n\"Visitors, other clients, entertainers... anyone at all.\"\n\n\"No.\" She shook her head. \"It was just him and me.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Did he leave the room at all? To visit the latrine?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Find a natural way to mention that Was he injured when he returned?" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She looked up. \"He did visit the latrine. That was early in the evening. He went twice, one short visit and the second time longer.\" She paused. \"The second time was after dinner.\"\n\n\"Was he injured when he returned?\" Father Mateo asked. He sounded eager to hear the answer, as though it might provide an important piece of the puzzle.\n\nHiro wished the priest would reveal less about the expected responses, especially when asking leading questions.\n\n\"Not that I noticed,\" Sayuri said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Certainly not the way he was later on. That didn't happen in the latrine.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Based on her tone, she wished it had.\n\n\"I'm sure you would like to spend some time in prayer,\" Hiro said.\n\nFather Mateo looked offended. \"I was going to suggest that,\" he said in Portuguese, \"but my religion is not a cover act.\"\n\n\"Not for you,\" Hiro replied in Portuguese, \"but I need it to cover me for a little while. Ten minutes should be sufficient.\"\n\nHe slipped out of the room as the priest and Sayuri began to pray." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The common room was empty, as was the smaller family room beyond." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The women must be upstairs, sleeping or doing whatever they did in the morning hours." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro crossed the smaller common room and entered the narrow hall that led to the stairs and the yard. The little sliding door to the left beckoned as it had on his earlier visit. If Hiro guessed correctly, that door led to Mayuri's office. At least, he hoped it led to the office and not a storeroom or other useless space. His task would be much harder if he had to infiltrate the second floor.\n\nHe had wanted to check the office since he discovered that Mayuri had burned her ledgers." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The woman might have destroyed all evidence of whatever act she wanted to conceal, but he wouldn't know until he looked for himself." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro crept to the opposite end of the hall and listened. He heard voices upstairs, at least four and all female. They spoke too quietly for him to hear more than simple sounds, but the tones suggested an ongoing conversation rather than one about to end.\n\nHe returned to the opposite end of the hall and pressed his ear to the door. He heard nothing. He closed his eyes and opened his lips a fraction to increase his hearing and focus his attention.\n\nStill nothing." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He took a deep breath and slid the paneled door." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It whispered open with barely a sound.\n\nAs he stepped across the threshold a frigid female voice asked, \"What are you doing here?\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Cooperative storytelling\nContext: May include established characters/lore without introduction\nMy role: Provide a brief opening\nYour role: Expand upon my opening with 10 sentences, emulating the writing style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro straightened his shoulders. \"Looking for you, Mayuri.\"\n\nThe woman sat at a low, movable desk in the center of the room. Although smaller than the guest rooms at the front of the house, the office was finely apportioned with white tatami of the highest grade and cedar paneling covering two of the walls. A tokonoma just to right of the entrance held an expensive vase, and beyond the alcove cedar doors indicated a floor-to-ceiling storage closet. A cedar chest to the right of the desk most likely held both money and record books, but it was closed, obscuring its contents.\n\nMayuri's eyebrows knit together in a frown. \"This is my private office. You have no right to be here.\"\n\nHiro stepped into the room and slid the door closed behind him. He looked at the single, long-stemmed orchid stalk in the decorative vase." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A lovely arrangement,\" he said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mayuri sniffed. \"Riko might amount to something if she tried, but she doesn't apply herself to flower arrangement. That vase should hold two stalks, not one.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She tilted her head slightly." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But we were not discussing flowers. What is your purpose here? My cooperation does not extend to you creeping around my teahouse and listening at doors.\"\n\n\"Does it extend to explaining your activities on the night of Hideyoshi's murder?\" Hiro paused. \"I wanted to ask you privately, in deference to your status as the owner of this establishment. If you prefer, we can conduct this interview publicly.\"\n\nMayuri raised a hand and patted the back of her elaborately coiffed hair. She forced an embarrassed smile. \"This will do, thank you, though I find your question both objectionable and foolish. Why would I have a man killed in my own teahouse?\"\n\n\"I haven't accused you,\" Hiro said. \"I just asked where you were that night.\"\n\n\"As I believe I mentioned yesterday, I was in this office all evening. I settle each month's accounts on the middle day of the following month. On another night I might have been anywhere, but, since the night in question was the middle of the month, I was here with my ledgers all night.\"\n\nHiro found that suspiciously convenient." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Do you always do your accounting here?\" he asked." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'speak' precisely 3 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yes.\" She gestured to the box beside the writing desk. \"I keep all of my records in one place.\"\n\n\"Were you alone all night?\"\n\n\"Okiya brought me tea and rice before she went upstairs. She can attest that I was here all evening. The only time I left this room was when Sayuri asked me to speak with Hideyoshi.\"\n\n\"Did you speak with him?\" Hiro wondered which version of Sayuri's tale Mayuri would confirm.\n\n\"I did not.\" She paused. \"When Sayuri came to me, I told her we could not force a paying customer to leave. I intended to leave her to handle the situation, but I heard her crying as she passed the window on her way to the latrine.\"\n\nMayuri gestured toward the slatted window near the roofline.\n\n\"I decided to speak with Hideyoshi, but I finished totaling a column first so I wouldn't lose my place in the ledger." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It took several minutes longer than I expected." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"When I reached Sayuri's room I saw a pair of silhouettes on the door.\"\n\nShe fluttered her fingers in imitation of the flickering shadows cast by a candle flame.\n\n\"Hideyoshi was lying on the floor and Sayuri was kneeling over him. She wasn't struggling or complaining, and he was... moaning.\" She tilted her head knowingly. \"I left at once, without opening the door. I didn't want to disturb them.\"\n\n\"Was Hideyoshi Sayuri's patron?\" Hiro asked. \"She claims he was not.\"\n\nMayuri stared at him. \"Do you know the purchase price of a high-ranked artist's favors?\" A slow smile crept over her face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"The price is even higher when patronage is not negotiated in advance.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Her greedy smile reinforced Hiro's silent condemnation of her character. The shinobi had no issue with a voluntary trade of money for sexual favors. Teahouses and the women who worked there played a vital social role. But a woman who saw her entertainers as mere commodities, who would knowingly abandon a girl Sayuri's age to a lecherous patron when another man wanted her as a wife—such a woman could easily commit murder, though Hiro doubted she would wield the blade herself. Hiro considered her callousness the lowest kind of crime. Lower, because it was not a crime at all.\n\n\"I see your displeasure,\" Mayuri said, \"but you do not understand our world. Hideyoshi was a good customer and he had the money to pay for what he wanted.\"\n\n\"And his brother?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"I thought Hidetaro might plead his case to you,\" Mayuri said. \"This would not be the first time a poor man failed to obtain what he could not afford.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Indeed, it would not.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro bobbed his head. \"Thank you for your time.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll be your writing partner today. I will set the scene and character context, and you will continue with 7 sentences, keeping within the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"What now?\" Father Mateo asked as they left the teahouse. \"Every time we try to eliminate a potential murderer, we add someone else to the list.\"\n\n\"Two more,\" Hiro said. \"I spoke with Mayuri also.\"\n\nWhen they reached the bridge, Hiro started across the river. Father Mateo followed.\n\n\"We're not going home?\" the Jesuit asked.\n\n\"No. We're going to find out why Hidetaro lied about staying home the night his brother died.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo looked confused." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He claimed he was home alone all night, but Yoshiko says he visited with her father in the evening and the mud on his sandals says he was out in the rain.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He could have walked in mud the following morning,\" the priest said.\n\n\"It rained hard at midnight, but not for long. The ground had absorbed the water by morning and most of the puddles had dried. Hidetaro might have found a deep one that left some mud on his sandals, but the hem of his robe was soaked with dirty water too. That had to happen at night when the streets were wet.\"\n\n\"Why didn't you mention that to him before?\"\n\n\"Several reasons. Until a short time ago, I thought the assassin was a spy for Lord Oda. Now I wonder if that spy exists at all.\"\n\n\"Several people saw him,\" Father Mateo said. \"Including the entertainers, who would have known Hidetaro on sight.\"\n\n\"Unless he wore a disguise,\" Hiro pointed out." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Hidetaro served as a courier for the shogun. His training would have included the use of disguises.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"But the spy bought weapons from Luis. Where did Hidetaro get the money?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Required word frequency: 'hidetaro' (2x)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I haven't worked that piece out yet,\" Hiro admitted.\n\n\"Besides, murdering his brother would make Hidetaro a pauper.\"\n\n\"Would it? Yoshiko intends to obey her father's will, which instructs her to continue her uncle's support.\"\n\n\"But he loved Sayuri,\" Father Mateo insisted. \"Even if you're correct about the rest, why would Hidetaro murder his brother under circumstances that made the girl a suspect?\"\n\n\"What if he didn't?\" Hiro asked. \"What if we have the timing wrong?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't understand.\" Father Mateo shook his head and shrugged." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I believe Hideyoshi was dead when Sayuri returned from the latrine.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's work on this story segment. I'll provide a part, and you'll continue with six sentences in the style of Susan Spann. This is mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre and characters might appear without introduction." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Mode: Collab writing\nContext: May reference existing characters/world\nAmount: 1 sentence\nVoice: Susan Spann" }, { "from": "human", "value": "A monk at Tofuku-ji told them how to find Hidetaro's house, which lay just north of the temple compound and east of the Kamo River, at the end of an unpaved earthen road studded with fist-sized stones." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The tiny wooden house sat on a raised foundation with a veranda of split bamboo that had long ago lost its shine." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The walls were clean but aging, and where the original timbers had rotted through, replacement boards shone unnaturally bright beside their weathered neighbors." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The buildings on either side were similarly small but in worse repair, likely the homes of servants who worked too hard in their masters' houses to spend much time on their own." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was not the sort of neighborhood where Hiro expected to find a samurai." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That, combined with Hidetaro's courier training, reminded Hiro again to make no assumptions." