ShogunMaker (Inactive)

Game Master Thackery Baxter J Thorington

Chi You in the Forest
DYNASTY WARRIORS FOR THE WIN! (Hayashi's Map)
assaulting the stronghold
The Leads You've Uncovered
The Generous Bounty of Heaven (loot)
Bai-Cheng's Trading Post
Shogun Maker Campaign Page
Time in Tian Xia (now with Gengs--the actual name for a double-hour!)
Party XP
Your Kingdom So Far
The Charter from King Huan

A campaign set in the Tian Xia realms of Shenmen and Lingshen using the Kingmaker Adventure Path.


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"It varies. Sometimes, there's a full force of twenty, sometimes only eight. Sometimes, there's only one. Lately, they've been sending eight or ten, including their leader, Jia Hua." Bain-Cheng shakily refills the heroes' tea cups as An-Bao quietly sobs into his shoulder. "They usually come from the north, but Jia-Hua, he sometimes comes from the east. Laozu has said he's seen the brute and his wolf wandering the woods out past his hut."

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **

Laozu?

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **

"Who is Laozu?" he asked Bain-Cheng. His wife seemed too distressed to answer.


"Lauzu is a local shaman. He tends the tori in the area, and keeps a small shrine to honor the kami of the hills.". For the first time, Bai-Cheng seems to relax. His eyes even sparkle with mirth. "He brings reiki boxes, ofuda, and talismans from his shrine every full moon. They say he was once a very rich man, but the kami blessed him with their touch, and he gave all of his worldly possessions away and moved here to appease the kami who are angered by the monsters of Shenmen. Now, he wanders the wilderness quieting the yokai and urami."

urami are vengeful spirits


hp 32/32 | AC 18 FF 14 T 14 | F+4 R+5 W +8 | Init +6 | Perc +9 | Spells: 4/2
Dragonofashandflame wrote:
"Lauzu is a local shaman. He tends the tori in the area, and keeps a small shrine to honor the kami of the hills.". For the first time, Bai-Cheng seems to relax. His eyes even sparkle with mirth. "He brings reiki boxes, ofuda, and talismans from his shrine every full moon. They say he was once a very rich man, but the kami blessed him with their touch, and he gave all of his worldly possessions away and moved here to appease the kami who are angered by the monsters of Shenmen. Now, he wanders the wilderness quieting the yokai and urami."

"He is a man we should know, then, Dawei said. "He may have seen much of value to our mission."


Tsui Dawei wrote:


"He is a man we should know, then, Dawei said. "He may have seen much of value to our mission."

Bai-Cheng nods eagerly. "Laozu is a very wise man. His beard is long and gray. His shrine is in the east, a few days' ride from here. You'll know you're near, when you hear the tinkling of bells. Laozu places dorei charms on trees and posts throughout the hills. He says it keeps the urami away."

"Laozu helped that nice couple that came through five years ago, remember, husband?" An-Bao sips her cup, but her eyes are red-rimmed, despite her praise of venerable Laozu. "They wanted to build a farmstead here in the wilderness. They said they'd come from Xi'an. Their homestead was a bit to the west of here, maybe two, three days' ride. They visited every few months, but we haven't heard from them in over two years. Then, the bandits started coming, and I've been too afraid to let Bai-Cheng leave me."

Xi'an is a town in northern Yan province near the border with Shokuro. It's known for having beautiful sugi orchards


Male Human Summoner 4

Baolin grows grim when they mention the Stag Lord's followers. "We were ambushed in Waigonshu by men carrying the pins of the eight-antlered stag. We slew several of them and captured the rest. It seems that our presence may not be a surprise. We must strike quickly and decisively. Tell us more of Jia-Hua and how we might find him before he and his men return." He looks over at Hayashi, knowing that the shinobi's talents may be their best opportunity for tracking the bandit lieutenant.


"Jia-Hua is a cruel man, honorable Lord. He once threatened to feed An-Bao to his wolf if we didn't pay our taxes. He calls what he takes taxes!"Bai-Cheng's brow knits together in profound fury. "My Uncle was a tax-collector for King Huan, noble Sir. Jia-Hua dishonors my family's name! He dishonors the King!"

It takes a minute for the man to settle himself. While he gathers his wits, An-Bao steps in. "He's a cunning warrior. At first, Bai-Cheng tried to follow the bandits. But they lost him through the hills. He has some skill in the wilderness, living in the Chenwei Village never suited him, and the cities. It's better out here, peaceful. And, we can bring honor to our ancestors by civilizing the wilderness."

