Jade Reclamation

Game Master Helix Missionary

Rei
Female human investigator (cipher) 3/slayer 3/gestalt 3 (Pathfinder RPG Advanced Class Guide 30, 53, Pathfinder RPG Ultimate Intrigue 32)
CG Medium humanoid (human)
Init +4; Senses Perception +6
Aura nondetection (DC 14)
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Defense
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AC 20, touch 15, flat-footed 16 (+5 armor, +1 deflection, +4 Dex)
hp 36 (3d10+6)
Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +4
Defensive Abilities evasion, inattention blindness (1 targets max, 30 feet)
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Offense
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Speed 30 ft.
Melee +1 naginata +8 (1d8+7/×4)
Space 5 ft.; Reach 5 ft. (10 ft. with +1 naginata)
Special Attacks sneak attack +2d6, studied target +1 (1st, move action)
Investigator Spell-Like Abilities (CL 3rd; concentration +7)
Constant—nondetection
Investigator (Cipher) Extracts Prepared (CL 3rd; concentration +7)
1st—disguise self, fabricate disguise[UI], heightened awareness[ACG], shield
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Statistics
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Str 10, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 18, Wis 10, Cha 12
Base Atk +3; CMB +7 (+9 dirty trick, +9 disarm, +9 reposition, +9 steal, +9 trip); CMD 18 (20 vs. dirty trick, 20 vs. disarm, 20 vs. reposition, 20 vs. steal, 20 vs. trip)
Feats - Custom Feat -, Accomplished Sneak Attacker, Agile Maneuvers, Combat Expertise, Deadly Aim, Deft Maneuvers, Enforcer[APG], Power Attack, Skill Focus (Disguise)
Traits clever wordplay, cunning liar (any city), - custom trait -
Skills Artistry (choreography) +10, Bluff +10, Craft (alchemy) +10 (+13 to create alchemical items), Diplomacy +11, Disguise +10, Intimidate +7, Knowledge (arcana) +10, Knowledge (history) +10, Knowledge (local) +11, Knowledge (nature) +10, Knowledge (nobility) +10, Knowledge (planes) +10, Knowledge (religion) +10, Perception +6, Sense Motive +6, Stealth +9
Languages Common, Elven, Minkaian, Tien, Undercommon
SQ alchemy (alchemy crafting +3), combat style (manacing[UI]), finesse weapon attack attribute, inspiration (5/day), keen recollection, slayer talent (ranger combat style[ACG]), track +1, unassuming
Other Gear mwk chain shirt, mwk naginata[UC], alchemy crafting kit[APG], backpack, bedroll, belt pouch, flint and steel, ink, inkpen, investigator starting formula book, mess kit[UE], soap, trail rations (5), waterskin, 750 gp, 9 sp
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Special Abilities
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Agile Maneuvers Use DEX instead of STR for CMB
Alchemy +3 (Su) +3 to Craft (Alchemy) to create alchemical items, can Id potions by touch.
Combat Expertise +/-1 Bonus to AC in exchange for an equal penalty to attack.
Deadly Aim -1/+2 Trade a penalty to ranged attacks for a bonus to ranged damage.
Deft Maneuvers You don't provoke attacks of opportunity when tripping.
Enforcer If you deal nonlethal damage with a melee weapon, make a free Intimidate check to demoralize.
Evasion (Ex) If succeed on Reflex save for half dam, take none instead.
Finesse Weapon Attack Attribute Finesse weapons use Dexterity on attack rolls.
Inattention Blindness (1 targets max, 30 feet, DC 17) (Su) Nearby creatures ignore your presence unless they succeed at a Perception check.
Inspiration (+1d6, 5/day) (Ex) Use 1 point, +1d6 to trained skill or ability check. Use 2 points, to add to attack or save.
Keen Recollection At 3rd level, an investigator can attempt all Knowledge skill checks untrained.
Power Attack -1/+2 You can subtract from your attack roll to add to your damage.
Sneak Attack +2d6 Attacks deal extra dam if flank foe or if foe is flat-footed.
Studied Target +1 (move action, 1 at a time) (Ex) Study foe as a Move action, gain +1 to att/dam & some skills vs. them.
Track +1 Add the listed bonus to Survival checks made to track.
Unassuming (Ex) Use inspiration on Disguise, Escape Artist, Knowledge (local), Sleight of Hand, and Stealth check without expending use.

I noted that the ancestral weapon for the Higashiyamas is the longbow. This meant I had to compromise a bit: their profile appealed to me most, but I do not want archery to be my primary fighting method: It's too static for me, especially in a PbP setting where describing combat actions is more important. I briefly considered Amatatsu as an alternative, but their 'explorer' theme didn't seem to fit at all. I settled on Higashiyama and reflected their emphasis on longbow in Atsuii's training.
It occurs to me that there's another reason why I felt an heirloom wakizashi more fitting than an heirloom bow. I have the notion, right or wrong, that a bow isn't as durable as a blade and won't last for many generations.
The final point which clinched it for me was the reference to worship of Shizuru for the Higashiyama family. She has swordplay in her portfolio, so it didn't feel like a stretch to introduce an heirloom daisho set.

There is one small point related to the wakizashi in the journal that I wanted to clarify: Nobu intuits that the hand guard isn't original. I assumed it would contain iconography that strongly ties it to the Higashiyama family. For the sake of secrecy it had to be removed, because his forebear couldn't bring himself to ditch the swords entirely. It also seemed like another plot hook and possible milestone to restore the daisho to their original glory.

Faith - I didn't write anything about Nobuyuki's religious views. As a scion of Higashiyama, this will become relevant. Shizuru would have been the household deity for the Kaijitsus, I assume. Naturally, that means that young Nobu would reject her, along with the rest of the Tian Xia pantheon. However, if I have the timeline correct he would have been a young child during the years that the Sandpoint cathedral was being rebuilt, which would have been quite an attraction for a young boy. (He was too young at the time of the late unpleasantness to have recollections of that.) Seeing the cathedral rebuilt would lead to two things: First an interest in architecture. See below under 'Occupation' for more info. Second, he might have spent the occasional afternoon in the cathedral talking to father Zantus during the later years, when he went through the struggle with the Kaijitsus. He would have been drawn to Sarenrae, a partial mirror for Shizuru. Father Zantus might even have brought it forth himself, hoping that Sarenrae's focus on redemption would somehow aid in sealing the rift in his family. Those talks would also be part of the inspiration for why he values honesty so much. From a later age, he would start accepting the Tian Xia pantheon as part of his later training on Minkai culture. What's amusing to me is that he would still (subconsciously) associate some of Sarenrae's tenets like honestly and healing with Shizuru. I seeded that in my background at certain points, see for example the Principled faith trait and using a figurine of Shizuru as a Conjuration Implement for his healing magic.

Occupation - Reflecting on Nobu's background, I noticed that he does not have an occupation. While this would not seem all that strange to Lonjiku and Atsuii as the last scion of an imperial family, they still have to keep up appearances. Besides, they couldn't know how long they would have to stay in hiding. I don't see Nobu working in an inn. What does seem natural is an apprenticeship with a local carpenter. It's honest work, has an artistic element, and appeals to his interest in seeing the Sandpoint cathedral rebuilt. Also, the points in Craft (woodworking) could be used in the Caravan rules, which I like. Coupled with knowledge engineering, it could also tie in eventually to the scholarly/inventive nature of the Higashiyamas.

Ameiko - Ameiko's role has been somewhat ambiguous in my background, and I would like your input on that matter. I've written my background in the assumption that she's not 'in' on the plot. I see her as only a few years older than Nobu, and she wouldn't have any recollection of the short time when he was just born and his parents were still alive. This allows her to be a 'true' friend for Nobu during his rebellious years, without any deception on her part. It also seems prudent from the perspective of Lonjiku and Atsuii not to trust such an important secret to their young daughter. This would mean that Ameiko might be just as surprised as Nobu is when the secret finally comes out. Would that work for you based on the timeline and how you envision her? If not, we’d have to tweak things a bit. Apparently she was in the know all along (or filled in at some point during his childhood), which means that she’s a great liar to get this past Nobu. When finding out that she knew, he’d be a little hurt and very impressed. By this time, his ties are strong enough that it won’t cause problems, either way.

With the above, my submitted character seems mostly complete. In closing, there's two points I'd like to add.
- First is theme and goals. I touched on this in my opening post, but a summarized statement seems in order. I'd like a classical adventure with plenty of opportunities for intrigue, exploration, plot twists and action. I'm not too fond of dark and gritty campaigns. My #1 drive for any game (and this one in particular) is character growth and change. I believe I've planted enough hooks in the character background to make this work. Seeing my character develop is the most fulfilling part of an RPG and I believes this campaign would be perfect for that.
- Second, I thought I would discuss my posting style, and the previous campaigns I've played on these forums. Many of them are PFS games. The depth and nature of the roleplay can differ quite a bit, a consequence of gaming with strangers and random party compositions. I've done a few longer campaigns and believe that any of them would be a good reflection of my posting style and consistency. I'm not a native English speaker, but am confident that I have a pretty good handle on it. I have an unfortunate tendency to leave some typos in my posts on occasion, even after I double-check them... I try to get better on that. If I had to pick one campaign for you to sample my in-character posts, I would suggest you check the 'Price of immortality' arc that I played on these forums a few years back. I was fortunate enough to have a great group and an amazing GM. Link to the gameplay thread here. My character for that campaign was Calden Tigg.

