This thread combines The Road to Kakou and The Streets of Kakou.  All active PCs from either thread may post here.

The acolyte beckons for you to follow him through the door which reveals a modest but immaculately cultured garden courtyard. It almost appears as if the Winter Sect Temple was built around this natural scene in an effort to not disturb its tranquil setting. You know stand upon a wooden plank porch that follows around the edge of the scene in a "n" shape.  The planks of the porch are richly polished and smooth; however, it is the simplicity of the construction and not any gaudy decoration or ornate carvings that make it beautiful.

As you come to the far side of the "n" shaped porch, the door opens for the acolyte leading you and the group enters to find themselves on the west side of a room 20' long (in front of you) but only 10' wide (left to right). A large 10' long rice-paper door takes up half of the northern wall. The room holds no decorations.



Another acolyte already in the room steps forward to help the one who lead you in finding a place to sit or to offer any he;p a guest might need before meeting the priestess.  Once everyone is seated in formal manner (or as formal as they choose to be), the servants prepare to slide open the double, rice-paper doors in the northern wall.

Kasumi ate his breakfast rice and fish with deliberate care and respect. He whispered a quiet prayer to the four winds upon completion of his meal then helped the servants clear away the bowls and accompaniments. When he received his summons to see the temple priestess Uriki-sama he bowed to the servants and followed behind them to the shoin.

The ratling’s clothing was worn and stained but he held himself with decorum and deep dedication to his calling so that he did not look out of place in the serene beauty of the temple. When he was in the hall Kasumi prostrated himself on the ground with his forehead touching the polished floor. He then awaited the arrival of the priestess.

O' remained far from comfortable throughout the meals. He spoke little and looked around a lot.
The white rice was almost more than he could handle. The crippled monk Sozen lived off of alms from the villagers and none of them had ever had the luxury of white rice high up in the mountain valley with no name.
O' found the treat to be delicious. The steam alone seemed enough to swallow him whole. He had many times before eaten fish, but never so prettily cooked with soy sauce and ginger. O' was particularly self conscious about his table manners, or complete lack therefore of.
He ate what was presented to him and was careful not to take too much.
This feast was repeated again at breakfast, and finally O' was almost relieved to be summoned. He gathered up Tecchan, his only posession and followed, careful not to bump his head against the doorway.

Daikihina reveals cultured raising even though not having spoken about it by seating her self in the proper way and fashion. Paying attention to the small details and intricacies of ceremonies surrounding the event going trough them with tranquil smooth grace and perfect silence.

The event is something of an experience for her as well as it has been a long time since she has lived and acted as this. But she smiles softly as she realiseds it is as much part of her as her martial arts are.

The morning revealed Zheng-Ze to once again have the appearance of the slender, weak-framed human male with the pronounced overbite. With his gregarious attitude and high-energy level, he was a definite contrast to the cautious half-ogre. The fact that the wu jen was more than happy to try and strike up conversations as he sat next to O' helped accentuate their differences.

As they left the guest room, and even after they were seated in the receiving room, Zheng-ze was still whispering to those who would listen.
_{"So, it's the same priestess as yesterday or a different one?"
Do you think there's a reward? I'm not really interested in funds, maybe some privilages? I'm sure they have an extensive library.
Last night she mentioned others, 'two pathways' I think. Do you guess those nezumi are them?"....}
This message was last edited by the player at 22:02, Thu 06 Jan 2011.

Kuuhaku enjoyed the pleasant company and good food for both meals.  There would be much grim business to discuss and carry out when the time came.  He noted the presence of the second group at the gathering place, commenting to himself, "Good, more souls dedicated to good...or perhaps altruistic enough to accept reward for doing good at least."  The monk bowed politely to the others but chose to remain standing towards the back.

Smirking to the other group of well-armed invididuals upon entering, the young traveler spends a considerable amount of time sizing Kuuhaku up. He nods to himself, then seems to wander off visually, appearing to be thinking of something. The sliding doors provide him with a distraction from that reflective gaze, and he looks to see who steps through. Hearing the human male ask his questions, the man simply smirks, and says "Well, there isn't much sense in wondering about that which very well may be apparent shortly, is there?"

The acolytes get everyone seated, and the two servants on either side of the double rice-paper doors slide them fully open to reveal a combination of three rectangular rooms, all similar to the one you are in now. The sliding doors of each have been opened to create one large room (approx 20' wide by 55' long).

Approximately 20' from your position is the end of the first section. The next area is a step higher and is approximately 15' x20' while the final area---the jodan---is another step higher and is about 10' x 20'. In the final section sit two figures to the left and right of an honored place in the center of the jodan.  In that spot, a large, sky-blue sitting cushion remains empty. A small "armrest table" that is barely 8" wide and about 18" long and only about 10" high is next to the empty sky-blue cushion.

To the right (your left) of the jodan's honored empty seat, sits the beautiful, apparently human, and perhaps about 30 year-old shugenja from the night before. She wears her immaculate, snow-white robe. Her jet black is pulled back in a different (but still elaborate) braiding than last night. Once again it seems to enhance the beauty of her naturally pale complexion. She sits silently in a formal posture as her gaze quickly moves from person to person.


To the left (your right) of the jodan's center seat is an apparently human, dark-skinned male wearing the formal, ceremonial robes of a sohei. The robe barely seems able to contain the man's massive shoulders and wide chest. His head is shaved smooth, except for a thick but tightly-braided ponytail that extends from the back of his head and is drapped across his right shoulder. A sheathed jian (longsword) lay on the floor near his right thigh.