"Their camp is near water. I know that much."[b] Bai-Cheng hangs his head low, ashamed at his failures. [b]"One of the ruffians said he was so hot he wanted to take a swim back at camp. Their horses have river mud on them, too. I've searched all the rivers nearby, there was no sign of them. I haven't gone too far upstream, though. I don't want to leave An-Bao alone."

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **
Hu Baolin wrote:
Baolin grows grim when they mention the Stag Lord's followers. "We were ambushed in Waigonshu by men carrying the pins of the eight-antlered stag. We slew several of them and captured the rest. It seems that our presence may not be a surprise. We must strike quickly and decisively. Tell us more of Jia-Hua and how we might find him before he and his men return." He looks over at Hayashi, knowing that the shinobi's talents may be their best opportunity for tracking the bandit lieutenant.

Hayashi nodded, observing his teacup. He tilted his head almost imperceptibly at the door to the courtyard, indicating that they should discuss their plans away from the hardworking couple once the tea is over.

@GM: Can we see rivers on the hex map?


Male Human Wizard 1 | AC 13, touch 12, flat-footed 11 | Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +2 | HP 10/10 | Init +2 | Perception +4 | Bardic Performance 6/6 | Splintered Spear 7/7 |
Bard Spells:
1st - 2/2
|
Wizard Spells:
3/3

As they are greeted at the fort.

Xiang observes Bai-Cheng's reaction to armed men arriving at his trading post with some concern. This man is so afraid of banditry he mistrusts immediately. Truly things must be worse than we thought. He bows slightly when introduced by his cousin.

During the tea

During the tea he remains quiet, choosing to allow others to speak as he plans. 8 to 10 bandits, led by this Jia-Hua, who appears to have tamed a wolf, and a week until his next visit. We must plan carefully, for haste shall surely result in this good merchant losing his entire livelihood.

Xiang observed Hayashi's nod, and gave a slight nod of agreement.


if no one has any further questions, you guys can move on talking outside, or do whatever it is you want The only timetable I have is that the bandits are coming in a week to rob poor Bai-Cheng and An-Bao. You can do some exploring, try and find the bandit hideout to take the fight to them, turn around and seek gainful employment as street vendors back in Xiwu, seek out the forces of darkness and aid them on their hellish crusade, or become eunuchs. Y'know whichever.


Bloodrager (HP 40/40 AC 17, T 13, Flat 14 F+6R+4 W+1 Init +3 Per +7
Dragonofashandflame wrote:
if no one has any further questions, you guys can move on talking outside, or do whatever it is you want The only timetable I have is that the bandits are coming in a week to rob poor Bai-Cheng and An-Bao. You can do some exploring, try and find the bandit hideout to take the fight to them, turn around and seek gainful employment as street vendors back in Xiwu, seek out the forces of darkness and aid them on their hellish crusade, or become eunuchs. Y'know whichever.

Ahh addams family....

Jian Xi watches the rest of the talks in silence as he tries to think of the best way to proceed. He eventually gives up and opens his eyes in time to catch Hayashi's signal.


Bard(duettist 2/Rogue(kitsune trickster) 2 (HP 23 AC 13, T 12, Flat 12 F+1R+10 W+3 Init +4 Per +6

Jade Moon listens to the couple tell their tale of living with the bandits. She felt terrible for them and vowed to work hard with Jian Xi to liberate the couple. She speaks softly over her tea whilst looking at the two, "We are going to do everything we can to help you."


An-Bao bobs her head and smiles. Tears well up in her eyes. "Thank you, great lady! Thank you!"

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **

Hayashi waits for one of the group to give an excuse to leave, whispers a thanks for the tea, and leaves to the courtyard.
In the rain, he raised his sugegasa from its position at his back, fastening the strings at his chin.
The sound of rain hit softly against his staw-hat (Unless Lady Jade Moon's head is bare against the rain--in which case, he offers her the hat), and headed to the cart to meet the rest.

If all gather:
"Our mission is to re-settle these lands and keep them safe. The Stag Lord samurai and his lackeys are a natural threat to us," he said, leaning against the cart.
"I've prepared supplies in this here cart that may aid in reconstruction and the building of homes and barricades. The guardsmen Lord Hu requested might be arriving in a few days," he said, nodding to Baolin. "With them holding this fort, we may explore the region with a little more liberty, be able to track down Jia-Hua, and prepare for him and his dark lord."

