☠ Season of Ghosts w/ DM rainzax ☠

Game Master rainzax

The child is safe... thank the sun.

Sigurd sees the jinkin and snake. "It is best you stand down. It would be folly to fight us."

Intimidation, Aid from Sigurd: 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 7 + 2 = 26

Lan looks at Sigurd, and with total deadpan, asks if that's such a good idea.

"After all, if we were to kill him and behead him like we did the others, we'd be able to make a perfect circle around Gurglegut's beheaded head."

Then, he looks back at the jinkin and pulls out a coin. "Head ... or tail?"

Everyone else seemed to accept young Hua's company on this horrid jaunt, and Auntie Wu's splitting headache gave her just cause to simply let it happen. No point in fighting over it when a child's life is in danger. Thankfully, they catch up to the snake and jinkin before any serious harm was done to the boy.

And then Lan speaks like a stone cold killer. Auntie Wu's eyes go wide as her head slowly turns toward Lan. She takes a half step away from him, then her eyes flick to the jinkin. "I... I've never seen him like this before. Run!"

Deception to Aid Lan: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9
Crit fail to aid. Ouch.

Even as her words leave her lips, she knows she's not helping. Her fingers twitch as she prepares herself to cast a Healing spell if the boy is harmed.

”Um, HEADS!”

We are roleplaying a success

Excited by the prospect to flip a coin for his own fate, New Jinkin Beastie forgets his fear a moment - but only a moment ”Wait. What do you mean ‘the others’?” clearly concerned ”Wait. You know Gurglegut!? He not make you Jester?” the concern grows... but suddenly changes ”Well. You not know Mo Douqiu - he even Stronger than Gurglegut!”

Resigned to his fate, even fully standing down, New Jinkin Beastie yanks on the leash in his right hand around his pet Constrictor to prevent it’s advance on the party, and releases the leash in his left hand around the Tengu child’s neck - who subsequently (perhaps instinctually) runs to stand beside Vekka, hugging the stranger.

”Okay, FLIP. Heads I live, tails I die. Go!”

"Oh, no, you misunderstand. Heads, we will mount your head on a lamp post, and tails, we'll use your tail to secure the others' heads. Of course, your other option is to flee - leave this town, forever. Forget Gurglegut. Forget Mo Douqiu. Forget you ever heard of Willowshore, and tell anyone who will listen about the fate that will befall anyone who crosses our path."

Maintaining a cautious distance, Kazuki positions himself about 30 feet away, bowstring taut, and arrow aimed at the Jinkin. His focused gaze shifts between the mischievous creature and its serpentine companion, ready to react to any sudden movements. The tension in the air is palpable as Kazuki assesses the situation, ready to let arrows loose if needed.

New Jinkin Beastie Spills his Guts

At the players’ option, similar to “Gimmy Spills his Guts” (which the party failed, letting Gimmy walk free...), you have an opportunity to learn more about Mo Douqiu from New Jinkin Beastie’s description of him, using the fear he feels to get him to talk.

You are also welcome to just walk away with the child already in your custody...

➤ Level: One (Base DC 15)
➤ Complexity: 2 rounds
➤ Timeframe: 10 minutes
➤ Synergies: Unknown
➤ List of Skills: Deception (moderate), Diplomacy (hard), Intimidation (easy), Perception (hard), Society (moderate)

”Ha! You have stepped into my trap! Everyone come out Now!”

Is it true? Is this an ambush?...

...”Just kidding, I not that smart. But Mo Douqiu? He smart and strong. Yes. He sidekick!” the gremlin grins as yet more urine trails down his leg...

”Okay, flip! Heads I die, tails I die! I not tell you about Mo Douqiu!” wondering if he even has a card to play...

"Maybe if you tell us enough about Mo Douqiu, we won't even kill you. Maybe we'd let you keep an arm. Or a leg. Probably not both, unless the information is really good."

Intimidation: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20

"I not sure I's wants to tell you about Mo Douqiu!" he takes the bait, lays his own "Mo Douqiu not like I tell you about Mo Douqiu!" he stamps his foot for emphasis "If I does tell you about Mo Douqiu, Mo Douqiu kill me" he crosses his arms "You kill me. Mo Douqiu kill me. I die both ways!!" his own words frustrate him "Flip coin! Heads I die, Tails I die, Mo Douqiu I die!!!"