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A pair of nicely pruned cherry trees stood in the yard of Hidetaro's home and framed the front steps with their branches." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A worn dirt path connected the road to the house, though instead of a lawn or a garden the front yard was covered with knee-high thistles and weeds." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro was surprised by the disarray." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He would have expected a would-be monk to keep the yard tidy and neat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The priest and the shinobi walked up the path and knocked on the wooden door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro opened it almost at once." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He must have seen them coming." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Have you identified Yoshi's killer?\" he asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We hope to, if you will help us,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hidetaro stepped back from the door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Of course, please come inside.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "As they stepped up into the house he asked, \"Would you like some tea?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No thank you,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We won't be long.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The house was too small to have a separate entry." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The front door opened directly into the central and only room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "An alcove in the east corner held a large wooden chest that probably contained Hidetaro's bedding, while his futon would be folded and stored in the built-in closet immediately to the right." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The north wall had a combination writing alcove and tokonoma, and the hearth sat almost in the center of the room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In all, the entire house measured barely six mats in size, little larger than Hiro's bedroom at the church." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The house smelled of pine boards and the smoke of pine-fueled fires." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A hint of incense lingered in the air, probably brought in on Hidetaro's clothes when he returned from meditation." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro inhaled deeply but caught no scent of food or grease or decay, no uncleanliness at all." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The smell reminded Hiro of the training house at Iga that young shinobi used to practice stealth and infiltration." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The house was not inhabited by people or permeated by human smells." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro had often sneaked inside to sleep there as a child, surrounded by the comforting scents of cedar, paper, and pine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It was not the way he expected a murderer's house to smell." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hidetaro led them to the hearth." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro deferred to Father Mateo, and the priest took the seat of honor directly to Hidetaro's right." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro knelt on the far side of the priest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How can I help you?\" Hidetaro asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro's eyebrows raised at his host's directness." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Sayuri's time is running out,\" Hidetaro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"This is not the time for manners.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Very well,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"When did you learn Hideyoshi intended to become Sayuri's exclusive patron?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hidetaro blinked. \"I don't know what you're talking about.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro knew he could not learn the truth through questions." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The shogunate had trained Hidetaro to dissemble when his life was on the line." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The samurai would expect politeness." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro gave him the opposite." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I think you do,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I know you argued with Hideyoshi the night he died, and your stained robe says you were out in the rain, not home asleep as you claimed. I know that you wanted Sayuri for your wife and that Mayuri changed the contract price the very day your brother died. She changed it because Hideyoshi wanted Sayuri for himself, but not as a wife—he already had one of those. He wanted her for his whore, and that made you furious, even more because he only wanted her to injure you.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro clenched his jaw, inhaled deeply, and released the tension as he exhaled." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How much more proof would Nobuhide need to find you guilty?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro asked. \"Or would you rather let Sayuri take the blame?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Tell Nobuhide what you know,\" Hidetaro said, as calmly as if responding to an inquiry about the weather." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Sayuri will live. I am prepared to die.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro felt a flash of victory that instantly changed to doubt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hidetaro intended to take responsibility, but his confession was not made in earnest." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Guilty men rarely welcomed death so stoically, particularly for crimes of passion, yet Hidetaro looked like one of Father Mateo's much-heralded martyrs marching to his pyre." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The priest apparently thought so too." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't think you killed him,\" Father Mateo said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What did you really do that night?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I killed my brother,\" Hidetaro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You caught me. In the morning I will confess to Nobuhide, and Sayuri will live. Tonight, I have nothing more to say.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hidetaro's confession would save Father Mateo, the Sakura, and perhaps even the shogunate, but the words made Hiro angry instead of pleased." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Suspicion of Hidetaro's innocence chewed at Hiro's conscience like a dog at a butcher's bone, and for the first time in his life as a shinobi, Hiro found himself caring more about the truth than about success." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His chest burned with frustration, as much with himself as with Hidetaro." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He wanted to accept the confession and walk away, successful as always." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro did not fail." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He succeeded at any cost." }, { "from": "human", "value": "No life, no expense, no principle ever stood in his way... except for one." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro would not let an innocent life pay a guilty man's debt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He realized with bitter irony that a similar choice had landed him in Kyoto, punished with an assignment to protect the foreign priest." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It had been the only failure in his spectacular career—and that failure, too, had been spectacular in its way." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro had agreed to help Sayuri only to save the Jesuit's life, but he had also agreed to help find Hideyoshi's killer." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He had given his word." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That goal was secondary to his oath to protect the priest, but once the shinobi accepted a mission, he did not and would not fail." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He couldn't just find a person to take the blame." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Until Hiro found Hideyoshi's murderer his conscience would not release him from his pledge." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That didn't keep him from hoping his instincts were wrong, and that Hidetaro really did kill Hideyoshi." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Because if Hidetaro wasn't guilty, Hiro had less than eighteen hours to learn who did." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 2 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "And despite Hidetaro's noble offer to take Sayuri's place, Hiro was not convinced that Nobuhide would accept his uncle's claims of responsibility.\n\nIn fact, he found it more likely that Hidetaro's \"confession\" would trigger the very executions the noble gesture was intended to prevent." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: The user will write a bit then you need to write around eight sentences continuing directly from the user's text. Characters and lore may appear without context - work with what's given.\n\nAuthor style: Susan Spann" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'wants' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Tell us how you killed Hideyoshi,\" Hiro said.\n\nFather Mateo glared. \"Can't you tell he only confessed to save Sayuri's life?\"\n\n\"If he wants to take the blame he can explain how he committed the crime.\" Hiro looked at Hidetaro. \"Or, if he wants us to find the real murderer, he can explain what really happened the night his brother died.\"\n\nHidetaro breathed in and out at a measured pace that Hiro recognized as a Zen technique for reducing stress and clearing a cluttered mind. The samurai did not fidget, or even move, but the breathing revealed his internal conflict.\n\nHiro gave him time to make up his mind." }, { "from": "human", "value": "At last Hidetaro nodded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I will help you for the remainder of today. Tomorrow, if you have not found the killer, I will confess in order to save Sayuri's life.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You love her enough to die for her?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro wondered what that felt like.\n\n\"All men die,\" Hidetaro said, \"most, for no valid reason. At least this death will not be meaningless.\"\n\n\"But you may not need to die at all,\" Father Mateo said. \"Tell us what happened the night your brother died.\"\n\n\"That story begins earlier in the day,\" Hidetaro said. \"The day before yesterday, in the morning, I visited the Sakura Teahouse to make a payment on Sayuri's contract. It was the middle day of the month, and I always made my payments on the middle day and the last day.\"\n\nHe gave an embarrassed smile, like a little boy caught in a lie. \"I originally told you that I made that payment the morning my brother died, which wasn't true, though I did go to the teahouse that morning. Mayuri told me about the murder—though it wasn't Mayuri I expected to see.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "He paused. \"It's better if I continue in proper order." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"On the morning before Hideyoshi died I went to the teahouse to make a payment. Mayuri would not accept my silver. She said another man had offered a much larger sum for patronage alone. Mayuri intended to keep the girl in the teahouse after all.\n\n\"I demanded to know the patron's identity and the amount he had offered to pay. She named an astronomical sum—a thousand gold koban.\"\n\nHiro's eyes widened in surprise. Father Mateo looked confused, so Hiro explained. \"One koban is the equivalent of three koku of rice. A thousand koban would feed an army for a year.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Mayuri had to be lying,\" Hidetaro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No man would pay so much for a woman's favors.\"\n\n\"I agree,\" Hiro said, \"but why would Mayuri lie?\"\n\n\"I think she needed to make the sum so high that I couldn't match it. Even so, I decided I had to try. I spent the day meditating in order to crush my pride, and in the evening I went to see Yoshi. We spoke in private, in his personal armory. I knelt before him and asked him to buy Sayuri's contract for me. I swore that if he granted this request I would never ask him for anything again, not even a grain of rice.\"\n\n\"But Hideyoshi didn't have that kind of wealth,\" Father Mateo said.\n\nHidetaro drew back in surprise. \"He must have had it. He was the patron whose name Mayuri wouldn't mention.\"\n\n\"How did you learn that?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Yoshi didn't just deny my request for help." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He laughed in my face and called me a fool for falling in love with a prostitute." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That was his word,\" Hidetaro added quickly, \"not ever mine.\"\n\nFather Mateo nodded in understanding as the samurai continued. \"Yoshi told me he had bought Sayuri's favors for himself. He said he would think of me when he deflowered her.\"\n\nHidetaro's fists clenched at his sides. He closed his eyes and slowed his breathing again. He did not speak until his demeanor and voice were calm.\n\n\"When Yoshi finished laughing he handed me a dagger from his collection. He suggested I use it to commit seppuku, since it was the last thing I would ever receive from his hand.\"\n\n\"Did you find a better use for it than ritual suicide?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I wanted to, and if Yoshi were not my brother I would have killed him on the spot, but I didn't." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I threw the knife away as hard as I could.\n\n\"It struck the tokonoma and knocked over the display.\" Hidetaro gave a bitter laugh at the memory. \"The neko-te flew everywhere and the tessen fell to the floor. Yoshi started cursing and I heard Nobuhide laugh, but I left the room and didn't look back.\"\n\n\"Nobuhide saw you throw the knife?\" Hiro asked.\n\nHidetaro nodded. \"He came into the room to ridicule me about my choice of wife. He must have overheard.\"\n\nThe conversation lagged for a moment. Hiro waited for the samurai to continue, but decided not to prompt." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He wanted to know where Hidetaro would pick up the tale.\n\n\"On the way home I thought about killing Yoshi. I wanted to, and almost decided to, but then I had a better idea, one that would give me Sayuri and revenge on Yoshi too.\" He smiled. \"I would persuade Sayuri to run away with me.\"\n\n\"With no money?\" Hiro asked.\n\nHidetaro shrugged. \"I have a shogunate travel pass, a permanent one from my courier days. There are plenty of daimyo in need of retainers, and I suspect you already know how easily a ronin can find work if his pride doesn't get in the way.\n\n\"No offense intended.\"\n\nHiro nodded. \"None taken. Please continue.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I waited at home until dark and went to the teahouse. I sneaked around the veranda to Sayuri's room, but Hideyoshi had already arrived. I listened to them from the shadows and waited for an opportunity.\n\n\"Twice I had to hide around the corner while Hideyoshi went to the latrine. I considered approaching Sayuri then, but I couldn't risk Yoshi catching us before we could get away.\n\n\"As the evening grew late, Hideyoshi got drunk and tried to persuade Sayuri to undress. It didn't take her long to understand what he had in mind. She sounded frightened—I almost ran into the room and killed him after all." }, { "from": "system", "value": "CONSTRAINT: Include 'hidetaro' 2 time(s)" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If he had forced himself on her I would have.\"\n\nHidetaro fell silent. Father Mateo opened his mouth to speak but caught himself and said nothing.\n\nA moment later Hidetaro continued. \"I heard Sayuri mention the latrine, so I ran into the yard and hid behind the latrine to wait, but she didn't come outside for several minutes.\"\n\nThat matched Hiro's understanding of the events. Sayuri spoke with Mayuri before visiting the latrine.\n\n\"When she finally arrived, I revealed myself and asked her to run away with me.\"\n\n\"But she refused to go,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Actually, she said she would, but she was afraid of Yoshi. She was terrified that he would follow us and kill us. She also said that Yoshi claimed to own her contract already. I told her that wasn't true, and a magistrate would uphold my claim because I had been making payments for several months. I told her I would see Mayuri immediately and force her to accept my claim.\"\n\n\"You knew she wouldn't,\" Hiro said.\n\n\"It was late. Sayuri was crying. I had to do something. Sayuri wouldn't let me talk with Mayuri. She said she had already tried, to no avail. But then she said something very strange. She said that Yoshi claimed he could have any girl in the Sakura, any time, and as often as he wanted.\"\n\n\"If Sayuri was so scared, why didn't she leave with you?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"She was afraid Yoshi would sound the alarm and catch us. Also, her kimono belonged to the teahouse, and Mayuri could have her arrested as a thief if she ran away wearing it.\n\n\"We decided Sayuri would hide in the latrine until Yoshi fell asleep and then run away with me in the morning, after he left.\"\n\n\"Where did you go after that?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I walked home. It took over an hour. The rainstorm started shortly after I left the Sakura, so I took shelter under a tree and waited it out.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Can anyone confirm your story?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Actually, yes,\" Hidetaro said. \"Just before the rain started I noticed a samurai following me. The figure stayed in the shadows, trying to avoid notice, which of course made his efforts that much more obvious. I pretended to turn a corner and ducked behind a wall. When the figure passed, I jumped out and grabbed him. Or, more properly, her—it was Yoshiko.\"\n\n\"Yoshiko?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"She overheard me arguing with her father and followed me to ensure I didn't harm him.\"\n\n\"Did she hear you talking with Sayuri?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"I worried about that at first,\" Hidetaro admitted, \"but she said she didn't. She apparently hid just inside the garden wall. She saw me waiting outside the room and going to the latrine, but she didn't even know I had talked with Sayuri.\"\n\n\"How can that be?\" Hiro asked." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Write three sentences sentences in the style of Susan Spann spawning from what the user wrote. Note: Characters and worldbuilding may appear mid-story." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your response should contain the word 'hidetaro' precisely 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro and Father Mateo walked back through the city as the sky turned pale and the clouds glowed orange with sunset.\n\n\"Well, I guess Hidetaro wasn't disguised as the rice merchant after all,\" Father Mateo said, then added, \"We can't let him take the blame if he isn't guilty.\"\n\n\"Don't worry,\" Hiro replied, \"Nobuhide won't let him. Hidetaro wants to save Sayuri's life, but Nobuhide will see through his story at once. Only the real killer will divert his sword.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "They crossed the Kamo River at Shijō Road, but Hiro did not turn north toward the church." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why are we going back to the teahouse?\" Father Mateo asked. \"Mayuri won't like it.\"\n\nHiro smiled. \"I know.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Mayuri answered the door she didn't even try to hide her irritation." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"This is a place of business, not a Tokaido way station! How can I earn a living with you barging in and out?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"This will all be over tomorrow, one way or another,\" Hiro said, \"but we need to speak with Sayuri one more time.\"\n\n\"One time,\" Mayuri said, \"and then no more.\"\n\nShe led them into the house." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A delicate smell of steaming rice and grilling meat lingered in Hiro's nostrils, where it mingled with the fainter scents of flowers and perfume—the smell of a teahouse preparing to welcome its guests." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Shamisen music floated through the air. Each note rose, wavered, and died away like a blossom blooming and falling from a tree. Hiro recognized this song too." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It told of loss and death and endings, and the melody evoked those thoughts so perfectly that he didn't need to guess who played it or what inspired the choice." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri sat with her back to the door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She cradled her shamisen lovingly in her arms and did not bother to turn or look behind her when the door rustled open. Hiro and Father Mateo waited until she finished her song and laid the shamisen carefully on the floor.\n\nThen she turned and her mouth fell open in surprise." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mayuri closed the door with a gentle rattle, leaving them alone." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Akechi Hidetaro sends his regards,\" Hiro said, \"and best wishes for a happy future.\"\n\nSayuri scowled. \"Why do you mock me?\"\n\n\"I am not mocking,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"His death will save you. You no longer have reason to fear.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Death?\" The word came out as a strangled whisper." }, { "from": "system", "value": "/set_word_count: didn't, frequency: 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No. He didn't kill anyone.\"\n\n\"I doubt Nobuhide will find your words persuasive,\" Hiro lied, \"particularly when he hears Hidetaro's confession.\"\n\n\"How could he confess? He didn't kill Hideyoshi.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He claims he did, and his story sounds persuasive. He hated Hideyoshi, and Nobuhide knows they argued about you.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri raised her hand to her throat." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"He didn't do it. I can prove his innocence.\"\n\n\"I do not believe you,\" Hiro said. \"A woman's lies will not keep Hidetaro alive.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Sayuri looked down at her lap." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "When she looked up again, her eyes were full of tears. Her forehead wrinkled and her nose turned red in a futile effort to hold them back, but they ran down her cheeks as she spoke.\n\n\"Hideyoshi didn't just want me to sing the night he died. He wanted... everything. A patron's rights, even though he was not my patron. I didn't want to. I told him no, but he was so drunk and so strong. I knew I couldn't stop him. That's why I asked Mayuri to intervene.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"But she refused,\" Hiro said.\n\nSayuri raised a hand and wiped her cheek. \"I was afraid, if Hideyoshi had his way, Hidetaro wouldn't want me anymore.\n\n\"When Mayuri wouldn't help I decided I would hide in the latrine until Hideyoshi fell asleep, but when I got there I found Hidetaro waiting. He wanted me to run away with him, but I was too scared to go. I thought Hideyoshi would follow us and kill Hidetaro. I couldn't let that happen. In the end, we decided that I would hide for the rest of the night and we would run away in the morning.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"How long did you hide in the latrine?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I don't really know.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Sayuri shook her head and wiped her cheek to stop a tear. Her crying had stopped except for a few stray droplets. \"I stayed there as long as it took the moon to move a handsbreadth in the sky. I watched until it rose above the top of the slatted window, and then I waited a few more minutes.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She took a deep breath. \"When I returned to the room, Hideyoshi was dead." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "His legs were still kneeling but his head and shoulders had fallen back onto the floor.\n\n\"There was so much blood...\"\n\nShe paused and then continued. \"I couldn't stand looking at his contorted body so I pulled it to the mattress." }, { "from": "human", "value": "That's how the blood got on my kimono." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I was frightened. I assumed Hidetaro killed Hideyoshi while I hid in the latrine. I went to the veranda, but no one was there. As I shut the door I realized I had Hideyoshi's blood all over my socks. I took them off and hid them in my kimono. I don't know why. I wasn't thinking very clearly.\"\n\n\"What did you do then?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"I sat in the corner, as far away from the body as I could get, and waited for morning. I made up the story about falling asleep to explain why I didn't call for help as soon as I found the body.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Why didn't you call out?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "You must include the following in quotes somewhere in your response: I wanted to give Hidetaro time to get away." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I wanted to give Hidetaro time to get away.\"\n\n\"Yet now you claim he is innocent,\" Hiro said.\n\n\"I had time to think while I sat with Hideyoshi's body,\" Sayuri said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I realized Hidetaro could not have done it. Well, wouldn't have anyway. Why would he murder his brother and risk someone blaming me when we intended to run away the following morning?