The servant who led you along the porch touches his forehead to the floor and announces your names:
"Kasumi, your young brother, defender of Renshu Kiro
Kuuhaku,  defender of Renshu Kiro
Daikihina, defender of Renshu Kiro
Ishikawa Chizuru, defender of the common children along the Imperial Road
Tenba Ichiro, defender of the common children along the Imperial Road
Zheng-Ze, defender of the common children along the Imperial Road
O, defender of the common children along the Imperial Road."

The hyperactive Wu Jen quiet downs under the formality of the room, although his facial muscles seem to resent the quiet as they occasional twitch or crinkle up his nose in quick double-sniff as if testing the air.

As his name is called Zheng-Ze bows deeply and respectfully defender of children he thinks to himself, well, not the title I expected...but it all starts somewhere I suppose.

O' likewise bows his head to the floor with surprising flexibility. When his head comes up from the bow, he wears a grin both slightly disturbing for those jagged half-ogre teeth and just slightly less bright than a sunny day.

Kuuhaku gives a polite bow to their hosts.  His expression is mostly neutral, but does betray interest.  He considers the title bestowed upon the other group mentally, concluding that it is unsurprising that intertwined events took place in different areas.

Daikihina looks at the unknown faces, but remains stately a bit cool and silent. She barely even moves past the occasional breath the faint blink of an eye here and there. She acknowledges when her name is called but noting more.

Chizuru hastily bows when her name is called, anxious not to offend her hostess.

Kasumi remained prostrate and awaited instruction from the priestess and her entourage.

Arching a brow at being considered the defender of anything, Ichiro shrugs when his name is called, neither confirming nor denying the title in the end. Seemingly out of nervous habit, he takes out a wrapped rice ball and eats it in the silence.

What seems like a long silence fills the room, but a word is spoken and the acolyte ushers the group out of the first "room" to the second, risen area. Now, only 15' away from the jodan area of this reception area, you can see that the sky blue tones of the Winter Sect seal is very similar to the natural color of her eyes---quite uncommon for Humans of the Orient.

With everyone seated formally again, you realize her stern gaze has been continuously studying each of you. She gives a barely perceptible nod to the sohei on her right and then speaks. In contrast to her piercing eyes, her voice is full of grace and diplomacy:

"Some do not believe in the Order of Celestial Bureaucracy. Some do not see the path that the Kami [spirits] illuminate for us. And yet sometimes, even the faithful are amazed when such things occur just as the universe has whispered to us..."

The shugenja bows her head and pauses for a moment...and then continues.
"Welcome to each of you. I am Uriki Kunijenka, second priestess of The Winter Sect Temple of Kakou.

"For the most part, the city is orderly and life is prosperous in Kakou. However, recently there have been some disappearances and robberies. People taken from their homes and never heard  from; their portable valuables stolen. Although unnerving, such things are the responsibility of the town guard, and, to be honest, not our direct concern. Until three nights ago when four children were taken from the Illuminated Way Orphanage.

"I have sought the guidance of the Kami and at their direction the Winter Sect Temple has vowed we shall find the missing children and bring the kidnappers to justice. The Kami have whispered to me that defenders would come. And here you are."
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:05, Wed 12 Jan 2011.

O' is absorbing these words carefully, as he tends to do. Not being actually stupid, merely ignorant, he tries to piece together the parts.
If only he knew that to everyone else he looked distinctly slack jawed...

Kasumi was aware of the problems that affected the city. He felt a sense of purpose when Uriki Kunijenka announced that the spirits had spoke of him and the others and the good deed they would perform. The small shugenja bowed three times and then straighten “it will be my honour to serve the Winter Sect Temple as a defender of the missing children” he spoke in a quiet but steady voice. Kasumi was small and in body weak but his own spirit was strong which lent him great power as was clear in the clarity of his words.

Daikihina bowed her head but did not speak, her group had already been spoken for and there was no need to re swear things she was already going to do. Gaining more support did not change that.

Pausing a moment to contemplate, utilizing his time wisely to chew his rice and not speak with a mouthful, the robed man calls out "Missing children, eh? Surely some idiotic brute that deserves a good thrashing would be in charge of such an operation. Consider me in."

The wu jen again bows low to the floor. Once acknowledged, he speaks rapidly, Uriki-sama, as you know, some of us are strangers to Kakou. What can be shared about the orphanage?  Is it affliated with the temple? Any known connections amongst the kidnapped children?"

The shugenja's satisfaction brings a warmth to her stern eyes and perhaps even the faintest line of a smile at Ichiro-san's brash answer, but both fade slightly at the wu jen's rapid questions.  Yet, thankfully, when she answers, no tone of displeasure is evident in her voice.

"You have a curious mind, Elemental Master. That is good." The priestess gives a slight nod to one of the acolytes who then pulls a finger-sized scroll case from the interior of his sleeve and with much respect gives it to Uriki Kunijenka.  She sets it on the small, forearm-sized table to her immediate right.

"The Winter Sect Temple has no formal connections with the Orphanage of the Illuminated Way.  However, such children often have much to seek for within their lives, and therefore, several of our shugenja spent time there as children themselves.

"The orphanage has two common bedchambers on the second floor--divided by gender, of course. The children are locked into their rooms at night for safety and to prevent any midnight mischief. The orphanage has barred windows on the dormitory level and excellent locks throughout the building. Two boys and two girls were taken from each room. None of the other children, and none of the resident staff saw or heard anything unusual.

