Fairly disappointed by his new inscriptions due to their high cost and lack of use, Lei shrugs and stores them away for the time being.

Learning of a gambling den which claim to have information on Gao Li, Lei is intrigued. He doesn't particularly care if Gao Li is a gambler, or if he's even involved in giving out predatory loans. Lei considers not bothering, but then it occurs to him they may be involved with Gao Li's absence, and could perhaps even be a threat to his safety!

With this in mind, Lei decides he should probably show up. He doesn't want to cause any problems for Gao Li though, if he gets the wrong. It might not look great for him to be associated with this group, so Lei will make sure not to bring them to his home, and to only travel there from a third unassociated location such as the market, to throw off any spying eyes.

Of course, Lei doesn't have a grand amount of money, but in his opinion he is certainly a decent gambler. His current wealth is 1 GT 0 ST 62 CT. Not particularly impressive, especially for a group that can supposedly stand toe-to-toe with Gao Li in terms of monetary relevance.

Not that Gao Li's funds are unlimited, of course, but he is a fairly wealthy man, at least.

Lei decides that this amount of money won't cut it. He needs to grow his wealth, quickly. The best way to do this, is of course, gambling. However, it wouldn't do for him to show up to talk but excuse himself for some small-time gigs first, would it?

I mean, he could sweet talk his way into making the act look fine, but they were professionals and would get a bad idea about him.

So, Lei decides to spend the next week hitting up various, smaller, unassociated places. He won't restrict himself to anything in particular, even willing to bet money with random fellows, as long as it's in his price range.

Once he has managed to turn his gold tael into roughly ten times that, hopefully at least several gold taels, he will head for the Lambtiger Den proper to make his debut in search of information that could potentially harm Gao Li.

If this takes more than TWO week to build funds, he will drop the search and return to full-time cultivation of his technique, since he will consider this a task he cannot accomplish with his current means.

Lei has no mind to ask for money from the staff of the estate. This is a personal hunch and nothing more. Though, he will bring up the open-ended question of if there are any groups hostile to Gao Li in the area. He won't mention the den by name, in case it turns out to just be one of the merchant's leisure haunts, which is totally possible.

Gambling skill roll? I'll roll 1d100 and you can decide if it's a self check against or opposed check

quote:

19:26, Today: Lei Feng rolled 14 using 1d100.  gambling check.

So the total for an opposed roll is 58, and the result of a self roll is SUCCESS

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 30):

Date (Y/M/D): 1001/01/14
Season: Winter
Time: Night

You spend two weeks gambling at various dens in the city - and are surprised by your considerable luck.

Although you made some initial losses, you find yourself gaining a small fortune of 19 GT alongside a number of female admirers clearly lusting not over your tremendous manliness and gallatry but the bulge in your pants not caused by certain unspeakable supreme manliness but rather by the fat money pouch you now possess. Apparently with 20 GT you have enough money to start a small business or shop in the city - which is a pretty big deal.

You also seem to notice rumors of your small windfall spread through the streets and you strangely notice the servants of the Gao Estate treat you a little more courteously than usual. And thanks to this change in attitude, you learn that Gao Li's main enemies are the Abacus Association and the Zhou Family merchants, who are the main competitors of his general goods trade.

With your new reputation, you are readily allowed into the Lambtiger's Den, who even arrange two rather well endowed escorts to accompany you while gambling.
While you gamble, you learn a number of nuggets of information.

- Apparently, one of the members Abacus Association has hired a number of assassins to go after Gao Li's family members in other parts of Dingzhou.

- Gao Li is also apparently part of an underworld gang called the Four Locust Clan is said to be involved in the illegal trading of salt overseen by the Empire of Lan in this part of Dingzhou. Apparently some people seem to think that you part of the Four Locust Clan because of the way you dressed and the way you treated Gao Li's residence as your home. Of course no one dares to report him because of the strength of the Four Locust Clan.

- Gao Li owes the Lambtiger Den 10 GT. You can tell from the Den's staff's expressions that they would like you to pay up, but thinking that you're part of the Four Locust Clan, they are holding back.

Based on the current mood of the Gambling Den, you can gamble a few rounds (gambling self check) to return home safely, or treat everyone to a round of drinks (4 GT), or pay off Gao Li's debt - which would most likely afford a safe trip back after gaining this new information.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:35, Wed 28 July 2021.

Lei was a little surprised and a lot happy with his luck with the various games of ante lately. With just a starting payment of a single golden tael, the rich can get richer in such games, wherein many families from hamlets local to but outside of his own had lost family members to the depths of the addiction.

Regardless, it was working out well for him, and it was very fun to do! Attracting a ton of attention wasn't necessarily bad, because being recognized felt good, but for an upcoming cultivator, lots of prying eyes could diminish his available meditation time.

At the lambtiger den, Lei obtains a lot of good information, while enjoying the lovely view of two buxom beauties leaving many of the other patrons jealous.

The first rumor is immediately very upsetting to Lei, who decides in his mind he will report this to Gao Li as soon as he returns, or through a letter if he has to.

Lei had heard of the Four Locust Clan, as he was very knowledgeable about Dingzhou as a region, due to the many tales travelers whom had visited him and his parents' compound had imparted them with.

Recalling they were responsible for smuggling salt, Lei figures that's not exactly a moral sin as much as it is economic fraud, probably to avoid tariffs. Nothing that changes his opinion of Gao Li, but he will keep quiet about it since it's not really worth to bring up.

The fact that many people seem to be assuming Lei is part of the Four Locust Clan might be problematic later, but for now it's not a hinderance, and probably not a big enough uproar to make any actual gang leaders indignant.

Lastly, it seems Gao Li owes the Lambtiger ten golden taels. That doesn't seem like a lot of money, since Lei got two taels as a starting allowance while Gao Li was away. Though, Lei had no real grasp of money on this scale, as apparently he was just one golden tael short of starting a business?

Most likely Gao Li either had forgotten he had an outstanding tab (Lei had been there many-a-time, after getting blackout drunk on liquors and waking up many taels lighter), or had deliberately chosen not to pay the price, probably to send a message? Lei wasn't sure.

Reading the atmosphere, Lei figures it's probably fine to spill some gold to keep his blood unspilled. Though, unless this place has cultivators on staff, they couldn't really pose a threat to him unless he's ambushed.

Regardless, making enemies is generally tiring and no fun, so Lei has no interest in such bothersome people. Unfortunately, all three routes he can think to settle the mood are either certain or plausible to cost him more than his actual allowance from Gao Li...

