The Daimo sat in his garden eating a peach, while catfolk servants attended to the needs of his household. A herald approached, and passed a scroll to the rotund lord.  A former warrior,
who for a time oversaw the Northport Adventurer's guild, Sakemoko was a wealthy man, and owned
 a strip of the docks. Unfortunately, other forces conspired to take some of the profits from
that territory.  It had been weeks since his primary enforcer had disappeared, and a new one was scheduled to arrive today. He was going to be needed, for situations had developed that
were going to need proper handling.

A very thin being with almost the appearance of a caricature is passed into the Daimo's presence by a guard.  As he approaches the lord, his skin shows as yellow as a flower petal, and what looks like hair in a Sahudese queue from a distance, on closer approach shows a glossy black surface, similar to polished leather.  He is plainly dressed and lightly armored, and carries a short whip coiled on his belt.

In Aralaise accented in a way that's very difficult to place, he bows, folds his left hand over his right fist, and addresses the Daimo:

"Lord, I have come as ordered.  I am Chou-Zhen Mou.  My power is at your service."

Airis walks to find the Daimo in the garden. She was dressed in her normal halter top with a long skirt with a slit in it and she has on low soft boots. Her long tail is hidden under the skirt. She was carrying a tray with the Daimo's favorite drink in a craft and a cup for it. She walked over to the Daimo and bowed deeply.

"My Lord, I was asked to bring you this to satisfy any thirst you may have. Do you desire any entertainment of any kind?" she pours some of the drink in the cup and waits for him to request it.

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 3):

The rotund daiymo picks his nose with one long nail,
contemplates it for a moment and flucks it aside before
accepting the beverage. He tastes it and grunts in
appreciation.
  "Chou-Zen Mou. I have called upon you to assist in
 the defense of our people. Today the reign of lawlessness is
over. Our new enforcer arrives today from our allies accross
the sea to take up the work that Chen Uzawi did before him.
There is unrest among our enemies and the members of my
household," he glances toward Airis,
"must attend to matters at home. There may be a need
for others outside of our circle."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 19:32, Thu 14 Jan 2016.

In reply to Sakemoko (msg # 4):

"I understand, Lord.  Do we seek others with power, or mere fists and fury?"

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 5):

"Where there is smoke, there is fire, where there is a
fist, you can be assured that an arm's  length behind that there is a head. If many fists, many heads. We have suffered
the loss of more than Chen Uwazi, gone these two moons; the
most esteemed elder Kumo No U~ocha was slain just over a week ago, and the community is without an oracle. One can only
 speculate as to why such a dishonorable thing was done. My
people have been searching pawn shops to see if the Classic
of Changes has been sold, and thus far the book of oracular
knowledge is lost to us."

Airis just stands holding the tray and smiles. She wonders who could be causing problems in the household. She wonders where this new mage type came from but it is not her business.

"The Book of Changes is missing?!  Are we then as a ship without lodestone or astrolabe?

"Alas, I have no knowledge of divination; neither the small auguries that might guide us day by day, nor those ways that might aid in finding the missing Book.  My powers might better apply to bringing back the Book if its whereabouts or holder are known."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 8):

"It is certain that you will play a part in restoring us to the path."

"My Lord, do you desire anything more of me?" she wondered if he would want her to go looking for the item but then as an entertainer, there was only so much she could do.

"Is it known where Kumo No U~ocha was, and what he was doing, when he was killed?  That knowledge might provide a better starting point for the search than a random canvass of pawn shops -- though that task should not be neglected, just in case his murder stemmed from a random robbery."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 11):

"He was found in his rooms above the noodle shop, his throat slit and the door kicked in. There were fine pieces of jade and porcelain that were not taken. I have spoken with a guildsman who owns the adjacent property, a gambling hall and
Fighting pit under construction and came to an agreement not
 to involve the local gendarmes, for our mutual benefit, but
His people do not know who might have done such a thing."

"Any common thief would have taken the jade and porcelain, both easily sold, in preference to an old book that is likely to bring little money and too much attention.  I think we are safe to believe that the Book was the true target, and Kumo No U~ocha was killed only because he was present and might have resisted or identified the thief.

"Have we access to a mage who uses Knowledge magic?  I know of spells that can replay an incident, under the right conditions and if not too old.  I don't know those spells, but if we have no one else we can trust, sometimes I can cast a spell I have not studied.

"If I were to attempt that, I would have, effectively, only one try; how precisely do we know the time of death and location of the body?  Also, do we have anyone available who could make an identifiable sketch from seeing someone's face a single time?  That, I fear, is outside my talents."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 13):

"Your talents come well recommended, although there is one who is friendly to us whose ship is down at the docks even now who may be able to assist in this way"

In reply to Sakemoko (msg # 14):

"If you will tell me how to identify this friendly one, I will go to the docks and meet him, then begin searching for the Book of Changes.

"If there is no one in the household or organization who can draw the murderer's face, perhaps I can hire someone to do so, for truly, I am no artist, and well know that a verbal description is a poor way to identify anyone.  It is likely I can find someone with the necessary skill at the Guild."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 15):

"Let us wait until our new enforcer arrives. Then I can send an invitation to our friend  and escort him properly."

In reply to Sakemoko (msg # 16):

"As you wish, Lord."

Airis just waits as she doesn't want to interrupt the Lord as she is only a servant.

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 18):

"Airis,I am assigning you to attend to the needs of our guest, the honorable Yoshimura Furawa, and to be part of the
 delegation of the household to greet him. I have known him
 l8ng, and his people have ever been friendly to our household. Chen-zou Mou, you will also serve as a part of this delegation, as befits your place as an agent of this
house."

Airis bows to Sakemoko "Yes my lord. as you desire" she says as she waits to go with Mou.

Looking at the servant girl as if for the first time, Chou asks: "Have you any skills in art?  Perhaps drawing, or painting?  Or do you sing, or dance, as many of the lord's servants do?"

Airis looks at Chou "Yes, I can sing and dance as well as acrobatics. I also can do some fire eating."

The not-quite-man's face takes on an expression that's hard to interpret, though it's hard to say whether it's because of his abnormal features, or because he's thinking something very out of the ordinary.

"Have you any skills in fighting, magic, or investigation?  I ask because I foresee those skills as being of more use outside the household than singing, dancing, and acrobatics, never mind fire eating."

"Yes, I know something about investigating. As an entertainer, I can more around quietly and I am able to defend myself. But I do not have any skill in magic. And I can be very good at drawing attention when I want to and not when I do not want too"

It's not until it suddenly stops that you realize his queue was switching very slightly, like a cat's tail when it's only mildly annoyed.

"Then you are a welcome addition to the delegation.  I would have to be an illusionist to pass for human or avoid notice, but you can blend in as just another servant, and still use your skills to gather information I might be unable to learn."

Airis grins "Thank you sir. I will do my best" she says to Chou. "Is there anything in particular I should bring? I can bring a variety of clothing and things."

"I would not expect costume changes to be a major part of our investigation, but I do not know what Mr. Furawa might require of you.  I would suggest that you bring what you normally would to entertain, plus whatever you might need to defend yourself, and any investigative tools that might be helpful in finding out who killed Kumo No U~ocha.  If needed, we can request a porter from the household or hire one at the Guild."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 29):

"I believe Miko can fill that role adequately.

Chou once more bows to the lord, folding left hand over right fist.

"You are most generous, Lord."

He then subsides into silence, standing in a waiting pose, only his eyelids moving as he blinks from time to time.

"Yes, I am familiar with Miko.  I do not think I will need any help carrying my gear, I do not have that much. she says with a grin. "I can be ready to go with in an hour if needed"

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 32):

" My child. Miko will travel with you to attend to the
 Portage needs of Master Yoshimura. I fully expect you to
 manage your own gear in a dignified manner. Tim7ng waits only on the coming of Chen Uwazi's replacement."

"Lord, is the new enforcer later than expected?"

She wondered how much of an enforcer he was if he couldn't meet Sakemoko on time but she didn't say anything, it was not her place.