I can definitely adjust that scene to place more of an emphasis on Lonjiku's insistence that he not use his family name in public. I included it because it just didn't feel right to me that he would be given his family's ancestral weapon without being given his family's name. I though about having Lonjiku say it was his, but I felt that since the Kaijitsus hadn't tried to pretend he was their son, it wouldn't make sense that he'd give his family's weapon to Haruhiro.

My idea for Lonjiku and Atsuii sending him off with Ameiko and Shalelu was that they worried Chopper might be assassins sent by the Five Storms looking for him, and that by getting him out of Sandpoint, they would keep him safe. Their fears ended up being unfounded, but they would still take a "better safe than sorry" route.

I'll try to make that backstory tweak by the time you close recruitment.

A passing glance at the profile looks fine, and I'm happy to have you swap Slashing Grace for something more interesting. (If you do want Dexterity to damage, I'm fine with the Deadly Agility 3rd-party feat.) As for Lethal Grace, I'd be inclined to let it give you a similar-themed combat feat, probably Deft Maneuvers or something along those lines. Feel free to pitch a replacement idea if you have one in mind.

No worries on the heirloom weapon versus clan thing, mostly it was something I wanted to point out. I do appreciate the hook for finding the original guard and putting the set together again, and it does make sense that the family might have such an heirloom pair from a clan swordsman devoted to Shizuru.

As far as the points on faith and occupation go, I definitely agree with your ideas. The draw to faith based on curiosity with the cathedral is a neat touch, and linking Sarenrae to Shizuru is also a nice bit of personality. The occupation sounds fine as well--the Kaijitsus are certainly interested in keeping you somewhat humble and hardworking, as those are two traits that make for a wise and just ruler.

As for Ameiko, I'd planned that she would be in on things, at least once she reached the age where she'd be entrusted with the secret and begin her own training to be a faithful and loyal retainer and protector. With the timeline in mind, and assuming she's only a few years older, she'd probably have found out about things roughly the same time, perhaps a bit before, you started having your issues with the family. She is still your friend first and foremost, though, and would certainly remain a close ally and confidant, even if she's being somewhat deceptive in the process.

Thanks for the touch back to goals and hopes. I agree that your character is complete, and thank you for the submission!

Haruhiro Kaijitsu/Sugimatu
Male human (Tian-Min) bard 3//samurai (warrior poet) 3//gestalt 3
LN Medium humanoid (human)
Init +7; Senses Perception +7
Favored Class: Bard
FCB: +3 Skill Points
DEFENSE
AC 19, touch 19, flat-footed 12 (+1 armor, +3 Cha, +1 deflection, +3 Dex, +1 dodge); +3 vs AoO
HP 36 (3d10+6)
Fort +4, Ref +6, Will +4;
Special Defenses countersong, well-versed
OFFENSE
Speed 40 ft.
Melee masterwork naginata +7 (1d8+1/x4)
Melee cold iron light mace +6 (1d6+1)
Melee alchemical silver dagger +6 (1d4/19-20)
Ranged composite longbow (Str+1) +6 (1d8+1/x3)
Melee alchemical silver dagger +6 (1d4/19-20)
Special Attacks bardic performance (11 rounds/day, distraction, fascinate (DC 13), inspire courage +1), skirmisher’s challenge 1/day
Spells Known (CL 1st; Concentration +4)
1st-level (4/day) - anticipate peril, grease (DC 14), remove fear, saving finale
0-level - daze, detect magic, light, mage hand, mending, spark
STATISTICS
Str 13, Dex 17, Con 12, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 16
Base Atk +3; CMB +6; CMD 17
Traits Artisan (Craft (calligraphy)), Ichimeiyo Champion, Sugimatu Scion
Feats Dodge, (Improved Feint/Deft Maneuvers), Improved Initiative, Prodigy (Perform (dance, oratory)), Toughness
Skills Acrobatics +9 (VP), Climb +7, Craft (calligraphy)* +9, Diplomacy +10, Fly +9 (VP), Knowledge (arcana) +6, Knowledge (dungeoneering) +6, Knowledge (engineering) +6, Knowledge (geography) +6, Knowledge (history)* +6, Knowledge (local) +7, Knowledge (nature) +6, Knowledge (nobility)* +6, Knowledge (planes) +6, Knowledge (religion) +6, Linguistics +7, Perception +7, Perform (dance)* +9, Perform (oratory)* +9, Perform (wind)* +7, Sense Motive +7, Spellcraft +7, Stealth +7, Survival +6, Swim +5
*- denotes background skill
VP- denotes versatile performance
Languages Common, Elven, Minkaian, Sylvan, Tien, Varisian
SQ bardic knowledge, cantrips, dancer’s grace, flourish (Exodus of Jinin, Petals on the Wind), graceful warrior, order of the warrior, order ability (Honor In All Things 1/day), versatile performance (Dance)
ABP armor attunement (clothes) +1, deflection +1, resistance +1, weapon attunement (naginata) +1
Combat Gear 2 potions of cure light wounds Gear sleeves of many garments, masterwork bard's kit (masterwork backpack, bedroll, belt pouch, darkwood shakuhachi, flint and steel, ink, inkpen, iron pot, journal, mess kit, mirror, rope, soap, torches (10), trail rations (5 days), waterskin), spell component pouch, climber's kit, masterwork calligraphy tools, 2 potions of cure light wounds, 20 sticks incense, shaving kit, climber's kit, 13 gp

Haruhiro doesn’t know the particulars of his birth. His adoptive parents, Lonjiku and Atsuii Kaijitsu, never made any pretense about hiding the fact that they were not his birth parents. In fact, once they felt he was old enough, they sat him down and told him they were not his birth parents, but rather family friends who had agreed to take him in and raise him prior to their deaths. They told him that they had died of sickness in a harsh winter, and it had been fortunate that he hasn’t caught it, as it surely would have claimed him much more quickly than it did them. Having never known them, Haruhiro never felt particularly sad about the loss. After all, you can’t miss what you’ve never known.

All things considered, the Kaijitsus were good parents. They were a very formal family, despite running an inn frequented by adventurers, and very regimented. Once he was old enough to help out, Haruhiro would be up at dawn to clean the stables. Then, after breakfast, Atsuii would give him lessons in reading, writing, arithmetic, or Minkaian culture. He learned calligraphy, the importance of the tea ceremony, traditional Minkaian dances - all sorts of things related to the family’s past. Then came lunchtime, and the afternoon was spent doing more chores around the inn. Haruhiro did well at his lessons, but he never understood why it was that Lonjiku and Atsuii were so insistent on teaching him about Minkai. After all, they lived in Varisia, and Minkai was on the other side of the world. Asking the question only received the answer, ”It is important to learn where you came from, Haruhiro. After all, you cannot know when you may have cause to journey there.” As he grew closer to his teen years, it did not escape his notice that, for all their insistence on his learning Minkaian culture, they were never quite so insistent with their daughter, Ameiko.

Ameiko Kaijitsu was three years older than Haruhiro, but she was always willing to spend time with Haruhiro, to help him with his lessons. Indeed, despite the fact they weren’t related, she behaved in all ways as his older sister, giving him advice when he needed it, helping him with his studies when he struggled, and a shoulder to cry on when he needed it. Even as she grew older and more involved in running the inn, she always made time to be there for him. There were times when Haruhiro honestly thought that if she hadn’t been there, he never would have made it through childhood. Though Ameiko would sometimes help him with his, she had her own lessons with Atsuii and Lonjiku in the afternoon, while he did chores around the inn.

Upon his twelfth birthday, after breakfast, instead of his normal lessons, Lonjiku took him outside and handed him a wooden training sword. Lonjiku said, ”You are now twelve years old, and it is time you began to learn the way of the samurai, an ancient warrior tradition in Minkai.” So it began that every morning after breakfast, he would spend learning the naginata, sword, bow, spear, and other weapons with Lonjiku, as well as learning the Way of the Warrior - to protect the life and lands of those he gave his word to, to be truthful and courageous, to be respectful of his elders and masters, and loyal to his friends and his liege, should he ever choose to swear fealty to one. Lonjiku taught him to always act with grace, dignity, and honor. When he gave his word to someone, he must do all he could to uphold his word. Failure to do so not only cost Haruhiro honor, but it could dishonor the family name. Honor was quite important to Lonjiku, and since Haruhiro carried the family name, he must not do anything to bring dishonor upon it. Lonjiku placed particular emphasis on the naginata, for its longer reach fit well with the unarmored style of combat he taught, one that flowed similar to dancing.

