Ji inspects the bite mark, marveling at its small size. She whispers some druidic words to detect if there is poison in her brother.
Even the magic can't decide if Wu-Yao is poisoned or not; he is showing a lot of the telltale physiological reactions but none of the tissue damage or corruption of the blood that one would expect to find.
Whatever it is, it isn't the usual kind of naga venom.
”Time to go,” she says, rolling him into a position where she can lift him. She gets her shoulder under his abdomen and pushes her legs against the ground while repositioning his body to align their centers of gravity. ”Let’s get you out of here.”
In the time it takes the emperor to write a few words in the dirt, Chu Zhu Ji reemerges from the cave carrying Wu-Yao.
While he's obviously still alive, Wu-Yao is completely unconscious and cold to the touch.
In the sculpture of time they are still one unbroken line...
In his dream, Wu-Yao's consciousness returns to it's place in the time snake of all life. With time as the third dimension, the fourth dimension becomes time travel. As easily as walking forwards or backwards Wu-Yao can slide along his personal timeline...
"Relinquish the sword," says the Weili Prince "And you can keep your pathetic life."
"Please, my friend, to your feet." Wu-Yao insists and helps Mr.Hu up from the ground.
"Most people know us as Light Sword and Dark Sword and, with respect, we've never needed help to kill a demon before."
Wu-Yao strokes the vipers chin, her tongue flicking wildly, tasting the new air. He feels the rush of uncertainty pulsing from his familiar, mirroring his own. "Together, we will achieve greatness."
"The Prophecy of Nine Swords is fulfilled. Only the gods can help us now."
"The chieftain of our tribe must spend his youth wandering the world, gaining the breadth of wisdom necessary to lead."
Moving backwards he slips, and falls into the undertow of time.
The dimensions unfold and Wu-Yao's perception of time returns to normal, but he is not where he thought he would be. He is back at his home, the snake village, only he isn't. The people have the look of his tribe, but Wu-Yao knows by name every citizen of the village and can recognize none of these people. The village itself also seems different. The worn away interior of the ancestral cave seems sharp and freshly carved. The pigments in the pictograms on the wall are more vibrant. This village is the spring to Wu-Yao's village's autumn.
Yong hears the message go off, but Ji beats him to a run. Instead, since it appears that he is the only one out here with the emperor and Ming Yue, he decides to stay and guard them, in case something stupid comes up the path to the cave. He looks down at the emperor and says, "You are not expecting any company, are you?" (), as Yong goes into a guard position in front of the two. He takes a quick glance back to Ji as she enters the cave, and mentally wishes her luck in saving their brother.
"You are not expecting any company, are you?"
The emperor turns to Ming Yue.
"The four of you are the first people I have seen here in weeks," she says "No one outside of the society should even know where we are."
When Chu Zhu Ji returns with Wu-Yao the emperor joins you all in crowding around him. Ming Yue just stands where she is with her arms crossed.
The emperor doesn't take his time with his next message in the dirt:
"He's injured. We need to find a healer."
"So are you, your majesty," says Ming Yue "Please don't let all this energy go to your head."
She turns to all of you.
"We are a long way from Mount Emei. Do you have allies nearby?"
"Given that we have injured people, perhaps we should withdraw to a place that has healers that can mend the broken bones and look at Wu-Yao's...um poison. Were you poisoned?"
"Perhaps we could get them to Mount Kunlun. How far away is that, does anyone know?"
After hearing Wu-Yao's answer...
Worryingly, Wu-Yao is completely unresponsive, having passed out from the pain.
... there was a touch of... swordplay in the way he handled the brush...
The swordsman banished the distracting thoughts and replied to Yong in a calm, steady voice, "I am unfamiliar with our location but I would hope that any village would have someone knowledgeable in herbs or at least be able to direct us towards another that does."
Disgust at his own hesitation in replying to Wu-Yao's pleas and worry over both of their now incapacitated charges made Flying Sword momentarily forget the genius he had witnessed in the Emperor's calligraphy.
What in the heavens...
Wu-Yao stands frozen in his home that is not his home, hands clenched on his forehead, grasping desperately at his thoughts, trying in vain to comprehend this strange turn of events. Briefly, his mind slams to a halt. "Xiaoqing?" He reaches toward his neck, wondering if his familiar has made this journey with him or if he's truly alone…
What to make of all this? The Naga… but how? He recalls the Naga's last words before being transported…
"Enlightened venoms burn away the ignorance of warm blood. The weight of it balances the debt."