"Four children were taken.  Their names were Migoto, Ukiyo, Heiki, and Houbi. Other than being at the orphanage, the staff knows of no connections between them."
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:31, Thu 13 Jan 2011.

“I suggest we begin our investigation at the orphanage and then go from there where the fours winds take us until we find the children” humbly Kasumi lay out his plan and waited for the others to respond.

Assuming that it was now time for people to talk, O' asked a characteristically tactless question of his own.

Maybe they just left. Do we know they was taken?

It occurred to O' after he had said this that questioning the fundamental premise of an authority figure in a town where he was still "an escaped slave" might be profoundly asinine. To cover for this, he smiled inanely.

"That is a possibility, but highly unlikely (given the events going on here).  It's also possible that they left 'of their own will' though it was not their will; which is to say they were under some sort of mind control," the rat monk muses in response to O's comment.  Looking to their host he asks, "Is there anything more you have to offer us or should we begin right away."  His tone is polite, suggesting he meant wisdom or insight into the situation rather than physical help in the form of personnel or gear.

Chizuru fidgeted on the cushion, already anxious to get moving.  She couldn't believe her good fortune in finding a person in need so quickly, and not just a person, but the Winter Temple Sect and four little children!

"Do we have any leads we can follow?  Maybe the sight of a suspicious fellow?"

Daikihina taught on it but going back to the scene of the abduction would be a good idea to get an idea of what could have happened. "Have there been questions asked of the locals?" her voice was that of a slight woman fine and slightly high pitched but not unpleasant.

"It would seem to me any violent taking would have caused a stir even with relatively young children, unless magic was involved" she glanced at those at the table who had the air of magery about there persons

The Shugenja's answer to O's question is a slight smile and silence...

Luckily, the others fill the emptiness with other questions and suggestions.



Uriki Kunijenka nods in agreement, "Indeed. Although we have no evidence as of yet, I strongly believe that supernatural or arcane methods must have been employed. The locals give us no help---not out of fear, but just as with the other disappearances, no one seems to know, hear, or have seen anything. However, if our enemy utilized unearthly powers, so shall we."

The priestess takes a breath that seems to fill her with determination, rather than just simple air, and then hands the small, finger-sized scroll case to an acolyte who kneels before Kasumi and presents it to him with a bow. "Using one of the temple's ancestral items, I prayed deeply last night with the Kami [spirits]. This small scroll case contains a small ofuda [prayer scroll] which is the answer the Kami sent me.  My prayerful question unto them was 'Where are the children abducted from the Orphanage of the Illuminated Way?'
As is the way of the Spirit Realm, the answer from them is both clear and cryptic. It says:

The locks are key to finding them.
Look beyound the curtain, below the cauldron.
Beware the doors with teeth.
Descend into the malachite hold.
Half a man binds them, but not for long.

"It says 'the locks are key,' so yes, loyal Kasumi-san," Uriki-sama makes a reference to the Nezumi's suggestion to start at the orphanage, "it is my belief that if we can figure out how the orphanage locks were overcome, then we have a strong start."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:13, Mon 17 Jan 2011.

Honoured by the responsibility bestowed upon him Kasumi accepted the small scroll case reverently. He straightened his back and was dignified in his response “I will bear this scroll and will guard it with my life until we gain knowledge of all the secrets held within” he then carefully stowed the scroll in the bag slung at this waist and prepared to leave so that he could fulfil the oath he had taken.

O' observed the situation carefully. He picked up that his role here was not to mind-eat the problem, which was okay with him. He didn't know this valley like he knew the valley with no name that he had come from.
O' thought he might be able to add more when they arrived at the orphanage. He resolved to look for the things that others would not look for, like snakes.
O' hates snakes!

"Daikihina-san, it would be easy for even the most mundane of Wu Jen to cause many children to fall into a deep slumber--if my lessons are correct. I see of no other way they accomplished such." says Zheng-Ze respectfully. "Unless they were ninja" he adds with sudden enthusiasim.





"Whomever holds the keys to the Orphanage..well, umm, they, hold the keys." The wu jen tries but fails to keep a buck-toothed grin from slowly spreads across his face.  He glances at the massive O' and gives a slight shrug of his shoulders (yeah...you and me both, eh?) before suddenly staring intently at the mat directly in front of him. "We should definitely start there." he quickly adds.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:16, Mon 17 Jan 2011.

The priestess looks to her right at the muscular sohei who has been as silent and still as stone. "Do you have anything to add, my brother?"
This message was last edited by the player at 06:49, Tue 18 Jan 2011.

The man gives a quick acknowledgment and then claps his hands together in a commanding smack. A wall panel near him slides open and another acolyte enters carrying a small serving tray. Upon the tray are 7 vials. The sohei speaks with a deep and resonant voice, "As a measure of good faith, the sohei of the Winter Sect Temple bestows a gift to each of you."

The acolyte polite presents a vial to each of you as the sohei speaks. The vials are small ceramic containers with a cork stopper. Painted in sky-blue on each one is the symbol of the Winter Sect temple. "These vials contain a divine elixir; each is capable of healing moderate injuries. Use them as you wish, but we hope it is in pursuit of the missing children and their captors." He gives a slight bow towards the group.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:51, Tue 18 Jan 2011.

Uriki Shugenja smiles warmly at the sohei's benevolent gift, and then adds, "The Temple has already posted a reward of 2,500gp for the safe return of the children and for bringing the captors to justice. This will also be yours, of course, if you are successful."