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 35):

"I have sent a courier to locate him. He is new
here, and not familiar with the lay of the land. We are,
after all, here upon the western horn of the ox head that is
the harbor, when most of our people live near the base of the
 eastern horn, under the shadow of the Twilight House and the
Cathedral of the Bakemono. Indeed, they dwell almost upon
 their doorstop."

In reply to Sakemoko (msg # 36):

"So it is.  One hopes the courier will promptly and easily find the new enforcer before he is misdirected by asking directions to the Sahudese quarter."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 37):

"I have a certain amount of trust in Lee Phuong. I trust him to lose time and a few strings of cash at the gambling table, but I also trust him to run an errand first."

In reply to Sakemoko (msg # 38):

"If you trust Lee Phuong, I will do the same."

Airis was patient but even she was wondering where this enforcer was. But she could do nothing but wait. She looks at Chou-Zhen Mou "Do you need any assistance in getting anything ready for the trip Sir?"

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 40):

"I need only pick up my pack as I leave.  I will need to purchase provisions if we are to leave the city or travel to the undercity for more than a few days, but otherwise, I have everything I need."
This message was last updated by the player at 17:01, Sun 24 Jan 2016.

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 41):

"There are ways under the city known to my people, if it comes to that"

In reply to Sakemoko (msg # 42):

"I do not yet know if we will need to pass beneath the city, but if we do, guidance will be welcome."

Eventually, Jin is escorted into the Palace. He makes his way to the Sakemoko. The fight at the docks lasted only seconds, the chat at the tavern lasted only minutes, so he is, as far as he is aware, right on time.

Upon seeing the Sakemoko, Jin goes to his knees, touching his forehead to the floor to show the great man proper respect.

In reply to Jin (msg # 44):

"Rise, Jin, well recommended successor to Chen Uwazi.
Our fine house has need of your talents, as two moons have
 passed since the death of your predecessor by the arrows of
Akira Aku No's people. Let me introduce members of your
 cohort. This is Airis Moonshadow, a member of my household,
and Chou-Zen Mou, a wu-jen.  Bellarius, may I trouble you for
 the names of his companions?"

In reply to Sakemoko (msg # 45):

"Certainly, master, these are Iskander Cambriel Almonte, and forgive me, the other is not known to me."

"Dockworkers had been paid to assail us upon our arrival," Jin said. "These men assisted in fending them off, in their own way."

In reply to Jin (msg # 47):

Iksander bows low.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 48):

"I am Ales Konstantin, lately of Shevnia."
After seeing everyone else bow, Ales follows suit, although not bowing too deeply.

Airis steps back so the others can get close to the lord. She stands in the background observing everyone.

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 50):

Jin, I must appraise you of certain events that have
transpired through the agency of Akira Aku No. Our Oracle,
Kumo No U~ocha, has been slain, and his copy of the Classic
 of Changes stolen, leaving us without guidance from our
ancestors.  We need to request assistance from the wise man
 who travelled with your ship, Yoshimura Furawa."

Jin considered the matter, then gave a short sharp nod. "Understood."

In reply to Jin (msg # 52):

"I will need you to leave forthwith, with Lee Phuong,
Miko, Airis and Chou-Zen to greet and escort Yoshimura to our
precincts."

Jin brought his hands together and bowed his head. "Your will be done. Where is Yoshimura waiting?"

In reply to Jin (msg # 54):

"He should be in his stateroom on your ship."

Jin nodded. "As you wish." He waited to be dismissed.

In reply to Jin (msg # 56):

Iskander waited with anticipation.

Chou-Zhen also waits, left hand folded over right fist and head bowed.

Airis waits for the men to bow and then she bows to Sakemoko and follows the others out after they leave.

Unaware of how he wound up here, he decided he would remain largely quiet unless asked questions.  He, however, took note of the surrounding, impressed with the opulence of the palace.

He bowed lowed to the one he believed in charge.  "I hope that I may be of some small service. May the Light be ever praised."

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 60):

"Praise is given with each sunrise, although oft only
because another night  has passed. Go now to the ship."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:33, Wed 27 Jan 2016.

In reply to Sakemoko (msg # 61):

Iskander bowed himself out of the daimyo's court and followed the group.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 62):

he spoke: "let us proceed cautiously. the gendarmes will no doubt still be looking about."

Jin rolled his shoulders, gave a deep bow to his Master, then headed out, back to the docks.

In reply to Sakemoko (msg # 61):

"As you wish", Ales replied.  He made one more small bow and headed out towards the ships with the others.

He looked over at Iskander and his eyes narrowed.  "You're the one who ruined my day out at the pier.  What is your name?"

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 65):

"you can call me Señor Almonte..." he replied a bit dryley, one of his brows slightly raised in distaste. "and what of you, stranger?"

In reply to Iskander (msg # 66):

"In that case Sr. Almonte, you can call me Captain Morgan", he said sardonically. "But I am more widely known as Ales Konstantin.  I specialize as a spellsword, yet I am cursed with a dislike of physical violence. Usually leads to too much blood."

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 67):

"you seem to have no issues with violence when administered magically....Cap'n"

In reply to Iskander (msg # 68):

"I find I am a man of many contradictions, Sr.  The things I hate I often use to ensure I survive in this world."

He sighed.  Ales truly just wanted to be left alone, but he feared he was being drawn into something much more bigger than he was.

"You guys want some privacy?" Jin asked, bored. "Palace has a lot of rooms. You want to get to hang out and know each other here, I can handle this."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:34, Thu 28 Jan 2016.

In reply to Jin (msg # 70):

Just noticing the heavily tattooed guy on his right, he shrugged.  "It matters not. As soon as I help out with this task, I plan to leave this gods forsaken town and go somewhere else.  Whether we are Guildbook pals or we barely know each other, I could care three shits."

"So what is your name, O Lord of the Ink?  And do you have a sort of plan to accomplish this task?"

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 69):

" i'm not keen on dispensing injury, but it seemed like little choice today."

Jin stopped and slowly turned towards Ales. "Nobody forcing you to be here. You want to go, go. You want to stay and earn some coin, you stay and earn some coin.

He looked at the other one. "Goes for you too. You don't want to be here, I don't want you to be here. Clear?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:46, Thu 28 Jan 2016.

Airis looks at the men, knowing where in the palace they could have rooms. "Gentlemen, can I show you to your rooms where you can relax. I gather you all would like to be close to each other? There is a place where there are 3 rooms around a small common room"

Chou-Zhen collects his backpack from the guard as he leaves the audience chamber, then takes up a walking place alongside the burly tattooed man.  Chou-Zhen's slender form makes a striking contrast against Jin's musculature.

"You are Jin?  I see you are well-muscled.  I presume by that and the great club you carry that your main skills are physical.  That will serve us well once we find the murderer, but are you also skilled in finding information, either from people or from what is left behind?

"My own abilities are mainly magical."  At this point, he speaks a couple soft words and a small ball of flame appears above his left palm, to vanish, a moment later, in a puff of thin smoke.  "I have no knowledge of how to find a murderer, though it is possible I might find a magical way to learn something useful."

In reply to Jin (msg # 73):

"Look, Tattoo Boy, I may not want to be here, but I AM here. And once I commit to something even begrungingly, I see it through.  Call it another one of my contradictions."

He interwove his fingers and popped them to relieve the stress.  "Besides," he said more softer, "I have my own personal reasons to be here. There is magic in this area in need to research, and a few traitorous dockworkers that need to be burnt to a crisp."

Ales noticed the pretty feline-esque lady and smiled at her.  "And who may you be?  I don't think I've had the pleasure of meeting you."

She looks at Ales "I am Airis. I was told to accompany your group to help.  I am an entertainer and will help as much as possible. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you"

"Airis is but a servant, and now is not the time to be settling guests in sleeping rooms.
We must away to the docks to escort Mr. Yoshimura back here."

She looks at Chou-Zhen Mou "Yes sir, you know best" she says with a smile.

"I enforce Sakemoko's will." Jin turned to Chou-Zhen. "Consider me the instrument of his displeasure. People tell me things when they think it will spare them further suffering."

In reply to Jin (msg # 80):

"That is surely one way to gather information.  I could wish we had someone among us who could, as in the old Sahudese tales, gaze into ashes and tell the story of the fire.  Perhaps one of you, Ales or Iskander?"
This message was last updated by the player at 01:06, Thu 28 Jan 2016.