What rare poison was bestowed upon me by the Naga? What manner of magic is this? He racks his mind, grasping for any shred arcane knowledge pertaining to the unusual Naga venom or the time snakes.
The old blood… it runs so strong. The memories… and mother… He takes a moment to catch his breath and balance his Qi. Mustn't stand around gawking… He begins to walk with the natural direction of foot traffic, trying to blend in, headed no where in particular. He walks this way for a few minutes to observe his surroundings further trying to gain a clearer idea of not where he is, but when. He also tries to figure out how far the the Chieftain's lair is from the location at which he appeared.
"Xiaoqing?" He reaches toward his neck, wondering if his familiar has made this journey with him or if he's truly alone…
The little snake is nowhere to be seen, but similar snakes slither around everywhere.
Know.Arcana: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
Nothing in Wu-Yao's training said anything about magic Naga venom or time snakes (although Naga have always been weird and talk about everything in term of either time or snakes). You will have to learn as much as you can so you can pass this knowledge on to your successor.
He also tries to figure out how far the the Chieftain's lair is from the location at which he appeared.
The Chieftain's lair is at the back of the cave, a short walk from almost anywhere in the village.
He begins to walk with the natural direction of foot traffic, trying to blend in, headed no where in particular.
The flow of human traffic quickly brings him to 'the circle', a natural amphitheater a few minute's walk from the cave. Over the course of about a half hour the entire adult population of the village seems to have arrived, and take their seats.
At center stage, resplendent in his ceremonial garb, is the Chieftain. His hair is braided and covered with cured snake skins, and he is wearing a bright colored snake-pattern robe. In his hand is a great golden snake-staff, a symbol of office that was lost to the tribe generations ago.
Beside him is an imperial official in chains. He has obviously been beaten rather recently.
You used to come here when you were a kid to watch plays...
Ji answers Yong’s question about the poison. ”My taoist magic was inconclusive. Perhaps it’s not a poison, but rather something else. What that could be...” she shrugs. ”For now he’s asleep.”
Ji studied the Emperor. ”Later I would like to hear how you passed the guardians that injured Wu-Yao. Ming-Yue is correct. You must not overexert yourself.”
After mentioning the woman, Ji turned her attention to her. ”Allies nearby? No, we don’t. Our journey here was unexpected.” She smiles as if she just told a joke. ”Mount Emei, did you travel through Yuan or Bai? Do you have horses?”
Ji nodded at the woman’s answer. ”We do need to decide where to go. I can scout as an eagle. Perhaps there is a village not too far away. As for healing, tomorrow I will be able to call upon the tao’s teachings and provide some relief to the Emperor and Wu-Yao...if that is what he needs,” her eyes rest on Wu-Yao’s form.
”I know I need to see an experienced healer at Mount Kunlun or Mount Wudang for healing. Facing that demoness was a terrible ordeal.” She rested her hand in the middle of her chest, a look of grave uncertainty on her face.
Ji studied the Emperor. ”Later I would like to hear how you passed the guardians that injured Wu-Yao. Ming-Yue is correct.
The emperor's eyes widen as though he just remembered something. He takes off the ring and gestures to it, as though it was an answer to your question.
He places the ring on the stone floor near the cave mouth, and then pantomimes someone slashing at it with a sword. Ming Yue holds her tongue but makes a disgusted face.
You must not overexert yourself.”
”Mount Emei, did you travel through Yuan or Bai? Do you have horses?"
"I made my way here in a circuitous route. If I were to leave from Mount Emei to come here today I would travel west, through Bai. I have no horses."
”I know I need to see an experienced healer at Mount Kunlun or Mount Wudang for healing. Facing that demoness was a terrible ordeal.”
"I mislike the Kunlun, but this still seems to be our best option," says Ming Yue "We must tell them nothing of the society. We are merely Wulin fighters, injured from a battle with a demon, seeking aid."
While you discuss things, you begin to make your way down the mountain. You have a long walk ahead of you and it would not do to waste time.
When you pass by the abandoned beggar's camp, where you initially appeared thanks to the old man, you are surprised to see a veritable herd of fine looking horses, already saddled and casually eating grass. There are six of them, exactly the number of your group.
Sitting on a large stump, that was obviously being used as a makeshift table, is a small porcelain bowl of water. Floating in the center of the water is a single perfect star lotus.
When the ring was placed upon the stone, Flying Sword anticipated the Emperor's desire and the gesture confirmed it. He rose slowly and drew Black Metal Sword smoothly. The somber man gave warning as to his intentions.
'I will attempt to shatter the evil ring and hopefully the demoness inside as well. I suggest you all stand clear.'
