DM Downrightamazed |
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While none of the great Houses of the Empire are beholden strictly to one single god or goddess, all have one or two dominant faiths that guide their actions. Clan Motomo, for example, newly ascendant and nouveau-riche bourgeois, worship that god primarily responsible for the activity that led to their rise; Abadar, who rules over merchants and traders and businessmen. However, being the rude brawlers they are, Gorum is also looked fondly upon. Clan Hoshi, not surprisingly, follow the teachings of Nethys, and Gozreh. Clan Oda; Shelyn and Desna. And so on.
Clan Shoto and Clan Sera, arguably the oldest and most powerful houses, are distinguished by the balance of their patron deities. Clan Sera pays obeisance to the master of contingencies and planning, Torag, but also to that harshest of lawgivers, Asmodeus.
Clan Shoto, meanwhile, heeds the teachings of the Master of Masters, Irori, but in very old tales it is said that the Reaper of Reputation, whose identity is unknown anywhere in the world, was in life the progenitor of House Shoto, who after being betrayed by the Uniter countless years ago, swore an oath to see all of that emperor's works undone, all his plans laid waste, if it took until the end of time, and the end of his House. This, while forever preserving the sanctity of the Empire itself. Thus it is that Norgorber, one of whose aspects is the spider, came to be thought of much differently in the east than in the west, and to be borne on the mon of a great and powerful Clan.
It is said that to see his likeness or that of one of his servants in arachnid form is a dubious blessing, but a blessing nonetheless, and not to be taken lightly.
The spider currently busily weaving above the queen has rather distinctive markings.
Kyras Erodal |
Spellcraft 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11
For all his magical ability, Kyras has almost no formal training. The Dragon is quiet, not supplying the faintest of clues as to what the spider is doing. Kyras, frustrated by not knowing, hits his hands against the table more loudly than he should. The beautiful women next to him are startled, then giggle (a bit nervously) between themselves.
Tokine Nagano |
When Kyras repeats the gesture with emphasis, Tokine blushes slightly as she realizes he is pointing at the ceiling. Looking up, she spies the spider. You have been so active today
Spellcraft -> 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (19) + 13 = 32
More deception.
She pulls ink and brush from the pouch on her kimono sash. She writes a hasty note on the back of her placard and signals her server.
She passes the note with the whisper, "For the Master of the Hall."
The note reads:
Magic is being used in the hall. Gather quickly any available Shugenja and target dispels at the roof, directly above the visiting queen's head. Discretion advised. Inform me if not possible. Curator Nagano
Dare Mo |
Quickly, and with the professionalism of a practiced servant, Dare Mo weaves through the crowd gathered around to gawk at the gaudy display and makes for the service corridor. However, instead of returning to the kitchens, he makes sure no one is watching before before quietly returning to the chamber where he left his supplies.
Locking the door behind him, he quickly undresses from his servant's disguise before removing her from the closet. He checks her pulse to make sure she's still breathing, then carefully dresses her and fixes her hair before dragging her to a corner of the room, leaving her slumped in a sitting position.
After retrieving Daisuke's accoutrements from the other closet, he wipes his makeup off using the inside of his kimono, then dresses himself, prominently displaying the Hoshi mon once again. The jawbone necklace he places around his own neck and carefully conceals under his kimono.
He listens at the door long enough to make sure no one is coming down the hallway, then unlocks it.
The servant will wake up within a few minutes, and she key to the success of this ruse.
He steels himself against pain using ancient breathing techniques, then delivers a full-force punch to his own throat.
Damage (nonlethal) 1d3 + 4d6 + 1 ⇒ (2) + (1, 5, 5, 5) + 1 = 19
Reeling from the impact and short of breath, he crawls to a corner near where he placed the servant girl, then presses the arteries in his neck, stopping blood flow and rendering himself unconscious.
Steven T. Helt RPG Superstar 2013 |
Shoto Imuri |
What kind of 'very distinctive' markings? Runes and words? A laughing skull? Pictographs? Imuri only knows from the brief glance. He does not want to draw attention to the beast if it is merely illusion or distraction.