Thus, he reaches the decision to ease tensions but not pay the debt. It's not his responsibility to deal with. Lei would immediately do so for his friend if he knew that's what Gao Li desired, but if keeping such a debt was intentional on the merchant's part, Lei felt it would be awkward or possibly damaging to interfere with the politics.

Using some (relatively, given his upbringing) quick mental calculations, Lei approximates the cost of buying a round of drinks as four gold taels. Honestly, that sounds like a fun time... Yet, gambling too is fun?

Finalizing his decision, Lei decides to subtract four taels from his 19 taels, to buy a round of drinks, and then place 10 of his 15 remaining taels on a coupel rounds of gambling.

Here as how he approaches doing this:

It was bustling in the area, many older men draped in elegant fineries, and many younger woman draped in elegant fineries that were probably closer to undergarments than formalwear.

Drinks were being had, information was being sold, and the sound of rolling dice and moving tokens echoed throughout the multi-scented and smoke-filled space. An environment like this was still a little uncomfortable to Lei, as it was certainly different from a commoner's city pub or riverside inn. It was closer to an opium den, in truth. Despite being a little edgy and despite the signs of hostility, Lei still found the atmosphere pleasurable.

After gathering some information as he had come to do, Lei found one or a few of the individuals who had ownership or manager roles for this location, and began to discuss with them about the things on both their minds, "Greetings, Managers of the Lambtiger Den. I am called as Lei Feng. As your people have assumed, I am indeed a friend of Gao Li. " his words and tone left ambiguous what 'friend' meant. Most likely they would assume he was indicating he was a fellow clan member, without him particularly saying so.

"I've just come here to gather some information on Gao Li tonight, and I heard your sir's place has been cited as a good spot for such affairs." Lei said complimentary but without lowering himself. Being reach really was different! Even the servants back at the estate acted properly submissive now that he had wealth! Ugh, politics!

"This incursion was not meant to be a major expenditure for me, yet your company seems to hold different expectations?" Lei says with a bit of attitude, clearly displeased at being expected to spend a certain threshold of money just for showing up. Sure, even he wasn't so daft to be tossing around coppers in a full-on den like this one, but any minimum bets should be made clear in places such as these, he knew as much.

With a surrendering sigh, and an unbothered shrug of his shoulders, Lei remarked "Well, it can't be helped. Since this is the case - despite Gao Li's debts not being a problem of mine simply by assocation as though I were his next of kin to inherit - Would it please the house if this one were to buy the patrons amd staff a round of drinks to relax these awful tensions, and then engage in some wholesome gambling? I won't makes any claims of impropriety on the house's behalf if you win enough from me to pay this debt, and you won't send men after me even if I end up winning back the taels I'm donating out of goodwill?" Lei gave an affable smile and opened his arms in a gesture of honesty and offering.

Lastly, he adds, "This, of course, would not count as paying Gao Li's debts. I'm sure the man has his reasons for not paying, and I will speak with him about it when we next meet. This is simply for assurance of mutual trust in one another for the most basic of decency, which despite the gorgeous escorts you've supplied me with, I haven't been feeling since my arrival. Many eyes scream of threats during my return trip, you know?"

Lei was pretty proud of himself for navigating the situation. He felt his terms were very very generous, in fact absurdly so. From his view, he didn't owe these people a goddamned tael, and they should offer him a formal apology for their hostile attitude to an honest patron coming to deal with information brokers and maybe spend some money.

The whole antagonism was from them, so if they turned down his benevolence or tried to make extra demands for it, Lei would be extremely displeased with all of them. A less intense version of this exact sentiment was present in his final sentence, as he basically passed the blame for whatever situation existed onto them.

If all went as planned, Lei would end the night with anywhere from 5 golden taels to at least more than 15, depending on his luck at the tables.

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 32):

"Such magnamity - as expected of the friend of Gao Li!" the manager of the Den gleefully smiles as he accepts the gold taels. "Everyone! Know the great generosity of this man who has treated everyone to a round of drinks!"

Upon hearing this, the excitement of the den rises signficantly as everyone cheers at your very generous display of wealth.

"Come, come, you've done us a great service by easing the tensions of our humble establishment. It won't do to treat you just as a normal guest...!" the manager introduces himself as Ping Zhun, who appears to be a rather strongly built man with a slight beer belly, who ushers you to a more fine room in which you see a three very finely dressed people playing a cardgame you recognize as Madiao.

After formally introducing you and offering the rest of the rich looking people a cup of fine wine - you notice the expressions of the people change as you can see their mood improving significantly.

You become acquainted with three merchants -

Lan You Jin: A corpulent merchant involved in the fur trade. He is completely bald and clean shaven. He has a distinctive large mole above at the end of his left eyebrow from which a single distracting strand of hair dangles.

Kang Jie Min: A young man who owns a metalworking business with fox-like eyes with is hair neatly tied in a rather tall topknot. He seems to always be smiling.

Wang Jiu Chi: An strongly built man with untied long hair and very colourful robes. He apparently owns a business of manufacturing scent bags which seems even more certain as you can smell a very powdery sweet musk-like scent from him. His mannerisms appear rather effeminate and he speaks in a strange forced high pitched voice as though someone with a deep voice was trying to speak like a woman.

One thing you notice is that most of the gambling token sticks used are largely placed near to Wang Jiu Chi. It seems that this merchant Wang was in the lead until you arrived.

Having made a good impression with the three - you go through a few games with them chattering about the various goings on in the city and you learn the following:

1. From Lan You Jin: There is a rumor that the price of raw metal and wood and their related goods is about the rise significantly in the Empire of Yoh in Dingzhou and its neighboring provinces, as the empire has recently been  been quite aggressive with its border conflicts with its nearby lesser kingdoms with the island kingdoms to the west in Ximiao.

2. From Kang Jie Min: There is a rumor of a crazy naked man in the forest of Xunzhu towards the north who has apparently attracting many fervent followers. It is said that the man has the ability to bring fortune to people by just touching them on their head.

3. From Wang Jiu Chi: There is the rumor of a travelling merchant who arrived from far south who has brought to Dingzhou a range of exotic fabrics and herbs. Following this happening, the royal court of the Empire of Lan is assembling an a group of envoys and their caravan to map out and secure a route to procure these exotic items which seem to be fetching extremely high prices among noblemen and rich merchants.

Through the game, you make a few losses, but miraculously rebound near the end of the game fetching literally 5x the amount of gold you put into the game (You gain 50 GT).

Clearly not expecting you to be of such great fortune, you sense Lan You Jin and Kang Jie Min gazing at you with rather forced smiles as they likely expected to regain their winnings now with you in this game.

