Group You have been selected by your Daimyo to investigate local rumors of potential war.  Your travels have brought you to the lands of Lord Kunemura.  As you follow the road you come into a rather large village.

Gather Information: DC 15

The Yamada family had served Lord Kunemura from time out of mind, and although they had proven reliable and loyal, they had never distinguished themselves to a degree that would cause them to rise in station.

Goro was young in his service as a Bushi, and had been selected for this task as his had few responsibilities and was free to undertake such an extended journey without much warning or preparation.

He walked, being too poor to afford a horse, although he was armed in the manner of a Samurai and conducted himself as such.

He had not been particularly talkative during the journey, and now he set to work at once, going door to door with an official air and asking direct questions with the tone of a young man who was used to some degree of authority.

In this case it seemed to have worked I. His favor...

09:31, Today: Yamada Goro rolled 19 using 1d20.  Gather Information.

"So... you are reunited" Bayushi Kanpeki said. Yes, the last time he saw the three of them was when they were just children. Ryu didn't speak. It was not expected from him.

"It is time to see what you have learnt." He added and then delivered the mission. Visit Konemura's lands and speak to whoever is to get information about any danger to the unity of the Empire.

Of course... Ryu was not one who had an easy way with people. He will have to trust his friends for that.


OOC 20:37, Today: Soshi Ryu rolled 5 using 1d20.  Diplomacy to Gather Information.

Shosuro Akira didn't mind the walking. He minded the heat. Or at least, the not so frozen lands he had grown unaccoustomed to. When it was his turn to speak, his luck wasn't better than Ryu's.

OOC: 20:14, Today: Shosuro rolled 8 using 1d20.  Diplomacy - Gather Information.

I they ever had a hope to meet the Scorpion Daimyo herself, Bayushi Kanihime, it was crushed when Sakura's father appeared in her behalf. The Bayushi Champion surely was too busy to meet them directly.

Her father didn't treat her any different than the otherss. It was to be expected from him. And Sakura also knew that he was not acting at all.

Sakura had a job to do and she focused on it. Due to her training and her abilities, she was able to find something.

OOC:
21:23, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 22 using 1d20+10.  Diplomacy - Gather Information.
21:24, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 3 using 1d4.  Hours to Gather Information.

Group From your inquiries around the village you are able to gather some information about the area:

Both Kunemura and Shotokami are widely regarded as strong, stubborn and doggedly persistant in pursuit of their goals.  The village and surrounding country side have been mobilized for war.

Lord Kunermra has five children: three sons and two daughters.  The eldest son Kunetachi is heir to the lord's estate and title.  He is 21 years old and resides in the caste with his father as a gunso (commander).  The middle son, Akashi was sent away to be trained and educated.  The youngest Tsumitoshi, is seven years old and lives with his parents in the castle.  The two daughters Mariko and Hatsuko are 5 and 8 years old.

Lord Kunerma's wife name is Midoke.  The villagers adore her for her beauty, kindness and culture a necessary softening of Kunemura's rough edges.

As night approaches you find yourself in the only inn in town.  The Golden Dragon.  This inn is two stories high and well built out of stone and timber.  Once inside you can see a few people sitting at tables eating and drinking.  A waitress just inside tells you.  "Sit where ever you would like someone will be with you shortly."

After seating yourself a young woman about 16 or so approaches your table.  "What would you like to have?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:27, Sun 30 Jan 2022.

Ryu smiles to the young woman. "I will take some fish and rice... also tea, please."
He sits with the others and keeps silence, watching and counting the numbers of troops and the direction they are taking.

OOC:

DM:

Lord Kunermra has seven children: three sons and two daughters.

Five or seven?

OOC: It's five.  Typo.

Sakura also smiles to the woman. "I'll have the same, please." She looks through the window. "There is a lot of people going in and out of the town, don't you think? I hope it will be good for the business." Her voice is sweet, trying to get into the girl's good side.

OOC:
YES!
21:03, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 28 using 1d20+10.  Diplomacy.

Akira also orders the same and waits or the girl's reply, trying to see if her answer is honest or not.

OOC
07:14, Today: Shosuro rolled 19 using 1d20+8.  Sense Motive.

The girl takes your orders and before departing states.  "Yes there is quite a bit of travel today.  The weather is very nice and we are a major travel destination, many people come here to rest before moving on to their next destination.  It's about 2 days to the next sizeable village.  Your food will be served shortly"  With that the waitress leaves.

OOC: You don't feel any deception from her.

After a few minutes pass the waitress returns with your food and drinks.  She places them down on the table before each of you and steps back before bowing to the group and departing.

About 30 minutes go by while you are enjoying your meal and the front door opens and a well dressed man enters.  The owner of the restaurant hurries over and speaks with the man.  After a short conversation the man approaches your table. "Good evening. I hope that you find our humble village to your liking."  The man reaches into his robe and produces a scroll.  He then proceeds to place it on the table before you.  "Your presence is requested at the castle tomorrow morning.  Please present this at the front gate and all will be explained at that time."  After his short statement the man turns and leaves the restaurant.

Once you have finished your meal the waitress approaches your table to begins to clean away your dishes.

Actions

"We will need rooms." Sakura says to the waitress when she approaches to clean away the dishes. "We will stay the night." The smile on her lips is evident.

But she is not happy. At all. When the servant girl goes away, she opens the scroll and reads it. "It seems Lord Kunemura knows of our presence. And I am sure he is not the only one."

Shosuro Akira nods. "I we ever wanted this to be a secret mission, we have been blown away." His voice is low, so only those around him can hear him. "What does the scroll say? Kill anyone who carries this scroll?"

Ryu just shrugs. "Well, if our cover as simple travellers has been blown away, then there is no point in trying to keep it. Let's rest and be presentable for tomorrow morning. Shall we order one room to protect ourselves and a watch order between us four? Or different rooms for our modesty?"

Group The waitress tell you that it will be 2 cp for both the food and a room each.  She then leaves the table with the dishes so that you can be alone with the scroll.

Bayushi You open the scroll which reads: "Please come to the castle tomorrow morning and meet with me.  I am in need of your assistance on an important matter."  It is signed Tsuyokaze.  There is no other identifying marks as to who this person might be.

Group After a few minutes the waitress returns with several keys.  "If you would please follow me"  She leads you to the stairwell which is located near the back of the inn.  She proceeds up a set of stairs to the second floor which contains a wrap around balcony looking down into the main seating area.  Each door is a plain wooden door with a simple lock.  She states "You can each have a room for yourself if you would like or you can share."

Actions

After Sakura tell everyone what is in the scroll and who signs it, she thinks or a while. "My vote is to just sleep together. It will be safer for this night."

Ryu nods. The Soshi also thinks that precaution is best. "That is also my vote. I will have the first watch."

Akira sums his vote. "Before we know for real who is against us, we must watch our back. Tomorrow it will be another day."

Everyone Roll a d4

OOC:
17:18, Today: Soshi Ryu rolled 4 using 1d4.

OOC: 20:20, Today: Shosuro rolled 2 using 1d4.  Roll.

OOC:
09:36, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 3 using 1d4.

Group Your night proceeds quietly and you wake up refreshed the next morning.  There is plenty of time for breakfast and more exploring of the area before your appointment at the castle.

Actions

"All right... We should bathe before meeting such an important lord. Who wants to order a bath first?"
This message was last edited by the player at 10:33, Tue 15 Feb 2022.

"I think that we should go down to have breakfast first. Ask if there is a bathe service and how much is it. And how far or near is the river." Ryu feels his stomach growling.

"If they offer bath service, then I will go firt, while you eat breakfast. That way we will optimize time. I will have breakfast later."

"That is not a bad idea, let's go down and ask for the baths then."

Damn be the day that a lord would see her dirty like a peasant.

Group You head down stair, the common room is rather empty at this time of morning with a few patrons sitting around eating breakfast.  A young man comes up to your group and bows to you "What might I help you with this morning?  We offer breakfast, tea, and other refreshments."


Actions
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:12, Thu 17 Feb 2022.

"Can we have a bath?" Ryus asks to the young man. "We will also need breakfast. My friend here will take a bath first, if possible." He nods to Akira and waits for the reply from the young man.

Group The man bows to you. "Please seat yourselves and someone will be with you shortly."

Turning to Akira "As for the baths, if you please follow me." The man heads off towards the back of the inn and through a back door which leads to a small hallway and another set of doors.  "That is the way to the baths.  You can remove your clothing there and then follow through the there door to the bath. There is a pull rope that will summon help if you require it."  The man bows to you and leaves.

Group After finding a table a young man approaches your table.  "How may I be of service this morning?"

Actions

Akira bows and follows the man and of course, he thanks him for his help. He removes his clothes where he was indicated but he still takes his giant kama with him. He doesn't want to enter a place he doesn't know THAT nude.

He proceeds then to wash his body and relax a little before taking his journeying clothes again. He hopes breakfast will be as delicious as that hot bath. Bai-kins rarely bathed. They didn't need it, swimming in freezing waters and travelling in boats with dragon heads in the middle of the rain. When he was there with them, he missed the hot baths of civilization. Now that he is here, he remembers with fondsness the water surrounded by ice.

No happyness is perfect.

John was a thin giant of a man who had to duck his head a ways to get into the door. Once inside he unbuttoned some odd leather over-dressing before he inclined his head to the woman who spoke to him. "Thank you very much." The seat he chose was in the middle of the room as it was the one spot he was least likely to beat his head on low-hanging light sources.

Once he was sat down he pulled a small box out of his pockets. He held a number of herbs, he was a bit off and needed a good pick up once he got a drink handy. He leaned back and spoke to the lady who let him in. "If the house has any need of alchemy work I will be in town for a bit." Aids to other businesses had been his primary means of coin for a good bit so far.

Only a 10 on gather info

"So, what do you think? I think they want to make sure we don't help the other side. Sadly we don't know what the other side is and who could be instigating this war."

She speaks on a low tone, for only Ryu to hear while she eats her breakfast.


And then the tall pale man enters. "Well, that is not something you see every day."

"I don't know... we will have to see. For now, we are in Kunemura's lands. And will be in front of this... Tsuyokaze, right? That is not the name of neither of his sons either. Perhaps one of the daughters?" Ryu uses the same tone to whisper to Sakura.

He drinks the delicious tea. "We must know the reasons for this war too... those who they will tell to us, and those we must uncover."


He turns when something gets Sakura's attention. "Extremely interesting... perhaps he is one of the keys for this enigma too. We will have to pay attention to this pale man."

Smythe The woman bows to you, "I will bring you some tea and breakfast." She departs and a few minutes later comes back with a bowl of gruel and some tea.  "I will ask the owner if he is in need of work or if he knows anyone who might." She bows again and takes her leave.

OOC: Roll a Perception Check

Bayushi and Shoshi You enjoy your breakfast and make small talk.  There doesn't seem to be very many people in the inn this morning.  After a while you see Akira return from the back room.

Actions

Shosuro You feel very refreshed after your bath, your clothes are where you left them and nothing appears to be disturbed.  You exit the bath area and head back into the main area.  You see your two companions seated where you left them.

Actions

John inclined his head. "Thank you very much." He pulled out two tablets from his gear and put them into his tea. A stimulant to be sure to keep him up for a few more hours, but more importantly, it made for an amazing sweetener. There wasn't much for it but to dine and wait.

In reply to John Smythe (msg # 36):

Perception Check 8

"Come Akira..." Sakura invites the Shosuro. "We were discussing the initial approach to the problem." The Bayushi smiles to the warrior "How was your bath?"

She wants to stay a little more, so she nods at Ryu. He can bathe first. Then Sakura calls for a servant "I heard that troops are movilizing... do you know what is the problem?"

Ryu nods and waits for Akira to come and sit. "My turn then. The food is delicious, Akira. You will find yourself wanting more." He gets up and after a bow to his companions he heads to the baths.

Akira nods and smiles. "Same with the bath. You will enjoy it, I am sure of it." And as Ryu leaves, he notice the white man. "Wait a moment." He says to Sakura.

