The Importance Of Rice
- Thread starter storybookknight
- Start date
- OOC
- Location
- United States
Out of curiosity, what does "ruined city survivor" do? It's from strongholds, I'm a ruined city survivor, might be cool. Sorry for the 11th hour pestering.
I found a big list of game mechanics, but it only lists where they are, not what they do.
Ruined City Survivor
4pt Disadvantage
A duty posting within the Ruined City is a difficult one at best. The city is dangerous and short of resources, save what can be taken from the ruins, refurbished, and turned into an asset. Still, many stationed within the city must make the best of sub-standard equipment as a result of availability. You receive no koku as part of your starting Outfit, and two items from your Outfit are missing as well (you choose which ones are missing
A Nation's Virtue
南國山河南帝居
It's a disadvantage that costs you all your koku and two items from your outfit. It's also inapplicable since in this case the Ruined City refers to Otosan Uchi.Out of curiosity, what does "ruined city survivor" do? It's from strongholds, I'm a ruined city survivor, might be cool
I found a big list of game mechanics, but it only lists where they are, not what they do.
EDIT: Hida Kenta's real name is Hida Kanchimi.
Last edited:
Darn, it's about people who are still posted there. Ah well, name sounded cool at least.
- Location
- United States
It's a disadvantage that costs you all your koku and two items from your outfit. It's also inapplicable since in this case the Ruined City refers to Otosan Uchi.
EDIT: Hida Kenta's real name is Hida Kanchimi.
Dude, that is one giant Shinobi...his hand could wrap around that lion's head.
Hida Moshibaru Kenta Approves of giant Crab ninja
- Location
- United States
@Mina
Tsunari's death was harsh, but that was the situation at the end of the 2nd arc.
These are my notes that started that storyline, probably about 15 sessions before the end. It gives some indication on how everything looked, and what those (in)glorious bastards did to my broken empire.
Tsunari's death was harsh, but that was the situation at the end of the 2nd arc.
These are my notes that started that storyline, probably about 15 sessions before the end. It gives some indication on how everything looked, and what those (in)glorious bastards did to my broken empire.
Clan Status as up the year 1138 in the Shattered Empire after the five year break since events of Mirror, Mirror.
General Events: During the last days of the winter court it is announced that Champion Hida Kisada has died. His daughter Hida O-Ushi officially becomes Champion of the Crab. Her first official act is to arrange a marriage between herself and a very surprised Shinjo Yasamura, the son of Unicorn Champion Shinjo Yokatsu. Following the funeral of her father and her wedding, the court is thrown into further disorder from several announcements: First, that the Clans officially and publicly recognize the implications of the possessed Emperor, and that as the dark one his edicts held no force of authority. The exile of the Akodo Family of the Lion and the Destruction of the Scorpion family are ended and they are restored to their previous positions. A large number of Crab-Scorpion marriages are announced and the Scorpion are bound into a defensive pact with the Crab for a period of one generation. Many hostages are exchanged. A similar arrangement happens between the Unicorn-Scorpion, although the Unicorn gain control of Ryoko Owari, an issue that will cause problems in the future.
The Second announcement is even more of a concern. O-Ushi bluntly informs the surviving Crane Delegates, led by Daidoji Iruko, her intention to seize all of Earthquake Fish Bay and the fertile land south of Asahina. She also informs him that if she has to take it by force her armies may not stop there. The Crane leave immediately. The Crab winter court is declared over. The Crab invade almost before the crane delegate reaches his territories, this action having been apparently prepared for some time. Caught between the Matsu and the full might of the crab, the southern crane holdings fold quickly, losing almost half of their land. A desperate defense outside the Daidoji Castle succeeds in stopping the crab advance, and a shadowlands attack forces the crab to withdraw to the lands around Asahina. Several heroes were made in the war, most notably the Bearer of Chukendomo, Daidoji Iruko. She led a party of warriors and ashiguru in a successful ambush of the crab general the invasion, Killing Hida Tsuru in single combat while the town burned around them. She is now the Heir apparent to the Childless Daidoji Uji. Unfortunately, pressed to the south as they are, they are unable to prevent the Mastu army, commanded by the "Butcher" Matsu Gohei, from taken Kyuden Kakita by storm and razing it and the surrounding town to the ground. Compounding matters, a few days before the Lion assault the Emerald Champion Kakita Toshimoko was slain in a duel with the Ronin Dairya, although the Ronin was slain as well.
The Lion declare their honor has been satisfied for the Kakita fermenting rebellion in their provinces and return home (Thanks JOE!), leaving the northern Crane lands devastated. The Crane are unable to retake the land south of Asahina, but the crab are also unable to push further north. Famine spreads as so much of the most productive farmland in the empire is laid to waste. After five years of constant fighting, an armistice is signed. With the cranes enraged over the loss of territory and the functional destruction of the Asahina, it is unknown how long this lull in the fighting will last.
Imperial Authority wanes throughout this period. With the death of the Emerald Champion, any semblance of Imperial Order dies with him. Increasingly, tales reach you of Emerald Magistrates being killed by bandits, leaving the service and returning to their clans, or even in a few cases, executed by daimyo for interference. The Imperial legions were largely shattered on the 2nd day of thunder, and never truly rebuilt themselves. Clan samurai leave the legions as their terms expire, and few new replacements are found. What remains is made mainly up from Suppun forces, and honorable Ronin. Clans stop paying taxes to the imperial court, and imperial authority only reaches Otosan Uchi and the Hub villages. The Miya are forced to cease the imperial gift, as funds run out. The Otomo have ended their long civil war, as following the unexpected death of the prior Daimyo, Otomo Banu has risen to lead the family. He claims relation to the fallen Hantei line, and demands the clans recognize him has the legitimate emperor. Only the Crane respond, but offer alliance, not fealty. Time will tell weather Banu has the ability to bring the clans under his influence.
THE CRAB: The great bear of the Crab, Hida Kisada, has finally succumbed to his injuries from the day of thunder. Having spent the last years of his life dictating to his scribes the plan of action he believes the crab must take to survive in a fractured Rokugan. Following his design, O-Ushi invades the crane and absorbs the Sparrow and Falcon clans, who become families inside the crab. Their attempt to subjugate the fox were briefly successful, but the Fox Daimyo Kitsune Ryosai led a successful revolt by using the clan's spirit allies and joining the growing Mantis Clan. This action strained relations between the crab and the mantis, but a costly naval battle between the two and this action drawing the Mantis unto the side of the crane in the war kept the crab from pursuing the matter. At the start of the year 1138, the crab have the weakened scorpion as allies, and enemies in the Crane and mantis, and poor relations with all other clans. Their navy is rebuilding from losses sustained in the last year, and a twenty goblin winter has been declared (more to replenish manpower than due to the shadowlands being active).They are self-sufficient for the first time in its history, and while weak politically, are one of the strongest clans at the moment.
THE CRANE: The crane clan now scarcely resembles itself from as little as a decade ago. Spending the majority of the last five year in war with both the Lion and the Crab, they have lost close to a third of their southern territory. The ancestral home of the Kakita was captured by the Matsu, who razed the castle and the dojo before withdrawing. The ancestral home of the Asahina was similarly captured by the Crab and was left in ruins, its town abandoned and largely destroyed. The Asahina were largely wiped out, with less than thirty surviving the war. Most of those that did survive have abandoned the traditional pacifism of their family. Many of them have, in fact, requested tutelage under the phoenix in the hopes of learning the war magic's that may enable them to retake their lands. The crane have always been one of the most populous of clans, although they have traditionally trained a far higher percentage of their samurai for the courts or as artisans, this tradition is beginning to change. Modern cranes are far more warlike than in the past with many abandoning peaceful pursuits and joining the Daidoji or Kakita schools, and the Champion Doji Kuwanan and Daidoji Daimyo Daidoji Uji are undoubtedly planning some way to retake its southern holdings. The young Kakita Kaiten now leads that family and is invested in rebuilding Kyuden Kakita. The Crane are strongly allied to the Phoenix and Mantis, Friendly with the Dragon and Unicorn, Neutral to the Scorpion, and Hostile to Crab and Lion. They still have many favors they may call on, but the lack of power in the courts is beginning to wear on them.
DRAGON: To the surrounding clans, nothing of import has happened to the Clan of Togashi, but the Dragon struggle internally as its ancient duties unravel. Togashi Hoshi, son of the Kami himself, shows little interest in ruling his clan directly…or at all. In his absence the Mirumoto lead the clan abroad, and more and more wonder why they stay in the mountains as the rest of Rokugan burns. The Family has extended its protection to the City of the Rich Frog after a Bandit army nearly sacked the city, but the move has drawn both the Lion and the Unicorn into the area to contest the action. The Mirumoto did not originally intend to annex the city, but with the other two clans looking on with greedy eyes, they may not have a choice should the Kaeru plead for protection. Rumors in the last year claim that Hoshi was nearly killed by an assassin or assassins, and Togashi's Daisho stolen in the confusion. The Tattooed monks refuse to comment, although they are seen in the empire more and more commonly, always searching for something, or more commonly, a lost brother. They report to the Legendary Togashi MItsu, and his subordinate Togashi Wayen. The clan is mostly recovered from the 2nd day of thunder, and several of its commanders are agitating for the Dragon to leave the Mountain in force. The dragon are Neutral to everyone, although relations with the Lion and Unicorn are beginning to unravel over the City of the Rich Frog.
LION: The Lion have done well these last five years, with the Matsu family successfully waging a blood feud with the hated Kakita and setting their famed dueling academy to the torch. Notable heroes from that conflict are Matsu Seijuro (Himself Trained by the Kakita), and general Matsu Gohei. This, of course, does not end the bad blood between those two families. That hatred was begun at the dawn of the empire and only the complete destruction of one or the other can resolve it. Despite the victory over the Crane internal divisions, once unthinkable, are starting to break the traditional lion solidarity. Not all were happy to see the Akodo return to power, and the first major act of the new Akodo Daimyo to raise a heimen to the head of a vassal family and fold a small army of Ronin into it incensed no few Matsu. While swords have not been drawn over this, it seems to herald a new era of strife between the two leading families of the Lion. Champion Ikoma Tsunari is an open supporter of the new Akodo Daimyo Kentaro, noting that Toku was long a companion of Tutori and perhaps feeling a kinship with the new lion over their shared teacher. The Matsu and the Hero Kitsu Motso chafe under Tsunerai's leadership, and many whisper that perhaps another should lead. At the start of the year, the Lion's military is stronger than all the other clans, although the Crab and Unicorn closely follow them. They have no allies, and are hostile to the Scorpion, Unicorn, Dragon, and Crane, and are unfriendly to all the others.
MANTIS: Ten years ago the Mantis were a prominent minor clan known mainly for its mercenary tendencies and master of naval warfare. Now, it is a Great clan swiftly rising in power. The Yoritomo family has exponentially increased its strength by both freely offering Ronin the chance to join, and by absorbing several Minor clans; The Wasp, The Centipede, and the Tortoise. Refugees from the Sparrow who could not continence fealty to the crab, and the Fox, who lead a revolt against the same, further strengthened the Mantis. Yoritomo's political situation is still precarious, however. Many of the new members bring unsavory pasts or have caused incidents between the other clans. Offering the Fox protection compelled the Mantis into direct conflict with the Crab, and the scattered holdings of the mantis made truly unifying the disparate plans impossible in so short a time. The Mantis still function as an alliance of Families, and each family has brought its own politics with them. Yoritomo can only count on the absolute loyalty of the Tsuruchi family and their distant holdings from the Mantis Isles complicate matters. Being drawn into the war with the Crab cemented what was a cold alliance with the Crane, who made full use of Mantis involvement. Doji Chomei, the former Crane ambassador to Yoritomo's Alliance, now holds the Distinction of serving two masters, as Doji Kuwanan has ordered him to swear fealty to Yoritomo to facilitate the Cooperation between the two clans. His twin oaths have not yet affected his duties, and with the current close relationship the Mantis and the Crane enjoy, it may not ever. The mantis fleet is swiftly recovering from the damage of the last years, but the cease-fire with the crab has allowed the Mantis to look into another, perhaps more troubling issue. Strange Ships of unknown design have been sighted in the open seas and along the Crab-Crane coasts. Swifter then the Mantis vessels, Yoritomo has not yet been able to force a battle with the strangers. At the start of the year, the Mantis are roughly equal in strength to the Phoenix and Crane, and are strongly allied to the Scorpion and Crane, hostile to the Crab and Phoenix (Who still look down on the upjumped "minor clan") and neutral to all others.
PHEONIX: The Phoenix position is tenuous, easily the weakest clan in terms of military might, and the policy of freely inducting Ronin Shugenja has diluted the once overwhelming superiority of the Phoenix magical capability. The Lion openly argued that in its weakened state, perhaps the Phoenix should be reduced to Minor status, and more capable clans granted stewardship of their empty provinces. Only two positions have been filled on the Elemental Council, the post of Master of Earth, held by the shockingly young Isawa Teuruko, and post of Master of Fire, held by Isawa Hoichui. The Shiba Firmly guide the clan for the first time since the time of the Kami, and they have chosen to rebuild. They only emerged in force in the last years of the Crab-Crane war, to provide Humanitarian Aid to the lands of the Crane. The clan is also changing due to the influx of its newest members, becoming far less conservative then in the past. Many of these newcomers do not share the traditional pacifism of the Phoenix, but to date Champion Shiba Tsukune has kept them firmly under control. As they progress in their education, they may become a problem. Already several incidents have occurred between the Dragon, Lion, and Mantis. The Inquisitors report an explosion in cult activity in recent years as well, and it seems that several bloodspeakers have used the opportunity to infiltrate the Clan of Shiba. At the start the Phoenix are the weakest clan, behind even the Mantis. They have no enemies, yet, but only are strongly allied to the Crane.
SCORPION: The reestablishment of the Scorpion Clan was bittersweet. The Recognition of the other clans that they had acted in the interst of the empire did little to mitigate the crippling loss of manpower and damage to scorpion territory. The greatest city of the scorpion, Ryoko Owari, is now a Unicorn holding, the Crab have taken the Shrine of Osano-Wo, and the mountainous Yogo Provence's are infested by a large Undead army lead by Tsukuro and including the Undead Berserker Hida Amoro, and a large network of bandits lead by the Former Akodo Kano hinders the rebuilding of the clan of secrets. Many scorpion had spent the last decade cursing Bayushi Yojiro for disloyalty or even attempting to kill him, the revelation that he had been protecting the sword Itsuwari raised the opinion many held of him. The Clan is led by Bayushi Aramoro, brother to the revered Bayushi Shoju. His son Aramasu serves the lord of the Mantis as a ward and hostage, and the mantis look to be a major allies of the scorpion for many years. Many more scorpion survived than anybody realized, and the clan is stronger than the Crane, Mantis, and Phoenix, and many were revealed to have been governing their lands through proxies anyway, disruption from them reasserting themselves is kept to a minimum. The Alliance with the crab was instrumental in securing the resources and talent necessary to rebuilt its ruined fortresses. Aramoro has kept his clan out of the recent wars while attempting to rebuild, but the lack of a central government is retarding the re-establishment of scorpion political power, and the Lion flatly refuse to receive scorpion emissaries. Were it not for the recent wars the Lion have been in, it is likely that Matsu would have invaded already. Even more concerning is growing unrest throughout the peasant population, agitated by a cabal of monks called the "Pure Land" sect. At the start of the year, the scorpion are stronger than the Phoenix, crane, and Mantis. They are hostile to the lion, and friendly to all others, although the relationship with the unicorn are strained over Ryoko Owari. They have defensive agreements with the Unicorn, Crane, Crab, and Mantis, but those alliances to not obligate those allies to intervene in internal matters, such as bandits, peasant revolt, and undead. The majority of Scorpion attention is internal for the moment.
UNICORN: The Unicorn may be in the best position of all the clans at the start of 1138. They survived the clan war more or less intact, and suffered comparatively few casualties on the 2nd day of thunder. Yokatsu has also kept his clan out of the recent wars and gained new territory in former scorpion land. Their lands are secure, their people happy, and their armies strong. This does not mean all is well with the clan of Shinjo. The Dragon have seemingly claimed the valuable City of the Rich Frog, an area arguably within the dominion of the Unicorn, the Lion have also claimed the area, and skirmishes have broken out in the area. During the feud between the Iuchi and the Ikoma it was revealed the Shuten Doji of Fear had been unleashed. Only the heroic actions of a band of peacemakers and magistrates, led by Miya Yumi, and the sacrifice of two Emerald Legions kept disaster at bay. The consequences were only known later, warped from surviving the event, Iuchi Shaihai, the daughter of the family daimyo, murdered her father and fled justice. She has since become a Maho-Tsukai of fearful ability, and a large part of the clan's magistrates are committed to hunting her down. Given the chaos in the rest of Rokugan, Yokatsu has been heard to wonder whether it would be better for a strong man to take the empty throne, as this future inter-clan warfare angers the compassionate clan. At the start the Unicorn nearly match the Lion in military might, and lack the many enemies of the lion. They are unfriendly to the lion and dragon, and friendly to all others.
PARTY
Joe: Ide Sezeru (Ise Zumi/Ide Diplomat)
Jace: Tonbo Zencho (Tonbo Shugenjo 4) 203 (Disadvantage: Spirits hate him, Can't Lie, Dark secret and forbidding knowledge Polvara) Dependant child and both haunted by dead wife.
Dave: Yoritomo Dabu (Yoritomo Bushi 3) 186 (Disadvantage: Ikoma Tsunari, Matsu Shindoku, Kaui Takakano. Greedy, Gambler, Insensitive)
Daves Wife: Kakita Emiko 175 (Doji Courtier/Daidoji Spymaster Rank 3) (Disadvantage: Obligation: Daidoji Uji), Read Lips, Hates Crab. Jealously (Chris's wife, Bayushi Susumi) Contrary
Chris; Bayushi Takahiko (Crab Bushi 3) 185 (Disadvantage: Brash, Lost love (brother), Alcoholic) True love (wife, and karmic tie) Tactician
Nate: Togashi Daigotsu (Kaze-Do Tattooed Monk 4) 200 (Disadvantages: Evil Eye, Gets bored, Dark Fate, Lechery, Compulsive duelist, infamous (Right bastard in duels and causing them) Can see and talk to Kami.