"Maybe the wise man we have been sent to collect."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 81):

[to Chou] " I'm quite able to gather information by much more subtle means... i'm a vetern adventurer even before i joined the guild. i'm also a bit of a learned, though still learning, man... i believe i can be of much use. but we have stirred up trouble here... we should keep public displays to a minimum. no more bedlam, i would suggest."

"Perhaps, Jin.  Yoshimura-san is unknown to me.

"Iskander, learning is always best done in quiet.  The less the mud is stirred, the clearer the water remains."

"Learning may be quiet, but teaching can be very loud. Those who oppose Sakemoko will be vested with a most educational brutality, and the whole of Northport will learn the price of disrespect."

In reply to Jin (msg # 85):

Iskander wondered about this sakemoko's benevolance, as he considered his new enforcer's zeal.
he hoped that he hadn't gotten involved with tyrants and bullies... his pensive expression was hidden by the depths of his hood, as he walked along.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 86):

Another catfolk servant, wearing the basket of a laborer on her back accompanies you

"Jin-san it is good that you have come to replace Chen Uwazi.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:15, Fri 29 Jan 2016.

"What happened to Chen?"

Airis follows along, waiting to see what will happen. She figures if there is any trouble, she will just hide behind the mage.

"Did you not hear the daimyo?  He said that Chen Uwazi was killed by Akira Aku No's archers.  I did not know Chen, as I was not yet in Lord Sakemoko's service at that time, but it seems unlikely that Chen's death and the killing of Kumo No U~Ocha, with the accompanying theft of the Classic of Changes, are unconnected."

"I was talking about the circumstances," Jin said. "Where was he. What was he doing. How did they come upon him. Chen is not the sort to be caught unawares."

He kept walking, considering the matter. "No matter. When Sakemoko gives me free reign, I bury Akira Aku No in his archer's skulls."

"Ah.  I know nothing more of either killing than what the daimyo has told us.  Kumo No~Uocha was found in his home, with throat slit, his door kicked in, and many valuable but mundane objects left untouched.

"It seems likely that between us we may well have to bury Akira Aku No, though whether there will be enough left of his archers to use their skulls seems uncertain.  First, however, we must fetch Furawa-san from the ship -- which will require us to avoid the attention of those who hired the dockworkers you encountered.  Does Furawa-san know and trust you, or did you travel unaware of each other?"

"The dockworkers were simpletons hired to cause trouble," Jin said. "I hope their families find the pay adequate for the loss of livelihood suffered. I imagine that losing a leg makes physical labor more difficult.

"On the ship I kept to myself. I was not aware of the other passengers."

In reply to Jin (msg # 93):

Lee leads your party back to the docks through a convoluted route. In the distance you can see a number of blue cloaks and a purple clad priest with strange hands.
"Jin-san, we are nearing the ship."

"Still there?" Jin frowns. "How long does it take the city guards to clean up? Just sweep the dead and mortally injured off the dock. Lazy."

In reply to Jin (msg # 95):

Iskander speaks:
"they won't until they have this thing sorted out. even now, i suspect they are beginning a preliminary investigation.. the question is, if we are recognized will we be able to rely on diplomatic immunity from the magistrate? i wouldn't count on it."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:57, Fri 29 Jan 2016.

"Sakemoko is important. Big in business. Community leader. Doesn't have official legal immunity, but I would hope the guard know better than to interfere with his business."

He smirked. "Don't know where you come from, but in my city the guard were the ones too dumb to get real jobs, too weak to be soldiers. Job is standing around, yelling, and chasing after any thief too stupid not to steal in front of them."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:04, Fri 29 Jan 2016.

"Gentlemen, may I suggest that I go over to the ship and see if he is there and bring him to you. I can go unnoticed and I was not here previously" she looks at men for approval.

"We're probably in no danger, but take Chou with you."

She looks at Jin "I would not think your in danger but your precious time might be, guards like this that lack sense can be a great waste of time. If it is important to make contact and be on our way, why take the chance, how does that sound sir?" she says looking at Chou.

In reply to Jin (msg # 97):

an ivory grin appeared beneath from his shadowed eyes. " i'm from valdassya, i've been to sea three years, then i've been here in northport mostly since. i get restless and sojourn the realm, or seas ever so often. you must indeed be new here..for the gendarmerie is well disciplined and receive magical aid from specialized staff in some instances..which is why i stress caution."

"No, I mean they probably aren't looking for us, but yes, go with Chou while we wait.

"Guards are not magistrates. Magistrates are not guards." He turned to Iskander. "Listen, I am not good with your language. Does this word you keep using mean anything other than 'guards'?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:32, Fri 29 Jan 2016.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 101):

"i think sending Airis would probably be the smartest move. she has a distinct appearance that was not apart of the original scene. i support her decision"

In reply to Jin (msg # 102):

[to Jin] "well, it's an aralaise term. funny you mention it sounding pretentious, as they are a pretentious lot. the nobility, at least. but, it means the gaurd, yes."

"Confusing. This language we speak right now. It is Aralaise. The word "guard" is "guard."

In reply to Jin (msg # 105):

"what did you do before you were given the honor of your new position, Jin?"

"Different family. Same role. The unspoken threat to younger brothers and business associates. Do your job, don't misbehave, don't talk, pay your dues, or Jin will come to say hello."

He sighed. "Family here is smaller. The rest of the city... they don't know they should watch their manners. Don't worry. They will learn. Soon, I hope. I am not the most patient of teacher."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:08, Fri 29 Jan 2016.

"I agree, since neither Airis nor I were present when the fight occurred, we shouldn't draw the attention of the guards.  Hopefully we can convince Furawa-san that we represent the daimyo."

"If not, come get me."

In reply to Jin (msg # 109):

"if he's expecting us, then there shouldn't be a problem. but i am suprised lord sakemoko hasn't produced a formal message, prepared with his seal. it usually saves the trouble of such difficulties."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 110):

"Mistriss Airis, I possess a document of introduction bearing the Omo's seal."

Ales, following with the group, listened as they decided who to send to see what all the commotion about.

"I agree that Airis is a good choice, but I have a better choice. Myself."  He smiled and started to speak in a dockworker's voice.  "I can change my appearance as well and go see what I can find out from our lovely shipbuilders."

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 112):

Iskander looked at the others, then back at Ales. "They make a better emissary than you do, to be sure. Why use magic when practicality would work best?"

In reply to Iskander (msg # 113):

"Yes, you're right, Iskander.  Ordinarily."  He quietly pointed towards the man in the center of the menagerie of carnage.  "I'm almost certain that he's some sort of necromancer.  I couldn't tell much more than that at this point."

He frowned.  "If they're hiring necromancers, I don't like what other surprises that group has for us."

"What are you afraid of?" Jin seemed amused. "It's no crime to protect yourself. And coming to the aid of poor shipworkers under attack? A noble thing. They are an inconvenience. One that Sakemoko can make disappear, if you're loyal. Clearly if they're paying wizards to look at a simple dockside brawl, the authorities aren't very good at their jobs. Waste of our taxes."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:29, Fri 29 Jan 2016.

"Mr. Konstantin, if Furawa-san is wise enough to see through an illusion, you would likely engender distrust.  Better if Airis and I, along with Lee Phuong, seek him on the ship while the rest of you stay out of sight.  We can rejoin you at a predetermined location on the way back to the daimyo's palace.

Where should we meet?"

In reply to Jin (msg # 115):

Iskander frowned as he looked into the distance where Ales Pointed. " they bring in healers first to try and salvage life..when that fails they have necromancers on standby.. waste not-want not..."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 116):

"how about we find another tavern, other than the one Lee found us in? docks are full of them, for the sailors that come to port."

"Select a suitable one, preferably not too rough.  We don't wish to give Furawa-san the wrong idea about his escort."

She looks at Lee "Can I please have the introduction and I will go and do the meeting. I think we should avoid magic but it is up to you gentlemen"

"It might be best if Lee Phuong handles speaking to Furawa-san.  You and I can be what we are -- a servant entertainer and a wu jen, for protection."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 118):

"I just feel there's more to this than a simple investigation."