The only one who seems to be pleased with your victory however appears to be Wang Jiu Chi who repeatedly praises you and frequently lightly taps you on your shoulders every once in a while with his muscly calloused fingers.

"My... such a man of great fortune~ You truly electrified my heart~!" the Wang swoons over you while shaking about in a rather strange manner, drawing the disdainful glances of the other two merchants. You feel the two escorts seated next to you hold your arms closer to their bosoms clearly creeped out by Wang.

After you cash out your tokens and leave the establishment with the manager beaming a smile at you to the quiet alleyway, you notice after a few moments Wang following you from your side and clasping hands. He is escorted by a rather elegant looking woman in tight fitting robes wearing a sword with a translucent blue veil covering her nose and mouth. You notice strangely that she is not looking at or studying you as you'd expect from an armed escort. Her hand isn't even at the hilt of her blade.

"It was truly a fine game~! I was impressed by your display of great gallantry in the game room. I admire your great talent and wish to get to know you a little better - would you find it agreeable to meet with me in my manor tomorrow? I have a fine proposal for you which I think will be greatly beneficial to both of us - and Gao Li..."

The man's voice trails in a strangely enigmatic way as he enunciates his last word which feels rather cold despite his silly manner of speech.

Everything had worked in his favor! Lei was ecstatic! The Martial Gods were truly smiling upon him, right now!

Things were going great... except for this strange Wang Jiu Chi fellow... The gambler was quite clearly a rather queer person, judging by how the others had been giving him stink eye all night long.

Lei hadn't really minded the man's eccentricities, and had even given some halfhearted awkward laughter with his constant compliments. The overbearing physical contact was more than a little discomforting, but Lei wasn't truly bothered enough to lash out at him.

The swooning was a bit over the top, and was clearly upsetting his escorts, since that was more or less what their job was supposed to be. Oh also it was creepy, that too.

Going back a bit; These new set of rumors were of less interest to Lei overall, but worth keeping in mind. The tariff on metal and wood from Ximiao was definitely of great import, but not to Lei personally. He would share the tidbit with Gao Li when he returned, on the off-chance the man wasn't already in the loop about it.

The single rumor that struck Lei as most relevant to himself was the tale of the luck-blessing forest nudist. What a strange tale. Lei figured if it was accurate, and not just a weird cult in the rising, the man was likely to be a cultivator. As for his 'nudity' and 'craziness' that could either be malicious words that had been seeded by the man's enemies, or it was actually the truth and the guy was both a cultivator and a menace.

Lastly, there was a tale of a lone merchant who had brought greatly rare goods from the far south, likely from Zhangnan Region, and now the Emperor of Lan seems to be plotting to get a direct line to those goods. How dastardly. Again though, not Lei's problem for the time.

Back to the present; The man named Wang Jiu Chi had followed Lei out of the building with a similarly odd woman by his side. There he was given a proposal to come to the man's manor and talk business...

What a load of horse dung. This was all clear enough to Lei Feng! This man was clearly into him in THAT way, and was propositioning him right now!

To be honest, Lei was more than a little tickled by it! To think that he was attractive to such a variety of people! Now he just had to get a confession from Ning Zhen or another beastwoman and he could reach his lifelong goal (citation needed) and begin to claim that he was the ultimate lover!

Then again, he wasn't interested at all. Even if this were just a business proposal despite this effeminate man's flirty attitude with Lei all night, the cultivator had no reason to show up. He was already in the middle of a job with Gao Li, though that hadn't been revealed to the den.

Most offputting of all was how the man seemed to be unhappy with the prospect of benefitting Gao Li... his tone had changed, clearly. Perhaps his lack of enthusiasm was simply because he had no interest in sharing Lei with the other merchant (which Lei thought was totally understandable, because who would want to share the greatest treasure in the valley!?) or perhaps it was something more sinister.

Lei felt that it could be a good idea to go to the meeting to get more information on this man's position, but overall it would probably be less risky to stay at the mansion and not leave any openings for hostile forces to attack.

Thus, Lei quickly concocted a response. "While I've appreciated your kind words tonight, Merchant Wang, I have tasks of much import to be attending to, and so I cannot spare the time to meet with you for business nor for pleasure. Farewell, then." It was a polite but pretty simple shutdown of the possibility. Lei was a bit too tired to play coy after the whole night, and he didn't really like to lead people on.

Lei gave a single nod before returning to the estate of Gao Li.

---

Assuming Lei returns to his temporary homestead safely, he will enter the manor and ask the servants that are still awake at this hour what the proper place to store or hide taels in a home would be? In truth, Lei had never held enough gold to be forced to store it anywhere other than his belt.

Unfortunately, even if he was a cultivator, it was a bit tough to fight lithely while carrying a sack of heavy metal. Thus, he would ideally try and find a place to keep half of his fifty taels so that he didn't carry all of it on him and become both a target for thieves and a sloth that couldn't run.

Lei was happy to have such a great amount of money, it would make buying supplies for prolonged meditation much easier! Regardless, he still had much time left before Gao Li was to return, and so he would spend that time attempting to increase his Xiuwei in his special cultivation technique he had named a while ago as 'Sequential Scythe', and he would also try to increase his overall willpower and agility, which should help him in combat.

He would also exchange five golden taels from both stockpiles into their equivalent in silver taels, if possible. This would help to keep purchases fast.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:00, Thu 29 July 2021.

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 34):

Wang Jiu Chi after hearing your response simply reacts in a mild manner as though he had expected your refusal.

"Of course, of course - a man of your stature must truly be busy indeed! No matter! If we have had the affinity to meet once, there is no doubt we will meet again! Perhaps when that day comes you will see the value in my proposals~ Just remember this, the gates of the Wang family will always be open to you - if you ever find yourself in a pinch~"

Wang Jiu Chi throws you a kiss with his muscly palm, to which his escort seems to grimace at and leaves the place as you do.

...

After asking the servants about where to hide money, one of the servants named Qiu Huqian quite proudly proclaims while tapping his chest with his fist - "Of course, the best place to hide one's gold is inside the chamber pot! No one in their right mind would be willing to reach their hand inside such a filthy place. But... I know of an even better place to hide your taels... just leave it to me - and I'll make sure that your gold will never go missing! My name is Huqian after all - protector of money!"