2nd arc start: Call of Storms
Points to keep in mind:
Murder information: Togashi Teuroku was here for months. She spent much of her time among the Heimen in the area. She claimed she was here to gain perspective on the Mantis. (*Peasants and eta know of her, she ignored social lines and commonly helped in lower work and blessings*). After a few months she disappeared. It was assumed she had moved on, until one of the eta who work at the Furnaces recognized a token of hers on the body of a murder victim. She had been skinned alive, while restrained and possibly drugged. Her belongs were missing, and her residence emptied. This all happened two and a half months ago, just before the armistice was signed. The skinning madman had been active for the last half year, but she was the last victim. (*Monks in the area remember the little togashi monk, fondly and are unaware she was even dead. They assumed she moved on with her hunt. She was often see in the company of her budoka Din. The monks are less happy about Din. After she disappeared he felt abandoned, and became violent. He was arrested several times for violence. He may be in confinement now actually.*) Din is indeed in jail, awaiting his sentencing (Conscription upon a mantis warship). He believes his master left him. That's what her monk friend Mutsuma told him. When Din told Mutsuma she wouldn't do that he gave him his tonfa and kicked him through a wall. Mutsuma was a darkly tanned man with Ise Zumi tattoos, although he told Din he was No Ise Zumi. (Description of Mutsuma is very close to Kokujin, lore roll will recall Togashi Mutsuma IS the man who became Kokujin). Din remembers some of the Other Monks with Mutsuma had scorpion accents and seemed higher rank then regular monks. All took direction from Mutsuma. One of them mentioned how he couldn't wait to return to Shutai, to "properly educate the masses now that their masters have returned.
Notable NPC's at this time, Chosen due to possibility of coming into (or remaining in) contact with the Party.
HIDA O-USHI, CRAB CLAN CHAMPION
AIR: 4 EARTH: 5 FIRE: 5 WATER: 4 STRENGTH: 6 VOID: 5
Honor: 4.3 Status: 8.0 Glory: 8.0
School/Rank: Hida Bushi 5
Skills: Lore (Shadowlands) 6, Lore (Crab Clan) 5, Athletics 5, Battle (Mass Combat, Skirmish) 4, Defense 5, Hunting 3, Iaijutsu 4, Jiujutsu 4, Heavy Weapons (Dai-Tsuchi) 6, Kenjutsu 4, Intimidation 6.
Advantages: Blood of Osano-Wo, Crab Hands, Great Destiny, Inheritance (Chikara and the Sword of the Hantei), Social Position (Clan Champion), Strength of the Earth.
Disadvantages: Brash, Failure of Bushido (Courtesy), Bad Reputation (Bully) Overconfident
HIDA ROHITEKI, ADVISER TO THE CRAB CHAMPION
AIR: 3 EARTH: 5 FIRE: 4 WATER; 3 VOID: 3
Honor: 3.5 Status: 6.2 Glory: 6
School/Rank: Kuni 4
Skills: Calligraphy (Crab cipher) 2, Defense 4, Lore: Shadowlands 5 Lore: theology 3, Spell craft 5, kenjutsu 2, Athletics (running) 3, Stealth (ambush) 4, Investigation (notice) 2, Etiquette 3, Heavy weapons 4, Lore: Maho 4
Advantages: Great Destiny, Forbidden Knowledge: Maho, Allies (most party members)
Disadvantages: Sworn Enemy (Daidoji Iruko)
DOJI KUWANAN
Earth: 5 Water: 6 Fire: 4 Agility: 5 Air: 3 Reflexes: 5 Void: 4
School/Rank: Daidoji Bodyguard 5, Hida Bushi 1, Lion Bushi 1
Glory: 8.7 Status: 8.4 Honor: 7.6
Advantages: Clear Thinker, Different School: Lion Bushi, Multiple Schools: Crane & Crab, Kakita Blade (Omeka)
Disadvantages: Driven, Lost Love (Isawa Nosuriko), Sworn Enemy (Matsu Hiroru)
Skills: Armorer 4, Athletics 4, Battle 8 (Mass Combat), Courtier 5, Defense 7, Etiquette 5, Horsemanship 4, Iaijutsu 5, Jiujutsu 4, Kenjutsu 7, Kyujutsu 4, Lore (Crab Clan) 3, Lore (Lion Clan) 5, Lore (Shadowlands) 2, Oratory 2, Shintao 3, Sincerity 3, Subojutsu 4, Weaponsmith 3, Yarijutsu 4
Kata: One Leg Stance, Striking as Water, Striking as Fire
DAIDOJI UJI
Earth: 5 Water: 4 Strength: 5 Fire: 3 Agility: 5 Air: 6 Void: 4
School/Rank: Daidoji Bodyguard 5, Daidoji Harrier 1
Dojo: Mountain's Shadow Dojo
Glory: 7.6 Status: 7.9 Honor: 4.2
Advantages: Ancestor (Daidoji Yurei), Multiple Schools, Quick Healer, Way of the Land
Disadvantages: Fascination (Gaijin)
Skills: Archery 4, Appraisal 3, Battle 8, Commerce 4, Defense 6, Etiquette 2, Explosives 2, Hunting 2, Iaijutsu 4, Kenjutsu 6, Lore (Gaijin Culture) 2, Lore (Gaijin Warfare) 4, "Sai-bore" Technique (gaijin weapon) 2, Shintao 3
DAIDOJI IRUKO, BEARER OF CHUKANDOMO
AIR: 3 REFLEXES 4 EARTH: 4 FIRE: 4 WATER: 4 VOID: 4
Honor: 6.5 Status: 5.0 Glory: 7.2
School/Rank: Daidoji Iron Warrior 3
Skills: Animal Handling (Falcons) 3, Athletics 2, Battle 5, Commerce 1, Defense 5, Etiquette 2, Hunting (Falconry) 3, Iaijutsu 5, Investigation (Notice) 5, Kenjutsu (Katana) 6, Kyujutsu 5, Sincerity 3, Spears 4, Lore: Shadowlands 2, Lore: Maho: 1, Sailing 2
Advantages: Great Destiny, Social Position (Heir to Daidoji Family Daimyo), Strength of the Earth, Crafty, Daredevil, Heart of Vengeance (Matsu, Crab), Way of the Land (Daidoji provinces), Allies (Most party members)
Disadvantages: Benten's Curse, Disturbing Countenance
AKODO KENTARO, AKODO FAMILY DAIMYO (Formerly Nate's Char)
AIR: 3 EARTH: 3 FIRE: 4 WATER: 3 VOID: 3
Honor: 9.7 Status: 7.0 Glory: 8.6
School/Rank: Akodo 3/ Emerald Magistrate 1 (replaces Akodo Rank 4)
Skills: Battle 5 (Mass Combat) , Defense 3, Kenjutsu 5 (Katana), Kyujutsu 2, Lore: history 2, Sincerity: 2, Etiquette 3, Investigation 3, Athletics 2, Horsemanship 1, Hunting 3, Iaijutsu 3, Jujutsu 3, Intimidation 1, Stealth 2, Courtier 3, Lore: Law 3, Lore: Bushido 2, Calligraphy 1, Craft: Woodworking 1, Perform: Oratory 1, Lore: Shadowlands 1, Lore: Maho 1
Advantages: Strength of the Earth, Virtuous, Sacred Weapon, Allies (Ikoma Ushima, Kitsu Motso, Dragon clan, Crab Clan)
Disadvantages: Lechery, Driven (Restore the Akodo to prior power), Bad Reputation (Heiman Lover)
TOKU, AKODO VASSAL FAMILY DAIMYO
AIR: 3 REFLEXES 4 EARTH: 3 FIRE: 4 WATER: 3 STREGTH 4 VOID: 4 WILLPOWER: 4
Honor: 5.2 Status: 6.0 Glory: 6.1
School/Rank: Toku Bushi 4
Skills: Athletics 3, Animal Handling 3, Artisan: Poetry 1, Battle 4 (Mass Combat), Craft: Farming 2, Defense 4, Etiquette 2, Horsemanship 2, Hunting 4, Investigation (Search) 3, Iaijutsu 3, Kenjutsu (Katana) 5, Kyujutsu 2, Lore: History 2, Lore: Bushido 5, Lore: Theology 2, Spears (Yari) 3
Advantages: Great Destiny, Social Position (Vassal Family Daimyo, Luck (9), Allies (Akodo Kentaro, Ikoma Tsunarai)
Disadvantages: Bad Reputation (Former Heimin), Idealistic
YORITOMO, SON OF STORMS, MANTIS CLAN CHAMPION
AIR: 3 EARTH: 5 FIRE: 4 WATER: 4 VOID: 4 REFLEXES: 4 AGILITY: 5 STRENGTH: 6
Honor: 5.0 Status: 8.3 Glory: 9.5
School/Rank: Yoritomo Bushi 5,
Skills: Athletics 5, Battle (Mass Battle) 6, Commerce 4, Defense 6, Etiquette 1, Jiujutsu 5, Intimidation (Bullying) 7, Investigation 3, Kenjutsu 5, Knives (Kama) 9, Lore: History 2, Lore: Theology 4, Sailing 7 Kata: Son of Storms
Advantages: Great Destiny, Quick, Strength of the Earth
Disadvantages: Bad Reputation (Mercenary), Brash, Insensitive
KITSUNE RYOSEI, LADY OF THE FOX
AIR: 3 EARTH: 4 FIRE: 3 WATER: 3 VOID: 3 AWARENESS: 5 INTELLIGENCE: 4 PERCEPTION: 4
Honor: 6.4 Status: 6.6 Glory: 4.2
School/Rank: Kitsune Shugenja 3
Skills: Animal Handling 2, Athletics 3, Calligraphy 2, Courtier 2, Defense 3, Hunting (Survival, Tracking) 4, Lore: Theology 4, Medicine (Herbalism) 4, Meditation 2, Polearms 4, Spears 2, Spell craft 3
Advantages: Friend of the Brotherhood, Inari's Blessing, Paragon of Courage, Crafty
Disadvantages: Dark Fate, Driven (destroy the Walking Horror of Fu Leng), Bitter Betrothal (Yoritomo Hogasha)
BAYUSHI ARAMORO, CHAMPION OF THE SCORPION
AIR: 4 EARTH: 4 FIRE: 4 WATER: 3 VOID: 5 REFLEXES: 6 STAMINA: 5 AGILITY: 5 STRENGHT: 4
Honor: 3.8 Status: 8.0 Glory: 5.3 Shadowtaint: 1.3
School/Rank: Shosuro Infiltrator 4/Bayushi Saboteur 3
Skills: Acting 3, Athletics 6, Chain Weapons 5, Courtier 3, Defense 6, Iaijutsu (Assessment, Focus) 5, Investigation 4, Intimidation 5, Jiujutsu 6, Kenjutsu (Ninja-to) 6, Knives 5, Lore: Heraldry 4, Lore: Scorpion Clan 3, Lore: Underworld 4, Medicine 3, Meditation 3, Ninjutsu 7, Poison 6, Sincerity 3, Sleight of Hand 5, Stealth (Sneaking) 9, Temptation 2
Advantages: Shadowbrand (1), Crafty, Social Position (Clan Champion), Quick
Disadvantages: Lost Love (Kachiko)
BAYUSHI TANGEN
Earth: 3 Water: 5 Fire: 4 Air: 4 Void: 3
School/Rank: Bayushi Bushi 3, Bitter Lies Swordsman
Glory: 3.6 Status: 4.2 Honor: 2.1
Advantages: Luck (9 Points), Daredevil
Disadvantages: Brash, Gullible
Skills: Acting 2, Archery 4, Athletics 4, Battle 3, Defense 3, Iaijutsu 4, Kenjutsu 6, Poison 3, Sincerity 4, Shintao 3, Sincerity 2, Stealth 3
BAYUSHI YOJIRO, "THE HONEST SCORPION"
AIR: 5 EARTH: 3 FIRE: 3 WATER: 3 VOID: 4 AGILITY: 4
Honor: 6.5 Status: 5.5 Glory: 7.0
School/Rank: Bayushi Courtier 5
Skills: Calligraphy (Cipher) 3, Courtier (Rhetoric) 4, Defense 4, Etiquette (Conversation, Courtesy) 7, Games: Go 3, Games: Shogi 5, Iaijutsu (Focus) 4, Investigation 6, Kenjutsu (Katana, Wakizashi) 5, Lore: Heraldry 5, Lore: Law 6, Sincerity (Honesty) 7, Tea Ceremony 3
Advantages: Allies (many, especially Lion), Blackmail (many), Voice, Clear Mind
Disadvantages: Bad Reputation: Junshin, Soft-Hearted, Unlucky (1 Rank)
OTOMO BANU, IMPERIAL CLAIMATE
AIR: 2 EARTH: 2 FIRE: 2 WATER: 2 VOID: 3 AWARNESS: 4 WILLPOWER 5 INTELLEGENCE: 4 PERCEPTION: 4
Honor: 3.6 Status: 6.0 Glory: 4.2
School/Rank: Otomo Courtier 4
Skills: Calligraphy 3, Courtier (Gossip, Manipulation) 7, Defense 2, Etiquette (Courtesy) 5, Horsemanship 3, Intimidation (Control) 6, Investigation 3, Lore: Heraldry 3, Lore: History 4, Lore: Theater 4, Sincerity (Deceit) 5, Temptation 3
Advantages: Allies (many), Social Position (claimant to the Throne), Wary, Precise Memory, Higher Purpose (Become Emperor)
Disadvantages: Cruel, Driven (to become Emperor)
KOKUJIN
Earth: 4 Water: 4 Fire: 4 Air: 2 Reflexes: 6 Void: 6
School/Rank: Togashi Ise Zumi 3
Glory: -6.3 Status: 0 Honor: 0.4
Advantages: Combat Reflexes, Daredevil, Great Destiny, Hands of Stone, Kaze-do
Disadvantages: Ascetic, Bad Reputation, Dark Fate, Enlightened Madness (6), Fascination (Fu Leng's Name), Insensitive
Skills: Astrology 3, Kaze-do 8, Lore (Shadowlands) 5, Meditation 6, Nazodo 3, Shintao 3, Stealth 5, Tattooing 6, Theology 2, Torture 5, Sincerity 6
Shadowlands Powers: Child of Darkness, Blood Domination, Book of Souls
Taint Symptoms: Darkened skin and tattoos. Kokujin is also prone to outbursts of maniacal laughter and shouting, but it is unknown if this is the fault of his taint or his natural madness.
Tattoos: Chameleon, Cloud, Crescent Moon, Spider, WhiteMask
Kiho: Ai Uchi, Cleansing Spirit, Self/No Selfzd4
TATTOOED MINIONS
Earth 3, Water 3, Fire 3, Air 2 Reflexes 4, Void 4
School/Rank: As before, Plus Ise zumi 1 (Variety of Tattoos)
Advantages: Hands of Stone, Combat Reflexes, Daredevil
Disadvantae: Enlightened Madness, Brash, Overconfident, CONTROLLED
SkillsL Jiujutsu 4, stealth 3, Shintao 3, Theology 3, Torture 3, Sincerity 2
Kiho: Variety of Kiho
New Techniques:
Seijuro's Way (renamed Kenburo's Way) bushi]
Technique Rank: 4 Replaces: Any bushi at Rank 4 Requirements: Intimidation 5, Iaijutsu 5. Must be a student of Matsu Seijuro (the golden Crane).
Technique: The Butchers Gaze
During an iaijutsu duel, before Assessment rolls are made, you may spend a Void Point to take a Free Action and make a Contested Intimidation/Willpower roll against your opponent. (This is considered a Fear effect for the purpose of abilities and mechanics that resist Fear.) If you win the Contested Roll, your opponent's dice do not explode on his Assessment and Focus rolls for this duel.
General Events: During the last days of the winter court it is announced that Champion Hida Kisada has died. His daughter Hida O-Ushi officially becomes Champion of the Crab. Her first official act is to arrange a marriage between herself and a very surprised Shinjo Yasamura, the son of Unicorn Champion Shinjo Yokatsu. Following the funeral of her father and her wedding, the court is thrown into further disorder from several announcements: First, that the Clans officially and publicly recognize the implications of the possessed Emperor, and that as the dark one his edicts held no force of authority. The exile of the Akodo Family of the Lion and the Destruction of the Scorpion family are ended and they are restored to their previous positions. A large number of Crab-Scorpion marriages are announced and the Scorpion are bound into a defensive pact with the Crab for a period of one generation. Many hostages are exchanged. A similar arrangement happens between the Unicorn-Scorpion, although the Unicorn gain control of Ryoko Owari, an issue that will cause problems in the future.
The Second announcement is even more of a concern. O-Ushi bluntly informs the surviving Crane Delegates, led by Daidoji Iruko, her intention to seize all of Earthquake Fish Bay and the fertile land south of Asahina. She also informs him that if she has to take it by force her armies may not stop there. The Crane leave immediately. The Crab winter court is declared over. The Crab invade almost before the crane delegate reaches his territories, this action having been apparently prepared for some time. Caught between the Matsu and the full might of the crab, the southern crane holdings fold quickly, losing almost half of their land. A desperate defense outside the Daidoji Castle succeeds in stopping the crab advance, and a shadowlands attack forces the crab to withdraw to the lands around Asahina. Several heroes were made in the war, most notably the Bearer of Chukendomo, Daidoji Iruko. She led a party of warriors and ashiguru in a successful ambush of the crab general the invasion, Killing Hida Tsuru in single combat while the town burned around them. She is now the Heir apparent to the Childless Daidoji Uji. Unfortunately, pressed to the south as they are, they are unable to prevent the Mastu army, commanded by the "Butcher" Matsu Gohei, from taken Kyuden Kakita by storm and razing it and the surrounding town to the ground. Compounding matters, a few days before the Lion assault the Emerald Champion Kakita Toshimoko was slain in a duel with the Ronin Dairya, although the Ronin was slain as well.
The Lion declare their honor has been satisfied for the Kakita fermenting rebellion in their provinces and return home (Thanks JOE!), leaving the northern Crane lands devastated. The Crane are unable to retake the land south of Asahina, but the crab are also unable to push further north. Famine spreads as so much of the most productive farmland in the empire is laid to waste. After five years of constant fighting, an armistice is signed. With the cranes enraged over the loss of territory and the functional destruction of the Asahina, it is unknown how long this lull in the fighting will last.