Self-Reference wrote:
Stag Lord location; Forgotten couple may serve as settlers; meet Laozu


Male Human Wizard 1 | AC 13, touch 12, flat-footed 11 | Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +2 | HP 10/10 | Init +2 | Perception +4 | Bardic Performance 6/6 | Splintered Spear 7/7 |
Bard Spells:
1st - 2/2
|
Wizard Spells:
3/3

"We should, perhaps, get the lay of the nearby land so we know what is around us. I would not wish to range far, but if we stay within a few miles of this trading post, we will be close at hand should there be issue. We may also find Jia-Hua's camp, if he is close by. We could also check on the farmstead that Bai-Cheng mentioned, and see if they are still there and safe."

Basically, I'm saying we should explore the hex with the trading post, or make the three day journey to the farmstead and the three day journey back.

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **
Hu Xiang Lun wrote:
"We should, perhaps, get the lay of the nearby land so we know what is around us. I would not wish to range far, but if we stay within a few miles of this trading post, we will be close at hand should there be issue. We may also find Jia-Hua's camp, if he is close by. We could also check on the farmstead that Bai-Cheng mentioned, and see if they are still there and safe."

"If they are still alive, they would be safer with us. They would aid Bai-Cheng and Ao-Bao in outfitting this place for more arrivals," Hayashi nodded.


hp 32/32 | AC 18 FF 14 T 14 | F+4 R+5 W +8 | Init +6 | Perc +9 | Spells: 4/2
Hu Xiang Lun wrote:

"We should, perhaps, get the lay of the nearby land so we know what is around us. I would not wish to range far, but if we stay within a few miles of this trading post, we will be close at hand should there be issue. We may also find Jia-Hua's camp, if he is close by. We could also check on the farmstead that Bai-Cheng mentioned, and see if they are still there and safe."

Basically, I'm saying we should explore the hex with the trading post, or make the three day journey to the farmstead and the three day journey back.

"There is wisdom in this," Dawei said. "We would shame ourselves to sacrifice the first lives in our charge by going far, but ignorance of the land will slay us as surely as blades."


Male Human Summoner 4

Baolin nods in approval. "I agree. Let us go forth and find this pair, if they still live, and direct them to safety. We should also speak to wise Laozu to learn all that we can about the area and it's inhabitants. Hopefully we can determine where this villainous Jia-Hua stays so that we can strike at him first."

We have a quorum on the exploration suggestion!

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **

Hayashi nodded, adjusting his conical hat against the rain.

What time is it now? I can't find the hour conversion document. Also--for some reason the ShogunMaker page is down. Any reason?


Male Human Wizard 1 | AC 13, touch 12, flat-footed 11 | Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +2 | HP 10/10 | Init +2 | Perception +4 | Bardic Performance 6/6 | Splintered Spear 7/7 |
Bard Spells:
1st - 2/2
|
Wizard Spells:
3/3

"Very well. We shall first journey to this farmstead, then bring the good people back here. It would not do to drag them around with us as we explore."

Xiang wrapped himself deeper in his cloak, as he found being in the rain quite annoying.


Narukami Hayashi wrote:

Hayashi nodded, adjusting his conical hat against the rain.

What time is it now? I can't find the hour conversion document. Also--for some reason the ShogunMaker page is down. Any reason?

i had the document stirred in the campaign details, I moved it to the top, now. It's the bottom of the hour of the Sky Dragon(around 7pm)


Bard(duettist 2/Rogue(kitsune trickster) 2 (HP 23 AC 13, T 12, Flat 12 F+1R+10 W+3 Init +4 Per +6

Upon being offered Hayashi's hat, Jade Moon bows deeply with gratitude. "Thank you friend, even the greatest of my illusions cannot always hide frizzy hair from the rain and humidity." She smiles and reaches for the hat. She places it on her head neatly then gently lifts the hem of her hanfu to prevent her garment from soaking up the rain. She listens intently while the group discusses their next plan shivering from being damp.

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **
Hu Xiang Lun wrote:

"Very well. We shall first journey to this farmstead, then bring the good people back here. It would not do to drag them around with us as we explore."

Xiang wrapped himself deeper in his cloak, as he found being in the rain quite annoying.

Hayashi granted his sugegasa to the graceful Jade Moon, and then said, "We should move out at first light tomorrow, on the Hour of the Sea Dragon. Let us hope such time would be a good sign. Dawei-san, shall you join me in our north-east foray?"

The following does not happen until everyone agrees on our split and goes to bed for the night.