Gathering his Qi as the others made their way to a safe distance, Flying Sword thought back to his master's teachings. Zin Sun-Hai's melodious voice still carried a certain sternness in his memory... leave emotion and never forget to breath...let intent guide your sword...
He moved without preamble. His blade making a soft swoosh as it cut through the 48th Cut of his Soft Snow Style. Ice Cracks at Dusk was a simple yet deceptively dangerous cut that flashed from his left hip in a scything arc and it rang out as it struck the ring.
"I suggest you all stand clear."
Ji stands well away, her own sword drawn if the demoness should make another appearance. Looking for any clues as to what form he will use, she studies Flying Sword gathering his qi. Soft Snow Style...yes, but wh—Ice Cracks At Dawn?! Splendid technique.
"We must tell them nothing of the society. We are merely Wulin fighters, injured from a battle with a demon, seeking aid."
”Of course, we will say nothing of your society. We are not members but that doesn’t mean we will expose you.”
Along the way down the mountain, Ji asks, ”If you don’t mind, how did you acquire your sword? We discovered the reason our three swords are similar. They are Dugu’s former swords.”
Floating in the center of the water is a single perfect star lotus.
”See, the star lotus society strikes again,” Ji says with a chuckle. ”At least this way I don’t have to transform into a mule to carry Wu-Yao.”
His blade making a soft swoosh as it cut through the 48th Cut of his Soft Snow Style. Ice Cracks at Dusk was a simple yet deceptively dangerous cut that flashed from his left hip in a scything arc and it rang out as it struck the ring.
The magic blade strikes the black ring, and it is split in two. The force of the attack unleashes flashing light and a billowing black cloud of concentrated mist, but it quickly dissipates in the air.
All that is left is the two pieces of the ring, still sizzling hot.
Along the way down the mountain, Ji asks, ”If you don’t mind, how did you acquire your sword? We discovered the reason our three swords are similar. They are Dugu’s former swords.”
"I'm well aware of the connection between our weapons. I came to the Sword Tomb in my youth seeking the Sword Devil's secrets. The ghost of Dugu Qiubai guided me to my sword. He cannot rest until a mortal martial artist is able to surpass his skill with the sword, and I intend to be the one to help him pass on."
Her hand brushes against the hilt of her sword.
"The swords the three of you wield are not mere weapons, they represent an oath. If it is one you plan to break the swords themselves will see to it that you suffer an oathbreaker's fate."
'It is done then.' Flying Sword gave his brief appraisal of the situation and didn't spare a second look at the ring as he sheathed his sword and made ready to leave the glade.
--------------------------------
Interest blossomed in Flying Sword at the Emperor's mention of an oath and doubly so at what would happen if they broke that oath.
--------------------------------
'Hah!' barked the swordsman at Chu's mule joke despite the gravity of their brother's condition. The sight of the horses was a welcome one indeed and as Chu Zhu Ji pointed out, a blessing of the Star Lotus Society.
'Good tidings, we will make much better time now.'
You all mount up, and begin the long journey to Mount Kunlun. Ming Yue does not approve of the emperor riding in his "condition", but he characteristically ignores her.
You stop at the first village you pass, where Ming Yue buys supplies and a fresh set of clothes for the emperor. These include a long cloak that he can use to cover his wreck of a face from casual view.
From there you decide to avoid any towns unless necessary, to keep from drawing too much attention. Ming Yue is not very chatty, and the emperor still lacks a tongue, so you are left to your own devices to pass the time.
While Ming Yue was shopping Flying Sword finally retrieved the book from his pack that they had retrieved from the Emperor's gnarled grasp back in the cave. He folded his legs under him and meditated until he felt his Qi gather before opening the book and reading the first page.
While Ming Yue was shopping Flying Sword finally retrieved the book from his pack that they had retrieved from the Emperor's gnarled grasp back in the cave. He folded his legs under him and meditated until he felt his Qi gather before opening the book and reading the first page.
Both Ming Yue and the emperor are in town buying supplies, leaving the rest of you to your own devices. He sits in the shade of a large tree, around which the horses are grazing, and opens the Nine Swords of Dugu Manual.
Earth and Heaven
Are a stove
Nature is the worker
Yin and Yang are
As charcoal
Thousand things are copper
It humanizes Dugu somewhat to learn that he shares the same penchant for depressing poetry as contemporary martial arts masters.
To learn this sword method, emphasis must be placed on understanding, not on memory or imitation. When you understand the intention of these Nine Swords, you can apply them in every situation. Even if you forget them totally, it will not be a problem. When facing an opponent, the more you forget, the less you will be obstructed by the original sword style.
