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Play By Post Section => Mythic Nippon: The Demon God of Sendai => Trophy Room => Adventure IV => Topic started by: BerkaZerka on May 14, 2014, 04:38:47 pm

Title: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 14, 2014, 04:38:47 pm
PROLOG
A Strange Messenger


Early on the morning following the Samurais' return to Sendai, Yuki Shirahata sat at breakfast in the front room of her mother’s family manor with little Kioko. As she sipped hot tea and considered what lie ahead for herself and the other time-displaced Samurai, a light rapping sound came to the door.

Seeing to the door, Yuki opened it to find no one there. Had she not just returned from a harrowing journey into the Spirit world, she might have dismissed the sound as a mischievous boy playing a prank – but activating her Sorcerer’s Sight, a small spirit came into view.

The spirit appeared as a small calligraphy brush standing upright near Yuki’s foot. Upon realizing that Yuki could see it, the spirit bowed and moved into the home, leaving a line of black ink on the ground behind it as it went along.

Kioko meanwhile, came along to see who was at the door and burst out laughing – “Oh my goodness! It’s making a mess all over the floor! Hee hee!”

Ignoring Kioko and drawing itself to a table, the calligraphy spirit flipped itself up and bowed again, before standing still.

“It wants a paper,” Kioko pointed out; and sure enough, the table it had hopped onto was indeed a writing desk.

Placing a large piece of parchment before the spirit, Yuki and Kioko watched as it hopped suddenly onto the paper and began scribing a message:

“Yuki-san, I am very glad to see that you and your fellow Samurai have made it back into the physical world and trust you have successfully recovered the Book of Secrets.”

“I am not currently at my mountain home, but will be arriving personally in Sendai one week hence. Wait for me there and alert the others of my impending arrival.”

“Uncle Yunikawa.”

Upon finishing the letter, the calligraphy spirit bowed once more and vanished back into the Spirit world.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 14, 2014, 05:37:10 pm
2nd Day of Spring, 1306
What next?


While it was not exactly Yuki’s nature to share everything with her fellow Samurai, something in the message from Yunikawa instilled a sense of urgency in Yuki to gather together the rest of the Samurai, to relay Yunikawa’s message; and also hash out exactly what would be done with the Book of Secrets in the one week period that they would have it with them, before needing to turn it over to Yunikawa.

As such, everyone, including Jenna the Samurai-ko and the strange Korean merchant (for some reason) found themselves in the home of Yuki’s Mother for an early lunch engagement to discuss that and other matters.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 14, 2014, 06:12:36 pm
Yuki takes out the note that the spirit wrote and places it on the table, allowing others to read it.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 14, 2014, 06:23:44 pm
Rai looks around the table and says, "Good thing we stopped kirito. I have a feeling with uncle not around those demons wouldn't take kindly to trespassers. We need to copy that book though."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 14, 2014, 06:26:56 pm
"Yeah, the fool would have handed over the book of the gods to the ONI. That would have been bad." Roka says simply.

"As for copying the book, it would take us ages to copy it, and none of us are proficient in that kind of thing. We'd have to hire someone to copy it." Roka says, stroking his goatee. He then thinks for a moment.

"Man, Sendai changed in the years we were gone. Crazy."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 14, 2014, 06:29:59 pm
"Yeah, the fool would have handed over the book of the gods to the ONI. That would have been bad." Roka says simply.

"As for copying the book, it would take us ages to copy it, and none of us are proficient in that kind of thing. We'd have to hire someone to copy it." Roka says, stroking his goatee. He then thinks for a moment.

"Man, Sendai changed in the years we were gone. Crazy."

Rai nods his head and says, "We can't regain what time we have lost. This was a serious setback to all our plans. Roka have you found your old contacts yet?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 14, 2014, 06:32:04 pm
"The Oni would have taken the Book from the Priest and given it to Yunikawa; but not before they tried to get everything out of it they could for themselves first," Jenna says.

"But as for lost time, perhaps that is blessing in disguise, as you have likely been forgotten (or rather dismissed) by the gods for stealing their book by now..."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 14, 2014, 06:36:07 pm
"I'm not sure we should make a copy for ourselves. We probably shouldn't meddle with the knowledge of the Gods too much..." Yuki remarks.

"I'll be taking the book of secrets to be copied by the occult society after our meeting here though."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 14, 2014, 06:44:22 pm
"So, Yunikawa is coming in a week... Gosh, I wonder how old he's gotten" Udo says, sighing. "Eight years..." Hopefully the Gods really did forget, "Argh, this is really kind of weird haha."

Udo nods, "Korean guy, what's up with you?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 14, 2014, 06:46:47 pm
Quote
Rai nods his head and says, "We can't regain what time we have lost. This was a serious setback to all our plans. Roka have you found your old contacts yet?"

"Most of them. Oddly enough, I haven't seen Yone. The rest flocked to me instantly." Roka says.
"I'm not sure we should make a copy for ourselves. We probably shouldn't meddle with the knowledge of the Gods too much..." Yuki remarks.

"I'll be taking the book of secrets to be copied by the occult society after our meeting here though."

"Yes, that much is guaranteed." Roka says, nodding.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 14, 2014, 07:01:00 pm
Quote
Udo nods, "Korean guy, what's up with you?"

"Hungry as always. I think you guys try to starve me whenever you can. But aside from that, I am great. Who is this uncle guy? I remember this book. Oh yeah, ive been working on my disguises what do you think?"

(Spend surge to activate flawless disguise technique and pretend to be Roka)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 15, 2014, 05:13:54 pm
"You can always just go to a restauruant or something, I don't think you could expect anyone here to feed you..." Udo replies, raising an eyebrow. He just sort of watches the man blankly, kind of confused.

"Oh yeah, I still need to thank Yone for bringing back Yoshi, hopefully we can find her."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 15, 2014, 07:20:20 pm
Thank you Roka. I think we need to discuss the significance of our old allies being in the temple of the Gods.." Rai says.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 15, 2014, 07:55:33 pm
Thank you Roka. I think we need to discuss the significance of our old allies being in the temple of the Gods.." Rai says.

"We'll talk to the WuJen about that. We won't enable to figure out anything without him."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 15, 2014, 08:02:24 pm
"As for copying the book, it would take us ages to copy it, and none of us are proficient in that kind of thing. We'd have to hire someone to copy it." Roka says, stroking his goatee. He then thinks for a moment.

"I might be able to do it quickly, it would depend on how long it takes me to read it since it is quite thick. But it's possible I could get some basic translations out of it before we send the book to be copied by the professionals."

 Miya speaks up as she moves to give a few quick looks into the strange book.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 16, 2014, 05:04:58 pm
"You can always just go to a restauruant or something, I don't think you could expect anyone here to feed you..." Udo replies, raising an eyebrow. He just sort of watches the man blankly, kind of confused.

"Oh yeah, I still need to thank Yone for bringing back Yoshi, hopefully we can find her."

I've never been here before. I wouldnt even know what a restaurant looks line in this town. Any good fishing spots? I could catch my own food. I am a decently skilled fisherman and sailor."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 16, 2014, 05:51:25 pm
"Sendai's a port city." Roka says, simply, before turning to Yuki.

"I am fairly certain we all have personal business to tend to at the moment, so all this discussion is tiring me. Yuki, I want you to hand the book to the Order, and have them copy it. After that, if Miya wishes, she can spend the time deciphering the book. It may make the WuJen's job easier."

"We have one week(ish) until we take Kioko home. Figure out what you want to do during this period. Just don't reveal Kirito's true story."

"Any questions?" Roka asks, as he wipes the sweat off his brow.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 16, 2014, 05:55:52 pm
"Anyone up for a boat ride? Maybe a race? Id love to see some water after spending all tthat time in the mountains. Furthermore for rescuing me I'd like to treat you all to a nice seafood dinner." He looks around at the party and then stands up.

"Any takers meet me at the port then."

He bows to his comrades and departs for the port to secure a decent fishing or sailing vessel

---

Rai meanwhile, nods to his compatirats and says, "Agreed." He then walks out and quickly catches to the odd Korean man...

---

Continued in the Recuiting Allies thread (http://www.bountyheadbebop.com/forum/index.php?topic=966.0).
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 16, 2014, 06:04:47 pm
"Sendai's a port city." Roka says, simply, before turning to Yuki.

"I am fairly certain we all have personal business to tend to at the moment, so all this discussion is tiring me. Yuki, I want you to hand the book to the Order, and have them copy it. After that, if Miya wishes, she can spend the time deciphering the book. It may make the WuJen's job easier."

"We have one week(ish) until we take Kioko home. Figure out what you want to do during this period. Just don't reveal Kirito's true story."

"Any questions?" Roka asks, as he wipes the sweat off his brow.

Yuki tilts her head at Roka, mildly confused.

"Well, that was the plan already... So okay." She replies.

She then looks uneasily at Miya, wondering why she would want to know what the book of secrets says.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 16, 2014, 06:19:48 pm
"Anyone up for a boat ride? Maybe a race? Id love to see some water after spending all tthat time in the mountains. Furthermore for rescuing me I'd like to treat you all to a nice seafood dinner." He looks around at the party and then stands up.

"Any takers meet me at the port then."

He bows to his comrades and departs for the port to secure a decent fishing or sailing vessel

".... Yeah, there's no chance I'd go to a party run by him. Which begs the question, do we even care if he returns to his time period?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 16, 2014, 06:24:14 pm
"It's definitely not our responsibility..." Udo murmurs, thinking about it. "But if we can send Kioko back sorta then we might as well send Lee-Korean guy back."

He nods, "Anyways, I think I'll be heading off to Mt. Fuji. Should be a 4 day trip tops, so I'll be back in time" Udo says, smiling.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 16, 2014, 08:34:17 pm
Yuki tilts her head at Roka, mildly confused.

"Well, that was the plan already... So okay." She replies.

She then looks uneasily at Miya, wondering why she would want to know what the book of secrets says.

Miya continues to leaf through the book but skips back to an earlier page and compares the two.
 "Interesting, not that I can read it yet but there are some patterns in the book. Maybe they can help me translate it if you guys want me too. I wouldn't mind committing this book to memory."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 18, 2014, 12:23:09 pm
"I can take care of the Korean for you," Jenna winks with a lick of her lips. Then feigning shock at the looks she gets, she adds facetiously, "What? It's not like anyone would actually miss him..."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 18, 2014, 12:26:24 pm
"I can take care of the Korean for you," Jenna winks with a lick of her lips. Then feigning shock at the looks she gets, she adds facetiously, "What? It's not like anyone would actually miss him..."
Roka simply shakes his head and sighs.
"That actually remind me. I'll need your help tonight. Probably." Roka says.
"It's definitely not our responsibility..." Udo murmurs, thinking about it. "But if we can send Kioko back sorta then we might as well send Lee-Korean guy back."

He nods, "Anyways, I think I'll be heading off to Mt. Fuji. Should be a 4 day trip tops, so I'll be back in time" Udo says, smiling.

".... Udo, Mt. Fugi is near Edo. That's at least a weeks trip, by boat. How the hell are you getting there and back in 4 days?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 18, 2014, 12:42:41 pm
".... Udo, Mt. Fugi is near Edo. That's at least a weeks trip, by boat. How the hell are you getting there and back in 4 days?"
"I'm not going by boat, or by horse for that matter." Udo replies, his eyes aiming upwards.

"But still, are we gonna do anything about Lee-Korean guy?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 18, 2014, 12:46:14 pm
"Anything for you tiger!" Jenna replies to Roka.

Then to Udo, she says, "Let Yunikawa send him back like he will the kid."

She then seems to smile inwardly at the thought, as if finding a subtle humor in what she had just said.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 18, 2014, 12:47:11 pm
"I'm not going by boat, or by horse for that matter." Udo replies, his eyes aiming upwards.

"But still, are we gonna do anything about Lee-Korean guy?"

"We'll take him to the WuJen, and see what he says. If he doesn't care, we'll dump him with the Historians." Roka says, shrugging.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 18, 2014, 01:06:36 pm
Then to Udo, she says, "Let Yunikawa send him back like he will the kid."

She then seems to smile inwardly at the thought, as if finding a subtle humor in what she had just said.
"Only difference is that, uhh..." Kioko's dead, I think, he glances at Kioko, "Umm, yeah. Nevermind haha."

Udo shrugs with as light frown.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 21, 2014, 06:39:52 pm
9th Day of Spring, 1306
Visiting Dignitaries


The week had gone by faster than anyone would have liked.

Miya had spent a day reading and memorizing the massive tome of cryptic gibberish that was the Book of Secrets, before Yuki took it to the Order of Arcanum for them to see and make a copy of.

Almost immediately, one of the Wu-Jen tried to make a Duplicate of the book, but the spell failed – indicating that a Magical Duplicate would never be possible. Fortunately, one of the Senior Scribes of the Order knew the Ink Flowing Transcription method and was able to transcribe the entire book of secrets at an alarmingly fast pace – finishing the four hundred page plus book in just under thirty minutes.

The replica was ink on paper, rather than the original’s embroidered threads on silk, but was in all other regards a perfect duplicate.

Thanking Yuki for her service to Sendai and the Order of Arcanum, they handed the original tome back to her for delivery to Yunikawa and took their copy into the depths of the Inner Sanctum to begin working on unlocking its secrets.

As Yuki left the Grand Hall of Wu-Jen, she realized that once again, they had given her nothing for the service she had just rendered (and wondered if they ever would).

Arriving home, Yuki turned the book over to Miya (who would take a crack at decrypting it) and then decided to just relax and spend time with her mother and little Kioko, as the poor little fox girl would be leaving them in such a short time.

In turn, little Kioko showed Yuki, Miya, and Yuki’s Mother something special the next day, taking them to the garden out behind the family home with a sweet rice cake.

Trotting ahead and out into the garden, Kioko placed the rice cake on the ground, bowed, and then ran back over to the others to hold Yuki and Miya’s hands.

“See? I told you!” Kioko said with a marked satisfaction, as she peered into the garden.

Then, in the garden, a large number of radish spirits suddenly manifested visibly around the rice cake and seemed to be talking amongst themselves excitedly – gesturing here and there with their tiny sprout-like arms.

After a moment, they came to some kind of agreement and picking up the rice cake, marched in a solemn parade around the garden, complete with a drummer and two gongs.

After crossing the garden back and forth three times, they vanished again, taking the rice cake with them back into the Spirit World.

“Well, I’ll be…” Yuki’s Mother marveled, “what a prestigious honor to actually see them with the naked eye!”

---

For Miya’s part, pouring obsessively over each and every page of the Book of Secrets with her Break the Code technique, she actually began to see a pattern slowly emerging – and after working on it for nearly six sleepless days and nights, suddenly found some meaning within the text.