Imuri focuses on the movements in his peripheral vision. His gaze remains on the Curator, the Advisor, and the imperial guest of honor, to abuse the term. He looks for patterns in the spider's movement so that he can sort out increasing detail without looking directly at the beast.
Chujitsuna Kage -Loyal Shadow- |
Spellcraft 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (7) + 14 = 21
Chu had waited patiently for the Queen to respond, he wasn't impressed by her thus far. Her arrogance was slowly becoming more apparent and he was growing tired of her deflecting. It was dishonorable to lead potential allies on, it was obvious she knew nothing of the Empire or its people. Which was completely ludicrous and showed she underestimated the strength and resolve of the Empire of Mists.
As the spider began to weave more intricately Chu cursed his lack of attention, he had missed some clue as to what it was doing during his intense focus upon the queen. He stands, casually, so he may speak again. The Queen's stalling had given him just cause to expound on what he had asked of her. But he wasn't standing just because of her, no, he was readying for whatever the spider was doing. It was hard for him to remain focused on her and watch the creature above her from his peripheral vision.
His voice is calm and confident as he speaks again. "What do you know of our people Queen Llirrianna, of the clans and the traditions they hold dear?"
Just for your reference. (Hence why Chu makes a good shadow ;) )
Immunity to Mind-Affecting attacks: You are immune to Mind-Affecting attacks.
Immunity to Paralysis: You are immune to paralysis.
Immunity to Poison: You are immune to poison.
DM Downrightamazed |
@Chu: Your second question earns you a disapproving eyebrow-raise from the emperor. His Mouth speaks; "The honorable advisor is reminded that each Peer gets one question, even those so blessed as to be allowed in the Son of the Heavens' presence unguarded."
Llirrianna waves her hand dismissively. "It is quite fine, I am certain, but I...that is...hmmm, this is most odd. I must sit." The stately elf suddenly looks rather less graceful and sits down a bit heavily. "Honorable advisor..." she begins to adress Chu "...the Dragons, they...in our...the power they have helps...I...I am sorry, I cannot continue. I do not know what is the matter." She does indeed appear a bit pale. Tiny beats of sweat line her forehead.
Again, the Mouth speaks. "Very well. Though it displeases us greatly that you cannot answer our advisor's question, we will hold your obligation fulfilled. A page shall be sent to you for an answer in the morning." Abruptly the doors open, and the noise from the reception room filters in, signaling the end of the meal. He continues. "Tea and desserts are served. The emperor thanks you all for your attendance, counsel, and loyalty. There will be one more State Dinner, tomorrow night, and then a Grand Council shall be held to Consider."
Slowly, the Peers begin to leave the room.
The spider is gone.
DM Downrightamazed |
@Kyras: With astonishing quickness, Aki-chan and Kazue-chan each stand and loop one of their arms into each of yours and begin to guide you toward the receiving room, away from the Erinyes and Tiefling but still in a reasonably central and crowded area. They seem to be making damn sure that as many people as possible see them with you.
Kyras Erodal |
Kyras makes sure to shrug at Azami, as if to say, 'What can you do?' He lets the beautiful pair drag him wherever they want to drag him. Obviously the elven sorceress was outwitted by the snake, even if he didn't follow the rules and sub-rules outlined by the subcommittee for proper questioning of the manipulative representative of the power-hungry army of black dragons. The adviser will likely receive a stern, but polite, reprimand that is equal parts compliment and warning. He resolves to himself that the danger is likely past, so he may as well enjoy the company of two(!) beautiful, noble daughters.
Life is not so bad in the Empire when no one is trying to kill or control you.
Chujitsuna Kage -Loyal Shadow- |
Chu is more concerned with the disapproval he has gained from the Emperor then the Queens sudden change. He is quick to kneel once more and bow his head in apology, there was no excuse for being overly prideful, touching his forehead to the floor and placing his serpentine hands palm down in apology. He cared not who saw him perform dogeza his pride now caused him to be humbled. "Idaina kōtei, anata no kenkyona shimo be ni kare no orokana puraido o yurushite kudasai."