What follows are some very profound energy cultivation techniques, exercises and basic kung fu techniques. Even though the first section focuses exclusively on fundamentals, they are so exquisite that you are certain that if you began to practice them both you and your sworn siblings should be able to substantially increase the strength of your kung fu.
The rest of the book seems to detail nine different martial arts, the so-called Nine Swords of Dugu. Aside from the first form, which is called the "transitional form" and is used to switch between the others, each is designed to perfectly counter a specific weapon. There is a sword-defeating stance, a sabre-defeating stance, a spear-defeating stance, a mace-defeating stance, a whip-defeating stance, a palm-defeating stance, an arrow-defeating stance, and a qi-defeating stance.
With some practice, you could learn any of these powerful martial arts with the instructions in this manual, or even all of them given enough time.
Yong's thoughts have been muddled for the past few days. In all his years, he never once thought that he would be escorting the 'true' emperor across the lands of his celestial domain. He also didn't expect that his emperor would look like a dog had shat all over him, and then used his face to bury the shat. He was very concerned for the emperor's wounds; he hoped that they would not fester or get worse by the time that the group found a healer for him. Yong was not an expert in the medicinal arts, but one didn't have to be to realize that it would a long time before any concubine found him attractive again.
Yong also wondered about the events in the cave, and how everything impacted both himself and his friends. Wu-Yao seemed to have recovered from the naga bite, yet he seemed...off somehow. Nothing that Yong could place, but still there nonetheless. Part of Yong wished that the demon would be the last one that he ever saw, but knew in his heart that it would not ever be the case.
One the second night of their journey, Yong saw Flying Sword opening a book under a tree and realized that it was the book from the cave! He had forgotten all about it. Walking up to Sword, Yong says, "Is there anything of use in there for us, or is it another book of poetry?"
...such enlightenment...it all seems so simple... and yet I know it is not so simple...
As Zhang's shadow fell across the pages, Flying Sowrd snapped out of his reading with wonder evident on his now scarred face.
'It does indeed contain poetry brother Yong and there is much in here for all of us to learn.' The serious man closed the book softly and held it out with both hands. 'Take a look. It has already given me much to think about and even more to try out.'
After giving the book over, Flying Sword resumed his meditation to assist his mind in withholding everything that he had read. Later he would begin training in the new techniques.
'Take a look. It has already given me much to think about and even more to try out.'
Reading through the same opening section as Flying Sword, Zhang Yong finds many enlightening techniques and forms that he will be able to use to significantly enhance the power of his own kung fu.
The sword styles outlined in the book are also very interesting. They don't seem to hinge upon the use of a blade as much as one might thing. Yong is fairly certain he could adapt the styles for use with his bare hands.
Wu-Yao tries his best not to stare in wonder at the tribal chieftain on stage before him. The great golden staff… how many generations back must I have traveled? And what of this officer, what trouble has befallen these times? Why was I sent here?
He thinks back to the last memory he experienced in the flowing stream of the time-snake;
"The chieftain of our tribe must spend his youth wandering the world, gaining the breadth of wisdom necessary to lead."
Momentarily, a feeling of pride overwhelms him. A love for his people and a strange homesickness in this most familiar place. I must observe for now, learn everything I can. Have past chieftains traveled this way? Perhaps I can gain audience with this chieftain later… would he even believe me?
He quickly takes a seat amongst the others, still doing his best to blend in.
He quickly takes a seat amongst the others, still doing his best to blend in.
The prisoner on the stage, though badly beaten, is still defiant.
"You are fooling yourselves barbarians! You are accomplishing nothing here but sealing your own fates! The Emperor of Heaven is ruler of all mankind! No petty tribe cowering in caves can defy the will of Heaven!"
The chieftain smiles and, addressing the crowd more than the prisoner, responds.
"That is where you are mistaken. Let your heavenly emperor claim dominion over humans. He will discover, as you are about to, that We. Are. No. Mere. Humans."
The chieftain seems to grow taller as his legs melt together and elongate, causing his torso to rise into the air. As he continues to lengthen his entire upper body tears open into the shape of a gaping snake's mouth, dripping with venom.
The crowd erupts into cheers.
Whatever haughty bravado the prisoner once had drains away, and he lets out a terrified scream. In one snapping movement the now giant-snake chieftain seizes the prisoner in it's mouth and then swallows him whole.