He nodded to Chen.  "Go, but be careful.  I would hate for anything to happen to Miss Airis."

"So, Iskander, where shall we go to get shitfaced drunk or whatever the locals do around here?"

"Probably best if you try to remain sober, again, to avoid offense to Furawa-san."

"Funny you guys think you have a say in how this happens. Chou, go get the wise man and bring him here. Right here. Where I'm standing. Bring Lee, and the entertainer if you think you'll be bored."

He gestured towards Iskander and Ales. "You guys can wait here with me or fuck off to a tavern and get shit-faced. I don't care."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:48, Fri 29 Jan 2016.

Chou's queu begins to twitch, ever so slightly, rather like a cat's tail.

"As you say.  Lee, Airis, let us proceed."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 123):

"i agree. mid-job isn't exactly the time for carousing about town." he began to look around and spoke again. "if we want something a little better than where the riffraff go, then we'd best head near the gates into the next ward. no self respecting person would stay in any of those places by the waterfront."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:53, Fri 29 Jan 2016.

Jin reached back and patted his throwing iron, then the empty loop on the other side. He drew the weapon with a frown. "Chikushō. Have to get the other one back from the guard later."

"We wait here. Then go back to Sakemoko."

In reply to Jin (msg # 127):

Iskander leaned against the wall and folded his arms. "whatever.. let's just get on with it."

She bows to Chou "Please lead on, your have great wisdom" she hopes there will not be trouble.

In reply to Jin (msg # 127):

"I guess it will give me time to practice my forms."  He ducked into the shadows away from the crowds and practice some basic sword movements.

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 130):

Iskander covered the rest of his face with his hand and sighed audibly. he moved away from Ales a considerable distance. "he's mad... put your weapon away! are you mad!?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 00:10, Sat 30 Jan 2016.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 131):

He put his sword away and laughed.  "Let me do something and maybe I won't go mad from boredom."

Ales leaned against a door rail and yawned.

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 132):

Iskander's cheeks puffed out like one of the 4 winds, sighing in relief. "good...i was hoping with the gaurds just over there, you would reconsider. how long have you been in northport? i recognize your shevnian accent to your aralaise. not uncommon, after the war and all..."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 133):

"Just a few weeks.  I sensed unusual magic in these parts, so I found lodging in town, doing transcription on the side to afford rent.  In my off time, I am looking for something that will allow me to create a reliable teleportation spell."

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 134):

"who do you transcribe for?"

In reply to Iskander (msg # 135):

"Anyone needing a honest transcription of events or discussions.  I charge in relation to the status of the individual.  Why, do you need some document translated or transcribed, Iskander?"

He took a small swig out of his water bottle.

Turning away from Jin, Iskander, and Ales, Chou-Zhen motions for Airis and Lee to follow as he strides toward the ship.  Pausing near where the healer is at work, he looks at the carnage and the healer.

"I would offer my strength to aid you, if you need it."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 137):

"no..." he said, focusing his attention on the group as they headed off to find their quarry.

Airis follows Chou-Zhen towards the ship and stops when he does. She looks around at what had happened. She is glad she was not there.

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 139):

[to Ales] " no. i can transcribe myself, but i've never considered doing it for money. if i'm around texts, then i'd rather be researching and taking my own notes... hmmm yes. tell me.. can you affect spirits or drive them away and produce magical light?"

In reply to Iskander (msg # 140):
"for another time, perhaps.."

"Easier ways to make money than transcription," Jin said. "Work for Sakemoko. He'll make you wealthy."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 141):

"Oh, but I learn quite a bit through my transcriptions. If you are clever, you can always palm a copy of whatever you are writing to read letter.  In that way, I learn things I never would have known."

He took another drink out of his water bottle.  Waiting around and shooting the shit sure makes one thirsty.

"As far as your other question:  I don't have those abilities.  I was limited by the books I found in my mother's alchemy lab and what I could learn by myself.  Most of that involved illusion and pyromania.  Eventually, I hope to extend my knowledge to other areas."

In reply to Jin (msg # 142):

[to Jin] "i like to work for myself, personaly... though there is nothing wrong with well paying employer for when i'm in one place awhile."

"Hey, you get off reading other people's mail, you be you," Jin said. "But if you want to do spell research, invent new teleportation magic? Expensive. Used to bodyguard a wizard, that's where all his money went."

He pointed at his eyes. "Eyes on the prize. Put your reading other people's mail hobby on hold. Make real money. Get what you came for. Hell, keep your job reading other people's mail, sell the juicy bits to Sakemoko. Lots of ways to earn extra coin, you know the right people."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:01, Sat 30 Jan 2016.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 144):

[to Ales] "any knowledge worth palming wouldn't be entrusted to you for transcribing. everybody knows that.. anything worth knowing is going to be in someone's personal ibrary, or buried and forgotten among other scattered books."

"Depends on the client. Some people are smart. But never underestimate how stupid rich people can be. They forget what it's like to be poor, how everybody who isn't rich is always looking for a way up."

He grinned.

"And if you're a servant? They forget you're there. Look right through you. Best way to infiltrate a household, get them to hire you. Clean 'em out or kill 'em in their sleep or whatever the job is."

That's why Sakemoko has men like me. Clean out the trash. Half my job is watching to make sure none of my brothers or sisters step out of line."

In reply to Jin (msg # 145):

"Hey, Kranky, calm down", he snapped, "I'm watching! Nothing's happening over there yet.  If it is, I'll just pull out my trusty sword and hack a few limbs off."

Ales cracked his knuckles.

[to Iskander] " You'd be surprised.  Maybe not everything I would like... but enough that I can find out what I want with a few clever questions."

Jin looks confused by Ales's words. "What are you talking about?"

In reply to Jin (msg # 147):

[to Jin] " yes, you're quite right about that. although i suppose i was thinking more along the lines of magic and mystical secrets."

In reply to Jin (msg # 149):

He realized he may have insulted Jin.  "No hard feelings.  I meant I was watching Airis and Chou to make sure nothing bad was happening over there."

He sighed.  Today was just one of those days.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:18, Sat 30 Jan 2016.

"We're talking about how you can earn money and you just go off about what you're watching. Take it easy."

He leaned forward. "Listen. Aralaise isn't my first language. I don't speak it so good. So if I misunderstand and think you are disrespecting me or my master, I apologize in advance for tearing your off and beating you to death with it."

He smiled. "So take it easy, yeah? I'm a jumpy guy."

In reply to Jin (msg # 152):

*guffaws*

In reply to Jin (msg # 152):

Ales smiled.  "Sure thing."

He leaned forward towards Jin.  "I would never disrespect your Master. I don't go poking hornet's nests without a way of escape.  I may be rough, but I will honor my agreements."

Straightening back up, he peered back over towards Airis and Chou's direction.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:19, Sat 30 Jan 2016.

OOC: Should I cross-post to Ruckus at the Docks?  Dareos may not be reading this thread.

Jin watched Chou talking to the guards' necromancer and frowned. "Remind me never to rely on Chou to follow simple instructions. Get on the boat. Get the target. Get off the boat. Return here."

In reply to Jin (msg # 156):

Ales chuckles but otherwise does not say anything.

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 157):

"he seems sensible enough..."

"Sensible is getting the job done without extra attention."

In reply to Jin (msg # 159):

"hmmm.." Iskander watched intently.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 160):

" it appears that he stopped and lent strength to the healer, aiding him in tending one of the victims. it sure took alot out of him. he's collapsed!" Iskander continued to watch.
"there he goes now...waiting to board the ship." he was glad nobody was killed from what seemed mere folly, to him.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 161):

"Yes, but at this rate, we may be old widows before they get their targets."  He yawned, but otherwise maintained his vigil.

"It's been a minute or so. Show some patience."

In reply to Jin (msg # 163):

"We Shevnians are not known for patience.  We tend to fight wars over the pettiest of things, like latkes and perogies.  It is a defect I have trying to overcome."

He quieted down and continued his vigil.  "I will wait."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:29, Tue 02 Feb 2016.