Imperial Authority wanes throughout this period. With the death of the Emerald Champion, any semblance of Imperial Order dies with him. Increasingly, tales reach you of Emerald Magistrates being killed by bandits, leaving the service and returning to their clans, or even in a few cases, executed by daimyo for interference. The Imperial legions were largely shattered on the 2nd day of thunder, and never truly rebuilt themselves. Clan samurai leave the legions as their terms expire, and few new replacements are found. What remains is made mainly up from Suppun forces, and honorable Ronin. Clans stop paying taxes to the imperial court, and imperial authority only reaches Otosan Uchi and the Hub villages. The Miya are forced to cease the imperial gift, as funds run out. The Otomo have ended their long civil war, as following the unexpected death of the prior Daimyo, Otomo Banu has risen to lead the family. He claims relation to the fallen Hantei line, and demands the clans recognize him has the legitimate emperor. Only the Crane respond, but offer alliance, not fealty. Time will tell weather Banu has the ability to bring the clans under his influence.
THE CRAB: The great bear of the Crab, Hida Kisada, has finally succumbed to his injuries from the day of thunder. Having spent the last years of his life dictating to his scribes the plan of action he believes the crab must take to survive in a fractured Rokugan. Following his design, O-Ushi invades the crane and absorbs the Sparrow and Falcon clans, who become families inside the crab. Their attempt to subjugate the fox were briefly successful, but the Fox Daimyo Kitsune Ryosai led a successful revolt by using the clan's spirit allies and joining the growing Mantis Clan. This action strained relations between the crab and the mantis, but a costly naval battle between the two and this action drawing the Mantis unto the side of the crane in the war kept the crab from pursuing the matter. At the start of the year 1138, the crab have the weakened scorpion as allies, and enemies in the Crane and mantis, and poor relations with all other clans. Their navy is rebuilding from losses sustained in the last year, and a twenty goblin winter has been declared (more to replenish manpower than due to the shadowlands being active).They are self-sufficient for the first time in its history, and while weak politically, are one of the strongest clans at the moment.
THE CRANE: The crane clan now scarcely resembles itself from as little as a decade ago. Spending the majority of the last five year in war with both the Lion and the Crab, they have lost close to a third of their southern territory. The ancestral home of the Kakita was captured by the Matsu, who razed the castle and the dojo before withdrawing. The ancestral home of the Asahina was similarly captured by the Crab and was left in ruins, its town abandoned and largely destroyed. The Asahina were largely wiped out, with less than thirty surviving the war. Most of those that did survive have abandoned the traditional pacifism of their family. Many of them have, in fact, requested tutelage under the phoenix in the hopes of learning the war magic's that may enable them to retake their lands. The crane have always been one of the most populous of clans, although they have traditionally trained a far higher percentage of their samurai for the courts or as artisans, this tradition is beginning to change. Modern cranes are far more warlike than in the past with many abandoning peaceful pursuits and joining the Daidoji or Kakita schools, and the Champion Doji Kuwanan and Daidoji Daimyo Daidoji Uji are undoubtedly planning some way to retake its southern holdings. The young Kakita Kaiten now leads that family and is invested in rebuilding Kyuden Kakita. The Crane are strongly allied to the Phoenix and Mantis, Friendly with the Dragon and Unicorn, Neutral to the Scorpion, and Hostile to Crab and Lion. They still have many favors they may call on, but the lack of power in the courts is beginning to wear on them.
DRAGON: To the surrounding clans, nothing of import has happened to the Clan of Togashi, but the Dragon struggle internally as its ancient duties unravel. Togashi Hoshi, son of the Kami himself, shows little interest in ruling his clan directly…or at all. In his absence the Mirumoto lead the clan abroad, and more and more wonder why they stay in the mountains as the rest of Rokugan burns. The Family has extended its protection to the City of the Rich Frog after a Bandit army nearly sacked the city, but the move has drawn both the Lion and the Unicorn into the area to contest the action. The Mirumoto did not originally intend to annex the city, but with the other two clans looking on with greedy eyes, they may not have a choice should the Kaeru plead for protection. Rumors in the last year claim that Hoshi was nearly killed by an assassin or assassins, and Togashi's Daisho stolen in the confusion. The Tattooed monks refuse to comment, although they are seen in the empire more and more commonly, always searching for something, or more commonly, a lost brother. They report to the Legendary Togashi MItsu, and his subordinate Togashi Wayen. The clan is mostly recovered from the 2nd day of thunder, and several of its commanders are agitating for the Dragon to leave the Mountain in force. The dragon are Neutral to everyone, although relations with the Lion and Unicorn are beginning to unravel over the City of the Rich Frog.
LION: The Lion have done well these last five years, with the Matsu family successfully waging a blood feud with the hated Kakita and setting their famed dueling academy to the torch. Notable heroes from that conflict are Matsu Seijuro (Himself Trained by the Kakita), and general Matsu Gohei. This, of course, does not end the bad blood between those two families. That hatred was begun at the dawn of the empire and only the complete destruction of one or the other can resolve it. Despite the victory over the Crane internal divisions, once unthinkable, are starting to break the traditional lion solidarity. Not all were happy to see the Akodo return to power, and the first major act of the new Akodo Daimyo to raise a heimen to the head of a vassal family and fold a small army of Ronin into it incensed no few Matsu. While swords have not been drawn over this, it seems to herald a new era of strife between the two leading families of the Lion. Champion Ikoma Tsunari is an open supporter of the new Akodo Daimyo Kentaro, noting that Toku was long a companion of Tutori and perhaps feeling a kinship with the new lion over their shared teacher. The Matsu and the Hero Kitsu Motso chafe under Tsunerai's leadership, and many whisper that perhaps another should lead. At the start of the year, the Lion's military is stronger than all the other clans, although the Crab and Unicorn closely follow them. They have no allies, and are hostile to the Scorpion, Unicorn, Dragon, and Crane, and are unfriendly to all the others.
MANTIS: Ten years ago the Mantis were a prominent minor clan known mainly for its mercenary tendencies and master of naval warfare. Now, it is a Great clan swiftly rising in power. The Yoritomo family has exponentially increased its strength by both freely offering Ronin the chance to join, and by absorbing several Minor clans; The Wasp, The Centipede, and the Tortoise. Refugees from the Sparrow who could not continence fealty to the crab, and the Fox, who lead a revolt against the same, further strengthened the Mantis. Yoritomo's political situation is still precarious, however. Many of the new members bring unsavory pasts or have caused incidents between the other clans. Offering the Fox protection compelled the Mantis into direct conflict with the Crab, and the scattered holdings of the mantis made truly unifying the disparate plans impossible in so short a time. The Mantis still function as an alliance of Families, and each family has brought its own politics with them. Yoritomo can only count on the absolute loyalty of the Tsuruchi family and their distant holdings from the Mantis Isles complicate matters. Being drawn into the war with the Crab cemented what was a cold alliance with the Crane, who made full use of Mantis involvement. Doji Chomei, the former Crane ambassador to Yoritomo's Alliance, now holds the Distinction of serving two masters, as Doji Kuwanan has ordered him to swear fealty to Yoritomo to facilitate the Cooperation between the two clans. His twin oaths have not yet affected his duties, and with the current close relationship the Mantis and the Crane enjoy, it may not ever. The mantis fleet is swiftly recovering from the damage of the last years, but the cease-fire with the crab has allowed the Mantis to look into another, perhaps more troubling issue. Strange Ships of unknown design have been sighted in the open seas and along the Crab-Crane coasts. Swifter then the Mantis vessels, Yoritomo has not yet been able to force a battle with the strangers. At the start of the year, the Mantis are roughly equal in strength to the Phoenix and Crane, and are strongly allied to the Scorpion and Crane, hostile to the Crab and Phoenix (Who still look down on the upjumped "minor clan") and neutral to all others.
PHEONIX: The Phoenix position is tenuous, easily the weakest clan in terms of military might, and the policy of freely inducting Ronin Shugenja has diluted the once overwhelming superiority of the Phoenix magical capability. The Lion openly argued that in its weakened state, perhaps the Phoenix should be reduced to Minor status, and more capable clans granted stewardship of their empty provinces. Only two positions have been filled on the Elemental Council, the post of Master of Earth, held by the shockingly young Isawa Teuruko, and post of Master of Fire, held by Isawa Hoichui. The Shiba Firmly guide the clan for the first time since the time of the Kami, and they have chosen to rebuild. They only emerged in force in the last years of the Crab-Crane war, to provide Humanitarian Aid to the lands of the Crane. The clan is also changing due to the influx of its newest members, becoming far less conservative then in the past. Many of these newcomers do not share the traditional pacifism of the Phoenix, but to date Champion Shiba Tsukune has kept them firmly under control. As they progress in their education, they may become a problem. Already several incidents have occurred between the Dragon, Lion, and Mantis. The Inquisitors report an explosion in cult activity in recent years as well, and it seems that several bloodspeakers have used the opportunity to infiltrate the Clan of Shiba. At the start the Phoenix are the weakest clan, behind even the Mantis. They have no enemies, yet, but only are strongly allied to the Crane.
SCORPION: The reestablishment of the Scorpion Clan was bittersweet. The Recognition of the other clans that they had acted in the interst of the empire did little to mitigate the crippling loss of manpower and damage to scorpion territory. The greatest city of the scorpion, Ryoko Owari, is now a Unicorn holding, the Crab have taken the Shrine of Osano-Wo, and the mountainous Yogo Provence's are infested by a large Undead army lead by Tsukuro and including the Undead Berserker Hida Amoro, and a large network of bandits lead by the Former Akodo Kano hinders the rebuilding of the clan of secrets. Many scorpion had spent the last decade cursing Bayushi Yojiro for disloyalty or even attempting to kill him, the revelation that he had been protecting the sword Itsuwari raised the opinion many held of him. The Clan is led by Bayushi Aramoro, brother to the revered Bayushi Shoju. His son Aramasu serves the lord of the Mantis as a ward and hostage, and the mantis look to be a major allies of the scorpion for many years. Many more scorpion survived than anybody realized, and the clan is stronger than the Crane, Mantis, and Phoenix, and many were revealed to have been governing their lands through proxies anyway, disruption from them reasserting themselves is kept to a minimum. The Alliance with the crab was instrumental in securing the resources and talent necessary to rebuilt its ruined fortresses. Aramoro has kept his clan out of the recent wars while attempting to rebuild, but the lack of a central government is retarding the re-establishment of scorpion political power, and the Lion flatly refuse to receive scorpion emissaries. Were it not for the recent wars the Lion have been in, it is likely that Matsu would have invaded already. Even more concerning is growing unrest throughout the peasant population, agitated by a cabal of monks called the "Pure Land" sect. At the start of the year, the scorpion are stronger than the Phoenix, crane, and Mantis. They are hostile to the lion, and friendly to all others, although the relationship with the unicorn are strained over Ryoko Owari. They have defensive agreements with the Unicorn, Crane, Crab, and Mantis, but those alliances to not obligate those allies to intervene in internal matters, such as bandits, peasant revolt, and undead. The majority of Scorpion attention is internal for the moment.
UNICORN: The Unicorn may be in the best position of all the clans at the start of 1138. They survived the clan war more or less intact, and suffered comparatively few casualties on the 2nd day of thunder. Yokatsu has also kept his clan out of the recent wars and gained new territory in former scorpion land. Their lands are secure, their people happy, and their armies strong. This does not mean all is well with the clan of Shinjo. The Dragon have seemingly claimed the valuable City of the Rich Frog, an area arguably within the dominion of the Unicorn, the Lion have also claimed the area, and skirmishes have broken out in the area. During the feud between the Iuchi and the Ikoma it was revealed the Shuten Doji of Fear had been unleashed. Only the heroic actions of a band of peacemakers and magistrates, led by Miya Yumi, and the sacrifice of two Emerald Legions kept disaster at bay. The consequences were only known later, warped from surviving the event, Iuchi Shaihai, the daughter of the family daimyo, murdered her father and fled justice. She has since become a Maho-Tsukai of fearful ability, and a large part of the clan's magistrates are committed to hunting her down. Given the chaos in the rest of Rokugan, Yokatsu has been heard to wonder whether it would be better for a strong man to take the empty throne, as this future inter-clan warfare angers the compassionate clan. At the start the Unicorn nearly match the Lion in military might, and lack the many enemies of the lion. They are unfriendly to the lion and dragon, and friendly to all others.
PARTY
Joe: Ide Sezeru (Ise Zumi/Ide Diplomat)
Jace: Tonbo Zencho (Tonbo Shugenjo 4) 203 (Disadvantage: Spirits hate him, Can't Lie, Dark secret and forbidding knowledge Polvara) Dependant child and both haunted by dead wife.
Dave: Yoritomo Dabu (Yoritomo Bushi 3) 186 (Disadvantage: Ikoma Tsunari, Matsu Shindoku, Kaui Takakano. Greedy, Gambler, Insensitive)
Daves Wife: Kakita Emiko 175 (Doji Courtier/Daidoji Spymaster Rank 3) (Disadvantage: Obligation: Daidoji Uji), Read Lips, Hates Crab. Jealously (Chris's wife, Bayushi Susumi) Contrary
Chris; Bayushi Takahiko (Crab Bushi 3) 185 (Disadvantage: Brash, Lost love (brother), Alcoholic) True love (wife, and karmic tie) Tactician
Nate: Togashi Daigotsu (Kaze-Do Tattooed Monk 4) 200 (Disadvantages: Evil Eye, Gets bored, Dark Fate, Lechery, Compulsive duelist, infamous (Right bastard in duels and causing them) Can see and talk to Kami.
2nd arc start: Call of Storms
Points to keep in mind:
- Yoritomo invites Ide Sezeru, Bayushi Takahiko, and Tonbo Zencho due to his prior dealings with them. In his letter he requests their presence at Kyuden Gusai to discuss the "Imminent threats to Rokugan".
- Yoritomo Dabu and his new wife Kakita Emiko are already present at Yoritomo's Court. Dabu has some information but Yoritomo is allowing him to assume the purpose of the meeting.
- Togashi Daigotsu is part of the Dragon hunt for Kokujin. Togashi Mitsu and Togashi Wayen have information that while he is somewhere in the scorpion provinces, he went to the Mantis Isles first. Another monk was sent to check that lead, and her letters indicated she had had a breakthrough. Days later a letter from Yoritomo Annek'ago (Yoritomo's Karo) regretfully informs them her body had been found, skinned, on the beach near Kyuden Gusai. Togashi Daigotsu has been sent to recover her belongings and question how she died. This also includes an invitation to attend a Summit held by Yoritomo with members of several other clans.
- Attendance: Daidoji Iruko attends for the Crane, the Crab and Lion declined to send a representative, Takahiko's wife attends for the Scorpion, Shinjo Hanari attends for the Unicorn, Isawa Goro (apprentice to the master of fire) attends for the Phoenix, Mirumoto Kojiro attends for the Dragon, all the Mantis Daimyo have been compelled to attend. Retinues are kept to a max of 4 total. Finally, the "Emperor of Rokugan", Hantei the 40th(Otomo Banu), has sent Seppun Toshiken, Miya Yumi, and Otomo Youme (Daimyo's of their families, each posseses 3 yojimbo) in response to Yoritomo's request and to demand (again) the fealty of the attending clans. The relative secrecy is something that all but the Mantis in attendance comment on, and they refuse to elaborate.
- Lastly, the reason for the Mantis Champion is twofold. There is a great threat to Rokugan, and divided it may not stand against it. The Mantis fleets have encountered a fleet of gaijen design. Yoritomo believes this only the opening stages, scouting landing sights, and gathering information. He wonders if there are traitors helping the gaijin, as one could not walk in the empire unnoticed. Confrontation has revealed the Gaijen ships are superior to anything in the Empire at present. The Empire must be reborn, reformed, or conquered. Otomo Youme interrupts "But Rokugan has an emperor, simply give your fealty to Hantei the 40th and help bring the other wayward champions back in line and Rokugan can be reborn and truly begin the long recovery it so badly needs." Yoritomo replies, "That is not why I invited you imperials here. I invited you here because Otosan Uchi is probably the first place they will attempt to capture. Even a Capital with NO real influence is symbolicly important. We cannot allow an invader to land there". "Then it is vital the clans return to their intended duties, is it not? Otosan Uchi is the Capital of Rokugan still, regardless of if the clans wish it to be so. And I can easily predict that your emperor would be doubly thankful to those clans who joined earliest and reward them appropriately. Perhaps even grant new purpose to those that have before now been…unrecognized." This statement is accompanied by a meaningful look at the Son of Storms. The other delegates begin murmuring to each other, clearly considering the feasibility of what the Otomo Implies.
- If necessary to seal her bid at dominance, Youme mentions, "One last thing, Because of the death of Kakita Toshimoko, the Emperor is has decided to hold a New Test of the Emerald Champion, and due to the troubles still plaguing the empire since the 2nd day of thunder, the Test of the Jade champion. Of course, only representatives from…loyal…subjects would be allowed to attend or compete. The wayward lion and crab are, of course, also being notified on this development." This bring another round of unpleasant murmurs, while the Otomo looks on triumphantly.
Murder information: Togashi Teuroku was here for months. She spent much of her time among the Heimen in the area. She claimed she was here to gain perspective on the Mantis. (*Peasants and eta know of her, she ignored social lines and commonly helped in lower work and blessings*). After a few months she disappeared. It was assumed she had moved on, until one of the eta who work at the Furnaces recognized a token of hers on the body of a murder victim. She had been skinned alive, while restrained and possibly drugged. Her belongs were missing, and her residence emptied. This all happened two and a half months ago, just before the armistice was signed. The skinning madman had been active for the last half year, but she was the last victim. (*Monks in the area remember the little togashi monk, fondly and are unaware she was even dead. They assumed she moved on with her hunt. She was often see in the company of her budoka Din. The monks are less happy about Din. After she disappeared he felt abandoned, and became violent. He was arrested several times for violence. He may be in confinement now actually.*) Din is indeed in jail, awaiting his sentencing (Conscription upon a mantis warship). He believes his master left him. That's what her monk friend Mutsuma told him. When Din told Mutsuma she wouldn't do that he gave him his tonfa and kicked him through a wall. Mutsuma was a darkly tanned man with Ise Zumi tattoos, although he told Din he was No Ise Zumi. (Description of Mutsuma is very close to Kokujin, lore roll will recall Togashi Mutsuma IS the man who became Kokujin). Din remembers some of the Other Monks with Mutsuma had scorpion accents and seemed higher rank then regular monks. All took direction from Mutsuma. One of them mentioned how he couldn't wait to return to Shutai, to "properly educate the masses now that their masters have returned.