He takes a few steps towards the gaijin. A pale man... just like the Bai-kins. "You... you are not from here. You are from beyound the Shadowlands, right? Do you come from the frozen sea?"

The warrior wears a helmet that covers half his face. He is also wearing a mithral chainshirt, an armor which isn't from here.

Both of John's eyebrows went up. "Bit over and south from there yes. It was about six months of sailing to get here. I do hope that is not a problem." One of the first things John learned was that people at bars picked fights with the biggest person, and he was always tallest so he had his fair share of black eyes prior to leeching.

"Most people call me John around here. Anyone who knows me, an alchemist by trade. I also am somewhat skilled with mechanical devices." He was just hoping Shosuro didn't want to pick a fight. He was dressed kinda briggandly.

"Not a problem at all." Akira smiled like a happy wolf. He was a warrior, but he was happy. And the source of his happyness was this white man. "Pardon my modals. I am Shosuro Akira." He bows to him, pronouncing his surname before his name as is the custom of this land. "I would like to invite you to our table. I have companions there and I wish we exchange some words." He offers, opening his palm and signaling the table where Sakura is.

"This is Bayushi Sakura. We are travellers too. What has brought you here, John?" Akira will ask him if John decides to join them.

If his luck taught him anything it was to roll with the punches. He had the best worst luck in the world so something horrid would come of this but it would clearly benefit him in some way. "An ultimate desire for coin. I have a unique skill with alchemy but it takes time and coin to get that up to snuff. From explosives to curatives it all takes gold. Not to mention how clostly building traps can be."

He inclined his head as he was introduced, more like he had seen this was something people did during introductions. He was ignorant to the meaning of a bow.

Sakura is going to speak when Akira announces he is going to meet the gaijin. "Sure! I guess..." she just shrugs and sees them talking. Then they come to her table. "Pleased to meet you" Bayushi Sakura bows with a smile. She looks at Akira. She looks at him as if saying "What are you doing, we have to plan our next steps and go to the lord that has sent us the scroll!" with a smile.

Of course, the stranger's words made him thanks to her goddess that she didn't say a word. "Really? So you are selling your skills in this place of the world?"

"To the best of my ability though I am well out of my element. Most people are happy with cures for wounds. If you have any suggestions I am overjoyed to hear them." He set his case next to him. "Just my skills though. Not much else I can sell."

Okami  You have been selected by your Daimyo to investigate local rumors of potential war.  Your travels have brought you to the lands of Lord Kunemura.  As you follow the road you come into a rather large village.

Gather Information: DC 15<b/>

You find yourself in the only inn in town.  The Golden Dragon.  This inn is two stories high and well built out of stone and timber.  Once inside you can see a few people sitting at tables eating and drinking.  A waitress just inside tells you.  "Sit where ever you would like someone will be with you shortly."

<b>Perception Check

Rest of group You are seating around the table discussing the newest member of your group and a new person enters the inn.

Okai Describe your character.

Akira looks at Sakura and then the newcomer. "Well John, maybe we will find your services useful. We have some duties here and I think we will need your skills. We can't promise a lot of money, but I will see that you will be rewarded. I think you will be a great addition to our team. What do you think, Sakura?"

Sakura looks at Akira as if wanting to kill him. A maybe too honest reaction for a Scorpion. But then she thinks and smiles to the pale man.

The guy could have passed as a Yogo any day. Maybe that is why she contemplates the the possibility of not saying "no".

"So, John. I don't know much of alchemy, but I heard some tales. Do you need money before you can make use of your skills? And how much time do we have to wait for you to use your alchemy to prepare curatives?"

That is when her gaze is drawn to the door. Someone new has entered. A Phoenix. A lonely one. What would a Phoenix want here?

Ryu doesn't imitate Akira. He has left his weapons with Sakura and him. He goes unarmed to the bath, but with his armor still doned. Once in the private sanctum of the bath, he proceeds to take off all what he wears and washes himself before stepping into the hot bath. It felt wonderful. And he also can take this time to focus his mind.

A remarkably pretty young lady dressed in pristine white robes entered the inn. She looked tired from hard riding, and perhaps more than a little relieved to have arrived here in one piece. She wore the Mon of the Phoenix Clan over her heart implying that she wasn't a warrior, and indeed the only weapon that she carried was a Tanto tucked into her belt.

"Blessing of the Kami on this place, A room please Innkeeper" her voice was pleasant and that of a Noblewomen who while kind to the people working for her, expected to be obeyed. "Something to eat and drink as well" there was perhaps a hint in the way that she asked it that she was really hungry and thirsty, but it was only a hint. "Perhaps you could advise me as to the location of the Magistrate? I have urgent business with him"



Description: as per description
Gather Info: 17
Perception 9

"That is a good question that needs a complex answer. It goes in stages. Takes me about an hour to get everything ready for day to day use. If I make a quick healing potion that takes just a few seconds, they only last so long."

"The same goes for other battle potions like a true strike or monkey fish potion. Fast but they need to be used right away."

"If you want other alchemy that lasts long and you don't need me around to use... smoke sticks, sun flares, matches, or even the strange things like soul cleanser, night eye oil... that takes time to brew but once made its good forever."

"I do plan to learn how to make out right magic items once coin really gets going."

"But yea. Takes no more time than a Merlin. Just an hour in the morning and I'm set for the day."
This message was last edited by the player at 14:39, Wed 23 Feb 2022.

"And the more time it takes to craft... the more gold you need, right?" Akira thinks and grins. "And you are broke right now."

He pulled out a wooden coin with a queen on one side looking just as foreign as he did. "Used to be wealthy but I've got entirely useless trade coins now. Firestarters is all they are good for."

"But yea. The more it costs the more care it takes to make it. But given time I will be much faster. What takes me days to brew now may take hours in a few months. The more I make the faster I'll get at it."

"That being said, one gold buys a lot of ammunition. And it takes no gold for the quick brew stuff."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 01:04, Thu 24 Feb 2022.

Ryu You head off into the baths.  The water is warm and refreshing.  There is no one in there but yourself.  After you are finished you head back out into the main area of the inn and see your group talking to a tall pale man.

Okimi You take your seat and a young man approaches your table carrying a tray with tea and a bowl of food.  The man bows to you and states "The rooms are upstairs I will show them to you after you have eaten if you would like?"

From your time in town you are able to discover the following info:  Both Kunemura and Shotokami are widely regarded as strong, stubborn and doggedly persistant in pursuit of their goals.  The village and surrounding country side have been mobilized for war.

You feel several pair of eyes on you upon entering the inn but not sure where they are coming from.

Group Acions

"Well... what is your prize for a day full of dangers; John? Or should you come with us; we should pay for every time we use your concoctions?" Sakura finishes her tea and smiles to Ryu. "Soshi Ryu, meet John. A practitioner of alchemy. We are trying to reach an agreement for his services." She may want to delay her bath a little bit more.

John nodded once, "A fair cut of commissions will pay for any quick alchemy like a few healing drafts each day. If you want the longer lasting stuff you order it and pay, I'll brew it up."

"Once I get some money I'll have an open stock."

"Much later and if we get a wagon or something ill put up ten percent of any part of my take on having team alchemy you can freely take from."

"Little stuff just buy me the components.  I won't charge the group for things like smoke bombs or sun rods. But I can't make long lasting alchemy without components."

Ryu bows to the pale man. "My name is Soshi Ryu. Pleased to meet you."
He sits at the table, hearing him, but also noticing where Sakura's eyes were looking. There was a woman there, with the Phoenix mon on her shoulder. This was becoming more and more interesting. What could the Phoenix want here? A man like John could soon find his hands full of gold, if the war was not dodged. But the Phoenix?

Sakura nods at Ryu and then looks at the Phoenix. It seems bath will have to wait.

The member of the Bayushi family stands up. "If you excuse me... I think I have to start another conversation." She apologizes to Ryu, Akira and John. The Scorpion walks to the table where the Phoenix is and bows respectfully to her, looking at her eyes. "It is always a honor to meet another member of a Great Clan. My name is Bayushi Sakura. What is yours?"

Okimi had that guarded look in her eyes that Sakura would recognise. Most people that interacted with the Scorpion clan had it. She scanned his clothes for her Mon to check she was still in good standing with her clan, and whether she was a Warrior

"Isawa Okimi. Shugenja" The last was really needed, her own Mon claimed her as a graduate from the most famous and prestigous shugenja school in the Empire. "It is always a blessing to meet a Scorpion peacefully. Would you perhaps like to take a seat? What brings you here Sakura-san?"
This message was last edited by the player at 06:35, Fri 25 Feb 2022.

Akira nods to Sakura as she gets up. "Ryu, I think this man can help us... What do you think?" His excitement is evident and a little more of what is adecuated for a Scorpion. And from time to time, he cheks that Sakura is allright with the Phoenix newcomer.

John inclined his head to Ryu, "And you sir."

"So my turn. What do you expect from a team alchemist? If there is one thing I have learned from the people here, it's not just in what I can offer but what is expected."

Sakura has a crimson red dress with her clan mon right between her eyes in her black mask. She smiles to the Phoenix. "What a nice surprise, a great shugenja coming from the most faithful clan."

She takes the big metal star with pointy ends strapped to her belt so she can sit. It is not a shuriken. Too big for that.

"It is always a blessing to meet anyone peacefully." She smiles again with her red lips.
"We were just walking by, doing some errands and taking a rest with my friends there. " She points to the group she has been with. "But I noticed you has come alone. Why is a Phoenix shugenja alone here?"

"You honour me too much" Okimi said "My gempukku was but a short time ago, it will be a long time, if ever, before I am a 'great' Shugenda. Part of the answer to your question is that 'I am never alone'. The Kami are with me everywhere. That though wasn't helpful at all, and just me teasing you."

"The short answer to your question is one that the Underhand of the Emperor might be able to assist me with. I exist to serve, and my Daimyo has asked a service of me. That service is to investigate rumours of  war in this place. It's clear from even the time it takes to drink a glass of water that he is right to be worried."

"So I have answered your question, perhaps you can answer two of mine. The first is simple... 'what in the name of Fu Leng is that'." Okimi pointed to the metal star "And the second more interesting... the same question you asked me."

Sakura smiles to the Isawa with her pretty red lips. "And when did you tease me? When you told me you are not a great shugenja yet? Or when you told me you are never alone?" She looks to the sides, playully trying to see the kamis around her.

And then, a she was facing to her left side, she looked at her with the corner of her eye. "And... what does your daimyo expect of you and the kamis if war happens? Because in that regard I was not nor am alone." She looks then to the table where Akira, Ryu and John are talking.

"Now, now now... I hope that the kami who is around you is not the Dark One. Why would a shugenja even pronounce that name in a joke or casual conversation?" She caresses her belt and runs her finger on the star, taking it and balancing it with her finger in the handle right in the middle of it.
"And this? This is something from a far away place. I use it to dance and entertain."

"When I said I was never alone. While true it's not the normal meaning of the words" Okimi was being careful. This was a Scorpion clan member, and for all her prettiness she still wore a mask to hide her intent. And you never knew when the Scorpion was going to sting

There was a smile and a shrug at the 'What does your Daimyo want'. This information flow was going one way at the moment, and Okimi wasn't going to be explaining things like that without some exchange of value. The scorpions spied and took and rarely gave. "Perhaps if you explain your purpose here we could discuss that."  She'd asked and been 'fobbed of'. No Scorpion was ever 'just traveling with their friends'

Perhaps a mildly embaressed laugh at the mention of the name "Perhaps I have been traveling with Bushi too long. Even so the Ninth Kami though does not come when his name his mentioned. He is the saddest story of all of course. So much hatred caused by misunderstanding and deception. There are so many lessons for us all in his tale" she nodded at the star "Nice. Perhaps later in the evening, if you are staying at the inn, it would be possible to see it in use."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:01, Sun 27 Feb 2022.

"I heard some of alchemy. I think it can change the world. Even more than magic, John." Ryu leant on the table. "What we expect? Help. My associates here think you will be a good addition to the group. And given that I haven talked with you way less than you with them I have to trust their judgement. In any case, let me tell you that we don't expect to be safe in a room with alchemical potions in complete order."