At first it appeared over and over again, hidden in each page – a three character alphanumeric (number, number, letter). Then, taking the more than four hundred alphanumerics and looking at them collectively, Miya found that by applying certain logarithms, a coherent sentence structure began to unfold.

Using this new information, the pages of the Book of Secrets revealed a set of sixty Shinto prayers hidden within, fourteen of which were currently unknown. The prayers themselves however, including the unknown ones, were by no means extraordinary – It seemed a rather huge waste of effort to bother encoding such widely available information.

There had to be more – the Shinto prayers had to represent a false code, written into the book to mislead those who would try to decrypt it. It was absolutely maddening! And time had run out, as Yunikawa would be coming for the book on the morrow…

---

As this went on, Roka spent the week looking up old contacts, who all seemed overjoyed to find that he was still alive – especially those of the feminine persuasion. The one person he was unable to see in that time however was his old friend Yone, who as far as he could tell, was some sort of big shot in the underground circle now-a-days – maybe even Yakuza Boss of Sendai if all the rumors where true.

He did manage to find Yone’s brother, Toru Ishida, however – who promised to pass word to Yone that Roka wanted to catch up with her sometime.

Having re-established pretty much of all his old ties, Roka then found himself dwelling on his ill-fated desire to somehow establish himself over Lilitu the Succubus. With Jenna’s ability to control minds and his newly found talent for telling outrageously compelling lies, he figured that now was a good a time as any to give it a try.

It cost a hefty sum and a few underworld favors to find an evilly aligned priest willing to summon a demon and give control of it to someone else; but there Roka was, with Jenna the Vampire Samurai-ko, Yuma the Priest of Sorrows, and Lilitu the voluptuous sex demon of Roka’s erotic haunted dreams.

It promised to be one hell of a night, regardless – and it certainly was – until it all went horribly south, thanks to Jenna getting a little too aroused by the goings on and drinking Yuma the Priest of Sorrows dry in a vampiristic blood frenzy.

When all was said and done, Roka was quite lucky that Jenna didn’t turn on him too and was actually saved by Lilitu’s Mind Control – which she used to calm the vampire back down and then sent her off to dispose of the body.

The rest of the evening was then spent alone with Lilitu in the throes of unadulterated ecstasy – once again ruining any hopes of Roka enjoying normal sex ever again…

---

Udo meanwhile, spent the week on a trip to Mount Fuji in hopes of finding a dragon or some other magnificent creature there. As it turned out, he was actually the most unusual thing to be seen there – arriving by air in the form of a great Pterodactyl.

Alighting on the rim of the sleeping volcano, Udo looked down into the basin to find nothing out of the ordinary.

Then activating Spirit Sight, he managed to spot a small cairn of piled stones not too far from where he was. Heading over and checking it out, he realized that the cairn only existed in the Spirit World and that he could not interact with it from the Physical side.

There was however, a small silver placard on the cairn with a single ancient word written on it in Old Realm – ‘Desolikus’ – though it held no special meaning to Udo.

Searching around the rim of the volcano further, Udo discovered four more cairns of similar design – each in the Spirit World only, and set out evenly along the periphery of the volcanoe’s rim from each other.

Like the first, they each had a single Old Realm word inscribed on a silver placard. In total, the five cairns read: Desolikus; Infernumis; Abysmael; Umbrunus; and Lothorum.

Having found all that the top of Mount Fuji had to offer, Udo went down the mountain and discovered a small village where he could rest before having to make his flight back to Sendai. While there, her met and spoke with some of the monks that revered the sacred mountain and asked them about the words he had seen.

None of them could say what the words were, but reiterated over and over again that Mount Fuji was the realm of slumbering gods and that they should not be disturbed by mortals nosing around where they did not belong.

The next day, Udo left Mount Fuji and (in Pterodactyl form), flew back to Sendai – arriving the day before Yunikawa was set to arrive.

---

During this same time, Rai and Lee, spent the week talking about the past and current states of Nippon and making sure Lee knew the proper protocols in current society. For now, Lee really had nowhere else to turn, and having a ‘noble born’ as an ally was not a gift to turn down lightly.

He also learned a little about the Wu-Jen Yunikawa; and that if anyone had the power to return him to his own time, it would be Yunikawa.

For Rai’s part, he spent part of the week trying to re-connect with some of his old allies, with mixed success. It seemed that while they were aware of his return and glad for it immeasurably, they were also sad to report that the unification of Ninja Clans had stalled with his disappearance (almost nine years ago) and then fell apart almost completely after the death of the Nezumi Ninja Shaman Split-Tooth.

In fact, Ninja Master Kai Shugyo and Nezumi Ninja Master Thorn were currently adversarial towards each other and all the fighting over the years had torn down and burned many of the bridges that Split-Tooth had spent his life trying to establish.

There were some serious repairs that needed to be made to these ‘bridges’ if the Ninja would ever rise to the position necessary to restore Nippon to its people.

And it now looked like it was up to Rai to step up and try to make that happen himself (at least in the proper circles for now)…

---

‘Uncle’ Yunikawa meanwhile, had come back into Sendai late in the afternoon of the 2nd, as he had said he would. Traveling with his three beautiful Samurai-ko and a large chest carried on a litter, he had been seen entering the home of the Chief Magistrate.

Jenna meanwhile, explained to Roka that she had to go now, and went without any further words to the Chief Magistrate’s house to rejoin her old master inside.

As for the Samurai, they had all gathered nearby, expecting to be summoned into the meeting with Yunikawa and Chief Magistrate Saito, but that moment never came.

Perplexed, and a little worried about their future standing in Sendai, the Samurai were met a few hours later by a messenger of the Chief Magistrate, relaying that Master Kenjiro Yunikawa would be on his way to the home of Akiko Shirahata (Yuki’s Mother) shortly, and that the Samurai and Korean Lee should all meet him there for a late dinner. Further, upon conclusion of Yunikawa’s business with the Chief Magistrate, riders would be sent to Edo to consult with the Daimyo of the Samurai’s future in Sendai.

With daylight waning, the Samurai and Lee all headed out to the Zen Archery School together, to arrive at the home of Yuki’s mother Akiko Shirahata.

No sooner had they got there however, that it immediately became clear that something was amiss!

Yuki’s Mother and little Kioko were nowhere in sight and the lights of the house were completely dark. It would not at all be like Headmistress Akiko to forget such a momentous appointment and bring shame and dishonor upon herself and her family name in so doing.

Then, as everyone approached to see what was going on, the door to the estate suddenly creaked open and a bloody hand flopped out of the darkness!

This, and only a few minutes before Master Yunikawa would arrive…
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 21, 2014, 07:20:38 pm
"What the hell?" Roka asks, shocked, as he rushes into the house.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 21, 2014, 07:36:12 pm
Yuki rushes in behind Roka, keeping silent.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 21, 2014, 07:39:04 pm
Udo stares at it, most definitely creeped out. He considers poking it (but doesn't) before hurrying into the house.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 21, 2014, 07:44:35 pm
Roka, Yuki, and Udo cautiously approach the door and slowly push it open. They and the rest of the Samurai behind them can see just into the front room; which is dimly illuminated by the rising moonlight filtering in from behind.

Lying on a blood soaked floor is the headless body of the house servant with nearly two dozen stab wounds to the back. Scoring marks in the floor below the neckline indicate that the head has been removed after the body had fallen to the ground – by a back and forth sawing motion with a short blade.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 21, 2014, 07:53:00 pm
Yuki pulls out her bow in anticipation of a fight.

"Kioko!? Mom?!" She yells into the dark house, hoping for some sort of response.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 21, 2014, 07:57:40 pm
Glancing around, Udo activates danger sense as he draws his Demon-Naginata, as well as turning on a lantern.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 21, 2014, 08:49:03 pm
Yuki pulls out her bow in anticipation of a fight.

"Kioko!? Mom?!" She yells into the dark house, hoping for some sort of response.

"Yuki, quiet. If they are in danger then we must be careful in how we proceed."
 Miya pulls out her bow as well but keeps a hand of Yuki's shoulder to hold her from running inside and to provide comfort to her friend in this dangerous time.

She looks inside the dark house from the crack in the door and with her powerful night-vision tries to see anything unusual inside.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 21, 2014, 09:16:31 pm
"Shit. Everyone, get behind me." Roka says, moving foward and looking around, though he automatically activates his amaizing celerity, burning a ki point.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 21, 2014, 09:35:23 pm
Lee does as instructed but pulls his Great bow off of his back and readies an arrow silently following Roka, but staying far enough back he would be effective to loose an arrow in battle..
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 21, 2014, 09:50:11 pm
"Shit. Everyone, get behind me." Roka says, moving foward and looking around, though he automatically activates his amaizing celerity, burning a ki point.

Miya stays by Yuki but tries to lightly pull her back a little farther so she is not so close to the door.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 22, 2014, 01:44:32 am
Rai moves directly behind roka being the one of the few in the company that could use his weapons easily in close quarters. He takes out his enchanted chain scythe, he also prepares to throw knives and wishpers to roka, "If we come to a door we should make sure our campannes have a clear line of sight to fire if need be.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 22, 2014, 05:13:29 pm
In spite of Yuki calling for her mother and Kioko, all remained deathly quiet.

Using their various talents and supernatural senses, the Samurai could not see or sense anyone in the front room. From where they stood, they could see that there had been a struggle of some sort before the servant had been taken down – as lots of things in the room are knocked over and upturned – leading one to believe that the servant may have attempted to flee the house before being killed...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 22, 2014, 05:38:56 pm
Worried now, Yuki pulls out her lopan and casts divine location, to figure out the direction of Kioko.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 22, 2014, 05:49:25 pm
When Yuki looks at her lopan, she sees not one, but two lines.

One heads west, toward the back of the house; while the other heads north-by-north-east (which would correlate with the direction of the Naga Temple in the Spirit World).
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 22, 2014, 05:51:22 pm
Seeing the party moving into the house, Lee uses his skills in stealth to move silently around the outside of the house looking for anything out of place. If he has time he will set up a few traps around the perimeter to go off if disturbed (make a sound like glass breaking, a bottle rolling, bell dinging etc) that will warn you the group of anyone sneaking up on them. These will be very simple traps and shouldnt take but mere seconds to improvise. He will then rejoin the party as quickly as possible unless attacked or interrupted.

surge for spirit arrows and barb (fire) just incase
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 22, 2014, 05:55:51 pm
Lee is able to move silently around the outside of the house, placing a few simple signal snares as he goes. Arriving at the far side the grounds, he finds nothing out of the ordinary there, except that a single door in the back of the house has been carelessly left wide open...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 22, 2014, 05:58:38 pm
Udo just cautiously walks forward in the house, going through different rooms with his lantern out. If there was anything, he'd sense it.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 22, 2014, 06:34:28 pm
When Yuki looks at her lopan, she sees not one, but two lines.

One heads west, toward the back of the house; while the other heads north-by-north-east (which would correlate with the direction of the Naga Temple in the Spirit World).

Yuki cautiously makes her way to the back of the house, primarily because Miya seems to be preventing her from going any faster.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 22, 2014, 06:41:23 pm
"Roka, you want to take point and enter the house? We need to figure out what has happened as soon as possible."
 Miya lets go of Yuki and moves to whisper to Roka.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 22, 2014, 06:44:37 pm
Rai moves inside with all his senses on high alert. Following in behind Roka.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 22, 2014, 07:16:36 pm
Lee is able to move silently around the outside of the house, placing a few simple signal snares as he goes. Arriving at the far side the grounds, he finds nothing out of the ordinary there, except that a single door in the back of the house has been carelessly left wide open...

doubtful that this was an accident, better check it...
Lee continues to move silently towards the open door, using his perception he searches for signs of forced entry.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 22, 2014, 08:08:01 pm
"Roka, you want to take point and enter the house? We need to figure out what has happened as soon as possible."
 Miya lets go of Yuki and moves to whisper to Roka.

"Yup. You keep watch though." Roka says, nodding, and moving foward into the house, moving at a ridiculous speed with his Amaizing Celerity
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 22, 2014, 08:20:08 pm
"Yup. You keep watch though." Roka says, nodding, and moving foward into the house, moving at a ridiculous speed with his Amaizing Celerity

Miya notches an arrow and follows a safe distance away from Roka into the house so she can still get out of the close quarters if needed. She also puts on the White Kabuki Mask and uses it to help search for any clues of what has happened or anything out of the ordinary/what she remembered from her last visit.
(Use Eye of the Eagle for this too.)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 23, 2014, 04:36:48 pm
Finding nothing else in the front room, the investigation continued towards the rest of the house.

Cautiously moving through the home, everyone could see that there had been a terrible massacre recently. Blood was everywhere, splattered, smeared, and invariably in trails, leading to the headless bodies of three more servants – and each, as the first, having been ruthlessly stabbed to death before someone tediously sliced off their head.

Then to the back of the house, in the kitchen – where the evening meal had been in mid-preparation – a scene of horror. Amid the still cooking foodstuffs, someone has artistically arranged the dismembered body parts of the head cook, as if mockingly presenting them as part of the main course.

Further, the door exiting the kitchen stands open, leading out into the night air; while a trail of bloody footprints can be seen exiting through the door – and beyond, toward a small grove of cherry trees at the far side of the family garden out behind the Shirahata home.

---

Lee meanwhile, looked into the kitchen from the other side of the door, seeing the Samurai within and wisely making his presence known to avoid startling anyone and accidently getting his head removed by a jumpy Samurai.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 23, 2014, 04:46:34 pm
Roka continues to move forward towards the cherry tree, as he sees the blood.

"Miya, hold on to Yuki." Roka states, making sure Yuki doesn't rush ahead.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 23, 2014, 05:14:17 pm
Yuki silently follows Roka.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 23, 2014, 05:21:01 pm
Udo follows, not really sure what else he should do.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 23, 2014, 05:22:46 pm
"Wow, this is grim." Is all Lee can muster to say as he looks around the blood caked kitchen.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 23, 2014, 05:55:58 pm
"An attack of this level of brutality and horror." Rai whispers as they move, "There is no way this was done by ordinary humans. I am highly sucpious of demon invovlment."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 23, 2014, 06:31:02 pm
Lee having been reunited with the group responds to Rai. "Do you think maybe your gods are angry about this book ordeal involving your uncle?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 23, 2014, 07:45:29 pm
Lee having been reunited with the group responds to Rai. "Do you think maybe your gods are angry about this book ordeal involving your uncle?"