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 164):

"hey wizard. show us some parlor tricks"

In reply to Iskander (msg # 16

In response, Ales shot Iskander a nasty scowl.  "I am no circus clown, here to play for your amusement."

He took a small sip of his water bottle.  "However, if you show me one of your parlor tricks, I'll show you one of mine."

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 166):

*guffaws*

In reply to Iskander (msg # 167):

"i don't know any spells. though i could learn the simple ones. i want to increase my magical power first. my skills are all of the mundane variety...it seems."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 168):

Airis, Lee, Miko, and Chou seem to be in conversation  with
someone on the ship. Meanwhile, several guardsmen are trying to help the collapsed priest.

"Most wizards are worthless," Jin watched the action at the docks carefully. "Waste their powers doing things any idiot can do. Combat magic especially. What a waste. Instead of casting a spell to read the enemy's mind or tell the future, they use it to do the job of a soldier or archer. Only less effectively.

"Not all wizards, mind you. But most. You know? No idea how to use their magic creatively."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 168):

Ales was bored and he was going to show off.  He began to quietly recite the words to a spell he knew very well.  It was the first one he had learned on his own, after his parents had been killed and had saved him many times.

A few seconds later, Ales was no longer there, but a busty female barmaid he had spent the previous nights chatting with at length.

"Oh, I'm sure there's nothing mundane about you."  Ales added a swishing of the hips, the way he had seen her do in order to gain additional tips.

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 171):

"hahaha very handy...who's she? friend of yours?"

"Doesn't changing form like that chafe your armor?" Jin asked.

In reply to Jin (msg # 173):

*guffaw*

In reply to Iskander (msg # 172):

"This was a barmaid I spent chatting with for the last few nights so I could get her mannerisms down.  Outside of someone disbelieving the illusion, say the barmaid and I  showing up at the same time at the same place, it would be hard for anyone not to think I was the lovely wench."

[in Ales's voice: 'Say Hello Pamela']

[in barmaid's voice: 'Hello Pamela.']

[to Jin:] "It doesn't chafe my armor because I am only changing the way light is reflected into the eyes of the person I'm trying to fool.  Underneath, it's still the same creepy, crusty old wizard with a hard-on for burning things down."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 01:12, Tue 02 Feb 2016.

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 175):

"creepy, crusty, and hard-on, should ne'er be used in the same sentance."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 176):

"Sorry", Ales said, returning to his natural appearance and cheeks reddened. "It was a joke in Shevnian.  I see it lost a bit in translation."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 176):

Iskander let out a few chuckles and cleared his throat. "hmmm..well, it looks like they're boarding. hopefully, everything keeps going along without any trouble."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 178):

Miko and Furawa have gone below decks, leaving Chou and Lee uptop with Airis

In the meantime, Ales grabbed a piece of wood and a small knife from his pack.  He began to whittle the piece of wood, doing anything he could to take his mind off this mind-numbing boredom they were calling a stakeout.

"So, what would you like me to carve, Iskander?", he jovially asked.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 179):

Iskander casually observed the ships deck. " oh, you have some skill with woodwork?"

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 180):

With Miko below decks, it would be mere moments before the guest was to depart his vessel. Over by he scene of the fight, the bluecloaks are all occupied  with the fallen priest.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 181):

"Some.  It helps me relax if I'm not having a great day working on my spells.  You start with this blank canvas, and then you wind up with this little piece of art when you're done."

He continued to carve, slowly chipping away at the piece of wood.

"Put your toys away. It's almost time to go." Jin wondered if Ales seriously thought he'd have time to whittle in the time it took the others to get on the boat, present the letter to their target, and return.

In reply to Jin (msg # 184):

Ales put his "toys" away, hoping Jin was indeed right.

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 185):

"The old man must have alot of stuff...." Iskander leaned againt the wall, arms folded.

"They've only been on board for about a minute," Jin said. "You boys need to learn some gods-damned patience is what you need to do. Give yourself a heart attack you don't learn to relax."

In reply to Jin (msg # 187):

Iskander sort of half-smiled in silent reply

"Seriously, what's wrong with you guys?" Jin asked. "You never done anything like this before? You haven't, it's okay. Better, even. Means you got an excuse to be unprofessional."

In reply to Jin (msg # 189):

Secure in his experience and skill, Iskander felt no need to say anything as he kept watching the figures on deck. the healer and the odd-one seemed to be having a conversation from a ways apart.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 15:12, Sat 06 Feb 2016.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 190):

The servant and Furawa are back on deck. He is looking about in an irritated manner.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 191):
"Well.. i see them now. why do they tarry?" He continued to watch the ship.

"Maybe they need a fire lit under their ass", Ales said with a smirk.  "I understand the situation is delicate, but still, we're no Ogier."

"Again, it's been a few minutes," Jin said. "But I don't know why Chou is wasting time talking to the healer. We are here on business. I hope it is not beyond their capabilities to board and disembark a ship."

In reply to Jin (msg # 194):

"we'll see... maybe he learned something that benefits our cause"

"Let us hope", Ales mumbled under his breath.  He returned to watching the boat on which the rest of his group were on.

"Relax." Jin smiled. "If they fuck up I'll murder them and dump them in the harbor. No big deal."

In reply to Jin (msg # 197):

[ to jin ] "you certainly have a blood lust... don't you?"

"Oh, I just no place no intrinsic value in life."

In reply to Jin (msg # 199):

Iskander lifts his face and his eyes can be seen for the first time, plainly. they have a pained look for a moment, then he blinks. "perhaps one day you will change your mind."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 198):

"Remind me not to get on your bad side, Jin."

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 201):

"killing is easy.. it takes strength to show restraint, when one has been trained to kill. I nearly killed a man today..it was my relief when i saw the healer mend the damage i had done. This was doubly true when i discovered the men were not true fighters, but dock workers, some with families."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 19:20, Sun 07 Feb 2016.

"Bullshit." Jin shook his head. "To understand violence is to understand the nature of humanity. Different people have different thresholds for it. We have some time, so allow me to educate you."

"Most people are good people, Iskander. You know. Nice People. This is who society tells you to be. They avoid conflict whenever possible."

"The next level are the Manipulators. Nice People are easy prey for Manipulators. Gossip. Bullying. Forming alliances. Understated threats. You know. Coercion. This is a subtle violence, but trying to get people to do what you want is violence. I shut you out of my social group because you don't act right, and that's violence."

"Next level after that are the assertive people. The people who will shut down the manipulators. We discourage direct confrontation, so assertive people make Nice People uncomfortable."

"See, each level? They think that they're the only right level. Everybody above my level is crazy. Everybody below my level is too weak to get things done. You with me so far?"

In reply to Jin (msg # 203):

"I follow you"

"Iskander, I disagree with you.  While life has intrinsic value, not all life has the same value.  A child has more value than any of those morons who attacked us on the docks.  If any of those goons had died, I would of said a prayer to Mystra and moved on."

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 205):
"I am in agreement with you there."

"After the assertive people you have the aggressive people. They yell. They scream. The Assertive people think they're crazy, but the Aggressive people see it as self-expression. That's as high up as most people deal with. Aggressive. That's as much as most people can even try to understand. They're totally unprepared for the last two levels."

"So you have Mr. Aggressive, screaming, yelling, making people cower... until someone comes up and punches him in the face. This is the assaultive level. We all use violence when pressed, Iskander, but someone at the assaultive level will find it as easy to break an arm as it is to ask someone to please stop kicking their chair. These people start barfights for fun. These people beat their wives."

"Finally, at the top of the violence scale, you have the murderous. The people for whom killing is as acceptable as yelling or slapping. It's about what spiritual barriers you have overcome, Iskander. It takes something special, something intense, to get most people to act above their comfort level. But other people live there. So before you judge me by your standards, understand that your beliefs about killing belong only to you."

"So you are right and you are wrong. Anyone can kill. You do what you must. But most people will not unless they have to." He looked back towards Chou. "For me, it would be just as easy to kill Chou as it would be to chastise him. This does not mean I will - it would cause more problems than it solved. It only means that when if it becomes the best path, there is nothing holding me back from ending someone's life. I am comfortable with killing."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:41, Sun 07 Feb 2016.