One Success

All of this talk is quite confusing, but the child is safe, thank Shizuru. Is Ho Lan really going to...?

"Wait. Mo Douqiu. Gurglegut's superior? Tell me about this organization."

Society: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20

Vekka gives Ho Lan a sideways look. He's effective, but brutal and heavy-handed. On the other hand, no more so than these creatures threatening their community.

He accepts the tengu child running to him. He quickly leans down and asks in a hush

Do you know your way back to the shelter? Actually... maybe you should just stay next to me right now. We'll keep you safe!

He shuffles the child behind him and squares himself up with the jinkin to join in with the negotiation.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7 arg

Look little guy, you think you die either way but we defeated your Gurglegut and several of his thugs, all at once. I was able to cleave his body in two. There's a pretty good chance we can take on your Mo Douqiu as well. We're your best chance at living... if you help us.

Kazuki's fingers tremble slightly in rage on the taut bowstring as he maintains a steady aim, his gaze fixed along the length of the arrow pointed at the jinkin.
"Just let me kill the murderous bastard now," he mutters while keeping his aim set on the jinkin.

"No no" New Jinkin Beastie insists "Mo Douqiu cannot be killed!" exaggerating "Mo Douqiu Unvisible!"

Intimidation: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26

"Everything can be killed." To emphasize his point, Lan sends an electric arc shooting between two nearby trees.

"Unvisible? How do you follow the orders of one you cannot see?"

Society: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (19) + 3 = 22

Sigurd realizes there's a gang not too far from Willowshore... He needs more information. More!

”You can’t see him cause, cause... ...cause you’re dead!”

Two more successes, awaiting Auntie Wu, Sato, and Vekka!

Kazuki keeps his sights on the creature while the others engage in conversation with the little beast. He watches for any signs of deception.

Perception w/hunt prey: 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 7 + 2 = 26
Perception w/hunt prey: 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 7 + 2 = 26

Wow. I was very reluctant to partake in the challenge due to fear of failing the checks.

...”Just kidding, I not that smart. But Mo Douqiu? He smart and strong. Yes. He sidekick!” the gremlin grins as yet more urine trails down his leg...

...Sato realizes here that the Jinkin is probably mispronouncing the word "psychic"...

"No no" New Jinkin Beastie insists "Mo Douqiu cannot be killed!" exaggerating "Mo Douqiu Unvisible!"

...and "invincible"...

"Yeah yeah. Mo Douqiu kill you with his strong neck!" he seems to imagine it "Yeah!!"

❖❖❖ ❖❖❖ ❖❖❖

Exasperated by--well, all of this--Auntie Wu groans. "Mo Douqiu will probably kill you slowly and painfully, to make an example of you so all his other minions would be too afraid to talk. We won't. And you might even be able to convince him to let you go." She cocks her head in Ho Lan's direction.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (14) + 4 = 18

She tries to use a tone that would communicate understanding, knowing that jinkins have a harsher understanding of...understanding. "It's awful knowing that you're in danger no matter what you do. But that's when you think less about what others want and more about what you need right now. And right now, don't you need no pain?" I sure do. And a stiff drink and a smoke.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20

Chapter 2: Reclaiming Willowshore

Anchor Post (Please "favorite" for easy going back-and-forth!)

New Jinkin Beastie spills his guts - you learn a little about Mo Douqiu's appearance, motivations, allegiances, etc, as well as ways to defeat him. The true fate of New Jinkin Beastie is up to you afterwards - he promises to leave if allowed to live, for what it is worth...

Still awaiting Vekka's last skill check, as well as a quorum on the Questions (see Discussion) - going to push us along anyway, as we got a lot on deck!

...Eventually, the party returns to the Makeshift Refugee Camp of the Ceiba-Duyue Exchange, and get to work helping to fortify the camp, get some needed rest, and finally arranging a meeting with Granny Hu, who catches wind of the party's Liberation of Dawnstep Bridge and Elimination of the "Junk Cyclops" Gurglegut, and decides to Consult with them in her War Room!

1) Downtime
This is a "Help Out Around Camp" montage!
You have one "Week" worth of Downtime here, and can use it either to Retrain or to Earn Income (Task Level equal to Your Current Level). Mechanically, Retraining will look like the option to Rebuild your Character (just like PFS "free retrain @ 1st" privileges), so long as you keep their personality and general makeup, and Earning Income will only be several hours in-game, but "earning" a full Week's worth of value; Choose and roll a single Skill Check that represents how you Help Out around the camp. You can also "Stay Up All Night" to double your Downtime here, but will spend the following entire day Fatigued!