\"\n\nBefore Hiro could reply the door slid open.\n\n\"My guests are arriving,\" Mayuri said, \"and I must ask you to leave. I apologize for the inconvenience.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Her smile negated the apology, but Hiro had finished questioning Sayuri anyway." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The men walked home in silence as the sky grew black and the stars appeared." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As they approached the church Father Mateo asked, \"Shouldn't we talk with Yoshiko? To see if she will confirm Hidetaro's story?\"\n\n\"Not yet,\" Hiro said. \"She had several chances to offer that information, but didn't, which suggests she has something to hide.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Before the priest could respond, the door to the church swung open." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 4 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A backlit figure in a Portuguese doublet and leggings stood silhouetted in the entrance. The figure laid its hands on its hips in a show of exasperation.\n\n\"It's about time you got here,\" Luis fumed. \"I found your missing spy.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: The user will write a bit then you need to write around eight sentences continuing directly from the user's text. Characters and lore may appear without context - work with what's given.\n\nAuthor style: Susan Spann" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Luis led them into the house and pointed to the hearth.\n\nA bald man with a long mustache sat cross-legged on the tatami, drinking tea from a porcelain cup. He wore no visible sword and his padded kimono was cut in provincial lines. A thin growth of stubble covered the back and sides of his head, but the new growth on his pate was slightly longer, suggesting more frequent shaving of that area over time.\n\nThe stranger didn't look up as Hiro and Father Mateo entered and said nothing as the other men joined him around the hearth.\n\nHiro arranged his kimono carefully to ensure it would not interfere if he had to jump to his feet. Lord Oda's spies had no reason to return to Kyoto unless they wanted to eliminate witnesses. Luis had made a colossally stupid decision in bringing the stranger home." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro actually would have preferred it if the merchant ran away after all." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"May I introduce the missing spy from the teahouse,\" Luis said with a flamboyant gesture.\n\nThe bald stranger looked up. \"I am Akechi Mitsuhide.\"\n\nHiro was stunned.\n\nFather Mateo's mouth fell open. His lips flapped like a fish tossed on a riverbank.\n\nHiro recovered first. \"How can this be?\"\n\nLuis waggled his shoulders and preened with a self-satisfaction that Hiro would find unbearable on any other day." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I went after him, of course. There's only one major road between here and Nagoya, and he had four carts full of rice and weapons. It was easy to overtake him.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Essential phrase to include: \"How did you know who he was?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"How did you know who he was?\" Father Mateo asked.\n\nAt the same time, Hiro said, \"You actually went after a murderer?\"\n\n\"Well, I didn't know he was a murderer,\" Luis said. \"But if so, I could hardly let him get away, especially since it meant Mateo's life.\"\n\nAfter a short, uncomfortable silence in which Luis seemed to realize he had done something more valiant than he intended, the merchant added, \"It also would have ruined my business.\"\n\n\"How did you convince him to return?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"I offered,\" Mitsuhide said. \"I owe my cousin that much at least.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You didn't murder him,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"If you had, you wouldn't be here.\"\n\n\"True, but I may have seen his killer. I will tell you what I know, on two conditions.\"\n\nHe paused. Father Mateo started to agree at once, but Hiro silenced the priest with a look and gave a noncommittal nod instead.\n\nMitsuhide apparently found that acceptable.\n\n\"I left Kyoto several months ago to join another daimyo,\" he said. \"Men may call me a traitor for that, but my reasons are my own and not relevant to this discussion. I will say no more about it, and you will not ask. That is my first condition.\"\n\nMitsuhide's eyes held a challenge. Hiro gave a miniscule nod of assent." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Second,\" Mitsuhide said, \"I will not remain to speak with my brother's family." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "I will tell you what I know and leave at once. What you do with my information is your business, but I warn you that my name will earn you no friends, even among the Akechi clan. You will not follow me or try to stop me.\n\n\"That is the second condition.\"\n\n\"Assuming you tell the truth and do no harm to anyone in this house, those conditions are acceptable,\" Hiro said.\n\nMitsuhide nodded. \"I returned to Kyoto two days ago to obtain additional weapons for Lord Oda. I shaved my head and disguised myself as a merchant to avoid discovery, but I decided to risk a meeting with Hideyoshi on the night before I left. It was foolish, but blood is blood.\" He paused. \"Perhaps that was not the best choice of expression." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I made an appointment at the Sakura Teahouse because I knew Hideyoshi spent his evenings there. I requested a girl whose name I did not recognize and gave her a gold koban, hoping the wealth would dazzle her so she wouldn't remember me well.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It worked,\" Hiro said with a smile. \"She found you boring.\"\n\nMitsuhide laughed. \"As I intended. Boring men are difficult to remember.\n\n\"The girl entertained me in the front room on the west side of the teahouse. It shared a wall with Hideyoshi's room.\"\n\n\"Did you speak with him?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"Yes,\" Mitsuhide said, \"in the latrine, after dinner. He was not pleased to see me. He told me to do what I had to do and go, and not to contact him or his family again.\"\n\n\"Not surprising,\" Father Mateo said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He understood my reasons for joining Lord Oda,\" Mitsuhide countered. \"He only objected because I asked to take Nobuhide with me." }, { "from": "system", "value": "/insert_quote: \"In front of the gate or behind it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The boy is wasted as a yoriki. I could have made him a real samurai. But Hideyoshi refused to let Nobuhide go, and I accepted his decision. I told him I would not ask again.\n\n\"I returned to my room and finished my sake. I intended to leave fairly early but the girl was attractive and sang moderately well, so I stayed later than intended. I left the teahouse shortly after midnight and headed for Pontocho, to find a sake shop where I could pass the hours until my meeting with the Portuguese merchant.\"\n\n\"Luis,\" Luis corrected. \"Luis Álvares.\"\n\n\"As I left the Sakura, I noticed someone hiding in the shadows by the garden gate.\"\n\n\"In front of the gate or behind it?\" Father Mateo asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro approved of the question." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"In front,\" Mitsuhide said. \"I pretended not to notice because I didn't want a fight.\"\n\nMerchants didn't carry swords, but Hiro suspected Mitsuhide had other weapons concealed beneath his padded robe. Hiro would have too, in his place. He also would have been loathe to expose them or attract attention if he didn't have to.\n\n\"I walked a little way down the road,\" Mitsuhide said, \"keeping my eye on the shadows in case I was followed, but as soon as I passed the woman went into the teahouse instead.\"\n\n\"Woman?\" Father Mateo asked. \"The person hiding in the bushes was a woman?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I only saw her from behind,\" Mitsuhide said, \"and most of the lanterns were already out so I couldn't see her in detail, but she was wearing her kimono with the obi tied in front.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A prostitute?\" Hiro asked." }, { "from": "system", "value": "can you add this somewhere in your response:\n\"No one else wears an obi that way,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"No one else wears an obi that way,\" Mitsuhide confirmed. \"That's why I noticed. At the time I thought she was sneaking in so no one would know she had strayed and stayed out so late. But when I heard about Hideyoshi's murder I wondered if she might have been the assassin, or at least another witness who might have seen something—if you can identify her.\"\n\n\"Quite possibly,\" Hiro said.\n\n\"Thank you for coming all this way back to tell us,\" Father Mateo said. \"You may have saved two lives.\"\n\n\"I have one more question,\" Hiro asked. \"Did Hideyoshi have a source of income other than his stipend from the shogun?\"\n\n\"If he did, I never heard about it,\" Mitsuhide said, \"though it wouldn't surprise me. Teahouses are expensive, and Hideyoshi spent a lot of time there. Then again, we didn't know each other well and I didn't visit often. We would hardly have discussed his financial status.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mitsuhide stood up and stretched his legs." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 5 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Thank you for your hospitality. Now, as we agreed, I must go.\"\n\n\"Don't you want to rest?\" Father Mateo asked. \"We can give you a place to sleep.\"\n\nMitsuhide smiled like an indulgent parent trying not to laugh at a child's mistake. \"I think I had better go. Any lives my information saved would be lost, and then some, if the shogun's retainers learn that I was here.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for five sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro walked Mitsuhide to the door and returned to the hearth just in time to hear Father Mateo ask, \"Have you any idea how big a risk you took?\"\n\n\"Hardly a risk.\" Luis sneered. \"These Japanese know their emperor would cut off their heads in an instant if they harmed me. Besides, they all know I'm armed and I'm better with a firearm than they are.\"\n\nLuis's eyes shifted from the priest to the fire as his hands fidgeted in his lap. Hiro was impressed by the merchant's unusually self-effacing attitude." }, { "from": "human", "value": "But the moment didn't last." }, { "from": "system", "value": "At some point in your response, insert this verbatim: \"One more question, though. What made you so certain the merchant was not the killer? You wouldn't have gone after him otherwise.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Even you should be able to find the murderer now,\" Luis told Hiro, \"since someone else has solved the hard parts for you.\"\n\n\"Perhaps I can,\" Hiro said drily. \"One more question, though. What made you so certain the merchant was not the killer? You wouldn't have gone after him otherwise.\"\n\nNot even Luis was that stupid, though Hiro kept that part to himself.\n\n\"He seemed too familiar,\" Luis said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He claimed we had never met before, but he wasn't scared and he didn't stare like most of my customers do. At the time I just considered him a conniving, self-interested bastard, like any other merchant worth his salt, but when you pointed out the illegible seal and told me about the murder I realized I had seen him before. He looked different with his hair cut and wearing that moth-eaten robe, but yesterday evening I realized who he was—and guessed that he wouldn't have killed his cousin. Even samurai tempers have their limits.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Why didn't you tell us before you left?\" Father Mateo asked. \"I thought...\"\n\nLuis sniffed. \"You thought I fled for my life. Really, Mateo. I expect that of him\"—he nodded at Hiro—\"but not of you.\"\n\n\"You did take the imperial pass.\"\n\n\"I couldn't get through the barricades without it. I am sorry I didn't mention my departure but I didn't want to raise your hopes. I might not have found him, or he might have been the wrong man after all.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Someone knocked on the door. Ana bustled through from the kitchen, disappeared into the foyer, and returned a moment later.\n\n\"It's a fisherman, come to speak with Father Mateo.\" She sighed, tossed her hands, and returned to the kitchen muttering, \"Hm. Come to pray at all hours, without even the decency to bring us a fish or two.\"\n\nFather Mateo excused himself, and Hiro took the opportunity to leave the self-satisfied Luis preening by the hearth." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The shinobi still didn't like the merchant, but he recognized the possibility of admirable qualities even in detestable individuals, and perhaps he also loathed Luis just a shade less than before.