The cheering crowd becomes almost deafening. Many wave colorful strips of cloth. The colors in the cloth seem to bleed together and become bright and indistinct. Wu-Yao can only really make out colorful spots of light. His eyes hurt, like he was seeing light for the first time in days.
Wu-Yao finds himself with his sworn siblings again, blinking against the harsh light. A group of horses have been tied off and are grazing, as they are every time they're mentioned.
Wu-Yao feels... different. Strange powers have been awakened within him, putting his qi out of balance, or perhaps re-balancing it.. Even his sworn siblings can immediately sense the difference in his energy.
Rising from the lotus position and breathing deep of the crisp air, Flying sword left Zhang to his studied... he can afford little to no distractions at this point... The swordsman was excited for what his friend was about to learn and wore a ready smile as strode away to find Chu.
He found his sword sister no too far away and it didn't appear that she was indisposed so he approached and gave her a common salute.
'Chu Zhu Ji, I have read Dugu's book, which I advise you read as soon Zhang Yong is finished; and would like to work on some of the techniques mentioned therein. Would you indulge me with a sparring session?'
When she obliges, Flying Sword will show his Sword Sister the new unorthodox stance that the book began with and will flow through the form with patience so she can pick it up. Satisfied that she had grasped the basics, Flying Sword initiated some light sparring to see how the techniques worked against what they already knew.
Sweating and exhilarated as their training winded down, Sword offered a formal salute and thanked his sister.
'Much gratitude Chu Zhu Ji, it looks as if Zhang Yong is finished reading, you should take the opportunity to read Dugu's teachings. You already have a head start having seen the forms. Enjoy.'
The four of you study the manual together, and see what insights you can glean from it.
Wu-Yao, who read aloud the descriptions of each of the swords in the Sword Tomb, notices some kind of a connection between the styles described in the book and the story of each of the weapons. None of you, however, are able to determine what that connection is.
You all still benefit greatly from the wisdom of the manual; it contains profound kung fu. By utilizing the skills of the manual you can already feel your qi flow becoming stronger.
Working together you all begin to study the first "transitional" martial art described in the manual, a mastery of which is required to use all the others. After a few hours of practice you all have the basics down, and could continue to train the method on your own.
He cannot rest until a mortal martial artist is able to surpass his skill with the sword, and I intend to be the one to help him pass on."
”That’s a worthy goal. I wish you success! Maybe three hundred years from now wulin will be leaving your tomb having a similar conversation...though that’s not to say I hope you become a ghost and can’t pass on to the afterlife,” she adds with a chuckle.
As dawn approaches, Ji prays and meditates. Her concern for easing the Emperor’s pain and Wu-Yao’s condition blossoms within her. The magic for neutralizing poison and for healing wounds form clearly, ready for release.
She nods at Flying Swords invitation to spar with him as he demonstrates his new knowledge. When it’s her turn to study the manual with the others, she feels the knowledge opening a new path to a deeper understanding of martial arts. It helps to ameliorate the loss she suffered fighting the demoness.
About an hour later, Ming Yue and the Emperor return. You pack up your things, as well as your new supplies, and head out towards Mount Kunlun.
Each day over the next week of travel Chu Zhu Ji prepares inner alchemy rituals to mend the broken bones of the emperor. After a week of work she is able to mostly heal his bones. The charm given to him by Flying Sword, likewise, helps seal up some of his open wounds and sores. When it has finished it's work the Emperor insistently returns the charm to the swordsman.
Spring is just beginning to turn into summer, and the ride is actually very nice. You are a fairly recognizable group in these parts, and none of the local bandits prove suicidal enough to attempt to mess with the Demon-Slaying Tigers (who have been known to lower themselves to being Bandit-Slaying Tigers when the mood strikes them).
Chu Zhu Ji finishes healing the Emperor's bones just in time, because after the first week the pill wears off and, exactly as Ming Yue prophetically nagged, the Emperor exacerbated his injuries with all his moving about. Although he is healed of all but the most serious of his injuries, such as the loss of his tongue, the weariness of so many months in a cave surviving purely on his qi, plus the week of travel, finally catch up to him. He looks incredibly tired.
After the first week you stop at another remote village to buy supplies, and you are all able to take advantage of the time to practice some of the skills in the manual. You have all learned the foundations of the First Sword of Dugu well enough to use it in a fight.
It takes another week of hard riding, the lovely weather having turned to hard rains, before you finally arrive at Mount Kunlun. There is a small village, a few huts and a Taoist temple really, at the foot of the massive staircase leading up the mountain to the Grand Celestial Pagoda at the top. You all spends days running up and down similar staircases during your training, although the Kunlun take great pride in having the tallest such staircase in all the Wulin (by 8 steps, an auspicious number).