Kuuhaku takes the potion and places it in one of the potion slots on his shoulder belt, giving a bow of thanks as he does so.  He is eager to start, but waits for the others to be ready as well.

Kasumi received the vial of divine elixir and packed it his bag alongside the scroll that Uriki had given him. Companionably he then moved closer to the other Nezumi who also appeared to be ready to go. He offered Kuuhaku a nod of friendship.

The brown-robed man carries out a more-traditional twice-refusal before taking one of the potions himself.

"Sounds like an inside job, to me. If it were local thugs, people would be glad to talk. If it were ninja, people would be afraid to, or they'd be dead." Scratching at the white scruff on his cheek, he adds "But someone who works there, someone with a key or access to a key, could spirit these children away. If none saw them leave the building, then chances are they're still there..or there's an exit unknown. Plenty of possibilities, one eventuality. Going there should answer a good majority of these questions."

O' waits for the others to receive their elixirs and drift away from the servant. He leans down, trying not to be threatening, and whispers.
I'm sorry, I can heal on my own. Can I get a burlap sack instead? I can't wear this in town.
The potion is surely worth more than 100 burlap sack tunics, but O' knows that he is a marked man wearing his mine slave shirt, even though it's markings have almost faded away now. Perhaps the temple can provide him with clothing that will provide some layer of protection. It would be like the brown birds in the valley that has no name, which lay their eggs in the nests of other birds. O' doesn't like those birds, but he wants to help the orphans.
Besides, then he can know more about if the temple people are really good folks.

Chizuru takes her potion, handling it gingerly.  She had only had such a potion once before, when she fell from a roof as a child, and if she concentrated she could still remember the peculiar numbness that had overcome her tongue and lips as she drank the potion, as well as the after-taste of ginger.

"Okay!  Let me get my stuff, and we'll head away!" she calls out in a singsong chant, bowing quickly to the shugenja and her new-found companions, then racing off to her room.

A burst of happiness flashes across Uriki Shugenja's face and her formal tones are replaced with true warmth, "Yes, good-hearted defender. We shall definitely find you something more...fashionable for the city.  But also keep the elixir; it may be that you can bestow it on a friend or even one of the childr--"


A quick, dismissive gesture from Uriki-sama keeps the acolytes in place as the excited young lady rushes out. However, the shugenja's stern but beautiful mask suddenly reappears. "Very well, then. Let each of you gather your things. O'-san, if you will follow Yuki," she gestures to one of the attendants, "we can meet your needs.

"He should be able to rejoin the rest of you in the Temple's main foyer in a quarter of an hour.  From there Kasumi-san can lead you to the Orphanage.

"May your mind and spirit walk as one upon a clear pathway." She gives a slight bow and the acolytes politely usher the remaining 6 of you from the room.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:18, Wed 19 Jan 2011.

Not having much to prepare himself, the brown-robed, white-haired young man sits contemplatively at the place of muster, smoking his pipe and looking off into the distance contemplatively.

On bare feet Kasumi quietly stepped out of the hall and lead the others to the main foyer. There whilst they waited for O’s return he prepared himself. He cast salt to the four winds and through the chanting of prayer he invoked the guidance of the spirits on their quest. His ritual set his mind in focus which strengthened his will and body. He was Shugenja; he strived to always keep his mind, body and spirit in perfect equilibrium.

O' grins sloppily.
Thank you!
O' followed hastily, not wanting to make people wait. So far these folks had been nicer than anyone he had ever been around, but people could turn on you sometimes for the strangest reasons.
With flexibility and quickness alarming for his size, he slips through the door without bumping his head. Or taking out one of the sliding shoji walls.

(OOC: Others may want to post about waiting or rejoining the group, please feel free to do so; however, I'm going to keep us moving forward.)

A beautiful blue-sky morning and radiant sun greet you as you leave the impressive Temple. Kasumi leads you east on Kokoyouseki-gairo (obsidian Avenue) and then onto a somewhat wandering side street downwards towards Kakou-ko [Crater Lake]. From the side street You step out onto Yougan-gairo (lava  Avenue) and head back north before finding the Orphanage of the Illuminated Way at the corner of Tourou (Lantern) Street and Yougan-gairo (Lava Avenue). More than once, O's hulking presence caused a wide-eyed commoner to step off to the side as the group passed by.


If you look at the wall in the foreground at about 5pm (if the circular wall is a clock) then just visable over the wall are two trees. To the left of the trees is a slightly "L" shaped building; that's the orphanage.
Just a reminder (mostly for the folks who live in Kakou) that additional maps and campaign info is found here:
link to a message in this game


To the north, immediately behind the orphanage, is a small group of trees and on the backside of the orphanage and across the street (Kaibun-gairo [ash, scandal, rumor Avenue]) to the west on the shores of Kakouko (Crater Lake) is a much larger grove.

Like most of Kakou, the orphanage is built of charcoal-colored stone and wood with mold-encrusted mortar. The windows on both the upper and lower levels are tightly shuttered. Lanterns, although no longer lit, hang on either side of the oaken front door. A greened, copper knocker (shaped like a fang-toothed bakemono with it's large nostrils pierced by a copper ring) is in the center of the door.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:35, Thu 20 Jan 2011.

"So, do we just..." says the Wu Jen as he nibbles on a small fruit, "...go up and..." he takes another small bite, "knock."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:04, Fri 21 Jan 2011.

Kuuhaku nodded as he commented, "Sounds about right.  I suppose the most diplomatic of us should knock and introduce our group and purpose; that might make things go a little smoother and avoid unnecessary complications."