Otomo Youme, Otomo Daimyo
Air 3 Awarness 4 Earth 2 Willpower 4, Water 2, Fire 3 intellegence 4 Void 5
Rank: Otomo Courtier 4
Skills: Calligraphy 3, Courtier (Gossip, Manipulation) 5, Defense 2, Etiquette (Courtesy) 3, Horsemanship 3, Intimidation (Control) 4, Investigation 3, Lore: Heraldry 3, Lore: History 4, Sincerity (Deceit) 3, Temptation 3
Advantages: Social position, Benten's Blessing, Wealth, Allies
Disadvantages: Overconfident, Cruel, Dark Fate
Air 3 Awarness 4 Earth 2 Willpower 4, Water 2, Fire 3 intellegence 4 Void 5
Rank: Otomo Courtier 4
Skills: Calligraphy 3, Courtier (Gossip, Manipulation) 5, Defense 2, Etiquette (Courtesy) 3, Horsemanship 3, Intimidation (Control) 4, Investigation 3, Lore: Heraldry 3, Lore: History 4, Sincerity (Deceit) 3, Temptation 3
Advantages: Social position, Benten's Blessing, Wealth, Allies
Disadvantages: Overconfident, Cruel, Dark Fate
Notable NPC's at this time, Chosen due to possibility of coming into (or remaining in) contact with the Party.
HIDA O-USHI, CRAB CLAN CHAMPION
AIR: 4 EARTH: 5 FIRE: 5 WATER: 4 STRENGTH: 6 VOID: 5
Honor: 4.3 Status: 8.0 Glory: 8.0
School/Rank: Hida Bushi 5
Skills: Lore (Shadowlands) 6, Lore (Crab Clan) 5, Athletics 5, Battle (Mass Combat, Skirmish) 4, Defense 5, Hunting 3, Iaijutsu 4, Jiujutsu 4, Heavy Weapons (Dai-Tsuchi) 6, Kenjutsu 4, Intimidation 6.
Advantages: Blood of Osano-Wo, Crab Hands, Great Destiny, Inheritance (Chikara and the Sword of the Hantei), Social Position (Clan Champion), Strength of the Earth.
Disadvantages: Brash, Failure of Bushido (Courtesy), Bad Reputation (Bully) Overconfident
HIDA ROHITEKI, ADVISER TO THE CRAB CHAMPION
AIR: 3 EARTH: 5 FIRE: 4 WATER; 3 VOID: 3
Honor: 3.5 Status: 6.2 Glory: 6
School/Rank: Kuni 4
Skills: Calligraphy (Crab cipher) 2, Defense 4, Lore: Shadowlands 5 Lore: theology 3, Spell craft 5, kenjutsu 2, Athletics (running) 3, Stealth (ambush) 4, Investigation (notice) 2, Etiquette 3, Heavy weapons 4, Lore: Maho 4
Advantages: Great Destiny, Forbidden Knowledge: Maho, Allies (most party members)
Disadvantages: Sworn Enemy (Daidoji Iruko)
DOJI KUWANAN
Earth: 5 Water: 6 Fire: 4 Agility: 5 Air: 3 Reflexes: 5 Void: 4
School/Rank: Daidoji Bodyguard 5, Hida Bushi 1, Lion Bushi 1
Glory: 8.7 Status: 8.4 Honor: 7.6
Advantages: Clear Thinker, Different School: Lion Bushi, Multiple Schools: Crane & Crab, Kakita Blade (Omeka)
Disadvantages: Driven, Lost Love (Isawa Nosuriko), Sworn Enemy (Matsu Hiroru)
Skills: Armorer 4, Athletics 4, Battle 8 (Mass Combat), Courtier 5, Defense 7, Etiquette 5, Horsemanship 4, Iaijutsu 5, Jiujutsu 4, Kenjutsu 7, Kyujutsu 4, Lore (Crab Clan) 3, Lore (Lion Clan) 5, Lore (Shadowlands) 2, Oratory 2, Shintao 3, Sincerity 3, Subojutsu 4, Weaponsmith 3, Yarijutsu 4
Kata: One Leg Stance, Striking as Water, Striking as Fire
DAIDOJI UJI
Earth: 5 Water: 4 Strength: 5 Fire: 3 Agility: 5 Air: 6 Void: 4
School/Rank: Daidoji Bodyguard 5, Daidoji Harrier 1
Dojo: Mountain's Shadow Dojo
Glory: 7.6 Status: 7.9 Honor: 4.2
Advantages: Ancestor (Daidoji Yurei), Multiple Schools, Quick Healer, Way of the Land
Disadvantages: Fascination (Gaijin)
Skills: Archery 4, Appraisal 3, Battle 8, Commerce 4, Defense 6, Etiquette 2, Explosives 2, Hunting 2, Iaijutsu 4, Kenjutsu 6, Lore (Gaijin Culture) 2, Lore (Gaijin Warfare) 4, "Sai-bore" Technique (gaijin weapon) 2, Shintao 3
DAIDOJI IRUKO, BEARER OF CHUKANDOMO
AIR: 3 REFLEXES 4 EARTH: 4 FIRE: 4 WATER: 4 VOID: 4
Honor: 6.5 Status: 5.0 Glory: 7.2
School/Rank: Daidoji Iron Warrior 3
Skills: Animal Handling (Falcons) 3, Athletics 2, Battle 5, Commerce 1, Defense 5, Etiquette 2, Hunting (Falconry) 3, Iaijutsu 5, Investigation (Notice) 5, Kenjutsu (Katana) 6, Kyujutsu 5, Sincerity 3, Spears 4, Lore: Shadowlands 2, Lore: Maho: 1, Sailing 2
Advantages: Great Destiny, Social Position (Heir to Daidoji Family Daimyo), Strength of the Earth, Crafty, Daredevil, Heart of Vengeance (Matsu, Crab), Way of the Land (Daidoji provinces), Allies (Most party members)
Disadvantages: Benten's Curse, Disturbing Countenance
AKODO KENTARO, AKODO FAMILY DAIMYO (Formerly Nate's Char)
AIR: 3 EARTH: 3 FIRE: 4 WATER: 3 VOID: 3
Honor: 9.7 Status: 7.0 Glory: 8.6
School/Rank: Akodo 3/ Emerald Magistrate 1 (replaces Akodo Rank 4)
Skills: Battle 5 (Mass Combat) , Defense 3, Kenjutsu 5 (Katana), Kyujutsu 2, Lore: history 2, Sincerity: 2, Etiquette 3, Investigation 3, Athletics 2, Horsemanship 1, Hunting 3, Iaijutsu 3, Jujutsu 3, Intimidation 1, Stealth 2, Courtier 3, Lore: Law 3, Lore: Bushido 2, Calligraphy 1, Craft: Woodworking 1, Perform: Oratory 1, Lore: Shadowlands 1, Lore: Maho 1
Advantages: Strength of the Earth, Virtuous, Sacred Weapon, Allies (Ikoma Ushima, Kitsu Motso, Dragon clan, Crab Clan)
Disadvantages: Lechery, Driven (Restore the Akodo to prior power), Bad Reputation (Heiman Lover)
TOKU, AKODO VASSAL FAMILY DAIMYO
AIR: 3 REFLEXES 4 EARTH: 3 FIRE: 4 WATER: 3 STREGTH 4 VOID: 4 WILLPOWER: 4
Honor: 5.2 Status: 6.0 Glory: 6.1
School/Rank: Toku Bushi 4
Skills: Athletics 3, Animal Handling 3, Artisan: Poetry 1, Battle 4 (Mass Combat), Craft: Farming 2, Defense 4, Etiquette 2, Horsemanship 2, Hunting 4, Investigation (Search) 3, Iaijutsu 3, Kenjutsu (Katana) 5, Kyujutsu 2, Lore: History 2, Lore: Bushido 5, Lore: Theology 2, Spears (Yari) 3
Advantages: Great Destiny, Social Position (Vassal Family Daimyo, Luck (9), Allies (Akodo Kentaro, Ikoma Tsunarai)
Disadvantages: Bad Reputation (Former Heimin), Idealistic
YORITOMO, SON OF STORMS, MANTIS CLAN CHAMPION
AIR: 3 EARTH: 5 FIRE: 4 WATER: 4 VOID: 4 REFLEXES: 4 AGILITY: 5 STRENGTH: 6
Honor: 5.0 Status: 8.3 Glory: 9.5
School/Rank: Yoritomo Bushi 5,
Skills: Athletics 5, Battle (Mass Battle) 6, Commerce 4, Defense 6, Etiquette 1, Jiujutsu 5, Intimidation (Bullying) 7, Investigation 3, Kenjutsu 5, Knives (Kama) 9, Lore: History 2, Lore: Theology 4, Sailing 7 Kata: Son of Storms
Advantages: Great Destiny, Quick, Strength of the Earth
Disadvantages: Bad Reputation (Mercenary), Brash, Insensitive
KITSUNE RYOSEI, LADY OF THE FOX
AIR: 3 EARTH: 4 FIRE: 3 WATER: 3 VOID: 3 AWARENESS: 5 INTELLIGENCE: 4 PERCEPTION: 4
Honor: 6.4 Status: 6.6 Glory: 4.2
School/Rank: Kitsune Shugenja 3
Skills: Animal Handling 2, Athletics 3, Calligraphy 2, Courtier 2, Defense 3, Hunting (Survival, Tracking) 4, Lore: Theology 4, Medicine (Herbalism) 4, Meditation 2, Polearms 4, Spears 2, Spell craft 3
Advantages: Friend of the Brotherhood, Inari's Blessing, Paragon of Courage, Crafty
Disadvantages: Dark Fate, Driven (destroy the Walking Horror of Fu Leng), Bitter Betrothal (Yoritomo Hogasha)
BAYUSHI ARAMORO, CHAMPION OF THE SCORPION
AIR: 4 EARTH: 4 FIRE: 4 WATER: 3 VOID: 5 REFLEXES: 6 STAMINA: 5 AGILITY: 5 STRENGHT: 4
Honor: 3.8 Status: 8.0 Glory: 5.3 Shadowtaint: 1.3
School/Rank: Shosuro Infiltrator 4/Bayushi Saboteur 3
Skills: Acting 3, Athletics 6, Chain Weapons 5, Courtier 3, Defense 6, Iaijutsu (Assessment, Focus) 5, Investigation 4, Intimidation 5, Jiujutsu 6, Kenjutsu (Ninja-to) 6, Knives 5, Lore: Heraldry 4, Lore: Scorpion Clan 3, Lore: Underworld 4, Medicine 3, Meditation 3, Ninjutsu 7, Poison 6, Sincerity 3, Sleight of Hand 5, Stealth (Sneaking) 9, Temptation 2
Advantages: Shadowbrand (1), Crafty, Social Position (Clan Champion), Quick
Disadvantages: Lost Love (Kachiko)
BAYUSHI TANGEN
Earth: 3 Water: 5 Fire: 4 Air: 4 Void: 3
School/Rank: Bayushi Bushi 3, Bitter Lies Swordsman
Glory: 3.6 Status: 4.2 Honor: 2.1
Advantages: Luck (9 Points), Daredevil
Disadvantages: Brash, Gullible
Skills: Acting 2, Archery 4, Athletics 4, Battle 3, Defense 3, Iaijutsu 4, Kenjutsu 6, Poison 3, Sincerity 4, Shintao 3, Sincerity 2, Stealth 3
BAYUSHI YOJIRO, "THE HONEST SCORPION"
AIR: 5 EARTH: 3 FIRE: 3 WATER: 3 VOID: 4 AGILITY: 4
Honor: 6.5 Status: 5.5 Glory: 7.0
School/Rank: Bayushi Courtier 5
Skills: Calligraphy (Cipher) 3, Courtier (Rhetoric) 4, Defense 4, Etiquette (Conversation, Courtesy) 7, Games: Go 3, Games: Shogi 5, Iaijutsu (Focus) 4, Investigation 6, Kenjutsu (Katana, Wakizashi) 5, Lore: Heraldry 5, Lore: Law 6, Sincerity (Honesty) 7, Tea Ceremony 3
Advantages: Allies (many, especially Lion), Blackmail (many), Voice, Clear Mind
Disadvantages: Bad Reputation: Junshin, Soft-Hearted, Unlucky (1 Rank)
OTOMO BANU, IMPERIAL CLAIMATE
AIR: 2 EARTH: 2 FIRE: 2 WATER: 2 VOID: 3 AWARNESS: 4 WILLPOWER 5 INTELLEGENCE: 4 PERCEPTION: 4
Honor: 3.6 Status: 6.0 Glory: 4.2
School/Rank: Otomo Courtier 4
Skills: Calligraphy 3, Courtier (Gossip, Manipulation) 7, Defense 2, Etiquette (Courtesy) 5, Horsemanship 3, Intimidation (Control) 6, Investigation 3, Lore: Heraldry 3, Lore: History 4, Lore: Theater 4, Sincerity (Deceit) 5, Temptation 3
Advantages: Allies (many), Social Position (claimant to the Throne), Wary, Precise Memory, Higher Purpose (Become Emperor)
Disadvantages: Cruel, Driven (to become Emperor)
KOKUJIN
Earth: 4 Water: 4 Fire: 4 Air: 2 Reflexes: 6 Void: 6
School/Rank: Togashi Ise Zumi 3
Glory: -6.3 Status: 0 Honor: 0.4
Advantages: Combat Reflexes, Daredevil, Great Destiny, Hands of Stone, Kaze-do
Disadvantages: Ascetic, Bad Reputation, Dark Fate, Enlightened Madness (6), Fascination (Fu Leng's Name), Insensitive
Skills: Astrology 3, Kaze-do 8, Lore (Shadowlands) 5, Meditation 6, Nazodo 3, Shintao 3, Stealth 5, Tattooing 6, Theology 2, Torture 5, Sincerity 6
Shadowlands Powers: Child of Darkness, Blood Domination, Book of Souls
Taint Symptoms: Darkened skin and tattoos. Kokujin is also prone to outbursts of maniacal laughter and shouting, but it is unknown if this is the fault of his taint or his natural madness.
Tattoos: Chameleon, Cloud, Crescent Moon, Spider, WhiteMask
Kiho: Ai Uchi, Cleansing Spirit, Self/No Selfzd4
TATTOOED MINIONS
Earth 3, Water 3, Fire 3, Air 2 Reflexes 4, Void 4
School/Rank: As before, Plus Ise zumi 1 (Variety of Tattoos)
Advantages: Hands of Stone, Combat Reflexes, Daredevil
Disadvantae: Enlightened Madness, Brash, Overconfident, CONTROLLED
SkillsL Jiujutsu 4, stealth 3, Shintao 3, Theology 3, Torture 3, Sincerity 2
Kiho: Variety of Kiho
New Techniques:
Seijuro's Way (renamed Kenburo's Way) bushi]
Technique Rank: 4 Replaces: Any bushi at Rank 4 Requirements: Intimidation 5, Iaijutsu 5. Must be a student of Matsu Seijuro (the golden Crane).
Technique: The Butchers Gaze
During an iaijutsu duel, before Assessment rolls are made, you may spend a Void Point to take a Free Action and make a Contested Intimidation/Willpower roll against your opponent. (This is considered a Fear effect for the purpose of abilities and mechanics that resist Fear.) If you win the Contested Roll, your opponent's dice do not explode on his Assessment and Focus rolls for this duel.
- Location
- Connecticut
- Pronouns
- He/Him
Alright. Since there are only 6 hours left -
@Deadly Snark , @Snow , @Scia , this means you -
Let's discuss a few of the important people in the campaign world that aren't Clan Champions.
OTHER IMPORTANT PERSONAGES
TOTURI NASERU, EMPEROR TOTURI III
Toturi Naseru is the youngest son of Toturi I, and is a figure distrusted by many in the Empire. Naseru was personally trained by the reviled Steel Chrysanthemum as a child, and was somehow involved with that figure's death, though none appear willing to say how. When his father died, rather than supporting his sister Tsudao in her claim to the throne, Naseru set up a second Imperial Throne in Ryoko Owari and 'ruled' from there, and was rumored to send shadowy agents out into the Empire to assassinate political rivals, paid for with money from opium. However, in the climactic battle against the armies of Daigotsu, it was Naseru who turned the day with a few well-chosen words, manipulating Fu Leng himself into losing faith in his most trusted lieutenant.
Since then, Naseru has ruled over an Empire often divided and fractured. Though he has attempted to make peace as best he can, there are many who think poorly of his methods and whisper that another of his siblings should have taken the Imperial Throne.
YASUKI HACHI, EMERALD CHAMPION
Yasuki Hachi, born Daidoji Hachi, is a Champion cast in the mold of the Emperor who he serves. In the Emerald Championship, his two greatest rivals incapacitated one another, leaving him unopposed going into the final round - a technical victory that did little to increase people's confidence in him. Confidence in him was in no way strengthened when a purportedly lost document declared him next in line to lead the Yasuki family despite his status as a Crane, kicking off the Second Crab-Crane Yasuki war. For his part, Yasuki Hachi seems more of a hapless pawn in Imperial schemes than an actual villain; he swore joint loyalty between Crab and Crane in an attempt to broker a peace between those two Clans, and has otherwise seemingly done his duties with little to reproach.
Hachi is a just man - yet that itself has caused him problems. He deliberately dueled clumsily to lose his daimyoship of the Yasuki to Akodo Kaneka, and often departs from Toshi Ranbo for months at a time to lead the Emerald Magistrates in pursuit of far-flung criminals and threats to the throne... leaving the Emerald Guardsmen nominally leaderless. As the Rain of Blood fell, Hachi was investigating piracy disputes and the smuggling of gaijin goods between the Sparrow and the Mantis.
KANEKA, SHOGUN
Kaneka is heralded to be one of the greatest warriors and duelists of the age, the firstborn son by Toturi of a geisha, shepherded to safety as an infant by the Water Dragon itself. A belligerent, ambitious man, Kaneka has been a polarizing figure in politics for the last decade, becoming first a member of the Akodo, then Shogun, then the leader of the Yasuki (bringing its loyalty wholly back to the Crab after the split that Yasuki Hachi attempted), and finally joining his mother's family in the Phoenix after his brother took the throne and ordered Kaneka to cut ties with his old allies in exchange for confirming his Kaneka's appointment as Shogun.
Despite having cut official ties with them, however, they still supported him, and Kaneka rules the armies of the Empire unquestioned. Following Kaneka are not only his personal troops but also the Emerald Guardsmen, who would have otherwise been leaderless given the absence of Yasuki Hachi. After the Rain of Blood, Kaneka has been ordered to march to the Kaiu Wall, to defend the Empire against the Shadowlands assault that is certain to come.