Learning the way of the samurai in the mornings did not replace his lessons with Atsuii, merely moved them to the afternoon. Those lessons themselves changed, from Minkaian culture to history and civics. Atsuii began teaching him public speaking, and the art of negotiation. Haruhiro was sure that Ameiko wasn’t being taught these same lessons. So why was he? Cautiously, he asked Atsuii why he was learning these lessons, and she merely said that it had been his parents’ wish that he receive a broad education. No matter how many times he asked, he always received this same answer. It frustrated him, for he was sure there must be more to it. Ameiko found his insistence that there was another reason funny, though, and told him that if he asked the wind, he would receive his answer for the greater reason. Haruhiro wasn’t foolish, but he understood what she was saying - sometimes, things are the way they are, and there’s never another reason. He never stopped wondering, though.

When Haruhiro was 16, a series of murders began occurring in Sandpoint. After the fourth one, Ameiko came to him and asked him if he wanted to go on a long camping trip with her and a friend of hers, Shalelu Andosana, an Elven ranger who patrolled the area around Sandpoint. Haruhiro expressed doubt that Lonjiku and Atsuii would allow him to do so, but they not only allowed it, they encouraged him to do so. Surprised, but accepting the opportunity, Haruhiro packed some things, including a bow Lonjiku had given him for the trip, and his shakuhachi, a traditional Minkaian bamboo flute. He then set out into the woods.

He, Ameiko, and Shalelu spent a month in the hinterlands around Sandpoint. Shalelu taught him the Elven language, and she showed him how to properly use the bow Lonjiku had given him. He also learned how to hunt and forage for food in the wilderness, and how to keep his bearings. The most exciting part of the trip was when a group of four goblins, following the smell from their cookfire, burst into the camp, chanting and singing their songs. Haruhiro’s bow lay unstrung beside him, but he drew his dagger and, using the techniques Lonjiku taught him, was able to hold his own enough to slay the goblin. Shalelu had pincushioned two of them, and Ameiko slew the last. Shalelu said she’d spent quite a bit of time fighting against goblins, and had gotten very good at fighting them. Once the month ended, Ameiko and Haruhiro returned to Sandpoint to find that the mysterious Chopper had been Jervis Stoot, a local man who carved birds into buildings. Lonjiku and Atsuii said it was a shame it had happened, that something must have touched the old man in the head, but Haruhiro caught hints of relief in their eyes. That didn’t make sense, though - why would they be relieved the killer turned out to be Jervis Stoot? Dismissing it as a trick of the light, Haruhiro settled back into life in the inn. After 6 more years of training and lessons, Lonjiku told him the time had come for him to choose his own path. To that end, Lonjiku presented him with a beautifully crafted naginata. Lonjiku told him that it was his father’s, and that it was now his to carry. He must always remember to avoid bringing dishonor upon his family, though. He told Haruhiro that hew would reveal his true family name, but that he must vow on his honor to never use his true family name in public, and that he should continue using the Kaijitsu name. Conflicted, Haruhiro vowed to do so. He wanted to be known by his family name, but he could not break such an oath and bring dishonor upon himself and his adoptive family. Lonjiku accepted the vow, and told him the name was Sugimatu. Though he was unsure of why, the name filled Haruhiro with pride, and he accepted the Sugimatu naginata as his birthright. The other part of his birthright, the name, he kept close to his heart, a secret that others would not know.

Initially, Haruhiro was unsure what to do with himself, now that his lessons were over, but he quickly found the solution. Sandru Vhiski, who ran a merchant caravan out of Sandpoint, offered him a job protecting the caravan’s goods while they traveled. Seeing an opportunity to leave Sandpoint and learn more of the world, he agreed. So it was that he began regularly escorting Sandru’s caravans, helping to protect them from goblins and brigands, and even the occasional ogre. During that time, he came to view Sandru as, if not a friend, a close acquaintance, particularly due to their shared history, as both lost their parents and were raised by others. Sandru brought his adoptive mother, Koya Mvashti along as well, and Haruhiro has grown to respect the older woman for her sound, worldly advice.

Now 25, Haruhiro has returned from another journey with Sandru Vhiski. Sandru has been grumbling about his brother, Jubrayl Vhiski, and is thinking of taking on a longer journey. Haruhiro knows he’ll accompany them, but he wants to spend as much time with his adoptive family as he can first, especially Ameiko. Of late, though, something’s been bothering him. He’s kept using the Kaijitsu family name, as he promised Lonjiku he would, but as he’s told Sandru stories of his childhood growing up, he’s come to realize there are some things he’d noticed when he was younger that didn’t quite make sense. Explanations his adopted parents gave, or a whispered conversation ended when they noticed he was near. He feels there’s more to the story of his birth parents than their death of some disease. That there is some dire secret in his family that the Kaijitsus are hiding - most likely to protect him. Haruhiro has the suspicion that whatever it is, it involves some sort of dishonor. That is the only reason he can think of that they would keep it secret. He hopes not. Having seen more of the world, and the behavior of other caravan guards, Haruhiro understands better than ever the importance of honor.

====Lessons with Atsuii====

”Elongate your spine so you stand straight. Shoulders back. Chin up, but not so high you look down your nose. Now, remember, project your voice, and enunciate,” Atsuii said, as she stepped back from where Haruhiro stood. Taking a breath, Haruhiro began reciting the poem Atsuii had him memorize for this lesson. It was a longer poem, and this was his third attempt at reciting it today. He finished reciting the poem, then looked to his adoptive mother. She smiled warmly and clapped, saying, ”Well done! Perhaps soon you will be giving speeches to the crowds at the Swallowtail Festival.”

Haruhiro exhaled in relief. ”Thank you, mother, but I somehow doubt that I’ll be called upon for that duty any time soon.”

”Be that as it may, you will still be capable of doing so, regardless of whether or not you wish to. Now, onto the next lesson. We shall continue your lessons on the finances of governments. Today I will teach you about taxes - collecting them, and administering them.”

Haruhiro glanced at the sun streaming in the window - it was a beautiful spring day, and said, ”Mother...is it really important that I learn how to administer taxes? It hardly seems like I would ever need that knowledge, unless I’m secretly the king of all Varisia. Could we instead, maybe, go outside and learn about birds or maybe trees instead?” As he asked his mother about changing the lesson, he thought he saw something flicker across her face at his joke of ‘secretly king of all Varisia’. He wasn’t quite sure what, or if it was even anything more than a shadow, but it seemed there was something.

Following his gaze, his mother smiled warmly, and said, ”Eager to go outside, are we? Haruhiro, you are not secretly the king of all Varisia, but it is important that you learn how to administer taxes. Perhaps one day you will find yourself Mayor of Sandpoint, or another village. Perhaps you will be Lord-Mayor of Magnimar. Your destiny lies before you, and no one can say where that path may take you. No matter where that path leads you, Lonjiku and I have decided to make sure that you are prepared to walk that path.” Walking over to him, she gently guided him to the low table in their family quarters of the Rusty Dragon, where he knelt before a book, parchment, and quill. ”Now, a question from our lessons yesterday. Is it better to collect the same amount of taxes from everyone every year, or is it better to collect a set percentage of income every year?”

”A percentage of income, for that accounts for both good years and bad years. You cannot take as much from a farmer in a bad year as you can in a good year, else the farmer may starve or be forced to sell his land, and next year you will get nothing,” Haruhiro answered.

”Very good. Now, let us speak of tax collectors, and how to ensure the taxes they collect do not stick to their fingers.”

Haruhiro listened as his adoptive mother spoke, for at the end of the day, unless he wanted extra chores, he still had to do as she asked.

====Lessons with Lonjiku====

The practice swords came together with a loud clack, as he and Lonjiku danced across the stableyard. Over the three years since he had first begun his samurai training, he had never lasted this long in the warmup spar against Lonjiku. Just when he was getting confident, Lonjiku came in for a strike, and with a twist of the wrist completely changed the angle, deftly avoiding Haruhiro’s block and smacking his practice sword into the boy’s ribs. Lonjiku flowed back into a ready stance and said, ”You did well, but you must learn not to be so easily fooled. Observe.” Lonjiku began flowing through the strike he had used to win the spar, this time without the wrist twist. He then did it again, and this time twisted his wrists. ”Did you see the difference?”

Haruhiro nodded. ”Yes, you twisted your wrist on the second strike, changing the angle and eluding my block.”

Lonjiku shook his head. ”That is not the true difference. You focus too much on the blade, and the hands that wield it. A true warrior does not wield his weapon as a thing - it is a part of his body, of himself. A sword is an extension of his arm, an arrow the gaze of his eye. A strike like the one I used to fool you is not simply a turn of the wrists. It begins with how you place your feet, the angle at which your body moves into the strike. It is where you look. It should be effortless, like rain falling from the sky, or water flowing down the river to the sea. You must understand these principles - else in a real battle, death could come for you.” Something in Lonjiku’s eyes said he was truly worried about that - unusual, since Sandpoint proper’s greatest danger was goblins, and they rarely came in large enough numbers to be a true threat.

Haruhiro shook his head. ”Father, how am I supposed to keep my eye on my opponent’s weapon, hands, feet, torso, and eyes all at the same time?”