Small and normally overlooked Kasumi led the group to the orphanage. He was surprised by the way people stepped out of his way; he soon surmised it was because of the company he kept. This revelation gave him pause once they had reached the door of the orphanage.

“Perhaps it would be best if one of us announces our arrival first and requests permission to visit. I fear that a company of this size visiting could disruption for the children and their helpers so that may need to prepare before receiving us” he explained tactfully without explicit mention of O’. The ratling did not want to frighten the children or cause them upset.

“If you could permit a moment” he small nezumi bowed to his companions then went to knock on the door gently.

"Personally, I'm glad we're in such sociable company. I apologize in advance for anything I'm going to say in here.. I'm not exactly the upper crust when it comes to the various bureaucracies of our polite society."
Looking around, he concludes:
"I'm just here to be handsome and kick things, and I'm fine with that. Much less to worry about."

O' knew very well that he was a frightening thing to look upon for children. Secretly though, he was very fond of them. They were the only people who seemed able to look past his half ogre features and deal with him, given enough time.

Zheng-ze taps O' on the forearm, "Sometimes my kind can make humans quite nervous. Would you wait across the street with me? the hengeyokai tilts his head to the shade trees behind him.

The nezumi shugenja approaches the door and knocks respectfully.

He waits....

And just when he is about to look back at the others, the clicking sounds of someone at the door can be heard.

The door opens a short space, and near the 4' tall level, reveals a strip of a wrinkled face, probably korobokuru, maybe female.  The eye flickers with suspicion and looks Kasumi up and down. "We only take human offspring." says a voice curtly, although the door does not immediately slam shut.


OOC: Kasumi please make a Diplomacy Check---if that's the conversational path you wish to persue.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:03, Fri 21 Jan 2011.

Poor and scruffy looking Kasumi surely looked not much better than a beggar. He however carried himself with diginity. He clicked his teeth and announced himself to the woman at the door “greetings, I am Kasumi. We come from the Temple of the Winter Sect. The priestess Uriki Kunijenka sent us here to investigate the disappearance of Migoto, Ukiyo, Heiki and Houbi” he then bowed and took a step back, hoping the korobokuru would allow them entry.

OOC 21:26, Today: Kasumi rolled 4 using 1d20+1. Diplomacy check.

Ooc: Ohhh, the evil dice roller.....

"Don't play know it all with me." says the elder voice with a tone of authority. "You'll have to do better than knowing some names and wearing a temple kimono you probably found in the trash heap." She grumbles something under her breath about _{"half the city visiting"}

Realising that his honest and frank approach was getting him nowhere Kasumi bowed again, scraping his head on the floor “allow me to fetch my master” he grovelled, hands pressed together in supplication. He then dashed off to others “master Ichiro Tenba come quickly and speak with the door guard” he pulled at the man’s sleeve urging him forward. Kasumi hoped that a human asking might get a better response.

Tenba reluctantly steps forward, grumbling, tamping out his pipe as he approaches the door. "Ahem, pardon, but my friend here speaks true. We have been tasked with fixing this problem. Couldn't you help us out?"

OOC: Hmm, the vials of potion we were given have the mark of our 'employers' correct...might score some points by flashing them to back up or line of reasoning (and get a second shot at the diplomatic approach...)

Kuuhaku frowns at the lack of trust the guardian of the children, but chalks it up to the times.

Chizuru rocks back and forth from one foot to the other, straining to hear the conversation between the old lady and Tenba.  She didn't want to cause a disturbance in the orphanage, but at the same time she wanted to be useful!

Quickly growing bored with waiting for the woman to open the door, she tugged on Kuuhaku's robe.

"Hey, um...Kuuhaku, right?  We don't really need everyone inside the orphanage at once - do you wanna go with me and look for clues in this area?  Maybe the kidnappers left some bootprints in the alley, so let's not dally!" she said excitedly, her tongue nearly stumbling at the end.

"Ok, that sounds like a good idea," Kuuhaku replied.  Turning to O' he said, "Chizuru-san and I are going to check the alley."  He then indicated for Chizuru to lead on.

O' watched events unroll around him like the sushi rolls that the village boys dreamt about.
He numbly agrees to follow the Hengeyokai.

Heading into the alleyway, Kuuhaku takes a glance around for anything unusual...
And probably spots nothing.
08:18, Today: Kuuhaku rolled 9 using 1d20+2. Spot, Alleyway.

Chizuru wanders up and down the alleyway, peeking under windows for obvious footprints.

OOC: Yeah, Chizuru's not any better at this.
19:51, Today: Ishikawa Chizuru rolled 4 using 1d20-1. Spot alleyway.
19:49, Today: Ishikawa Chizuru rolled 11 using 1d20. Search alleyway.

Trying to keep his disappointment hidden, the nezumi retrieves one of the vials and presents it with humility towards the eye peering out from the door, "Uriki Shugenja bestowed these as a sign of trust and faith in our mission."
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:55, Tue 25 Jan 2011.

The elderly eye beyond the gaped doorway looks intently at the vial, and the human also now standing nearby, and then back at the Nezumi. Suddenly the door slams shut---but not before Kasumi saw the glaring eye soften....

A half-moment later the door opens wide to reveal an elderly Korobokuru about 4'tall. Her face is well-lined and her hair a dull gray but the eyes are still a bright and vivid blue. She is wearing a simple, thigh-length cotton happi (robe) and pants. "Come in, come in." she says with a slight weariness in her voice that is not completely full of welcoming grace, but it is far removed from the gruff and nearly rude tone used before the door was fully opened.