Rai responds, "The gods wouldn't needlessly kill all these servents. Also the retribution would have happened awhile ago or if they knew we were back it would have been directed towards us."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 23, 2014, 08:11:58 pm
"...Maybe it isn't over yet?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 24, 2014, 11:28:41 am
Out in the cherry grove, the petals flitted across the ground in the soft night breeze. This really would be a pleasant place in other circumstances.

As the Samurai moved forward, the sound of a little girl whimpering and of someone speaking suddenly caught their attention, as a clearing came into view. Lying in repose together in the clearing was a beautiful young noble woman with impossibly long sable hair, dressed in royal attire befitting an emperoress and Yuki’s Mother, who currently lay with her head cradled against the woman’s bosom.

Little Kioko meanwhile, was wrapped head-to-toe in an extension of the noble woman’s hair and hung from a branches of nearby cherry tree – visibly terrified and crying.

To everyone’s shock, Lady Shirahata’s clothing was covered in gore and she held a bloody knife, clutched tightly in one hand – to the point that the knuckles of her hand had gone white from the pressure of her grip. Aside from the hand holding the knife however, she was quite relaxed, and with her other hand caressed the noble woman’s arm as the fiendish thing delicately feasted off a silver platter – a platter now containing only three of the four heads of the slain servants.

“It is too bad you had no living family here my love.” the noble woman spoke with a strange hollow sounding voice, “Family is so much sweeter and I so savor the bones of children. And yet you had this one, of my own children, here with you – yet I don’t remember ever catching her. Strange…”

“But you shall be a tasty dessert when I am finished with you, won’t you?”

“I will my beloved,” Yuki’s Mother replied – clearly under some bizarre form of mind control.

"Yes, and we'll make the little one watch, so she will know to despair and spread the poison of fear throughout this land, ha ha ha!"

---

Looking at the scene through her Sorcerer’s Sight, Yuki could see that her mother’s mind was wrapped up in both Mind Control and Mental Illusions, and that she had lost quite a bit of her spirit energy to some sort of vampristic effect. In all though, she could tell that her mother was completely under the power of the terrible thing she lay next to – Kitsune – the demon-corrupted spirit – the nine-tailed man-eating fox in human guise.

This was the beast that had (or would in the far future) kill Kioko – the seducer of unsuspecting men and women alike and meddler in the affairs of rulers and emperors. Powerful she was; radiating brilliant and corrupted spirit energy like a goddess.

And Udo, though he could not see through the woman’s disguise, could tell with his Spirit Sight that this was a powerful spirit of some sort, radiating a dark and unholy aura.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 24, 2014, 01:43:39 pm
"Why are you here, Kitsune? Release my family!" Yuki angrily yells.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 24, 2014, 02:31:21 pm
"What is this?" the Kitsune asks with an amused tone.

Then speaking to Yuki's mother she scolds "Shame on you for not telling me that you had living children. It was clever of you to hide it from me, but I do love the surprise all the same."

"Now be a doll and go fetch her head for me."


"As you wish my love," Yuki's mother replies and gets up with the knife to start advancing on Yuki...

Yuki meanwhile, suddenly goes rigged with fear - but can see that the Kitsune has grabbed her mind with some form of mental control. Then all of the other Samurai abruptly disappear from Yuki's sight and she finds herself completely alone in the cherry grove with no one but her crazed mother there - stalking toward her with the bloody knife.

The rest of the Samurai meanwhile, can see Yuki just standing there, but she seems unable to see or hear them...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 24, 2014, 03:47:14 pm
Lee without hestitation, and well the fact he has no connection with anyone here carefully lines up a spirit arrow embued with the Fire elemental barb, he then realizes that if he ducks behind cover, Udo should be big enough to hide him, that he can activate assassin's misdirecting attack, so he that is exactly what he does, he also burns a luck point to make sure he rolls a 10 or better to crit on the evul mind controlling entity...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 24, 2014, 04:49:15 pm
Yuki bites her lip out of frustration with the current situation. She activates physical boast from her bow, then casts summon in order to try and get Yunikawa to arrive her to assist the samurai.

Yuki then spends a surge point in order to be able to dodge her mother's attack, unwilling to attack her.

"Mom, snap out of it! It's me, Yuki! Don't listen to that Kitsune, she's deceiving you!" She yells.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 24, 2014, 08:42:08 pm
"Shit its a spirt  I can't fight that easily but I can stop her mother, " rai thinks to himself.

He surges to up his will power and uses his misytic chain to trip Yuki's mom.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 24, 2014, 09:09:10 pm
Roka stays silent, as he slowly grows on strength, and spikes of ki grow over his hands, though he stares at the woman.

"Do not attack yet." Roka orders, and then looks at Miya.

"Grab Yuki and pull her away from her mother. Someone get Kioko out of that tree."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 24, 2014, 09:42:37 pm
Wide-eyed, and confused once again by all the wacky things they've encountered in the past 2 weeks (10 years?), Udo holds put his Naginata as he barks, "Stay... Stay away from the Shirahata family you... Evil spirit!"

Using an improvised entangle (if possible with an additional surge), Udo tries to get Kioko out of the tree putting her on the ground.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 24, 2014, 11:11:00 pm
"Do not attack yet." Roka orders, and then looks at Miya.
  "Grab Yuki and pull her away from her mother. Someone get Kioko out of that tree."

Miya seems to be drowned in memories as she begins to aim at the spirit. but upon hearing Roka's command she shakes it off and moves quickly over to Yuki; positioning herself between the two family members with the intent to allow no harm to either of them.

"Yuki, listen to me. We must get you to safety, we can not help your mother at this moment." She says this to Yuki as she pushes her backwards lightly.
 
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 25, 2014, 01:11:50 pm

Without hesitating (and to show his use to the Samurai), Lee fires his Spirit Fire Barb while using Assassin's Misdirecting Attack.

Everyone sees a fiery bolt fly out of the cherry trees from behind the Kitsune – to just miss her form – as the woman seemed to vanish away just before impact, to reform lying in repose with her head propped up on her hand, back on the branch of another cherry tree not too far away. Kioko meanwhile, still hung from the same branch she had before, still connected to the Kitsune by a long extension of her now wildly flicking head of hair.

Had this been an illusionary image? Uncanny Dodge? Or could the Kitsune teleport away at will?

The cherry tree that got hit with the bolt in the interim, burst into flames – lighting the grove with a bright flickering light.

“So assassins; I will make you pay for your trickery!” the Kitsune growls, “But first you will entertain me with your futile struggles ha ha ha!”

Yuki meanwhile, physically boosts herself and aligns fate and chance to summon Yunikawa – knowing that he’ll eventually come out here to the grove to find her – but not knowing if it will be soon enough to make a difference in their current situation.

As this goes on, Yuki’s mother lunges suddenly at Yuki and starts swinging the knife at her with surprising agility and quickness – though her face remains expressionless and detached as she does.

Unwilling to attack her own mother, Yuki just activates Uncanny Dodge and avoids all the blows – in spite of her body not quite moving right in its strange nightmare-like rigid state.

"Mom, snap out of it! It's me, Yuki! Don't listen to that Kitsune, she's deceiving you!" She yells.

Then a long chain flies out of nowhere and wraps around Lady Shirahata’s feet to yank tight and upend her.

Outside of Yuki’s Illusionary world meanwhile, Rai holds the other end of that chain.

For her part, Yuki’s Mother seems oblivious to the chain and struggles to crawl toward Yuki, still menacing with the knife.

Not far from Rai, Roka activates both Heavy Hitter and Ki Spikes and then directs Miya and the others – “Grab Yuki and pull her away from her mother. Someone get Kioko out of that tree.”

Miya seems to be drowned in memories as she begins to aim at the spirit. but upon hearing Roka's command, she shakes it off and moves quickly over to Yuki; positioning herself between the two family members with the intent to allow no harm to either of them.

"Yuki, listen to me. We must get you to safety,” she says; “we cannot help your mother at this moment."

Miya then pushes Yuki backwards lightly – to which Yuki sees an ugly Oni abruptly rise out of the ground in front of her, which begins shoving her backward toward a now open fire pit of brimstone directly behind her…

Udo then uses an improvised entangle to grow up the cherry tree’s roots out of the ground under Kioko to wrap around her and gently pull her down from the tree branch – the Kitsune’s hair meanwhile, does not let go and a sort of tug-of-war ensues between the two.

“Let’s make this more interesting,” the Kitsune then sneers from her elevated perch; and with a wave of her hand changes the world around all of the Samurai.

---

Lee suddenly finds himself thrust back in time and now standing in the midst of eight Chinese Raiders, right in the process of dragging his mother away from his family forever!

“Help me my son!” she cries as two of the vile men are manhandling her away.

---

Yuki’s world remains the same (an Oni shoving her towards a fiery pit and her mother trying to kill her), except that now, Kioko suddenly comes into view – hanging over a huge snake that abruptly slithers out from a hole and unhinges its jaws to begin swallowing the terrified girl from the feet up…

---

Rai is abruptly transported to the Court of the Daimyo in Sendai – facing the Daimyo and seven of his most elite Honor Guard.

“You have been found traitor to Sendai and the Emperor of Nippon!” The Daimyo accuses – “And now you die!”

With that, the heavily armed Samurai flood in to attack with their drawn swords, while the Daimyo transforms into a horrifying visage of dangling entrails from a floating severed head!

---

Roka meanwhile, now finds himself in the inner sanctum of the Naga Temple in the Spirit World, looking up at the naked body of the Wu-Jen Sakura – though Keitaro (thankfully) is nowhere to be seen.

Opening her eyes, Sakura pleads with Roka – “Only you can save me Roka…”

Compelled to move forward to reach for Sakura, Roka is stopped by Lilitu the Succubus.

“No Roka,” she says, “you are mine.”

Then Jenna and the other three Vampire Samurai-ko of Yunikawa appear and pull at Roka from another direction, “no, we want him!” they say.

“He is mine!” another voice joins in – and looking, Roka can see Yone also there in the chamber with the rest.

“Take me!” They all say in unison, falling over Roka seductively…

---

For Miya, she is suddenly transported to the bedchamber of the Daimyo – where she suddenly finds herself standing over the sleeping man in his bed. He is not aware of her presence and there are no guards in the room – just Miya and the sleeping fiend that ordered her family’s death and left her with the lifelong scars…

---

Lastly, Udo watches as the roots of his entangle begin to pull Kioko too hard – as she screams in pain and looks like she’s about to be torn in half!

Then they spring up under Udo and begin to wrap around his body and neck – threatening to not only immobilize him, but to choke the very life out of him as well!

That is also when he looks around and finds that the Kitsune and all of the other Samurai are gone – It’s just him and Kioko – and she’s about to die unless he does something fast!
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 25, 2014, 01:29:34 pm
"Agh!" Udo shouts, wincing. Using his hearthstone, he tries to get out of his own terrible predicament before immediately after trying to save Kioko with another improvised entangle, untangling her.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 25, 2014, 01:33:47 pm
Lee looks astoished "what the hell!" He surges to fire off a shot of raining stars and then throws his bow aroun his neck and tries to pull out his fans and activate the tsunami wave to wash all the chinese away...

"No one is going to take my mother!" After casting the wave he will lunge for his mother and try to hold onto her
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 25, 2014, 01:45:49 pm
Quote
Roka meanwhile, now finds himself in the inner sanctum of the Naga Temple in the Spirit World, looking up at the naked body of the Wu-Jen Sakura – though Keitaro (thankfully) is nowhere to be seen.

Opening her eyes, Sakura pleads with Roka – “Only you can save me Roka…”

Compelled to move forward to reach for Sakura, Roka is stopped by Lilitu the Succubus.

“No Roka,” she says, “you are mine.”

Then Jenna and the other three Vampire Samurai-ko of Yunikawa appear and pull at Roka from another direction, “no, we want him!” they say.

“He is mine!” another voice joins in – and looking, Roka can see Yone also there in the chamber with the rest.

“Take me!” They all say in unison, falling over Roka seductively…

Roka blinks a couple of times, looking around for a moment.

"... Uh, er..." Roka begins, confused, but, after looking at the women surrounding him, embraces the illusion.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 25, 2014, 04:48:38 pm
---
For Miya, she is suddenly transported to the bedchamber of the Daimyo – where she suddenly finds herself standing over the sleeping man in his bed. He is not aware of her presence and there are no guards in the room – just Miya and the sleeping fiend that ordered her family’s death and left her with the lifelong scars…
---

 Miya is momentarily disoriented as she looks around before realizing where she is.
She looks down at the man who ruined her life and begins to embrace the growing fire of rage inside her. A dark and utterly bloodthirsty look begins creeping onto her face as she smiles at the victory.
She pulls out an arrow and aims at the man before noticing something very disturbing. A nagging feeling that something is wrong appears in Miya.

Miya can't remember how she got here...

With such an obvious gap in her memory she is at a loss to explain how she got here and this proves to be very distracting to somebody with a memory like her own. She lowers her bow as she racks her mind to find how she got here.

Eventually she is unable to find a reason and the 'most recent' memory that she has was when she was at Yuki's house standing between her and her mother while they were stuck in a... a Illusion.
 Seeing no reason not to check for Illusions in the Daimyo's room. Who knows, maybe he has some special illusions in place to catch somebody in the act of trying to kill him.
But that nagging feeling bothers her as she pulls the ruby out.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 25, 2014, 07:38:56 pm
Realizing it's no use talking to her mother, Yuki spends a surge point to see through the illusion. After she can see what's really there, she uses killjoy ob the kitsune, followed by a karma drain. She then uses jinx to counter whatever the kitsune tries to do to counter her.

(Not that this will work lol)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 25, 2014, 07:42:13 pm
Rai knowing what they are facing figures this is all possibly an illusion caused by the fox spirit. Making sure he still keeps his hands clutched hoping he didn't let go of the chain so Yuki is not in danger. Since the attackers are not real they probably can't hurt him but an actual attack might be hidden by the illusion. Rai tries to surge to see past it as he calls out. "I know that Kitsume are use to meddling in the affairs of Nobles but to use illusions to hide yourself how cowardice. I am the last of the great line of Go-Uda. I can not allow myself to die to you measly spirit." He decides to dodge the attacks and use the chain that he knows is in between his hands to block attacks. (Defense defense.)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 25, 2014, 09:33:28 pm
In his nightmare, Udo surges to activate his heartstone of freedom and slips free of the roots trying to squeeze the life out of him.

He then uses entangle again, this time to pull directly at the long strands of hair wrapping Kioko, rather at her directly. The tactic seems to work and takes some pressure off the little girl – keeping her in one piece for the moment…

Then the ground abruptly opens up around Udo and he falls into a pit filled with attacking roots that grasp and lash at him from all directions for 5 Damage!

Then, for some reason, their touch causes his flesh to burn with a fiery pain for 22 more Damage (Luck for half) – following which, the ground closes up on him and crushes him for another 13 Damage (though his armor manages to soak some of it).