ISAWA SEZARU, VOICE OF THE EMPEROR
The other surviving child of Toturi, Sezaru is a powerful ishiken, perhaps the strongest since his mother, the Oracle of the Void. Sezaru contested for the throne during the Four Winds era, but only at the insistence of another, seeking support from other clans by nourishing their crops and defeating bandit menaces. When Naseru took the throne, Sezaru gratefully abdicated all responsibility for it, and joined his mother's family among the Isawa. During the Rain Of Blood, Sezaru's magics protected the Imperial palace from the taint. He has currently returned to the Phoenix, hoping to find some way to counter Iuchiban's assault.
ASAHINA SEKAWA, JADE CHAMPION
The very day that Asahina Sekawa took up the mantle of the Jade Champion was the day the he lost his sister and uncle to the attack of an Oni assassin sent by Daigotsu. He became an utterly implacable foe of the Shadowlands, willing to do whatever was necessary to ensure its defeat. Among the many powerful artifacts that he uncovered were Tadaka's Children, a legion of animate clay golems with diamond-tipped spears built by Isawa Tadaka before the Second Day of Thunder, and he led them in battle against the armies of Daigotsu to give the Four Winds time to confront Daigotsu directly. In the following years, he has taken to studying the Taint with full permission of the Emperor, in the hopes that he might find a way to defeat it.
@Deadly Snark , @Snow , @Scia , this means you -
Let's discuss a few of the important people in the campaign world that aren't Clan Champions.
OTHER IMPORTANT PERSONAGES
TOTURI NASERU, EMPEROR TOTURI III
Toturi Naseru is the youngest son of Toturi I, and is a figure distrusted by many in the Empire. Naseru was personally trained by the reviled Steel Chrysanthemum as a child, and was somehow involved with that figure's death, though none appear willing to say how. When his father died, rather than supporting his sister Tsudao in her claim to the throne, Naseru set up a second Imperial Throne in Ryoko Owari and 'ruled' from there, and was rumored to send shadowy agents out into the Empire to assassinate political rivals, paid for with money from opium. However, in the climactic battle against the armies of Daigotsu, it was Naseru who turned the day with a few well-chosen words, manipulating Fu Leng himself into losing faith in his most trusted lieutenant.
Since then, Naseru has ruled over an Empire often divided and fractured. Though he has attempted to make peace as best he can, there are many who think poorly of his methods and whisper that another of his siblings should have taken the Imperial Throne.
YASUKI HACHI, EMERALD CHAMPION
Yasuki Hachi, born Daidoji Hachi, is a Champion cast in the mold of the Emperor who he serves. In the Emerald Championship, his two greatest rivals incapacitated one another, leaving him unopposed going into the final round - a technical victory that did little to increase people's confidence in him. Confidence in him was in no way strengthened when a purportedly lost document declared him next in line to lead the Yasuki family despite his status as a Crane, kicking off the Second Crab-Crane Yasuki war. For his part, Yasuki Hachi seems more of a hapless pawn in Imperial schemes than an actual villain; he swore joint loyalty between Crab and Crane in an attempt to broker a peace between those two Clans, and has otherwise seemingly done his duties with little to reproach.
Hachi is a just man - yet that itself has caused him problems. He deliberately dueled clumsily to lose his daimyoship of the Yasuki to Akodo Kaneka, and often departs from Toshi Ranbo for months at a time to lead the Emerald Magistrates in pursuit of far-flung criminals and threats to the throne... leaving the Emerald Guardsmen nominally leaderless. As the Rain of Blood fell, Hachi was investigating piracy disputes and the smuggling of gaijin goods between the Sparrow and the Mantis.
KANEKA, SHOGUN
Kaneka is heralded to be one of the greatest warriors and duelists of the age, the firstborn son by Toturi of a geisha, shepherded to safety as an infant by the Water Dragon itself. A belligerent, ambitious man, Kaneka has been a polarizing figure in politics for the last decade, becoming first a member of the Akodo, then Shogun, then the leader of the Yasuki (bringing its loyalty wholly back to the Crab after the split that Yasuki Hachi attempted), and finally joining his mother's family in the Phoenix after his brother took the throne and ordered Kaneka to cut ties with his old allies in exchange for confirming his Kaneka's appointment as Shogun.
Despite having cut official ties with them, however, they still supported him, and Kaneka rules the armies of the Empire unquestioned. Following Kaneka are not only his personal troops but also the Emerald Guardsmen, who would have otherwise been leaderless given the absence of Yasuki Hachi. After the Rain of Blood, Kaneka has been ordered to march to the Kaiu Wall, to defend the Empire against the Shadowlands assault that is certain to come.
ISAWA SEZARU, VOICE OF THE EMPEROR
The other surviving child of Toturi, Sezaru is a powerful ishiken, perhaps the strongest since his mother, the Oracle of the Void. Sezaru contested for the throne during the Four Winds era, but only at the insistence of another, seeking support from other clans by nourishing their crops and defeating bandit menaces. When Naseru took the throne, Sezaru gratefully abdicated all responsibility for it, and joined his mother's family among the Isawa. During the Rain Of Blood, Sezaru's magics protected the Imperial palace from the taint. He has currently returned to the Phoenix, hoping to find some way to counter Iuchiban's assault.
ASAHINA SEKAWA, JADE CHAMPION
The very day that Asahina Sekawa took up the mantle of the Jade Champion was the day the he lost his sister and uncle to the attack of an Oni assassin sent by Daigotsu. He became an utterly implacable foe of the Shadowlands, willing to do whatever was necessary to ensure its defeat. Among the many powerful artifacts that he uncovered were Tadaka's Children, a legion of animate clay golems with diamond-tipped spears built by Isawa Tadaka before the Second Day of Thunder, and he led them in battle against the armies of Daigotsu to give the Four Winds time to confront Daigotsu directly. In the following years, he has taken to studying the Taint with full permission of the Emperor, in the hopes that he might find a way to defeat it.
Okay, time for backstory post. This isn't quite done. I'd intended to include Tamotsu returning home and a 'Where He Was On The Day It Rained Blood' scene, but it proved too time-consuming and I was tied up a little too much with RL.
It's past 1 am where I am now, so I'm being forced to call it quits. Also, 4,520 words has got to be some kind of limit for a game I'm not even in yet.
It's past 1 am where I am now, so I'm being forced to call it quits. Also, 4,520 words has got to be some kind of limit for a game I'm not even in yet.
Breathe in. Breathe out.
Your training is complete. Sodona-sensei believed you're ready for this. When has he ever been wrong?
The teenaged boy sat kneeling on the floor in a seiza, eyes closed. He was dressed in a formal kimono of red and yellow, with the Phoenix clan and Shiba family mōn each marked upon it.
A small number of other teens sat off to his side, similarly dressed, but he ignored them so completely they might as well not have existed. Seated as he was, his eyes closed and chest rising and falling gently in an easy rhythm, he seemed deep in meditation.
He wasn't actually meditating, of course. Meditation precluded racing thoughts and strong emotions. While he might have seemed relaxed to many on the surface, a perceptive observer would notice the subtle clenching of the fists on his thighs, or the faintest furrow of his brow.
This is nothing. A formality. You finished with this stage of your training weeks ago, if not months. You're just going through the motions for it to be recognized.
You're ready.
There was the sound of footsteps approaching, and then the sliding sound of a door opening.
"Shiba Saburo!" A voice called.
Saburo opened his eyes.
The sensei at the door stepped aside and held out his arm, indicating that he was free to enter the Dojo.
Saburo rose to his feet and approached, passing through the doorway and past the junior instructor who shut the door behind him.
Several paces before him sat a row of teachers and witnesses. Seated in the middle, with a bare cushion placed opposite him, was Shiba Tadashi, Master Sensei of the Sacred Heart Dojo. Beside him sat Shiba Yoshinori, one of the advisors of the Clan Champion, in his capacity as the representative of the family Daimyo.
Both men fixed Saburo with a steely gaze as he approached, and his nerves were so great that he almost faltered and missed a step before breathing out and moving forward more smoothly.
To each side further down the line of judges and guests, Saburo could see the various teachers of the Dojo as well as close family members of most of the students undergoing their Gempukku today. To the far right, he even briefly spied his own mother and father before returning his attention to the figures before him.
Sinking onto his knees on the cushion, Saburo proceeded to bow formally to the two men opposite him. They both inclined themselves slightly in return.
"Shiba Saburo," Tadashi-sensei began "You are called here today to demonstrate your understanding of and commitment to the teachings and principles of the Sacred Heart Dojo and the Phoenix clan of Rokugan. Are you ready to begin?"
The words were themselves were solemn, but the tone was slightly rehearsed; a brief reminder that for all the importance this moment held for him, Saburo was merely one in a line of Shiba students undergoing their Gempukku ceremonies. The Master's tone no doubt felt rehearsed because he'd already worked his way through several other students before him.
"Hai, sensei" Saburo said, much more calmly than he felt.
"As a student of the Sacred Heart, you have been taught the various skills we judge you need to serve your clan as a Bushi," Tadashi-sensei said formally "But as a warrior of the Phoenix clan, you are furthermore expected to display wisdom and good judgment equal to your skills at war."
Saburo held himself still. His first instinct was to nod his head at the master's words to show that he understood, but in such a formal situation excessive or very expressive movement would most likely be considered somewhat uncouth.
"Hai, sensei" He said clearly, when there came an appropriate lull in the conversation that he judged himself expected to fill.
"How then do you yourself intend to use those skills in the arts of war in order to serve the best interests of the Phoenix?" The master asked.
There was a brief moment of silence in which Saburo gathered his thoughts. As he considered the question, he saw Sodona Kojiro lean forward slightly from his place in the lineup, a glimmer of interest showing through his on.
"In order to best serve the interests of the Phoenix clan, Master," Saburo said slowly "I would endeavor to make as little use of the Bugei arts as I could possibly manage".
Neither of the more senior Phoenix Samurai opposite him showed any overt reaction or surprise to that, but at the same time Saburo could swear he felt something in the air. As if suddenly the other men had started paying closer attention.
"Oh?" Tadashi-sensei prompted.
"The principles of our clan, and the Tao of Shinsei, teach us that violence is the last resort of any true Phoenix. Despite being willing to use those skills in the defence of my clan if I must, I would always first try to pursue a peaceful solution to my clan's problems." Saburo said.
"And if such a solution cannot be found?" Tadashi asked.
Saburo bowed his head deferentially "If I cannot find one master, or if the circumstances do not allow for me to attempt to do so, then I would not hesitate to protect my clan through the skills I learned in this Dojo".
Tadashi stared thoughtfully at him for a moment, and then turned to meet the eyes of Yoshinori. Something seemed to pass between them for a moment, and then they turned back to face the young Bushi.
"Moving on, we shall address your understanding of the tenets of both Bushido and Shintao, and how they relate to and interact with each other. For instance, which principles of each, if any, do you find incompatible…"
The Gempukku proceeded in a similar fashion for some time afterwards. Saburo was questioned deeply on his understanding of almost every conceivable aspect of life as a Bushi, and was at times requested to make speeches explaining and defending various points on almost every topic imaginable.
Eventually however, the Master-sensei pronounced himself satisfied, and invited Saburo to make his vow of loyalty to the senior official, representing the Clan Champion. He did so, formally shared a brief drink of sake with the man, was presented with his Daisho, requested permission to take a Wandering-year, had it granted and announced his new choice of name to the general approval of the assembled guests.
It was fortunate that when Shiba Tamotsu emerged from the hall to meet with his parents, he did so privately, as his self-control was not so great as to keep the slight smile from his face.
He bowed slightly to his mother and father, and they bowed in return as equals, because he was a man now. Then his father smiled broadly and offered his congratulations, and his mother beamed at him, because they were alone, and he was also their son.
They soon returned to the family manor, where Tamotsu mingled and drank with siblings, cousins, aunts and uncles who each took turns to offer him their congratulations and then their advice; which families to start looking for a bride from now that he was his own man, how to best approach his superiors in order to request a particular assignment, which Fortunes in particular he should thank for passing his Gempukku and which he should pray to ensure a prosperous life going forward.
Eventually, when one of his cousins started telling him where he should go and what sights he should see in his journey throughout Rokugan, Tamotsu replied that he'd already made plans of his own, and he couldn't possibly change them for anything.
The gathering ended soon enough after that, and Tamotsu retired shortly after. When he woke early the next morning, he quickly finished packing, said his farewells to friends and family, and left Shiro Shiba heading north.
Kyuden Isawa was commonly known to be the Empire's greatest repository of magical lore. The seat of the Isawa family, the castle had been burned down in 1128 by the Tainted Shugenja Isawa Tsuke, before being rebuilt at great expense on the behalf of the Phoenix clan in the following decades.
It was a sign of the clan's ingenuity and dedication that by 1164, the castle and library both were restored almost to their full glory, barring the occasional unique text for which no other copy had been made or found.
Yet while the castle and library had been almost fully restored, the clan and its caretaker family were more conscious than ever of the value and security of their treasure trove of knowledge. Even before the library had been devastated, access to the magical texts had been tightly controlled. Now? It was almost beyond belief.
"I'm sorry, but it's really out of my hands" Isawa Kasumi apologized. She appeared sincere, which took some of the sting out of it, but it was still difficult to hear nonetheless.
The Shugenja leaned over, gracefully pouring tea for Tamotsu. The two were seated easily upon cushions with cups beside them; the Shiba warrior having been directed to a comfortable waiting room upon attempting to first gain access to the library. The Isawa custodian had appeared before him soon enough, graciously enough listening to his request before ultimately telling him that it simply wasn't possible.
"Generally speaking, only very prominent scholars and Shugenja of the clan are able to simply walk right into the archives," She continued, the tea poured, "The rest require the chop of someone very influential; a provincial governor or abbot of a temple would be considered the very minimum required to vouch for you".
Tamotsu nodded, crestfallen but trying not to show it. He took a sip of his tea to try to conceal his disappointment.
"I hadn't expected I'd need anything of the kind," He admitted.
"Understandable enough" Kasumi commiserated, "As a clan, we Phoenix are generally quite quick to point to our storehouses of learning, and call ourselves the keepers of knowledge, but not all members of the clan share that knowledge as freely as others".
She looked rueful for a moment, having criticized her own family as openly as socially possible.
"Of course, on the other hand, the knowledge we keep here is often of vital strategic importance to the clan," She continued, perhaps to make amends to herself for the brief lapse "I would hardly want our spellcraft widely circulating the Empire and empowering those less respectful of the power such techniques hold. Imagine the Mantis, if they managed to get their hands on any of the spells contained in our archives."
She shuddered for a moment, in what Tamotsu judged to be a completely understandable concern. Rokugan's clan wars were bloody enough. A clan such as the Mantis with the power of the Isawa? Boundless ambition, backed by immense power and a complete lack of respect for it?
Terrifying.
"I appreciate the need to keep such knowledge out of the hands of those who have not proven their trustworthiness" Tamotsu said with a nod "Still, it's a disappointment. I had been planning to come here for many years, when I finally received the opportunity."
At that, Kasumi looked at the Shiba Bushi with an inscrutable expression "Oh? Why was it exactly, that you came here, if you don't mind my asking?"
"It was because of my great-grandfather, Shiba Kiyoshi," Tamotsu replied "He was a powerful Fire Shugenja, who-"
"Who disappeared and took all of his research with him. Yes, I remember." Kasumi interrupted. She looked apologetic "I think I understand now. You're seeking to solve an old family mystery?"
"Yes. I'm surprised you were so quick to remember it." Tamotsu said, answering honestly.
Kasumi chuckled.
"Kiyoshi had a brilliant mind," She said with a smile "One of the best we've produced in generations. He'd have become the Master of Fire, if he hadn't vanished so young. I'm surprised you thought I wouldn't know of him."
"Well, his legacy continues to affect my family, one way or another," Tamotsu said "Given that we don't know what became of him, we worry over what it means. Is Kiyoshi's soul trapped somewhere, needing to be freed before continuing on to Meido? Did Kiyoshi make himself immortal, and if so, where has he gone and why? And is whatever happened to him likely to happen to others like…"
Tamotsu trailed off mid-sentence.
Kasumi watched him shrewdly.
"Others, like you?" She asked, watching his face carefully.
Tamotsu frowned, uneasily.
"I'm not a Shugenja," He said at last, in what was a technically honest statement. He'd never been trained as one.
"No," Kasumi agreed "But you could have been".
Tamotsu opened his mouth, and then closed it.
"We keep careful records of everyone in the clan who shows the talent" Kasumi explained at his obvious confusion "We knew you had the potential to become a Shugenja, one who leaned strongly towards the same element as your ancestor, within hours of your birth."
She shrugged, as to say it was no secret.
"Yours was a memorable case, because although the clan almost invariably gives up every child with the talent to the Temples to study the magical arts, you were deemed a possible risk, due to the mystery of Kiyoshi's fate".
"I hadn't known that so many people knew" Tamotsu said at last.
"Most don't," the Isawa replied "But I have a very good memory".
"Well, regardless, it seems that I'm out of luck" Tamotsu said "I had intended to gain entry and research what I could of Kiyoshi's studies in hope of solving the riddle he left us, but I don't have the credentials I'd need".
Kasumi nodded "I know you might be dispirited, but it's for the best. Kiyoshi was a brilliant man, exploring advanced fields of magic that few of his peers could hope to keep up with. Finding out what happened to him would be a difficult enough task for a Shugenja, but for a Bushi…"
She trailed off, the implication clear. While the Phoenix cultivated intellectualism in their warriors, there was still a large gulf between the depth of knowledge that a Bushi and a scholar would be expected to hold. And when the field of knowledge in question was spellcraft that only made the task more difficult.
"I'm sorry to take up so much of your time" Tamotsu apologized, rising to his feet.
"It's no trouble," Kasumi assured him courteously "For my part, I'm sorry we couldn't help you".
The two bowed to each other, and the young Shiba warrior turned to open the door.
"One last word of advice, if I might, Tamotsu-san?" The librarian called from behind him.
He turned to face her.
"Kiyoshi's disappearance might seem quite troubling, but I'd urge you to put it out of your mind" She said seriously "Dwelling on the past for too long can make you miss what's happening in the present. Too many bright young samurai are led astray by such distractions. Promise me you won't become one of them."
Tamotsu bowed again, but he didn't speak. He wouldn't have been able to do so without lying, and he never lied.
He left the room disappointed, but no less determined than he'd entered it.
He still had a year to find answers, and the Isawa Library wasn't the only source of knowledge in the Empire.
Kyuden Asako was itself only several days journey south. It would make a fine start.
Shiba Tamotsu sat on the floor, scrolls laid out all around him, and tried to make sense of what he was seeing.
There was the sound of footsteps approaching the door, and a deep voice called his name questioningly through the Shoji.