You dismount and Ming Yue tersely arranges to pay one of the villagers to look after your horses for a few days.
At first Flying Sword thought to test himself with the stairs but the temple drew him and he let his fellow Tigers know that they could find him there.
He stopped at a local merchant's stand and purchased a few pieces of the ripest fruit he could find.
With the small bag in hand he fingered his prayer beads as he made his way to the temple. He paused long enough to gather himself and dismiss negative thoughts. He walked to the altar and placed the afore bought fruit in a small pyramid on it. Gathering three sticks of incense from the provided holder he lit them and then slowly knelt. Splaying the incense in his right hand while cupping it in the left and then bowed three times as he was taught. Rising to put the burning incense in the sand filled urn with other of its like, the swordsman then found an area where he would be out of the way of other Taoists, knelt again and prayed for some time.
Wu-Yao spends any extra traveling time balancing his new found magic abilities with his qi. He spends much time alone, practiving strange gestures over and over, communing with Xiaoqing for hours on end. He tries his best to act himself around his siblings, but he even admits openly he is a bit out of sorts.
As they travel, he finds time to thank Chu-Zhu-Ji for attempting to detect and identify the Naga's poison. He confesses he doesn't know much more than she. He explains to her the details of his journey, confiding in his sister. Though he still awaits answers to many questions, he's confident they will reveal themselves in time, with his fellow Tigers at his side.
When the reach Mount Kunlun, Wu-Yao respectfully nods to Flying Sword as he makes his way to the temple, unsurprised his brother would take time out for prayer. He takes advantage of the spare moment to commune further with Xiaoqing in a remote corner of town somewhere.
Although it is not typically his thing, Yong walks up the steps leading to the Pagoda to pay his respect. 'At least I can work out the kinks in my bottom from riding that steed,' Yong thinks to himself, as he slowly makes his way to the top. After staying for a short amount of time (not short enough to insult the Taoists, but not long enough to listen to their long-winded speeches), he works his way back down. He then goes to see about the emperor to see if he can be made better.
He stopped at a local merchant's stand and purchased a few pieces of the ripest fruit he could find.
Today isn't market day, so in the whole of the village there is just one stall. Flying Sword is able to purchase a scraggly looking apple, and counts himself lucky for having found it.
A half an hour later you have all made the long climb up the stairs, paid your respects, and walked into the temple proper.
There are no guards on the doors to the Grand Celestial Pagoda; anyone attempting to cause trouble would find nearly everyone in the area is a master of kung fu. Still, as soon as you enter the beautiful main lobby, two gruff looking swordsmen, one with a greatsword and one with a longsword, approach. They're obviously Big Divine Blade and Little Divine Blade, although you've never met either of them before.
"What have we here? Two Wudang fighters," then, almost as an after thought "...and your entourage. What brings you all the way out here to Mount Kunlun and the Grand Celestial Pagoda?" Little Divine Blade asks, grinning wide. It's not as friendly a smile as he seems to think it is.
”A taoist priestess as well,” Ji says indicating herself to Little Divine Blade. ”A quarter of the Tiger Fighting Demons. Indeed, I was injured fighting a demon. She struck me with her staff and...I’ve felt diminished every since. A loss of qi, either slowed or blocked, I don’t know. Plus my soul no longer feels whole. I would like to see it restored. I’ve heard the sages of the Grand Celestial Pagoda can help me.”
She gently claps her hand on the Emperor’s shoulder, ”He was injured in the battle too. He needs healing.”
Little Divine Blade continues his unwholesomely pleasant grin.
"You require aid? In that case I shall waste no more time with formalities and we shall take you to the grandmaster immediately. Please follow us, if you would."
The two different sized Divine Blades lead you through the main hall, which is filled with internal martial artists from every sect and various smaller schools, although still mostly Kunlun, discussing kung fu. It might be worth your while to come back here later, when you have less pressing business, and talk martial arts with your peers.
Through yet another set of doors, a hallway, and finally a last set of doors finds you in what you can only describe as a throne room.
Eternal Void Wei Ji, the grandmaster of the Wudang Sect, has been meditating for decades in a small modest living space with no furnature. Sun Wuji, the Two Swords Saint, by contrast sits in a throne fit for an emperor, in a receiving room designed to give an impression of opulence and power. All of the sects have well designed, lavish headquarters but with the Kunlun they almost attack you with their aggressive display of wealth.