”Practice and hard work. Now. You did well learning the spear, and you show progress with the sword. It is time to put those principles together.” Lonjiku turned and, from the shed where he kept the training weapons, he pulled out a weapon consisting of a long wooden shaft with a two foot-long sword blade on the end of it. ”This is called a naginata. It is a traditional weapon of our homeland, Minkai. It provides greater reach than a katana, and is particularly effective against mounted foes.” Lonjiku pulled out a wooden version - a pole topped with a two-foot long practice blade - and handed it to Haruhiro. ”Now, hold your naginata like so, placing your feet in this stance. The naginata is not designed to be thrust at your opponent, or braced against a charge, as a spear is. You instead strike, as with a sword. Like so.” Lonjiku struck, a simple overhand chop. ”Now, you try.”

Haruhiro swung the naginata, knowing what Lonjiku would say next. ”Good. Again. The strike must come as naturally to you as breathing. Good. Again.” Lonjiku taught through repetition, making Haruhiro do the same thing again and again until he could do it without though. He rarely stopped for breaks either, seemingly tireless, even when Haruhiro was panting and sweating. Lonjiku was a strict taskmaster, too, only answering questions relevant to the lesson, and either ignoring others or reprimanding Haruhiro for letting his mind wander. Still, Haruhiro wanted to learn this, because maybe he could be a great hero one day if he did. Letting his mind wander as he practiced the naginata, he let himself be entertained by thoughts of him saving Sandpoint from some great threat, and people cheering him as he held his arms up in triumph…

====Camping with Ameiko====

The final note slowly faded as Haruhiro finished the song on his shakuhachi. Ameiko, lounging against a log next to the fire, clapped and said, ”Nicely done, Hiro. That actually sounded like music for once. Keep practicing for a year or two, and maybe I’ll let you join me in performing in the inn. As it is, you’re good enough to impress that tone-deaf buffoon who runs the theater.” Hiro was her nickname for him. She had recently begun playing the bawi in the evenings to entertain the Rusty Dragon’s patrons, when there wasn’t another bard in town to play the space. Cyrdak Drokkus had tried to recruit Ameiko, but whatever he’d said had made her furious in a way he’d never seen. Since then, she’d had nothing but animosity towards him. Haruhiro hoped he never upset her like that.

”Give it another year or two, and I’ll play better than you. Maybe then I’ll let you play with me in the inn,” Haruhiro shot back as he placed the instrument in its case. Ameiko grabbed a piece of tree bark and threw it at him, and for the next couple minutes they were throwing leaves, twigs, and bits of bark at each other - nothing that would actually cause injury, laughing as they did so. Eventually they stopped, the laughter fading, still wearing big smiles.

They had been camping in the Sandpoint Hinterlands for two weeks now - himself, Ameiko, and her friend Shalelu. Shalelu was an Elven Ranger who seemed to have chosen to protect and watch over Sandpoint. Somehow, she and Ameiko had become good friends, and he had been surprised to find himself invited along on their camping trip - even more surprised that Lonjiku and Atsuii had been comfortable with his doing so. Shalelu was off scouting nearby - she said she thought she’d seen some goblin tracks, and wanted to make sure they were safe. The smell of rabbit roasting over the flames permeated the air, and made his belly growl. He seemed to be hungrier than ever lately. Atsuii proclaimed it was because he was just a growing boy, and Lonjiku said a strong appetite was a sign you were working hard. Ameiko said it was because he was fulfilling his secret desire to eat everything in sight.

Looking up at the night sky, with only the fire lit, Haruhiro could see plenty of stars from here. Lifting his head, he said, ”So why did you invite me along on your camping trip?”

Ameiko looked at him, something that resembled concern in her eyes, and opened her mouth, but before she could say anything, they both heard a rustling and murmuring coming from some bushes on the opposite side of the clearing. Ameiko picked up the scabbarded rapier at her side, her hand moving to the hilt as she stood. Haruhiro moved to stand as well, with a glance towards his unstrung bow next to his tent. Suddenly, bursting into the clearing, were four small, greenish-skinned humanoids with large heads, razor sharp teeth, and swords that looked like they were made of literal junk. ”Goblins!” she shouted, as they began singing something in their native tongue.

The only weapon Haruhiro had at hand was his dagger, but he drew it as he slipped into a stance Lonjiku had taught him - the Exodus of Jinin - and prepared for their attack, dagger held in a reverse grip. Ameiko had her rapier drawn and was shifting into an engarde stance as the goblins rushed forward. As they prepared, two arrows flew between them from behind, both burying themselves in the same goblin. Hoping it was Shalelu, Haruhiro began to dance, using the dagger to deflect a goblin thrust, then an upward slash in a counter-stroke that cut its arm. A side-step avoided the goblin’s next attack, and downward strike into the top of the goblin’s head with the dagger dropped it like a stone. Looking about, he saw that a second goblin was downed by a couple of arrows, and Ameiko was cleaning the blade of her rapier while another goblin lay before her. Looking over his shoulder as he wiped the blade of his dagger, he saw Shalelu lowering her bow. ”I guess there were goblins about.”

The Elven woman looked at him and said, ”Yes, but not many. These look like they were part of the Mosswood tribe. We’ll move the bodies out of the way, and keep a close watch tonight while we’re sleeping.” Haruhiro set about doing so with Ameiko and Shalelu. The rest of the evening passed uneventfully, as they ate their rabbit and Shalelu told them about the Mosswood goblins. Once they decided to sleep, Shalelu said, ”I’ll take first watch. Ameiko take second, and Haruhiro, you take third. Keep your eyes and ears open. Other animals may be attracted to the dead goblins. Keep the fire going - that will keep most of them away.”

As Haruhiro and Ameiko moved to their tents, Haruhiro asked again, ”So, why did you invite me along on your camping trip?”

Ameiko smirked and said, ”Because with all the time you spend on lessons, I thought you might have forgotten how to have fun. Get some sleep, Hiro. You’ll need it for your watch.” There was no concern in her face or voice, and no reason for her to be concerned in her reasoning, but he hadn’t imagined it. Why had she been concerned earlier? Puzzled, he went to bed, but the thought was still nagging him when she woke him for his watch.

The character’s creation as a Bard/Samurai (Warrior Poet) stemmed from your description of wanting a well-rounded character, as well as the flavor text of the Warrior Poet archetype. The lessons Atsuii and Lonjiku teach him are designed to give him a broad education on how to rule, with some knowledge on many topics (as represented by the Bard class, specifically bardic knowledge). I see Lonjiku as having been a bodyguard, and Atsuii in an administrator type role as their former positions among his parents’ retainers. I also see Lonjiku and Atsuii as having trained Ameiko to protect him, as well.

Haruhiro has some inklings of his past - he knows the Kaijitsus are his adoptive family, and he knows his true family name, although nothing of significance about it. It’s only lately that he’s begun to truly suspect that there’s more to the story than death by disease.

For tone and theme of the game, I’m mainly thinking of the high adventure and classic samurai theme. I’d like combats to be fairly dynamic and mobile - the Warrior Poet archetype is built around Spring Attack, and I’m considering working Spring-Heeled Style in as well. I think it will make it more interesting and dynamic than a full-attack filled smack fest where two warrior types stand next to each other and whack away, as well as more in keeping with the high-adventure theme. I’m drawing some inspiration from the sword techniques of the Wheel of Time series for the combat parts, as well, and will probably use some of the form names from there in posting to represent his fighting style.

I also see the character as one who would prefer to use diplomacy to convince others of the righteousness of his cause. The warrior-poet archetype isn’t one that lends itself to warlord-type characters, and I don’t see Haruhiro that way, either. I chose Sugimatsu Scion because that sounded like the type of rulers they were, and it would fit how the character was portrayed.

Mechanically, if you choose my submission, there are a couple of things with my class choices that are affected by the feat tax rules. The Graceful Warrior ability of the Warrior Poet archetype grants the Weapon Finesse feat, while also letting me use Weapon Finesse with the katana, naginata, and glaive. The Kitsune’s Mystique flourish of the archetype also grants Improved Feint as a bonus feat, which is rolled into Deft Maneuvers. I haven’t taken that one, but I was considering it for later. These only need to be addressed if you choose my submission - I’m not concerned about it one way or the other.

Thwack, clack, clack-clack!
”<Good. Now, low stance.>”
Tap-clack, thwack!
”<Mind your left hand.>”
Whack, clack-clack, ker-THWACK!

With an unceremonious clatter of wood on stone, the bokken is knocked from Shen’s hands. Lonijinku’s shoulders sagged as he relaxed from his stance. Despite the protective face sheild, Shen could immediately read his mentor’s disappointment. ”<Pick up your sword and being again.>”

”<Yes teacher.>”

Sparring sessions were nothing new, but Lonijinku was progressively becoming more stringent on form and stance. Today in particular, he had decided to reserve the entire day for practice. It was only 9 in the morning, and already he had more than a few bruises.

Whack, click, THWACK!
”<Watch your footwork. Begin again.>”
Clack, whack, THWACK!
”<Left hand is slipping once more. Begin again.>”
Tap, ker-THWACK!
”<Keep your guard up. Begin again.>”
Thump, WHACK!
”<Begin again.>”
THWACK!
”<Again.>”
Ker-WHACK!
”<Again.>”
CRACK!
”<Again.>”

Shen reached for the wooden katana, then stopped, and dropped to his knees.