John smiled, "Alchemy is not a spectator kind of deal unless you're some kind of a hermit. You have to be out there in the thick of it if you want to learn anything of value." He nodded once, "So, when do we start?"

Bayushi Sakura chuckles.
"So you are a great Shujenga. And given the fame of the Phoenix, your Daimyo surely expects you to stop whatever war is brewing here." No...  there was no need for further discussion on the matter.
Sakura's smile only grows bigger when she mentions that Fu Leng wouldn't come just by a person speaking his name. The Isawa surely has reasons to smile and toy with his name. All Rokugan has.
"Too bad you are not travelling with Bushi anymore. I wonder which Bushi would deny themselves the opportunity of keeping you under their care."

Sakura gyrates the star around her finger. "Maybe I will have the opportunity to offer you a special dance soon. I would enjoy it. Too bad only the Kamis and no Bushi is with you, or I would enjoy it even more."

Akira smiles to John and gives a quick stare to Sakura's back. "As soon as she is ready. Which maybe it will take some time. Let's enjoy breakfast together then and relax a little. Tell me, John. From which land are you from?"

John nodded and settled in. "I haven't run into many people who know of it. Avalon on the land of Theah. We had a ship we thought could sail the whole world. Ended up that we ran into some grand wall of fire that gave no light we could see. We ran until a storm ended our ship. So far as I know I am the only one left and our expedition will be seen as a failure."

"How about you? Is this your home town?"

Shosuro nods at ever word that John says as if he had to remember every detail he says and somehow only his word made him recall.

"No... this is not my home. But it is always good to have someone who can cure when you are traveling around. You was on board for that reason, I am sure."

A flicker of something that was perhaps 'shock' ran over Okimi's face. Just for a moment. Was this Scorpion girl 'flirting' with her? She was! If Okimi hadn't wanted to talk and find out what was going on she'd have stormed out of here with more than a little righteous indignation. Mind you she still hadn't responded to a single question, so Okimi wasn't entirely sure that staying was going to fulfil any purpose other than embaressment.

Okimi didn't really know what to do now. She'd asked twice and got nothing. Third time was the charm perhaps. It was obvious from her body language that if she didn't get a response this time she was off. She tried to ignore the flattery ... which was nice...and the seduction .... which was disturbing, as she asked the last time  "Perhaps " she repeated "you could explain why you are here. What interest the Scorpion clan has to send three of its  ... ah ... seducers and fighters to a potential warzone"

Ryu closes his eyes at the mention of hometown. Yes, he would love to be there now. "And how did you survive the wall of fire?" He wanted to ask. Perhaps the alchemist could invent a way to pass the magical protections of Rokugan.

John was entirely unaware of the other conversation. "To keep up their wellness, brew the liquor, keep the ship topped up, and discover new alchemy anywhere we landed. The land here has been brilliant for that. There is a deep and vast intellectual power here. I've already devised new weaponry!"

"Unsure how I survived it. I was asleep when we hit the barrier. I woke up to fire and hell. I can assume it was the bright burn lantern, some ships use them to light the way and prevent teleportation. But it clearly didn't work."

He opened a book to a page that showed what looked like a wand. In the next image there was a water skin on its end. "Inspired me to make compact survival floats."

"Do you know what the fire wall is?"

Sakura smiles again and lookes straight to her eyes. "Pray tell, why do you think we are seducers and fighters sent by the Scorpion clan? Is it so hard to believe we are just passing by and got caught in a conflict we are not involved?"

Ryu looks at the drawing with his curiosity shining in his eyes. He inspects it for a few seconds.

Time.

He still had some time, but would love to have more of it. "But look at the sun! One would say it will be noon soon!" He says loudly, looking at the window and then looking back to the drawings in the book.

"It is magic. Powerful magic." He says, still looking at the drawing and back to his usual low tone.

"Because you are here" Okimi answered simply "So many of you. And because of the way you are deflecting every question. It's really hard talking to you Sakura-chan. Very hard. You flirt, you divert, but you don't answer the question."

"I would like to see you dance. I would like to talk to you. But I can't because you have a wall in front of you, like the mask on the face, and talking to you is talking to a void. You are all take and no give, and there is thus no point in continuing this. Perhaps if you want to engage in discourse we can talk further, but until then I bid you good day"

"One designed specifically to keep your people away if I remember correctly." Akira adds. "But I agree with Ryu. John are you staying here?"

John shook his head, "Just got into town so not staying anywhere at the moment really."

"Oh, but I have replied to your question. It is you who doesn't believe me. What can I do about that?" She shrugs and with the same smile she stands up. "I'll let you eat your breakfast, then." She bows and goes to the baths, looking at her group in her way. They were right after all.

She undresses and washes her body, of course with her weapon near her at all times. And if there isn't any further problems she returns and smiles to Akira, Ryu and John. "Should we leave now?"

Ryu nods, thanking that it didn't took long. "Yes, I think it is time." He stands up after paying his share of all the services he took. "Want to walk with us, John? Maybe you will have to wait us a little while we discuss some things with someone, but otherwise, it will be better than be bored here."

John picked up his bag. "The sooner we get to work the faster we start making money right? Besides, I could use some sun and Nymph could use a bit of less delicate work. So waiting won't be an issue." He had gotten used to situations like this. Even when it came to things he needed to know, like if the kid got into poison ivy or black lotus. Very different treatment methods.

Okimi gave a polite goodbye to Bayushi. She hoped that perhaps in the future the woman would be more forthcoming, but perhaps that was too much to ask from a scorpion. She settled down to finish her meal

"Then come with us, John!" Akira puts money on the table to pay for his share of the services and takes his green giant kama and follows Ryu and Sakura to the meeting, giving a polite nod to the Phoenix as they pass by.

John nodded and put down enough money for his meal. He picked up his too big bag and pulled off a tricorn hat with two sides that looked almost winged if not for the leather. He then pulled out a book and followed along as his default method of travel was by note taking.

"The Phoenix has been sent here by her daimyo." Sakura begins to talk. "Most likely to preserve peace. I don't know if she knows where to begin, but she is a shugenja and a powerful one for her age. Let's hope her efforts for peace won't be harmful for peace mission." The Bayushi informs the others calmly and as low as possible as she walks to meet with Tsuyokaze.

"She must be, if she was sent here alone." Ryu also also speaks low, but enough for the others to hear. "Have you discovered her next step?"

"More importantly... has she discovered ours?" Akira looks back, just in case.

"She knows we have a purpose here. I don't know what her first step will be, but she will definitely give one. So we must be careful." She turns to John. "In other words, don't go much far from us."

Okimi looked rather sadly at the leaving Scorpions. Yet again their untrusting nature and unwillingness to share had made it impossible to do anything with them. Not one question she'd asked had been answered, they had only answered with questions and deflections.

Still she doubted if they were instigating this, and if they were it would become obvious. She moved around the room to talk to people and ask them what they thought about the upcoming violence and who was responsible.


A natural 20!
17:10, Today: Okimi rolled 27 using 1d20+7.  gather info.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:57, Sat 05 Mar 2022.

John nodded to the masked woman. "My education does not include tactics and subterfuge, so I am more than happy to stay close and follow your lead." He pulled out a small back marble and started moving over and through his knuckles. More to stimulate his brain and keep it calm rather than anything useful.

Okimi You wander around the room politely talking to various people and one gentleman seems more willing to talk to you than the others.  He states "I know what is going on."  He looks around before continuing. "It is not safe to speak about such things in the open.  If you would follow me I know of a quite place that we can speak."  The man gets up and heads off towards the back of the inn.

Actions

Other in the group

Are you still inside or are you heading out?

If inside perception check

If head outside describe Actions

And was this a trap, Okimi pondered to herself. There was every chance it was: 'get rid of this troublesome question asker by taking her outside'. "I'll follow in a minute" she murmured "I'll just see if someone follows you, or reacts to your leaving" If the guy was genuine that would increase her standing in his eyes, she felt, and if he was a fraud setting an ambush... well she'd find out wouldn't she

She followed a little way until she was out of sight of the rest of the room and quietly cast a few spells before following him outside

OOC: I think that Akira, Sakura, Ryu and Johnny are heading to meet this Tzuyokaze guy. I mean, we are walking outside.

In reply to Shosuro (msg # 94):

Confirmed. I thought we started out. He is following the group being the goodest boi he can be.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:48, Mon 07 Mar 2022.

Ryu keeps walking.

OOC:
Full: Double move to where Tzuyokaze is.

OOC: Yep Bayushi is out, walking to the palace

Okimi: You wait a few moments and don't see anyone follow the man towards the back of the inn.  You are able to stop and cast your spells without interruption. Once outside you see it's an alley way that leads to a somewhat quite street.  You can see a few people walk by with what looks to be a vendor right across the street from where your alley stops.  The man is waiting for you at the end of the street.

Actions

Rest of group: You make your way outside of the inn. The streets seems to be very crowed this time of morning.  You see a wide variety of people making their way up and down the street, some have bags and others are not carrying anything.  There doesn't seem to be any pattern to the flow of traffic that you can see.

You know from your movements that the palaces is back around the inn and towards the left.

Actions

John kept up, "Right, so I am to wait out here? I don't want to cause some sort of hell so if you're ready I'll tuck in and do a bit of mixology."

Okimi cast another spell in one of the side streets. This was very hazardous... she was on her own... But at least she had the Kami to help her at times like. At that thought she pulled a little box from her belt and released a little butterfly, which flittered around for a few moments before settling on her shoulder

Okimi watched for just a few moments to see if there were any 'stationary people' who would come into the alley behind her before entering. "I am here" she said stating the obvious "I am surprised you felt it necessary to come this far, but let's talk. Perhaps there is a way we can help each other"

Shosuro Akira looks around as he walks to the Palace. Just to see if there is something unusual.

"Yes, John. The firewall was casted to keep your kind away. I think it is best if you are not seen for some people."

OOC:
18:47, Today: Shosuro rolled 19 using 1d20+10.  Perception Check.

John nodded once and winked past the bandana he wore over his face for when the black powder backfired and he ate smoke. "Brewing it is then." He set down in some nook out of the way so he could be overlooked and passed by. Little more than a man sitting down fiddling with a gadget.

He did, however, pull out a wax pill and push it into his cheek above his top row of teeth.

Bayushi Sakura walks to the gates of the castle as she was instructed.

She nods at John. It is better if he stays out of this.

Ryu also follows Sakura and Akira to the castle.

Okimi The man bows to you and reaches into his vest.  He pulls out a small item about the size of a silver dollar (2 inch diameter) and shows it to you.  You recognize the symbol.  Your not sure of the sect but you know it belongs to a member of your clan.  "Forgive the subterfuge my lady." As the man bows to you.  "These are dangerous times we live in and I wanted to make sure that you are the right person."  The man gives as small signal and a the stall you are standing next to opens and a woman steps out.  She is wearing robes of your clan but noting else to identify her.  She also bows to you.  "Greetings my lady.  If you would please follow us, we will deliver you to your destination."

Actions

Others

As you approach the main gate to the castle, you see Onion bulb towers reached for the sky besides many-tiered pagodas. A many-tiered wall surrounded the palace on all sides, giving an impression of stability and power. The front gate is guarded by two rough looking men.  As you approach the gate a guard steps forward.  "You there halt, what is your business?"

John Roll a stealth check

Actions

Okimi checked the symbol carefully. These were dangerous times. And there were scorpions around noted for their abilities in forgery and deceit. It looked good to her though, and she gave the man a radiant smile and  'followed us' as requested

Sneaky: 5

John sat down out of the way and just sat back to read a book. Part of his alchemy was from his own aura, rest and relaxation was a vital part of that. He was working on a formula for curing critical wounds.

He was out of the way but he was still as tall as many people around him. So he still stood out like a big friendly giant.

Ryu waits for Bayushi Sakura to speak. She has the scroll after all.

The Shosuro also waits for Bayushi Sakura to speak.

"We have been summoned here." Bayushi Sakura looks at the guards and shows them the scroll.