@GM: Hayashi keeps up on watch, before taking bare minimum sleep--his shinobi training keeping from being exhausted in the morning. He cooks his own rice and eggs from materials in his pack, eating silently in the night's weather.
Fortitude vs. fatigue in the morning: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19
Perception; night watch: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25

If there is no interruption or evil ninja in the night:
At the hour of the sea dragon (or 4 AM), Hayashi readied himself, and stood at the courtyard, travel coat concealing his armor underneath. "I hope we meet again soon. We shall strive to return here at the Hour of the Sovereign Dragon."


Male Human Wizard 1 | AC 13, touch 12, flat-footed 11 | Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +2 | HP 10/10 | Init +2 | Perception +4 | Bardic Performance 6/6 | Splintered Spear 7/7 |
Bard Spells:
1st - 2/2
|
Wizard Spells:
3/3

Xiang nods to the suggestion of splitting up. "If you can find this bandit's camp, do not engage him. Simply return and tell us of its location. If he truly has 8 or 9 men with him, they will surely overwhelm you."

Xiang sleeps through the night, assuming there are no interruptions or evil ninja.

Upon the Hour of the Sea Dragon, Xiang stood in the courtyard with Hayashi, saying, "We shall endeavor to see each other soon. No doubt you will return here before us."


hp 32/32 | AC 18 FF 14 T 14 | F+4 R+5 W +8 | Init +6 | Perc +9 | Spells: 4/2
Narukami Hayashi wrote:


Hayashi granted his sugegasa to the graceful Jade Moon, and then said, "We should move out at first light tomorrow, on the Hour of the Sea Dragon. Let us hope such time would be a good sign. Dawei-san, shall you join me in our north-east foray?"

"I will," Dawei said. "And may the Eternal Emperor smile upon all our work."


Bloodrager (HP 40/40 AC 17, T 13, Flat 14 F+6R+4 W+1 Init +3 Per +7

"Just don't get captured it'd be embarrassing if we had to come and rescue the two of you." Jian Xi says with a smile as he claps both men on the shoulders. "Besides I need someone to spar with."


As the six brave warriors walk through the gates after their deliberations, Bai-Cheng pulls the gates shut and bars them with a stout wooden block. ”Forgive me, great lords, but it is best I keep these shut.” He bows and shows the heroes his meager fort. ”This fort was built during the fall of the Empire. It was meant to hold back the army of yokai that poured from the mountains and forests to claim Shenmen. Without it, the yokai could have entered Lingshen! My grandfather served here as a soldier in Lord Huagang’s army. He fought the yokai, when they attacked, and this is where they stopped.” Bai-Cheng fairly radiates pride. ”After the war, Lord Huagang marched back to Qin province, and my grandfather went with him, to serve as a guard in his palace. I was brought up on stories of this place, and I knew that as the youngest son, this was my only chance.” He leads the heroes around the corner to a small two-storied house that An-Bao opens. ”This is our guest house. We use this as an inn for those merchants who come from the the north.” He takes off his geta and puts on a pair of slippers. ”An-Bao has already lit a fire for you! Good!” His wife nods and places another tray of tea in a warmer on a table in the small parlor. The couple bow to the heroes and leave.

The night passes uneventfully, despite Hayashi’s misgivings. No ninjas attack in the night, no yokai or urumi burst from the ashes of the hearth. A light rain falls all through the night. It plays a beautiful back to the songs of the nightingales that continue into the hour of the Archer.

The Hour of the Sea Dragon is full when the Heroes awaken. The Sea Dragon has burst the sky with her mighty tail, and the light rain from yesterday has grown into a downpour. But, such inauspicious weather, and hour, shall not sway intrepid heroes from their duty! King Huan has called upon them for a great purpose, and their noble spirits are not dampened by the weather! An-Boa provides a healthy bowl of congee with century eggs and bamboo shoots. After they are done eating, Bai-Cheng gives the heroes food for their travels, as well. The two stand to the side as the heroes make their final preparations and depart, each group going their separate path.

Tsui Dawei and Narukami Hayashi:

The rain is a great torrent that dulls the world a bleak grey. The colors of the hills and grasses are muted to drab and uninspiring tones. Small wonder that posts in Shenmen were considered demotions in the court of Imperial Lung Wa! But, the two loyal warriors press on, rain dripping over their hats and hoods and slipping down their cloaks. If there is a trail the bandits follow, time and rain have washed all signs of it away. The two stalwart heroes find nothing but drab hills and peat. Occasionally, a copse of cypress crest the hills, or clog a valley and the two must tread carefully--Hayashi has spotted the tracks of wolves in the area. Eventually, night falls without a glimpse of the bandits and Dawei finds a small cave in a hillside for the two to camp in overnight. .