Whether you decide to trust him or not, the remainder of the current month passes quite peacefully allowing you to make some progress in your cultivation and your abilities:

+153 Sequential Scythe Xiuwei
+1d2 ABL and +1d2 WIL
+1d6 Finger, Scythe, Metal on a respective skill self check Failure


As the season pushes on into midwinter, while cultivating in your room, you suddenly at the very last minute sense a dagger flying towards your chest! (Make a opposed roll. Success if more than 78, otherwise take 6 damage)

Whether you manage to dodge it or not, you suddenly sense the presence of 2 men dressed completely black infiltrating your room!
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:14, Fri 30 July 2021.

Lei ignores the man's creepiness, but cautiously appreciates his seeming hospitality.

In his ventures to hide his wealth, the servants end up being useless, which is annoying.

Lei decides to simply place half the taels tied underneath the bottom of the guest bed. This way, the servants are less likely to find it while cleaning.



Shocked out of his cultivation by a dagger aimed at his chest, Lei immediately bursts onto his feet and grabs the two scythes laying by his side as he was refining their art.

Sensing two presences, and knowing the layout of this guestroom, the assassins must be infiltrating through the single west-facing window (lovely for viewing sunsets!). The room, while nice, is not exceptionally large, being just a place to lay your head, not a hall of any kind. Thus, moving eighteen feet should be plenty for Lei to cover enough ground to get both foes within five feet of him.

Activating his favored art, Zhi Hui Finger Brandish [-3 QI] and using both hands and additional Qi to maneuver both scythes, Lei attacks each enemy twice.

OOC: What is the proper modifier to add to this? I could see Metal, Scythe or Finger being viable. I opted to add finger since it is the highest. If you decide scythe is more appropriate, subtract 15 from the attacks, if you decide metal is more appropriate, subtract 21 from the attacks

Each scythe attacks each opponent once. So the first enemy is taking the first and third attack, while the second enemy is taking the second and fourth.

quote:

13:41, Today: Lei Feng rolled 117,150,97,69,5,3,1,3 using 1d100+55,1d100+55,1d100+55,1d100+55,1d6,1d6,1d4,1d4 with rolls of 62,95,42,14,5,3,1,3.  finger brandish.

117 to hit for 5 damage
150 to hit for 3 damage
97 to hit for 1 damage
69 to hit for 3 damage

This message was last edited by the player at 17:42, Fri 30 July 2021.

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 36):

Your scythe flies in the trajectory according to your finger's gesture, slashing at the infiltrators and letting some of their blood splash upon the slate floor.

Clearly shocked by this strange technique, you notice them back away for a moment but then quickly nod to each other as they attempt to flank you with daggers on both hands drawn!

To your right you sense a set of daggers slashing towards you - [>= 81 to react or 3 damage]
To your left you sense another set of daggers stabbing towards you - [>= 144 to react or 3 damage]

[You can only react to one of the attacks, and can only react to both is the reaction (dodge, block, parry etc) roll is more than the total of all opposing rolls i.e. 144+81 = 225]

Unable to dodge either knife, Lei takes two blades in both shoulders.

With a yelp of pain, and an angry curse directed at the two foes, he continues attacking them.

OOC: i have no dodge/parry/whatever skill, so I can't possibly beat anything over 100. no need to use a reaction

quote:

13:34, Today: Lei Feng rolled 60,134,147,100,4,2,2,4 using 1d100+55,1d100+55,1d100+55,1d100+55,1d6,1d6,1d4,1d4 with rolls of 5,79,92,45,4,2,2,4.  zhi hui.

60 to hit for 4 damage
134 to hit for 2 damage
145 to hit for 2 damage
100 to hit for 4 damage

Lei's current health is 15/27
Lei's current Qi is 27/33

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 38):

The two men are further taken aback by your vitality and martial ability as your scythe whistles about your like the wind, slicing at their flesh. They stagger backwards now covered in blood as you see through their masked faces fear glowing in their eyes.

The one to your left hurriedly turns tail, scattering caltrops behind him as he leaps to a window and dives outside, while the other continues his flurry of dagger strikes at you [>= 84 to react or 4 damage]!

Its clear that the other is trying to keep you busy so that the other can escape!

quote:

14:59, Today: Lei Feng rolled 78 using 1d100.  dodge roll v 84.

FAIL.

Current Health: 11/27


As the man protects his fleeing comrade, Lei is moved by the show of solidarity, adn exclaims in an empathetic voice filled with his pain from the wounds, "Just leave!" and doesn't attack further with Zhi Hui unless the remaining man takes a hostile action.

It would be nice to know why he had been attacked, but Lei didn't know if he'd be able to pull his punches with this technique to capture the man alive.


Action: Prepare finger brandish to trigger on hostile action
Current Qi: 24/33

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 40):

As though made more confident by your sudden cease in attacking, the remaining assassin boldly advances again with another flurry of dagger attacks! [>=109 to dodge or take 4 damage]

From the lack of sound coming from the window outside - it seems that the other assassin has abandoned his companion and escaped by himself!

Cannot dodge.
Current Health: 6/27
Prepared Action would trigger before the start of my turn, causing the following attacks:

quote:

15:21, Today: Lei Feng rolled 132,105,118,58,6,6,4,1 using 1d100+55,1d100+55,1d100+55,1d100+55,1d6,1d6,1d4,1d4 with rolls of 77,50,63,3,6,6,4,1.  prepared zhi hui.

132 to hit for 6 damage
105 to hit for 6 damage
118 to hit for 4 damage
58 to hit for 1 damage

On my turn, if the man is still alive, Lei Feng will attack him again with finger brandish.

quote:

15:24, Today: Lei Feng rolled 81,79,67,135,3,6,1,4 using 1d100+55,1d100+55,1d100+55,1d100+55,1d6,1d6,1d4,1d4 with rolls of 26,24,12,80,3,6,1,4.  zhi hui on my turn.

81 to hit for 3 damage
79 to hit for 6 damage
67 to hit for 1 damage
135 to hit for 4 damage



Seeing the assailant spit in his eye after being shown way more mercy than he deserved, Lei roars explosively in rage and pain alike, "BASTARD ASSASSIN! DIE" hopefully alerting some individuals in the manor about his whereabouts. He was injured, it would be good for him to get healing soon. Those caltrops were also restricting his movement.

Unleashing his Zhi Hui as the dagger flies towards him, and then again once getting back his footing quickly after being struck, Lei attempts to shred the man to pieces.

The other, cowardly, traitorous bastard of a man could be caught and questioned.

OOC: Could I petition for Lei to make a rage self check or smth here? I feel like one is appropriate rn.

Current Qi: 18/33

With your prepared attack, the assassin finally falls to the ground weakly, rapidly bleeding - with some of the scraps of his flesh being literally torn from him as your scythes ravage his flesh.