There are a few high ranking Kunlun fighters speaking with Sun Wuji, none you've met in person. "Celestial Condor" Bai Feng, "Flashing Light Steel", and Jiang Jin "The Golden Lion" you all recognize by reputation.
Little Divine Blade approaches Sun Wuji and whispers in his ear. The grandmaster nods to the other martial artists, who bow and take their leave. You are left in the grand throne room with just your sworn siblings, Ming Yue, the emperor, Sun Wuji and the two Divine Blades.
"I am told that there are heroes of the Wulin in need of healing," says Sun Wuji, clearly enjoying himself "That is all I need to know; how could the Kunlun count ourselves a prominent sect within the Wulin if we turned away the Demon-Slayer Tigers when they came in beg of aid? However, that raises an interesting question..."
You can see where this is going...
"Across the Empire of Heaven the healers of Mount Wudang are well renowned, perhaps, although I am shamed to admit it, more so than those of Mount Kunlun. At yet here you are, the Demon-Slaying Tigers, a reputable and chivalrous brotherhood with half of your membership in the Wudang sect... and yet when you are injured by the strange magicks of a demon you have come to Mount Kunlun to seek healing. Could it be that even the heroes of the Wudang sect respect the wisdom of the healers of Mount Kunlun over those of Mount Wudang?
Sun Wuji seems determined to not make this easy on you. You might have to take a loss of face here. If you admit that Mount Kunlun has better healers (highly dubious) that'll be a small, toe stubbing loss of face for your Shifus and your sect as well (at least as far as the two Wudang are concerned).
"Oh, great Grandmaster, how wise you are to note our supposed conundrum. However, it has always been my personal belief that, although, as you say, Mount Wudang may be more renowned in terms of healing, it is not, in fact, the only source of knowledge. In order for one to be a true warrior, both on and off the field of combat, one must be knowledgable in all forms of philosophies, whether one is considered better than another, or not. Only then can one find true enlightenment."
"Oh, great Grandmaster, how wise you are to note our supposed conundrum. However, it has always been my personal belief that, although, as you say, Mount Wudang may be more renowned in terms of healing, it is not, in fact, the only source of knowledge. In order for one to be a true warrior, both on and off the field of combat, one must be knowledgable in all forms of philosophies, whether one is considered better than another, or not. Only then can one find true enlightenment."
"I see," says Sun Wuji "Your companions went to Mount Wudang for their training, but when it is their own lives in the balance they come to Mount Kunlun because they seek the enlightenment of variety."
Flying Sword understood what Sun Wuji expected but would not kowtow for the sake of the man's ego... for there is none in true enlightenment... but he was versed enough to not voice his disappointment. Instead he stepped forward and offered the most formal salute that he knew.
'Sukung Sun Wuji, it is true that had we been able to travel to Mount Wudang then we would have. For it is home. As Zhang Yong said, a warrior should be knowledgeable in many philosophies but a warrior should also be prudent. Our need was great and Mount Kunlun was the closest solace we knew of where healers of skill resided. The reputation of the Kunlun is well known and is beyond honorable. How great will it grow when the Demon Slaying Tigers spread word of the generosity of your house, your hospitality to Wulin brothers and sisters and speak witness to your healing skills.'
The last was spoken as a statement of fact and not the question it implied.
Ji watches the verbal...dueling between Sun Wujin’s and her sworn brothers with a patient smile. How will the grandmaster respond to Flying Sword’s words. Her mind races trying to think of a decent metaphor. Seeds—grass—cow droppings—herds—crossing rivers—rivers in the forest—different trees make a forest...enlightenment of variety, indeed.
'Sukung Sun Wuji, it is true that had we been able to travel to Mount Wudang then we would have. For it is home. As Zhang Yong said, a warrior should be knowledgeable in many philosophies but a warrior should also be prudent. Our need was great and Mount Kunlun was the closest solace we knew of where healers of skill resided. The reputation of the Kunlun is well known and is beyond honorable. How great will it grow when the Demon Slaying Tigers spread word of the generosity of your house, your hospitality to Wulin brothers and sisters and speak witness to your healing skills.'
"That is a conundrum then. As your host, it is my duty to offer my guests only the finest things. If our healers do not live up to the high standards you have come to expect from Mount Wudang then we could never expect you to lower yourselves to accepting our help. Have rooms prepared for our guests,"
That last sentence Sun Wuji says to a young man who has apparently been behind you for some time. He has the appearance of a humble servant but, given the way he was able to sneak up on a group of kung fu masters like this, is more than meets the eye.