2) Long Rest and Level Up
After you have completed your Downtime above, level your character to Level Two and take a Long Rest, including "purchasing" any new Equipment (see Houserules) and finally declaring Daily Preparations when you are ready to move forward!

Note: If you want to swap the order of #2 and #3, I can make that work!

3) Granny Hu's War Room
I will be using Chess pieces to represent the threats she has marked at different locations on the map. For each, too, a summarizing "Spy's Report" with the presumption that a PC has inquired about that Piece at that Location. This Encounter with Granny Hu will double as an Influence Skill Challenge (see below) - she is, after all, though younger than her rival "Old" Matsuki (the Southbank leader), one of the oldest and most respected members of the community, and especially in Northridge!

The Chessboard
➤ All the White pieces @ Ceiba-Duyue Exchange (W21)
➤ Black King @ The Cerulean Teahouse (W25) w/ "Rumors of a Creature called 'Mo Douqiu'"
➤ Black Queen @ Dawnstep Bridge (W11) w/ "Junk Cyclops and Gremlins"
➤ Black Bishop @ Downtown (W15) @ Governor Heh Shan-Bao's Disappeared Estate (!) w/ "Infected Trees"
➤ Black Knight @ Downtown (W15) @ Imperial Barracks w/ "Gremlins on Winged Beasts"
➤ Black Rook @ Downtown (W15) @ Mixed Reports (Opera House? Storefront? Bathouse?) w/ "Army of Animate Cutlery"
➤ Black Pawns @ Nearly every building in and around Downtown and Beyond w/ "Ghosts and Gremlins and Man-Eating Animals"

A reminder that Vekka and Lan's homes (and Heirlooms!) are "on the way" to Downtown and beyond at locations W20: "Mother's Coil" and W18 "near (preferably right next to) Tian-Zhe's house"! As you will still have to Navigate your way back (risking Random Encounters, etc), I will let you stop by one or both "for free" along the way if you so choose!

Influencing Granny Hu's Master Plan
Granny Hu's gentle smile makes her feel approachable as if she's ready to listen to your woes, but the hard glint in her eye let's you know she is no pushover. She has a most excellent collection of teapots and teacups, and her steward, Kim Gu-won (NPC #20), keeps her appetite for tea continuously sated.

➤ Level: Two (Base DC 16)
➤ Complexity: One round to start. If you defeat another Chess Piece, you "earn" another round!
➤ Timeframe: 1 hour
➤ Resistance / Weakness: Unknown
➤ List of Discovery Skills: Perception, Tea Lore, plus others
➤ List of Influence Skills: Diplomacy, Intimidation, plus others

Kazuki helps out around the camp with foraging for edibles in the woods, tending to cooking fires, building makeshift shelters, and whatever else a skilled woodsman can assist with...
Survival (T) & Terrain Exp.: 1d20 + 5 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 5 + 1 = 22
Not wanting to be fatigued the next day, Kazuki is early to bed and early to rise all week.

14 sp earned.

Vekka makes a final appeal to the jinkin.

I think by now you've heard enough from us to understand we can take on Mo Douqiu. It's us you need to be more worried about. Help us do what we do and you stand a chance to make it.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18

Before downtime sets in...

Vekka will look around for Jubei and ensure she made it through the chaos of the attack on the town. Once he's happy that she's safe, he will help out around town. It seems the camp can be expanded by repairing some of the homes nearby.

Crafting: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (10) + 5 = 15

Sigurd gets whatever information he can from the jinkin and lets it go. As long as it flees and never returns to Willowshore he does not care. Besides, the young boy is priority. "You were very smart, young man." He nods to the scared boy hiding behind Vekka. "Your community will always look out for you. Let us return to the camp."

Ho Lan's threats seemed so genuine. Sigurd always felt ignored when he declared Divine Judgement, at least until his katana spoke for him. It would be nice to avoid violence.

Sigurd takes off his armor. It felt so heavy after an unexpected day of marching around and into town. Shizuru. Please protect the people South of the river. I will secure and protect them as soon as possible.

He spends the night practicing his katas. He did well today, but who knows what tomorrow will bring?