Okimi You follow the other who lead you through a vast network of alleyways.  Eventually you reach a wall and the lady presses a few spots on the wall and part of it opens.  You cannot see what is beyond because of the darkness.  The woman gestures for you to follow her.  She places your hand on her shoulder and proceeds forward.  You walk about 100 steps or so and you can feel her stop for a moment.  She then proceeds forward again into the light.  You enter a well appointed room.  "Please wait here, someone will be with you shortly"  With that the lady bows and departs the same way that she entered.

Others The guard looks your group over along with the scroll.  "Please come with me.  And bring your skinny friend, who is attempting to hide." He points to John.  After he gathers you all he leads you inside the castle into a well appointed room where you see the woman you were speaking with in the inn standing there as well.

All Before anyone can say anything a round man with voluminous robes in many bright hues, predominantly Lord Kunemura's family colors enters the room.  His hair is perfectly arranged and glossy black, and his plump fingers absentmindedly twist his long feather thin mustache.  His face is sheened with sweat, and his voice is high and nasal as he speaks.  "Many thanks for agreeing to meet with me.  Evil is afoot in Lord Kunemura's house and must be dealt with most expeditiously, and most discreetly.  I trust you are aware of the current military situation, with Lord Shotokami's army marching on our castle.  Our scouts tell us he will arrive in two days"  He pauses for a moment letting this news sink in.

"I cannot stress enough the delicacy of what I am about to impart to you... Lord Kunemura's family daisho has been stolen from his very chambers.  I'm sure you can understand the effect this would have on our loyal troops if this were made known.  Take this scroll.  It gives you the authority to make whatever inquiries around the castle you require.  If you are able to return the swords before the enemy arrives you will have my, and Lord Kunermura's utmost gratitude."

The scroll he hands you simply states: The bearer of this scroll may ask whatever questions deemed necessary in a matter "directly related to Lord Kunemura's well being"

Actions

Well now he had to come along. John kept his mouth shut, his gunpowder mask up, his hat on, and his eyes open. The last time he had been inside any kind of lord's castle with any kind of samurai, the turtle had tried to sell him to the local lord.

Daisho... it translated to big-little. Important swords, the importance was a little lost on John but there was a point they had been stolen. He would write the thought line tree out when the official wasn't around. Was it rude to write notes in their presence? Better to not to...

This message was deleted by the player at 17:54, Mon 14 Mar 2022.

"I understand the problem you are facing, friend." Sakura takes the scroll and then looks at John, Akura and Ryu before continuing. "What I am not sure about is why we should be involved. Outcomes are uncertain in wars. Why should we help you if you are already hindered and your enemy is not?"

Akira chuckled when they discovered John. He waited for him to join him.

Once inside, he looks at the Phoenix and gives her a nod, acknowledging her presence. "You are Tsuyokaze, right? Surely this war didn't start for a stolen Daisho. Tell me what happened. And your position in Lord Kunemura's government."

OOC
Just in case it is necessary:
16:20, Today: Shosuro rolled 11 using 1d20+8.  Sense Motive.
Damn

Okimi was also interested in the questions. Among other things she struggled to see how helping this clan regain the honor it had just lost would help any peace. There was no harm in 'utmost gratitude' assuming they weren't slain to keep the secret of the terrible blow to the Kunemura family, but she wasn't here for personal power or glory, she had a different mission.

Worse... it looked unpleasantly as though someone had either stolen Pheonix clan sigils and brought her here under false pretenses. Or couldn't be bothered to tell her what was going on. All in all the situation sucked

At times like this waiting was often better. She gave a polite nod to the Scorpions, a slightly deeper one ... the bow that said 'I have no idea who you are, or what you are to my family, but I might as well be polite' to the unnamed man at the front. Good questions had been asked. She would wait.

Ryu also nods to the Phoenix and stands a little behind Bayushi Sakura. After all, he is Soshi and she is Bayushi. He also wants to ask some questions but that would be after Sakura's and Akira's ones. They had made some very good points.

OOC: The man who stands before you is Tsuyokaze, he is Lord Kunemura's chamberlain.

All Tsuuokaze looks over the group and settles on Sakura.  "I heard that you are the ring leader of this group.  It is no surprise that you question my reasoning for asking you here to help in this matter.  I would expect nothing less."  Looking at the others before answering.  Reaching into his robes Tsuyokaze pulls out a scroll.  "This should answer your questions as to why you should help."  He tosses the scroll to you and on the wax seal is the symbol of the scorpion clan. "Take your time to read it if need be.  I will wait."

Actions

Bayushi Sakura takes the scroll without a word and begins to read it. "Whatever this is, it won't answer the question why she would help." Her looks at Isawa Okimi for a brief moment before casting her eyes on the scroll.

Okimi coughed gently "I am not of 'this group'" she said "As you can see I am from the Phoenix clan. While I have no problems working with the Under Hand of the Emperor on suitable affairs, I already have a mission from my Daimyo and honour compels me to say that I must continue on that mission. "

Ryu hears the Phoenix and looks at her. "Does you duty with your Daimyo collide with Lord Kunemura's... well being?" He asks her, remembering the words in the first scroll.

"Not at all. It just requires me to be elsewhere" Okimi answered "And I am a creature of duty"

Ryu nods to the Phoenix shugenja. "And if you are required to be somewhere else and you are a creature of duty... why are you here, getting word of something that would shackle the morale of Lord Kunemura's troops and taint his honor?"

"So speaks the Scorpion. The sting in the tail of aggression and vitriol with no basis" Okimi said, her face impassive "The poisoned tongue that spreads doubts and insults. The simple answer is 'no'. The longer answer is not for you"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:56, Tue 15 Mar 2022.

"Interesting... neither of my questions could be replied by a simple yes or no." Ryu stood at his place. "So far, I never insulted anyone or spreaded doubt. I simply voiced my doubts, my questions. You seem so... uninterested of the problems of Lord Kunemura to be here. Why are you so in the defensive when someone asks you questions which answers are not yes or no?" He stops and bows and retreat a little more behind Sakura. "My apologies. Your words are not for me. I get it now."

He looks to Lord Tsuyokaze and shrugs. "Perhaps they are for Lord Shotokami?"

Okimi almost laughed at the way Soshi squirmed and weaseled his words back to being insulting.  "I see you have your clan's technique of trying to cause conflict and aggression between others no matter the situation" she said "You do it well. Unfortunately it makes it difficult to talk to you because no matter what is said you will twist and turn it. A character flaw that you can perhaps work on" she gave him a polite bow that clearly meant 'I have tried to help you, but suspect you will ignore it'.

She turned to the man in front of them "Earlier there was a phoenix clan token shown to me which is why I came. It would be helpful if the meaning and provenance of that could be explained, although since you showed the Scorpion clan the luxury of secrey and privacy" she gestured to the scroll "It would be nice if that same courtesy could be offered"

"The Phoenix are regarded as wise people who could never fall in deception. I offer you my gratitude, then Phoenix lady. For if you consider the twists and turns this humble Scorpion could do to your words too difficult for you to handle or sort out, then I truly, with a couple of short and simple questions, could achieve a deed that only the most experienced Scorpions could..."

He bows again.

"Making the Phoenix that can fly high in the sky and burn whatever it touches try to hide below the pebbles, where darkness offers secrecy and privacy."

"Not at all" Okimi said "While I try to avoid deceit and deception as much as possible, I am but a humble student in my clan's arts. I have spent my life focusing on duty, healing and nuturing. I can see you have spent your time in the traditions of your own clan. Learning how to twist a kind word into a poisonous sentence, learning how to turn words of duty and honour into suspicion and derision. I have to thank you for this fine opportunity to learn more about these less desirable aspects of your clan at first hand from such a master of them" she gave a deeper bow of gratitude

"Oh... but your words were not kind, were they? No, you accused me of spreading poison and insults from the first moment. We don't know your duty either. You have avoided deceit and deception for so long in your life... why starting using them now? Because those are your attempts to push the conversation to your thoughts about my clan, instead of offering an answer to all of us. You are a dutiful person. Your duty is not with this mission. What is your duty, you who knows so much about our mission and Lord Kunemura's problem?" Ryu looked at her straight to her eyes.

"Okimi, now you hold a secret. A very important one. I am sure Lord Tsuyokaze will want to know what you want to do with it. Help him... or running back to your Daimyo?"

She keeps reading the last scroll with the Scorpion mon. She doesn't even look at her.

"Ah now we have the words of vitriol again" Okimi bowed to Soshi "Yes I turned your attacks on me back on yourself. I have only reflected back to you what you have offered. Your opening words accused me and thus you set the tone of the conversation. This is of course the downside to your aggressive tactic: even reflected aggression is unpleasant.  I was simply not willing to accept your Scorpion tactics. And I am still not."

"As for the secret. It has been entrusted with me. If I was a Scorpion, Lord Tsuyokaze would indeed need to worry. In fact I am sure that he does. Fortunately I am from the Phoenix clan and thus that worry would be unwarrented. I am sure of course that being Scorpions you will follow your usual tactics and amplify that worry... that is your way" she bowed again "I prefer a simpler way. One of duty and honesty"

"You accuse my questions as aggressive when they only seeked to calm Lord Tsuyokaze's mind. From all of us, you are the only one who spoke against helping him. We just asked why we should. His answer lies in the scroll that has been given to us. But you dismissed Lord Tsuyokaze's words so far. And now you are dismissing his good judgement because he trusts the Scorpion clan enough to trust us this service to him and his lord. We ask for honesty from the one who proclaims to have it. So far we didn't get it."

Ryu nods to her. There has been enough bows.

Sakura: You read the scroll.


Group Tsuyokaze yells "Enough of your bickering, I was hoping that the group of you would be able to settle your difference for the good of all but I see that that is impossible."  He reaches once again into his vest and pulls out another scroll and tosses it to Okimi.  "This should settle any dispute."

Okimi You catch the scroll, on the scroll is your clan seal.  Opening the scroll you read.

Group
Sense Motive

09:15, Today: John Smythe rolled 21 using 1d20+1.  Motives? Rolled a 20

John was just looking back and forth as it wasn't his place to speak up. That phesant feather in his tricorn hat dusting half moons on the wall behind him.

Ryu bows to Lord Tsuyokaze and slowly walks to Sakura's side to read the scroll too.

Okimi put the scroll away "That will be fine" she said. She was rather suprised it hadn't been handed over before. Without it she had no interest in being close to the others "Perhaps we should attempt to be polite to each other" she suggested to the Scorpions "If you try to be pleasant and polite then I will try and be nice to you". She wasn't sure it was possible: the Scorpions were called that for a reason. But perhaps they would surprise her... anything was possible

"My knowledge of this kind of investigation is low. It seems sensible though to start with the obvious questions. Such as" she marked them off with her fingers

• Can we have a detailed description. Yes it's a Diasho, but what is the hilts made of, what do the guards look like, and are there markings on the blades
• Who saw it last
• What is know about its disappearance
• Can we talk to the people that saw it last
• Can we visit the room it disappeared from
• Are there any clues

"You try to be nice and polite. And if your succeed, we will try too." Akira says with his arms folded while he waits for Sakura and Ryu to read the scroll. As far as he saw and heard, the Phoenix is the one who should prove herself.

OOC
19:57, Today: Shosuro rolled 23 using 1d20+8.  Sense Motive.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:57, Wed 16 Mar 2022.

Sakura handles the scroll to Ryu and Akira.


"She is right. But also there are exceptional made katanas. And then magical katanas. Was this Daimsho special besides the exceptional cratmanship and carrying the honor of the family?"

Okimi ignored the expected rudeness and challenge from the Scorpions. She rather hoped that the aggression and vitriol would diminish now that Lord Tsuyokaze had spoken

Ryu takes the scroll and opens it...

"Your group will help discover what happened to the daisho and report it to Lord Kunermura.  But whatever secrets you discover you will keep to yourself and report it back to me.  The scroll has the mark of the Scorpion clan." He reads it aloud and looks at the scroll in the hands of Okimi.