As the assassin dies, you suddenly hear the sounds of running as you see servant Qiu Huqian rush to the scene hurriedly with an expression of panic.

"Master Lei! Master Lei! Are you alright?"

After seeing the assassin and your wounds, he yells to the other servants who follwed, "Get a physician!"

As the situation calms down, you unfortunately hear that the other assassin has managed to escape with only one of the manor guards catching him headed towards the north street. They of course did not pursue because such action was above their paygrade as they claimed.

Should you search the assassin's body, you find nothing by 11 throwing knives and a rather well drawn portrait of you done in ink. You even have your rather dashing smirk. Judging from the expression of glee on the portrait, you imagine whoever drew that saw you while you were rolling in the gold taels from that fortunate gamble night.

After the physician arrives and tends to your wounds, he says that you will likely need 2 weeks of rest and medicine to completely recover.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:22, Tue 03 Aug 2021.

Not one to argue with a medical professional, Lei thanks him for his work and then pulls aside Qiu Huqian later in the day and thanks him for his quick response, secretly handing him 5 Gold Taels from his pocket out of appreciation, out of the way of the other manor staff.

Lei requests of the servant to stay in this manor at least until Lei's wounds heal, before he quits to go spend or invest the money, if that is his decision. This is to make sure Lei has a good set of eyes and ears while he is unable to prowl the grounds for himself.

The cultivators feels that this mortal is a kindred spirit towards him, as they both have a very positive, carefree personality. Hopefully the man also has a strong sense of loyalty, or else Lei will revise his heart's opinion.

During these two weeks, if possible, Lei will meditate to also regenerate his spent Qi, which should only take minutes, while he also recovers from his terrible wounds. Beyond that, he won't practice any cultivation, since being bedridden has severely messed up his training plans to break through this stage.

Lei doesn't take any of the stuff from the assassin, and allows the manor staff to decide how to deal with all that after they clean up the blood and caltrops from the room that remain after the scuffle.

Lastly, Lei commands the house guards to increase their patrol on borrowed authority from their master Gao Li. He doesn't berate them for not giving chase, as he agrees that their lives are objectively more valuable being used as a network of intelligence rather than being thrown away to die to a superior foe in a dank alleyway.

He also gives the whole staff express information to increase their attentiveness to maximum, but also to refrain from any violence whatsoever, as Lei claims he cannot guarantee their safety against other cultivators, if they were to show up.

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 42):

Date (Y/M/D): 1001/01/28
Season: Winter
Time: Morning

You see a rather serious looking expression on Qiu Huqian as he receives the 5 gold taels.

"I will make sure the guards remain more vigilant to make sure this does not happen again," Qiu Huqian speaks as he bids his farewell with cupped fists and rushes to somewhere else in the manor.

...

Thankfully the next two weeks are rather uneventful, giving you your much needed time to recover from your wounds completely.

When you emerge from your room finally to survey the manor - you notice that the manor ground seem to be devoid of anyone. You it is impossible that everyone would have just spirited away as you recall having had a rather nice Dinner of roasted lamb last night.

Even after calling for Qiu Huqian, there is no response.

Eventually, you hear sounds of synchronized marching from outside the walls of the manor and coming into the entrance grounds of the manor appears to be a strange palanquin with various flower motifs in shade of garish pink, held up by what appears to be a procession of what appears to be asura women in rather simple sleeveless robes. They gaze ahead disinterestedly as from the palanquin descends none other than Wang Jiu Chi, who this time wears a strangely translucent robe that shows off his rather sinewy torso underneath. FOr some reason, despite being rather cold in winter, he doesn't seem to appear cold in this hiemal snowy weather. As usual he is escorted by his female bodyguard who seems to look as disinterested as ever.

Taking out a fan bearing the illustration of chrysanthemum flowers, he greets you.

"Good morning Master Lei! I heard that you and Merchant Gao fell into quite a pickle recently, so I took the initiative and lent you some aid. Well to say I took this matter into my own hands for selfless purposes would be a lie, but I figured that it was a good opportunity to foster some friendship between you and I! Ohohohoho!"

Laughing in a strange manner, Wang ushers you into the visitor's hall as though he was now the owner of the place. And as you would have guessed, it seems that Gao Li was recently imprisoned by the Naked Pangolin gang in the City of Ningchuan in Xujiang. Apparently the gang has a tight grip on the city as the governer's son is a high ranked member of the gang. This has lead to the gang being in cahoots with the government officials and esentially convicting Gao out of court with the intent of repossessing all of his properties.

It was at this moment that Wang had used his self professed powers of seduction to somehow get the deed for Gao Li's property here in Tianman city to exchange hands and end up in his possession.

"Here is my proposal: I will send my escort here, Lan Fei to accompany you in a mission to rescue Gao Li."

"Ha...? What...?" the disinterested looking escorted next to Wang suddeny snaps her head towards Wang with just slightly widened eyes.

"Oh pretty pretty please...?" Wang clutches Lan Fei's fair dainty hands with his muscly fingers while trying to make a pleading expression.

"Ugh, whatever," Lan Fei swats her master's hands away while giving a disgusted expression, to which Wang only laughs at.

"Lan Fei is quite the expert, and normally I would just send her alone. But as Gao Li likely doesn't know her, so I think it would be better to have you accompany her. Though I am confident in her skills, I am not sure if there might be other experts in the Naked Pangolin gang, and knowing that you survived an encounter with the Needle Palm Clique assassins makes me certain that you would make a compatible duo in combat!"

"So, what do you think about this situation?" Wang asks you.

Waking up to an absent building, Lei Feng immediately entered battle mode. What in the name of the Martial Gods was going on? Soon, the cultivators questions were answered. This was not an ongoing attack, whatever was happening was just the aftermath...

Lei Feng was never one to judge a man by his aesthetics, but cumulatively recalling all the off-putting vibes he had been getting from Wang Jiu Chi since they recently met as the man approaches in an implicitly militant and overtly domineering manner, Lei Feng's disgust towards this individual fully manifests.

The man's words of introduction to Lei were highly suspicious... The fact that he knew so much could be excused as an obligatory fact from his presence in information broking, but the way he spoke of things reeked of dishonesty.

Did he really try and claim that 'friendship' was applicable with 'selfishness'? This man clearly had a black heart, unlike the noble merchant Gao Li.

Lei was shocked when the man begin to take control over the manor grounds... The cultivator almost lost himself to a fit of rage and charged the bastard right then and there... but then he began to supply helpful information, and Lei kept his jaw clenched to keep himself quiet.