I didn't know which language was the norm in the Empire of Mists. So forgive me but I've been sticking with a japanese like hue in the way Chu tries to act. ^^; Please correct me if i'm wrong~ :)
"Great Emperor, Please forgive your humble servant his foolish pride.
Shoto Imuri |
Imuri arranges for invitations to be sent to the gaijin, the curator, and their attendants for morning rice in the same prestigious house he invited the ronin to. Knowing he has much to prepare and little time before his meeting with Sera-Aki-Kirei, he melts into the crowd to avoid distractions. as he does so, his colors becomes slightly more drab. The spiders vanish from his kimono and his tsuba and mons become less striking.
He looks about for the attendant, Wong Tsai.
Azami Ito |
Imuri - when you say gaijin and ronin, who do you mean? (Especially since both words can be singular or plural.)
Azami's lips press to a tight, flat line at Kyras, clearly indicating she sees how much he is fighting the controlling attentions of two beauties. She begins to head after him when she hears the sound from the hallway; noting that the two women have him rather firmly in hand and heading towards the crowd and away from the minions of the Black Dragonflight, she turns towards the hallway to investigate the odd sound.
Hopefully, Kyras will mention something to Imuri about his sister so they can get out of this city as soon as possible.
Tokine Nagano |
Spiders in my temple. Spiders in the Palace. Are they ...helping?
She stands and moves toward the distressed Queen. I purged ..something from my room. It did not belong there, and yet at the dance..the spider stands over the temple..it seemed so threatening...is it guarding....from those in the web in the alley. Is this Shelyn's brother showing concern...or control?
She reaches the Queen and her attendants, "I am a healer. Does the queen require assistance?" It is her first up close look at the Queen. She tries to make the most of it.
Sense Motive -> 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (1) + 11 = 12
With one eye closed!
Shoto Imuri |
Imuri - when you say gaijin and ronin, who do you mean? (Especially since both words can be singular or plural.)
We all have different ideas what kind of oriental society the Empire is. Unless DRA rules otherwise, I am using ronin to mean failed or disavowed samurai (also, mercenary, wave man, etc), who is also a citizen of Lanzhu.
Gaijin is used to mean foreigner, or outsider. In a larger sense it means someone who lives outside the celestial order of reincarnation.
So, to Shoto Imuri, Azami Ito is a ronin (but only in the loose sense of the word, since she is not from a greater house but still a stable imperial employee). The erinyes or elves or Kyras would be gaijin. Context will determine whether he means specific folk or general folk. In the above narrative, Imuri is thinking about the ronin like Swift, the gaijin like Kyras, and all those associated with his adventures the last couple of days.
If someone is specifically not invited, they'll know. Unless Imuri intends for them to show up uninvited. Isn't politics fun?
Azami Ito |
We all have different ideas what kind of oriental society the Empire is. Unless DRA rules otherwise, I am using ronin to mean failed or disavowed samurai (also, mercenary, wave man, etc), who is also a citizen of Lanzhu.
Gaijin is used to mean foreigner, or outsider. In a larger sense it means someone who lives outside the celestial order of reincarnation.
So, to Shoto Imuri, Azami Ito is a ronin (but only in the loose sense of the word, since she is not from a greater house but still a stable imperial employee). The erinyes or elves or Kyras would be gaijin. Context will determine whether he means specific folk or general folk. In the above narrative, Imuri is thinking about the ronin like Swift, the gaijin like Kyras, and all those associated with his adventures the last couple of days.
If someone is specifically not invited, they'll know. Unless Imuri intends for them to show up uninvited. Isn't politics fun?