"Similar meaning" Okimi said nodding to her own appreciating that she had been told. Perhaps that was their 'olive leaf' indicating that relationships could be more reasonable. She hoped so. She waited for the answers to the questions so that they could begin

"We should begin by inspecting the place where the Daimsho was." Ryu looks at Lord Tsuyokaze.

Group: "To answer your questions... The katana's hilt is wrapped in leather, granting it a comfortable grip, and a large pearl was mounted in the jaws of a dragon's head on the pommel.  The katana's sheath was made from the hide of a dragon with slate-gray scales that flashed incessantly in hues of blue, silver, and violet.

It was last see last night before the Lord and Lady went to bed.  You may speak with my Lord, I was told to show you to his room where the items disappeared from.  As far as clues go that is what you are here to discover and follow.  If I could I would do this myself.  If you would follow me I will take you to my Lord."

Actions

John opened a book and started making a sketch of the sword as it was described. He had a fast hand and good eye. "Um, I am going to presume that meeting a lord is far different here. So Imma keep my mouth shut and my eyes off them."

"As a side note is there any way I can get my hand on a wooden pole that is at least ten hand-spans long?" He had no idea if they used the imperial or metric system.

"I am sure you think Lord Shotokami is behind this. But since it is unlikely that he has come all the way here to steal the Daisho himself... What is the security of your lord's bedroom?" Sakura follows Tsuyokaze leaving the Phoenix behind.

Jonh Based on you Sense Motive: You have a feeling that Tsuyokaze might be hiding something.

Shosuro Based on your Sense Motive: You know that Tsuyikaze is hiding something.   Do you want to ask him about it before seeing Lord Kunermura?

Group Tsuyokaze turns to John "Yes outlander you should keep your mouth closed and only speak when spoken to.  We should be able to find you a pole that meets your requirement."  Turning to Sakura "The room where the daisho is kept has many defenses.  I will not reveal them to you as it is not my place.  The Lord is this way."

Actions

John inclined his head, "Thank you kindly." leaning in close got him close enough to whisper quietly to Sakura, "I think there is more."

Ryu walks to the group to meet Lord Kunemura.

"Lord Tsuyokaze. Are you sure that you have told us all you know about the dissapearance of the Daisho?" Akira walks straight behind him, his gaze piercing the back of his neck.

She hears what John whispers. "Yes, Lord Tsuyokaze. Is there anything else we need to know about this case?"

Group Tsuyokaze looks at each one of you in the face before continuing.  "I know exactly who the thief is.  Hanashi, my lord's historian, is missing this morning.  One can only surmise that he is somehow responsible, and has fled to preserve his miserable life.  I am sure you will agree with my conclusion when you see his room.  I will answer no more questions, my lord is waiting for you.  Follow me"  With that Tsuyokaze continues down the hallway and stops in front of two doors guarded by two Yojimbo.  "My lord will see you now."

The yojimbo open the doors.  The room is dark.  The great lord sits in silence on his dais, with grim armor plated yojimbo sitting on either side of him.  Many eyes watch with careful scruyiny as you cross the room and seat yourselves on the tatami mats at a respectful distance.  Their faces grim.

Lord Kunemura is large man.  You know from your questions and history that: he is known for his fighting prowess and credited with the rise in the power of his family during his rule.  He is gruff with those he considers friends and openly hostile towards his enemies.

As soon as you are situated, he orders his yojimbo to leave the room.  When you are alone with him, he speaks with a voice like dry gravel.  "When I awoke this morning, the stand that holds my ancestral swords was empty.  My chambers are constructed with nightingale floors; no one may enter without the floorboards alerting me to their presence.  It is a terrible thing that Haashi has done.  I had always thought him a loyal servant.  Strange how men can hide their hearts with silence.  If you can recover the swords, and bring me the head of the man who stole them, you will have my undying gratitude.  But be warned, if you reveal to anyone what has happened, I will have your heads."

Sense Motive DC 15

Actions
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:43, Wed 23 Mar 2022.

Did not hit that dc sense motive

John kept his eyes down and his mouth shut. He did not trust it was the historian just yet. It was far too easy of an answer for such a object to go missing. Most book worms are not also highly skilled in sneakery and nabbery.

He was kinda happy he requested the ten foot pole. He was gonna have to poke the ceiling.

"I understand" Shosuro Akira bows. "So the sword has alwas been here with you. While you was sleeping. And you didn't notice anything till this morning."

He walks around, first looking at the stand and then trying to notice anything odd. Anything that could help them.


OOC: Fail!
12:05, Today: Shosuro rolled 12 using 1d20+8.  Sense Motive DC 15.
Success?
12:24, Today: Shosuro rolled 17 using 1d20+10.  Perception check.

"I don't understand..." Ryu rubs his chin. "The thief could get here, take the Daisho and leave without being noticed. Why didn't he or she killed you too?" He looks to Lord Kunemura. "It would be so easy. Two mortal wounds to your family instead of just one."

OOC: Yes!
20:35, Today: Soshi Ryu rolled 16 using 1d20+2.  Sense Motive check.

"What can you tell us about Hanashi, Lord Kunemura? Does he have a family? Did he live in this palace? Did he behave strange lately? Has he ever visited your chambers?" Sakura asks after the Lord answer Ryu's interesting questions.

OOC: For claification you are seated in the throne room not lord Kunemrua's bedroom where the Daisho is kept.

Success for Sense Motive: Lord Kunemura is shaken by the theft of his swords.  By allowing them to be stolen, he has dishonored his family and his ancestors.  He wants to minimize the damage this might do to his troops morale if news gets out.  Many believe that seppuku is the only acceptable atonement for the loss of the swords.

Sakura Lord Kunemura turns to answer your question.  "Hanashi has been a mute all of his life.  He lives in the palace.  I can have you escorted there if you wish.  No he has not acted strangely and yes he has been to my chambers many times in the past."

Shoruro We'll use your perception check for the Lord's room if the group goes there or at some other time of your choosing if not.

Actions

"All right. Let's go there to Hanashi's quarters. I pressume your wife and your sons and daughters are all right then?" Ryu asks Lord Kunemura as he walks to the historian's room.

John gathered his things and followed along, doing his best to not trip over something or to start a war by saying something silly.

"Did Hanashi also have friends and enemies in your court, Lord Kunemura? Some things can be learnt from a man contrasting the opinions of friends and foes. Also, what do you know of his origins?" Sakura doesn't want to be seen as having a prejudice for or against the historian but it is very rare that a sleeping agent would sleep for so long.

Shosuro Akira follows the group in silence. Everyone has made good questions.

OOC: All right

Group You follow Kunemura to the room of Hanashi.  This modest room is in shocking disarray.  The tatami, nightclothes, and blankets are strewn across the floor.  The small writing table is knocked askew, with ink spilling across the polished surface.  The daisho stand is empty.

"To answer your questions.  Hanashi was my favorite confidant and councilor.  He has been a part of this family his whole life.  He was born here and took over after his father retired."

Perception checks

Actions

A 9. The dice roller is unkind today.


20:10, Today: John Smythe rolled 16 using 1d20+7.  Survival. for looking at the comings and goings.

John started looking up and checking the ceiling. One, because no one ever looks up so he likes to check the up first. And second, if the floor made a sound if someone walked on it, John himself would find a way to come down from on high to avoid issues.

"Very strange... What would happen here?"

Ryu begins to investigate, trying to sort the documents.

OOC
Hanashi's quarters was in the same place where the Daisho was?
Wiii!!!
10:17, Today: Soshi Ryu rolled 21 using 1d20+2.  Perception.

"It seems as if there was a fight here. Was Hanashi a violent man?" Sakura moves her eyes, trying not to move much as to not corrupt the scene. "Did he know sign language?"

OOC:
Nah... not gonna roll here. I can't defeat Ryu's roll. LOL

Akira enters the new room without a word, he instead focuses on finding whatever clue that is available. However, Sakura made a good point. This doesn't seem to be the kind of room a historian that has the trust of his lord would live.

OOC:
I will reserve my spot check. Ryu's is more than enough, I think.

Group Anyone with perception 15 or above you notice the following information:

The floors in this room are not nightingale floors.

John: Looking up you notice oOne of the ceiling tiles has been disturbed.

Ryu: The scrolls on the writing table are mundane descriptions of current events in the castle, supply inventories, troop counts, and the like.

When you search the wardrobe you find a hidden scroll, which appears to be Hanashi's personal journal.

Sakura "No Hanashi was not a violent man, he communicated through writing.  If you'll excuese me I have a war to prepare for.  If you have any other questions find Tsuyokaze that is what he is for."  Lord
Kunemura leaves you all to further your investigation.

There are plenty of servants around to ask questions of and other room to investigate.  Just let me know who you want to talk to or where you want to go.

Actions

"I think I have a point of entry here. Unless you guys pull ceiling tiles out for smoke hatches or something." He pointed up at the ceiling bit. "If the floor is lava enter through the ceiling. The dust has been disturbed from that point at there is a line showing where it settled different from the original space. What is above this floor?"

"I think we found something here." Ryu says and unbounds the scroll to read it.

Akura looks up. "Only one way to find out." He calls for one of the servants to bring a ladder.

John nodded once, "Once the ladder gets up there Ill have a look see for any suprises left behind. If it's not a gas trap or something it may be best to just set any traps off directly."

"But we will see."

Group: You are currently in Hanashi's room.  Every samurai is going to have a daisho in their room.  This set belongs to Hanashi.

Ryu: Reading the scroll gives you the following information:  Hanashi is extremely loyal and dedicated to Kunemura.

The animosity between Hanashi and Tsuyokaze is evident.  Hanashi believes that Tsuyokaze is jealous of his position.

Sense Motive

Akura: You call for a ladder.  After a few minutes one of the servants brings a ladder, bows and steps out of the room.  You set it up below the disturbed tile.

John: You head up the ladder.

Perception check

Actions

I rolled a 1 on the survival to see if someone came through. And a 1 on the perception check. Double ones. I am so very happy that I said I was going to use the pole to open the ceiling bit before I ever rolled. X.X

John got up there. Took a look around, but was clearly not on his best game. There was a lot going on and your first time out with new people. Not to mention the last group he was with tried to sell him to the local lord.

He started his way back down, "Nothing clear cut. Let's get that pole over here so we can push up the section from a safe distance. Um, if there is a gas trap it could fill the room. May want to back up."

Sakura peeks on the scroll. "On a second thought, let's not talk to Tsuyokaze."

OOC:
07:21, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Perception.

"On the contrary. This is the perfect moment to talk with him. You talk with the servants. See what you can find in their words. Also, try to find Lord Kunemura's wife and children. Ask them about Hanashi but also about Tsuyokaze. We need to know who we are dealing with. Tell the servants that you are investigating the dissapearance of Hanashi."

Ryu looks at the Shosuro then.
"After you help John, I will need your help. We are going to interview Lord Tsuyokaze."

Akira nods to Ryu and helps John in seeking any traps. If he finds any, he informs John.

Then he goes with Ryu to meet Tsuyokaze.

OOC:
12:24, Wed 23 Mar: Shosuro rolled 17 using 1d20+10.  Perception check.

Sakura nods and tries to meet as many servants as possible. She will also try to meet the Lady and her children.

OOC:
07:28, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 13 using 1d20+10.  Diplomacy Gather Info.
07:29, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 1 using 1d4.  hours.
Should I roll separated for the nobles?

John and Akira You look into the space above Hanashi's Room, you don't find any traps but you do see a footprint in the dust on the rafter just beyond the disturbed tile.

Ryu You wait patiently for John and Akira to finish in the attic.

Sakura You speak with many of the servants and discover: Many of the servants are frightened to enter the deepest parts of the castle foundations, because of unexplained disappearances.  The servants have reported the disappearances, but no one believes them.  OOC: Which nobles do you wish to speak to?  There is Kunetachi he is the Oldest Son and Heir.  There is also Midoke, the Lady of the Castle.

Actions

John nodded, "Yup, whoever it is thinks like me. We have a footprint up here. One moment." John removed his right glove showing that under, not on, his finger nails held a number of odd markings like tattoos. He pulled one of his stir sticks made of softwood and got as close to a measurement as he could of the foot. He then pressed his thumb nail into the wood to mark the stick.