"Staff room is through there," she motions with one hand toward a hallway off to the left. Another hallway continues straight ahead and the sounds of children can be heard easily enough from that direction."We been using it for all the questionings."
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:27, Tue 25 Jan 2011.

For Chizuru and Kuuhaku

The alleyway between buildings on the north side is short and empty, but at the northwest corner it opens unto a small grove of trees; chances are it serves as a bit of a play area during the semi-tropical summer.

Immediately on the west side (backside) of the orphanage is the lowest of the four major avenues that encircle the city. Across the street and sitting right next to the lake is another grove of trees (about four times larger) than the one right next to the orphanage.

The nezumi monk and human female turn their attention to the windows at the northwest corner of the building when a low, rumbling growl from behind them reaches their ears....
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:25, Tue 25 Jan 2011.

Kuuhaku whips around towards the potential threat, placing himself to protect his companion.  He takes up a defensive posture, half expecting a guard dog for the orphanage.

For Chizuru and Kuuhaku
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:01, Tue 25 Jan 2011.

"Actually, perhaps you can take us to the children at play? They may be more inclined to comfortably answer questions among peers. It is easier to spot suspicious activity this way, you see.. If not, I thank you for allowing us in."he bows deeply to the woman.

The elderly Korobokuru returns the bow respectfully, her tone is not rude but a bit of the matronly gruffness returns to her voice, "The children have had many disruptions in the past few days. It's good to know the Winter Sect is taking action; they are dedicated and loyal. But I'm not inclined to let just anyone start getting their minds a-flutter one more time." She then quickly adds, "I hope you understand, sir."

Chizuru whirls around, surprised at the noise.  'Please let it be a small dog,' she prayed to herself as she turned.

The wu jen pauses at the door and gives an excited but respectful bow. "Domo arigato"  He barely avoids interrupting the matron as she spoke to Ichiro-san. He glances quickly behind him and then moves toward the side-room she had indicated.

Private to GM

Smiling broadly, displaying white teeth, he speaks:
"Of course madame. It is far from our intent to disrupt your natural order of business. Whatever assistance you can offer is graciously accepted, however. To start, do you think that you could provide us with a list of your staff?"

Kasumi bowed respectfully to the korobokuru when she finally allowed them in. He scratched at one of his ears as she talked them.

“What can you tell us of the missing children and what do you think happened?” he enquired, sure that the staff of the orphanage must have theories of their own as to why the children had disappeared.

The korobokuru matron offers you seats around what is obviously an eating/meeting table for the adult staff. Once situated, a more polite tone is in her voice but it is easy to feel her underlying determination and dedication in regards to the children's safety. Their disappearance (and the possible lack of security for her orphanage) obviously troubles the elder korobokuru.



"I have 5 members on staff.  Each has worked with me for several years, and I must say I trust them completely.

The longest serving is Akagane, the gardner. He is originally of my same tribe, but we are not related.

Yuki is our nurse. She has such a kind touch and knows more herbs and remedies than even I do. If we receive any older children, she usually helps them adjust. They like seeing someone of their own race.

Yashi is the other human on staff. He's a great cook and can get those picky little ones to eat just about anything.

Sunnari teaches the children. Like most Spirit folk, she is so graceful and sweet but there's that....something, kind of like nobility or formality I guess, within her that makes even the most rambunctious ones want to please her.

And lastly is Houtai," and here, although all of her words have been kind, is the first sign of a small smile at the corner of the Matron's lip. "He is the janitor and generally handyman, I guess. Helps with security also, so he is feeling pretty guilty, like it's his fault.  Houtai has been here basically his whole life. Like almost all my staff, the children love him."

I'll pause so anyone can ask questions and then (after those posts, if any) move on to give her recap of the students and the night of the kidnapping.)
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:09, Tue 08 Feb 2011.

O' stands half in the door, just enough to be attached to the adventurers that have entered the building. Not one to speak first, he listens carefully, looking for anything out of the ordinary.
Quietly, he sniffs around, hoping to smell, see or hear something interesting, maybe even magikul.
O' really wishes he could read at times like this. He feels as though something important must be hidden behind the signs on the doors.

"Do they all live here? The Winter Sect Temple says entry wasn't forced. Does everyone have a key?" Although he is in human form, the hengeyokai's nose twitches as if sniffing for some secret scent.

Kasumi rubbed his hairy snout thoughtfully. If the korobokuru was to be believed they should discount any possibility that the disappearances had anything to do with the staff at the orphanage. The ratling however did not let himself be so easily swayed, he taught himself resistance and strength of mind. He must maintain his alertness.

“Did anything odd occur here before the disappearances or did any of the staff act strangely before hand?”

Although still very business-like, the Matron continues to answer questions with politeness and apparent open-ness.

Her finger strokes a few prickles of stubble on her left cheek. "I've been thinking about our routine ever since the first investigators asked me that question...but still nothing comes to mind.  Nothing out of the ordinary, no new children or visitors, no guests, Houtai noticed no one lingering around the area. Sometimes Houtai stays up through the night; usually he stays inside but sometimes he patrols outside. He's done that more in the last few days." A shadow of weariness slips across her face and then vanishes. "I honestly know of nothing unusual.  Every night I lock the front and back doors, and lock the doors to the boys' room and the girls' room upstairs. I have the only key, and there is no copy.