Dawn breaks with a flourish of light, and an ease of the relentless rain to a soft mist that evaporates into a rare bit of sunshine by the Hour of the Ox. The two are cresting another in the endless series of hills in the region when Dawei hears it: the small chime of a bell! The two search and Hayashi spots a string of clay bells fashioned from the zodiac tied to a cypress branch. There’s another on a pole a hill over. The sun is high in the hour of the Ogre when they see him: a happy-looking man with a bald crown and a long fringe of greying hair descending to his back. His beard long as well, trimmed but wild, and a healthy black despite the grey at his temples. He is dressed in a loose hanfu, and carries a staff. A bird comes to him and lands on his bald head before fluttering off again. The man stoops down to pick a few herbs from beneath a cypress tree and shove it into a sack at his side. If the notices the warriors, he has not let on. Could this possibly be Laozu?


Baolin, Jade Moon, Jian Xi, Qingong, and Xiang Lun:

The rain is a great torrent that dulls the world a bleak grey. The colors of the hills and grasses are muted to drab and uninspiring tones. Small wonder that posts in Shenmen were considered demotions in the court of Imperial Lung Wa! The ground remains hill and wet for the first day, and the rain makes the trail slick and treacherous. But the heroes’ horses are surefooted; their masters, seasoned riders, and the horses do not falter. Despite the rain, and the wretchedness of the trail, the heroes make excellent progress, and by the time the rain is letting up near dusk, the ground has begun to turn rocky and more stands of tree appear about the hills. The Gossamer Mountains loom in the distance like ominous sentinels and a cold wind descends from their rocky crags. The night proves to be a chilly one: winter has not yet left the tops of those fierce mountains, and as the sun sets, it chills the night air. Fortunately, though, Xiang Lun remembers that certain trees and mosses can be used together weave an insulating lean-to that provides warmth and shelter for the night. It is a far cry from the comforts of their family palaces, or even the comforts of Waigongshu, but Hu Baolin and Hu Xiang Lun persevere through the night. Jade Moon and her husband, Jian Xi, fair slightly better, but even they cannot say the night is past comfortably.

Dawn breaks with a flourish of light, and an ease of the relentless rain to a soft mist that evaporates into a rare bit of sunshine by the Hour of the Ox. The five noble warriors, full of duty and integrity press further west. The barren hills of lower Shenmen begin to give rise to forested foothills of the Gossamer Mountains, and the heroes begin their search for the family An-Bao had spoken of. They were two, three day west of the fort, after all. As they walk, Jian Xi and Qingong both notice that the lichen and moss hanging from the trees begins to take on patterns and shapes--spiderwebs!

The webs grow thicker in the tree tops, although they remain empty. A fog gently rises into the air, and through the mist, the heroes spot a small cottage surrounded by a rail fence covered in ofuda. The torii leading into the enclosed land bears two dorei and several emma. Although no breeze blows, the charms all rustle and clatter and chime as though whipped by a fierce wind.

I updated the xp totals on the site to reflect exploration xp! Also, heehee, the 2 PCs with survival skills managed to be paired together, and no one else is there!

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **

During the hunt--before sleeping.
"We're too late," Hayashi said to his fellow tracker, examining what appeared to him as tracks, before noticing that there were nothing but natural depressions. "They have not passed by here--at least not yet."
Survival: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11

Hayashi then spotted wolf tracks, and frowned, drawing his short-bow and stringing it before jumping astride his horse. "Any thoughts?"


Male Human Wizard 1 | AC 13, touch 12, flat-footed 11 | Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +2 | HP 10/10 | Init +2 | Perception +4 | Bardic Performance 6/6 | Splintered Spear 7/7 |
Bard Spells:
1st - 2/2
|
Wizard Spells:
3/3

During the journey
Xiang spent the first day grumbling in his head about the weather, but was grateful for his knowledge of the natural world to build the lean-to.

At the cottage
Upon their arrival at the cottage, Xiang looks about to see if he can find any signs of people hidden from sight, possibly keeping watch and having seen their approach.

Perception: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 1 = 14


hp 32/32 | AC 18 FF 14 T 14 | F+4 R+5 W +8 | Init +6 | Perc +9 | Spells: 4/2
Narukami Hayashi wrote:

During the hunt--before sleeping.

"We're too late," Hayashi said to his fellow tracker, examining what appeared to him as tracks, before noticing that there were nothing but natural depressions. "They have not passed by here--at least not yet."
[dice=Survival]1d20+7

Hayashi then spotted wolf tracks, and frowned, drawing his short-bow and stringing it before jumping astride his horse. "Any thoughts?"