Once back down he broke the stick at the marking he made. "That is as close to the foot size of whoever was up there. I assume servants don't go in the areas up there?" He cut two more of his stir sticks to match the footprint measurement. "If up there isnt a place anyone goes we need to update the others and then see if we cant track where they went."

After an hour, Sakura return to the group. "We have problems. Not only above, but also below." She looks to both sides before continuing. "Servants have been dissapearing lately. They reported the dissapearances but noone cares. They are servants after all. I will interview Lady Midoke next." She dissapears and asks a servant to tell her where is the Lady of the castle.

"Well done Smythe John. You should come with us now. We will have a little talk with Yusokaze." Akira takes the wood and smiles as he goes to Yusokaze's room with Ryu and John.

John shrugged. "It was all Akira. I just thought it would be what I would do. If the floor isn't an option come in from above. " servants vanishing had a bad vibe of something more than just espionage.

"Do we follow tracks or wait? I'm no ranger but its dusty up there. I don't like splitting the pack if people are being vanished." Vampires? Sacrificial magic? Perhaps a rebellion?

"Wait... we have a measurement of the footprint. Let's find Hanashi's footwear and see if it fits." That could give a light of what is going on.

"Sakura can take care of herself. Come with us now, John. We will meet Yusokaze and you can't be left alone here."

"Understood, one moment." He made sure to take one of the spare bits of wood to get the width of the footprint and bound the two bits to make a cross for a full measurement. He then chased after Soshi Ryu. Back to being quiet and overthinking everything under the sun.

Before leaving, Ryu takes his time to search for one of Hanashi's socks or boots to compare it with the measurements that Johny got.

OOC:
11:42, Today: Soshi Ryu rolled 12 using 1d20+2.  Perception check.

Sakura You head out of the room and find the nearest servant.  The young lady bows at your request and leads you down a short hallway.  Before you is a closed door, the servant knocks and waits a few seconds before you hear a voice from inside bidding you to enter.  The servant opens the door and bows to the woman inside before retreating.  As you enter the room, you see what was once a young and beautiful woman but has seemed to age before her time.  This is the lady of the house.

OOC: Roll Sense Motive along with your post.

Ryy Akira, and John You leave Hanashi's room after gathering your evidence, including a pair of socks from Hanashi.  You find a servant who bows to you both and takes you to meet with Yusokaze.  He is sitting at a desk as the servant shows you in.  The servant then bows and leaves the room.

Roll Sense Motive along with your post.

Before meeting Yusokaze, Ryu compares the sock he found with the measurements of the footprints that John found. That way, he knows what he is dealing with.

Once he knows if they match or not, he meets Yusokaze.

"Lord Yusokaze. The enemy has a long grasp if whoever who took the Daisho is under your command. I doubt it will be the only one. Besides Hanashi, do you suspect of anyone else? Has anything strange besides the dissapearance of the Daisho happened recently?"


OOC:
14:46, Today: Soshi Ryu rolled 10 using 1d20+2.  Sense Motive.

John followed along, keeping his mouth shut and his eyes roaming. He partly thought that each room may have access to that ceiling space but it would be rude to check.


23:45, Today: John Smythe rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  motive.

Sakura bows to Lady Midoke and ceremoniously sits in front of her.
"Lady Midoke, I am sorry we meet in this circumstances. I will need your help to solve this problem. How good have you known Hanashi? Have you know of anything strange around the castle? Maybe the Daisho and Hanashi are not the only thing that have dissapeared or suddenly appeared lately?"

OOC:
Lie to me
16:15, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 6 using 1d20+3.  Sense Motive.

Shosuro Akira accompanies Ryu and John to Yusokaze's quarters. He hears what the man has to say.

OOC: I am lucky!
21:05, Today: Shosuro rolled 22 using 1d20+8.  Sense Motive.

Ryu: You compare the sock to the measurement that John took.   They are not the same size.   You head to talk with Yusokaze."I assume that you have been to Hanashi’s room and followed the evidence that clearly shows that he is responsible for the theft.   No, he is my only suspect.  I have other things to do with my time. That is why you are here to discover what has happened."

Akria: You get the sense that Yusokaze’s his anger against Hanashi is deeper than this incident.  What has caused this is something that has not been brought into the open as of yet.

Sakura: Midoke states “I have known Hanashi my whole time in the palace.   I have no idea who has committed such a foul deed, but I know in my heart that is not Hanashi.  He is too kind and loyal to do such a thing regardless of what Yusokaze may believe.   Nothing strange has occurred that I am aware of.  You may ask Yusokaze he runs the house or maybe some of the servants.”

Actions

Ryu prefers to keep silence... for now.
"So... you didn't hear of anything strange lately? Nothing at all?" He keeps pressing, just in case, he agrees that the servants told them about the dissapearances.

"You seem to have Hanashi in high esteem, Lady Midoke." Sakura looks at her, wondering how high she esteems the historian. "What is your opinion of Yuzokaze? Also, I will need to talk with your sons."

John kept his hands at his side but hummed an Avalonian tune as he looked about. It was unlikely that he was going going to be able to get close to anything in the room with Yusokaze but he did first look at the man's feet to get a rough judgment from where he stood. Never knew unless you looked.

If he couldnt see Yusokaze's feet at a distance he would just take note of anything that was large enough to stow a sword. He didn't expect it to be stowed here but a transition place was a maybe.

Shosuro Akira hears Yusokaze's reply to Ryu's question.

He also tries to spot if Yusokaze's feet, or his footwear if it is visible, would match John's measurements.

OOC:
17:06, Today: Shosuro rolled 14 using 1d20+8.  Sense Motive.
17:07, Today: Shosuro rolled 24 using 1d20+10.  Perception check.

Ryu, John and Akira You look at Tsuyokaze's feet, they do not match the size of the print that you found in the attic space above Hanashi's room.  After continuing pressure from your question about the disappearance of servants, "Yes I have heard that some of the servants have run away bu that is all."

Sakura "Yes Hanashi is a good and loyal subject who has helped run the castle for many years.  Yuzokaze dose his job well. My oldest son, Kuetachiis here in the castle somewhere.  He is probably learning his lessons, he is the heir to the lands after my husband is gone. My middle son Akashi was sent away to be trained and educated.  I'm sure one of the servants can lead you to him."

Actions

"I guess you didn't do much about them, then? Not even an investigation of why did they run away? Perhaps it is something usual in this palace?" Ryu is curious about other things too. "So... what is your opinion of Hanashi, Lord Tsuyokaze? Besides the obvious fact that he is a thief. What was your opinion of his persona, before he dissapeared?"

Shosuro Akira continues his silence. He is very much interested in what he can hear from Yusokaze.

OOC: Yet another Sense Motive just in case Akira notices he is lying or something.
22:08, Today: Shosuro rolled 24 using 1d20+8.  Sense Motive.

John lept looking around from where he stood, before leaning into his companions. "Who would have access to that area? More so do we plan to go back and trace the prints back to a point of origin?"

"I see, milady. Rest assure, the Scorpion Clan will stop at nothing in helping you and your family in this time of need. I will go to interview your older son then."

With a bow, she retires and calls for a servant to take her to Kuetachiis.


OOC:
08:51, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 5 using 1d20+3.  Sense Motive.
I fail at sensing anything if she is lying to me, I guess. Bad luck.

Ryu, John and Akira Tsuokaze looks you over before answering "Life here in the castle can be difficult to those who are not use to hard work. Besides finding new servants is always easy.  There are plenty of people in the village who would be honored to work here.  Hanashi is a fool, pretending to be a mute so that he can gain the ear of my Lord.  It is always the quiet ones that you cannot trust."

Akira He is not holding anything back this is truly how he feels about the situation.

Sakura You leave the room and a servant leads you to the room of Kunetachi.  The servant knocks and a few seconds later you hear a gruff voice "Enter"  The servant opens the door, bows and leaves.  Before you stands the spitting image of Lord Kunemura twenty years before, strong, stubborn, proud and ambitious.  "I was told to expect you.  So your here to discover who stole the daisho?  Ask your questions then."

OOC:
Roll Sense Motive after your post

Actions

Ryu hears what Yusokaze has to say and then bows. "Lord Yusokaze, rest assured, we will help you in this problem." He takes his leave and heads to Hanashi's room. Once he is really away from Lord Yusokaze, he looks at the others.

"So... what do you think?"

"This guy's has serious issues with Hanashi. To a personal level. Maybe professional jealousy. I am sure the position of right hand of the Lord of the Castle is now open. Aside of that, his feet don't match the footprints we found. And he really thinks he can find good servants for the castle very easily. I doubt he will care even knowing the names of the servants under his charge."

Akira walks with Ryu and John.

Sakura bows to Kunetachi. "First of all, I wanted to express my gratitude to trust in the Scorpion clan for this matter. The main suspect is Hanashi. What do you think of him?" She sighs as she sits in front of him. "It must be hard... to know that war is coming. How are you preparing yourself for it?"

OOC:
07:21, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 4 using 1d20+3.  Sense Motive. I fail again!

John tilted his head side to side. "He seems far to nervous. I can't help but think he is paying off some servant to have stole it. But it takes a fair bit more skill to come in and take the sword like that. More skill than any floor sweep or cook would have."

"Which means than we shouldn't trust in the same person that hired us." Akira adds.

John pressed his lips into a thin line. "Is that bad? If this was Avalon the guy there would be hiring us to find what he wanted us to find. Which is why he had all that documentation at the ready even as he was sweating like a nymph at a Sayter party."

"I could be very wrong but is his behavior common?"

"And this guy isn't even capable of managing servants. And he has the most to win in this situation. I don't know if he is just imcompetent or is tricking us."

John nodded once, "I'd hate to split the group up too much but my guess is that the footprints in the ceiling will lead to either the servant's quarters or out of the... house? ... Castle? If it leads outside that is a whole other issue."

"Then again this is just what I am used to back home. Is any of this plausible here?"

"Which is why we are going to Hanashi's room right now. We will wait for Sakura and then investigate where the trail leads." Ryu whispers to his companions and when they enter Hanashi's room, he closes the door behind them.

Sakura You sit before Kunetachi and ask your questions.  You can feel some anger coming from him.  The young man takes a moment before answering "Hanashi is a great man well respected by everyone in the castle."  You sense that he is preparing himself for the next part of your statement. "I have been training daily with the men who guard the castle to prepare for the upcoming war.  It is my duty as the heir to the throne to not only be prepared to take charge after my father is gone but also to make sure that my people are ready as well."

Actions

John, Ryu and Shosuro  You head to Hanashi's room and close the door.  It looks exactly as you left it.

OOC: Is there anything you wish to do while waiting for Sakura to return?

"Why don't you go up, Akira and John? That way you can see if someone wants to spy us from above and at the same time protect the evidence of the print. In the meantime, I will wait here for Sakura."

"All right." Shosuro begins his way to the ceiling keeping watch.

John nodded and held the ladder for Shosuro as any good academic would... Safty pumpkin, safty. He headed up after and kept his head low to avoid beating his head on anything up there. "Do you have the unique talent to see in the dark? Cause I'm about to light a torch?"

"Nop... but I can hear very well. Come with your light"

With John taking care of the light, Akira feels confident enough to grasp his giant kama.

"Except that is now the the prime suspect of stealing your family's Daisho." Sakura keeps a little silence. "You seem to have confidence on your martial progress, but I am sure that you know that it takes more than a knowledge o how to handle a sword to administrate lands. You was expecting Hanashi to help you in that regard, right? With your brother far away, studying and preparing to help you in the future, if the worst happens you will be alone."

OOC
GAHHHH! Shosuro Akira, help me!!!!
06:32, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 10 using 1d20+3.  Sense Motive.

Akira and John You light your torch and head up into the attic.  Your light allows you to see about 10 feet in all directions.

Roll Perception

Ryu You stand around a wait for Sakura to return.
OOC: Anything you want to do while you wait?