At the moment, it was his duty to Gao Li to hear the slime out, even if he hated to do it.

However, the information he got did not settle his temper. Rather, it worsened it greatly.

Gao Li had been unjustly imprisoned, and his assets illegally seized! This was a huge problem, and one which Lei Feng couldn't begin to think of a way to resolve? He was a simple farm boy with a good heart and a blessing from the Martial Gods, he didn't even know what game to play in order to navigate such a situation as this...

The arrogance of this slug! This filth had knowingly purchased a deed from such a source? Lei didn't know how this was being allowed to happen? Either it was all being kept quiet in just a few circles, or the whole damn system in Dingzhou was corrupt!?

Lei thought back to the noble Ma family, who had grown Ouhan Town from dirt to prosperity. He had always believed such was the behavior befitting of true aristocrats. Yet, if these black acts were indeed widespread and not explicitly forbidden by the governance, how could Lei be sure that the hands of any political figures were clean and not soiled with such grime?!

Back to the present, this criminal even knew the identity of his assailants? How could he know such a thing, unless he had called it? A single enemy had escaped. The odds that he 'just so happened' to be caught by Wang Jiu Chi or any of his forces was close to zero. Even if that were the case, it would mean they almost certainly had to be up to suspicious business around the estate...

Perhaps the servants had leaked information, Lei had no idea what had happened to all those regular people. Judging from the lack of theft after the first perpetrator was tossed away, the remainder should have been honest people, right?

Then again, a peasant's honor was only as good as the security of their selves and their families. If this man had extorted, or even bribed them for information on the appearance of the attackers, he could have made his own conclusions using his superior knowledge.

Still, it was too suspicious. The most likely truth would be that this was all orchestrated by Wang Jiu Chi and the Naked Pangolin gang in conjunction...

The situation was too confusing and unclear? Yet, Lei could not trust this hateful pus ball to give him a rice grain of truth!

Thinking through everything quietly, his eyes and temples simmering with hot anger, Lei finally came to the conclusion that the situation was terrible and there was no easy path to a good outcome.

The man considered this woman to be equal with Lei in terms of combat prowess. Perhaps the other individuals who had moved in with him were similarly powerful. If that were the case, Lei could not defeat them in a fight...

Yet, this was all assumptions made from a lack of confidence... Lei was overwhelmed. He couldn't make this decision with his own guidelines... So, he would have to borrow someone else's...

Lei thought of what the Martial Gods, whom might now be looking down on him would hope for him to do...? Yes, they would tell him to be prudent, and not lose his temper. Yet, he must not be a coward and let this person force Lei to dance in his stinking palm.

Thus, Lei spoke with what little authority he could muster given the situation, "Hm. Before I agree to anything, I must say that this is all very suspicious. I don't mean to wound the gentle Master Wang, but I must question even in your line of work, how you have so much knowledge of the given events. Worse of all is your disrespectful attitude towards my sworn friend Gao Li? Is such business not frowned upon by those in power, that you would deign it financially responsible to purchase a deed that you know to have been captured unrightfully?"

After gaging the man's reactions, Lei looked around and continued, "Furthermore, I find your concept of friends to be inaccurate. Why would you bring an armed guard if this were a simple meeting over tea? Most damning of all is your timing on the matter, as if you are not even trying to hide any potential involvement?"

Lei was frowning now, clearly distrustful of the opposite party without directly accusing them. Lastly, Lei finished with, "Why have all the servants of this recently-acquired estate of yours suddenly vanished? How can you know the identity of our assailants, even though no loose ends were left to grab? How can I be certain your words are truthful, and you are not working with these bastard criminals who you say have Gao Li imprisoned? If you know such things to be true, should you not at least ACT a little distressed?"

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 46):

Wang looks quite surprised by your exasperation, but soon you see his smile fade and turn into one that appears rather apologetic.

"Well, I am afraid if I did not use my charms, it would have been likely impossible to obtain it from the frightful Heiress that is Madame Er Lian..." Wang makes a rather solemn expression and seems to slightly shiver as he quickly shakes his head and continues. "Of course, my love and admiration for you was greater, and I couldn't bear for you to be evicted from this place and have Gao Li loose all chance of regaining his home..."

"I have no excuse for my bringing an armed guard. As I have many enemies - it is only natural that I have someone close by in the case assassins come after my head. I have been careless a number of times and nearly lost my own life and have determined that it is wise to always be cautious. I give you my word though that my guard has no intention of attacking anyone unless I am in direct threat."

"Formerly when I met you at the gambling den, I made the incorrect assumption that you were quite formidable on your own - perhaps I was too deluded by fog of infatuation... And I had confidence in Gao Li's ability to get out of the slight trouble he was in at the time. Of course it was inappropriate to mention it considering the location we were in that day... And alas, my indecision to not insist on a discussion of the matters that were about to transpire had led to yours and Gao Li's current state. As such I have no wish to hide any involvement."

"I only knew of the assailants' identities yesterday. And found out they were loosely connected to a number of servants and paid for by stakeholders eyeing  possessions. I found it especially strange when I found that none of the servants were even touched by the assassins when I heard of the attack on Gao Li's manor."

"If I were working with the criminals, I would not even have to lift a finger and would not have gone through the trouble of obtaining the manor and providing these new servants to look after the property," Wang motions towards the Asura servants who all bear rather austere looking expressions.

"I understand that perhaps it is difficult to take in all of this at once, and should you have any more questions I shall answer them. But for now, maybe it would be a good idea to cool off for a moment," Wang sighs as he motions to the new servants who respond with cupped fists and head towards all the different areas of the manor, while he walks towards the small fish pond pavilion in the manor and gazes wistfully into it.

The Lan Fei just glances at you for a few moments in reticence and follows her master from behind.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:20, Mon 09 Aug 2021.

Lei listened to Wang's explanations. Indeed, they seemed reasonable. Lei grew less and less sure of his assertations...

Rather, the fact that the man had even bothered to answer his questions left Lei with a lot of trust in him, despite his previous interpretations...

He held the urge to bow down on the floor in apology immediately, and took the reasonable advice to cool down given the circumstances, that were reasonably hard for Lei to endure.

Later in the day, perhaps ten minutes or in a couple hours, once he felt the time was appropriate, Lei approached Wang, making sure his guard was around when he did so. He didn't want to come off as a direct threat, right now.

Getting on his knees, Lei bowed his head and spoke fervently, "I apologize for my suspicions, Merchant Wang! You see, it's hard for me, who was born on a farm in a small hamlet to know if a merchant is trustworthy like my friend Gao Li, or if they are an enemy who seeks to manipualte me."