\n\nHiro went to his room and retrieved the scraps of paper from the teahouse ledgers. He set them on his writing desk and gazed at them idly as he considered what he knew about the murder. As his thoughts shifted from one fact to another, he suddenly found himself smiling. Despite the risk to himself and to Father Mateo, investigating the murder had let him use skills that he hadn't needed since coming to Kyoto, skills that had once defined him and kept him alive." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He practiced every morning to keep his abilities sharp, but Hiro had missed the excitement of putting his life on the line.\n\nAs he sat lost in thought, a tiny black paw snaked onto the desk and snatched a ledger page.\n\n\"Hey!\"\n\nThe theft brought Hiro back to the present in a flash. The tiny kitten streaked across the floor with the paper in her mouth." }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'priest' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In the doorway she turned, rear legs swinging wide as her furry paws slipped on the highly polished floor, but she regained traction and disappeared in an instant.\n\nHiro jumped up and gave chase.\n\nHe reached the door as the kitten rounded the corner into Father Mateo's room. The door stood open, and Hiro barely had time to realize that the priest might have a parishioner with him before he, too, was standing in the doorway.\n\nFortunately, the room was empty except for the priest and the overexcited kitten, who gave a splay-legged leap across Father Mateo's futon before racing for the open veranda door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The priest sat cross-legged on the floor, looking out at the darkened garden with his back to the room, and did not see the kitten coming.\n\nShe leaped onto his shoulder, into his lap, and then pattered out into the night.\n\nHiro sighed. \"Sorry. She had a paper. I guess it's gone.\"\n\n\"You mean this?\" Father Mateo turned around and held up the scrap of paper. It was damp along one edge but still intact." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He chuckled, then sneezed. \"She was too busy escaping from you to notice me, and it cost her the prize.\"\n\nHe extended the paper but Hiro shook his head slowly. \"I don't need it anymore. I already know the answer.\"\n\nFather Mateo frowned at the scrap." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Isn't this one of the ledger fragments from the Sakura?\" He looked up, startled. \"You know who the murderer is? When did you figure it out?\"\n\nHiro smiled. \"A minute ago. You gave me the final clue.\"\n\n\"I did? What was it?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'll tell you in the morning. I have one more problem to solve tonight.\"\n\nFather Mateo stood up. \"Then let's get going.\"\n\n\"Not you,\" Hiro said. \"I need to do this alone.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 6 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You can't just leave me here to do nothing.\"\n\n\"Do you believe that god of yours answers prayers?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"He does. It isn't just a matter of belief.\"\n\n\"Then get on your knees and pray,\" Hiro said, \"but wake me before you go to sleep.\"\n\nHiro returned to his room and lay down. He would not get much sleep that night, and years of training had taught him to rest when he could." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: Cooperative storytelling\nContext: May include established characters/lore without introduction\nMy role: Provide a brief opening\nYour role: Expand upon my opening with 10 sentences, emulating the writing style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro woke up the moment Father Mateo stepped through the door of the room." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The shinobi sat up, immediately alert. \"Time?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"An hour past midnight.\"\n\n\"Excellent. Thank you.\"\n\n\"I still think I should go with you.\"\n\n\"Impossible,\" Hiro said. \"This is something I need to do alone.\"\n\n\"Are you going to assassinate Nobuhide?\"\n\nHiro raised his eyebrows in mock surprise. \"That's not a bad idea. Do you mind?\"\n\n\"Of course I mind! You don't solve a murder by committing another one.\"\n\n\"I don't know,\" Hiro mused. \"Eliminating Nobuhide would solve a lot of problems.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Father Mateo frowned. \"Are you joking? I thought you were but suddenly I can't tell. I forbid you to kill Nobuhide.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Calm down. I'm not planning to kill anyone tonight, though if my errand goes as planned, by noon tomorrow Nobuhide won't be a problem for us—or for Sayuri—anymore.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Let's engage in a collaborative writing exercise. I'll provide a starting point (which may include pre-existing characters and lore), and You'll continue with 11 sentences in the style of Susan Spann." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro changed from his kimono into a set of baggy black trousers and a dark blue hooded tunic that tied in the front like a kimono. Unlike a normal surcoat this one had narrow sleeves and was belted with a special girdle. Instead of his usual obi, he used a long piece of cloth sewn into a tube. Concealed inside the tube was a kaginawa, a small grappling hook on a length of cord. Hiro tucked a second length of cloth around his waist and fastened it to the obi. It would serve as a mask when he reached his destination.\n\nHiro tucked his hood into the back of the tunic, where it disappeared inside a special pocket designed for that purpose.\n\nHe opened a wooden chest beside his desk and carefully removed the papers stacked inside. When the chest was emptied he pressed on the false wooden bottom to reveal a secret compartment where he stored special weapons. Shinobi weapons. They glimmered in the candlelight as Hiro selected the ones he wanted.\n\nFive shuriken, or throwing stars, could serve as either projectiles or a fist load in the case of hand-to-hand combat." }, { "from": "human", "value": "They went into the inside pockets of his tunic sleeves." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A handful of four-pronged tetsubishi caltrops joined the shuriken, along with a pair of shuko, three-pronged climbing claws that fitted over the wrists for scaling walls. As Hiro knew from other occasions, they were also useful weapons at close range.\n\nHe bypassed the other weapons and replaced the false bottom of the chest, seating it carefully to ensure a proper fit. He returned the papers to their places, retrieved his swords and a pair of daggers from the holder on the wall, and fastened a small leather pouch around his waist. The pouch held fire tools, a length of rope, and a kairo, a piece of treated bamboo Hiro used for holding coals, heating water, or anything else that came to mind.\n\nHe checked everything twice to make sure he hadn't overlooked anything he might need. As it happened, he doubted he would need the tools, but it was better to have them all than to die for want of any one of them.\n\nThen it was time to go.\n\nOutside, the moon looked like a giant golden koban, hanging high and full in the sky.\n\nHiro preferred to work in the dark of the moon, but he couldn't choose the timing of this assignment. He set off at the confident pace of a samurai on an evening errand." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He passed the temple, turned left at the Kamo River road, and walked south along the river toward Pontocho." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He didn't see a single soul on the road, and only a few lights still glowed in the houses near the river. A breeze rippled the water and wafted a slightly fishy odor through the air. Hiro smelled the trees and some kind of night-blooming flower in the distance, along with a rancid undertone, probably from scrap and nightsoil buckets.\n\nAs he walked, he thought about Iga. Eighteen months was not very long, and also an eternity. He missed his friends and relatives there, and until a couple of days ago he had wanted only to earn his way home. That hadn't changed, exactly, but for the first time he saw his current assignment as something other than a punishment. Had he not been shinobi, Father Mateo almost certainly would have died.\n\nHalf a mile north of Sanjō Road, Hiro left the path and disappeared into the shadows beneath the trees. Most of the houses on this side of the river had walled gardens, and Hiro walked close to the wall to avoid being seen. When he reached the last house before Sanjō Road, he removed the cloth from his obi and wrapped it around his face." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He pulled up his hood and climbed up into a cherry tree that stood by the wall with its branches growing over into the yard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Once up the tree, Hiro removed his katana and tied it carefully to a branch where no one would see it from the ground. Although necessary to his disguise, the longsword was a liability to stealth.\n\nHis hands found the hidden drawstrings inside his sleeves and drew the cuffs tight around his wrists. He did the same with the cuffs of his trousers.\n\nWith his clothes secured, Hiro continued up the tree until he perched about three feet above the eaves of the house adjacent to the tree. Unlike the Akechis', this house lacked a careful gardener, and the cherry tree's spreading branches extended several feet over the roof.\n\nHiro stretched himself along a branch and slithered away from the trunk. His weight lowered the branch until it rested against the roof. When the leaves touched the eaves, Hiro slowed his movements to ensure the limb would not rustle and alert the home's inhabitants.\n\nHe saw no lights, but that did not mean that everyone was asleep.\n\nWhen he reached the roof, Hiro stepped from the branch without a sound and slowly eased the limb back up to its original position." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He didn't dislodge a single leaf." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro squatted on the roof and listened. He heard no sound from the house below and saw no lanterns or other light. After a couple of minutes, Hiro climbed to the peak of the sloping roof. He kept his body low to minimize his profile against the sky.\n\nHe saw no one in the street and no movement in the yard. The next house to the east had its shutters drawn. Its owners had also gone to bed.\n\nHiro jumped from the east side of the roof to a spreading pine in the neighbors' yard. The needles smelled sharp and fresh in his nose, and the bark felt reassuringly rough and stable under his hands after climbing the cherry tree. Pines were much easier to climb.\n\nIt took him only moments to traverse the pine and jump lightly to the roof of the second house." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He moved more slowly up the ridge of the second roof because from its peak he would be able to see the Sakura Teahouse—and anyone in the teahouse yard would be able to see him too." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He crouched low behind the ridgepole that ran the length of the roof." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Rough thatch poked at the soles of his slippers and jabbed at the knees of his trousers.\n\nThe continuing smell of pine told Hiro that he had touched or rubbed some sap onto his clothes. In Iga, that would mean failure, but fortunately this was not a training exercise. The flowers and perfumes of the Sakura would more than overwhelm a spot or two of pitch.\n\nHe eased himself over the ridge of the roof and looked down at the teahouse.\n\nThe shutters were open and lights shone brightly in the windows of every room on the lower floor, though the windows of the upper floor were dark.\n\nHiro moved along the roof toward the pair of large, spreading cherry trees that grew beside the teahouse latrine. As he remembered, their questing branches reached over the wall, not quite all the way to the neighboring roof but close enough for his purposes.\n\nHe crouched and sprang. The six-foot gap opened wide beneath him but he kept his eyes on his target and a moment later he felt the prickly bark beneath his fingers. He grabbed hold, relaxing his muscles to finish the fall without breaking the branch." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Less than a minute after he landed in the tree, a door slid open on the near side of the house and a portly samurai staggered onto the veranda." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A tinkling female laugh followed him out into the night." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "It sounded like Riko, though Hiro couldn't tell for certain.\n\nThe samurai turned and laughed back into the room, then stepped off the porch and waddled toward the latrine. His gait wavered slightly, drunk but not quite beyond control. Hiro watched him pass beneath the other side of the tree and enter the latrine.\n\nWhen the samurai had gone, Hiro moved silently through the branches until he reached a place where the leaves grew thick enough to hide in.\n\nThere he waited.\n\nA few minutes later the drunken samurai finished in the latrine and returned to the teahouse. A feminine laugh greeted him and a kneeling figure slid the door closed behind him. Their shadows retreated farther into the room until Hiro saw only candlelight flickering on the paper panels.