"Sunnai is the only one who does not live here.  We have four rooms for the staff: Yuki and myself each have a room, Houtai and Yashi share a room, and Akagane has his own room."


_{OOC: I haven't forgotten the question about recapping the info about the missing students; that'll come soon. Good questions so far, everyone.}

"Perhaps the reason this puzzle can't be put together is because someone isn't collecting all of the pieces. If you aren't allowing investigators to interview the staff or the children, I have to wonder if and how you honestly expect us to find them." says the human, seeming to choose his words carefully, but still coming across as less-than-graceful in intent.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:50, Thu 17 Feb 2011.

O's eyes widen a little bit at the effrontery of the question, but O' judges the inquiry valid and has nothing better to offer, so he stands quietly and LOOMS.

The korobokuru sits notably straighter in the chair and her chest puffs out slightly and the furrow in her brow reappears, "Yes, someone should put something together," she says with a shadow of anger "but the city watch has found nothing---these children aren't the first disappearences, just the first ones that have shocked the public outcry. But the watch has no clues, the Daimyo's investigators asked questions but I hear nothing, and now a third group comes?  It's a locked puzzle, but so far no one seems smart enough to figure out the key. You can forgive me bladesman if I don't parade the minds of my little ones out to just anyone thinking they can help."

Kasumi scratched his hairy chin, perplexed by the mystery. They still had discovered no trail to follow.

“So there is apparently no reason or suspicion for the children to go missing at all? No connections?” he shook his head “Perhaps we should begin by speaking with the other staff then discuss whether we should talk to the children.” he says diplomatically.

Perhaps sensing the nezumi's calm spirit, the Matron looks away from Ichiro-san and answers Kasumi-san, "No, we know of no connections between the four children. Their names were Migoto, Ukiyo, Heiki, and Houbi. [two girls, two boys] Migoto and Heiki have been here since infancy. Ukiyo and Houbi since their parents died. Ukiyo about 4 years ago, and Houbi 2 years ago.

"Yuki [the nurse] won't be coming in today. Yashi is around the corner in the kitchen. Akagane [gardener] is probably down below in the cellar. Sunnari [the teacher] is upstairs waking the boys after prepping the girls. Houtai...should be retur--"

She stops speaking and cocks her head slightly, "Ahh, there he is now coming in the back door." and you can hear the sound of entry. The door slams somewhat unexpectedly...
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:53, Fri 18 Feb 2011.

A figure almost darts into the small room from the adjoining kitchen "Takara-san, there were---" but stops short in the doorway upon seeing unfamiliar faces.

The apparently human male is of average height and build but looks athletic and well-toned. He wears a common, sleeveless shirt and loose, knee-length, cotton breeches with a simple rope drawstring and simple sandals. However, his most striking appearance is the simple, leather patch that covers his left eye.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:16, Sat 19 Feb 2011.

Knocking politely, Kuuhaku enters, "Ah, sorry we" (here he pauses to indicate Chizuru) "thought to check the alley way while our compatriots spoke to you.  We ran into a rather...defensive dog.  Has it always been there?"

Takara, the matronly Korobokuru, looks from the ratling and the human female who just politely slipped in...over to the man in the kitchen doorway, obviously Houtai. "Yes, go ahead, it sounded urgent.."

Houtai's whole body has noticeably tensed and his upper lip quavers slightly..."These strangers," he points at Kuuhaku and Ishikawa Chizuru, "were snooping around back. The, uhhh, the dog alerted me."

"Ahh, the dog" she says looking back at the two latecomers, "Yes, he has been around the Orphanage for many years. Quite protective. Care to explain why you were snooping out back? Perhaps trying to sneak in the back while I'm distracted?" Her gaze begins and stops with Kuuhaku and Chizuru, but her eyes sweep once over everyone and it's obvious she believes the group had some sort of plan.

"No.  As you see, our group is rather large, so we can afford to split up and cover more ground.  Chizuru though (quite wisely) to check the alleyway and I accompanied her.  Based upon how quickly the dog objected to our presence and your confirmation of it's longstanding presence, I guess we can rule out the alleyway as a means of entry or egress," Kuuhaku explains.  He looks to the others, "So that leaves the front door and magic, unless I've forgotten another means?"

OOC: Hmm, speaking of which, anyone capable of checking the rooms for traces of magic residue (indication of teleportation <sp?> or something else...)

"Sorry for poking around back there!  We were looking for clues!" Chizuru says, grinning confidentially at Houtai.

The man's glare only deepens, and he gives a disbelieving grumble.

"I could check but," says the wu jen with nose twitching, "you said THE key.  If one key fits every lock here, then one copy would get a person into everything. "

He looks at the shugenja nezumi, "And the spirits said the 'locks were the key,' right?" Zheng-ze looks back at the Matron, "So, who else has a copy?"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:10, Tue 22 Feb 2011.

Kuuhaku looks at the glaring man with an even stare.  "If we were trying to sneak in the back, don't you think we would have silenced the dog immediately?" he asks in an even tone.  After a moment he he adds, "Renshu Kiro, the winter sect priest, was here yesterday correct?  He was attacked by men with their faces painted half black and half white last night as he headed back to the temple.  Have you seen anyone like them around lately?"  He decides to leave his role in aiding the priest aside for the moment.

Scratching his whitened stubble, the swordless duelist gets an idea. "Say..you say this dog's been around for awhile. Has it exhibited any strange behavior lately? Barking at odd hours and the like? What about during the times of the disappearances? Knowing how loyal a beast such as it can be, it might ken problems where people can't."