"I will sent a messenger first thing in the morning to Mount Wudang requesting they dispatch their most skilled healer and his entourage to come here immediately and tend to you in the manner to which you are accustomed. As your honorable host I could offer nothing less."
Sun Wuji knows as well as you do that the masters of Mount Wudang are too busy fighting over the virtually vacant post of the grandmaster, and none of them would leave the mountain (and risk their political base) on the whim of their rival sect.
Wu-Yao nearly sighs out loud in frustration at Sun Wuji's latest "proposal". The stubborn lout won't give in without a loss of face for the Tigers… perhaps I can sacrifice a bit of mine own honor for the sake of the groups…
"It is no secret that I am of the Snake Village… another place we might have gone for this healing. I for one, and willing to accept; the wisdom of our healers doesn't compare to that of Mount Kunlun's. As our host, I humbly request the aid of your own healers. Please don't busy your messengers or trouble those at Mount Wudang…" And he bows, just deeply enough to show the proper amount of respect and submission. No more, no less.
Wu-Yao's sacrificial humility has taken the sport out of Sun Wuji's game, and he looks disappointed.
"Let it not be said that the healers of Mount Kunlun left heroes of the wulin to languish without aid. If you require healing then I shall make sure you are seen to. This, of course, will take time. You may stay here in the Grand Celestial Pagoda for as long as you require. After all, preparations are already underway."
As silently as he appeared, the young servant has disappeared, apparently to prepare rooms for you all.
"Please feel free to wander the grounds. For now, I must return to the urgent business of our sect."
Not taking no for an answer, Big and Little Divine Blade lead you out of the throne room. The silent servant boy has already selected guest rooms for you, and you are led there. The room are very extravagant, and all six have a single communal sitting room.
This is where you now sit, ready to discuss the situation at hand. The two different sized blades have left.
Pacing with his hands behind his back, Flying Sword sought to calm himself. He finally stopped close to his friends.
'Wu-Yao, you humble me. I beg everyone's forgiveness. I thought I had mastered the brashness of my youth but Sun Wuji's arrogance...' A shake of his head inerupted his train of thought... 'Ah, I must remember to dispense with ego before it is my downfall and I pray I dont let it interfere with needed aid again.'
The swordsman became quiet as he caressed his prayer beads.
”Something we all need to remember Flying Sword,” Ji says. Walking around, she examines the furnishings and artwork of the sitting area.
”Impressive. Very impressive...I don’t think we should discuss our recent discovery,“ she enters the first form of the transitional stance, holding it for a moment, then continuing her perusal of the artwork.
Shoulders relaxing at Chu's words of encouragement, Flying Sword bowed his head slightly with eyes closed in appreciation.
I agree...plus the full extent of our recent discoveries should be kept to ourselves as well. He nodded towards the Emperor and continued speaking this time to Ming Yue. Does the Society have a contingency for just such a time as this? Or do we know the Kunlun's stance in regards to our...companion?
"I admit, this is a situation we had not anticipated," says Ming Yue "I would not trust the Kunlun for a moment. They would turn us over to the Weili if they thought it would improve their station."
I agree with that as well. Easy enough that he is just a wealthy merchant that had the unfortunate circumstnace of crossing paths with a vile demon. He just needs a name and a story from before that.
Flying Sword was a little disappointed that the Star Lotus Society didnt have plans set in case the inconceivable happened. The irony of these thoughts quited him for a while.
"We'll have to maintain a watch over our admittedly spacious accommodations, in case they are spying on us. It is quite possible, as you said, that they will attempt to use any advantage." With that, Yong begins walking around the central chamber, then his own room, for anything that could be suspicious.
Perception, Central Chamber: 1d20 + 22 ⇒ (10) + 22 = 32
As soon as he begins to inspect the room, Zhang Yong gets the sense that there is someone behind the wall. Someone very skilled at stealth, Zhang Yong would never have noticed him if Yong hadn't been looking for him.
Zhang Yong estimates he could easily punch through the wall and seize whoever it is, if he can do it fast enough to catch him. He moves nonchalantly towards the wall.
Ji approaches the Emperor and Ming-Yue as Zhang Yong begins his inspection. ”Ming-Yue is your shifu,” Ji whispers with a smirk, clearly enjoying the reversal of positions between the two. ”It’s conceivable that Ming-Yue and I were on our separate ways to a scheduled duel when the demon ambushed you and then us. Do you think you could feign animosity towards me, Ming-Yue?”
"Do you think you could feign animosity towards me, Ming-Yue?”
"I'll do my best," she deadpans.