"Come in" Tamotsu called back.
The door opened. An older samurai, wearing a gold and brown kimono stamped with the mōn of the most militant clan in the Empire, and that of their family of Historians, stepped into the room followed by a servant bearing a tray.
Tamotsu looked up curiously.
"Good morning, Shiba-san" the Ikoma said courteously "I had hoped you would be agreeable to sharing tea with me, if you can afford to take a short break".
There was only one possible response to that. He was in an Ikoma castle, as an Ikoma guest, at Ikoma sufferance. A refusal would be churlish in the extreme, unless he had good cause.
"Of course, Daisuke-san" Tamotsu said politely, accepting the offered tea from the servant. He could afford to take a break. He wouldn't necessarily wish to do so, but he'd never be so uncouth as to say so to one of his hosts.
They sat opposite a small table, Tamotsu clearing it of scrolls.
"How goes your research, my friend?" Ikoma Daisuke asked, sipping his tea contemplatively.
"Well, thank you" Tamotsu said.
There was a momentary lull as they each considered what to say. Or at least, Tamotsu considered what to say; Daisuke was likely simply enjoying the tea and company.
Ikoma Daisuke was an unusual friend, Tamotsu had to admit. He'd never thought particularly well of the Lion clan for various reasons; they seemed so opposed to all of the principles the Phoenix held dear.
Daisuke seemed decent enough, however. The Lion bard seemed to relish the companionship of a fellow warrior-scholar, even (or perhaps especially) one outside his own clan and family.
That, at least, Tamotsu could understand. If he lived among a horde of warriors as aggressive as the Lion, he'd be glad of outside influence too.
"I have to say, you're a puzzle I haven't encountered often" Daisuke mused.
Tamotsu tilted his head "Oh?"
Daisuke nodded "A young, promising warrior, who sought and received permission from his superiors immediately upon graduating his Gempukku to undergo a Musha Shugyo, who then journeys to the greatest centres of learning in Rokugan to study fields most warriors would find utterly boring. If you were any more eccentric, I'd think you a Dragon, regardless of whose mōn you wore."
Tamotsu didn't bother correcting him that he wasn't on a Musha Shugyo, precisely. The two practices were similar enough that it was an easy mistake, but a Musha Shugyo was distinctly martial in nature, and Shugyosha were often swordsmen who were merely trying to find opponents and make a name for themselves.
Not to say that he thought that training one's swordplay was an unworthy ambition, but Tamotsu had a higher purpose with a more tangible goal. Improving himself would be a welcome side-effect, but it wasn't the achievement he was seeking.
"What makes you think I was such a promising warrior?" He said lightly "Perhaps my instructors were glad to be rid of me?"
Daisuke's lips quirked in an easy smile "That's a possibility, of course, but it makes for a poorer story. Young, intelligent samurai who set off on adventures across the Empire are obliged to be skillful heroes, or else why would anyone want to hear about it?"
Tamotsu shook his head slightly in exasperation, but felt a tugging at the corners of his mouth.
"In all seriousness," Daisuke said contemplatively "You told me when you first came here that you've been looking for something, but you've been quite vague on what that is".
Tamotsu shifted uncomfortably. The Lion's question, unasked but hardly subtle, was slightly more personal than he was accustomed to sharing with someone outside of his clan.
"I'm trying to make sense of something that happened decades ago," Tamotsu said reluctantly "Something important to my family. I'm trying see if I can find any clues or similar incidents buried in the lore in your family's library."
Daisuke nodded slowly "Well, I can't blame you for seeking your answers from the Emperor's chosen historians if the mystery you seek to solve is a historical one. Is there anything I can do to help?"
"No, thank you" Tamotsu said, shaking his head slightly "You've already done so much just by letting me stay here and investigate your library. My problems are not yours; I couldn't allow myself to impose any further."
Daisuke shrugged "We're the Empire's historians. Letting you peruse our writings is no generosity, merely fulfillment of our duty."
Tamotsu nodded "Still, I'm grateful. Too grateful, truthfully, to allow you to help me any more than you already have. My honour couldn't bear it."
"Ahh, well, if it is a matter of honour, then I'll say no more on the subject," Daisuke said with impeccable courtesy "But I'd be obliged to you if you'd be willing to play a game of Gō with me before returning to your research. I've been mad for the game ever since I first learned how to play, but most of my kin are more interested in Shogi."
"I'd be delighted," Tamotsu assured him "Would you prefer to play black or white?"
Daisuke made a face "Is that an honest question, Tamotsu-san? Who would ever choose black over white except out of courtesy for a lesser player? White, please. I need some advantage over a man who spends every waking moment expanding his education."
The afternoon passed in a pleasant haze. Tamotsu won two games and lost a third. He felt content enough that it was almost as if he was back at home playing against his father or brothers.
But when Daisuke took his leave, Tamotsu wasted no time turning back to his research. The diversion had been pleasant, but only for a brief time. He still had a great deal of work to do.
The man known simply as Junichi, once Katai Junichi of the Lion vassal clan, now a mere ronin, barely stirred as his compatriots dropped into the seat beside him. At least until he heard the sound of bowls hitting the wooden surface of the table.
Kenta slid a bowl of Udon over to him, and he began eating reluctantly.
The innkeeper stood behind the counter, wringing his hands but obviously unable to do anything to get them to leave. When Kenta and Isamu had gone up to the counter and demanded food, as well as beds for the night, upon entering the inn, the man had had no other recourse but to agree.
A heimin was required to show absolute obedience to any samurai if they wished to avoid being immediately cut down, and the innkeeper was likely more afraid of them than he would be of any clan samurai.
Their appearance was filthy, and they wore no clan or family mōn upon their clothing. They'd long since parted with their former lords. It was obvious that they were ronin to anyone who laid eyes on them.
And everyone knew ronin were one bad day away from being bandits or mercenaries.
There was the sound of a door opening, and a well-dressed figure, or at least well-dressed compared to them, entered the mostly empty common room. All of the other guests had left shortly after they'd arrived.
It was a young man, dressed in red, bearing the two swords of a Bushi. Junichi, Kenta and Isamu no longer carried the Wakizashi themselves; a second sword was a luxury that they couldn't afford in the face of the always-looming threat of destitution.
Isamu saw the man enter, jerked his head over in his direction with a grin, and stood and walked over to him. Kenta rose and followed obediently, and Junichi sighed and did the same reluctantly.
"Ho! A pleasure to meet you, samurai-san" Isamu said with faux-friendliness "Too few of our kind on the road these days. Where do you come from?"
The young man's eyes passed over their figures, quietly judging, and Junichi felt his embarrassment more acutely than ever. Isamu saw him do the same, and his face twisted for a split-second into an expression much more ugly than the one plastered across his face before reverting to the fake smile.
The Phoenix – Junichi could see now he wore the Phoenix mōn on his clothing – appeared to give the question much more consideration than it merited.
"Kyuden Ikoma, most recently" The Phoenix Bushi said softly "Before that, Nikesake".
Isamu whistled "Pretty cities, those ones. Much too expensive to live in for the three of us."
The Phoenix shrugged, as if disclaiming knowledge of such concerns.
Isamu's face twitched at that.
"Mmm, I'm sure that you don't need to worry about those sorts of things, as well-dressed as you look. But not all of us are so lucky."
Isamu paused, as if something suddenly occurred to him "Y'know, considering that you're so much more well-off than we are, maybe you could spare some money for a few unlucky samurai. It would show some compassion on your part; you'd be doing well by Bushido."
"I need all my money to make it to the Temple of Heavenly Wisdom, and then home," the Phoenix said "So I'm sorry, but no".
"And what if I were to ask again, all humble like" Isamu asked, showing dirty teeth.
"My answer wouldn't change because you happened to ask again," The traveller said.
"And if I were to take it without asking?" Isamu said, the smile gone from his face now.
"I'd kill you," The Phoenix Bushi said softly.
There was silence throughout the inn.
Then Isamu leapt out of his seat, the Tanto he'd drawn underneath the table arcing towards the young man's face.
The Phoenix's sword flashed out impossibly fast, and Isamu's weapon arm and head were removed in the same motion.
Kenta jumped back to gain room, pulling his Katana free of its sheath. The blade was in poor condition, but Junichi knew that Kenta's skills hadn't grown any dull since his time in the army.
"That was my friend, you pampered bastard," Kenta said, spitting to the side angrily.
"I'm sorry," The Phoenix said solemnly "But he chose this fight, not me". Junichi could almost swear he was telling the truth about being sorry. He stood by uncertainly, not sure whether he wanted any part in what was to follow.
"I'm going to kill you, and leave you for the dogs," Kenta ranted, ignoring him "Pretty little Iaijutsu, for pretty little weakling duelists. But this isn't a court duel."
The Phoenix's face went blank, and his blade came up to rest easily before him.
"You should have just given us your money, fool" Kenta said angrily.
Junichi saw the words wash over the Phoenix as if he couldn't even hear them. The man was almost as still as a statue now.
"If you had, you might have escaped with your life!" Kenta finished, lunging forward with his Katana in a blindingly fast thrust.
The Phoenix swordsman stepped to the side and parried, cutting downwards in a return-stroke so fast that it wasn't until it emerged through the opposite side of Kenta's body that Junichi even saw it move.
Kenta's body fell to the ground, torn open. The blood from both of the corpses spilled across the floor, soaking through Junichi's sandals.
The Phoenix samurai met his gaze.
Junichi slowly raised his empty hands "I don't want to fight".
The Phoenix nodded "Neither do I".
Your training is complete. Sodona-sensei believed you're ready for this. When has he ever been wrong?
The teenaged boy sat kneeling on the floor in a seiza, eyes closed. He was dressed in a formal kimono of red and yellow, with the Phoenix clan and Shiba family mōn each marked upon it.
A small number of other teens sat off to his side, similarly dressed, but he ignored them so completely they might as well not have existed. Seated as he was, his eyes closed and chest rising and falling gently in an easy rhythm, he seemed deep in meditation.
He wasn't actually meditating, of course. Meditation precluded racing thoughts and strong emotions. While he might have seemed relaxed to many on the surface, a perceptive observer would notice the subtle clenching of the fists on his thighs, or the faintest furrow of his brow.
This is nothing. A formality. You finished with this stage of your training weeks ago, if not months. You're just going through the motions for it to be recognized.
You're ready.
There was the sound of footsteps approaching, and then the sliding sound of a door opening.
"Shiba Saburo!" A voice called.
Saburo opened his eyes.
The sensei at the door stepped aside and held out his arm, indicating that he was free to enter the Dojo.
Saburo rose to his feet and approached, passing through the doorway and past the junior instructor who shut the door behind him.
Several paces before him sat a row of teachers and witnesses. Seated in the middle, with a bare cushion placed opposite him, was Shiba Tadashi, Master Sensei of the Sacred Heart Dojo. Beside him sat Shiba Yoshinori, one of the advisors of the Clan Champion, in his capacity as the representative of the family Daimyo.
Both men fixed Saburo with a steely gaze as he approached, and his nerves were so great that he almost faltered and missed a step before breathing out and moving forward more smoothly.
To each side further down the line of judges and guests, Saburo could see the various teachers of the Dojo as well as close family members of most of the students undergoing their Gempukku today. To the far right, he even briefly spied his own mother and father before returning his attention to the figures before him.
Sinking onto his knees on the cushion, Saburo proceeded to bow formally to the two men opposite him. They both inclined themselves slightly in return.
"Shiba Saburo," Tadashi-sensei began "You are called here today to demonstrate your understanding of and commitment to the teachings and principles of the Sacred Heart Dojo and the Phoenix clan of Rokugan. Are you ready to begin?"
The words were themselves were solemn, but the tone was slightly rehearsed; a brief reminder that for all the importance this moment held for him, Saburo was merely one in a line of Shiba students undergoing their Gempukku ceremonies. The Master's tone no doubt felt rehearsed because he'd already worked his way through several other students before him.
"Hai, sensei" Saburo said, much more calmly than he felt.
"As a student of the Sacred Heart, you have been taught the various skills we judge you need to serve your clan as a Bushi," Tadashi-sensei said formally "But as a warrior of the Phoenix clan, you are furthermore expected to display wisdom and good judgment equal to your skills at war."
Saburo held himself still. His first instinct was to nod his head at the master's words to show that he understood, but in such a formal situation excessive or very expressive movement would most likely be considered somewhat uncouth.
"Hai, sensei" He said clearly, when there came an appropriate lull in the conversation that he judged himself expected to fill.
"How then do you yourself intend to use those skills in the arts of war in order to serve the best interests of the Phoenix?" The master asked.
There was a brief moment of silence in which Saburo gathered his thoughts. As he considered the question, he saw Sodona Kojiro lean forward slightly from his place in the lineup, a glimmer of interest showing through his on.
"In order to best serve the interests of the Phoenix clan, Master," Saburo said slowly "I would endeavor to make as little use of the Bugei arts as I could possibly manage".
Neither of the more senior Phoenix Samurai opposite him showed any overt reaction or surprise to that, but at the same time Saburo could swear he felt something in the air. As if suddenly the other men had started paying closer attention.
"Oh?" Tadashi-sensei prompted.
"The principles of our clan, and the Tao of Shinsei, teach us that violence is the last resort of any true Phoenix. Despite being willing to use those skills in the defence of my clan if I must, I would always first try to pursue a peaceful solution to my clan's problems." Saburo said.
"And if such a solution cannot be found?" Tadashi asked.
Saburo bowed his head deferentially "If I cannot find one master, or if the circumstances do not allow for me to attempt to do so, then I would not hesitate to protect my clan through the skills I learned in this Dojo".
Tadashi stared thoughtfully at him for a moment, and then turned to meet the eyes of Yoshinori. Something seemed to pass between them for a moment, and then they turned back to face the young Bushi.
"Moving on, we shall address your understanding of the tenets of both Bushido and Shintao, and how they relate to and interact with each other. For instance, which principles of each, if any, do you find incompatible…"
Eventually however, the Master-sensei pronounced himself satisfied, and invited Saburo to make his vow of loyalty to the senior official, representing the Clan Champion. He did so, formally shared a brief drink of sake with the man, was presented with his Daisho, requested permission to take a Wandering-year, had it granted and announced his new choice of name to the general approval of the assembled guests.
It was fortunate that when Shiba Tamotsu emerged from the hall to meet with his parents, he did so privately, as his self-control was not so great as to keep the slight smile from his face.
He bowed slightly to his mother and father, and they bowed in return as equals, because he was a man now. Then his father smiled broadly and offered his congratulations, and his mother beamed at him, because they were alone, and he was also their son.
They soon returned to the family manor, where Tamotsu mingled and drank with siblings, cousins, aunts and uncles who each took turns to offer him their congratulations and then their advice; which families to start looking for a bride from now that he was his own man, how to best approach his superiors in order to request a particular assignment, which Fortunes in particular he should thank for passing his Gempukku and which he should pray to ensure a prosperous life going forward.
Eventually, when one of his cousins started telling him where he should go and what sights he should see in his journey throughout Rokugan, Tamotsu replied that he'd already made plans of his own, and he couldn't possibly change them for anything.
The gathering ended soon enough after that, and Tamotsu retired shortly after. When he woke early the next morning, he quickly finished packing, said his farewells to friends and family, and left Shiro Shiba heading north.
*****
Kyuden Isawa was commonly known to be the Empire's greatest repository of magical lore. The seat of the Isawa family, the castle had been burned down in 1128 by the Tainted Shugenja Isawa Tsuke, before being rebuilt at great expense on the behalf of the Phoenix clan in the following decades.
It was a sign of the clan's ingenuity and dedication that by 1164, the castle and library both were restored almost to their full glory, barring the occasional unique text for which no other copy had been made or found.
Yet while the castle and library had been almost fully restored, the clan and its caretaker family were more conscious than ever of the value and security of their treasure trove of knowledge. Even before the library had been devastated, access to the magical texts had been tightly controlled. Now? It was almost beyond belief.
"I'm sorry, but it's really out of my hands" Isawa Kasumi apologized. She appeared sincere, which took some of the sting out of it, but it was still difficult to hear nonetheless.
The Shugenja leaned over, gracefully pouring tea for Tamotsu. The two were seated easily upon cushions with cups beside them; the Shiba warrior having been directed to a comfortable waiting room upon attempting to first gain access to the library. The Isawa custodian had appeared before him soon enough, graciously enough listening to his request before ultimately telling him that it simply wasn't possible.
"Generally speaking, only very prominent scholars and Shugenja of the clan are able to simply walk right into the archives," She continued, the tea poured, "The rest require the chop of someone very influential; a provincial governor or abbot of a temple would be considered the very minimum required to vouch for you".
Tamotsu nodded, crestfallen but trying not to show it. He took a sip of his tea to try to conceal his disappointment.
"I hadn't expected I'd need anything of the kind," He admitted.
"Understandable enough" Kasumi commiserated, "As a clan, we Phoenix are generally quite quick to point to our storehouses of learning, and call ourselves the keepers of knowledge, but not all members of the clan share that knowledge as freely as others".
She looked rueful for a moment, having criticized her own family as openly as socially possible.
"Of course, on the other hand, the knowledge we keep here is often of vital strategic importance to the clan," She continued, perhaps to make amends to herself for the brief lapse "I would hardly want our spellcraft widely circulating the Empire and empowering those less respectful of the power such techniques hold. Imagine the Mantis, if they managed to get their hands on any of the spells contained in our archives."
She shuddered for a moment, in what Tamotsu judged to be a completely understandable concern. Rokugan's clan wars were bloody enough. A clan such as the Mantis with the power of the Isawa? Boundless ambition, backed by immense power and a complete lack of respect for it?
Terrifying.
"I appreciate the need to keep such knowledge out of the hands of those who have not proven their trustworthiness" Tamotsu said with a nod "Still, it's a disappointment. I had been planning to come here for many years, when I finally received the opportunity."
At that, Kasumi looked at the Shiba Bushi with an inscrutable expression "Oh? Why was it exactly, that you came here, if you don't mind my asking?"
"It was because of my great-grandfather, Shiba Kiyoshi," Tamotsu replied "He was a powerful Fire Shugenja, who-"
"Who disappeared and took all of his research with him. Yes, I remember." Kasumi interrupted. She looked apologetic "I think I understand now. You're seeking to solve an old family mystery?"
"Yes. I'm surprised you were so quick to remember it." Tamotsu said, answering honestly.
Kasumi chuckled.