O' mumbles to himself.
Maybe the key is magic...
Then realizing he has spoken aloud, retreats inward again.

Eyeing Houtai, the bladeless swordsman rises. "Pardon me, madame, but would you mind if we spoke in confidence with Houtai here?"

"No, nothing comes to mind--" the korobokuru caretaker begins before Ichiro-san suddenly interrupts--


Her brow furrows, but it seems more at the interruption than at the idea. With just the slightest hesitation she quickly agrees, "I have no problems with that at all." she says standing. "Besides I've told you what I know and need to go help Teacher with the children."

Looking at Houtai with a smile, she tells him to be helpful and get to his duties as soon as she can. She then excuses herself, leaves the small anteroom and goes down the main hallway before turning near the far end stepping-up a stairwell and out of view.

The one-eyed man nods obediently, but after she leaves he crosses his arms across his chest. His glaring eye moves slowly from the two "back alley intruders" to Ichiro-san.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:32, Thu 24 Feb 2011.

OOC: Had I known the old lady was going to respond more verbosely, my character wouldn't have interrupted her. Sorry about that.

"I have a feeling that you're the one we need to talk to, Houtai, and I think you know why. It would be in your best interests to tell us what you know." says the bladeless swordsman, crossing his arms across his chest and meeting the gaze of the man who seemed so nervous just a moment ago.

Ichiro-san wins the quick and subtle battle of wills, and the one-eyed handyman/security guard looks at the floor "You don't know what's best for me..." he snaps, but doesn't sound fully convinced "besides, I don't, ummm, I don't know where they are." He says in a softer tone as glances off toward the connecting hallway,
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:00, Thu 03 Mar 2011.

PM to DM

Arching a brow, the man takes on a calmer tone. "Well, if you could tell us what you *do* know, then perhaps we won't have to turn you into the authorities for detainment and investigation. I can assure you that we're a lot more merciful than your captors would be."

Houtai's upper lip quivers in an snarl-like motion as he quickly (perhaps too quickly) snaps back, "I'm not afraid of city officials! I've protected this orphanage for years!"

Standing up and calmly, but instantaneously replying back, the brown-robed man seems like a coiled snake.
"The orphanage is the children in it, no? How is withholding information regarding their disappearance protecting them?"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:41, Thu 03 Mar 2011.

Zheng-Ze, having once again started to nibble on a small, crunchy, vegetable snack, speaks calmly in different language.

OOC: Spirit Tongue. If your PC speaks it, let me know.

Houtai locks his eye upon Ichiro-san,  "I do ca--" but then is suddenly cut off by whatever soft words the wu jen spoke.

Instead, he stops and stares silently at the floor for a long moment....

He softly speaks back to the Wu Jen
and then switches to the Common Language of the Humans of the East, "I did not know they would kidnap the children." the words tumble-out behind an emotional effort. The man's body language is completely submissive.

OOC: I did a quick, creative move of the posting order for effect.
Also, the dice roller just gave the party a great bounus---Houtai just had an "critical failure on his willpower." (My apologies for any confusion when I accidentally pulled Zheng-Ze's name in the drop-down menu instead of Houtai's!
)
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:21, Thu 03 Mar 2011.

Kuuhaku steps forward and places a gentle hand on Houtai's shoulder.  He speaks in a kindly tone, "If you made a mistake, do what you can to correct it...trying to hide it will only compound the error.  Tell us what we need to know and we will do what we can to end this crisis."  He looks to his companions, hoping they will support his words.

The duelist, seemingly thankful he doesn't have to do anymore talking, nods his assent to Kuuhaku, smirking to himself that he was able to keep his fists from talking for as long as he had, and hoping this gardener paints a clear target on something.

Zheng-Ze speaks rapidly, like always. His tone stays casual and relaxed. "Who..<bite, crunch>..did you not know..<munch, munch>..would take them?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:09, Fri 04 Mar 2011.

O' watches the interaction with admiration and curiosity. Could he have just witnessed magic?

The one-eyed man nods slightly, more to himself than anyone else it seems, and glances at the Nezumi. "The Saishuu Warai yakuza [Final Laugh Thieves Guild]...they asked about the building and...the locks....I-didn't-take-their-offers-for-many-many-many months" he adds quickly and then falls silent for a moment.....

"But...I thought with the money they offered I could...that I could help replace whatever they stole. I didn't every think..." a trace of anger can be heard in Houtai's voice, "I never thought they were after the children." He looks up at the group and his voice rises, "Why would they do that?". He shuts his mouth almost immediately and glances toward the hallway where the Orphanage's Matron had gone. He rubs a hand across his face in obvious shame.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:41, Fri 04 Mar 2011.

O' flushed with anger. He could be patient and forgiving of many things that occurred in the world, and saw no evil in the folly of beast, but he had not yet learned any understanding of the unnatural weaknesses of men...
O' looked about him, wondering if this was the time or place to smash.

"Bake them in an oven?" Chizuru says, finishing the rhyme unthinkingly. A moment later, she clapped her hand over her mouth.

"Sorry!  I mean... who knows? But we'll try to stop them, whatever they're trying to do! Is there anything else you can tell us about the Saishuu Warai?" she asks quickly.

OOC: Cool name for a Thieves Guild, T'ien Lung :)

“We should go find the Saishuu Warai yakuza if we suspect they took the children” the ratling suggested.

O' listened impassively. His features were dark, even more so that usual. The thought of children in harms way did not sit easy with him.