Lore: Art: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17

During the night, Sigurd gives his opinion on performance pieces. Storytellers reciting the tales of past wars, love, and Willowshore's continued survival. While Sigurd himself was no performer (his siblings always stole the spotlight,) he was able to give tips and advice that was always well appreciated.

As she watches the final jinkin and his pet snake scamper into the forest, Auntie Wu feels a twisting in her gut. It might be her cravings, or hunger, or worry, or fear. Probably all of them. She muses with a sigh. Turning to the boy, she holds out her hand. "Come on. Let's get you back to your family. We'll make sure you're not badly injured once they know you're safe. I'm Auntie Wu. What's your name?"

And then there was a whir of activity with the boy's family, and then she noticed how a group of folks were trying to set up a hydroponic system in a dark corner, so of course she had to help them find a better location so the plants wouldn't die and show them plants that were better suited to that set up.

Earn Income (Farming Lore): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7
Cue sad trombone sound.

And those ungrateful folks had the nerve to tell her to mind he own cranky business. So she took her leave in a huff and went to find someone who'd let her bum a smoke from them. At least that endeavor went well. Ahhhhh....

For curiosity, and for tracking the story of "The Summer that Never Was", here is a list of deeds that earned XP. I will also keep a running record in this alias throughout the AP!

In addition to XP, you have all earned Reputation with the Willowshore factions, as spoilered here:

Earlier

2) Where is Mo Douqiu?

4) Who are the others who are scarier than Mo Douqiu? (Does he report to anyone?)
5) What are Mo Douqiu's goals regarding Willowshore?
a) Resistances?
b) Weaknesses?
e) Special Attacks?

Though you learn this later (in Granny Hu's War Room) unbeknownst to you at the time, Mo Douqiu has taken over the Cerulean Teahouse (W25) as his domain, and NJB describes what it's like on the inside and out of the two-story building (I will provide you a map / blueprint in Slides for your success here). NJB is aware of a third "Boss" who "has many loyal knives" but that is all he knows - the three of them (including the late Gurglegut) are in kahoots to take over Willowshore. NJB thinks Mo Douqiu is simply seizing an opportunity, rather than orchestrating an intentional war - considers the townsfolk as easily exploitable and that he is smart enough to easily keep his grasp of the Teashop - he really like the Teashop for some reason. In terms of how to defeat him, NJB doesn't think he has any Resistances nor Weaknesses, but he remarks that he never seems to sleep (Immune to Sleep effects), and is "hard to blow up" (Special Defensive Reaction vs Bombs), but that his "really really fast really really long neck" allows him to "kill you from far away quickly" (Reactive Strike with Reach). That is all he knows. When the party let's him live, and tries to press the Deal of Not Returning, New Jinkin Beastie remarks "Your town is too Stupid for me come back - I leave for good promise - Bye" and walks off, sticking his tongue out to Vekka and Sato on his way out, and jerking the leash of his snake to slither with him.

☀☀☀ ☀☀☀ ☀☀☀ ☀☀☀ ☀☀☀

Later

Sato sneaks out of the camp unnoticed - returns a few hours later with firewood, a couple small mammals, and a collection of berries, adding them to the community kitchen to the delight of all who witness. Vekka gets to work helping to construct and maintain the makeshift shelters, including that of the folks of the boy he rescued, who are overcome with gratitude and seek to gift him with what meager possessions they can spare, insisting that it would be rude for him to turn them down. Sigurd is chased down by a spirited cluster of old ladies that ask him to recount his run-in with the feared Gurglegut, seeking to immortalize the deed with a poem, which, showing their second draft to him, he wows them by suggesting an alternate structure on a few of the stanzas - they shower him with gifts as a reward for his poetic insight.

Three Successes

Lan gets up to no good, no doubt...

One Undetermined

...and then there is Aunti Wu! Although she has luck with the young boy's name (he is "Chipper"), her good intentions are misconstrued by the would-be hydroponickers as arrogance "Look lady, we can handle it ourselves" or somesuch is what she finds herself rebuffed by, shunned even by the gardeners of this Northridge faction!

One Failure

"No sleep. Good at avoiding bombs. Beware of their long reach." Sigurd writes this down for later. "One down, three to go."

At least the Jinkin seems true to his word.