In reply to Jin (msg # 207):

"such trite things do not warrant death..."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 208):

"or more specificly, murder"

In reply to Iskander (msg # 209):

"according to your system, where do you place yourself?"

In reply to Iskander (msg # 210):

"I'll not deny some need to be put down, as one does a mad dog. It's usually plain and needs little hesitation."

"That's the point, isn't it?" Jin said. "To understand that your idea of what violence is appropriate is not universal. Imagine this. A homeless man pisses on your shoes in an alleyway. There is no one around. There will be no consequences."

"Would you ignore it or pretend it didn't happen? You are Nice."

"Would you berate him and tell him he is disgusting? You are a Manipulator."

"Would you firmly get him to stop? You are Assertive."

"Would you yell and scream and rage at him? You are Aggressive."

"Would you hit him and knock him down? You are Assaultive."

"Would you kill him and go on your way? You are murderous. That is where I stand, Iskander. It would be as easy for me to slit his throat as it would be to yell. The only thing holding me back is understanding the consequences."

"But let it be known. If it would benefit me or my master Sakemono, I would not hesitate to kill."

In reply to Jin (msg # 212):

"I suppose i would seize him and admonish him. then according to his response, i would either drop him and go my way.. or i would give him enough for a meal, and give him my shoes." Iskander paused a moment, then laughed as he imagined the scene.

In reply to Jin (msg # 212):

"I suppose i would seize him and admonish him. then according to his response, i would either drop him and go my way.. or i would give him enough for a meal, and give him my shoes." Iskander paused a moment, then laughed as he imagined the scene.

In reply to Jin (msg # 212):

"I suppose i would seize him and admonish him. then according to his response, i would either drop him and go my way.. or i would give him enough for a meal, and give him my shoes." Iskander paused a moment, then laughed as he imagined the scene.

In reply to Jin (msg # 212):

"I suppose i would seize him and admonish him. then according to his response, i would either drop him and go my way.. or i would give him enough for a meal, and give him my shoes." Iskander paused a moment, then laughed as he imagined the scene.

"Understand that to men like me, killing him would be just as reasonable."

In reply to Jin (msg # 214):

"Yes, i understand that. I suppose, i weigh the intent before i make life or death decisions."

"Because you exist at a lower level of violence, such questions are more difficult for you," Jin said. "To me, a life or death decision is as trivial as a lunch decision. Is the reward worth the risk?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:10, Sun 07 Feb 2016.

In reply to Jin (msg # 216):

Iskander nodded. It was all he could do, really.

"I am amused at such a question, Jin.  One supposes that the homeless man is fully aware of his faculties.  If he is drunk, or disturbed by the demons, is it fair to punish him for his shortcomings?  Perhaps he has been tortured by the demonness Pamoneil and no longer understands right from wrong.  Such actions change the level of response I would give the homeless bum."

He smirked.  "I am not a paladin by any stretch of the imagination, but I just don't think we should just go around killing without a reason."

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 218):

"pamoneil you say?" he looked over at Ales. "i've heard that name before whilst looking through some old tomes" He shuddered.

"Again, that is because you, personally, need a strong reason to overcome your internal resistance to killing. Not all men have such barriers.

"Men like me... we need a reason not to kill. And we are both more common and more real than your demons."

ooc: Jin has no ranks in Hidden Lore (Demons) and has not heard of Pamoneil.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:53, Sun 07 Feb 2016.

In reply to Jin (msg # 220):

OOC: The demoness pamoneil is a private joke between Iskander and I.

ooc: Ah, so in setting, it isn't real. Got it.

In reply to Jin (msg # 222):

"Here they come, now." Iskander stands away from the wall and watches as they approach the group.

In reply to Jin (msg # 222):

OOC  I wouldnt bet on that. Eno6gh people in this group have wierdness magnet as to make it so. They ar3 just lucky on their rolls and should watch they don't   say the name a third time...

After turning from the Dark One healer, Chou-Zhen takes a few longer than usual strides to come even with Lee Phuong, watching the surroundings for any sign of new trouble.  He searches the shadows under the eaves of the building until he spots Jin, Ales, and Iskander, then nods toward them.

As the group from the ship approaches the alleyway shadows, he speaks softly to Furawa-san:

"The large one with the tattoos is Jin, Daimyo Sakemoko's new enforcer.  The darker one is Iskander, while the other is Ales; they assisted Jin of their own choice when he was attacked on the docks after disembarking."

In reply to Narrator (msg # 224):

OOC: well, i'll certainly never mention the name again! yiiichhh! LOL

Jin gave Lee a head tilt. "Let's go."

Amen to that!

Ales grabbed his bag and stood at attention.  "What are your orders, O great leader?"

He was relieved they would finally get to do something.

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 229):

Iskander greets the new arrivals, bowing to the obvious dignitary, and he nods at the laden cat-folk. "Greetings."

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 228):

OOC: yeah, we really don't want a "beetle-juice" incident, so early in the game.

Yeah, that would be pretty horrible.

He nodded his head in greetings to each person as they came in.  "I hope you guys had fun.  Iskander, Jin, and I were enjoying to get to know each other.  I do think this time was very profitable to all."

He smiled an honest smile.

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 233):

Iskander remarked wryly: " Yes, we were discussing the vagaries of mercy in the sentient being."

"So, my good friends," he said, turning to Chou, Airis, and Lee, "what do you think about the limits of mercy towards sentinent beings?"

"You can talk and walk," Jin said. "Back to the palace. Move out."

In reply to Jin (msg # 236):

"Yes, let us make haste." Iskander takes up a tactical position in the group's procession as they head back toward the palace.

Giving the others time to come up with an answer, he takes up a position on the side of Airis and starts to walk towards the Palace.

Airis walks along, seeming to be constantly on alert. She made sure on one was following. She made sure to look in the shadows.

As the group begins to walk back toward the palace, Chou-Zhen loosens his whip from his belt, instead carrying it in a loose coil in his left hand.  His right hand seems to be occupied with small movements, which a skilled spellcaster might recognize as practice at the gestures needed to cast various spells silently.

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 240):

"This is an acceptable escort. I seem to recollect
seeing one of you previously... the measure of mercy one has
 for the least worthy is the measure of society, says the
teacher. I am not so enlightened, and have no mercy for those
who transgress against me, save for the limits to which I am
obliged by higher authority."

In reply to Yoshimura Fuwara (msg # 241):

Iskander wondered which of them Fuwara-san was talking about. He kept an eye out for trouble, nonchalantly as they proceeded on their way.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 242):

Lee leads you back through the marketplace toward Sakemoko's
compound. The severity of his demeanor and the size of your
procession has some of the crowd clearing a path.

OOC  Perception, Urban  Survival  or Streetwise  rolls please

Jin swaggers along, glaring at everyone as if daring them to make a move.

In reply to Jin (msg # 244):

Jincatches a cinder in his eye, and pauses to wipe it away without breaking  step.

In reply to Lee Phuong (msg # 243):

OOC: critically failed a streetwise roll

In reply to Iskander (msg # 246):

Iskander bumps into a largish fellow oversreeing a quiet
 exchange of packages, causing him to get a cold stare while the sound  of steel sliding on steel underscores  the glare.

Jin, meanwhile, has stepped in a pile of excrement.

Jin's eyes dart to the man Iskander bumped. "Hey. Asshole. I just stepped in shit. Mind your own business or I'll clean it up with your face."

In reply to Narrator (msg # 247):

"Excuse us, we're in a hurry. I didn't mean for a collision."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 249):

He looked at Jin's shoes and covered his face with his hand a moment in exasperation. "we can't go into the palace like this, it would be an insult. Perhaps we can find a shine-boy..." He frowned.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 21:31, Tue 09 Feb 2016.

Jin pointed at the man he bumped. "Here's your shine-boy. Go get your box, shine-boy."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 250):

Wide eyed, the heavily  laden servant bows to the men whose transaction was interrupted, and softly calls out "Boy" in Sahudese.

In reply to Jin (msg # 251):

OOC: i was waiting for the good fellas referance! xD
This message was last edited by the player at 21:44, Tue 09 Feb 2016.