”<...Shenzuka. Pick up your sword and begin again.>”

The half-orc did not move for a moment, then twitched slightly as a shuddering sob escaped from behind the face mask.

Lonijinku sighed lightly and stepped around his student, kneeling down to his eye level as he removed his own mesh head covering. ”<...why are you weeping?>”

”<...it hurts…>”

”<Pain is a lesson. An education to never make the same mistake twice. Learn from it, and begin ag->”

”NO!”

The old retainer does not outwardly flinch, but his grip upon the wooden weapon tightens for a split-second at his charge’s outburst. ”...Shenzuka, remove your mask.”

With somewhat unnecessary roughness, the teenaged boy tosses his helmet to the floor of the sparring yard. A fair portion of his neck is dyed purple with long bruises, along with one slightly-impacted lash across his cheek. Of course, tears also leak from the corners of his eyes, which are currently pointed towards the floor in despair.

Lonijiku seats himself properly in the ground and cups a hand over the bruised cheek. ”...I forget sometimes that your have not seen what I have seen. Battle...war...bloodshed...these are things that are distant to you, unknown to you.” With a surprisingly tender touch, he wipes back a line of tears. ”But I have seen these things, Shenzuka. I have seen blood upon blades, tragedy, death...and I have found myself unable to do anything. Simply left to watch, as those I cared for were taken from me.

“And I have made it my task that you never know that helplessness. That when the time comes, you do not stand by. You fight. You fight, and you keep those you love safe. You fight, and the darkness that comes for them is beaten back. You fight, even if it hurts.” He slowly withdrew his hand, Shen’s eyes wide and affixed upon him. ”<A true samurai fights for this above all else: to defend that which he loves from that which hates. That which hates will bring pain as its ally, and it is the samurai’s task to stand and fight. No matter how much it hurts, no matter how many times this evil comes, he must fight. So…>” The retainer stood and re-donned his mask. ”<Ready yourself.>”

His crying ceased, Shen takes a deep breath and rises to his feet. He moves to replace the face guard, then pauses. ”<...teacher, i-if you would allow it, may I try something...different?>”

”<...perhaps. What do you have in mind?>”

”<Well, Instructor Atsuii and I were going over some old etiquette rules for duels, and there was this image that, well, it had a warrior like this.>” With sore movements, the half-orc shifts into a one-handed stance, his free left arm tucked into the small of his back. ”<I-I think this might work better in a fight, s-since I’m learning to cast spells with my left side. Would this be acceptable?>”

Lonijinku smiled under the face shield. ”<...perhaps. Let us see if it improves your form.>” He shifted into a ready stance. [b”<Now...begin again.>”[/b]

The task had begun two weeks ago, when, after reading the account of a heroic sorceress, Shen had asked Atsuii a question he believed to be simple: ”Could I use magic?”

It had been an innocent question, without much thought behind it. But it sparked an idea in the woman’s mind. When the time came for finances, she asked Lonijiku if they could spare a bit of gold for something special for Shen’s education. He acquiesced, and after six days of scouring the strange shops that only the brave or the arcane ever perused, she awoke the young half-orc early in the day. ”<Awaken my pupil. We have a special lesson today.>”

She guided him into the study as she did most-every day he had lessons, but instead of the usual tomes and parchments upon the low desk, there instead sat two books. The first was a dull yellow color, weathered and discolored with age and obvious use. The second was a very strange book, more of a bundle of wooden planks than a proper paper binding. It was covered in Minkaian kanji, but not the kind Shen was familiar with.

A soft smile playing on her lips, Atsuii took her usual position opposite the desk as Shen kneels at the books. ”<You asked me if you could use magic. This shall test that. On your right, there is an artifact of Tien, a tome of spellcraft. It details how to perform simple spells, but more importantly how to read the language of magic. The yellow book is a spellbook. By the end of today, we will know if you can use magic.>”

That day was long and grueling. The spellcraft was written in a heavy dialect, and the book of spells was most certainly not made with a beginner in mind. In fact, Shen wondered if it had been intended to be read by any sane person at all. It rambled endlessly, was full of useless tangents about the past owner’s life, and was very poorly organized.

Nonetheless, the moment finally came.

”<Are you ready my pupil?>”

Shen took a steadying breath. ”<...no, but…>”

A gentle hand fell upon his shoulder as Atsuii smiled kindly. ”<Magic is like anything else we have practiced. Tea ceremonies, proper forms of address, navigation, they all use this.>” She tapped his temple to emphasize the statement. ”<Your mind. You are more clever than you think my pupil. And the spirits of magic love the clever ones.>”

She didn’t know what she was talking about. All she knew of magic was what the rather rude mage running the market stall had told her, explaining what the books were and the absolute basics of the arcane.

Still, Shen believed her and smiled. ”<Right, right...I’m ready.>”

She squeezed his arm reassuringly, and stepped back to her position by the stack of simple plates. ”<Point your fingers forward, and...three...two...one…!>”

Atsuii gave a soft toss, throwing the clay dishware into the air. Shen spoke words with no meaning but to himself. His hand thrust forward and…

A bolt of ice-blue energy shot forth and sailed past the plate. The platter smashed to pieces on the ground as the arcane mote flew beyond the confines of the yard. Moments later, the shattering of glass could be heard in the distance, along with a yelp of alarm.

Shen’s face was twisted into surprise. ”<I...I did it! I think, was that right!?>”

Atsuii smiled stiffly. ”Yes, you did wonderfully, however…”

”WHO THREW A SNOWBALL THROUGH MY WINDOW?! HOW DID SOMEONE THROW A SNOWBALL?! IT’S THE MIDDLE OF SUMMER!”

The half-orc youth paled slightly. ”Oh no...ah…”

The old retainer quickly kneeled down to face Shen directly. ”Don’t worry, I will handle things but...I am so proud of you!” She briefly embraces him, then stands back up and hustles towards the door, hoping that the man was not as angry as he sounded.

In the courtyard behind her, Shen sighed. ”<Thank you...mother…>”

The clear night’s sky was filled with countless stars. Beneath it, sitting cross-legged on the roof of the Rusty Dragon Inn, Shenzuka gazes up in wonder, a paintbrush in one hand. The other holds his canvas, which as of yet consists of little more than a navy-blue field populated by a blocky city skyline. The world is quiet, meditative…

...which is rudely interrupted as the hatch to the roof slams open.

Shen jumps slightly and nearly drops the canvas off the edge of the roof, only barely catching it with the tips of his fingers. He sighs and rights himself as he checks the work in progress for damage (finding none). ”Must you open that so violently Ami?”

Ameiko claps the half-orc on the back as she sits next to him. ”You’re the one strong enough to forget that damn thing is nearly rusted shut.” She gives him a good natured smile as she looks at the painting in progress. ”Still feeling this one out?”

Shen returns her grin. ”Yes, still debating on the colors, and how much I want to focus on the city…”

She nods. ”Mm-hm, yeah. You know what might help with that?”

He rolls his eyes as he gingerly sets the art supplies aside. ”What do you need?”

”Who said I needed anything?”

”You when you came up here and starting trying to get my mind off my art.” In truth, he didn’t mind being asked for help. He simply couldn’t understand why Ami insisted on making “a game” of the asking.

She begins to retort, but rolls her eyes dramatically. ”Okay fine. Customer just came in, has way too much luggage for me to handle. I could use a little muscle~!” She playfully jabs his upper arm and waggles her eyebrows.

He chuckles and swats her away. ”Stop that! And I’ll be down in a moment, just let me get ready.”

She taps him on the back affectionately as she clambers back down the hatch. Shen sighs and takes a minute to affix his scarf, covering his tusks and still-growing beard, before following Ami down the ladder.

The customer in question was a human woman, dressed in a fine and (in Shen’s opinion, needlessly revealing) satin dress. She did have a lot of luggage, cases and trunks of all sizes. When he arrives, Shen sees Ameiko speaking with the elegant woman. ”-and here is your room key! You’re all set for the week, aaaaand here is our porter, Rauld!’

Shen represses a tired groan at the alias as he bows slightly to the woman. ”A pleasure to serve you, Miss…?”

The woman’s darkly-colored eyes peer at Shen as a hint of a smile plays at her glossed lips. ”Lady Marri. I’m charmed to meet you, Rauld.”

Shen nods, his confusion showing in his brow as he hefts two armloads of Lady Marri’s luggage. ”And you *grunt* as well…”

Ami’s eyebrow slowly climbed up as she looked back and forth between the young man and the guest. ”...okay! Aha, allow me to take you to your room, just right this way…”

A few minutes later, and “Rauld” had finally finished moving the two-dozen parcels up to Lady Marri’s rom. Thankfully nothing had been particularly heavy, but the sheer number of items was staggering. He righted himself and clapped the dust off of his hands. ”Alright, I think that was the last of them. Is there anything else you need m’lady?”

From her seat upon the guest room bed, she tilted her head gracefully. ”Hm...well, that depends Rauld. On you.”

Shen glanced at the open doorway, then back at the guest. ”Ah, I’m afraid I don’t quite know what you mean…”

She chuckled and slowly stood and strode to the door. ”Now now, there’s no need to be shy with me. Someone with your...physique, deserves a bit more kindness then I think you find otherwise.” Slowly bending, she reaches for the door and closes it, using a single finger to slide the latch to locked.