Taking a breath, Lei continues "If you will still allow me, I would be very happy to use the information you have given to me for free, despite the fact you could have charged for words of such value!"

If Lei judged that his apology had been accepted, he would stand and raise his head, giving a mischievous smile to the enigmatic but hopefully benevolent merchant, "Also, not to be rude to a benefactor, but you too made one unforgivable mistake." his grin widened as if he was holding back a laugh, "I, Lei Feng, AM a very formidable fighter!" he said, fist to his chest with mock pride. Trying to relieve the tension, Lei told a joke.

If Wang was willing to speak more on their plans, Lei would put forth the fact that before the assassins attacked the estate, he had been making plans for breaking through to the next stage in his cultivation. He says that it is something he may be able to do while on the road, but if Wang judges that time is in their favor for saving Gao Li, Lei thinks it would be better for him to stay here for a short while, less than a month for sure, probably one or two weeks, in order to make an honest attempt to climb the wall in front of him.

Throughout their talks, Lei wanted desperately to bring up how Gao Li could get his estate back, but since he was not a money-minded person, Lei could only hope that Wang would give Gao Li a favorable deal. By now, Lei still didn't know if forty five golden taels could buy the estate back with no fuss, he just knew it was more money than he has ever had.

Presumably, Gao Li had much more wealth (well, before it was stolen), and would be able to barter a better trade than Lei throwing his pittances in the air.

OOC: Shame on you, Lei! How could you make assumptions about this guy! Really, he comes off as so totally normal and innocent! Not at all a little creepy, nooo!

Basically, if Wang thinks Gao Li isn't in immediate danger, Lei will try and increase his ABL by spending 12 hours each day in the garden, exercising heavily the litheness of his muscles and quickness of movements. I don't know how long this will take, as Lei only needs 2 more ABL to ''level up'' his sequential scythe!

If Wang expresses there is a time limit to this rescue mission, Lei will try and make time for the exercise while they travel, however he can. For example, if they go by carriage, he will try and sprint alongside it for at least one hour each day. Since he's mortal, he has limits and only 24 hours in a day. It will probably be harder if they hurry to get there first, but maybe still possible, i think/hope.

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 48):

"Please! Stand up! A man should genuflect so easily!" Wang looks rather shocked as he tries to get you to stand when you drop to your knees.

"I understand your caution. It is something that is necessary, especially for someone like you who lives in the martial world. Your reaction is completely understandable, and I believe I would have reacted similarly albeit with slightly more elegance if I were in your shoes!"

As you exchanges those words with you, Merchant Wang too laughs at it and pats you in the back as you continue to discuss the situation regarding Gao Li.

According to Wang, Gao's life is not in immediate danger, but he is likely suffering under the hands of the governor of Ningchuan, Hu Bao, in secret. Considering the merchant's association with the infamous Four Locust Clan, the governor Hu is not likely to act rashly. Based on his estimates, this should by Gao Li around a month of guaranteed survival, after which his state might depend on the consequent interactions between the Four Locust and the government at Ningchuan.

Regarding the topic of the estate, Wang mentions that it is not particularly of much value - with it only worth around 40 gold taels in the market. But since he managed to seduce his way to obtain it from the Madame Er Lian for a meager 15 gold taels, he says he could virtually return it to Gao Li as an expression of friendship.

....

For the remaining month you have to prepare for Gao Li's rescue, you focus your efforts in training. As Wang observes you do this, he offers his escort Lan Fei to spar with you, which she does with a training sword made of wood.

As you train with her, you get a rough feel of her abilities, and come to the conclusion that she is indeed extremely formidable with the sword, and makes extremely experienced motions using minimal movement, only using her feet as opposed to her arms to bring out rather surprising strength in her strikes.

The regular spars between the both of you affords you considerable insight regarding movement in combat and improves your martial abilities significantly!

[+2d2 ABL, +1d6 Scythe, +34 Xiuwei]

As you meditate on the Sequential Scythe every night after training, you miraculously attain martial inspiration!!!
With the thoughts of sparring and your previous combat encounters swirling in your mind as you meditate, your eyes, seemingly turn to the back of your head and your body seems to vibrate at rapid intervals as you feel the warmth of inspiration melt from your brain into your body!!

[Your existing martial arts all gain 1 extra dice of damage. If damage depends on a weapon's damage, it also gains 1 extra dice. E.g. 1d6 -> 2d6]

[+ 1d4 Qi]

Lie Lian - Ardent Scythe [QI: 7]

Use footwork to draw additional Qi from the ground, transfering it to your posture to intensify the rotation of your scythes. This gives all scythes under your control or in your hand +3 damage dice. Due to the sheer rotational force and axial wobble of the scythe, it is difficult to parry (+10 to scythe roll during opposed check) and creates a messy, painful wound on hit that causes rapid bleeding.

[To Next: ABL 17, WIL 17, Finger 20, Scythe 20, Metal 20]


....

Now ready to make the journey, Wang asks if you require any additional supplies or equipment before you leave. He says he is more than willing to cover the cost of most equipment that you need to buy. He suggests that bringing along a few salves, pills and tools like rope, throwing weapons and smoke bombs might help with the rescue of Gao Li from the Ningchuan Yamen (prison).
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:17, Sat 14 Aug 2021.

"My father was a man who never apologized to anybody, and my mother was a woman who would apologize for the sun rising in the morning and for it setting at night! They came to an agreement to teach me never to bend my back except when my heart truly regrets a decision! I live by this very often, because my liver has a direct line of complaints to my heart! Ha ha ha!" Lei's guilt has been eased, it seems.

Pleased and refreshed by the peaceful resolve to the situation, Lei fully devoted himself to training with Lan Fei in Gao Li's courtyard, no other worries except the absolute necessity of his friend's safe recapture the sole thing on his mind.

Thanks to that, he manages to focus on training even though a beautiful woman is accompanying him! He is very proud of himself for his resistance; He briefly thinks maybe he was a Buddhist in a past life!

When the day of departure comes, Lei once again thanks Merchant Wang and requests if he could find any well-made scythes, showing the stronger of the two he owns as an example of a solid gardening tool slash martial weapon.

Lei Feng will take any miscellaneous goods the merchant will supply, but even if he has nothing to spare, he will leave with Merchant Wang the black pills that he has had in his pocket since taking down the centipede fetishist cultivator quite a few months ago.