"Wolves take prey from the herds. If we find one, we should slay it."

When we find the guy

Dawei rode forward and reined in a respectful distance from the man, hoping not to startle him. He dismounted and called out.

"Hello Grandfather. Are you Laozu?"


Dawei with Laozu:

The old man stumbles and props himself up on his staff. "Oh! Hello, noble warriors! Yes, I am Laozu." His voice is strong and firm. It has the timber of old, sun-warmed, supple leather and stout oak. It is an honest, hard-working voice, full of authority and great wisdom. Calmly, he walks towards the great heroes, leaning heavily on his staff as he makes his way through the shrubs and stones of the hills. His staff is topped by five rings and a bell chime that clatter as he walks. "Blessings and greetings to you, this day." He bows, with his right hand wrapped our his left fist. "I am called Laozu, although, whether that makes me a "wise sage" is debatable. You are such stalwart men, to whom have your service? "

Xiang Lun at the Cottage:

Xiang Lun stands on the pat just before the torii into the forest house. The air is still, despite the rattle and shaking of the talismans on the fence. Yet, despite the darkness of the trees, the magicians's keen eyes pick out several details. The house appears dark, although he detects movement from within. The faint smell of woodsmoke hangs in the air. The cottage, like Bai-Cheng's fort, is run-down and moldering. Moss and lichen thrive in the endless rain of Shenmen and have attacked the house with abandon. A small garden occupies the western side of the veranda, but it has long grown wild. There clearly have been some attempts at maintenance: a scythe stands beside the wall; a basket of vegetables sit beside a stump next to a pile of sodden linens. Both have clearly been left alone for days.

This is what the cottage looks like

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **

Hayashi stopped his midnight horse, holding back on its reins firmly as they approached the man. The soft bell chime reminded him of someone long ago--. A stream of visions flashed in his mind; the torii upon the rainy night, the wandering oracle--and the spirit-strike.
A faint pain pulsed at his forehead.

Hayashi returned the gesture, but otherwise remained silent, avoiding the man's gaze, hoping Tsui would answer for him.

@GM: Please check your PM.
@Xiang Lun: I smell undead...


Bloodrager (HP 40/40 AC 17, T 13, Flat 14 F+6R+4 W+1 Init +3 Per +7

"I don't like the look of this.." Jian Xi says as he draws his short bow ready prepared to protect his less martially inclined companions.


hp 32/32 | AC 18 FF 14 T 14 | F+4 R+5 W +8 | Init +6 | Perc +9 | Spells: 4/2
Dragonofashandflame wrote:

** spoiler omitted **

** spoiler omitted **

With Laozu:
"We serve the true Emperor," Dawei said. "He has charged us to come and restore right rule to this place."

Dawei and Hayashi with Laozu:

Laozu peers narrowly at Hayashi for a moment, as though noticing him for the first time. Then, he turns back to Dawei. "The True Emperor? Hah!" He laughs the throaty, toothless laugh of the aged. His manner is the type of irreverence that is only earned by those who have lived many years and observed all the proprieties and duties of life. "He's been dead for a century."

Baolin, Jade Moon, Jian Xi, Xiang Lun with the creepy house:

Despite Jian Xi's misgivings, the house remains silent. No yokai burst out from the house to attack.
"Who ever's out there.. go away! We want nothing to do with you!" A man's voice calls out from behind the shutters of the house. It's reedy, and quite shaky, like the man is either very excited, or very tired. Possibly both.


hp 32/32 | AC 18 FF 14 T 14 | F+4 R+5 W +8 | Init +6 | Perc +9 | Spells: 4/2
Dragonofashandflame wrote:

** spoiler omitted **

** spoiler omitted **

:
Dawei stiffened, but controlled his tone.

"Grandfather, the Heaven's Mandate lives beyond the span of any man. When the old emperor joins his divine ancestors, a new emperor comes. The emperor is eternal. Too long this place has been without his strong rule, but we come to remedy that. We will prevail and bring order, or prove ourselves unworthy."

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **

Dawei and Hayashi with Laozu:
Hayashi noted the tone of the old man, and reached to Tsui Dawei's shoulder, speaking up for the first time--his voice was soft, "Strictly speaking, Ojiisan, we are on a mission to relieve the people of this land and bring them harmony from this chaos. There is a curse and darkness on this land--and we wish to relieve them of it."
At the last sentence, his voice turned strangely hoarse--as if talks of curses struck him deeply.
He then shook his head, and said, voice back to normal, "We are based around Bai-Cheng's trading post--you remember them, I take it: you are known as a wise man by them--is there anything you know that could help us on our mission?"