Sakura "Yes, he is the prime suspect but he is only a suspect.  I don't believe he is the one, I hear is it up to you and your group to find out what happened.  I am also well versed in the arts of running the castle and lands."

Actions

Colored torches. That was something he was going to have to make soon. "If you don't mind me asking. How far away did you lot travel in from? I am still not entirely aware of how large this land is."


20:53, Today: John Smythe rolled 14 using 1d20+7.  PERCEPTION.
 Im just happy I got over a 10 on something
This message was last edited by the player at 02:01, Fri 06 May 2022.

"You have a lot of faith in our main suspect. I thank you for your time, my lord." She bows and takes her leave.

Sakura returns to Hanashi's room. "Starting without me?" She says as she looks at the ceiling. "I will need a ladder."

John's head popped out the open ceiling section like a fox out of a burrow. "Of course we got started. How are we to raise such hell without proper preparation? Comedy takes lots of planning."

"Ladder is off to the side there. May be wise to bring that pole too but kinda afraid there isn't enough room for such shenaniganery up here."

Group The attic space is about 9 feet tall and spreads out in several different directions. It is pitch black beyond the light of your torch.

Actions

John paced forward. He was going slow to look for a trap, a trigger, or a change in pattern

08:25, Today: John Smythe rolled 23 using 1d20+7.  Survival .

08:25, Today: John Smythe rolled 22 using 1d20+7.  Perception .

Ryu chuckles and waits for Bayushi Sakura to climb the ladder and he does it next. Once he is up he surprises that he can stand up. "Well... let's see if this takes us to the room where the Daisho was. If we find a turn in directo to it, let's take it."

Akira walks besides John, trying to watch for any danger as he walks in silence.

OOC
20:07, Today: Shosuro rolled 30 using 1d20+10.  Perception.

As she climbs, she informs the others. "Everyone loves Hanashi. To the point where I think nothin short of a full confession will break their faiths." She follows the group.

Group There's no sign of traps in the area of your light. Which direction do you wish to travel? (North, South, East or West)

The foot print was in a direction so John would be attempting to follow that trail. If there are no tracks he would want to check whichever direction the servant quarters would be. He is still sold on the idea someone paid a servant off and head in from there

OOC: The footprint you saw was at the edge of the entrance. You haven't seen anything else to indicate directions.

Do we have an idea which direction the servant quarters is? If not which ever direction the side of the panel the print was on. Just trying to not pick a random direction. XD

Failing all that. East
This message was last edited by the player at 20:02, Wed 11 May 2022.

OOC: We are in Hanashi's room. We must know the direction of where the Daisho was. Let's see if we can reach there first.

Group You decide to head towards the Lord's chamber remembering that you were told it was north of the room you are currently in.

OOC: you never did go to the Lord's room.

Roll perception and post your actions

Sakura follows the group.
OOC: Perception is not my forte, not going to even try when we have Shosuro and John.

It was sneaking time so he kept his mouth shut. But John did keep low so he could put the torch higher and not ruin what little night vision he had at the moment. He did keep his left eye closed entirely so if he had to shoot suddenly he would be able to see some what clearly.

19:41, Today: John Smythe rolled 17 using 1d20+7.  Perception.

Slowly, Akira walks to the Lord's room paying attention to anything he can notice.

OOC
21:51, Today: Shosuro rolled 26 using 1d20+10.  Perception.

Ryu taps the shoulder of John and concentrates to form a small contruct out of ectoplasm in front of him. With a movement of his now blue eyes, se signals John to give the torch to it. That way, if something bad happens... well the construct will take the damage first. The construct keeps walking, allowing John to prepare his weapons.

OOC:
Full: Manifest Astral Construct 1PP
Small, Dodge feat, Utility, Duration 4 hours

John nodded and handed off the torch. He then unslung Nymph from her place on her back. He thought about a grenade shot... nah, not good to set the clients house on fire. Thought about an iron shot... nah, too loud.

He would have to go with a spell cartridge but they only lasted a few seconds so he just kept ready.

OOC: Sorry for delay. in NM on fire assignment. posting now.

Group You proceed forward for about 30 feet or so when you come upon a ceiling tile that is slightly ajar. You cannot see what is below it except for a small sliver of light.

Actions

Akira peeks below.

OOC:
19:21, Today: Shosuro rolled 14 using 1d20+10.  Perception.

John shifted his position moving side to side to try and visually scan. More of a perspective thing.

17:24, Today: John Smythe rolled 16 using 1d20+7.  Perception .

Soshi Ryu orders the construct to stop around the tile.

OOC
Ready: Aims crossbow below, just in case Akira gives the signal to shoot below.

Group OOC: Quick question. Are you moving the tile to look below it or just trying to see what you can for the little space there is between the tile and the rafters?

In reply to DM (msg # 240):

See what I can see. Not sneaky enough to move it quietly.

OOC: Me too. Just taking a peek below. If I see noone is there, I move the tile. If someone is there, I think it will be wiser to know who may it be.

Sakura gets her starknife ready and prepares to jump down if she is said to.

Group Looking down into the room without moving the tile you are able to see the floor and the corner of what might be a stand or dresser or maybe even a bookcase.

Actions

Soshi Ryu moves his hands to communicate that he wants to slide the panel and then order the Astral Construct to fall in with the light. IF something happens, it will happen to the Astral Construct.

John moved to one side to help move the panel. Many hands made for light work and the goal was to be quiet after all. He did not really have any alchemy that would be able to lend a hand... he was going to have to expand his list of formula...

Akira nods and helps John move the panel. His weapon is big, so he puts it against the wall for the moment.

Sakura waits for what is going to happen to the Astral Construct.

Goup Together you are able to move the ceiling tile.  You see Ryu's astral construct drop down into the room and nothing happens.

Actions

John unslung Nymph fully and flicked a toggle on one side spinning up a spell cartridge. He gave one nod and moved so he could lean in for a shot once someone went down as to provide cover fire if it was called for.

Shosuro Akira takes his big Kama and decides to jump down in the style of the ninjas in his family. Too bad that he spent a lot of time of his life with the Bai-Kin. He falls loudly.

OOC:
01:42, Today: Shosuro rolled 9 using 1d20+8.  Acrobatics check.
I am sorry, guys :(

Sakura sighs and jumps, twisting her body to create momentum and then land gracefully and in a pose.

OOC
06:20, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 26 using 1d20+10.  Perform check in place of Acrobatics.

Ryu isn't nearby as athletic or daring as his parnters. "Errr... can you find a ladder?"

John pulled a vial out of his bag and offered it to Ryu. "Take off your shoes and drink this. Its a monkey fish potion. It will let you climb the ceiling and walls without issue."

Infusion of monkey fish. You'll get a climb and swim speed of 10 ft for 5 min.

Group You see Akari jump down into the room below, unfortunately he lands badly and crumble to the floor. It's more embarrassing than painful especially once you see how graceful Sakura lands.  Once both people on the ground stand up you hear the floor "sing" as described by Lord. This indicates to you that you are in his private rooms.

OOC: in the interest of time you all find your way into the room.

Looking around you can see bedding and a wardrobe along one wall. In an alcove on the other wall you can see the stand where the daisho would normally be located.

Actions

"Someone with a very long instrument could have grabbed the Daisho and never leave the roof. Take the lead, Akira and John... I will help you find something."


OOC:
Fail again.
12:54, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 9 using 1d20+1.  Perception Aid nothr.

Shosuro Akira rubs his ass. He limps for a while but he is able to search the room for more clues.

YES! A good one!
21:09, Today: Shosuro rolled 27 using 1d20+10.  Perception.

John remained in the ceiling just to be sure there was a way back up. Though he did take a look around trying to keep track of the comings and goings up there.

Survival of 12 to track.

Ryu looks around too. "I guess we should notify of this to the Lord of this Castle... to see how much he knows of his own castle. But first, let's see what other directions can our little laberynth up there take."

He waits for Akira's judgement on the scene.

GroupYou look around the area and every time you take a step the floor boards sing. Dispite your best efforts. You don't seem to find anything else that might lead you in a new direction.

John You stay in the attic looking around bit you don't see anything from you vantage point. Do you plan on searching the area?

Actions

John absolutely gave a look around while he was still in the ceiling. It was a well-sealed room so they wouldn't need so much overwatch. So he made himself busy looking around up high outside of the footprint they already found.

09:01, Today: John Smythe rolled 10 using 1d20+7.  Perception .

09:00, Today: John Smythe rolled 17 using 1d20+7.  Survival .

Sakura shakes her head. "Let's find what other things we can find up first. If this noble family knew of this passage, they would have told us already."

Ryu nods to Sakura "All right. But this is just another nail in Hanashi's coffin." He looks up. "John, we can go to more placaes than this, right?"

John poked his head over the side, "Looks like I have access to most of this level up here. I'd have to go room to room to be sure. How embarrassing if we have access to secret rooms from up here..."

OOC Is everyone going back into the attic or are some doing other things?  Let me know your decisions in the next post.

OOC: The floor squeals if we step on it, all right. Those who searched for things didn't found anything. Time to move on and up, I say.

OOC: I got a 27 in my perception roll... I don't think I will get it any higher. I am ready to go up

Group As you head back into the attic, you pass a few servants who give your group the hallway as they step aside and bow as you walk by.  (OOC): Do you want to ask any questions before heading up?

Jonh You search the imediate area where you found the loose tile that leads to the lords room but there is no other tiles that are lose in the area.  (OOC) How far do you want to search before the others join you?

Actions

OOC: A few servants? Where they already in the room or they came because of the noise of the floor?

OOC: You see them in the hallway as your heading to go back to the room with the ladder.

Akira doesn't want to leave Johnny alone for too long.
"John, why don't you get down and so we can go together to the original room? It would be safer that way."

Sakura was the best to deal with people, so Ryu waits for her to speak with the servants.

John poked his head back over the edge and spoke to whoever of the group was within earshot. "Just about all the other tiles are secure up here. Which means they had to travel in from another part of the castle from up here. He started working his way down as was asked of him.

Ryu waits for John to climb down and then he whispers to Sakura _{"Just try to keep them out of the room."}

Sakura nods to Ryu.
"I am sure you already know that we are in a special service to your Lord. As such, I am ordering you to not go closer to the Daisho room at all. The penance for doing that will not be low." She says to the servants

Group The servants bow to you before continuing on with whatever job they have in the castle.

OOC: Roll perception check

Actions

Shosuro Akira pays attention to his surroundings...
OOC: 16:34, Today: Shosuro rolled 21 using 1d20+10.  Perception.

Ryu keeps walking to the original room to go up the ladder again.
OOC:
20:41, Today: Soshi Ryu rolled 14 using 1d20+2.  Perception check.

Up the ladder again, this time John would head in the opposite direction than they had searched last time. They needed to start covering ground.


20:56, Today: John Smythe rolled 23 using 1d20+7.  Perceptions.

Sakura follows the gaijin, hoping to be ready for what is ahead.
OOC
20:48, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 15 using 1d20+1.  Perception check.

Group Anyone with a perception above 15 notices that the last servant in line seems to linger a second longer than the other two and gives you and eye (as in follow me I have some info, not mad dogging you.)

Actions

John turned at gave Sakura a similar look, "I am not so good at talking with people. If you care to I can be better suited for overwatch." He indicated the one who seemed to be signaling in such a way as to make it look like he was fishing around in his side bag.

Ryu didn't even noticed the others got behind him to talk or say Sakura anything, walking straight to the original room.

Sakura nods to John and follows the last servant. Once she feels the others won't notice, she grabs the last servant's arm and pulls it, smiling. "Is there something you want to tell me?"

OOC
21:23, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 19 using 1d20+10.  Diplomacy.

Shosuro Akira silently walks behind Sakura but keeping his distance... just in case she needs some help

Ryu You head into Hanashi's room and wait for the others to join you.

Sakura, John and Akira The servant looks each of you in the eye in turn.  He does not seemed to show the respect of the other servants.  "I know that you are looking into the disappearance of the Daisho.  No one seems to care about us servants but I have information that might be of help.  Many of the servants are afraid to enter the deepest parts of the castle foundations, there have been tales of unexplained disappearances.  We have tried to report them but so far it has fallen on deaf ears.  Perhaps in your investigations you could help solve this mystery?"