He tells the man he doesn't need them back, but if Merchant Wang can find out what they do, Lei would like to know about them as well.

With that, Lei Feng makes his way with Lan Fei to Ningchuan, constantly making jokes about how they should fall in love since they will be traveling together for so long!

OOC: Comedy roll for making Lan Fei show Lei her laugh.

quote:

20:31, Today: Lei Feng rolled 3,6,2,28 using 2d2,1d6,1d4,1d100 with rolls of 1,2,6,2,28.  ABL, Scythe, Qi, Comedy.

+3 ABL
+2 Scythe
+6 Qi

Comedy as a self-roll is a success, as an opposed roll the total is 71

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 50):

In response to your query about scythes, Wang replies, "Scythes... well this is quite an uncommon weapon and I'm afraid I have only seen ceremonial scythes made of wood, silver or gold that I imagine will not be very helpful unless you are using them for some ritual... If you still need such a scythe though I am willing to procure them for you."

[You can decide which you want and I will retroactively add the scythe(s) to your inventory]

Wang will accept the black pills and manages to quickly hire a herbalist to determine its effects. Apparently they are pickled centipede eggs which seem to have a mild effect of restoring one's Qi if one can stomach its vile taste.

In preparation for your journey, Wang offers 10 healing salves, 3 bottles of antidote, 2 weeks worth of dried rations, and 2 fine horses. On horseback with minimal luggage, you expect to reach Ningchuan in 5 days.

...

While on horseback, you exchange a few words with Lan Fei whose mood appears to be surprisingly good despite her often aloof demeanor.

As you jest with her, she stays silent for a few moments before snorting at your comment and laughing in a somewhat condescending manner. Though you can tell from her eyes that she is genuinely entertained.

"It seems that you really are a fool. That is truly a relief. I happen to like the company of fools," she smiles as you ride together at moderate speed.

After a few hours of travel, while you take a break at a small brook to quench the thirst of your horses and make your repast, you find a rather short young lady with sandy brown hair in rather oddly extravagant robes. She appears to be along the brook as well allowing her ox to drink along the brook.

Noticing the two of you she greets you with a small bow while clutching her belly and speaks, "Big brother, Big sister - do you have any food to spare?"

"... Who's your big sister..." Lan Fei mutters under her breath as she disinterestedly munches at her dried biscuit.

Noticing that Merchant Wang had supplied him with more rations than he will need to make it to Ningchuan, Lei figures he can afford to be charitable, as he has plenty of taels and can resupply on road meals once he arrives in Ningchuan.

Though he notices the woman is wearing oddly luxurious robes, Lei still goes and prepares a week of rations from his pack. "I don't know your situation, but if you are truly hungry, you should not wear such expensive cloth. Most people would not trust a beggar in fine drapery to be legitimate."

Realizing he may actually be playing the fool inadvertently, Lei adds quickly, "Of course, one should know that to take advantage of a generous man is to steal from the mouth of the truly needy?" Lei attempts to convince the 'beggar' to come clean if they are not actually in need, basically saying they would cause others to starve just to satiate their needless greed.

Having an idea, Lei finishes with "Our horses are just stopping. How about we eat lunch together and share our tales?" of course he doesn't mean to share his taels, just their tales. Thus if she accepts the offer, Lei keeps his money bag on his person and makes sure the stranger eats at a reasonable distance, away from their supply cart.

After the meal ends, if Lei believes this woman is telling the truth, he will give her the other six days of rations before continuing the journey. He doesn't say anything out loud, but he hopes Lan will also spot the behavior of their temporary conversation partner.

If she turns out to be a total liar, Lei will condemn her actions and tell her to do better with her life, and won't give her any more food.

In reply to Lei Feng (msg # 52):

"Okay, I will share my tales," the extravagantly dressed young lady nods as she holds out her open palms to accept any of the rations you offer.

Lan Fei will just shrug when you hand over a few dried biscuits from your ration pack to the young lady, who stands at a distance away as you return to where you horses drink and extremely ravenously wolfs down the dried biscuit you offer to her.

You notice her deliciously consume the food extremely quickly and notice a few crumbs on her cheeks due to the sheer speed at which she ate.

It seems that she was truly starving.

After finishing eating she shares a short tale.

"You are very generous big brother, so I will share with you a secret that I found out recently," she faintly smiles as she speaks.

"Have you seen a statue of a Bodhisattva carved from Salt? Normally you would find them carved from regular stone or wood, but while wandering I stumbled upon a strange cave made of rock salt..."

It seems that this young lady once travelled in a mountainous region southeast of the Empire of Lan, and in a maple forest west of the remote village of Huanli where a strange white maple tree grows, there is a cavernous entrance to a cave of rock salt at the end of which is a large statue of a Bodhisattva carved from the same rock salt. It seems that in the walls of the cave is carved thousands of lines of sutra and the air in the whole area has a strange energetic scent.

She suggests that it may be carved by some reclusive hermit that secluded himself there for aeons as she also discovered the hermit's body in deep meditation encased in rock salt as well - which must mean that he has achieved Nirvana though meditation.


"There, I found the teachings of this hermit. Its useless to me, and I'd rather have food instead of a scroll made of rock salt... Since you're a good person, I'll give it to you."

From her robes she retrieves a strange scroll made of flat sticks of white hued translucent looking stone.

"I'm not sure how exactly how to read it either. Well, at least it can be used as a portable source of salt," she shrugs. "But salt can't fill my belly."

As she is done telling her tale, Lan Fei looks towards you with a rather troubled look as though she can't tell whether the young lady is telling the truth or not. Seeing the scroll seems to confirm her tale however which likely confused Lan Fei as you notice her raised eyebrows as she looks towards the translucent scroll.

As the woman spoke, Lei Feng recalls stories from his youth of immortals who would pretend to be beggars to test the hearts of travellers, and reward them based on their judgement...

Lei wasn't sure if that was what was happening, but even if he was the one who had been being tested, the woman had also passed the test he set in his heart.

Taking the scroll appreciatively, Lei opens his bag and offers his surplus rations to the young lady. "May the Martial Gods bless you in the future." he had never been confident in saying grace or giving blessings, but this was enough for someone who had never trained a day in a monastery and had no monastic status in any sects.

When Lan Fei was ready, Lei would rally their horses and they would set off to continue their journey towards their destination.

"I wonder how this is read... Lady Lan, you're the brains of our group; do you have any ways to interpret these strange teachings?"

Thinking, Lei also adds "If this is more useful to you than it is for me, I will gift it to you. I am not a buddhist cultivator, and so would probably sell such a thing if I could not learn from it."