In reply to Miko (msg # 252):

A young man gets up from behind one of the stalls, bows to the thug, to Miko and to the rest of your group, and opens his box to remove a few rags and a brush.

In reply to Yin Misohara (msg # 254):

Iskander looked on.

Jin waved the boy off. "No time for such things. We must complete our task."

In reply to Jin (msg # 256):

[to Jin] "I don't think you'd make a good impression before your new employer with such a....pungency about your person. Save face, and spare the moment?"

This message was deleted by the player at 22:58, Tue 09 Feb 2016.

"Or I take my boots off instead of tramping around inside the house with my shoes on like a gods-damned savage.

"But no. Getting Lee to our destination safely is more important than shit on my shoes."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:03, Tue 09 Feb 2016.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 257):

"Boy, i'll give you a peice of silver if you can work quickly. we're off to see Lord Sakemoko!" He took a gleaming peice of silver from his shirt and held it in his hand.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 260):

He tucked it back inside his pouch. "Very well."

"Kindly refrain from telling everyone we meet on whose business we're on. Or have you forgotten the ruckus at the docks?"

In reply to Jin (msg # 262):

"look at the size of our group? I doubt anyone would attack us here and now.. and besides.. it's just a boy. I will use discretion, as you say, however."

In reply to Iskander (msg # 263):

"loose lips, sink ships.."

Jin smiles. "We'll make a useful retainer out of you yet. Rule one. Be patient. Rule two. Be discrete. You can be patient and discrete, you're half-way to being a professional."

In reply to Jin (msg # 265):

"Sage advice. I would like to be employed regularly, indeed."

"Reputation is everything, then. Be known as someone who can be counted on to get the job done. Whatever that job is."

In reply to Jin (msg # 267):

"Yes, especially with the guild... this would no doubt help me in advancing within."

Airis stands back and just looks around.

Chou-Zhen listens quietly to the exchanges with the other folk in the street, and to Jin and Iskander's by-play.

OOC: Passed Perception check.

Ales continued on, keeping a sharp lookout for trouble.  When Iskander crashed into the thug and Jin stepped into the excrement, he had to bite his tongue to keep himself from laughing.  Now was not the time to start a fight amongst the group.

"Perhaps I could burn the offending crap off his shoes", he offered.

Privately, he was glad he was not the one having the bad day.

"I hate to think what sheltered lives you live in where stepping in shit is even notable. Look at the streets. Look at the muck we're all walking in. Tell me what you think the citizens of Northport do with their chamber pots."

In reply to Jin (msg # 272):

"shit happens"

"Jin, calm down.  You're having a hernia over shit; it would be best to save it for a bunch of deserving goons."

He looked ahead briefly, trying to see any potential obstacles.

"Look, I'm not naïve to what we're stepping in.  That's why I clean these boots every night."

"Remember that thing I told you about how I don't speak Aralaise very well and might mistake your words for insults and murder you?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:32, Wed 10 Feb 2016.

"I'm not wanting you to murder me", he said calmly, "I just want you to remember I'm your ally and just looking out for you.  Or at least trying to..."

"Just making sure you remember." Jin grinned. "The value of your life is your worth to Sakemono. That is my morality."

Ales palmed the grip of his scimitar, about to draw it on Jin.  But then he thought better of it for the moment.

"Foolishness begets folly", Master Jin. "I hope you remember that."

Jin's eyes flickered to Ales's scimitar. "You want to test your steel against my strength? Then meet me in Sakemono's gardens after we escort Mr. Phuong. Until we get back, you pretend to have some self-control."

"No need. I am not here to kill or challenge you.  If I was, we would be here fighting to the death", Ales replied.  "As it is, you should be the one practicing self control, always taking everything as a challenge to you."

With that, he turned to Airis.  "How have you been, dear?"

"Ales, if I thought you were reckless enough to want to fight now, in the middle of a job, I'd have already killed you when you weren't looking. You want to fight me, we can fight after we've finished escorting Lee. If I think you need to die for the good of my Master, there won't be a fight. I'll just kill you."

In reply to Jin (msg # 281):

Iskander looked at the others, outside the two's exchange, then back at the two men. "Jin may seem mercenary and cold blooded at times, but that's an enforcers job. no need to take it personaly, Ales.."

He ignored Jin, having said all he felt that needed to be said.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 282):

"I can tell our friend is honorable"

In reply to Iskander (msg # 284):

Ales gave a small snort, but otherwise continued to ignore Jin.

In reply to Iskander (msg # 284):

OOC: a duel in the gardens!

OOC: I'm not dying or getting injured just because you want me to, Iskander.  While I'm not fond of Jin, I'm also not out to wish him harm either.

As Chou-Zhen walks along listening to Jin, Ales, and Iskander, his head-tail moves a little from side to side.  It's hard to tell whether it's due to the motion of his walk, or more than that.

Softly, in Sahudese with a peculiar accent, he speaks to Furawa-san:

"Furawa-san, I must apologize for these men.  They may be competent, even talented, but they are clearly neither tactful nor discreet.  I hope you will not see them as a reflection on the daimyo; Jin arrived on the same ship you did, and I have heard that he was highly recommended, while Ales and Iskander joined him on the docks when he was attacked and were not previously in Lord Sakemoko's service."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 288):

"When Iskander heard his name spoken, he bowed toward Fuwara-san, to underscore the mention."

Jin spoke in turn to Chou, in the same language. "If you would suggest that I bring anything but honor upon the master, I would take umbrage. You do not want me to take umbrage."

In reply to Jin (msg # 290):

He replies in Sahudese.
"I observed your activity dockside, Jin-san. I was
on he deck 5aking the air."

"It was a distraction," Jin said, still in Sahudeese. "One of the laborers admitted they'd been paid to cause problems. I observed several men escaping with a package during the confusion, but they were gone before I could reach them."

In reply to Jin (msg # 292):

"That is a matter to discuss   with your master."

"We shall be there soon."

Airis quickens her pace and get up into the group of men and speaks softly. "Gentlemen, be alert. I have seen people moving on the rooftops, I fear there maybe an ambush soon"

"Let them come. Let them die." Jin unslung the tetsubo from his shoulders, instead carrying it like a weapon.

In reply to Jin (msg # 296):

Iskander put his hands upon the hilts of both his weapons and scanned the rooftops around them.

Airis does move up by Chou-Zhen to protect him if he needs it.

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 298):

Iskander positioned himself nearer to Fuwara-san, as to prevent a flanking attack from his left side.

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 298):

"I humbly suggest that we enter this structure here, Apu No's people like to use poisoned arrows. This
building is friendly to us, and has a subterranean access."

Jin stood alongside the door, eyes scanning the rooftops. "Go. Everybody in. Quickly."

In reply to Jin (msg # 301):

Lee displays Sakemoko's chop to the storekeeper, who moves immediately  to open a door to a flight of stairs down.

In reply to Lee Phuong (msg # 302):

Iskander follows suit.

Airis stands by the door, waiting for the others to enter as she looks up at the roofs. She keeps her hands ready.

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 304):

An arrow thuds against the dorsill beside Airis.

Airis grabs the arrow by the end and pulls it out of the door sill and disappears though the door. "We have ninja on the roofs, I would suggest moving quickly"

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 306):

Iskander allows the frailer (appearing) others file past him, then follows after.

Ales follows the group down into the building and down into the subtererran areas.  As he descended into the depths, he got a brilliant idea.

He called out to Iskander, "Has all of our party made it through safely?"

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 308):

"I think those arrows have made most of the others go on ahead!" Iskander ran towards the passage. "Time for an illusion, perhaps, wizard?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:28, Thu 11 Feb 2016.

When all the others are inside, and only then, Jin heads down as well.

"Oh, I have something up my sleeve for such an occasion", he said, nodding.

Ales began to enchant the words for a mystical fog.  Soon, the area was full of a greyish mist.

With the first of his tricks accomplished, he went and caught up with the others.

(OOC: Successfully cast MYSTIC Mist.)

ooc: Where are you casting this? Down in the tunnels? In the shop? In the streets above? And how big an area?