Acions

Akira doesn't like this servant. "Well... if we have some time, we will consider it. But do you have any idea about what is happening?"

He asks just in case. The dissapearance of servants is old news anyway.

John leaned in and looked over the servant. "I'm not from around here so I don't know how much my word means but I can promise I will keep my eyes and ears open for anything about or of your fellows."

21:22, Today: John Smythe rolled 17 using 1d20+7.  perception.

21:22, Today: John Smythe rolled 10 using 1d20+7.  Heal check to review their general health

Sakura rolls her eyes at Akira's words. It is obvious why they let the speaking to her. "As my friend here said, we knew it. Now... what is it about a Daisho dissapearing?" She looks straight to the servant's eyes.


OOC:
16:52, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 14 using 1d20+10.  Intimidate.

"We have arrived". Ryu announces and turns to see that noone has been following him.

Sakura The man stares right back into your eyes. "I know nothing about the disappearance of the Daisho, but two of my friends were getting ready for their nightly drinking when they heard a noise and looked out.  They swear that they saw a ninja.  If you wish I can take you to them."

Actions

"Errr... guys?" Ryu scratches his head and looks around.

Akira looks at Sakura. This man indeed knows something about the dissapearance of the Daisho. He knows it happened. And that means that he must be silenced. "John, please search for Ryu. Tell him that we need him here."

John inclined his head and set off to find Ryu. He was still getting the hang of how things are done but he was quick to respond. He didn't have a message spell but he did call out in a tone that wasnt dire, "Ryu sir? You about?"

Sakura notices something. The ausence of fear. And that worries her.

"You know what? I am interested. We will wait for my friend to return and then we will meet yours." She nods to the servant and then to Akira before continuing speaking. "What is your name and what do you do here in the castle?"

Ryu was turning his head at either side when he hears John. "I am here." He calmly says and follows the voice to reunite with his friends.

Sakura My name is Soe, I'm a general laborer. I fix what is broken.

Ryu and John You are able to find eachother without difficulty.

Actions

Ryu chuckles when he sees John. "Where have you all gone?" He follows John to where the others are, keeping silence when he sees the scene before him.

Shosuro Akira nods at John and Ryu when they come back. "Soe, guide us to where your friends are. Just in case, do they also know the Daisho has dissapeared?"

OOC: I hope he won't lie.
20:51, Today: Shosuro rolled 21 using 1d20+8.  Sense Motive.

Once Ryu was recovered John was well content to play his part quietly. It was Avalon all over again. At this point it was looking like a trained burglar, most people wouldn't think to use ceiling access but there still wasn't much to go on.

"Yes, Soe... they may be in danger if they know. We must protect them if they are in danger." Sakura adds and smiles to Ryu and John when they appear.


OOC: Bluff check to make him believe I care about his wellbeing.
06:38, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 12 using 1d20+10.  Bluff check.
Damn... I hope his wisdom will be very low.

Once everyone is together, Soe tells you "Follow me" He leads you down the hallway into another room with stairs heading down.  He takes the stairs and you end up in the kitchen.  Inside the kitchen there are two men with their backs to you facing a large pot. Once within earshot Soe speaks up.  "Jue and Oni, These are the people who are here to help with the search for the Daisho.  Tell them what you told me."  The two men turn and look at you as if waiting for you to ask questions.

Actions

"So... what do you have to tell us about this dissapearances?" They wanted to talk about the dissapearances, so why not giving them the pleasure before they have to kill them?

"Yes... tell us everything you know. The most we know, the most we can help." Sakura takes the star out of her belt and begins to swing it as if playing with it.

OOC:
20:37, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 11 using 1d20+10.  Bluff check.
OK, I fucked up. Good thing is that rolling a 1 is not a failure in skill checks. Bad thing is that it is a 1 and now they only need to roll a 11 sense motive check to realize we will kill them.

Ryu nods and prepares his crossbow, showing he is ready.

John barely, just only barely, understood what was going on. Part of him wanted to protest but the last few months had taught him to keep his mouth shut and go with the flow.

It did, however, answer his question as to why people kept vanishing.

Group Soe looks at you suspiciously but nods at the other two to continue.  Jue and Oni bow before continuing.  The man identified as Jue speaks up.  "Oni and I were down here in the cellar performing our duty taking inventory of the supplies and waiting for our friend Wen." He pauses for a moment. "We decided to wait a few more minutes before starting since Wen is often late, we heard a short gurgling scream.  We looked out and saw the body of Wen lying on the ground and a ninja stalking away.  We can show you where it happened if you wish?"

Roll perception

Actions

Shosuro Akira pays a lot of attention at what they do and say.
"You better stay here. You are witnesses of the dissapearances of the other servants. We will go to the cellar. One last thing... have you told anyone about the dissapearance of the Daisho?"


OOC:
Well... technically Akira is not lying. So I don't think I have to roll Bluff, right?
22:09, Today: Shosuro rolled 19 using 1d20+8.  Sense Motive.
22:09, Today: Shosuro rolled 30 using 1d20+10.  Perception.

"Shosuro Akira is right. As I see it, anyone who knows about the dissapearance of the Daisho is in danger. Tell us who else you told about it and we will take care of them."

OOC: Sakura isn't lying either. We will take care of them >:)
But just in case.
13:00, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 12 using 1d20+10.  Bluff.
I AM FUCKING CURSED! A 2, AN 1, AND NOW ANOTHER 2!

John knew better than to open his mouth and give things away, so he just stood there rolling that wax pill in his cheek.

13:19, Today: John Smythe rolled 14 using 1d20+7 ((7)).
You need to roll like 20 d20s just to burn the curse out of your system

Ryu just nods and waits for their answer.

OOC I accidentally put the Daisho in the conversation.  No one but you and the people who are incharge of the castle know about it missing.  I meant to say that Soe is talking about the missing workers.  Just continue along your path of questioning and I will fix the conversation to follow.

Group Jue and Oni look at you before continuing.  "We told no one else.  We only heard rumors about it missing.  We will wait here for your return."

Actions

OOC:
Ok... I realize you made a mistake. But you are making it worse now, LOL. Now we have to kill them and search for the one who originated the rumour.

OOC: LOL, yes
Perhaps we can erase any mention of the dissapearance? That would make things so much easier.

OOC: We'll let democracy dictate.  What do you want? Rewrite history about the Daisho or leave it in?  If we leave it in there will be consequences.  If we take it out then who knows what will happen.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:18, Sun 11 Sept 2022.

In reply to DM (msg # 315):

I feel like it was an honest mistake. rewrite to the intended statement.

OOC: If we let the Daisho mistake, we have to kill innocent people. Ryu has no problem in killing innocent people. The player will make Ryu kill innocent people. But if that was a mistake, the player prefers not to. Even more when the inocent people has asked us for help.

OOC: With everything said... we never really cared about the dissapearance of the servants. LOL. If the man wouldn't have said a word, we may still be in the roof. Lets we at least show some care about them.

OOC: Rewind: There is no mention of the missing Daisho.  The men only tell you about the ninja they saw sneak away after killing their friend.  They are still willing to show you the location of the murder.

Actions

"Good... but you guide us there and run back to here. Or you can be the next victims."

Akira takes his giant kama with green blade and follows the servants.

John was more than happy to let the group handle the social situations of their people. So he stood there making sure Nymph was a ok. "Sounds like we are going to find ourselves a ninja Nymph. Wont that be fun." He was speaking to the gun in the language of Avalon. But peppered in bits of the local language, you know, to be courteous.

"Yes, it will be for the best to keep youselves safe." Sakura adds and follows Akira.

Group The two men lead you down a short passage into a small room filled with barrels.  "Here is where we being our inventory.  The men point you to a spot on the floor.  There is where our friend was killed and the ninja ran off."

Actions
Roll perception

"All right. Now your lives are oficially in danger. Run for your lives and don't look back." Sakura advices them. "Akira, do the search. You are good for searching."

"Leave it to me!" Akira grins and nods and begins to inspect the room.

OOC
21:11, Today: Shosuro rolled 13 using 1d20+10.  Perception.
HELP ME.

John kept quiet but nudge Shosuro subvertly in ways to indicate anything that John would notice himself. Better to let the others have credit for finding things.

21:37, Today: John Smythe rolled 26 using 1d20+7 ((19)).
Help you sir, aye sir.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:39, Wed 28 Sept 2022.

Ryu joins the search for clues.

OOC:
10:10, Today: Soshi Ryu rolled 4 using 1d20+2.  Perception aid another.
I AM SORRRRRRRRY!!!!!!!!!

Group The two men show you to the area where their friend was killed and the ninja ran off.  There is no body here.

John You notice a bloodstain on the floor.

Actions and perception

With a elbow John nudged Akira so he could see the blood stain.

Shosuro Akira grins and nods to Jhonny. He kneels near the blood stain and tries to guess a direction the person that was bleeding. Then he tries to touch the walls. Perhaps there is a secret door?

Now that one of the others was now aware of what was coloring the ground John took off his box of a backpack and set it on the ground. He opened it, then opened it, then opened it, then opened it. A very well-made alchemy kit opened up as he drew out a pair of thin knives. John did what he could to get a measure of the blood, no matter how old, and started doing his alchemist thing to test and see if there was poison in the blood or not. It wasn't a make-or-break bit of info but it could influence future choices.

While the small glass tube soaked the sample, waiting for it to turn a poisonous purple or not, John pulled a small bag out and started loading the canister on Nymph. Once sealed he paced looking at the ground for more tracks. If the tracks matched the measurement of the first footprint... "Right Nymph. If there are any kind of footprints we could match the one we found in the attic ish area. If there are toxins in the blood we need to make a few anti-toxins. More over... poison indicated trained as opposed to a random peasant with a knife and a bad idea." The rifle started glowing as it spun up the spell shells.

20:59, Today: John Smythe rolled 19 using 1d20+15.  Alchemy to check blood for poison.

20:59, Today: John Smythe rolled 18 using 1d20+7.  Survival.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:12, Sat 01 Oct 2022.

Sakura was impressed when John begun to work, to say the least. But when he begun to talk with his weapon, she decided to touch the walls helping Akira. Who knows what would happen if the gun replied?

John Your test comes back as negative for poison.  The boot print is exactly the same size as the one you found in the attic.

Group You watch as John measures the boot print.  You feel along the walls looking for a clue as to what happened here or a secret passage.

Roll Perception

Ryu joins the search.

OOC:
18:57, Today: Soshi Ryu rolled 13 using 1d20+2.  Perception .

Sakura touches all the panels of the walls, just in case.

OOC:
22:12, Today: Bayushi Sakura rolled 6 using 1d20+1.  Perception.

"No poison present. Footprint matches the one before... in size at least." Once his first inspection was done John aided in looking, being sure to check the ceiling for disturbed panels as well.

20:18, Today: John Smythe rolled 25 using 1d20+7.  Perception .

"What a coincidence, right?" Akira chuckles at Johnny's comment.

OOC:

16:16, Today: Shosuro rolled 19 using 1d20+10.  Perception again.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:17, Mon 03 Oct 2022.

John You look at the ceiling but it is made of solid stone with nothing showing but the beams of wood that support the upper levels.

Akira and John You both notice a bloody boot print that is partly under one of the cask of saki.  After a few more minutes of searching you notice a small button on one of the support post on the wall.  After pushing the button you hear a small click and part of the wall opens into a dark stairwell that leads down.

Group You see a dark stairwell that leads downward.  It goes into the darkness after about 5 feet or so and bends to the left.  You cannot see past this point without a light source of some type.

Actions

John made sure Akira got to push the button. He was here as support, the others would have more authority in talking to anyone about all that was going on. Once the door was open he gave Akira a nod. "Trained trap breaker but my eyes are not so good close up." He pulled out a knife and used its edge going around the door to check for any trip lines. "Not sure about lights, I'm not very sneaky."

Only a 10 to look for traps