Ah, overall, I guess I was wondering, when you said,"invitations to be sent to the gaijin, the curator, and their attendants for morning rice in the same prestigious house he invited the ronin to", which characters you meant by gaijin and ronin. Since I think of Azami as both gaijin and ronin, I wanted to make sure I didn't miss anything (specifically an invite) previously.
Although, it isn't as if Kyras is going far without her, so whether Imuri invites her or not doesn't /really/ matter. ;) It was more for context of playing her attitude.
I'm using ronin as it is used in the Paizo description of samurai.
Also, I wasn't sure if you realized that Azami is also gaijin - from the same city as Princess Erudima. She doesn't hide it at all, even though she has taken on a different name.
I'm thoroughly enjoying all the politics --even though I'm not playing a political character.
Shoto Imuri |
Oops. I didn't know. In that case Azami would be a gaijin and not a ronin, at least in the cultural sense. Which then changes Imuri's level of concern for her ideas about honor.
DM Downrightamazed |
@Azami: It takes very little effort to locate the source of the noise you heard; in a closet not far from the prep area used by the servants to get tea and delectables ready for the guests, you find a servant girl and the ronin you just met, Daisuke, both lying unconscious. It's a safe bet no one in the staff knows about this yet.
DM Downrightamazed |
@Tokine:
DC18 Will save vs. Suggestion: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (3) + 12 = 15
The queen looks at you and smiles, her eyes inviting. "Why you dear, yes, thank you. I...just some fresh air would be fine. Perhaps a stroll outside someplace? Is there a quiet garden, maybe one that is kept more private and away from..." she waves her hand dismissively "...all these people. Perhaps the one where the side courtyards must be? That seemed a lovely location."
You immediately realize what a delightful idea that is; you could introduce her to Ryuu, whom you just met, and get a bit of alone time with her as well. After all, she is an honored guest. Taking her hand to help her stand, then looping your arm in hers, you and the exotic elven queen leave through the door that Azami had been guarding, but which is now unattended, and head down the quiet back hallways. No one sees you depart.
As the two of you stride gracefully towards the emperor's private garden, Llirrianna asks you about your duties, and your temple, and how you came to be in possession of such delightful paintings. She seems very interested in new acquisitions; "Tell me, Esteemed Madame Curator, what pieces are you most excited about right now? Have any new acquisitions just really connected with your spirit?"
DM Downrightamazed |
@Kyras, @Imuri, @Azami, @Chu: There is a sudden racket from the center of the room and a collective gasp goes up. The Erinyes has fanned her massive obsidian wings out to their full, majestic, terrifying width, cuffing a couple of the more delicate souls around her and knocking them to the ground. Her black eyes flesh and her mouth curls into a horrid sneer. "WHERE IS IT! SOMEONE TOOK IT! ONE OF YOU! ONE OF YOU TOOK IT! MY NECKLACE IS GONE AND I WILL HAVE THE HEAD OF THE ONE WHO DARED STEAL IT!" She is reaching for her sword, the half-dozen palace guardsmen in the room are all stunned with fear, a disgrace to their positions.
Though to be fair, the battle-scarred torture devil is an awesome sight, truly a harbinger of infinite pain, and a wish for a death that will never come.
If you wish to try to grapple or fight, then roll initiative, if you are just going to watch, or try diplomacy or some such, then just go ahead.
Kyras Erodal |
Initiative 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12
Intimidate 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (3) + 19 = 22
Bluff 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (8) + 14 = 22
Kyras steps in front of the women who have taken a shine to him, drawing his katana smoothly and quickly. His stance is ready for combat, with his feet wide as his shoulders and his right foot back. He points the sword at her, like an accusatory finger. He snarls at the Erinyes, "You come in here as if one of us took it? You dare threaten innocent women? You dare dishonor the Emperor and the Empire with your baseless accusations? What proof do you have that it was anyone in this room? What gives you the right to assault citizens of the Empire without just cause?" While most of his words are true and righteous, just a little bit is posturing for the pair of beauties in his case. "All those loyal to the Emperor, defend his subjects against this creature's attacks! Imperial citizens will not stand for the Dragonflight's second attack on this day!"