Then the most disturbing sound is heard – the scream of a little Kioko – as she is torn in half and killed – in spite of everything Udo did to try to save her!

---

Meanwhile, Lee surges to fire off a Rain of Shooting Stars and watches as the Chinese men around him are saturated with golden points of streaking light for 22 Damage Each! In his mind, they seem to scream out with a shrill cry.

Still all standing however, Lee pulls out his fans and activates the Tsunami Wave to wash all the Chinese away – causing an eight foot high, twelve foot wide, wave of saltwater that slams into half of them for 13 Stun Damage – pushing them back thirty five feet and knocking them prone in the process!

Then Surging again, he lunges for his mother and grabs her up, not letting go!

---

Roka, embracing his Illusion, lets the women begin to shower him with all their pleasures and things seem to be going quite well – until they start to become jealous of each other – pulling at Roka suddenly from every direction – inadvertently clawing and scratching him in the process for 9 damage.

Then things get really strange, when they begin biting at him and tearing his skin off in huge chunks with their teeth – causing 22 Damage (Luck for half)!

A moment later, they swarm over Roka and crush him under their unnaturally heavy bodies for another 13 Damage (though his armor soak most of it).

In the back of his mind, Roka hears a child scream out and die…

---

Rai meanwhile, tries to ignore the charging Samurai in his illusion, dodging most of their attacks but taking a total of 8 Damage from small nicks and cuts. As he boldly proclaims his birthright, the surrounding Samurai skewer him though the body from all sides for 22 Damage (Luck for half)!

As he learns that the illusion really can hurt him, the Pennagolan Daimyo wraps its entrails around Rai’s neck and chokes him for another 13 Damage…

In the back of his mind, Rai also hears a child scream out and die…

---

Realizing it's no use talking to her mother, Yuki spends a surge point to see through the illusion.

That’s when she sees that Udo has entangled her feet with roots (immobilizing her) and a Rain of Shooting Stars comes crashing down on her and the rest of the Samurai in the cherry grove – wounding everyone significantly! 22 Damage (Luck for half)

In horror, Yuki sees Kioko riddled with the glowing streaks of light – that tear into her and her little spirit familiar! Kioko and the little cloud creature cry out in a bloody shriek and then fade away into nothingness!

The Kitsune meanwhile, has flitted into another tree and laughs at the scene with wicked glee.

Appalled at what just happened, Yuki hits the Kitsune with Killjoy and Karma Drain – stealing 4 luck points from the vile fiend.

She then stands by to use Jinx on the monster the moment she tries anything.

---

As this all goes on, Miya in her own Illusion, pulls the ruby out and activates it to see what is illusionary and what is real.

She then sees all the Samurai still in the cherry grove with the Kitsune – just as Lee’s Rain of Shooting Stars pounds into everyone (including her for 22 Damage/Luck for half) – followed by a Tsunami Wave that hits Udo, Roka, and Rai.

Unfortunately, Miya also sees Kioko and the little spirit familiar destroyed by Lee’s attack and the laughing Kitsune sadistically observing the fiasco as it unfolds.

Lee then pounces on Yuki’s mother – holding her in a grapple – while Rai still has her feet wrapped in his chain.

Miya meanwhile, spends a Surge point and casts the Shared Illusions Spell that she got from Yunikawa; superimposing a vision of what is really going on inside each Samurai (and Lady Shirahata’s) minds.

The Samurai can now see both the illusions and what is really happening to them – seeing that Kioko is now gone and the Kitsune has yet to pay a cent for all the mayhem it has been causing…

---

OOC – On to the next Round...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 25, 2014, 10:53:00 pm
Roka roars loudly, attempting to throw off the women on him, and glares at the Noble-woman.

"I'm going to farking end you." He states, raising his fist, as he looks at his team.

"Drain her, Yuki And you, Udo. Hold her in place as I kill her." He orders simply, giving Yuki and Udo 2 surge points to act upon his order, and then, in a blink, moves at the Kitsune who is hopefully in Udo's grapple, slamming his Ki Spike at her, with a grievous injury attack.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 25, 2014, 10:54:26 pm
"Kioko!" Udo yells out before Miya shows him the correct illusion. Shaking his head furiously and snarling at the Kitsune, he realizes that he accidentally entrapped Yuki, so he uses one of Roka's surges to release the plants. Suddenly, Udo entire body begins to change. Hair grows in more places than he'd like, bone structure becoming enlarged...

With a mighty roar, Giant Silverback Udo uses an additional surge point to take extra actions (since it would normally take a full round), trying to grab the Kitsune and slamming her into the ground, hopefully.

With Roka's other additional surge, Udo will make sure to act first.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 25, 2014, 11:08:57 pm
Rai seeing his companions go apeshit, one in a quite literal sense, he decides to avoid further conflict considering how wounded he is.

(Go defensive Defensive)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 26, 2014, 11:41:28 am
"KIOKO!" Yuki yells, as she watches her get torn apart by the lights. Anger and sadness sweep through her, as she watches her adopted sister killed in front of her. She looks at Lee, laying on her mother in front of her, and directs her anger at him.

"WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU? WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT? AND GET OFF OF MY MOTHER!" She yells. As she prepares to enact her vengeance on the Korean, Roka diverts her attention back to the Kitsune. Looking at the evil spirit, Yuki remembers that Kioko will be back, because she too is a spirit. Realizing it could be disastrous if she ignores the Kitsune now, she decides to delay her revenge on Lee.

"If you hurt her, I'll kill you." Yuki says as calmly as she can to the korean, before turning her attention to the Kistune.

Using the surges Roka gave her, she casts curse on the Kitsune, and does another karma drain. Yuki then lets out a cry of anger, before using rapid shot and mutli-shot to shoot 4 arrows at the Kitsune. She then uses all of her surges to continually shoot arrows at the Kitsune, still using multi-shot. She also uses luck points to jinx any move the Kitsune tries to make, and to enhance her shots. She uses her silver arrows to attack the Kitsune.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 26, 2014, 02:16:39 pm
Lee coming to his senses literally shoves Yuki's mom away from him and scoots backwards as fast as he can. "But, you, you, mom? Oh my god, what have I done!?" He cowers away still in shock. [Defensive, defensive]
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 26, 2014, 04:50:38 pm
Moving quickly into the best possible position as she slips past anything in her path Miya aims at Kitsune with a fury in her eyes.

While she is moving she proceeds to attune her spirit to her arrows and bow, allowing her to generate arrows of a spiritual nature. She focuses on only attacking Kitsune.
Edit: Miya also 'accidently' positions herself to hit Roka and Udo in her attack.  ::) Jk

"You will die for the pain you have caused this family Demon!" Miya yells out in an angry voice.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 27, 2014, 07:19:08 pm
Rai ducks for cover, while Lee cowers away from Lady Shirahata, realizing his grave mistake, and then takes up a defensive position – watching both the Kitusne and the clearly upset Samurai simultaneously.

Then the roots around Yuki fall away at Udo’s beckon, as Udo transforms into a twelve foot tall, eight foot wide at the shoulder, giant gorilla and charges the Kitsune in the cherry tree.

The Kitsune however, flits away again and appears next to Yuki and her mother.

“If none of you are willing to enjoy my little mind plays,” the Kitsune says brusquely, “then perhaps some ‘live theater’ is in order.”

The Kitsune then speaks a Word of Power at Yuki and her Mother.

The word takes physical form as it leaves the Kitsune’s mouth, literally becoming the symbol that was spoken – ‘annihilation’ in Old Realm – and expanding exponentially as it goes forth – slams into the ground with a thunderous clap. Dirt and rocks shower from a fifteen foot wide crater that is left after the impact.

Both Yuki and her mother surge to activate Uncanny Dodge – escaping the blast before it engulfs them – though Lady Shirahata is immediately Fatigued by the effort; having had no further luck or surge to spend after the Kitsune had drained it all.

Yuki, in far better shape than her mother, Curses the Kitsune and Karma Drains four more Luck Points from the monster. She then Surges to unload 10 silver arrows at it, while Miya joins in, activating Spirit Arrows and aiming a shot at the Kitsune’s eye.

Yuki releases two arrows and Jinxes the Kitsune when it flits away as it has been doing the entire time. The Kitsunes successfully relocates ten feet further back. Two more arrows pass through where the Kitsune was a moment before – and yet another Jinx is countered.

Then the third volley of arrows and Yuki’s Jinx finally sticks; the Kitsune’s eye widening in surprise when she does not disappear out of the way.

Both of Yuki’s silver arrows slam into the noble woman’s chest for 17 and 24 Damage – bright red blood splattering her royal attire. Miya meanwhile, looses her Spirit Arrow at the same moment, realizing that this could be her one and only chance.

She watches in marked satisfaction as her streaking arrow punches right through the Kitsune’s eye and lodges deep in her head for 19 damage straight to Wounds.

“Aaaaiiee!” the Kitsune shrieks in pain, reeling back from the blow.

Yuki meanwhile, continues to fire, landing two more arrows for 15 and 19 Damage, before the Kitsune realizes what is going on and uses Uncanny Dodge to slip Yuki’s last Jinx and then flits back to what it thinks is a safe position behind some trees a ways away where Yuki can’t see it.

There it transforms in a crackling display of lightning into her true form – a horse-sized sinewy fox with nine bushy tails – and snapping her jaws ravenously as she claws the arrows out of her eye and body.

Unknown to the Kitsune, Udo is within leaping distance and surges to spring across the grove at the massive demon-fox – crash-landing down on top of her for 18 Damage and catching her in a Hold.

“Now Roka now!” Udo yells – though what the Samurai actually hear is “RWOAWR, SNARL WROAWRRR!!!”

Covering the distance with Amazing Celerity, Roka streaks at the Kitsune and slams a Ki Spike into the foul beast’s chest with Grievous injury technique!

The Kitsune takes 21 AP damage as the ribs in its chest shatter under the blow!

“How dare you bloody my beautiful fur!” the Kitsune howls at Roka (apparently not considering all the damage Yuki had just done to her). “You I will watch – and when you have achieved happiness and peace in this life, I will come to you… And you shall slay your own children and feed them to me!”

With that, the Kitsune once again flits away into the night sky, much farther this time, climbing higher and higher into the night sky with each step – before vanishing away as its silhouette crosses the moon.

Yuki and Miya both take a few free shots at the retreating monster, but she seems to be well out of range before anything can actually threaten her.

With the Kitsune’s retreat, all her power over the Samurai suddenly lifts and the Illusions end.

Lady Shirahata puts her head in her hand and begins to weep…

---

OOC Combat is over
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 27, 2014, 07:54:30 pm
Rai get out of the cover he was hiding behind and steps out clearly the most heavily wounded individual on the field as he sits down he says, "Good job everyone. Yuki you should probably confort your mother. Udo if you don't mind I need some assistance." *cough cough* As blood appears in his hand from the internal injuries he sustained in the fighting. Looking back up he says, "We should probably send the least injuryed person to get help as quickly as possible." Rai begins coughing up blood again. Clearly to tired for speaking.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 27, 2014, 08:01:56 pm
Miya moves to quickly help Rai as best she can.

 "Don't speak much, it will only make you cough more blood. UDO! We need your help over here."
As soon as somebody else arrives to help Rai Miya will head out of the house to go find help.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 27, 2014, 08:14:55 pm
Miya moves to quickly help Rai as best she can.

 "Don't speak much, it will only make you cough more blood. UDO! We need your help over here."
As soon as somebody else arrives to help Rai Miya will head out of the house to go find help.

Rai groans in pain and says, "I think I broke my everything. Please be careful where you touch."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 27, 2014, 08:18:42 pm
"Didn't I just say not to speak?"
 Miya says with a mixture of annoyance and slight amusment.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 27, 2014, 08:25:59 pm
Roka nods.

"Miya, head over and make sure the WuJen is stalled for the moment. Udo, drag Rai into the house, and take care of him there. Yuki, Lee, we need to talk, here." Roka states simply, looking at Lee, angrily.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 27, 2014, 08:32:06 pm
"Didn't I just say not to speak?"
 Miya says with a mixture of annoyance and slight amusment.

Rai nods his head and mimics a zipping motion.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 27, 2014, 08:40:59 pm
Mentally and physically eshausted, Yuki faints and falls to the ground, crying as she does.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 27, 2014, 09:35:35 pm
Roka sighs as Yuki falls down, and shakes his head.

"This is bad." He mutters quietly to himself, as he moves over to Yuki, and nods.

"Don't worry, we'll find Kioko in the spirit world and get her back. I promise, Yuki." Roka says, comfortingly.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 27, 2014, 09:52:21 pm
With the Kitsune gone, Udo relaxes slightly, shifting back to his naked human form. Glancing at the crying Shirahatas, he frowns. "It'll be okay, Yuki..."

Biting his lip, he goes on to patch up Rai (medical roll) and the others.

"Yo, Rai, do you want me to perform surgery on you or wait for Yunikawa?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 28, 2014, 12:43:07 am
"I... My mother, she was there! I know I saw her! She was being dragged off by 8 Chinese men. I... I am so sorry. My god, I was only trying to save my mother. I didnt mean this!" Lee is still semi cowering and wondering what he is suppose to be doing right now. He truly is sincere in his apologies...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 28, 2014, 08:43:14 am
"Miya, head over and make sure the WuJen is stalled for the moment."

Miya nods and looks at Yuki to make sure she is being taken care of.
 "I'll do that right away."

She then moves to find and delay 'Uncle'. When/If she finds him she will ask him if it would be possible to get another shared spell like before, saying it proven very useful.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 28, 2014, 06:31:20 pm
"I... My mother, she was there! I know I saw her! She was being dragged off by 8 Chinese men. I... I am so sorry. My god, I was only trying to save my mother. I didnt mean this!" Lee is still semi cowering and wondering what he is suppose to be doing right now. He truly is sincere in his apologies...

Roka doesn't look at Lee, beginning to move to the House.

"Ask forgiveness from the sister of the girl you killed." Roka simply states.

"And, err, Udo? Get some clothes." Roka adds, and then runs into the house and begins to clean up. (Amazing Celerity hopefully works.)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 28, 2014, 06:52:13 pm
Rai looks up at udo and says, "Could you put some clothes on?" rai procedes to groan and shifts his arm to the side and exposes a deep slash in his side. Feeling pretty numb at this point from all the pain goes, "Well theres your problem." as he giggles to himself.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 28, 2014, 07:00:03 pm
Udo looks around and mutters, "Uhh, do I have spares..."

If his backpack carries some spares, he'd put those on, shrugging. "Rai, that gash is pretty bad. You sure you don't want me to patch that up with surgery?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 29, 2014, 01:32:26 am
Udo looks around and mutters, "Uhh, do I have spares..."