The half-orc’s brow furrows as he peers from behind the thick scarf. ”...w-what? What are you doing?”

A rose-red colored nail taps her lip as she strides to him, stopping mere inches from his chest. ”Or...perhaps...are you still innocent? If so, that’s quite the feat…” The nail lifts from her face and hooks over the lip of the scarf. ”But you’ve certainly wondered…?”

Shen, eyes wide and face flushing, suddenly realizes what she’s alluding to. ”N-No!” He yanks her hand away, perhaps a little forcefully, as he adjusts his scarf back into position. ”No, I’m sorry. I’m not-”

”Rauld?” Both Shen and Lady Marri’s eyes snap to the closed door as Ameiko’s voice speaks muffled from behind it. ”Are you up here? Wanted to give you your part of the tip…”

The young man fumbles slightly with the latch as he hurriedly pulls it open. ”Yes, yes I’m here!” Ami is slightly surprised as Shen stumbles his way through, taking the coin out of her hand. ”A-Ah, I’m going to go back to my canvas…!” He rushes past her towards the roof, unaware of his freind’s knowing glare at Lady Marri, of the lady’s slightly indignant reaffixing of her dress’ strap.

An hour or so later, Ami journeyed to the roof again to find Shen, now ferferently painting upon the cloth. ”Hey big guy...you alright?”

He is quiet for a long moment, his eyes notably sticking to his work as she sits next to him. ”...yes. Now I am. That was…”

”Exceptionally forward and more than a little creepy?”

He nodded. ”It...it made me feel warm. Like the summer sun. But inside…”

She smiled sympathetically and hung an arm over his broad shoulders. ”Don’t worry, she’s not gonna bother you again. One of her “clients” showed up a few minutes ago, reeked of piss and ale. He made a mess of things, so now dad’s telling her to pack her stuff and get out.”

The half-orc finally broke his gaze from the artwork to shoot Ami a skeptical look, his slightly paint-stained hand coming up to scratch his chin. ”That seems a bit...excessive. We’ve had worse customers.”

”But they didn’t try to do anything to you.” She winks slyly. ”You and your safety are more important than her gold. Worth a lot more too.”

Shen groans slightly as his hand moves back to the canvas, unknowingly leaving a colored stain in his chin fluff. ”You didn’t have to do that…”

”Yeah, we did.” Her gaze gets distant for a moment before resuming its usual warmth. ”Shen, we’re here for you. No matter what, okay? Doesn’t matter how small or stupid it is, you have an issue, you talk to me or my folks.” She playfully jostles him. ”Got it lover-boy?”

”Please don’t call me that…”

She chuckles good-naturedly. ”Fine, fine, I won’t.” She stands and stretches, sparing a glance at Shen’s work-in-progress. ”Well, I’m going to bed. Be sure to lock the hatch on your way down. And...that’s an interesting shade of red there…”

”...what?” the young man inquires, but Ami is already headed down the ladder, quietly laughing to herself about the familiar rose-red shade that had mixed into Shen’s painted stars and beard hair.

Notes on things that need brushed up in italics.

Player Name--Character Name--Race/Classes--Campaign Trait--Submission Status

Michelle Williams--Masahiko--Half-Elf Conscript/Incanter--Shojinawa Scion--Mechanics mostly done, backstory to be updated

baggageboy--Wai'ju Kaijitsu--Aasimar Spiritualist/Vigilante--Amatatsu Scion--Mechanics and backstory presented

Iff--Higashiyama Nobuyuki--Human Occultist/Samurai--Higashiyama Scion--Basic mechanics presented, background presented

Legendary Sidekick--Hanako--Human Monk/Sorcerer--Sugimatu Scion--Mechanics presented, Backstory and relationship scenes presented

Viviana Masters--Rei--Human Investigator/Slayer--Sugimatu Scion--Mechanics finished, Backstory and scene presented

Blue Symbiote--Shenzuka Amatatsu--Half-Orc Magus/Samurai--Amatatsu Scion--Mechanics finished, Backstory presented

Ever_Anon--Ruko Higashiyama--Human Oracle/Slayer--Higashiyama Scion--Mechanics presented, background presented

Phntm888--Haruhiro Kaijitsu--Human Bard/Samurai--Sugimatu Scion--Mechanics finished, background and scenes presented

I've gone ahead and adjusted the story (and formatting, which didn't seem to carry earlier) in Masahiko's profile. The Kaijitsus now have the central role, and the couple with the fishery is Desmond and Chana. The fisherman he has connections with is now Hanlon. I adjusted the names to reflect the relative rarity of the Eastern cultural influences in the town.

Regarding more details with the relationships, I looked at the information on the wiki, but it seemed to go into spoiler-esque territory regarding Ameiko's siblings, so I stopped reading at that point. However, as I understand it, some of those details would need probably need to be adjusted with the modifications to make Masahiko of important heritage.

If chosen, I'd be happy to develop a much deeper narrative with Hanlon and Father Zantus in particular; I've got some threads down on paper, but to weave them, I'd need a bit of guidance with the Kaijitus' personalities as you'll be manifesting them.

Also, if you feel gestalt is a bit much, I can mechanically reimplement Masahiko as a mageknight pretty easily while keeping much of the same combat specialty; spheres is pretty easy to redistribute when compared to base Pathfinder, and I certainly have no problem facing a bit of a challenge.

Even if not selected, I appreciate the consideration!

Wai'ju grew up in Sandpoint always feeling apart. His foster parents the Kaijitsus made sure he know he was not one of them, though they insisted he use that family name. Like his foster family he was not Varisian, that much was clear from the color of his skin and the shape of his features. He was generally Tian in appearance aside from his enormous nose, another feature that distanced him from those around him. Children are often cruel and his large nose and foreign looks led many of the other children to ridicule him. All of which just reinforced the young boy's feeling of otherness. The way Lonjiku treated the boy did nothing to improve the situation.

For as long as he can remember Lonjiku seemed to resent Wai'ju. It was as though his mere existence were a burden. Still none of this prevented Lonjiku from training the young boy at a grueling pace. By Lonjiku's orders Wai'ju's mornings were spent with Atsuii, Lonjiku's wife, and their daughter Ameiko learning Minkai, history, magical theory, and a miriad of other topics. During this time he would often only half listen to his foster mother's instruction, distracted by thoughts of what he would do once he was free to play. The only topics on which he'd truly focus on were natural science and geography due his youthful aspirations of becoming great explorer. Atsuii was a patient teacher though and manged to drill some of the material into Wai'ju. Duty to family and philosophy were topics that Atsuii put particular emphasis on. Still she was often accused by Lonjiku of coddling the boy when Wai'ju failed to answer the old man's questions to his satisfaction. Atsuii would protest that he was driving the Wai'ju too hard, but she was quickly quelled, told to remember her place.

The afternoons were reserved for physical instruction by Lonjiku in swordplay and martial arts. Ameiko would join the them only for the slow open handed forms. Afterwords she was dismissed to return to learn music and receive further training in culture and manners with Atsuii.

After Ameiko would leave the intensity of the workouts would increase manyfold. The old man seemed to believe that pain was the greatest motivator and would strike the Wai'ju if he were too slow or seemed distracted. He frequently wore stripes where Lonjiku's switch struck home. Despite this Wai'ju enjoyed the physical training and so he learned quickly. He was particularly gifted at swordplay and soon could flow through the standard forms with a grace that beyond his years. Even Lonjiku had to admit that the boy showed promise. As a reward for Wai'ju's hard work he allowed Atsuii to give him a sword of his own when he came of age.

Not all of Wai'ju's childhood was spent studying however. When he could Wai'ju would wander the fields and nearby forest. He felt at home there, away from the pressures of his life at home and the jeers of the village children. He spent many days hunting and exploring. Ameiko would sometimes join him. Her friendship and kindness kept Wai'ju from growing bitter.

Once they were older Wai'ju would join Ameiko as she performed in the local Rusty Dragon inn to show his support. To him this was a way to repay his foster sister's kindness. It was on one of the evenings that Wai'ju went to watch that his life changed forever

That particular night there was a knot of caravan guards deep in their cups who began cat calling. The usual bouncer was home sick and the man filling in was intimidated by the rough men. When one of the man reached out to grab Ameiko Wai'ju stepped up to block the man. The man then turned his attention to Wai'ju attempting to strike the boy who reflexively ducked the blow. Frustrated the man swung again and again but Wai'ju's training proved it's worth and he dodged each attack. By this time a space had cleared around the pair as they danced back and forth. Embarassed that he was unable to beat the lithe youth the man pulled a knife from his belt and lunged at Wai'ju. Before he realized what he was doing Wai'ju drew his short sword in a single fluid motion blocking the thrust and slashing up across the man's throut. Stunned silence followed as the man fell to the floor.

Reacting quickly Amieko told Wai'ju to run. Though he'd done nothing wrong the man's friends moved to attack him. Dodging between them Wai'ju got to the door and took off down the road with the men in hot pursuit. The chase continued drawing confused looks from the few passers by, until he lost the caravan guards on the fields just outside of town. Wai'ju knew that running would make him appear guilty, but he was afraid that he wouldn't live long enough to give an explanation if he were caught.