AC: 19 (+5 armor, +2 Dex, +2 natural)
hp: 76/91
Spells: 2/7 1st, 1/5 2nd
Rage: 1/8
Shoto Imuri |
Imuri wastes no time in making eye contact with his father. He folds his hands harmlessly into the sleeves of his kimono and allows the spiders to become more prominent. His steps take him lightly towards Queen Llirrianna. assuming she is not fully out of the chambers yet
He bows carefully, reminding himself that her unearthly beauty is likely just so.
Perhaps my family can assist you in this matter, honored guest. It is not right for your vassal to cause such a commotion, and I despair to see your magnificent performance here tonight lose its lustre. If you were to gain control of your servant long enough to tell me what is missing and who might have wanted to steal it, I will do all I can to recover it or set you on its path.
Turning to Kyras, the Shoto murmurs with some disdain. We do not permit gaijin to speak for the Empire, Erodal-san. The Dragonflight are our guests and we will assist them in this matter, which is quite unrelated to your conflict with Inimitareh-san. Put your weapon aside, or I will have you arrested.
Imuri's eyes are cold and threatening, but not clouded. Do not test me, my new friend. Do not defy a spider in his own web. His hand does not stray to his weapon, but his feet easily assume an iai stance. An old one.
For Kyras
Diplomacy 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (1) + 11 = 12
Yeah. Should have just RP'd that one out and made you ask for a roll. I blame Kyras.
Azami Ito |
Heavens, guys. Leave you alone for a moment...
Seeing Daisuke lying there unconscious next to the servant, Azami narrows her eyes. She is about to bend down to check on them further when she hears the Erinyes' voice rise in fury...followed by the bellowing of Kyras.
I thought he was heading away from the furies. Cannot leave him. For. Even. A. Moment.
Immediately, she turns on her heel, leaving the two unconscious people without a thought; to any servant --or similarly ranked or lower-ranked guard-- she sees on her path towards the fracas, Azami tosses the curt order, "Servant's closet, two people down, alive- see to them".
She turns the corner as Imuri begins speaking, taking in the scene as she strides purposefully through the astonished people--the Furie with outstretched wings, the stunned guards, Kyras with his weapon drawn, Imuri attempting to do...something not very convincing, although she notes he prepares his stance nonetheless.
In truth, the devil's imposing posture is strangely magnetic; while it bends the wills of the guards nearby, the promise of pain in the Erinyes' screech builds a teeming ore of her blood, an edge of iron that yearns to rend the wings from this Yokai, to test the boundaries of torture and death, eager to bear another scar in her path towards her fatal Dawn.
Azami stops directly to the Shoto scion's side with her hand positioned near her katana such that when she draws, her slice might impede the Erinyes from her blade. Her eyes flick between Kyras, Imuri and the devil.
"This gaijin speaks for the Empire." Voice rising to a commanding steel, her orders go to both Kyras and the Erinyes, although her focus is unmistakably on the devil. "CEASE YOUR BELLIGERENCE IN THE COURT OF THE EMPEROR, OR BE IMMEDIATELY ARRESTED."
Intimidate 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25
Ronin Order Challenge to Erinyes
Ready to use Self-Reliant and spend Resolve against any Will effects. Used Jaded and Indomitable Faith traits as RP fodder for why she is not affected by the Erinyes.
Initiative, if necessary 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5
AC: 20
HP:59/71 (I THINK? with all the DPMC and how LONG this day has been in RP, I have a hard time figuring out what her HP are.)
Azami Ito |
I think you have about 400. :b
Heh! Actually, Azami is down 18 hp. She was healed entirely by Tokine and Erudima during the major illusion attack in the courtyard, but I missed a damage roll in the battle with Vu.
So: HP: 53/71
Also...the gesture might have been totally lost (because this IS Azami), but that she stood at his side and did not move ahead of Imuri was meant to come off as a gesture of support and respect, perhaps setting herself as an ally.