If his backpack carries some spares, he'd put those on, shrugging. "Rai, that gash is pretty bad. You sure you don't want me to patch that up with surgery?"

Rai shakes his head and says, "I am sure that a pierst will be able to heal this more quickly then surgery."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 29, 2014, 08:10:34 am
Rai shakes his head and says, "I am sure that a pierst will be able to heal this more quickly then surgery."
But surgery's fun
"Well, I guess you'll have to wait in pain until a priest comes, or Yunikawa if he has that... Sphere thing that Sakura didn't have." Udo frowns, but gets up.

He looks at Mrs. Shirahata and sighs, not sure how to comfort someone aside from patting them on the back or something.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 29, 2014, 04:29:34 pm
As Roka speeds through the house, cleaning up, he comes to the point where he needs to decide what to do with the bodies.

“Wrap them in silk and lay them out in the cherry grove,” Lady Shirahata says, regaining her composure.

“I will go and open the Zen Archery School to receive Yunikawa, rather than have him enter this place before the taint of death can be removed from it.”

“You Samurai meet him and direct him there, while I procure some servants and a cook to attend to the evening.”

With that, Lady Sirihata leaves the house – still dressed in her blood-soaked clothing.

---

After cleaning and binding their wounds, the Samurai wake Yuki, explaining that her mother left to go open the Archery School.

Up on the road meanwhile, Miya is waiting for Yunikawa when two of his Samurai-ko suddenly step out from the shadows nearby – “What has proceeded here? What is the meaning of this?” They ask, looking at Miya’s wounds.

Yunikawa as yet, is nowhere to be seen…
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 29, 2014, 06:07:53 pm
"Nothing we couldn't handle. If need be, the rest of the samurai can explain it if they wish too. It's not my place."
 Miya gives a weary and weak smile. Perhaps she is still troubled by the earlier Illusion.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 29, 2014, 07:52:30 pm
Yuki remains silent after being woken back up. She waits at the front of the house to receive Yunikawa and inform him of the change in location.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 29, 2014, 09:09:26 pm
Rai bandaged but still not doing well moves to wait with Yuki. He slowly puts his hand on her shoulder and says, "You can go on ahead. I know you don't really want to deal with any of these right now." Trying to be comforting.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 29, 2014, 09:48:52 pm
Roka nods towards lady Shiratahara, and goes quickly to find some silk and wrap the bodies, and then pulls them to the cherry.

Then, Roka moves over towards the exit of the house, and looks towards Rai and Yuki.

"Yuki, we will get her back. If you want, we can arrange to jail Lee for what he did. Whatever you need, just ask." Roka says, smiling comfortingly, and then looks ahead.

"Alright, so we redirect Yukinawa to the school. Dammit, we should of been able to stop this. Damn." Roka mutters to himself.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 29, 2014, 10:22:23 pm
Roka nods towards lady Shiratahara, and goes quickly to find some silk and wrap the bodies, and then pulls them to the cherry.

Then, Roka moves over towards the exit of the house, and looks towards Rai and Yuki.

"Yuki, we will get her back. If you want, we can arrange to jail Lee for what he did. Whatever you need, just ask." Roka says, smiling comfortingly, and then looks ahead.

"Alright, so we redirect Yukinawa to the school. Dammit, we should of been able to stop this. Damn." Roka mutters to himself.

Rai shakes his head, and says solemly, "I am just as upset aas you are that we didn't come earlier. But we did everything we could at that moment and time to save Yuki's mother. That is all we could have done." He hopes Yuki doesn't want to imprision lee. He was under the effects of illusions and shouldn't have to be punished for it.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 29, 2014, 10:28:12 pm
Yuki glances at Rai but doesn't say anything in return. While she doesn't think it will help, she pulls out her lopan and tries to summon Kioko, hoping it will help guide her back to them.

When Roka arrives, Yuki thinks about what Roka says before answering.

"We shouldn't have brought him with us. Had he not been with us, we would have been fine." Yuki replies.

"We'll have to pay back the Kistune for what she did. She tortured my mother, killed the servants of our household, and made Kioko suffer through death twice now... I won't forgive her. She'll pay for what she's done to my family." Yuki says, clenching her fist.

"As for Lee... I don't know yet. The Korean didn't intend to harm us, or Kioko... but what he's done can't go unpunished."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 29, 2014, 10:47:50 pm

"We'll have to pay back the Kistune for what she did. She tortured my mother, killed the servants of our household, and made Kioko suffer through death twice now... I won't forgive her. She'll pay for what she's done to my family." Yuki says, clenching her fist.

"As for Lee... I don't know yet. The Korean didn't intend to harm us, or Kioko... but what he's done can't go unpunished."
Rai looks at Yuki seeing her darkside for the first time and says, "I agree we should fine and kill the Kistune for her crimes. How are we going to do that?  Also don't you think Lee has been punished enough? He has been thrust 400 years into a future where everyone he knows is dead and no one treats him like a person."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 29, 2014, 11:00:10 pm
"We ask Uncle Yunikawa" Yuki states, ignoring Rai's comment about Lee.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 30, 2014, 06:41:08 am
Quote
"We shouldn't have brought him with us. Had he not been with us, we would have been fine." Yuki replies.

"We'll have to pay back the Kistune for what she did. She tortured my mother, killed the servants of our household, and made Kioko suffer through death twice now... I won't forgive her. She'll pay for what she's done to my family." Yuki says, clenching her fist.

"As for Lee... I don't know yet. The Korean didn't intend to harm us, or Kioko... but what he's done can't go unpunished."

Roka nods.

"Don't worry. That bitch will be back. When she returns for my kid I'll let you know." Roka states, nodding.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 30, 2014, 03:49:40 pm
Rai looks at Yuki seeing her darkside for the first time and says, "I agree we should fine and kill the Kistune for her crimes. How are we going to do that?  Also don't you think Lee has been punished enough? He has been thrust 400 years into a future where everyone he knows is dead and no one treats him like a person."
"Uh, he's treated like a commoner?" Udo says, rubbing his temples. "Unsure what to do else now though, especially with Lee. Illusions or not, it was murder...ish."

"I dunno." He unhelpfully adds on, "But we should get to Yunikawa, maybe he can help us finish off that evil spirit, as well as explain to us is time-distortion thing that seems to be going on."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 30, 2014, 04:54:08 pm
Lee picks himself up and looks around, he take sin the carnage and devastation and commits it to memory. I will never forget this day, and if I live to encounter that kitsune again... well, Omens or not, I will defy the god creature and slit her throat.

He moves towards Rai slowly, clearly still upset, shaken, and now down right pissed off that he wasn't good enough to see that he was being toyed with.

"Rai, I..." He looks down at his feet for a moment. "I am sorry. Is there anything I can do to help?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 30, 2014, 05:04:29 pm
Lee picks himself up and looks around, he take sin the carnage and devastation and commits it to memory. I will never forget this day, and if I live to encounter that kitsune again... well, Omens or not, I will defy the god creature and slit her throat.

He moves towards Rai slowly, clearly still upset, shaken, and now down right pissed off that he wasn't good enough to see that he was being toyed with.

"Rai, I..." He looks down at his feet for a moment. "I am sorry. Is there anything I can do to help?"

Rai looks at him and says, "The best thing for you to do right now is to go to the archery school." (Assuming this was part of his teachings last week.)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 30, 2014, 05:10:44 pm
As Miya utterly refused to offer any helpful information, the Master Wu-Jen Yunikawa and his two other Samurai-ko (one of which is Jenna) walked onto the scene – the two Samurai-ko carrying a large iron chest on a litter between them.

“There was a battle,” one of the advanced vampire’s says to Yunikawa, “much death here, but all of it common blood. A powerful spirit left it’s mark.”

“Yes, I can see,” Yunikawa replied; then asked Miya – “do any of you need healing? Is Lady Shirahata all right?”

At that point, the rest of the Samurai came up from the house…
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 30, 2014, 06:08:19 pm
Roka suddenly sees the Wujen and moves up towards the group, and bows towards the man.

"Uncle, it is good to finally be able to fulfill our mission. There was a... Scuffle at the Shiratahara house, which we would have been able to easily dispatch on our own, had an ally not manage to open fire on us all. And..." Roka says, looking back at Yuki, and then begins to whisper.

"He killed Kioko, the little spirit girl."

"We are sorry for our failure in taking care of the girl, but Lady Shiratahara quickly went to prepare for you at the school of archery."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 30, 2014, 06:14:01 pm
"We're relocating to the Zen Archery School. Our home isn't fit to receive you at the moment. We were attacked by a kitsune. Everyone is okay, except for Kioko..." Yuki replies.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 30, 2014, 06:16:29 pm
"Kitsune? And the so-Kitsune was killed?" Yunikawa repeats with a slightly incensed look on his face.

"Well then, you had better go get her," he says, casting the Gate spell, "She will be very frightened if she finds herself alone in the Spirit World with no one to protect her..."

Looking, the Samurai can see that the Gate Yunikawa creates doesn't actually go anywhere - it just breaches the barrier between worlds - where on one side is Sendai and all of its buildings, and on the other, just desolate wilderness.

This is the same place the Samurai had come to when Kirito the Priest had first tried to Teleport them from the Naga Shrine to Sendai, while still in the Spirit World...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 30, 2014, 06:18:15 pm
Rai bows to uncle and says, "Udo manged to patch me up so that I could function but I still need some healing, Uncle."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 30, 2014, 06:19:20 pm
Roka nods, bowing, and immediately goes through the gate, and starts a search for Kioko.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 30, 2014, 06:20:52 pm
"Thank you Uncle Yunikawa." Yuki says with a short bow, quickly running through the gate to search for Kioko.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 30, 2014, 06:23:27 pm
"Of course," Yunikawa replies to Rai and begins casting Close Wounds on all who need it.

He then summons a Water Elemental and instructs it - "Go into the Shirahata home and sanitize it of all blood trace."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 30, 2014, 06:24:59 pm
"Many thanks, Uncle"
Udo bows quickly and follows through the spirit gate.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 30, 2014, 06:36:34 pm
Upon reaching the other side, Yuki will cast divine location to try and locate Kioko.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 30, 2014, 08:32:30 pm
"I am sorry for not telling you right away before. Thank you again."
 Miya says this to 'Uncle' before quickly following through the portal again to help Yuki.

Upon finding Yuki she says.
 "Don't worry Yuki, we will find Kioko. Trust me."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 30, 2014, 10:12:00 pm
"Uhm, Uncle, Sir? I would like to help get the girl. It is my fault she is dead..." He looks serious, but still emotionally distraught.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 30, 2014, 10:42:08 pm
Rai says, "Thank you Uncle. I will lead you to the archery school while the others search for Kioko." Rai says with a bow.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on May 31, 2014, 01:53:51 pm
The Master Wu-Jen Yunikawa regards Lee, looking him up and down as if trying to deduce where he came from and then replies – “Nonsense young man. The girl is a spirit; though she does not know that and I’ll warn you not to tell her so.”

Then to Rai’s offer to lead him to the Archery School, Yunikawa declines – “No, this will not take long. We will wait.”

On the other side of the Gate meanwhile, the Samurai spread out to look for Kioko.

Yuki activates Divine Location and sees a single line pointing in the direction of the Naga Shrine many miles north-by-northeast into the mountains. As she watches her Lopan however, she actually sees a second line abruptly form – pointing directly at Kioko as she suddenly materializes only a few feet away. As Yuki had seen before, there are once again two lines to Kioko/Sakura…

When Kioko appears, she looks around in bewilderment for a moment and then sees Yuki. Running to Yuki and wrapping her in her small arms, the little fox girl burst into tears – “Oh Yuki! She got Mama Shirahata! She made her hurt the people!”

Then a shrill squeak is heard and the little luminous spirit familiar thing materializes – only to fall out of the air and splat onto the ground in a cloud of dust. It too looks confused and shakes itself off, before floating into the air again and finding Kioko’s shoulder – where it snuggles in and coos softly, as if trying to console the little girl.

“Ah, now that you have her, bring her out quickly, Yunikawa says, looking in from the physical side of the Gate.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on May 31, 2014, 02:25:21 pm
"Dont worry Kioko, we took care of her." Yuki assures Kioko, hugging her back.

"Everyone's fine, dont worry. Come, I'll bring you to Mama Shirahata. " Yuki says, leading Kioko back through the gate.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 31, 2014, 02:30:37 pm
Rai nods his head and procedes to wait for the other samurai.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on May 31, 2014, 03:43:46 pm
Waiting for the others Lee wonders what he will say to the old man. Should he tell him about the past/future situation? "Rai" he whispers softly "Should I tell him about my situation?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on May 31, 2014, 03:47:09 pm
Waiting for the others Lee wonders what he will say to the old man. Should he tell him about the past/future situation? "Rai" he whispers softly "Should I tell him about my situation?"

Rai nods and says, "He will probably be the only one who could help you.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on May 31, 2014, 03:58:39 pm
"Dont worry Kioko, we took care of her." Yuki assures Kioko, hugging her back.

"Everyone's fine, dont worry. Come, I'll bring you to Mama Shirahata. " Yuki says, leading Kioko back through the gate.

Miya follows behind as she watches the two girls reconnect after the incident.
 She shakes her head in amusement as she walks through the gate.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on May 31, 2014, 08:54:56 pm
Udo considers running away and taking a look at Mt. Fuji from the spirit side of things, but decides that that would be really dumb rut now.

With a sigh, he nods at Kioko and goes through the portal again.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on May 31, 2014, 08:56:21 pm
"Dont worry Kioko, we took care of her." Yuki assures Kioko, hugging her back.

"Everyone's fine, dont worry. Come, I'll bring you to Mama Shirahata. " Yuki says, leading Kioko back through the gate.

"Thank the gods that we found you." Roka says with a smile, following the two back out.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 01, 2014, 12:33:33 pm
Once everyone had come back through the gate, Yunikawa closed it and then looked the Samurai over.

Their clothing was a mess – everyone but Kioko covered in blood.

“One moment,” Yunikawa said to the Samurai; “We can’t meet Lady Shirahata looking like this.”

He then cast Spiff and touching each Samuria and Lee in turn, instantly cleaned and polished their apparel.

“Better,” he said satisfied and then allowed Rai to lead him to the Zen Archery School.

There, Lady Shirahata had somehow procured another cook and servants.

Yuki recognized them as the staff of one of the neighboring noble families that her mother got along really well with.

Lady Shirihata was also dressed in a clean Kimono and a meal was quickly being prepared.

“Welcome, Master Yunikawa,” Lady Shirahata said, ushering everyone in – showing no hint in her demeanor that anything at all amiss had just happened tonight.