\n\nThe moon continued its circuit through the sky.\n\nSome time later Hiro heard a murmur of voices on the front porch of the teahouse, or perhaps out in the street." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A woman called \"good night,\" and a lower male voice replied with indistinct words." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Someone was leaving. The candles still burned in the samurai's room, so Hiro guessed another guest had departed for the night.\n\nMoments later a light flickered in the upstairs rooms. It was pale at first, but grew, like someone bringing a lantern up a flight of stairs. It extinguished itself before it grew distinct, suggesting that the bearer had come upon a room of sleepers and didn't want to wake them. Hiro waited but the light did not reappear.\n\nHe leaned against his branch and watched the lights in the samurai's room. He had only until dawn, but the moon was still high. He could almost hear his father's voice reminding him that impatience was the enemy of stealth—a lesson the bullies of Iga had taught him all too well, and that he had repaid in full once he had learned to master patience and surprise.\n\nAnother hour passed and the final visitor departed. Hiro heard his drunken laughter in the street. He wondered what the neighbors thought about the teahouse's late-night revels and if they ever learned to ignore the raucous shouts of departing samurai." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "A moment later the last candle went out in the downstairs room. The ground floor faded into darkness. A minute later, a light bobbed into the upstairs window. It disappeared as quickly as the one before. Hiro barely saw a woman's form silhouetted against the paper panels before the entire house went dark. Only the lanterns outside the latrine still burned.\n\nHiro waited. He watched the teahouse and the moon. He listened to crickets singing in chorus and a frog burping at the edge of an unseen pond. A brave cicada hissed in a tree, too early and out of season for the fourth month of the year.\n\nA cloud slid across the sky. A second one joined it, and they combined into a single mass of gray." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As the cloud approached the moon Hiro flexed his muscles, limbering them to move." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 9 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The moonlight dimmed, then faded as the cloud slipped over the pale disc. Hiro slithered down the tree trunk and scurried across the yard, keeping low and moving fast to avoid detection. By the time the moon reappeared, the shinobi was gone.\n\nHiro crouched at the edge of the wall beside the back door of the teahouse. The paper panels were dark and opaque with no movement or light within. He laid a hand on the door, lifted slightly to reduce its rumble against the wooden tracks, and pushed it open just far enough to slip through. Once inside, he closed the door without a sound.\n\nTo his left, the now-familiar hallway led to the staircase and the second floor. To the right lay his objective: Mayuri's office." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for five sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro glanced down the hallway toward the staircase. A faint, flickering light indicated a candle burning at the top of the stairs. Someone was still awake, which made his errand dangerous, but Hiro decided not to risk returning to the yard. With Nobuhide's guards on duty, and likely to use the latrine at any time, he didn't want to cross the yard again until he had to.\n\nHe turned to his right and walked to the office door, using the heel-up nuki-ashi step that prevented floors from creaking." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Once inside the office, he opened the chest where Mayuri kept her records. As he expected, several brand-new ledgers sat at the top of the pile. He pulled a candle, flint, and metal shield from his pouch, then lit the candle, and placed it inside the shield so that only a sliver of light remained. He lifted the first of the record books, held it before the light, and began to read.\n\nThe book recorded the business transactions of the Sakura Teahouse, mostly lists of names and fees, but the book was dated three years ago, and the numbers were much lower than the ones on the partly burned pages Hiro had rescued from the fire." }, { "from": "human", "value": "As he leafed through the pages, he noticed the heading \"Akechi Hideyoshi\" appeared on both the pages that tracked individual client accounts and also the ones where the teahouse's monthly receipts were tallied." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro's training in accounting was only rudimentary, but even he could tell what the columns meant." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Akechi Hideyoshi owned an interest in the teahouse.\n\nHiro paused. He had sensed the noise more than heard it, the slightest creak of a wooden step, like a house settling on its raised foundation. Or a stealthy foot on a staircase.\n\nHiro took no chances.\n\nHe replaced the book, closed the chest without a sound, and extinguished his candle." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stood in the darkness and listened.\n\nA faint rustling reached his ears, barely audible in the sleeping silence of the house. He moved toward the built-in cupboard at the back of the room. The paneled door was exactly where he remembered and it slid open beneath his hand with barely a whisper. He squinted into the darkness, looking for a hiding place." }, { "from": "human", "value": "A wooden shelf divided the eight-foot closet in half horizontally." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Precise word count needed: 'compartment' × 2" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The upper compartment held shelves full of teapots and sake flasks. The lower one held thin futons and a number of quilted blankets. Fortunately, that compartment was only half full. It had just enough empty space for a person to squeeze inside.\n\nHiro tucked the candle and shield into his pouch, climbed into the cupboard, and slid the door closed behind him." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Not a minute later, the office door slid open. Light flickered under the cupboard door and flared in the cracks around the edges. Rustling silk suggested movement, but whoever entered the room moved almost as silently as a shinobi on the prowl.\n\nHiro heard nothing for a minute and then the wooden chest opened and closed with a click. A book thumped lightly on the desk and an ink stick scraped against the surface of a stone inkwell." }, { "from": "human", "value": "It was neither the middle day of the month nor the usual time for Mayuri to do accounting." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Whatever she was working on, she wanted to do it in secret.\n\nHiro settled in for a wait, but not a tense one. Discovery was unlikely. If Mayuri had heard him in the room she would have opened the cabinet at once, since no other place could conceal a human figure. She would not have commenced her secret work if she suspected an intruder, and, unless Hiro moved or made a noise, she was unlikely to discover him at all.\n\nCompared with the other places he had spent hidden nights, the cupboard was as large and as safe as his room at the church." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'heard' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He heard nothing for some time. A writing brush made too little sound to carry as far as the cupboard, and Mayuri sat with the stillness and discipline of long study. Every few minutes a page rustled as she turned it, but otherwise the room remained so quiet that Hiro could hear the crickets in the yard.\n\nAfter what seemed like at least an hour, Hiro heard small, light footsteps on the stairs. Someone else was awake, most likely on a late-night visit to the latrine." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He heard the outside door slide open and close again. The sound barely carried through the closet wall, and Hiro doubted it was audible in the office.\n\nA page rustled, followed by silence.\n\nA few minutes later the outer door opened again, more softly this time. Hiro almost missed it and would have dismissed it as the house settling except for a tiny whisper in the hall." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"There. Under the door.\"\n\nGeta thudded on the wooden floor and the office door burst open with a clatter and a sound of paper ripping.\n\n\"Stop, thief!\" a male voice yelled.\n\nMayuri shrieked in surprise. Papers fluttered and a book, most likely the ledger, thumped to the floor." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"What in the fire-jar hell are you doing?\" Mayuri demanded." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro winced. Even a man who didn't believe in hell could appreciate the evocative reference." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "In the fire-jar hell, lascivious monks and other promiscuous men suffered a torment appropriate to their misdeeds.\n\nNo one spoke.\n\n\"Who gave you permission to enter this house at night?\" Mayuri shrieked. \"In geta, and ripping my doors! Get out! Get out!\"\n\n\"I—I'm sorry,\" a male voice stammered." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"She told me... I thought...\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "After a pause his voice turned angry. \"You said there was an intruder in the office!\"\n\n\"I'm sorry,\" Yoko whimpered. \"I went to the latrine and saw the light in the window. I thought it was Akechi-sama's ghost.\"\n\n\"Ghost?\" Mayuri hissed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Do I look like a ghost to you?\"\n\n\"Not much,\" Yoko stammered. \"Not anymore.\"\n\n\"Get out, all of you! And don't you come back in this house tonight—not even if it's on fire!\"\n\nThe geta clicked out the door, across the hall, and onto the veranda as more footsteps rumbled down the stairs. Mayuri's yelling must have awakened the others." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro suspected they had been listening by the staircase until they knew it was safe to descend.\n\n\"What are you doing here?\" Mayuri demanded. \"It's the middle of the night. You should all be sleeping!\"\n\n\"Not with all that yelling,\" Okiya said.\n\n\"An ignorant mistake by an ignorant fool,\" Mayuri sniffed." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Go back to bed.\"\n\nThe stairs creaked as the women returned to bed. Hiro thought they had all departed, but a moment later he heard Okiya say, \"It's late for accounting.\"\n\n\"I have things to finish and couldn't sleep,\" Mayuri replied.\n\n\"Three years' worth of things?\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "I'll start writing, then you take over for five sentences, matching any established character familiarity in the mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s genre." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Produce a starting prompt please." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"All right,\" Mayuri said, \"sit down.\"\n\nHiro heard soft footsteps on the tatami and the rustling of a kimono as Okiya knelt on the floor.\n\n\"Hideyoshi's daughter found out about his interest,\" Mayuri said.\n\n\"You told me he kept it a secret, even from his wife.\"\n\n\"Apparently not,\" Mayuri said, \"and it gets worse. I burned the ledgers the morning he died, because I was certain the prohibition on samurai owning businesses had kept him from telling anyone that he owned a third of a teahouse.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You burned the books?\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "IMPORTANT: 'would' should appear 2 times in total" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Okiya asked. \"What made you do that?\"\n\n\"I didn't think anyone knew about his interest. Nobuhide didn't mention it, and you know he would have demanded his rights at once if he had known. I thought destroying the ledgers would protect us.\n\n\"When the priest and his ronin dog started poking around, I worried that they might see the books and think we were involved in the murder somehow—especially given that mess with Hidetaro and Sayuri's contract.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I told you not to let Hideyoshi claim her,\" Okiya said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We agreed the girls would never be sold or treated as slaves.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"It was a mistake,\" Mayuri admitted." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You're right, I shouldn't have done it, but he threatened to force himself on every girl in the teahouse if I didn't give him Sayuri. Including you.\"\n\nOkiya laughed. \"I'd like to see him try it.\"\n\n\"That's not a problem anymore, but we have a bigger one. Yoshiko is her father's heir and she knows about the teahouse. She was here last night demanding an accounting and wanting to know how much income she should expect." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"She demanded to see the books.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Does she know the percentage?\" Okiya asked." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I don't know. I didn't ask. I was too surprised to learn that she knew anything. He always said he never told anyone, not even his wife.\"\n\n\"Not even his wife,\" Okiya repeated. \"How long have you worked in the floating world, and you don't remember that men always lie?\"\n\nSilence stretched out between them. A page turned, and then another." }, { "from": "human", "value": "After a minute or so Okiya said, \"Worse things could have happened. We have another partner. At least this one won't be spoiling virgin girls like her father did.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Remember to mention: \"It cost part of your interest as well as mine,\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That's one expense I'll be glad to do without,\" Mayuri agreed, \"and I suppose he did get his interest rightfully. I should have known that girl was an assassin. Her contract came far too cheaply.\"\n\n\"That was years ago,\" Okiya said. \"You can forgive yourself now.\"\n\n\"It cost part of your interest as well as mine,\" Mayuri said. \"That's what I regret.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"All this talk isn't getting your ledgers finished,\" Okiya replied." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'm going to have some tea before I sleep. Would you like some?\"\n\n\"Yes, thank you.\"\n\nA kimono rustled and footsteps approached the cupboard.\n\n\"I'll use the big pot.\"\n\nOkiya stood on the opposite side of the cupboard door." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro heard her hand touch the panel. The door rattled on its tracks.\n\n\"On second thought, I think I'll just finish these ledgers and get to sleep,\" Mayuri said. \"If I stay up for tea, I won't be sharp tomorrow.\"\n\n\"Are you sure?\" Okiya asked." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Yes, thank you. No tea for me tonight.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"All right.\" Okiya's voice moved away from the door. She yawned. \"I'll use the little pot in the kitchen instead.\n\n\"I wish Sayuri didn't have to take the blame for Hideyoshi's murder,\" Okiya added from the doorway. \"I'm sure she didn't do it.\"\n\n\"Better her than us,\" Mayuri said.\n\n\"Better still to see real justice.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Today you will be acting as a writing assistant for a segment of a larger mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s story. Your partner will send something and you will write the next two sentences. Characters may already be established." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro remained in the cupboard for almost half an hour after Mayuri left the office and went to bed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The house grew still." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro didn't know the time, but judging by the tired ache behind his eyes, dawn was only an hour or two away.\n\nStill he waited." }, { "from": "human", "value": "When he judged it safe to move, he slid open the door and stepped into the office." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Working by feel alone, he rearranged the blankets to erase the depression left by his body. He didn't stop until the cabinet showed no sign of his presence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He left the room without looking at the ledgers. The women's conversation had confirmed the suspicion that led him there in the first place." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Word count directive: Use 'teahouse' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hideyoshi's income would not support a teahouse lifestyle, and though it had taken Hiro a while to deduce that the samurai had owned an interest in the teahouse, the facts eventually lined up in his mind. Ironically, it had been the servant's broken sandals and Hidetaro's shabby robes that provided the final clue." }, { "from": "human", "value": "If Hideyoshi had income or hidden savings he could allow anyone to discover, he would have bought them better clothes, if only to ensure that no one knew of his poverty." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "But his only extravagance was the teahouse. When Hiro added together Yoshiko's visit, Sayuri's contract, and the destruction of the ledgers, it had grown clear that the teahouse finances were not what they had seemed." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The moon was low in the sky." }, { "from": "human", "value": "The night seemed darker, as always just before dawn." }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro crept along the veranda and checked the yard for the dōshin and his friends." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He saw no one." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He slipped the metal claws on his wrists and sprinted across the yard. He leaped into the cherry tree without a pause and without concern for the scars his claws would leave on the bark." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "By the time anyone might notice them, Sayuri and Father Mateo would be free or Nobuhide would be dead and Hiro preparing for seppuku.\n\nHe reversed his path across the rooftops as far as the river, where he paused to remove his cowl and claws, untie his cuffs and retrieve his sword." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He jumped softly to the ground. Seeing no one, he stepped onto the road and headed for home." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He swaggered with a slightly exaggerated roll, like a drunken samurai heading home from indulgences in Pontocho." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He reached Marutamachi Road without incident." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "As he passed the Okazaki shrine, the tall white torii gate shone brightly in the moonlight and the guardian lion just beyond seemed to grin even wider than usual, as though he knew about Hiro's successful mission. Hiro grinned back.\n\n\"If you do exist,\" he murmured, \"thanks.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The statue did not reply.\n\nA robed figure emerged from the shadows on the eastern side of the torii and floated into the road." }, { "from": "human", "value": "In the slanting light of the setting moon, the figure looked like a ghost." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Who are you?\" it asked. \"Where are you going?\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Hiro swayed slightly but didn't break character." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He stopped and blinked at the figure in the road." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"S'night time,\" he slurred. He raised a wobbling finger toward the setting moon. \"Moon's up.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "The figure stepped forward again, and the moonlight revealed her as the priestess who sold amulets by the gate." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Make sure to use 'should' 2 time(s) throughout your message" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She laid one hand on her hip and wagged the other accusingly. \"You should not be out so late. What will your wife and parents think when you come home drunk at dawn? A samurai should set a better example.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Maybe I'm out early.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro spoke with the slightly surprised tone of a drunk who knows he has said something very clever. \"D'you think of that?\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Maybe I can tell you're drunk, and drunks are only out late, never early.\" She sniffed and pointed up the road. \"Go home.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Trying to,\" Hiro mumbled as he wandered past." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Include 'before' 2 time(s) in your answer - no more, no less" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He reached the church just before dawn and walked up the side of the house to avoid waking Ana or the others.\n\nFather Mateo knelt before the cross at the far end of the yard." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Hiro stopped and waited beside the koi pond. When the priest finished his prayers, he rose, crossed himself, and turned toward the house." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He startled at the sight of Hiro.\n\n\"I'm glad you're back,\" he said with relief." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I'd started to wonder if something had gone wrong.\"\n\n\"No,\" Hiro said. \"In fact, it went exactly right.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Is everyone alive?\"\n\n\"I can't speak for all Kyoto,\" Hiro said, \"but I didn't kill anyone tonight.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Then come inside and tell me where you've been. We have some time before we leave for the teahouse.\"\n\n\"Not enough for talking,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I need to sleep, and I have a letter to send.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 3 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"At least tell me that you identified the murderer?\"\n\n\"Don't worry about that,\" Hiro said. \"Nobuhide won't be killing anyone today.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Write three sentences sentences in the style of Susan Spann spawning from what the user wrote. Note: Characters and worldbuilding may appear mid-story." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Four hours later Hiro and Father Mateo returned to the teahouse. The sun stood high in the sky but it was not quite midday.\n\nMayuri answered Hiro's knock." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She seemed startled and oddly pleased to see them. She even bowed. \"Good morning.\"\n\n\"Good morning,\" Hiro said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"We have come to see Sayuri.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"And Nobuhide,\" she said, with a hint of sorrow in her voice. \"Please come in.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "She escorted them to Sayuri's room." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I apologize for my lack of hospitality,\" she said, \"but I need to leave you alone. I have an important appointment in a few minutes.\"\n\n\"Of course.\" They bowed and Mayuri closed the door.\n\nFather Mateo crossed to Sayuri and asked if she wanted to pray." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "They bowed their heads together and a moment later Father Mateo's deep, gentle voice filled the room. Hiro didn't necessarily believe in any god. He doubted the world had made itself, but he also put little faith in the competing stories people told." }, { "from": "human", "value": "This one was an angry god." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "That one lived in trees.\n\nHiro was too busy staying alive to sort through them in search of a real one.\n\nStill, Father Mateo's prayer was soothing on the ear, so Hiro listened as the Jesuit asked his Jesus god to spare Sayuri's life, and also his own, and if not to grant them entry into His Heaven for all eternity." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "About halfway through the prayer Hiro heard the muffled sound of a knock on the teahouse door and female voices talking in the entry. As the women passed through the common room Hiro thought he recognized Yoshiko's voice. He waited until he heard a door slide closed and then slipped out of Sayuri's room and down the hall." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "He stood outside Mayuri's office and listened to the conversation within.\n\n\"—you for coming,\" Mayuri was saying. \"Again, I am very sorry for your loss.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Thank you,\" Yoshiko said." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I am a little confused about the reason for your visit.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I am my father's heir.\"\n\n\"Are you seeking restitution for his death? A teahouse owner is not liable for the actions of an assassin.\"\n\n\"As I told you two nights ago,\" Yoshiko said, \"one owner is responsible to provide the other owners with reports of profits and expenses.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "When Mayuri did not reply Yoshiko continued." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"Don't put me off any longer. I insist on seeing the ledgers.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "Mayuri tried one more time." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Samurai don't engage in business.\"\n\n\"Five years ago my father was assaulted in this teahouse.\" Yoshiko's voice would have melted steel." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"He did not drag you before the magistrate or cut off your miserable head because you offered him a percentage in lieu of restitution or revenge. You can either accept me as your partner now, this minute, or we will see how the magistrate feels about your unfortunate lack of memory.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 1 sentence." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Before Mayuri could answer, a loud bang echoed through the house." } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Literary Collaboration:\n- Sentences: 12 sentences\n- Match character context\n- Genre: mystery, historical fiction, Japan, historical mystery, 1500s" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The front door of the teahouse banged again as Nobuhide's voice yelled, \"Mayuri!\"\n\nHiro barely had time to race across the common room and duck through the door of Sayuri's room before footsteps scurried through the house and Mayuri's voice called, \"Just a moment.\"\n\nHiro was impressed. It took a lot to make an entertainer forget her training. Entertainers never yelled and Mayuri's feet never made a sound before.\n\nYoshiko's heavier footsteps followed Mayuri's across the common room. Hiro pushed the door open just a crack to listen. Behind him, Father Mateo's prayers stopped. Hiro suspected the priest and Sayuri were listening too.\n\n\"What do you want?\" Mayuri's voice revealed her irritation. \"Why are you yelling?\"\n\n\"I have found my father's murderer!\" Nobuhide said." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Nobuhide?\" Hidetaro's voice echoed through the house. \"Yoshiko? Why are you here?\"\n\n\"Hidetaro!\" Yoshiko exclaimed, \"I could ask the same of you.\"\n\nHiro smiled. The messenger must have delivered his letter precisely as requested, and Hidetaro had shown up right on time.\n\n\"I...\" Hidetaro paused. \"I came to see Sayuri.\"\n\n\"How convenient,\" Nobuhide said. \"Shall we go together?\"\n\nFootsteps approached the door to Sayuri's room. Hiro backed up several steps and placed himself between Father Mateo and the door. Behind him, he heard someone stand up. The rattle of a scabbard told him it was the Jesuit and not Sayuri.\n\nThe door slid open." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nobuhide stalked into the room, followed by his sister, Mayuri, and a very confused Hidetaro. Nobuhide remained by the door, but the other three walked farther into the room.\n\nNobuhide startled at the sight of the priest. Apparently, he expected the Jesuit to run.\n\nHe pointed at Hiro. \"You stand by the outer door. I don't want the murderer escaping.\"\n\n\"Father Mateo and Sayuri go with me,\" Hiro said. \"I will not stand on the opposite side of the room.\"\n\nNobuhide pointed to the tokonoma. \"Let them stand there, between us.\"\n\nHiro considered the distance from Nobuhide to the alcove. The yoriki would have to circumvent the hearth to reach the priest, but Hiro had no obstacle in his path." }, { "from": "human", "value": "From the perspective of defense, it represented a better position than the one Hiro currently held." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "The shinobi nodded.\n\nFather Mateo and Sayuri walked to the tokonoma as Hiro took up a position before the veranda door.\n\n\"I didn't need your help to find the murderer.\" Nobuhide sneered. \"I solved the crime myself, though you were correct that Sayuri was not to blame. I should have known a whore didn't have the intelligence or the strength to kill my father.\"\n\n\"Don't. Call her. A whore.\" Hidetaro's words came out as separate sentences. His hand rested on the hilt of his katana.\n\n\"Did you come to plead for her life?\" Nobuhide asked.\n\n\"My business is none of yours,\" Hidetaro said.\n\nFather Mateo changed the subject. \"How did you identify the murderer?\"\n\nA superior look came over Nobuhide's face." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"It was simple for me, because I am samurai and you are not.\"\n\n\"Would you mind sharing your discovery with us?\" Hiro asked.\n\nNobuhide removed a small leather bag from his kimono. He held it high.\n\n\"This is the weapon that murdered my father. A shinobi weapon, though he was not killed by an assassin. He was murdered by someone who knew him well. Someone who had everything to gain by his death, and who used my father's own weapon to take his life!\"\n\nNobuhide opened the bag and pulled out three of the neko-te finger sheaths. One had no blade in it.\n\n\"The murderer stole the weapon from our home the night my father died, used it to kill him, and sneaked it back to the house the following day. No one noticed because the pieces had fallen on the floor, thanks to my Uncle Hidetaro's shocking lack of gratitude and discipline.\" Nobuhide paused. \"He threw away a dagger my father gave him as a gift. A fine way to repay our generosity.\"\n\nHidetaro clenched his fists at his sides. He took a deep breath and relaxed them. Hiro noted both movements with relief." }, { "from": "human", "value": "He suspected a fight was about to happen, but he didn't want Hidetaro to begin it." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 13 sentences." }, { "from": "system", "value": "⚠️ Required: Use 'neko-te' exactly 2 times" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"I noticed the missing neko-te when I returned home with the body,\" Nobuhide continued. \"They returned to their places later that morning, but one of the blades was broken and out of place. When I saw it, I remembered that there was a broken blade in my father's chest when I brought him home. I checked beneath his armor but the blade was gone. The killer had replaced it, and also the other neko-te, hoping no one would notice.\"\n\n\"You realize this means Sayuri is innocent,\" Father Mateo said.\n\nNobuhide nodded. \"Indeed. I absolve her of all responsibility for the crime, and you as well, as soon as the real murderer pays the penalty for this crime.\"\n\n\"Who is the real murderer?\" Hiro asked.\n\n\"A member of my own family.\" Nobuhide reveled in the moment.\n\nHiro wished he would get on with it.\n\n\"My father was killed by someone he knew and trusted!\"\n\n\"That is why he did not fight,\" Yoshiko confirmed.\n\n\"We agree on that,\" Hiro said. \"The question is—\"\n\n\"I ask the questions,\" Nobuhide snapped, \"and there is no need to ask. I already know.\"\n\n\"Then tell us.\"" } ]

[ { "from": "system", "value": "Task: The user will write a bit then you need to write around eight sentences continuing directly from the user's text. Characters and lore may appear without context - work with what's given.\n\nAuthor style: Susan Spann" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nobuhide pointed at his sister. \"Yoshiko killed our father.\"\n\nYoshiko's hand flew to the hilt of her sword. \"That is a lie!\"\n\n\"It is the truth!\" Nobuhide crowed. \"You killed him and you deserve to die.\"\n\nHidetaro took half a step backward. Mayuri paled and covered her mouth with her hands." }, { "from": "system", "value": "Your task: Include 'yoshiko' 2 time(s) in your response" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Father Mateo took half a step to his right to shield Sayuri with his body.\n\n\"Who stands to gain from our father's death?\" Nobuhide demanded. \"You! You are his heir, and you knew it. You knew about the will and what it said, and you killed him to get control of the family fortune.\"\n\n\"There is no fortune,\" Yoshiko said, \"and I was at home with Mother the night Father died.\"\n\n\"You were not at home,\" Nobuhide said. \"Your shoes were covered in mud the following morning. You were out that night, after midnight, in the rain.\"\n\nYoshiko looked at the floor. \"You're right, I was not at home.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "She looked up. \"But I did not kill him. After you and Father argued with Hidetaro, I worried that Uncle might do something rash. When two men want the same woman, you cannot depend on either to act wisely.\"\n\nHiro agreed with that wholeheartedly.\n\n\"Hidetaro followed Father here, to the teahouse,\" Yoshiko continued. \"He spied on the room from outside the veranda door, and when the night grew late he hid behind the latrine. I stood by the garden gate and watched, but Father never left the room.\n\n\"When Hidetaro left, I followed. I tried to practice stealth but he caught me by surprise. He said he intended no harm and I believed him so I headed home. Shortly after that it rained." }, { "from": "human", "value": "My clothes and shoes got wet." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"I was not home in the early morning because I took my kimono to be cleaned, but I did not touch the neko-te and I did not kill my father.\"" }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"A convenient lie,\" Nobuhide said, \"and all the worse because you expect our uncle to support your feeble claim." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Here is what actually happened.\n\n\"You had been waiting to get your hands on Father's fortune because he would not allow you to pledge an oath or become a retainer to a real samurai. No man wanted to marry you, and without a fortune you would be no better than a beggar all your life.\n\n\"When you heard the argument between Father and Hidetaro, you knew your opportunity had come. People would suspect Hidetaro instead of you. So you waited until we left and took the neko-te off the floor. You chose them because you knew a shinobi's weapon would make you look even less suspicious.\"\n\n\"It is a woman's weapon,\" Yoshiko said with disdain, though Hiro noticed her breathing speed up and heard a hint of fear at the back of her voice.\n\n\"Shut up!\" Nobuhide barked. \"You followed Father to the teahouse, waited until he was alone, and murdered him. He didn't struggle because he never thought his beloved daughter could kill him.\n\n\"In the morning you conveniently 'found' the will, with Mother's help, and revealed yourself as the heir." }, { "from": "human", "value": "\"You would have gotten away with it, too, except for one mistake. You removed the broken neko-te from the wound instead of leaving it in the body, where it would not have attracted attention.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Weave this into your narrative: \"Your beloved priest and the little whore will get to live after all.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Very clever,\" Hiro said. \"You appear to have thought of everything.\"\n\n\"Your beloved priest and the little whore will get to live after all.\" Nobuhide drew his katana and brandished it before him. \"I demand vengeance... against Akechi Yoshiko.\"\n\n\"Just a moment,\" Hiro said.\n\nNobuhide paused.\n\n\"There is something you haven't explained.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "Nobuhide frowned. \"What's that?\"\n\n\"Your father's will was a forgery,\" Hiro said, \"though it doesn't matter because under the law Yoshiko is still your father's heir.\n\n\"And one other thing. Yoshiko didn't kill your father. You did.\"\n\nSayuri gasped and raised her hands to her mouth. Hidetaro scowled, and Mayuri's eyes widened in surprise.\n\nNobuhide took a step backward. \"Me? That's an outrage! I would never kill my father.\"\n\n\"I thought so too, at first,\" Hiro said, \"and later I almost blamed Yoshiko too—for the very same reasons you just stated. Her actions make her look much guiltier than Sayuri, or even Hidetaro, though both of them had motives for murder too.\"" }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"Yoshiko did kill him,\" Nobuhide protested. \"She benefited from his death.\"\n\n\"Possibly,\" Hiro said, \"but not before he died. She had no reason to kill your father. You had several.\"\n\n\"I don't know what you're talking about.\"\n\n\"Your father refused to let you join Mitsuhide in Nobunaga's army. Despite your pleas, he forced you to remain a lowly yoriki in the service of a shogun who would never appreciate your skills. You could not disobey while your father lived, and your father's profligate spending at the Sakura made you worry that he would spend his entire fortune before you could inherit it, depriving you of the wherewithal to buy yourself a greater position than that of Kyoto policeman.\n\n\"But because you are a policeman, you knew that you couldn't just kill your father and walk away." }, { "from": "human", "value": "You needed an opportunity to blame it on someone else." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"You heard your father argue with Hidetaro. You were present when Hidetaro threw the knife. You saw the neko-te scatter on the floor, and you scooped them up as you left the room, knowing no one else would enter your father's study while he was gone.\"\n\n\"Neko-te is a woman's weapon.\" Disgust dripped like venom from Nobuhide's words. \"No man would ever use it.\"\n\n\"Which is exactly why you chose to,\" Hiro said. \"You knew it would throw suspicion on Sayuri. I think you intended to claim a conspiracy between her and Hidetaro, to ensure that one or the other took the blame.\"\n\n\"But I couldn't have killed him,\" Nobuhide said. \"I was at the House of the Floating Plums all night. Ask Umeha, she will tell you.\"" }, { "from": "system", "value": "Next message should be approximately 9 sentences." }, { "from": "gpt", "value": "\"That threw me too, at first,\" Hiro said. \"It was clever of you to give her so much sake. You've known her several years, so I'm sure you know what happens when she drinks.\"\n\n\"She doesn't remember anything,\" Mayuri said. \"I never let her drink sake when she was here, for that very reason.\"\n\n\"She fell asleep,\" Nobuhide said, \"and so did I. There's no mud on my kimono or my shoes.\"\n\n\"He's right,\" Yoshiko said. \"He came home in the same clothes he wore the night before, and they were clean.\"\n\n\"Because he wasn't wearing his clothes when he killed your father,\" Hiro said. \"He was dressed as a prostitute.\"" } ]