In reply to Jin (msg # 312):

OOC: I am casting it down below the surface of the street, at the bottom of the stairs at the beginning of the passage.  I mean it to distract and confuse our persuing assailants and block the passage as we escape.  Hence, why I asked if we were all through.

ooc: Okay cool.

Just outside the mist on the tunnel side, Chou-Zhen nods at Ales.

"That was well done.  Now, let us finish the surprise."

He transfers his whip to his right hand, letting the lash fall free, then makes a quick but complex gesture with his left, bringing into that hand a softly crackling blue-white arc that resembles a whip made of lightning.


Once the lightning whip is ready, he twitches the leather whip to ready it.

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 315):

You are in a basement, with the door to the stairs blocked by
 mystic mist.
The area is dimly illuminated by the bluish crackle of
 Chou-Zhen's lightning whip, and by the dull red glow of a lantern in the distance. You can hear furniture   moving above.

"The shopkeeper will buy us time. Lee, you said there was a tunnel?"

"Likely toward that lantern."  Chou-Zhen nods in the direction of the red lamp.  "I can darken the opening after we pass, so that neither we nor the light will be visible from here, but I cannot mask the sound of our movements."

"Then let speed hide us. Make haste, and let us not squander the lead we have."

While waiting to be sure everyone has passed into the corridor leading to the red lantern, Chou-Zhen coils his leather whip and hangs it loosely around his neck to free a hand.  Once inside the passage, he turns and gestures, producing a column of opaque blackness just large enough to fill the opening, but not protrude into the basement room.

As soon as the darkness is complete, he turns and follows the others toward the red light, allowing the lightning whip to die out and transferring the coiled whip back to his belt.

"Concealing things in darkness only help the ninja, we must move quickly" she stops and waits, listening and waiting to see if anyone is following. She hides in the darkness

Jin kept close to Yoshimura Fuwara, ushering him along as fast as he could go. No consideration was given for those who could not keep up, due to being slowed by spellcasting or stealth. They were not his assignment.

Nothing mattered but escorting Fuwara.

In reply to Jin (msg # 322):

Iskander followed after the group quickly.

Having spent barely two heartbeats casting the spell, Chou-Zhen is only steps behind Jin.

As they were running down the passageway, Ales stopped for a second and began to chant a second spell.  He smiled at the thought of causing his pursuers even more confusion.

"Enjoy."

As he finished the spell, suddenly the hallway became an echo chamber, disguising the sounds of their further exploits temporarily.

He quickly hurried to make sure he caught up with the group.

(OOC: Passed Casting Sound.  Barely.)

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 325):

The pasageway is barely a yard wide, and turns sharply,
 following  a line of dim lanterns. There is a heavy miasma of
 opium smoke and sweat.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:32, Fri 12 Feb 2016.

"There is an opium den near here; the ninja will surely know of it and where its other exits are; likely everyone in the neighborhood knows it."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 327):

"This appears to be secret...hopefully, it remains so, long enough or us to escape."

"Be prepared, but keep moving."

In reply to Jin (msg # 329):

Iskander drew his Sai, perfectly suited for tight quarters fighting.

Chou-Zhen re-summons his lightning whip, choosing a shorter form only a single yard long this time.

PM

Ales followed along quietly, hoping they could escape quickly.

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 333):

The tight passage is very dimly lit, and there seem to be
alcoves opening to the sides up ahead.

Airis can hear noise above her, like furniture being moved again and some shouting.

Quickly counting heads, Chou-Zhen realizes Airis isn't with the rest of the group.  Knowing Jin won't slow for stragglers, he keeps keeps part of his attention behind him, waiting for the sounds of pursuit or the feeling that his darkness spell requires maintenance.  Without pausing, he touches the wall a few yards past where the passage bends, speaks a few words, and a small spot glows with heatless light as bright as a candle, but much whiter than the lantern at the corner.

Disquieted by the lack of pursuit by the enemies and fearing a potential ambush, Ales stopped for a second.  He closed his eyes and reached into his magical senses, trying to gain insight on his pursuers.

(OOC: Successfully cast Sense Foes.)

Jin keeps on keeping on, tetsubo held in a defensive grip suitable for bashing in tight confines.

In reply to Jin (msg # 337):

Iskander keeps moving along, keeping ears and eyes open.

Airis hears the noise above and moves down the hall to catch up with the others. She thought if she could stop one, it might slow down the others.

In reply to Airis Moonshadow (msg # 339):

Although those in front cannot see Chou-Zhen's light spell,
those passing it can see  into one of the alcoves, which has a screen separating it from the hall the opium funk is
stronger, and there is faint  movement  behind the screen.

Airis is a few paces behind the others.
Jin's clyb it at the ready for a thrust

Keeping his lightning whip ready, Chou-Zhen stays with the group and dismisses his light spell once Airis has passed it.  Watching for the last alcove along this part of the tunnel, he creates another pillar of darkness behind the last member of the group, once again closing off the tunnel to vision.  Once this is done, he quietly hurries Airis along to stay with the group.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:27, Sun 14 Feb 2016.

As Airis gets close to the screen with the movement, she peeks from the side to see if the movement is a person coming though or just doing something in the other room.

Jin hustles his charge past the alcove, turning to face it as he passes, making sure that the person he's assigned to protect is safe behind him.

He doesn't stop or wait for the spellcasters, though. Every second they spend casting is another five or six yards Jin pulls ahead of them.

In reply to Jin (msg # 343):

The movement beyond the screen sounds sluggish, and is accompanied   by a cough.

Ahead, there appears to be an intersection, with three other entrances.

Jin books it, keeping his charge as protected as he can manage.

Airis just continues down the hall, staying to the rear of the group.

Chou-Zhen keeps up as best he can -- Jin is faster, but Furawa-san may not be.  He stays alert while he walks, even at the possible cost of falling further behind, and maintains his lightning whip and, when needed, his darkness spells.

Afraid of being caught in an ambush, Ales tried to cast Watchdog behind him.  Perhaps, because of his haste, or because of the creeping exhaustion, his spell fizzled out in the miasma of fogs, mists, and darkened areas.

(OOC: Failed to cast Watchdog by one point.  Grr....)

He hurried to catch up with the group, or at least Chou.  He leaned over towards Chou and whispered in his ear, "I think we are being set up for an ambush.  The foes are both behind us and above us.  I hope we can prevent Jin from leading our dignitary right into a death trap."

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 348):

Whispering back to Ales -- and oddly, not sounding the least winded, despite apparently walking as briskly as possible:

"I don't believe we can prevent Jin from doing anything.  All we can do is try to be close enough to save Furawa-san, and have enough energy left.  I wish I'd thought to buy a draught of paut, even the blue stuff.  I can't recover my power at this pace."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 349):

Listening to the reality of the Chou's words, he found himself nodding in reluctant agreement.  Ales leaned back over and whispered back, "How much energy would you need to cast what you would like?  I still have a little energy left I could lend you possibly."

Still in a whisper to Ales:

"I won't know what I need, until I need it.  I have a small power item, but I gave some energy to that healer on the docks.  I hope I don't wish for it back before we reach the palace, though I was able to recover a small amount while Furawa-san's things were packed.  I still have close to three draughts of paut equivalent to work with.  Probably best you keep your own for your needs; you know spells I don't, and we may need yours as much as mine before we arrive.

"Still, I can do many things without spending my own energy.  This," he gestures with the lightning whip, "I can maintain as long as I can stay awake, and I can keep the two small darkness spells I've left behind us just as long.  I can cast a small fireball or lightning without taxing myself, as well.  The real question is whether I'll need something larger."

In reply to Chou-Zhen Mou (msg # 351):

Ales nodded.  "Let us hope we are not taxed beyond our limits keeping our dignitary safe until he meets with Sakemoko."

He headed up towards the troubling set of separating alcoves.  He sensed that they were being led into a trap as strongly as he could smell the miasma of opium fumes.

He closed his eyes and reached into his mystical sight.

(Successfully cast Sense Danger.)

In reply to Ales Konstantin (msg # 352):

You arrive  at the four way intersection, with Lee in the
lead. The space is larger, about three yards square, and a lantern hangs from a ceiling beam. The miasma of opium smoke
is heavier here.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:15, Thu 18 Feb 2016.