Kioko on the other hand, was not so stoic and rushed to Lady Shirahata to break down in tears once more.

Lady Shirahata took a moment to console the child and tell her that everything was now alright; that the Samurai had defeated the evil woman; and that Kioko should stay with her ‘sister’ Yuki, while Lady Shirahata attended to the dinner.

Kioko, still shaken by the evening, did as she was asked, but didn’t feel like eating. She just sat between Yuki and Miya and took the little spirit familiar off her shoulder to hold it close to the chest under her chin.

The meal was exceptionally fine, but it was hard to enjoy. It was more of a formality that needed to be gotten thorough, due to the overhanging sadness that its relocation to the Archery School represented.

When it was finally over, Yunikawa turned to the Samurai and asked – “May I have the Book?”
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 01, 2014, 12:36:05 pm
"Of course, Uncle." Roka says, nodding.

"Miya, can you hand the book over? And maybe even show your notes? It might make uncle's job easier." Roka says to Miya.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 01, 2014, 01:48:49 pm
Rai nodded his head to Miya telling her it was ok for her to hand the book over.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 01, 2014, 03:12:59 pm
Lee gorged himself. Not out of hunger but he just felt utterly empty inside. He waited for a chance to speak after everything was out of the way.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 01, 2014, 05:33:14 pm
Rai nodded his head to Miya telling her it was ok for her to hand the book over.

Miya nods and pulls out the book along with her thin stack of notes that she had made during the time she had to study it.
 
"Here is the book along with the notes I had produced from studying it earlier."
 She says this as she holds them out for 'Uncle' to take.

"If possible, I would like another chance to study the book if you will allow it."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 01, 2014, 06:13:45 pm
Yunikawa took the book and notes from Miya and looked the book over with a certain degree of reverence – “The sacred text of the Naga – The Book of Secrets,” he whispered in awe.

Opening the book and flipping through the silk pages, he noted the encryption within. Then comparing that to the notes Miya had written, closed the book and spoke – “This is what you worthy Samurai have quested for: a Book of Wisdom, Knowledge, and Arcane Secrets – though it is written in code. I must say Miya, I am very impressed with the start you have made decrypting it. Your notes will prove very useful to that end.”

“And I certainly won’t hesitate to enlist your insights, as needed.”

Then turning to Yuki, he added, “I shall apprize the Order of Arcanum of any progress I make decrypting the rest of it. I trust they shall do the same with their copy.”

Then turning to his Samurai-ko, Yunikawa nodded to the large iron chest on the litter. As he did so, one of the Samurai-ko opened it to reveal a cache of silver and jade bars – it was a substantial fortune worth.

“You have done well – here is your reward. Take it and do what good you can with it – my Samurai-ko are tired of carting it around anyway – ha ha!”

“Good! Then for the moment, I think our business here is done.”

Then with a gesture, Yunikawa dismissed his Borrowed Spells – and immediately, the Samurai felt a sharp prickling sensation run across their arms – reminiscent of all the long thin acupuncture needles they had endured when they had undergone the ritual of needles in Yunikawa’s mountain citadel.

In a flash – like a drop of water on a hot skillet – the knowledge of the spells they had borrowed from Yunikawa evaporated from their minds. All that is, except for a small spark of it, that seemed to linger in the back of Yuki’s mind for some strange reason…
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 01, 2014, 07:09:19 pm
"Uhm.... Master Yukinawa? Hi. Uhm, I am from Korea, 700 years ago. I was hoping that.... Maybe you could help explain why I was here? ...Or something?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 01, 2014, 07:30:14 pm
"Thank you, my lord." Roka says, with a deep bow, as he sees the fortune set in front of the group. He then glares sharply at Lee, and sighs.

"But, if you do not mind, we have many questions about our trip, and we would love to find answers to them. We.... Well... We found two of our former members in the spirit world, and... Well... They looked alive. It could not be. I witnessed their deaths with my own eyes."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 01, 2014, 07:51:43 pm
Udo glances at Roka and takes a deep breath, "Yes... Many, many questions, Uncle. From dreams to other experiences we've recently encountered"

He leans forward, and asks, "Uncle Yunikawa, what do you know of Mt. Fuji?" Udo goes on to mention the words he read and what else of note that he saw there.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 01, 2014, 08:43:51 pm
Yunikawa took the book and notes from Miya and looked the book over with a certain degree of reverence – “The sacred text of the Naga – The Book of Secrets,” he whispered in awe.

Opening the book and flipping through the silk pages, he noted the encryption within. Then comparing that to the notes Miya had written, closed the book and spoke – “This is what you worthy Samurai have quested for: a Book of Wisdom, Knowledge, and Arcane Secrets – though it is written in code. I must say Miya, I am very impressed with the start you have made decrypting it. Your notes will prove very useful to that end.”

“And I certainly won’t hesitate to enlist your insights, as needed.”

"Thank you. It was quite interesting to find the patterns that I have written in my notes."
 Miya gives a respectful bow before shivering from the strange 'needle' sensation she felt as the shared spell leaves her mind.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 01, 2014, 10:33:05 pm
"Thank you Uncle Yunikawa, but before you go there's something I'd like to ask." Yuki begins.

"When Rai and I arrived at the temple, one of the guardians greeted us by saying 'So, your elder brother has discovered the book of secrets'. Do you know what he meant by that?" She asks.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 02, 2014, 01:27:49 am
Rai nods his head and says, "I hope you use the book for the good of Nippon."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 02, 2014, 05:06:15 pm
“Questions…” Yunikawa says, as if mulling over the word – “Well of course, you all deserve as much, for your auspicious success in recovering the Book of Secrets!”

Turning to the Korean Lee, Yunikawa answers, “I’m afraid that you (and these fine Samurai here) have encountered one of the exceedingly rare time ripples that run through the barrier between the Physical and Sprit World.”

“In your journey, you must have at some point inadvertently wandered into the Spirit World through one of these ripples. It took you to another place in time – our time. Because you were with the Samurai when they exited, the residual chronistic energies that you carried caused a smaller harmonic resonance that distorted the Samurai’s own timeline (as you all came through the Spirit Barrier together) – though not to such a great extent as your own.”

“I am afraid that you are not going to be able to go back to your own time. The focus of time is so vast that currently, it takes the entire Earth and surrounding Spirit World to generate even these rare and random ripples. It is not something that mankind can currently control with any real accuracy beyond a few moments.”

“You must make this your world and live life now. I am sorry. But perhaps I can help take your mind off of these things for the present. I will take you on as an emissary, if you are willing.”

“And, that reminds me.” Yunikawa continues, turning to Yuki and Kioko – “While you were away, I had explored a few means of providing a way for Kioko to return to her home, but due to your unexpectedly long delay in returning, I must admit that I got distracted by other projects. I will keep my promise to you though – give me some time and I will call on you when all is ready.”

"As for what the Temple Guardians meant, I cannot say for certain, but perhaps it was a reference to me – as your older brother, so to speak, of the Human Race.”

Then to Roka he replies, "I am amazed to hear this news of your friends – and it confirms a theory that I have long had about what I have come to term ‘the Chosen’ or ‘The Sacifants’.”

“This is one of the major mysteries that I hope the Book of Secrets will fully divulge. And, as soon as I have a few more pieces of the puzzle, I will share the knowledge of it with you.”

Then to Udo, he answers – “Legend has it that Mount Fuji is the final resting place of the Order of Shades – the Five Ancient Shadow Dragons that comprise the Honor Guard of Massaki Dai-Oni – The Father and Foremost of all Demons and Oni.”

“When the Naga finally defeated Massaki Dai-Oni and the five Generals of his demonic army, known as the Circle of Iron, they used Massaki Dai-Oni’s Essence to poison the Five Ancient Shadow Dragons – burying their remains under a Holy Mountain to prevent them ever rising again. Even though the Dragons are long dead, they still occasionally dream – bringing the mouth of Mount Fuji to life with fire, ash, and brimstone.”

Then finally turning to Rai, Yunikawa said – “This book holds a history of the Naga, and within I hope to learn how the Naga overcame the Oni and scattered them into the depths of the earth.”
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 02, 2014, 05:37:52 pm
Quote
Then to Roka he replies, "I am amazed to hear this news of your friends – and it confirms a theory that I have long had about what I have come to term ‘the Chosen’ or ‘The Sacifants’.”

“This is one of the major mysteries that I hope the Book of Secrets will fully divulge. And, as soon as I have a few more pieces of the puzzle, I will share the knowledge of it with you.”

"I am glad that we were of use to you, Uncle." Roka says, bowing.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 02, 2014, 07:25:09 pm
"Intresting Uncle. I would love to know that story once you are done with the book." Rai says. "We were happy to be of help." Then getting a thoughtful look he asks, "How did the naga know you were after the book?"

He tries to sense motive when Yukiwara answers. (Using a luck to increase chance for success.)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 03, 2014, 12:29:11 am
"Yes, if I must stay here, and really I have no reason to return anyways, then I woukd be honored to lend my services and my talents to you as an emmisary. If you'll have me, then I am yours to command."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 03, 2014, 01:00:04 pm
Udo nods in shock, "I... Uncle Yunikawa, I had a dream about the five dragons back during the mission. It was something like... The 5 elementals were swallowed up and came out as the shadow dragons."

He swallos, straining his brain to recount it correctly, "And then, after that dream, I had a certain, uh, attunement to the Earth itself. It was kinda weird, but what are your thoughts on it?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 03, 2014, 10:00:54 pm
"Thank you uncle Yunikawa." Yuki replies, in regards to Kioko.

"What do you mean ‘the Chosen’ and ‘The Sacifants’? What is your theory about?" Yuki asks.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 04, 2014, 04:57:50 pm
“Very good young Lee,” Yunikawa said to his willingness to become his Emissary – before hearing the other’s ask their questions.

“As you know, Yuki,” Yunikawa answered her first, “we share an attunement to the Naga Shrine in the spirit world, the same that your other two friends shared.”

Then, pointing to Roka and Udo – “and you and you as well.”

“We six, were chosen for some mysterious purpose that ties our fate directly to the Naga Shrine. That is why the Naga know that I was after the Book of Secrets – because they have been watching us. It is why I have long ago taking to hide my line of attunement from their sight through magic of the highest order.”

“Whether it is a blessing or burden, I know not – but as such, we are ‘Chosen’ – but for what? Exaltation? Sacrifice?”

“Only the Book of Secrets can reveal the truth.”

Yunikawa then looked closer at Udo, as if studying him for a moment, and then said – “Yes, you have also attuned with the Earth God somehow. Chosen to be a Ward of the Earth I see. Well, congratulations for that at least. It is an honor as significant as becoming a Wu-Jen or a Priest.”

Then putting his hand to his chin, he thought a bit about the other thing Udo had mentioned.

“Curious, about the other part of your dream – five elementals you say? Yes, there has always been rumored to be a missing ‘fifth element’…”
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 05, 2014, 08:42:15 pm
"Wood" Udo says, perplexed.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 06, 2014, 03:55:25 pm
"Well, imagine that," Yunikawa replies.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 06, 2014, 04:42:19 pm
"I, er, apologize if this is a basic question, but, how could there possibly be a missing elemental?" Roka asks, confused.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 06, 2014, 09:24:32 pm
"In magic, there are four Elements - Fire, Water, Earth, and Air." Yunikawa answers.

"There is not a Wood Element that anyone living today knows of - but it is rumored that there was another Element in the beginning, but whatever happened to it is lost to history."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 07, 2014, 12:35:54 am
"I, er, apologize if this is a basic question, but, how could there possibly be a missing elemental?" Roka asks, confused.

"Well, Energy or Life could be considered an 'elemental'. Maybe that is the lost piece?"
 Miya suggests to him.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 07, 2014, 09:04:34 am
"Interesting thought," Yunikawa replies, "But the Element is a physical embodiment of it. I suppose that wood (as a living thing) could represent life energy though."

Then with a sigh, Yunikawa stood to stand and gave a slight bow.

Turning to Lady Shirahata he said. "thank you for this delicious meal and your time and attention, especially given what you had just gone through prior."

"Your home has been cleansed by a water elemental of mine. When you go there, tell it where to bury the bodies of the house servants and it will do so."

Yuki's mother bowed back, but didn't say anything.

Kioko meanwhile, voiced protest at the idea of going back at all - "I don't wan tot go back there!" she said with a high measure of anxiety in her voice. She was still traumatized by what she had seen happen there.

Yuki's Mother gave the child a reassuring smile and then replied, "I'm sure you can go sleep over at your 'big sister's' house tonight."

As Kioko brightened up a bit at the Idea, Yunikawa meanwhile, bid his Samurai-ko to come with him, then he nodded to the Samurai, while the Samuri-ko gave short bows, and they all made their departure.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 07, 2014, 09:16:30 am
A moment later, Jenna the Samurai-ko bowed back into the room.

She grinned broadly at Roka and then put on a more serious face to address the Korean man, Lee.

"You, come with me. I am to get you a house and instruct you in your duties as the new Emissary of the Master Wu-Jen Yunikawa."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 09, 2014, 10:45:46 am
Lee bows to the party and follows the odd Samurai out to wherever she is heading.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 11, 2014, 07:27:08 pm
Following Yunikawa’s visit, the old Wu-Jen and three of his four Samurai-ko returned to their mountain home west of Sendai and, as promised by Chief Magistrate Saito, messengers were dispatched to Edo to enquire of the Daimyo what the Samurais’ future in Sendai would be. As Edo was so far away (at three hundred and fifty miles) the round trip of the messengers would take just over a month. Until their return with word from the Daimyo, the Samurai were still at leave to do what they would while waiting (as long as they stayed in Sendai).

A few days after that fateful night with the Kitsune, things began to wind down and Kioko stopped thinking about that horrible event, while the Samurai took the opportunity to relax and catch up with things in their social circles.

---

Not sure what he could do that involved just staying in Sendai, Udo spent some time meditating in the city gardens and thinking out his woeful social skill. With a new determination, he actually began to put some effort in how he presented himself, the clothes he wore, and the words that came out of his mouth.

Almost immediately, Udo found that people stopped finding a reason to be elsewhere whenever he came around, and that some were actually interested in his knowledge of the outdoors and woodland lore.

---

As this went on, Rai worked his underworld connections to make contact with the ninjas, in hopes of beginning to build back up some of the old bridges that had been burned between the ninja clans, while the Samurai were lost in the Spirit World for so long.

Things did not look good, but the clans were at least willing to listen to him. In fact, they hinted that if he could somehow prove himself worthy, by some notably great deed, he would be accepted as the Ninja Master of a new clan to be made in his honor – in the honor of Nippon’s first ‘Ninja Emperor’.