Having woken up early this morning and spent the better part of several hours lost first in the wilderness and second in their own unrecognizably besieged hometown, the party then works tirelessly through the afternoon and evening helping out around the camp, when so it is that sheer exhaustion forces them into a reluctant slumber...

Full Rest

...disturbed now as Hai-Er Hua comes to awaken them for a nighttime meeting with Granny Hu in her makeshift War Room.

"These are the heroes who Liberated Dawnstep Bridge and slew the One-eyed Tyrant" Hua introduces them briefly "And to whom I pledge to assist in helping to Retake Downtown Willowshore"

As the daughter of the slain watchman finishes her introduction, the eyes of Granny Hu, her right hand man Kim Gu-won, and a few others in the room all turn their undivided attentions unto you!

GM Tips:
1) Let the content of your post be interacting with the Chess Board somehow.
2) Couple that with a single skill check described in the statblock below.
3) Propose a plan of action based on the ensuing conversation.
X) Reminder: Only a single skill check at this time!

The Chessboard
➤ All the White pieces @ Ceiba-Duyue Exchange (W21)
➤ Black King @ The Cerulean Teahouse (W25) w/ "Rumors of a Creature called 'Mo Douqiu'"
➤ Black Queen @ Dawnstep Bridge (W11) w/ "Junk Cyclops and Gremlins" (Piece since removed, now sitting aside)
➤ Black Bishop @ Downtown (W15) @ Governor Heh Shan-Bao's Disappeared Estate (!) w/ "Infected Trees"
➤ Black Knight @ Downtown (W15) @ Imperial Barracks w/ "Gremlins on Winged Beasts"
➤ Black Rook @ Downtown (W15) @ Mixed Reports (Opera House? Storefront? Bathouse?) w/ "Army of Animate Cutlery"
➤ Black Pawns @ Nearly every building in and around Downtown and Beyond w/ "Ghosts and Gremlins and Man-Eating Animals"

Influencing Granny Hu's Master Plan
➤ Level: Two (Base DC 16)
➤ Complexity: One round to start. If you defeat another Chess Piece, you "earn" another round!
➤ Timeframe: 1 hour
➤ Resistance / Weakness: Unknown
➤ List of Discovery Skills: Perception, Tea Lore, plus others
➤ List of Influence Skills: Diplomacy, Intimidation, plus others

Influence

A few recognizable faces are present among those gathered in the War Room!

His katas complete, Sigurd sheathes his katana, finds a spot to rest, and removes his armor. His prays to Shizuru for the safety of his family, his friends, and the community.

His dreams consist of him walking through a red fog. As he pushes against the red darkness, rays of sunlight trace to his footsteps, pushing him ahead and giving him the strength to continue.

He wakes up with a jolt. "Hua, good morning. Ah, it's not morning, is it?" He frowns. "Never mind. If Granny Hu requests my presence, it will be done." He reaches for his armor, only to pause in the presence of an unmarried woman. "Er, I will be there soon. Once I... undress and put on my armor. A bit of privacy?"

Sigurd enters the war room, katana sheathed but his shield strapped. "Thank you, Granny Hu. I am honored by your invitation." He bows formally.

He watches the board, its piece placement and realizes it's an impromptu map of the city. He notices the pieces don't go much further than downtown. "It makes sense that we don't know much about the Southern side- Gurglegut was guarding it yesterday. Still, I would like to explore there at some point. I need to get confirmation on my siblings safety."

With the personal request out of the way he continues. "One of the Jinkin told us a bit about this... Mo Douqiu. He is almost certainly the leader. The Jinkin told us he had three lieutenants, one of whom was Gurglegut. We also know gathering three blessed coins and lighting the Eternal Lantern will dispel this red mist and end the animals' mania and bloodlust."

"I suggest we first take the Imperial Barracks." He reaches for the Black Knight. "If these rumors are true that there are Winged Beasts, the enemy can use the mobility to pick away at us. If the creatures can be tamed, then we can take advantage. Either way, there may be some weapons and supplies we can use to secure the camp."

He moves the piece up and over. "Either we will convert it to white or move it off the board. A victory either way."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (17) + 5 = 22

Granny Hu nods - her penetrating gaze sees right into your soul!