DM Downrightamazed |
@Imuri; Looking to where Queen Llirrianna should be, you find that she is gone; vanished without a trace, as is Madame Curator Nagano. In the orderly crush of people leaving the main dining room and then coalescing in the Receiving Room, it is perfectly conceivable that she could have slipped away if she so desired.
DM Downrightamazed |
@Imuri and @Azami: Sera Aki-Kirei and Oda Kazue are both skilled fighters, as any child of a Great House would be. In addition to their extraordinary grace as dancers, both are gifted agile fighters. While not nearly on your respective levels as warriors, they can certainly handle themselves in a fight. You know this, they know this, and everyone in the room knows or at least guesses it.
Yet at the moment, both are fluttering their fans like nervous damsels and cowering behind the towering figure of Kyras, as if he were a bulwark behind which they would always be safe. Aki-chan adjusts the angle of her fan just long enough to give you both a very sly look.
You also notice that something about their stance seems to enrage the Erinyes even more.
DM Downrightamazed |
@Daisuke/Dare Mo: You are rudely awakened as a flood of ice-cold water pours over your person. Making a show of being surprised, you take stock of things. The servant girl is awake and crying in the corner, being comforted by two other servants. Standing over you is a functionary with a now-empty pitcher of water, looking very apologetic. "I am sorry, honored bushi, to awaken you so rudely, you who are in the employ of the great Clan Hoshi. But there is a...disturbance in the main room and the sorcerers cannot come. Please do not be angry with me!" The man bows very low.
From where you are you cannot see the main room, but there is that distinct kind of silence in the air, filled with electric tension, that lets you know some kind of stand-off is occurring.
DM Downrightamazed |
The Erinyes is suddenly taken aback by the appearance of so many warriors; besides the three of you, Motomo Hanso has also drawn his katana, and the powerful Hoshi Na-Doe has begun speaking arcane words of power, strange symbols floating in the air around him. While clearly incited to wrath, the Erinyes seems suddenly, uncharacteristically cowed, though defiant. The tiefling leans in and whispers something to her too low to be heard. She snarls. She does not draw her sword, but her hand remains on the hilt.
She addresses the room, refusing to look at Imuri or Azami. "I had a necklace. A very...special one. Made of bone. My...mother gave it to me, you could say." She fixes Kyras with an intense stare. "It was a most useful tool, and I must have it back." She now turns her burning gaze to Imuri and Azami. "Pray you find the thief before I do."
Shoto Imuri |
Imuri looks in dismay at the Motomo and his drawn blade. He then turns back to the erinyes and bows slightly.
Honored spirit. You are our guest. Though the day has strained the trust of all of us with one another, we children of the Emperor have our honor to uphold. I will task a commission with finding this necklace if you will but describe it for one of my painters. Once you have the original item returned, you will also have a piece of my family's artwork to commemorate the event. Who has a keepsake and does not wish it honored in such a way?
He turns to the other samurai, his stance arguably protective of the erinyes and tiefling. Please, we do not need to allow such an incident to try us so. If any of you insist on taking insult tonight, recall that your lives are not your own. You must ask your respective lords before you throw them away.
let's try Diplomacy again. 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (20) + 11 = 31
Imuri raises his hand high and motions to a group of Spider courtiers. I believe our guests deserve none less than the incomparable Shoto Fizuima to glorify the object in question.
Chujitsuna Kage -Loyal Shadow- |
Chu stood casually once he was dismissed by the Emperor and turned to face what was going on. As many drew their blades, shouted threats or moved in the more enlightened ways of diplomacy. He focused on the stunned captain of the palace guardsmen, using his innate gifts to spur the guardsmen back into action. With an intense stare he spoke to the palace guard captain. "Do not allow yourself or your men to be so easily cowed. Stand firm and assist Shoto Imuri in restoring peace to the Emperor's Palace as you have trained to do."