Reluctant to return to town while the men might still be looking for him Wai'ju slept in the fields that night. In his dreams Wai'ju imagined he was in another land, lush and green, covered by trees he did not know. A voice he did not know seemed to speak in his mind. "Wai'ju. I am (insert name). You have stood to defend the innocent. You have proven you are worthy to bear our name."

In the morning when he arose Wai'ju had put the dream from his mind, the more pressing concern of the angry caravan guards occupying his attention. Upon returning to Sandpoint he learned that the sheriff was looking for him. Wai'ju went to his office and explained what had happened. Satisfied the sheriff him go and Wai'ju went home.

Once he was home he was severely lectured by Lonjiku. Following the lecture Wai'ju joined Atsuii for tea. While recounting to her that had happened he remembered his dream and asked her about the name. Her usual bubblng chatter cut off abruptly. In a low voice she told him to never mention the name. Confused Wai'ju tried to ask her why but she refused to say more, fervently asking him to speak no more of it. When he was about to press her further he heard the voice again in his mind, "so not pester her. I will explain." Confused Wai'ju looked around looking for the source of the voice but soon realized only he could hear it.

So Wai'ju came to know (insert name). He explained that he was the spirit of one of Wai'ju's ancestors who had come to guide him to fulfill his destiny. When asked what that meant he would only say that Wai'ju would come to know in time.

If he had thought Lonjiku was a harsh taskmaster (Insert name) proved to be far more demanding. (Insert name) drove Wai'ju to learn a form of magic far different from what Wai'ju had been taught. He also pushed Wai'ju to ever greater skill with the blade. Eventually Wai'ju learned to give (insert name) a physical form, manifesting a beautiful katana. Once (inert name) could appear as a blade he taught Wai'ju the art of combining the casting of spells with the sword forms he'd mastered and how direct the power of his spells through (insert name).

While Lonjiku and Atsuii were ingnorant of the specifics of what had happened to Wai'ju they could see how his behavior had changed. He had always enjoyed practicing with the blade, but now he spent hours practicing. Lonjiku foolishly worried that Wai'ju had enjoyed killing the man and so now trained to able to kill again. The reality couldn't have been further from the truth. Wai'ju had retreated killing the man. He'd even made offerings to Sarenrae to ask for forgiveness and trained with one of her acolytes to learn how they fight with the blade without killing. None of that would convince Lonjiku though who refused to teach Wai'ju any more.

Goaded by (insert name) to find some other means of training Wai'ju spoke with Ameiko with whom he'd confided. She suggested that the gladitorial matches in Manimar might prove a worthy challenge. (Insert name) agreed. However there was no expectation of being allowed to do such by Lonjiku. But Amieko explained that many of the fighters perform under stage names and that Wai'ju could do the same keeping his identity hidden. Soon the two had arranged to travel to Mangimar without arousing Lonjiku and Atsuii suspicion. When they got there they went to find Wai'ju a costume for the fights, specifically a cloth mask of some kind that would cover Wai'ju's distinctive nose. They found one, but it made his nose look even more like a beak. As he donned the ensamble, black shirt trousers and mask it occurred to Ameiko that he looked very mush like a raven and she said as much. Wai'ju, who hadn't been satisfied with the other ideas for stage names they had had, liked the thought and so when asked for his name before his first fight told the announcer l, "the Raven." Wai'ju did well in his first fight dodging many blows before being knocked out, so was invited to come back again.

So Wai'ju began to compete on the gladitorial circuit a week at a time every few months, as often as the cover atorys Ameiko could come up with could last. He gained some notoriety, but the purpose of his fights was not for him to gain fame, but skill. In the ring Wai'ju became used fighting opponents who would not pull their punches and learned that victory was never assured.

Now (insert name) and Wai'ju are growing restless. (Insert name) says that the time is soon coming when they must leave Sandpoint. Wai'ju is eagar to go and see the world.

CORE CONCEPTS:
1. Katana wielding swordsman who blends magic and finesse to overcome his lack of strength.
2. Explorer and hunter interested in ancient ruins, and natural wonders.
3. Deeply loyal to his family honor.
4. Guided by his phantom mentor/sword who is the spirit of the last emperor from his family.
5. Reluctant to lead/command, but has to assume the mantel of leadership.
6. Does not naturally feel comfortable with people, but has been trained to overcome this weakness.
7. Has a kind heart and wants to do what is best, but not sure always what the right path is.

APPEARANCE
Wai'ju is of average height, has golden brown skin, and has straight dark brown hair that he wears in a short ponytail at the nape of his neck. His most distinctive features are big golden eyes and a large hooked nose reminiscent of an eagles beak. He is generally quiet around strangers, but can be quite witty when he is around friends.

GOALS:
Character Goals
1. Bring honor to his family's name
2. Explore the world

Player Goals
1. Improve my my writing of internal thoughts to improve character development.
2. Explore the conflict of personal preference vs familial and cultural expectations.

SECRETS:
Character's Secrets
1. Frustrated by his foster family's silence on where he is from, Wai'ju has been quietly inquiring, while disguised, around town and has gone as far as Manimar in his search for answers. He has not been successful, but worries what will happen if his family were to find out.
2. Wai'ju conmetes in an [u]legal[/u] gladiatorial ring in Manimar. No one is supposed to die (the organizers don't want any trouble). Wai'ju competes there masked and under the stage name of "the Raven." If his parents we to find out they would be mortified.

Secrets Kept from Character
1. The origin of his phantom, Wai'ju does not know that he was the emperor, only that he is an ancestor
2. Wai'ju does not know who his parents were, just that they passed away when he was a baby and that he was left with the Kaijitsus. He also does not know that he has divine blood in his veins. (I leave how this came to be up to the GM :) )

PERSONAL TIES
1. Amieko Kaijitsu; his best friend and foster sister. They talk frequently about seeing the world together. Wai'ju is amazed by how easily Amieko interacts with people. He loves to sit and listen to her play her samisen.
2. Lonjiku Kaijitsu; was the closest thing to a father that Wai'ju has. Lonjiku demanded that Wai'ju learn his family's culture and to participate in managing the family's business. At the same time nothing that Wai'ju did seemed to satisfy him. Lonjiku's oppressive expectations often drive Wai'ju to spend time in the wilds near Sandpoint to avoid his foster father.
3. Atsuii Kaijitsu; foster mother and mentor. Her kindness is a major part of why Wai'ju hasn't left Sandpoint with one of the caravans. Where her husband has been dismissive of Wai'ju Atsuii has contantly encouraged him and told him that great things were in store for him.
4. Koya Mvashti; Wai'ju doesn't get on well with most people, but Koya has been a person that he gravitated towards. He spent many hours listening to her as a child telling of the wonders of the world. Her mentorship instilled in Wai'ju a lust to explore and a respect for her goddess Desna.
5. Sandru Vihski; rival. Sandru takes Amiko away frquenlty and while he is not as bad as his brother Jubrayl, Wai'ju worries that his association with Amieko casts a shadow on the family's honor.

MEMORIES
1. Fight with caravan guard that led Wai'ju to discover his phantom.
2. The pride that filled his breast the first time he beat Lonjiku when sparring and the old man had been forced to give a grudging acknowledgement of Wia'ju's skill.
3. Once, while spending time in the forest near Sandpoint he saw a family beset by 3 goblins. He dispatched them quickly with his trusty longbow. The honor that he brought to his name and the good that he did that day made Wai'ju want to do more to help those around him.

BUILD
- Spiritualist(Phantom Blade)/Vigilante(Stalker)
- Stats; 13, 17 12, 13, 16, 10
- Amatatsu Scion
- Garuda Blooded aaismar with traits that would make him seem like a normal human. The only exception is that he does have darkvision
- Covers healing, damage, and skills.
- Most combat will probably be melee focusing on spell striking debuffs
- Despite an average charisma, the vigilante social talents and traits offset a lot of the his failings allowing for an interesting take for an intrigue adventure

WRITING SAMPLE

Wai'ju spends a few more minutes going over his bag before leaving. In his worn leather backpack hidden beneath food for a week and a change of clothes lies his costume, a loose silk shirt, leather breaches, and a mask all midnight black. I need to get on the road soon or I won't get there in time. He thinks to himself. Again he hears the familiar voice of (insert name) This time you need to pay better attention. You need to strike harder. Shaking his head Wai'ju mentally responds, It's not that I need to hit harder, I need to hit them where it hurts. To this Wai'ju feels a silent approved, like nodding

Closing the door behind him Wai'ju is startled by Amieko who gives him a curious look. "Aren't you ready yet?"

Wai'ju smiles. "Just finishing up."

"Ok I'll meet you on the edge of town, I need to grab a few things before we go"

Just then Atsuii steps into the hallway. With a concerned look she says, "just stay safe you two. Last time you went to play in Mangimar Wai'ju came back covered in bruises. I don't want to hear you've 'fallen' again..."

"Of course|" Wai'ju says as he hurries away.