And yet, deigns not to speak yet. Instead, clearing his throat, Kim Gu-won fills the empty space, looking from her to Kolphan and back, finally nodding "And we, Sigurd Kolphan, by your acceptance of our invitation. Indeed, you raise a valid point: For due to the actions of your Company, we have an opportunity to make contact with Southbank" he looks at Granny Hu one last time, as if checking himself, before continuing "Furthermore, your intel on one Mo Douqiu and his two lieutenants is most probably credible" he clears his throat again, gaining confidence "And thirdly, have previously concluded that the idea of retaking the barracks..." he points across to the Black Knight piece "...is of high priority, for the reasons you mentioned. The Gremlins, it appears, are rather, well..." he wants to say "stupid" but pivots instead to "...less tactically inclined. It might be an exploitable weak point. Perhaps a strike team with quick and decisive force could take them within the night, leaving us better positioned by morning..." again clears his throat "As I'm sure the efforts of Zheng Peng, Captain of the Willowshore Imperial Guard, could surely be supported and redoubled..."

...at the mention of Zheng Peng, Granny Hu narrows her gaze at Auntie Wu and Ho Lan - does she know something!?...

Puffing up a little, it seems as if Kim Gu-won draws from his own opinion exclusively here in saying that "I, too, am aware of the Eternal Lantern's protection over this town. So another high priority is to see to it's re-ignition. I see you are a man of Shizuru - you are thereby honor-bound to make haste with that task. The question only remains of which is the higher priority, and, what have we the manpower to afford!"

Clearing his throat one final time "...In any case. While we consider your bold proposal, would anyone else in your Company care to speak? Your input on these matters will be greatly considered!"

Success to Diplomacy vs DC 18
Influence Points: 1
First Threshold: 2

Society: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (19) + 4 = 23

Sigurd merely nods. Zheng Peng wasn't... Sigurd's first choice to claim the guardhouse. But it was not best to speak in front of his aunt.

Back with Granny Hu

The Imperial Barracks is a good first advantage to take from them. I do wonder, however, if first igniting the lantern would make all such steps simpler for our part.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12

Leveled up (Blessed One Dedication) and purchases made (a few consumables).

Once she's got her fix (as much as she can for now) and she can think straight (more or less), Auntie Wu goes looking for her daughter, Zhung, and her family. She's so relieved when she finds them, all whole and safe, that she doesn't even register the stiff reception she receives from her husband, Xao, or the disapproving look that passes between them when they smell the smoke on her. But they let her sit with them for a spell, and she gives Cho a Goodberry, which goes over well. They even let her tell him a bedtime story before bidding her goodnight. It was...actually a nice visit. Only slightly strained.

She finds a pallet to sleep and immediately falls into troubled dreams of grotesque faces appearing in sighing winds, the screams of children, and shadows of unnamed fears. Suddenly the images clear and silence rings in her ears. An ashen-skinned Garundi woman with white eyes appears before her, dressed in a black cloak and holding an hourglass filled with red sand: Pharasma, the Lady of Graves. Her mouth does not move, but words ring in Auntie Wu's head: Wu: your fate has come. Rise to the occasion. Change undeath to death. Pharasma's image fades into darkness, and Auntie Wu sleeps a deep, dreamless, restorative sleep until she is abruptly awakened. It takes a full twenty minutes for her to realize that she doesn't feel any cravings right now. Huh. That's a miracle. Can't bank on that happening every morning. Better stock up on tea and smokes as soon as I can. --OH! I should've looked for Luma!

She greets Granny Hu respectfully and resolves to spend more time listening than talking (a wise choice, considering her background, but whether or not she can do that is another thing entirely).

[qoute]...at the mention of Zheng Peng, Granny Hu narrows her gaze at Auntie Wu and Ho Lan - does she know something!?...

Auntie Wu pretends not to notice, though her thoughts get snippy. What? Seriously! Say it or shove it, you controlling bag! And why aren't you talking?

Perception (Discovery): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11

Society DC 5: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 1 = 17

At Vekka's suggestion, she muses: "It would be too easy for them to put out the lantern again if we don't eliminate more of the sentient threats and gain more resources. Once we've taken the barracks back, we might be able to spare people to guard the lantern once it's relit. As much as I want to light it now, we need to be smart about how we do this. Start in one area with valuable resources that we're certain we can hold, secure it, and spread out from there." She gestures to the black knight first, then the bishop and rook, then the rest of the pawns in the downtown area.

A little later, when there's an opening, she asks: "Do you have more details on the infected trees, or know who could tell us more?"