Male Human Summoner 4

Diplomacy 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13
Sense Motive 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7

Baolin shows his hands to the unseen person behind the windows, taking pains to show that they are not hostile. He clears his throat to tell Xi to put his weapon down so as to not frighten the man. "Greetings and good tidings! We come as friends to give you aid and safety in these dangerous times. Might we speak as comrades?" Baolin tries to seem as non-threatening as a man with several armed companions and a dragon can seem. He listens for a response, hoping that their good nature will be clearly apparent.

Poor rolls!


Male Human Wizard 1 | AC 13, touch 12, flat-footed 11 | Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +2 | HP 10/10 | Init +2 | Perception +4 | Bardic Performance 6/6 | Splintered Spear 7/7 |
Bard Spells:
1st - 2/2
|
Wizard Spells:
3/3

Leaning forward, Xiang said, "We have been chartered by King Huang to settle this land, and bring civilization to it. We spoke with Bai-Cheng, and he said you were out this way. We thought we would see if you are well."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25


Dawei and Hayashi:

Laozu chuckles as Dawei speaks. "You are much too serious, young warrior. Much, much too serious." He laughs again. "Now, you say you are staying with Bai-Cheng and An-Bao? They are decent people. Hardworking, diligent. Honest. It has been several moons since I last saw them!"[b] He begins walking towards the north. Hayashi can just make out a small cottage that looks more like a copse of trees and small hillock of moss than a human dwelling. [b]"Come! We shall talk inside.
Assuming they follow him... Inside the cottage, Laozu provides steaming hot cups of tea amid admonishments to "sit! sit!" "So, you want to bring order to these lands? That is good. Very good. Yokai and obake fill the forests and mountains. Aragami and yurei stalk the hills and waters at night. They feed on the misery the Stag Lord spreads. If you are going to stop them, all of them, and bring order to these lands... I will help you. The bandits move their camp every few days. This is why Bai-Cheng hasn't been able to find them. I've been tracking them, but I am but one old man."

Baolin, Jade Moon, Jian Xi, Xiang Lun:

Jian Xi draws his bow and holds it ready, the aura of the place unsettles him so. Perhaps, this is why Baolin's words do not move the family within the cursed home.

However, Xiang Lun leans forward on his horse and calls out to the house. "We have been chartered by King Huang to settle this land, and bring civilization to it. We spoke with Bai-Cheng, and he said you were out this way. We thought we would see if you are well." For minutes, his words hang in the air, while within the house, all is silent. But, eventually, the door opens and a haggard looking man appears.

His eyes are wide, his hair wild. His frame is gaunt as though he has been starving for days. Beside him stands a woman, frail and thin. A small child peeps out from behind his legs. "No, Li-Wu! Back! These people are strangers!" The child refuses to move, and the father clutches the boy to his chest and wraps his arm around his wife's shoulders.

"You know Bai-Cheng?" His wife sways as she stands, and slumps to the ground.

"No! An-Ya! You mustn't sleep! Remember! You mustn't!" He falls to the floor, still holding his son and shakes her roughly. His voice is frantic and wild. "Do not sleep!"

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **

Hayashi followed the older man as they walked, and took a cup of tea. At the cottage, he introduced both himself and his ally. Assuming Tsui doesn't mind.
"A warrior indeed--this sir is honorable Tsui Dawei, a soldier of Lingshen. Before you is the feeble Narukami Hayashi," he pointed at himself humbly. "Nothing more than another loyal soldier of King Huang's forces--he was the one who gathered us to aid these lands and blessed our path."

Laozu wrote:
"So, you want to bring order to these lands? That is good. Very good. Yokai and obake fill the forests and mountains. Aragami and yurei stalk the hills and waters at night. They feed on the misery the Stag Lord spreads. If you are going to stop them, all of them, and bring order to these lands... I will help you. The bandits move their camp every few days. This is why Bai-Cheng hasn't been able to find them. I've been tracking them, but I am but one old man."

"We intend to confront the villainous Jia-Hua before he collects his tribute from Bai-Cheng and An-Bao. Confronting both bandits and their leader seems beyond our current strength for now," he said thoughtfully, palming his cup for the tea's warmth.

"But slaying him would surely bring the Stag Lord's eyes to bear upon their home the day after. How might we rid ourselves of him without inviting their master upon us, Laozu-ojiisan?"