Chu casts suggestion on the guard Captain: DC 10+3+6 =19
With his enchanted words, hopefully, spurring the head guardsman to action. Chu moves forward gracefully to Shoto Imuri's side and nods respectfully to him. "Your words inspire all who hear them to take heed honorable Shoto Imuri, if you have need of me I will be nearby."
Chu takes stock of the situation and decides to move toward one of the plum blossomed shaped displays that the Curator in the room. Despite the fact he was still reeling for being so prideful and losing face before the Emperor, he still had a duty to perform and seek out the truth while he still could. He moved quietly up to one of the more secluded parts of the room where he could find the plum blossom shaped display so he could study it distracted.
Does Chu know whether or not he will be in trouble for casting further magic in the Emperor's court? Or is it alright to cast certain spells depending on their intent or purpose?
If he won't further dishonor himself, he will casts detect magic whenever he is alone enough to do so unobserved. If he can't he merely studies them and searches his knowledge for their possible purpose.
Tokine Nagano |
@Tokine:
[ooc]
As the two of you stride gracefully towards the emperor's private garden, Llirrianna asks you about your duties, and your temple, and how you came to be in possession of such delightful paintings. She seems very interested in new acquisitions; "Tell me, Esteemed Madame Curator, what pieces are you most excited about right now? Have any new acquisitions just really connected with your spirit?"
"My Spirit? Well we had a wonderful painting completed yesterday. A mountain scene inspired by Sarenrae and blessed by Shelyn. It was a wonderful experience and a treasure to have entered our collection"
DM Downrightamazed |
@Daisuke: The servant stiffens, then rises out of his bow. "Did the...er...I...I don't know, my lord, I am sure. Palace Guard Azami Ito informed me of your presence, if anyone would have this knowledge I am certain it would be she." The servant looks very uncomfortable with your question. Not uncomfortable as if he's hiding something, but uncomfortable in that talking to a samurai in the employ of a Great House is not something he is either accustomed to, or enjoying.
DM Downrightamazed |
DM Downrightamazed |
The captain shakes himself at your suggestion and rushes forward to aid the Shoto and the two gaijin, but does so without weapons drawn; instead, he takes Imuri's lead and approaches diplomatically. "Honored guest! It is to our shame that such an event has occurred within the emperor's walls. Every possible effort will be made to secure this item for you. Please, go about your evening and we shall inquire of the guests and servants what they may have seen."
DM Downrightamazed |
@Kyras: The two women come up behind you and each places a hand on one of your arms. "Kyras-san, please." whispers Aki-chan "No swordplay in this place. Your efforts are noted, and please the emperor; you do us all a great honor. But our guest will not fight here."
Kazue-chan picks up; "Come outside with us, where the night air is fresh and fragrant. I may yet get to hear more of your homeland, friend, as I'd earlier hoped."
Daisuke |
"Thank you," Daisuke says, taking stock of the others in the room, "I will speak with her. Is the girl alright? She was assisting me when I was attacked."
He gropes at his pockets and examines his swords, making a show of examining his possessions for theft.
is anything missing? No one ever said there must be only one thief in the palace.
Shoto Imuri |
Imuri cocks his head to one side and appears to marvel at the guard captain. Surely you do not suggest that Shoto Fizuima is not acceptible for the task, Captain. If you are going to insist on your own painter for this task, perhaps you should have spoken when your sincerity could have been more effectively conveyed. After all, were the Shoto not here to defend their friends, you may find yourself composing your final haiku. Not only have you allowed the theft in question, but you have allowed samurai to lose control of their emotions, and allowed steel to be drawn on the guests of the Emperor. The shame of their behavior falls on you. I will proclaim this truth in the courts if anyone accuses Motomo-san, the gaijin Kryas, or the others of insulting our guests.
Imuri looks back to the contingent of Shoto courtiers, then addresses the guard. We will proceed honorably, Captain. The Shoto first claimed the opportuntiy to assist, and have already offered the painting as a gift. Once we have the description, I will have one of my yoriki provide the information to you and we can look for the necklace.