As Ninja Master, Rai would have access to the fabled Ninja Magic that only the Ninja Masters knew. Not to mention his own clan minions and a stronger voice of leadership to help unite the other clans together in the cause of restoring Nippon to its rightful heirs.

--

And speaking of underworld ties, Roka finally got in to see Yone, who really had established herself over the years as Yakuza Boss of Sendai.

At first, she wasn’t really happy to see Roka, feeling that he might be a threat to her hard-won position and power – but after some silver words and a soft caress here and there from Roka, she was willing to trust him – at least while distracted by their love-making…

Yone was certainly a powerful resource though; and well established in the noble hierarchy of Sendai. With a little pull from her and some clever politicking on Roka’s part, Roka managed to elevate his own family name up the social ladder to where they were now the fifth most powerful house in Sendai, right behind the Kashiwagi family.

The trade-off here was that now Roka could do Yone legitimate favors in the Sendai court, while she could take care of the illicit favors in the underworld for him.

---

As all this went on, Yuki spent her time practicing her new magic with Kioko – much to the little fox girl’s absolute delight – and hanging out with Miya.

Both Yuki and Miya would go to visit the Occult Society from time to time to check up on the decoding of the Book of Secrets, but that was coming very slowly – much to the deep frustration to all involved.

Even Miya was allowed to apply herself to the Order’s copy, trying to chip away at the diabolical code the Nagas had used to encrypt it – but still, she made no further progress on it than she had originally.

---

The Korean Lee meanwhile, was set up in a town house with scholarly dress and board. He was then instructed by Jenna the Samurai-ko on how to act as an Emissary of the Wu-Jen Yunikawa – not only in society, but in the courts of Sendai itself.

Lee quickly realized that all this was just a fancy title for ‘Messenger/Errand Boy’ – but at least it came with the free digs and a much higher social status than he had before. The nobles of Sendai actually tolerated his presence, because of who he represented, and while he had no say among them, when he carried Yunikawa’s business, they listened to him.

Right now, Yunikawa’s business has been limited to simply keeping tabs on the progress that the Sendai Order of Arcanum has been making on the Book of Secrets and reporting it back to Jenna, who shows up from time to time – when not hanging all over the Samurai Roka – to take Lee’s report.

Then, most recently, Lee was instructed to set up a private meeting between Yunikawa and Exalted Patriarch Yasuo Sanjo: The High Priest of Sendai and Advisor to the Daimyo. The Exalted Patriarch of Sendai’s Shrine of the Ancestors. The Highest Ranking member of Sendai’s Spiritual Community.

---

As for the Wu-Jen Yunikawa himself, he generally remained reclusive – only coming to the Order of Arcanum a few times to personally compare notes with them concerning their progress with the Book of Secrets. On the occasional run-in with the Samurai, he would acknowledge the promise he had made about Kioko and pledged to devote more time to it shortly. It was clear though, that the majority of his time was being consumed (as was the Order’s) in decrypting the Book of Secrets.

---

Then the day finally came; when the messengers returned from Edo with word of the Daimyo.

The Samurai were all summoned to Chief Magistrate Saito’s home and were treated to the traditional dinner and entertainment – once again seen over by the Chief Magistrate’s brother Juro Saito – before being met at last, by the Chief Magistrate in his official capacity.

He had a number of scrolls, each bearing the Daimyo’s personal seal, and went through them one by one. There was one for each of the Samurai, and all held the Samurais’ future in Sendai and how they would be employed in the service of their Daimyo – it was difficult to wait patiently for the news.

Opening the scrolls, the Samurai saw that they were being reassignment back into the courts of Sendai – the noble circles they had originally been drawn from. While eloquently penned and certainly not the same as having been stripped of rank, the assignments were (deep down) a release from service, and while nothing to consider Seppuku over – were non-the-less a mild embarrassment.

The only way to save Face over it would be to work back into the direct services of the Daimyo again at a later date – to do less would be to admit that they had never belonged in the direct service of the Daimyo in the first place. And there was always the hope that the Daimyo was just waiting for a position to open up for them. They had after all served faithfully and with much success in the Daimyo’s name. A reassignment back into his direct service would erase any embarrassment and vindicate all that the Samurai had done before.

In the meantime though, the Samurai would have to turn in their Tessen Of The Daimyo and Chief Magistrate’s Seal…
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 11, 2014, 07:27:43 pm
19th Day of Spring’s End 1306
For Honor – For Sendai


The very next day, the Korean Lee, brought officially-sealed messages to all of the Samurai and even one to little Kioko.

They bore the seal of Exalted Patriarch Yasuo Sanjo: High Priest of Sendai, and were a summons to the Temple of the Ancestors – and as the Exalted Patriarch was an Advisor to the Daimyo, this was not a summons that one turned down.

Heeding the call, the Samurai brought Kioko and followed Lee to the temple, where they were met by a High Priest who brought them all reverently into a meeting room deep within the depths of the temple. The room was paneled in the darkest of lacquered woods and accented with gold and red jade. Incense burned at a large and elegant shrine dedicated to the Ancestors and the room had a feeling of holiness to it.

“You are honored to stand in this room,” the High Priest said quietly – “Very few, even of the Priests themselves, are granted such a visit. This is a place where the Ancestors themselves can come to speak directly to the Exalted Patriarch when necessary.”

“Who are they?” asked Kioko, pointing up to empty alcoves above the shrine.

“They are the Stewards of the Ancestors. They record what is spoken here and relay it to the Ancestors – so little one, watch your tongue while you are here.”

“Yes sir!” Kioko replied, putting on her best behavior – then, when she thought no one was looking, she stuck out her tongue, trying to look at it and wondering why it was so important to watch it.

Looking up into the alcoves with their Spirit Sight, Yuki and Udo could see two spirits dressed as courtly scribes. They each held a pen with a long scroll and were busy jotting down details of the meeting even now.

A few moments later, Exalted Patriarch Yasuo Sanjo and the Master Wu-Jen Yunikawa entered the room (and for once, Yunikawa was without his personal guard of beautiful young samurai-ko). After all the proper protocols and bowing had taken place, everyone was directed to sit down in front of the shrine facing the Exalted Patriarch and Yunikawa.

These two great men represented the highest of each of their respective orders – and the fact that they now sat on equal lines, was a tremendous statement. Traditionally, the Wu-Jen and High Priests were considered opposite sides of Ying and Yang. Always fighting each other over something, or vying for political advantage. That they would come together now, and agree to acknowledge themselves as equals, was remarkable. There had to be some great reason behind it – or more than likely, some perceived advantage to be gained by working together for the time being.

Was it the Book of Secret’s? Had they finally broken the code? No, Miya and Yuki would have known about that, and why would they summon Kioko if that was the case?

Then Exalted Patriarch Yasuo Sanjo spoke – “Master Yunikawa and I have summoned you here to lay upon your shoulders an important task. It is one that will bring great honor to Sendai and assure the blessings and delight of the Ancestors upon us for years to come.”

“Now, Master Yunikawa has made known to me of your little So-Kitsune… oh yes, she is a cute one… the poor dear… Ah, but while Master Yunikawa believes he now has the power to return her to the Ancestral Palace, it would not be proper just to show up in such a sacred place unannounced.”

“Therefore, he has come to me for advice in this matter and I have consulted with the Ancestors.”

“True that the Ancestral Palace is not for the living, but the Ancestors have occasionally received those who have proved themselves worthy of a visit.”

“And this brings us to the task in question, and how it relates to your little So-Kitsune – Master Yunikawa?”

“Thank you Exalted Patriarch Sanjo,” Yunikawa said, continuing the conversation – “I can now return Kioko to the Ancestral Palace, but first we must prove ourselves worthy in the eyes of the Ancestors to be allowed a visit to their celestial home.”

“I have found, by delving into the secrets of our past, that a great battle was fought before the fall of Sendai – such as one, that almost repelled the invading Chinese. It occurred outside the village of Kurokawa (one hundred and sixty miles south of Sendai) and was really the last desperate stand of our people before the battle of Sendai.”

“Had those warriors who fought in that battle withdrawn back to Sendai when their cause was lost, they may perhaps have been able to hold Sendai for longer than it was – yet they stayed and fought to the last man.”

“But we do not know of this battle – why? Because the Chinese dishonored themselves afterwards in their haste, by shamefully dumping our fallen heroes into a mass grave without proper burial and destroying the records of the battle, rather than face what they had done.”

“And now there is a great multitude of the disgraced dead that cannot enter the Spirit World until properly buried.”

“You will oversee the recovery of the bones of these heroes and have them brought here to the Temple of the Ancestors, where Exalted Patriarch Sanjo and his priests will bless them and see to their proper burial.”

“This will allow their souls to finally rest and will ensure us an audience in the Ancestral Palace above.”

“Not to mention,” Exalted Patriarch Sanjo interjected, “the glory, honor, and favor of the Ancestors that it will bring to Sendai.”

“Yes,” Yunikawa agreed – “and then, with the Ancestor’s approval, I will bring you all into the Ancestral Palace, where we can see Kioko back to her home (as promised).”

“So then,” Exalted Patriarch Sanjo asked, addressing the Samurai – “do any of you have any questions?”
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 11, 2014, 07:46:13 pm
Yuki remains silent, eager to set off so that she can return Kioko to where she belongs.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 11, 2014, 07:50:11 pm
Rai's rage at another indiscretion that the Chinesse caused to the noble men of Sendai nearly breaks through his façade of clam and he asks, "If records were destroyed, how do we know where they were buried? Also, wouldn't it be better for the Daymio's new subbordintes to do this task?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 12, 2014, 12:07:15 am
Roka glares at Rai, shocked at what he said.

"This is an amaizing honor, my lords. Not only can we assist our own friend, but we get to honor the warriors who died protecting us." Roka says, bowing.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 12, 2014, 03:55:35 pm
"We know," the Exalted Patriarch replies to Rai, "because the Ancestors have revealed it. As for who the task befits best... If you do not feel up to it, you are free to say so directly..."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 12, 2014, 04:14:27 pm
"We are easily sufficient to take care of the matter, Exalted one." Roka says, bowing. "My colleague was simply so entranced by the idea of giving honor to our Ancestors that he made a slight faux pas."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 12, 2014, 05:25:25 pm
"Masters, I know I am just starting to earn face here in Sendai. But I as well have faced great injustice at the hands of the Chinese. May I secure permission to help in this task. If nothing else but to relieve the burdens of fellow sufferers. I feel we share a mutual bond to some extent on this matter. I would be very honored to help relieve your fallen and aid them into the light."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 12, 2014, 05:43:28 pm
"Yes, of course," Yunikawa says in response to Lee, "We can't have the Samurai of Sendai digging for bones in the dirt. As my Emissary, I leave it to you to gather a group of labors to facilitate the excavation and appropriate transportation of the remains back here to the Temple of The Ancestors."

Then turning to the Samurai, he adds, "You Samurai are responsible for the overall safety, protection, and success of this grand endeavor."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 12, 2014, 06:05:40 pm
Lee bows politely in acknowledgement.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 12, 2014, 08:46:46 pm
"We can do this" Udo says, determined. "But what kind of safety will be needed? Will there be those who will be actively trying to stop us?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 12, 2014, 08:50:32 pm
"Yes, I would like to know if we are going to be dealing with bandits or soldiers. The difference is rather importance even though we will protect the honoured dead no matter what."
 Miya says this with a slight tone of sadness.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 13, 2014, 04:22:06 pm
"There are always forces in opposition to the will of the Ancestors," the Exalted Patriarch says; "Yet another reason why you Samurai are better suited for this honor than any others."

"Yunikawa tells me that you have experience dealing with such forces and the very fact that you were able to procure the Sacred Book of Secrets speaks volumes to this effect."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 13, 2014, 06:45:19 pm
"There are always forces in opposition to the will of the Ancestors," the Exalted Patriarch says; "Yet another reason why you Samurai are better suited for this honor than any others."

"Yunikawa tells me that you have experience dealing with such forces and the very fact that you were able to procure the Sacred Book of Secrets speaks volumes to this effect."

Rai nods his head. Finally understanding why they were chosen for the task.  "Thank you for the chance to do this great honor for sendai."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 13, 2014, 07:21:04 pm
Following Rai's lead Miya also gives a respectful bow.
 "Thank you for providing this task and for answering my questions. I look forward to completing such an honourable task."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 14, 2014, 11:07:20 pm
"There are always forces in opposition to the will of the Ancestors," the Exalted Patriarch says; "Yet another reason why you Samurai are better suited for this honor than any others."

"Yunikawa tells me that you have experience dealing with such forces and the very fact that you were able to procure the Sacred Book of Secrets speaks volumes to this effect."

"Anyone who fights against the ancestors' will are our sworn enemy. We are glad to assist."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 15, 2014, 09:51:47 am
Following the meeting with the Exalted Patriarch and Master Wu-Jen Yunikawa, the Samurai took their newly written traveling papers and went to gather the laborers and equipment necessary to recover and transport the bones of the fallen heroes from Kurokawa to Sendai.

Six of Sendia's soldiers had been assigned to the Samurai to oversee the laborers (under the Korean Lee's supervision, which in turn was under the Samurai's). This way, the Samurai would not have to directly interact with the handlers of the dead - who consisted of the moteliest collection of outcasts any of the Samurai had ever seen.

The leader of the soldiers meanwhile, was a commoner named Shogota, who had a charismatic smile and the staunch loyalty of his men. Upon learning that it would be their honor to accompany the legendary Samurai of Sendai on one of their prestigious quests, he had his men lined out in their polished breastplates with shields and spears – ready for inspection.

Though commoners, they proved to be well mannered and had a proper understanding of protocol and their duty...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 15, 2014, 09:55:40 am
"Oh, do I get to come with you?" Kioko asked Yuki and Miya, as the Samurai left the Temple of the Ancestors.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 15, 2014, 01:15:34 pm
Miya looks at Kioko and smiles.
 "I don't think it would be as safe for you little one. Besides, we will need somebody to guard the city while we are gone. Can you do this for me Kioko?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 15, 2014, 01:23:47 pm
Roka nods to the soldiers.

"Dealing with those who touch the dead may be disgusting, but this mission is a holy one. I thank you all for your cooperation." Roka states, and then heads away, trying to find Yukinawa.

---

Continued in Asking Favors Thread (http://www.bountyheadbebop.com/forum/index.php?topic=1043.0).
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 15, 2014, 01:32:52 pm
Lee meanwhile was making his way through Sendai pulling laborers from all trades and professions. Encouraging them to the cause and lieing when needed to convince them of the glory that awaited.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 15, 2014, 02:12:57 pm
Lee rounds up some teamsters with oxen and wagons to transport the bones back to Sendai in.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 15, 2014, 02:16:35 pm
Rai looks at the soldiers and says, "These is for those who fell before. We must return these fallen heros to the walls of Sendai."