She doesn't believe you[I] (insert name) tells him as he makes it to the front door of the Kaijitsu home. [I]I know, but she'd never suspect what I am doing.

Moving quickly Wai'ju makes it to the edge of town in a few minutes where he waits for Ameiko. When she arrives he asks, "do you think she suspects?"

"Maybe, but I smoothed things over. You really need to practice keeping your cool."

"Yeah, let's get going. If we move quickly I'll have time to hunt up some rabbits for dinner tonight."

Sticking her tongue out Ameiko teases, "Oh yes, great hunter" as the begin walking down the now familiar road.

Wai'ju grew up in Sandpoint always feeling apart. His foster parents the Kaijitsus made sure he know he was not one of them, though they insisted he use that family name. Like his foster family he was not Varisian, that much was clear from the color of his skin and the shape of his features. He was generally Tian in appearance aside from his enormous nose, another feature that distanced him from those around him. Children are often cruel and his large nose and foreign looks led many of the other children to ridicule him. All of which just reinforced the young boy's feeling of otherness. The way Lonjiku treated the boy did nothing to improve the situation.

For as long as he can remember Lonjiku seemed to resent Wai'ju. It was as though his mere existence were a burden. Still none of this prevented Lonjiku from training the young boy at a grueling pace. By Lonjiku's orders Wai'ju's mornings were spent with Atsuii, Lonjiku's wife, and their daughter Ameiko learning Minkai, history, magical theory, and a miriad of other topics. During this time he would often only half listen to his foster mother's instruction, distracted by thoughts of what he would do once he was free to play. The only topics on which he'd truly focus on were natural science and geography due his youthful aspirations of becoming great explorer. Atsuii was a patient teacher though and manged to drill some of the material into Wai'ju. Duty to family and philosophy were topics that Atsuii put particular emphasis on. Still she was often accused by Lonjiku of coddling the boy when Wai'ju failed to answer the old man's questions to his satisfaction. Atsuii would protest that he was driving the Wai'ju too hard, but she was quickly quelled, told to remember her place.

The afternoons were reserved for physical instruction by Lonjiku in swordplay and martial arts. Ameiko would join the them only for the slow open handed forms. Afterwords she was dismissed to return to learn music and receive further training in culture and manners with Atsuii.

After Ameiko would leave the intensity of the workouts would increase manyfold. The old man seemed to believe that pain was the greatest motivator and would strike the Wai'ju if he were too slow or seemed distracted. He frequently wore stripes where Lonjiku's switch struck home. Despite this Wai'ju enjoyed the physical training and so he learned quickly. He was particularly gifted at swordplay and soon could flow through the standard forms with a grace that beyond his years. Even Lonjiku had to admit that the boy showed promise. As a reward for Wai'ju's hard work he allowed Atsuii to give him a sword of his own when he came of age.

Not all of Wai'ju's childhood was spent studying however. When he could Wai'ju would wander the fields and nearby forest. He felt at home there, away from the pressures of his life at home and the jeers of the village children. He spent many days hunting and exploring. Ameiko would sometimes join him. Her friendship and kindness kept Wai'ju from growing bitter.

Once they were older Wai'ju would join Ameiko as she performed in the local Rusty Dragon inn to show his support. To him this was a way to repay his foster sister's kindness. It was on one of the evenings that Wai'ju went to watch that his life changed forever

That particular night there was a knot of caravan guards deep in their cups who began cat calling. The usual bouncer was home sick and the man filling in was intimidated by the rough men. When one of the man reached out to grab Ameiko Wai'ju stepped up to block the man. The man then turned his attention to Wai'ju attempting to strike the boy who reflexively ducked the blow. Frustrated the man swung again and again but Wai'ju's training proved it's worth and he dodged each attack. By this time a space had cleared around the pair as they danced back and forth. Embarassed that he was unable to beat the lithe youth the man pulled a knife from his belt and lunged at Wai'ju. Before he realized what he was doing Wai'ju drew his short sword in a single fluid motion blocking the thrust and slashing up across the man's throut. Stunned silence followed as the man fell to the floor.

Reacting quickly Amieko told Wai'ju to run. Though he'd done nothing wrong the man's friends moved to attack him. Dodging between them Wai'ju got to the door and took off down the road with the men in hot pursuit. The chase continued drawing confused looks from the few passers by, until he lost the caravan guards on the fields just outside of town. Wai'ju knew that running would make him appear guilty, but he was afraid that he wouldn't live long enough to give an explanation if he were caught.

Reluctant to return to town while the men might still be looking for him Wai'ju slept in the fields that night. In his dreams Wai'ju imagined he was in another land, lush and green, covered by trees he did not know. A voice he did not know seemed to speak in his mind. "Wai'ju. I am (insert name). You have stood to defend the innocent. You have proven you are worthy to bear our name."

In the morning when he arose Wai'ju had put the dream from his mind, the more pressing concern of the angry caravan guards occupying his attention. Upon returning to Sandpoint he learned that the sheriff was looking for him. Wai'ju went to his office and explained what had happened. Satisfied the sheriff him go and Wai'ju went home.

Once he was home he was severely lectured by Lonjiku. Following the lecture Wai'ju joined Atsuii for tea. While recounting to her that had happened he remembered his dream and asked her about the name. Her usual bubblng chatter cut off abruptly. In a low voice she told him to never mention the name. Confused Wai'ju tried to ask her why but she refused to say more, fervently asking him to speak no more of it. When he was about to press her further he heard the voice again in his mind, "so not pester her. I will explain." Confused Wai'ju looked around looking for the source of the voice but soon realized only he could hear it.

So Wai'ju came to know (insert name). He explained that he was the spirit of one of Wai'ju's ancestors who had come to guide him to fulfill his destiny. When asked what that meant he would only say that Wai'ju would come to know in time.

If he had thought Lonjiku was a harsh taskmaster (Insert name) proved to be far more demanding. (Insert name) drove Wai'ju to learn a form of magic far different from what Wai'ju had been taught. He also pushed Wai'ju to ever greater skill with the blade. Eventually Wai'ju learned to give (insert name) a physical form, manifesting a beautiful katana. Once (inert name) could appear as a blade he taught Wai'ju the art of combining the casting of spells with the sword forms he'd mastered and how direct the power of his spells through (insert name).

While Lonjiku and Atsuii were ingnorant of the specifics of what had happened to Wai'ju they could see how his behavior had changed. He had always enjoyed practicing with the blade, but now he spent hours practicing. Lonjiku foolishly worried that Wai'ju had enjoyed killing the man and so now trained to able to kill again. The reality couldn't have been further from the truth. Wai'ju had retreated killing the man. He'd even made offerings to Sarenrae to ask for forgiveness and trained with one of her acolytes to learn how they fight with the blade without killing. None of that would convince Lonjiku though who refused to teach Wai'ju any more.

Goaded by (insert name) to find some other means of training Wai'ju spoke with Ameiko with whom he'd confided. She suggested that the gladitorial matches in Manimar might prove a worthy challenge. (Insert name) agreed. However there was no expectation of being allowed to do such by Lonjiku. But Amieko explained that many of the fighters perform under stage names and that Wai'ju could do the same keeping his identity hidden. Soon the two had arranged to travel to Mangimar without arousing Lonjiku and Atsuii suspicion. When they got there they went to find Wai'ju a costume for the fights, specifically a cloth mask of some kind that would cover Wai'ju's distinctive nose. They found one, but it made his nose look even more like a beak. As he donned the ensamble, black shirt trousers and mask it occurred to Ameiko that he looked very mush like a raven and she said as much. Wai'ju, who hadn't been satisfied with the other ideas for stage names they had had, liked the thought and so when asked for his name before his first fight told the announcer l, "the Raven." Wai'ju did well in his first fight dodging many blows before being knocked out, so was invited to come back again.

So Wai'ju began to compete on the gladitorial circuit a week at a time every few months, as often as the cover atorys Ameiko could come up with could last. He gained some notoriety, but the purpose of his fights was not for him to gain fame, but skill. In the ring Wai'ju became used fighting opponents who would not pull their punches and learned that victory was never assured.

Now (insert name) and Wai'ju are growing restless. (Insert name) says that the time is soon coming when they must leave Sandpoint. Wai'ju is eagar to go and see the world.

Prepare for a second from now
Comb your hair and compose yourself
Prepare for a second from now
Adjust your chair and clear your throat
A second from the present is nigh
Are all your affairs in order now?
A second is a very short time
A moment to anticipate the things to come

The next second won't be anything like the current one
And we won't know how it's gonna be till a second is done

No one can see into the future
We're just going to have to wait
There may be strange new customs and new ideas
So try to keep an open mind
Prepare for a second from now
As if that would make any difference at all
Ready or not it is coming
And there's no way to stop the clock

The next second's gonna make the present seem like long ago
And make you forget everything that you currently know

Counting down to zero from one
Hold your breath, here it comes

Now that the second has passed
Let's all reflect on the times we've had
Look back on a second ago
Given everything that we now know
Remember a second ago
Recall if you can how it used to be
Remember a second ago
It's hard to believe we were so naïve

I can barely remember anything about a second ago
We will soon be a second in the future that is all I know