Amended interation with Jubei as I misunderstood her location.

Back at the meeting...

Can we not spare guards for the lantern? Hmph, perhaps you're right though.

"Perhaps" Kim Gu-Won nods to Vekka and Auntie Wu, a little dismissively...

Failure, Failure

...Granny Hu looks upon Lan and Sato now, a stare of iron judgement chilling them to the bone!

While Kolphan and Vekka talk and Auntie Wu watches (That is all they know about the trees), Lan and Sato decide how to Influence Granny Hu!

Kazuki approaches Kum Soon-chong, a look of relief and happiness on his face at seeing his good friend.
"Soon-chong! So good to see you, my friend. How are the stables? Are you alright? Is Southbank holding out?"
Kazuki glances about, his smile turning to a look of worry.
"Where is Meng-sung? Tell me he is okay."

----------------------------

Kazuki inquisitively pokes at some of the game pieces on the board, but not enough to move them or knock them over
"What do these all mean?" he asks to no one in particular.

"Ah. I see. The black king. This is where Mo Douqiu is holed up. And this..."
He taps on the black knight.
"The beasts in the barracks."

Kazuki listens to the others as they discuss tactics and the various besieged buildings. He considers Sigurd's plan on taking the barracks first. Kazuki speaks up...
"We're here, right?” he states, rather than asks as he points at the collection of white game pieces at the east end of the gameboard map. "And we need to get... here." he traces a line with his finger to the center of town where the black knight, rook, and bishop are gathered.
"I have learned and been trained in the style of hit-and-run tactics; take them by surprise, retreat, then hit hard again. We should skirt the road into town along the woods to the north and hit the center of town, the barracks..." he taps the black knight, "...from the north. Retreat back into the woods, if needed, where the trees will give us cover and places to hide. If all goes well taking the barracks, then we hit these..." he taps the black rook and bishop.

He looks at Granny Hu, hoping his knowledge of guerilla tactics impressed her...
Lore (Scouting, T): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19

List of Discovery Skills says "plus others". Not sure what the others are. *Shrug*

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26

Lan is pleased to see such a detailed, comprehensive plan protecting the most important strategic areas of Willowshore, which is, of course, Northridge.

The day's work has left him exhausted, and he can't wait to wash his hands of this whole mess and make sure his friend, Huo Tian-Zhe, is okay. Perhaps, he can also stop by his well-protected house and marvel enviously at the cold iron statue of Fumeiyoshi that he has stashed under the bed. He had done enough good for the day, he deserved a little break.

But as he is leaving the war room, he spies Sigurd Kolphan, an honest man, removing his armor and settling down to pray. He looks over at Auntie Wu, fretting over the map and worrying about her family. He spies Kato, planning strategy. And Vekka looks for his friend, his concern unsullied by jealousy.

Lan also spots Dr. Damihansig Mababangloob, from The Hand of Spring (W19) It's obvious why Dami is here - the man hasn't slept a wink. Somehow he remains soft of face and expression, for indeed, his passion truly is to care for others. Too, opinions seem to be turning about his use of unorthodox methods mixed with traditional methods of medicine. To a man of greater ego, perhaps, this would be vindication. Instead, he doubles down working humbly, seeming to derive simple joy in being of use in this time of need.

Lan decides his selfishness could wait for a few hours. Lan will not get his family heirloom at this time. As he begins poring over the map with the others, he feels different. The glowing power in his hands fades, replaced by a faint fire-like glowing in his lips as he begins to speak. Remastering Burning Hands to Breathe Fire. He begins to understand how deadly the splash can be on his acid spell and vows to be more cognizant of where the acid splashes. Remastering Acid Splash to Caustic Blast. His superstition of ghosts begins to morph into resolve, and Lan begins to understand that he has power to help the living. Retraining Disrupt Undead to Needle Darts.

As he pores over the map, he steps on a discarded hat. Brushing it off, he puts it on - it fits just right. Purchasing Hat of Disguise.

Perhaps with a renewed outlook on life, Lan opens his mouth - and begins to advocate that the Southies' concern for all citizens of Willowshore should be reflected in Granny Hu's plan.

Influencing Granny Hu's Master Plan: Part One (Concluded)

Perhaps Granny Hu actually starts to like you, perhaps she has decided that you are not plotting against her, but in any case: She speaks!