Imuri here turns to the erinyes and beams politely. We will attempt to have the heirloom back to you, along with the head of the brigand. Moreover, there are protocols to follow, but the Spider are not without influence. If we can surrender the criminal to you for satisfaction, or invite you to his sepukku, we will see to it.
Finally, Imuri turns once more to the Captain, his smile diminishing. I will have your name, Captain. You will see this through or I will speak on this matter in court tomorrow.
DRA:
Chujitsuna Kage -Loyal Shadow- |
Chu smiled slightly to himself at the captain of the guards 'quick' recovery, it was not his intention to shame the man. Only to bring him to his senses and restore his pride, and the pride of his men, by performing their duty. He returned his focus on the odd display, it was well designed and ingenious to say the least. But what other secrets did it hide...
He tsked as he moved gracefully towards where one of the servants waited patiently. "It would please me greatly if I could have a glass of Rising Sun." As the servant moved to do as he asked he waited quietly, casting a critical eye around the room. The servant returned promptly with a small glass of wine, the Rising Sun was a weak wine but it would do nicely for what he needed it for. He took a small drink as he casually moved away and back to where he had been investigating the display.
Once he stood before the display he made sure his back was towards any who might be watching. Once he felt comfortable he took a deep breath and concentrated his Ki, focusing inward as he tried to reach a relaxed meditative state. Once he felt more calm and less distracted by the burbling and bustling in the main room nearby, he placed one serpentine finger in the wine and began to stir it in slow methodical circles. With each swirl the wine slowly evaporated away, glowing lightly as it was spent to complete the arcana he had began casting. As he spoke each word to complete the spell the wine disappeared more and more quickly until it was gone...
Chu casts Identify - 60ft cone
Spellcraft - To determine if the strange display has any identifiable properties~ 1d20 + 24 ⇒ (14) + 24 = 38
Correct if you wish, I didn't know if you had a wine selection. So I found a weak Japanese wine and it seemed to fit the overall theme of the Empire. ^^; But please correct me if I do anything out of sync with your world. Thanks bud!
Kyras Erodal |
Kyras Will (to resist the charms of the women) 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (14) + 4 = 18
Bluff 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (20) + 14 = 34
Kyras smoothly sheathes his sword, appearing both graceful and strong. He offers a dazzling smile at the pair of beautiful women. "As you wish. I would love to head outside with you both. Your company is something that the men of my homeland would go to war over." He does not mention that they also go to war for gold. "However, you must forgive my rudeness. I must speak to Shoto Imuri to ensure that I did not insult him in my zeal to defend you. If my business with him does not take too long, I will not let anything, least of all that devil, to prevent me from enjoying your company as long as you both grant me the favor of your presence." He finishes his flattering speech with a genuine smile. Lies come easily to his golden tongue when they are mixed with truths. He would absolutely love to spend more time with them.
After disengaging from the beauties, Kyras makes his way to Shoto Imuri. He glances at the tense scene between him and the captain of the guard, and waits politely until he can speak to the guileful Shoto alone.
Azami Ito |
The series of events immediately following her declaration threaten to defeat Azami's stoic mein with the amount of eye-rolling-worthy displays of political posturing. When Shoto denigrates the captain of the guard for his offer (which was also very out of character for the captain), Azami steps away from the scene: there is someone of higher rank than she involved, and she has no wish to convey her support of his simpering to the Yokai.
Instead she turns towards Kyras...who is all but slobbering on the two beauties on his arm. As the Warbanian breaks away from them towards Imuri, she steps into a position of a guard in the room, surveying the reactions of the devils after this upset.
Surely, the Emperor is testing me by appointing me guardian to this man, wrapped up with these people. I certainly hope the Dawn comes soon - every moment death becomes more a blessed release than before, Azami thinks with a grim humor, carefully schooling her features from showing her amusement.
Bluff to hide smile (because what else would Azami bluff at?) 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 1 = 18
Sense Motive to read the devil & tiefling towards Imuri, if possible 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20