"Kiyoshi had a brilliant mind," She said with a smile "One of the best we've produced in generations. He'd have become the Master of Fire, if he hadn't vanished so young. I'm surprised you thought I wouldn't know of him."
"Well, his legacy continues to affect my family, one way or another," Tamotsu said "Given that we don't know what became of him, we worry over what it means. Is Kiyoshi's soul trapped somewhere, needing to be freed before continuing on to Meido? Did Kiyoshi make himself immortal, and if so, where has he gone and why? And is whatever happened to him likely to happen to others like…"
Tamotsu trailed off mid-sentence.
Kasumi watched him shrewdly.
"Others, like you?" She asked, watching his face carefully.
Tamotsu frowned, uneasily.
"I'm not a Shugenja," He said at last, in what was a technically honest statement. He'd never been trained as one.
"No," Kasumi agreed "But you could have been".
Tamotsu opened his mouth, and then closed it.
"We keep careful records of everyone in the clan who shows the talent" Kasumi explained at his obvious confusion "We knew you had the potential to become a Shugenja, one who leaned strongly towards the same element as your ancestor, within hours of your birth."
She shrugged, as to say it was no secret.
"Yours was a memorable case, because although the clan almost invariably gives up every child with the talent to the Temples to study the magical arts, you were deemed a possible risk, due to the mystery of Kiyoshi's fate".
"I hadn't known that so many people knew" Tamotsu said at last.
"Most don't," the Isawa replied "But I have a very good memory".
"Well, regardless, it seems that I'm out of luck" Tamotsu said "I had intended to gain entry and research what I could of Kiyoshi's studies in hope of solving the riddle he left us, but I don't have the credentials I'd need".
Kasumi nodded "I know you might be dispirited, but it's for the best. Kiyoshi was a brilliant man, exploring advanced fields of magic that few of his peers could hope to keep up with. Finding out what happened to him would be a difficult enough task for a Shugenja, but for a Bushi…"
She trailed off, the implication clear. While the Phoenix cultivated intellectualism in their warriors, there was still a large gulf between the depth of knowledge that a Bushi and a scholar would be expected to hold. And when the field of knowledge in question was spellcraft that only made the task more difficult.
"I'm sorry to take up so much of your time" Tamotsu apologized, rising to his feet.
"It's no trouble," Kasumi assured him courteously "For my part, I'm sorry we couldn't help you".
The two bowed to each other, and the young Shiba warrior turned to open the door.
"One last word of advice, if I might, Tamotsu-san?" The librarian called from behind him.
He turned to face her.
"Kiyoshi's disappearance might seem quite troubling, but I'd urge you to put it out of your mind" She said seriously "Dwelling on the past for too long can make you miss what's happening in the present. Too many bright young samurai are led astray by such distractions. Promise me you won't become one of them."
Tamotsu bowed again, but he didn't speak. He wouldn't have been able to do so without lying, and he never lied.
He left the room disappointed, but no less determined than he'd entered it.
He still had a year to find answers, and the Isawa Library wasn't the only source of knowledge in the Empire.
Kyuden Asako was itself only several days journey south. It would make a fine start.
*****
Shiba Tamotsu sat on the floor, scrolls laid out all around him, and tried to make sense of what he was seeing.
There was the sound of footsteps approaching the door, and a deep voice called his name questioningly through the Shoji.
"Come in" Tamotsu called back.
The door opened. An older samurai, wearing a gold and brown kimono stamped with the mōn of the most militant clan in the Empire, and that of their family of Historians, stepped into the room followed by a servant bearing a tray.
Tamotsu looked up curiously.
"Good morning, Shiba-san" the Ikoma said courteously "I had hoped you would be agreeable to sharing tea with me, if you can afford to take a short break".
There was only one possible response to that. He was in an Ikoma castle, as an Ikoma guest, at Ikoma sufferance. A refusal would be churlish in the extreme, unless he had good cause.
"Of course, Daisuke-san" Tamotsu said politely, accepting the offered tea from the servant. He could afford to take a break. He wouldn't necessarily wish to do so, but he'd never be so uncouth as to say so to one of his hosts.
They sat opposite a small table, Tamotsu clearing it of scrolls.
"How goes your research, my friend?" Ikoma Daisuke asked, sipping his tea contemplatively.
"Well, thank you" Tamotsu said.
There was a momentary lull as they each considered what to say. Or at least, Tamotsu considered what to say; Daisuke was likely simply enjoying the tea and company.
Ikoma Daisuke was an unusual friend, Tamotsu had to admit. He'd never thought particularly well of the Lion clan for various reasons; they seemed so opposed to all of the principles the Phoenix held dear.
Daisuke seemed decent enough, however. The Lion bard seemed to relish the companionship of a fellow warrior-scholar, even (or perhaps especially) one outside his own clan and family.
That, at least, Tamotsu could understand. If he lived among a horde of warriors as aggressive as the Lion, he'd be glad of outside influence too.
"I have to say, you're a puzzle I haven't encountered often" Daisuke mused.
Tamotsu tilted his head "Oh?"
Daisuke nodded "A young, promising warrior, who sought and received permission from his superiors immediately upon graduating his Gempukku to undergo a Musha Shugyo, who then journeys to the greatest centres of learning in Rokugan to study fields most warriors would find utterly boring. If you were any more eccentric, I'd think you a Dragon, regardless of whose mōn you wore."
Tamotsu didn't bother correcting him that he wasn't on a Musha Shugyo, precisely. The two practices were similar enough that it was an easy mistake, but a Musha Shugyo was distinctly martial in nature, and Shugyosha were often swordsmen who were merely trying to find opponents and make a name for themselves.
Not to say that he thought that training one's swordplay was an unworthy ambition, but Tamotsu had a higher purpose with a more tangible goal. Improving himself would be a welcome side-effect, but it wasn't the achievement he was seeking.
"What makes you think I was such a promising warrior?" He said lightly "Perhaps my instructors were glad to be rid of me?"
Daisuke's lips quirked in an easy smile "That's a possibility, of course, but it makes for a poorer story. Young, intelligent samurai who set off on adventures across the Empire are obliged to be skillful heroes, or else why would anyone want to hear about it?"
Tamotsu shook his head slightly in exasperation, but felt a tugging at the corners of his mouth.
"In all seriousness," Daisuke said contemplatively "You told me when you first came here that you've been looking for something, but you've been quite vague on what that is".
Tamotsu shifted uncomfortably. The Lion's question, unasked but hardly subtle, was slightly more personal than he was accustomed to sharing with someone outside of his clan.
"I'm trying to make sense of something that happened decades ago," Tamotsu said reluctantly "Something important to my family. I'm trying see if I can find any clues or similar incidents buried in the lore in your family's library."
Daisuke nodded slowly "Well, I can't blame you for seeking your answers from the Emperor's chosen historians if the mystery you seek to solve is a historical one. Is there anything I can do to help?"
"No, thank you" Tamotsu said, shaking his head slightly "You've already done so much just by letting me stay here and investigate your library. My problems are not yours; I couldn't allow myself to impose any further."
Daisuke shrugged "We're the Empire's historians. Letting you peruse our writings is no generosity, merely fulfillment of our duty."
Tamotsu nodded "Still, I'm grateful. Too grateful, truthfully, to allow you to help me any more than you already have. My honour couldn't bear it."
"Ahh, well, if it is a matter of honour, then I'll say no more on the subject," Daisuke said with impeccable courtesy "But I'd be obliged to you if you'd be willing to play a game of Gō with me before returning to your research. I've been mad for the game ever since I first learned how to play, but most of my kin are more interested in Shogi."
"I'd be delighted," Tamotsu assured him "Would you prefer to play black or white?"
Daisuke made a face "Is that an honest question, Tamotsu-san? Who would ever choose black over white except out of courtesy for a lesser player? White, please. I need some advantage over a man who spends every waking moment expanding his education."
The afternoon passed in a pleasant haze. Tamotsu won two games and lost a third. He felt content enough that it was almost as if he was back at home playing against his father or brothers.
But when Daisuke took his leave, Tamotsu wasted no time turning back to his research. The diversion had been pleasant, but only for a brief time. He still had a great deal of work to do.
*****
The man known simply as Junichi, once Katai Junichi of the Lion vassal clan, now a mere ronin, barely stirred as his compatriots dropped into the seat beside him. At least until he heard the sound of bowls hitting the wooden surface of the table.
Kenta slid a bowl of Udon over to him, and he began eating reluctantly.
The innkeeper stood behind the counter, wringing his hands but obviously unable to do anything to get them to leave. When Kenta and Isamu had gone up to the counter and demanded food, as well as beds for the night, upon entering the inn, the man had had no other recourse but to agree.
A heimin was required to show absolute obedience to any samurai if they wished to avoid being immediately cut down, and the innkeeper was likely more afraid of them than he would be of any clan samurai.
Their appearance was filthy, and they wore no clan or family mōn upon their clothing. They'd long since parted with their former lords. It was obvious that they were ronin to anyone who laid eyes on them.
And everyone knew ronin were one bad day away from being bandits or mercenaries.
There was the sound of a door opening, and a well-dressed figure, or at least well-dressed compared to them, entered the mostly empty common room. All of the other guests had left shortly after they'd arrived.
It was a young man, dressed in red, bearing the two swords of a Bushi. Junichi, Kenta and Isamu no longer carried the Wakizashi themselves; a second sword was a luxury that they couldn't afford in the face of the always-looming threat of destitution.
Isamu saw the man enter, jerked his head over in his direction with a grin, and stood and walked over to him. Kenta rose and followed obediently, and Junichi sighed and did the same reluctantly.
"Ho! A pleasure to meet you, samurai-san" Isamu said with faux-friendliness "Too few of our kind on the road these days. Where do you come from?"
The young man's eyes passed over their figures, quietly judging, and Junichi felt his embarrassment more acutely than ever. Isamu saw him do the same, and his face twisted for a split-second into an expression much more ugly than the one plastered across his face before reverting to the fake smile.
The Phoenix – Junichi could see now he wore the Phoenix mōn on his clothing – appeared to give the question much more consideration than it merited.
"Kyuden Ikoma, most recently" The Phoenix Bushi said softly "Before that, Nikesake".
Isamu whistled "Pretty cities, those ones. Much too expensive to live in for the three of us."
The Phoenix shrugged, as if disclaiming knowledge of such concerns.
Isamu's face twitched at that.
"Mmm, I'm sure that you don't need to worry about those sorts of things, as well-dressed as you look. But not all of us are so lucky."
Isamu paused, as if something suddenly occurred to him "Y'know, considering that you're so much more well-off than we are, maybe you could spare some money for a few unlucky samurai. It would show some compassion on your part; you'd be doing well by Bushido."
"I need all my money to make it to the Temple of Heavenly Wisdom, and then home," the Phoenix said "So I'm sorry, but no".
"And what if I were to ask again, all humble like" Isamu asked, showing dirty teeth.
"My answer wouldn't change because you happened to ask again," The traveller said.
"And if I were to take it without asking?" Isamu said, the smile gone from his face now.
"I'd kill you," The Phoenix Bushi said softly.
There was silence throughout the inn.
Then Isamu leapt out of his seat, the Tanto he'd drawn underneath the table arcing towards the young man's face.
The Phoenix's sword flashed out impossibly fast, and Isamu's weapon arm and head were removed in the same motion.
Kenta jumped back to gain room, pulling his Katana free of its sheath. The blade was in poor condition, but Junichi knew that Kenta's skills hadn't grown any dull since his time in the army.
"That was my friend, you pampered bastard," Kenta said, spitting to the side angrily.
"I'm sorry," The Phoenix said solemnly "But he chose this fight, not me". Junichi could almost swear he was telling the truth about being sorry. He stood by uncertainly, not sure whether he wanted any part in what was to follow.
"I'm going to kill you, and leave you for the dogs," Kenta ranted, ignoring him "Pretty little Iaijutsu, for pretty little weakling duelists. But this isn't a court duel."
The Phoenix's face went blank, and his blade came up to rest easily before him.
"You should have just given us your money, fool" Kenta said angrily.
Junichi saw the words wash over the Phoenix as if he couldn't even hear them. The man was almost as still as a statue now.
"If you had, you might have escaped with your life!" Kenta finished, lunging forward with his Katana in a blindingly fast thrust.
The Phoenix swordsman stepped to the side and parried, cutting downwards in a return-stroke so fast that it wasn't until it emerged through the opposite side of Kenta's body that Junichi even saw it move.
Kenta's body fell to the ground, torn open. The blood from both of the corpses spilled across the floor, soaking through Junichi's sandals.
The Phoenix samurai met his gaze.
Junichi slowly raised his empty hands "I don't want to fight".
The Phoenix nodded "Neither do I".
Snow
Doka
- Pronouns
- She/Her
*looks at mostly blank character sheet*
...yeah, there's no way I'm going to finish on time. Sorry.
That said, it's a lot of fun looking through the books for inspiration. There are soooo many things.
I do have a question though. How is ammunition handled in L5R? Does someone playing an archer have to keep track of the number and type of arrows they have with them? School outfits do give specific quantities of arrows, which implies that it's necessary. But although the cost of arrows is given in the equipment section, it doesn't seem to state how many arrows you get for the price.
A Nation's Virtue
南國山河南帝居
@storybookknight
Might I make the suggestion that you threadmark important posts like the ones about timelines and important personages? It's a bit easier to find important info when it's all threadmarked.
EDIT: Thanks a bunch.
Might I make the suggestion that you threadmark important posts like the ones about timelines and important personages? It's a bit easier to find important info when it's all threadmarked.
EDIT: Thanks a bunch.
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Agasha Jihiro
Age: 21
School: Asako Loremaster
Insight: Rank 1 (134)
Honour/Glory/Status: 6.5/1.0/1.0
Traits:
Skills:
Phew...
Age: 21
School: Asako Loremaster
Insight: Rank 1 (134)
Honour/Glory/Status: 6.5/1.0/1.0
Traits:
| Air 2 | Earth 2 | Fire 2 | Water 2 | Void 3 | ||||
| Reflexes 2 | Awareness 3 | Stamina 2 | Willpower 2 | Agility 2 | Intelligence 3 | Strength 2 | Perception 3 | |
| High | Bugei | Low |
|
Courtier 3 Calligraphy,1 Divination 1 Etiquette 2 (Courtesy) Investigation 2 Meditation 3 Lore :History 2 Lore: Theology 1 Lore:Spirit Realms 1 Sincerity 2 |
Defence 1 Kenjutsu 1 |
Lore:Shadowland 2 Lore Mahou 2 |
Vitals
Initiative: 3k2
Armor TN: 10
Healthy Wounds: 10 (Earth 2)
Equipment
Sensible Clothing,
Wakizashi,
Calligraphy Set,
Traveling Pack,(Candles, Chopstick,Divination kit (coins), Personal Seal,Parchement and Charcoal,Spices,Pillow Book,Spare Kimono and Sandals,Small statue of Benten)
5 koku
Initiative: 3k2
Armor TN: 10
Healthy Wounds: 10 (Earth 2)
Equipment
Sensible Clothing,
Wakizashi,
Calligraphy Set,
Traveling Pack,(Candles, Chopstick,Divination kit (coins), Personal Seal,Parchement and Charcoal,Spices,Pillow Book,Spare Kimono and Sandals,Small statue of Benten)
5 koku
Advantages=[6]
Enlightend spiritual [5]: -2 XP to raise the void ring Fleeting Visions of knowledge, of the right way to do things sommetimes appear for him
Forbidden Knowledge: Mahou [5]: Knowledge is like fire, know it not and it can not warm you, know it to well and it burns you.
Seven Fortunes blessing( Bentens blessing)[4]: The Fortunate of Romantic Love has showered you with her blessings. Whenever you are attempting to persuade someone, regardless of the circumstances, you gain a bonus of +0k1 to the total of the Social Skill Roll in question. This bonus only applies to persuasion, not coercion.
People like me easily enough, It seems the Lady is two faced in this regards towards me.
Disadvantages=[10]
Bad Fortune [3]:Somewhere, someone is madly in love with you, and will go to any lengths to sabotage your romantic interests, even politically arranged marriages, in order to ensure taht you remain available, for them.
"I am just not to lucky in regards to maintaining Bentens favor in regards to a relationship"
Contrary [4]:Your strong will and rigid view of the world insists not only that you develop an opinion on everything, but that you must share it at every opportunity. During any debate or dispute, or even casual discussion, you feel compelled to weigh in and attempt to persuade others to see the matter from your point of view. In any tense situation, you must succeed at a Willpower Trait Roll to avoid taking action, whether to resolve a conflict physically or simply to interject into an argument. The TN for this roll can vary widely, and should be determined by the TM (typically somewhere between 5 and 25). This Disadvantage is worth 4 points to Imperial and courtier characters.
"Well if they where not so unwise..."
Lechery [2]: Physical pleasure is a weakness of yours, and you spend considerable time pursuing it. When an opponent makes a Temptation (Seduction) roll against you, he gains a bonus of +1k1 to the total of his roll.
"The Spirit is willing but the Flesh is easily distracted."
Enlightend spiritual [5]: -2 XP to raise the void ring Fleeting Visions of knowledge, of the right way to do things sommetimes appear for him
Forbidden Knowledge: Mahou [5]: Knowledge is like fire, know it not and it can not warm you, know it to well and it burns you.
Seven Fortunes blessing( Bentens blessing)[4]: The Fortunate of Romantic Love has showered you with her blessings. Whenever you are attempting to persuade someone, regardless of the circumstances, you gain a bonus of +0k1 to the total of the Social Skill Roll in question. This bonus only applies to persuasion, not coercion.
People like me easily enough, It seems the Lady is two faced in this regards towards me.
Disadvantages=[10]
Bad Fortune [3]:Somewhere, someone is madly in love with you, and will go to any lengths to sabotage your romantic interests, even politically arranged marriages, in order to ensure taht you remain available, for them.
"I am just not to lucky in regards to maintaining Bentens favor in regards to a relationship"
Contrary [4]:Your strong will and rigid view of the world insists not only that you develop an opinion on everything, but that you must share it at every opportunity. During any debate or dispute, or even casual discussion, you feel compelled to weigh in and attempt to persuade others to see the matter from your point of view. In any tense situation, you must succeed at a Willpower Trait Roll to avoid taking action, whether to resolve a conflict physically or simply to interject into an argument. The TN for this roll can vary widely, and should be determined by the TM (typically somewhere between 5 and 25). This Disadvantage is worth 4 points to Imperial and courtier characters.
"Well if they where not so unwise..."
Lechery [2]: Physical pleasure is a weakness of yours, and you spend considerable time pursuing it. When an opponent makes a Temptation (Seduction) roll against you, he gains a bonus of +1k1 to the total of his roll.