Male Human Wizard 1 | AC 13, touch 12, flat-footed 11 | Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +2 | HP 10/10 | Init +2 | Perception +4 | Bardic Performance 6/6 | Splintered Spear 7/7 |
Bard Spells:
1st - 2/2
|
Wizard Spells:
3/3

"My good man, we do indeed know Bai-Cheng, and have come from his trading post. You appear to be in a great state of exhaustion. Is there something we may do for you? Perhaps keep watch so that you may rest for some time?"

Xiang looked at the three in concern. What sort of life have they lived that they fear sleep so?


Bloodrager (HP 40/40 AC 17, T 13, Flat 14 F+6R+4 W+1 Init +3 Per +7

Why do none of us know heal?!?!?!?

Jian Xi startles as the woman suddenly collapses. He suddenly wishes he had paid more attention when the monks talked about healing a body of wounds and other afflictions.


hp 32/32 | AC 18 FF 14 T 14 | F+4 R+5 W +8 | Init +6 | Perc +9 | Spells: 4/2

"Hayashi speaks the truth of the matter," Dawei said.


Dawei and Hayashi with Laozu:

"Even the swiftest bird must rest." Laozu sips his tea after he hears the two warriors speak. "If you strike, you must strike fast and without rest. A horse that does not ride, bears no news."

Baolin, Jade Moon, Jian Xi, and Xiang Lun with the Creepy Family at the Creepy House:

The man begins shaking with fear at the mention of sleep. He looks to his wife and back to the assembled heroes several times before he closes his eyes and nods, once. "Please, noble warriors, enter my home. Help us!" He steps aside and clutches his insensate wife to his chest, burying his face in his child's side.

"They come when we sleep." Li-Wu speaks with a child's innocence, unaware, or unaccustomed to the propriety of addressing such noble personages such as Hu Baolin and Hu Xiang Lun. "They don't like to be seen, so they stay away when we are awake."


Male Human Wizard 1 | AC 13, touch 12, flat-footed 11 | Fort +2, Ref +4, Will +2 | HP 10/10 | Init +2 | Perception +4 | Bardic Performance 6/6 | Splintered Spear 7/7 |
Bard Spells:
1st - 2/2
|
Wizard Spells:
3/3

Dismounting, Xiang tied his horse's reins to a fence, then went to enter the house and find out more about these things that come when they sleep.


Male Human Summoner 4

Knowledge: Local 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14

Baolin and qinglong rush to the aid of the stricken family. "Cousin, do you know what ails them? What sort of yokai would do this?" He steps to the side, trying his best not to alarm the master of the house. He tries to consider what might be the cause of their fear and exhaustion, but it is difficult to determine which of the myriad evils of this realm might be at fault.

Dark Archive

Male Humanoid (Human), HP 25, Fort +8, Ref +10, Will +4, Init +6, Perception +9 (low light), Sense Motive +6, Stealth +11 Slayer 1 (Stygian)/Monk (Unchained) 3 ** Deflect Arrows (Passive) **
Laozu wrote:
"Even the swiftest bird must rest." Laozu sips his tea after he hears the two warriors speak. "If you strike, you must strike fast and without rest. A horse that does not ride, bears no news."

"This means that Jia-Hua does not normally report back to the dark shogun unless necessary," Hayashi said, looking to Tsui. He turned back to Laozu, and asked, "Do the two often meet in a particular place? If so, would you say that the Stag Lord beyond our power, or should we attempt to ambush him as well?"


Hayashi and Dawei with Laozu:

"This means that Jia-Hua does not normally report back to the dark shogun unless necessary," Hayashi said, looking to Tsui. He turned back to Laozu, and asked, "Do the two often meet in a particular place? If so, would you say that the Stag Lord beyond our power, or should we attempt to ambush him as well?" Laozu sips his tea and sighs. "A mouse does not ask a fish how to fly. I have never seen Jia-Hua and the Stag Lord in the same meeting. How they communicate with each other, I do not know. I do know the Stag Lord as a strong warrior. Facing him is not to be taken lightly."

Baolin, Jade Moon, Jian Xi, Xiang Lun at the Creepy House:

As Baolin looks down at the woman, he sees a dark shadow cross her throat. It's characteristic of legends he's heard about hauntings. An angry spirit can, at times, latch on to people or objects, and feed on their souls during certain conditions. The shadow is on all of their necks, but retreats as the father adjusts his position to let Baolin and the others in. It retracts from them as he steps back into the darkness of the room.

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