Sato @ Failure (Scouting Lore is not a Discovery skill with Granny Hu)
Lan @ Success!
Influence w/ Granny Hu @ 2pts
+1 Reputation w/ Northridge

First to Lan "Any plan that Retakes Downtown helps South of the Ceiba River by default" cutting like a sharp knife, she shreds any implication that her interests are anything other than wholly benevolent for the entirety of the community, then quickly pivots to praise "Your Liberation of Dawnstep paves the way forward - without that strategic location, the South would be lost" her expression seems to feign empathy, or perhaps it is truly real, obfuscating her altruistic intention behind a militaristically severe tone? In any case, the nods around the room silently echo her words in salute to the party's bravery (indeed - the entire room is SILENT while she speaks!), and she snaps her fingers "Let us proceed, then. While you are of course welcome to stay behind, there is a small garrison of armed men ready to take the Barracks" she points to a few of the White pieces off the board - (You can recall a small collection of people from many walks of life, but including soldiers or former soldiers, carrying around various implements, makeshift and authentic alike) - "But in either case, we must Hold this location while simultaneously Taking the other" pointing now to the Black Knight. There is a moment of silence... but she is not done! Using her powers of discernment, she assigns! "I can tell you are not the type to simply Defend, but Attack" her gaze shifts to Kolphan now "It is then resolved: You shall brave the Barracks with the same skill which allowed you to seize Dawnstep. I will supply you with some of our limited supply of talismanry. Then, you will return to Me!" and making stern eye contact with all five members of the party - as if daring them to speak out against her final three words! - waves her hand, and the entire room starts moving again, with several things happening at once, but whose most notable actions include:

➤ Hai-Er Hua standing beside you, Arbalest at the ready, armored
➤ Other soldiers and townsfolk returning to their posts around camp
➤ Your friends (Dami, Jubei, and Soon-chong) dismissing themselves
➤ Kim Gu-won handing you 3d6 ⇒ (1, 3, 5) = 9 Potency Crystals
➤ Granny Hu handing Kolphan or Lan?: 1d6 ⇒ 3 Sigurd Kolphan a wax-sealed note with her own personal stamp

I attempted to summarize your proposals below - let's turn them into a List of 1 to 3 locations to hit first (for example, you are welcome to head straight to the Barracks, or perhaps you want to "stop by" someone's home to pick up an Heirloom?)... Again, the sandbox opens to you, so I need some direction about what part of Willowshore to prepare! It's also worth noting that while most of you posted "what", Sato has posted "how" - feel free to brainstorm both strategy and tactics!
Please, discuss!!

Once we are decided, we'll do Daily Preparations, then be on our way!

You notice that Vekka nods vigorously when Granny Hu emphasizes the benefit of the entire community, North and South.

After all have had their say, Vekka concedes. Very well, perhaps we should head to the Barracks first. But then the Eternal Lantern soon after.

North and South. Yes. We must fight as one. Sigurd nods in appreciation. "Thank you for this opportunity. We shall retake the Barracks as soon as possible."

As the crowd separates he nods. "I hope we will be able to map out the shrines and relight the Eternal Lantern afterward- this will give us safety and protection."

Sigurd spends some time sparring with the guard, squeezing in an opportunity to practice his katas and morning prayer. Flexible Spellcaster, no prep time needed.

He then asks someone to affix a >Potency Crystal< to his katana's hilt.

Darius. Sheela. Be safe.

"Ah, what should we do with the wax-sealed note? Should we use this to prove Granny Hu sent us?" He asks Kim Gu-Won

Kim Gu-Won waits until nobody else is looking - easily a couple of seconds with the great activity set into motion by the resolutions of the War Council "It is a personal message for you from Master Hu" he explains quickly while looking left and right, and immediately returning to the task he had been pre-occupied with at hand...

While you were sleeping

...the Mirage Mist faded slowly after the sun set, like a cloud of mosquitos retreating from torchfire...

Now

...but as the night darkens, a frighteningly Crimson Moon spots the firmament like so much blood pooling from an infected wound, chunky reds stained nearly brown with splotches of messy discoloration...

Auntie Wu's Will Save (E): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16
Ho Lan's Will Save (E): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17
Sigurd Kolphan's Will Save (E): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19
Kazuki Sato's Will Save (T): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9 Hero Point?
Vekka Tchakon's Will Save (E): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (17) + 5 = 22