"The Spirit is willing but the Flesh is easily distracted."
Asako Loremaster techniques
Rank 1:The Asako are historians and scholars, and their studies are broader than those of any others in the Empire. They pride themselves on the depth of their knowledge in all fields of intellectual endeavor. They also share the Phoenix devotion to peace and civility, relying on genteel discourse to resolve problems. You gain a Free Raise on any Skill Roll with a Lore Skill. Any time you spend a Void Point on an Etiquette Skill Roll, you gain a bonus of +3k1 to the total of the roll instead of the normal +1k1.
Mastery
Courtier:Insight +3
Meditation: A successful Meditation Skill Roll restores up to 2 Void Points.
Rank 1:The Asako are historians and scholars, and their studies are broader than those of any others in the Empire. They pride themselves on the depth of their knowledge in all fields of intellectual endeavor. They also share the Phoenix devotion to peace and civility, relying on genteel discourse to resolve problems. You gain a Free Raise on any Skill Roll with a Lore Skill. Any time you spend a Void Point on an Etiquette Skill Roll, you gain a bonus of +3k1 to the total of the roll instead of the normal +1k1.
Mastery
Courtier:Insight +3
Meditation: A successful Meditation Skill Roll restores up to 2 Void Points.
Total: 69 | Unspent: 0
-14 Advantages
+9 Disadvantages
-14 Void 3
-12 Awarenes 3
-1 Kenjutsu 1
-1 Defence 1
-1 Investigation 1
-2 Investigation 2
-1 Lore Spirit Realm 1
-2 Lore Shadowland 2
-2 Lore Mahou 2
-1 Divination 1
-2 Courtier 2
-3 Courtier 3
-2 Etiquette 2
-2 Sincerity 2
-2 Lore History 2
-2 Etiquette Emphasis (courtesy)
-2 Meditation 2
-3 Meditation 3
-14 Advantages
+9 Disadvantages
-14 Void 3
-12 Awarenes 3
-1 Kenjutsu 1
-1 Defence 1
-1 Investigation 1
-2 Investigation 2
-1 Lore Spirit Realm 1
-2 Lore Shadowland 2
-2 Lore Mahou 2
-1 Divination 1
-2 Courtier 2
-3 Courtier 3
-2 Etiquette 2
-2 Sincerity 2
-2 Lore History 2
-2 Etiquette Emphasis (courtesy)
-2 Meditation 2
-3 Meditation 3
- "I am a member of the Phoenix clan for good or bad as a loyal member of my family.
- "I am a son of the Agasha family, born after the exodus from our ancestral home and so while not lost still lacking proper footing without the guidance of my ancestors. They where benevolent enough to take us in but yet it is a troubling situation in which we and those that we left behind are.".
- "I am a Courtier and Scholar, belonging to the school of Loremasters aiding the court with my wisdom. Even if I am not able to talk with the Kami I am still able to sway people by showing them the truth of how they should act for the betterment of all."
- "Well , what I heard others talk about me well, I think it went like this. :
A bit on the short side, hair that tends to be slightly frazzled as if it wants to escape its bonds, some might say like him when interaction with the stricter structure of the clan. A pleasant voice even if he has no talent for singing. And most scandalous a tattoo of a cherry tree in full bloom with petals falling from it on his left arm starting at the upper middle with the stern ending right above his hand while the last fallen petals are wrapped around his fingers all to often shown of in the dragon way. Not the most flattering of all descriptions but good enough I would say." - "Recognition, a desire to be accepted and yet I am is unsure if I wants to be accepted in the structure of the Phoenix, And of course there is the feeling of those that speak with the Kamis to look down on those among us who lack this gift."
- "The Twin sibling of Asako Juin-Ko and Asako Ryudo-kun are those that I hold clossst to my heart , we share long years of history with each other and I do not begrudge them there gift as unlike others they did not saw it as a reason for arrogance and both where still open to talk and inquire about things beyond th kami and I am honored that both of them count me as there Friends. This pair of twins which I feel are a daily reminder of the little teachers wisdom for in there opposition there is harmony one male one female, one brash one turned inside, both gifted with understanding of the spirits and yet close enough to the realm of mortal man not to loose sight of it.
After the tragedy of the riding incident struck, the two of them where my constant companions and the ones that prevented me from falling into darkness." - "Kowledge is both my strength and my weakness, I trust in it, and yet I only have it as the gift of speaking with the Kami is not granted to me, and I am all to familiar with how my own falling are making me step away from the path to truth."
- "Bushido is The way that shall bring us to harmony with the universe and so heaven, and yet I all to often see that Samurai let themself be blinded by it and act against the way of the world.
Duty is what is central to my being, for if I lack this, am I not simply a hollow shell that appears as a Samurai ?"
- "The Phoenix offered us honor and a home when we where lost without one, but there Pacifist ways are distraction even if it helps to shepherd people towards enlightenment, They celebrate my weakness and so my shame is hidden but, is it truly the best way for my family to go worth into that what will be? But there is also to consider the boons of wisdom that our closeness brought us, Wisdom without equal, and endless temptation."
- "Benten is not smiling on me in this. As I was to be wed and it came to be that this Marriage was not formalized . Lady Chukan Norido-mi which I had known from our days of learning in the way of the scholar was to be my bride but on one of her searches for alchemical ingredients her horse bolted and the fall broke her neck as it was told as she was found later. And with the dark rain there has not been a season to contemplate something new."
- "The foreign ways of the Unicorns and the brash desires that dominateds the Mantis, not glory but more fleeting things fitting for a Heinim are what removes them from enlightenment and so makes them forget the duty of a samurai. The Lions are to focussed on war inside the empire, unlike the Crabs in there noble duty, even if they lost manners."
- "Doing my duty I know that the Empire and even the clans in the end are fleeting. Family is what we make among those that are in harmony , and not consumed by darkness as we left those that we are bound to by blood behind. I am doing my Dutytowards them but our ultimate Duty is towards the world as we saw with the last Hantei, with the fate of my own family, all these offer us reason to end our oaths because the others are no longer deserving of having them, who is men then to turn to if not towards the Heavens?"
- "The smell of a old scroll cracked open to be read which promise s the touch of new knowledge, of basking in the wisdom of elder and the tantalizing movement of shoulder blades in the moment of strength and passion which exemplify the duality of the physical being are those things of man that move me the most both in there beauty, and in how they remind me of my own weakness. The moment when Lord Moon appears among the night sky is the moment that moves me that is not of man.
Lady Amaterasu harsh glare in the morning if she greets one while one is still, and not yet awake or she steals ones fleeting sleep after a long night on the other hand..." - "When nervous I tends to trace the lines of my tattoo and the uses the moment to adjust his hair to distract myself. That is if I can't see something beautifull with my far seeing eye."
- "I sometimes feel that I am a bit to likely to show fools that they are fools, but on the other hand a brash temper is not something that does plague me as I am not a having a violent temperament."
- "Learning requires being alive so I would only demand death for those things that are to dangerous in the spirtual sense and chastise those that do a Human error, Fortune Smiles on the Mortal man but also Missfortune."
- "My Parents think me both to soft and to willfully, Both of them have the Kamis gift which made , my lack of it problematic, I do not wish to dwell on it even if... It is as it is , I am to worldy for them in one way and yet to much of a dragon in others we are speaking but not in recent times . I was lucky that both where save in our lands from the Blood Rain."
- "Maybe to become someone graced by seeing the Touch of Heaven beyond what everyone sees already, or by finding peace, which is a fleeting dream memory."
- "Shinsei showed us that growing beyond the world is not only something for the gods, no fortune and enligthment are mans birthright just as it is there. I am dilligent in my prayers and my meditation even if despite my frequent offerings Lady Benten seems to find some special pleasure in playing with me. Far to many of my clan brothers and sisters only look for the Kami but , there is more to the world then just the Kami."
- "As my body gives out in bed would be one, but I fear it will be as my interest in knowledge leads me onto a to dark path and the creatures there shall slay me."
Phew...
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Alectai
Speaks Words of Wisdom... On occasion
Have to say, finding a proper reference for Takara's mask is going to suck.
I'm thinking of having it be a bit more abstract, but most image references that come up are fox masks
Ah well, we'll see. Might be wise not to do more though until I know if I made the cut or not.
I'm thinking of having it be a bit more abstract, but most image references that come up are fox masks
Ah well, we'll see. Might be wise not to do more though until I know if I made the cut or not.
A Nation's Virtue
南國山河南帝居
Tendo: "Wrap a towel or a bedsheet around your head and call it a day."Have to say, finding a proper reference for Takara's mask is going to suck.
I'm thinking of having it be a bit more abstract, but most image references that come up are fox masks
Ah well, we'll see. Might be wise not to do more though until I know if I made the cut or not.
Wade Garrett
Just trying to do the right thing
- Pronouns
- He/His/Him
Tendo: "Wrap a towel or a bedsheet around your head and call it a day."
"Ignore Monk-sama, dearie, the poor boy suffers from a complete ignorance of all forms of tact and knows nothing about fashion. I'm sure we can find you something suitable in the artisans quarter. Tell me, how do you feel about sharks?"
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Alectai
Speaks Words of Wisdom... On occasion
Well the age old problem with immages, like finding a dressed female Scopion
Don't even remind me.
A Nation's Virtue
南國山河南帝居
Snow
Doka
- Pronouns
- She/Her
I think you accidentally recorded Agility as 3 instead of 2.
Well the age old problem with immages, like finding a dressed female Scopion
Hmm...
Yeah, there aren't that many of them. :lol
It's easy, just look at art for other clans. Odds are a scorpion's lurking there somewhere.Well the age old problem with immages, like finding a dressed female Scopion
- Location
- Connecticut
- Pronouns
- He/Him
All right guys, I'm calling it. Thank you all so much for your interest and the terrific characters that you've shared. Sadly, any more than six people would make the game unmanageable, so as much as I would like to take everyone I'm going to have limit myself to just six.
Joining game will be:
@A Nation's Virtue - Tendo
@LastChronicler - Shiba Tamotsu
@Alectai - Soshi Takara
@The king Chad - Hida Kenta
@Wade Garrett - Yoritomo Rumina
@Faintrosity - Tsi Doru
Everyone who was not chosen for the first round, please let me know if you're interested in being 'on deck' in case players have to drop out. You are all welcome to read the IC thread once I get it up and running, and to continue to comment here!
Everyone who was chosen, congratulations! I'll be writing up the first story post hopefully sometime tonight. If you have any questions, would like to arrange already having met other characters now that you know who is in the game, or anything similar please go ahead and ask away!
Joining game will be:
@A Nation's Virtue - Tendo
@LastChronicler - Shiba Tamotsu
@Alectai - Soshi Takara
@The king Chad - Hida Kenta
@Wade Garrett - Yoritomo Rumina
@Faintrosity - Tsi Doru
Everyone who was not chosen for the first round, please let me know if you're interested in being 'on deck' in case players have to drop out. You are all welcome to read the IC thread once I get it up and running, and to continue to comment here!
Everyone who was chosen, congratulations! I'll be writing up the first story post hopefully sometime tonight. If you have any questions, would like to arrange already having met other characters now that you know who is in the game, or anything similar please go ahead and ask away!
- Pronouns
- She/Her
Toku Reiko
Age: 20
School: Toku Bushi
Insight: Rank 1 (132)
Honour/Glory/Status: 5.5/1.0/1.0
Background:
Traits:
Skills:
Age: 20
School: Toku Bushi
Insight: Rank 1 (132)
Honour/Glory/Status: 5.5/1.0/1.0
Background:
Traits:
| Air 3 | Earth 3 | Fire 2 | Water 2 | Void 2 | ||||
| Reflexes 3 | Awareness 3 | Stamina 3 | Willpower 3 | Agility 3 | Intelligence 2 | Strength 3 | Perception 2 | |
| High | Bugei | Merchant | Low |
|
Courtier 1 Ettiquette 1 Investigation (Search) 1 Lore: History 1 Sincerity 1 |
Athletics 1 Defense 1 Hunting 1 Heavy Weapons 1 Kenjutsu 1 |
Animal Handling 1 | Stealth 1 |
Vitals
Initiative: 4k3
Armor TN: 25
Wounds:
Equipment
Light Armor: Reduction 3, ATN +5
Daisho: 3k2 katana, may spend void on damage. 2k2 wakizashi, may be thrown 20'.
Ono: 0k4, big axe
Sturdy Clothes
Initiative: 4k3
Armor TN: 25
Wounds:
Equipment
Light Armor: Reduction 3, ATN +5
Daisho: 3k2 katana, may spend void on damage. 2k2 wakizashi, may be thrown 20'.
Ono: 0k4, big axe
Sturdy Clothes
Pillow book
Advantages=[15]
Benten's Blessing [4]: +0k1 to Social skills when persuading someone. She's a charmer, a real people person.
Blood of Osano-Wo [4]: Immune to environmental effects of heat/cold, reduce damage from natural type spell damage by 1k1. Crab blood!
Gentry [1]: 2 points (Heritage discount). Minor gokenin. the Monkey clan assigns at least one samurai to each of their villages, Reika has a little house in one of the smaller hamlets of the valley.
Large [4]: +1k0 damage with large weapons. Still some Crab in there!
Strength of the Earth [2]: Reduce wound penalties by 3. Tough as nails.
Disadvantages=[8]
Wanderer [2]: Bad at direction. -15 when using the Navigation emphasis
Lost Love [3]: Mental. +5 to TNs when reminded of them, void to negate. Only twice per day, at least an hour between. Husband Tadashi, died at Otosan Uchi.
Dependent [3]: Social. Son back home, cared for by her parents. Ichirou, bright kid, just turned five. She has a drawing he made her and a hand-print in her pillow book, want to see?
Benten's Blessing [4]: +0k1 to Social skills when persuading someone. She's a charmer, a real people person.
Blood of Osano-Wo [4]: Immune to environmental effects of heat/cold, reduce damage from natural type spell damage by 1k1. Crab blood!
Gentry [1]: 2 points (Heritage discount). Minor gokenin. the Monkey clan assigns at least one samurai to each of their villages, Reika has a little house in one of the smaller hamlets of the valley.
Large [4]: +1k0 damage with large weapons. Still some Crab in there!
Strength of the Earth [2]: Reduce wound penalties by 3. Tough as nails.
Disadvantages=[8]
Wanderer [2]: Bad at direction. -15 when using the Navigation emphasis
Lost Love [3]: Mental. +5 to TNs when reminded of them, void to negate. Only twice per day, at least an hour between. Husband Tadashi, died at Otosan Uchi.
Dependent [3]: Social. Son back home, cared for by her parents. Ichirou, bright kid, just turned five. She has a drawing he made her and a hand-print in her pillow book, want to see?
Rank 1: Toku's Lesson
A Monkey Bushi will prevail, even in the face of the most difficult odds. You add +1k0 to all Skill Rolls with a TN of 25 or higher. (This includes attack rolls.) Additionally, all your Wound Penalties are reduced by an amount equal to your Willpower plus double your School Rank.
Mastery
N/A
A Monkey Bushi will prevail, even in the face of the most difficult odds. You add +1k0 to all Skill Rolls with a TN of 25 or higher. (This includes attack rolls.) Additionally, all your Wound Penalties are reduced by an amount equal to your Willpower plus double your School Rank.
Mastery
N/A
60 total
+2 Wanderer
+3 Lost Love
+3 Dependent
-4 Benten's Blessing
-4 Blood of Osano Wo
-4 Large
-2 Strength of the Earth
-1 Gentry
-12 Reflex
-12 Awareness
-12 Agility
-12 Strength
-1 Animal Handling
-1 Courtier
-1 Etiquette
-1 Heavy Weapons
-1 Stealth
+2 Wanderer
+3 Lost Love
+3 Dependent
-4 Benten's Blessing
-4 Blood of Osano Wo
-4 Large
-2 Strength of the Earth
-1 Gentry
-12 Reflex
-12 Awareness
-12 Agility
-12 Strength
-1 Animal Handling
-1 Courtier
-1 Etiquette
-1 Heavy Weapons
-1 Stealth
- "Monkey Clan!"
- "Brand spankin' new family, y'know. The Toku!"
- "Uh...really? I mean...Lookit me. Seriously, bushi."
- "Well, and here I quote, 'That big gorgeous samurai-ko from down the valley that don't mind splitting a log or carrying a calf if needs be.' Can't beat it!"
- "I want the world to be a better place for my kids...kid, and grandkids. We've had a tough time of it the last few decades, and giving them a few peaceful ones would make me happy."
- "My da. He's getting up there in years now, but he taught me how to swing an axe, speak my mind, and I'd trust no one more to take care of Ichirou, 'cept my ma of course."
- "I'm strong, not bad looking, and honest. On the other hand, we're a new clan surrounded by old clans and none of them seem to quite know what to make of us. It's fine though, just gotta keep a smile in my heart and try and help'em see it from our point of view."
- "Well...it's real important. All that duty, and courtesy, and compassion stuff. Warrior's code right there, keeps us from just being a bunch of thugs with swords. Or it should."
- "The Monkey? We're one big family really. All those Great Clans have their big territory and a bajillion families, but everything is close here, friendly-like. I live by my parents, my cousins live by my aunts and uncles, and it's not that far from the ole castle, or new castle really. Hopefully the darn thing stays standing through this little scuffle..."
- "...I...I was. Tadashi served in the guard at Otosan Uchi."
- "Not really. You've gotta judge everyone as they are themselves. Just cause a fella's ronin doesn't make him a bad guy, and just cause that lady's got a family line goin' straight back to the Kami doesn't make her a shining beacon of virtue. Everyone's new, everyone's a bit different."
- "Toku Inao now.
Eh, twenty questions remain semi-complete, but I did want to get this in before the deadline to fulfill promises.
Joking half-promises, but promises nonetheless!
Edit: and ninja'd. It's still 5:00 EST!
- Location
- Connecticut
- Pronouns
- He/Him
That is a sweet picture, Mina. Where'd you find that?
EtchedSteel
*mumble mumble*
- Location
- Lima. Peru
Congratulations for those who got an in.
Looking forward for the IC
Looking forward for the IC
- Pronouns
- She/Her
This deviantart. It was funny I showed it to another GM of mine and he had a similar reaction. 10 minutes later, "Oh hey, wait...I've bookmarked this person a couple times."
The art is consistently excellent but the look shifts rather interestingly from piece to piece. Lotta good character stuff in there though. Saw this one and immediately thought of Tsubaki.