He then follows Roka and waits for him to talk to Yuikawa before starting his own conversation with him.

---

Continued in Asking Favors Thread (http://www.bountyheadbebop.com/forum/index.php?topic=1043.0).
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 15, 2014, 03:04:41 pm
"Oh, do I get to come with you?" Kioko asked Yuki and Miya, as the Samurai left the Temple of the Ancestors.

"Hm..." Yuki replies, pondering over if she should or not. "We've been charged with digging up the dead and bringing them back. It probably won't be too fun for you. Do you really want to come?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 15, 2014, 03:20:27 pm
I sure hope their weapons won't be needed on this assignment...

Udo looks at the Commoner-soldiers curiously, "Shogota, are your 'troops' trained? They seem to be very uniform... Professional."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 15, 2014, 03:56:38 pm
"Yes Samurai-San!" Shagota replies to Udo, "We are Sendai Army; Special detail to the Exalted Patriarch and other Advisors of the Daimyo."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 15, 2014, 03:59:06 pm
"Hm..." Yuki replies, pondering over if she should or not. "We've been charged with digging up the dead and bringing them back. It probably won't be too fun for you. Do you really want to come?"

"Eew, gross!" Kioko replies to Yuki, curling her nose a the thought of dead things. "I can stay with mama Shirahata, right?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 15, 2014, 04:14:37 pm
"Eew, gross!" Kioko replies to Yuki, curling her nose a the thought of dead things. "I can stay with mama Shirahata, right?"

"Of course you can." Yuki replies with a laugh.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 16, 2014, 04:33:30 pm
"Phew, that's a relief!" Kioko says, while making a motion with her arm as if wiping sweat.

Yuki and Miya then take the little fox girl home to Yuki's Mother, to say their goodbyes and (like the rest of the Samurai) gather equipment and provisions for the newest journey.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 16, 2014, 04:46:30 pm
28th Day of Spring’s End 1306
The Grave of Fallen Heroes


With everything ready, the Samurai of Sendai (and the Korean Lee) once again donned their armor and made their way to the city gates, where Shagota and his men would be waiting with the laborers outside. It felt good to ride through the streets of Sendai again, wearing the armor and weapons of the Samurai – maybe no longer as Yoriki of the Chief Magistrate – but still, Samurai of Sendai none-the-less, and on a mission of utmost importance for the honor of the city itself.

Moving through the Gates of Sendai and joining up with the others, the company began its journey, traveling south down the Emperor’s road.

Movement was dreadfully slow, with the company plodding along, due to the oxen drawing the large wagons that would haul the bones back to Sendai – and the laborers’ having to push handcarts full of equipment. Where normally, twenty to thirty miles could be made each day, the company only made fifteen – though that did conveniently allow a stop at each of the way stations down the line, placed every fifteen miles on the road south of Sendai.

After six days, the company turned off the main road, heading west another three days towards Kurokawa along a narrow cart track devoid of any way stations at all.

The village itself was a small community of farmers on the side of a river near a large lake. Though the local terrain was rugged and surrounded on all sides by high mountains, the soil was rich and yielded an abundance of crops.

Entering the village caused no small stir among the farmers, some of which actually began to take up arms, until they noticed the Samurai at the head of the company. Backing into the fields, the farmers waited, eyeing the company suspiciously.

Ahead, three men rushed towards the Samurai and fell to their knees in front of them. It was the village Headman and his two advisors – “Honorable ones – forgive the villagers’ ignorance – they saw the eta (non-persons, AKA ‘Handlers of the Dead’) and thought them a group of brigands come to raid the village!”
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 16, 2014, 05:35:40 pm
Rai smiles and says, "Apology accepted. As soon as your men realized there mistake they backed off. Let this be a cause of no harm no foul."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 16, 2014, 05:39:24 pm
Roka nods.

"It is good that your townsfolk are quick to defend their village. The daimyo would be pleased. Just remember to make sure the insult is never repeated."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 16, 2014, 05:42:28 pm
"Of course my lords, you are too kind!" The Village Headman says with more bows.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 16, 2014, 05:54:08 pm
Suspecting that their task may not go without issue, Yuki decides to keep danger sense activated while they are overseeing the commoners.

"Hehe, don't worry about it." Yuki replies to the Village Headman.

"So, where is the mass grave?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 16, 2014, 06:03:33 pm
"THE WHAT?!?!?" The Headman gulps in unfeigned shock.

"MASS GRAVE?!? HERE?!?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 16, 2014, 06:05:21 pm
The word 'mass grave' then sweeps through the crowd of stunned villagers.

"There's one group of superstitious fools who won't be getting a good night's sleep again anytime soon," Jenna observes sarcastically.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 16, 2014, 06:09:04 pm
The Village Headman and his two advisors then look at Rai and Roka - with an expression just begging them to say that this just isn't true...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 16, 2014, 06:10:13 pm
The word 'mass grave' then sweeps through the crowd of stunned villagers.

"There's one group of superstitious fools who won't be getting a good night's sleep again anytime soon," Jenna observes sarcastically.
Roka hides a smirk at Jenna comment, and then responds to the head, nodding solemnly.


"Yes, that is what brings us here today. We are here today to return the bodies to their rightful place. I had thought that the news was already told. We will need to talk to you and your advisors privately."
Roka says to the Village Head.

"I am Roka Takemura, and my fellows are Yuki Shiratahara, Rai Tsukahara, Udo Kuwabara, Miya Sugai, and Jenna." Roka adds.

Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 16, 2014, 10:11:22 pm
Udo raises an eyebrow at the villagers' seemingly ridiculous over reaction, but shrugs.

He whispers to the Village Head, "Indeed, we are currently tasked to oversee a reburial process of our brethren who have fallen in combat around here." He nods solemnly, looking to Roka.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 16, 2014, 11:05:52 pm
Miya looks to the V-Head with a stern expression on her face and if any of the commoners were staring at her scars she gives no reaction or attempts to hide them.
 "It would be best if we removed ourselves from the public eye. The less confusion about this matter the better."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 17, 2014, 04:23:09 pm
"Yes yes!" The Village Headman says quickly with a bow and ushers the Samurai and Lee into a modest two room house in the center of the village.

"Tea for the Samurai!" he yells at the women of the house and then motions to a low table to sit around with him and his two advisors.

"The Village of Kurokawa is at your service great ones! What do you require of us?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 17, 2014, 04:55:50 pm
Rai looks at the chief and says, "I don't believe we need much from your village. Just let us do our business. We might need a guide to the actual site but beyond that the little we will require is a place to stay as we collect the bones of the honored dead."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 17, 2014, 04:57:51 pm
Rai looks at the chief and says, "I don't believe we need much from your village. Just let us do our business. We might need a guide to the actual site but beyond that the little we will require is a place to stay as we collect the bones of the honored dead."

"Rai, they didn't know of the location. We'll have to find it ourselves. But yes, we simply need room and board for us and the soldiers. We will have the untouchables camp in the proper location, of course."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 17, 2014, 05:18:25 pm
"Yes, yes!" The Village Headman replies - "My home is at your disposal as are the houses of my two advisors!"

"Yes!" they both agree.

The tea is then brought to the table by the house women. The Village Headman and his two advisors all take a sip, then bow at the Samurai and stand to show them the other two houses.

"Please, allow me to show you to the other lodgings. If there is anything else you need, we are at your call."

As he moves to the door, the Village Headman yells at the woman again - "Make the house ready for the Samurai!"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 17, 2014, 09:13:47 pm
"Your enthusiasm is refreshing." Roka says with a smile, as he follows the three, with his two students following behind him.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 17, 2014, 09:15:31 pm
Rai says, "Thank you for your hospitality." to the Village leader before  he fallows.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 18, 2014, 01:01:58 pm
Lee takes it all in How could they not know where the bones of thousands of their fallen soldiers are laid? That just seems... odd?
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 18, 2014, 06:48:00 pm
Udo nods and of follows into the lodgings, "Excuse me, is there a lodging for animal companions?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 18, 2014, 07:00:14 pm
Yuki attempts to cast Summon on Lee, so that he is summoned to the mass grave site. Afterwards, she turns to him.

"Lee, why don't you try and find the mass grave while we're shown the lodgings?" Yuki suggests.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 18, 2014, 07:04:44 pm
Udo nods and of follows into the lodgings, "Excuse me, is there a lodging for animal companions?"

"Yes, of course honorable one! Anywhere you like!" The Headman says to Udo.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 18, 2014, 08:11:02 pm
Yuki attempts to cast Summon on Lee, so that he is summoned to the mass grave site. Afterwards, she turns to him.

"Lee, why don't you try and find the mass grave while we're shown the lodgings?" Yuki suggests.

Lee nods approvingly, "Good idea, though, any idea what I should be going on? I'm imagining it's covered over. Maybe a large area where the vegetation is sparse or doesn't blend?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 18, 2014, 08:15:51 pm
Lee nods approvingly, "Good idea, though, any idea what I should be going on? I'm imagining it's covered over. Maybe a large area where the vegetation is sparse or doesn't blend?"

Yuki smirks.

"Just go wherever you feel like it could be. You'll find it... probably, hehe."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 18, 2014, 09:34:41 pm
"Yes, of course honorable one! Anywhere you like!" The Headman says to Udo.
"...Right" Udo murmurs, kind of weirded out by their conviction, "Good good... Let's put the horses here... And Bleach could sleep in my room..."

Udo Kuwabra blinks, "So, now what?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 18, 2014, 11:04:54 pm
Lee trods around the outskirts of the village. Not really sure what he is looking for. He hops up on a nearby tower and climbs his way to the top to get a better view. He uses his spot and evaluate skills to survey the land.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 19, 2014, 04:35:59 pm
As the Korean Lee went out to scout the area, arrangements were made for the Samurai to stay in the houses of the Village Headman and his two advisors; while Lee and Shagota would share a house with a local family.

The rest of the soldiers, teamsters, and laborers would make a camp outside the village.

---

Riding near the river, Lee noted a stone bridge leading to the other side. Moving across, he saw more fields, most of which were lush with crops that the village was growing.

Then climbing a small bell tower, Lee looked at the lay of the land and considered how and where a large battle could have played out here. Then he spotted a wide flat area about a mile south of the river.

This would have been the place he surmised – plenty of room and some tactical advantages in the rugged terrain surrounding on three sides. The only problem was the size of the battlefield; the grave could be anywhere. That, and they would be tearing up the villagers’ pumpkin and squash fields in their search.

Perhaps some of the older villagers would know tales of the battle fought long ago and could narrow it down for the Samurai…
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Aeon_spiral on June 19, 2014, 07:01:49 pm
Lee made his way down the bell tower and sought out some of the elderly. Presumably he would look for retired warriors (or appeared to be) as they would most likely hold remembrance to historic battles, especially ones so close to their home town. If he cannot find anyone matching this description he would seek out widows of the village as they would have most likely lost their husbands in these battles.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 20, 2014, 04:46:32 pm
Lee spends a few minutes trying to ask around, but the older generation clearly have a problem with talking to a foreigner...
The are polite, but not very talkative and hardly helpful.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 20, 2014, 05:56:04 pm
Quote
As the Korean Lee went out to scout the area, arrangements were made for the Samurai to stay in the houses of the Village Headman and his two advisors; while Lee and Shagota would share a house with a local family.

The rest of the soldiers, teamsters, and laborers would make a camp outside the village.

Once the tour ends, Roka turns to the group.

"While it's good that we got Lee out of the way for the time, we need to go looking for the burial ground. Any ideas gang?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 20, 2014, 09:18:14 pm
"Go find Lee and see what he has discovered so far?"
 Miya suggests with a hint of amusment to Roka.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 20, 2014, 09:37:39 pm
"I am going to ask around the older generation. I don't believe that a battle that large happened without the closest town knowing about it." Rai responds as he leaves and procedes to do just that.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 20, 2014, 11:11:59 pm
"Go find Lee and see what he has discovered so far?"
 Miya suggests with a hint of amusment to Roka.

Yuki nods to her suggestions.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 21, 2014, 10:51:07 pm
"Where are we supposed to find Lee?" Udo chuckles, "Then again, he should be easily spotted, being a foreigner and all"
Udo shrugs and continues, "I'm not sure how spirits work, but if I ride around town I should eventually see some ghost thingies. Maybe, I think?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 22, 2014, 07:42:24 am
"Do whatever you think will work. Though I doubt the villagers know anything about it. Even the village head didn't know of the battle." Roka says to the group.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 22, 2014, 09:37:23 am
Rai heads off to speak with the older generation in the village. They are quite happy to talk to the nice young Nipponese Nobleman (as opposed to the scary-looking Korean Courtier).

It turns out that none of the villagers (even the older ones) have lived in Kurokawa longer than twenty four years - meaning just after the fall of Sendai - having been brought in by the Chinese after the war to rebuild the Village. Apparently, just before the fall of Sendai, the entire Village of Kurokawa was wiped out by the Chinese in their advance on Sendai - not a single survivor.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 22, 2014, 06:00:18 pm
"...Right, Roka. I'll look around, I guess" With no better ideas, Udo prepares his spirit sight as he jumps on his Tiger.
"C'mon Bleach, let's ride around town!" And they do, while keeping an eye out for ghost spirit thingies.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 22, 2014, 06:07:57 pm
Looking around the Village and surrounding fields with Spirit Sight, Udo is actually surprised to find that the entire place is quite devoid of any spirit entities at all.

Riding out to check the progress of the laborer’s camp outside the village, Udo sees that the soldiers have managed to get things set up in relatively good time.

As Udo nears, Shogota and two of his men come forward and bow – "Honorable Udo-San, we have set up the camp and are arranging watches. We will be ready to dig first thing in the morning – just tell us where to start."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 22, 2014, 07:28:41 pm
Once informed of the failure to find anything at all, Roka ends up doing the unthinkable.

"Hey, Miya, you're smart, right? Do you think you could just figure out where they fought?" Roka asks, subtlely suggested that she use one of her mighty AF's.

After saying that, he'll turn to Jenna the vampire.

"Do you have any ideas?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 22, 2014, 07:59:02 pm
"Perhaps I have learned something from my... families history books that can help us or I could check the village records if they have any."
 Miya responds to Roka before looking to the Village Leader/Elder(if he's here) and asking him about the records.

"Can you direct me to your records so that I may examine them and use their information to help us in our endeavor?"

 While waiting for a response she gets somewhere a little higher and looks across the fields to notice anything strange or 'off'.
She spends a luck point on Erudite Insight to help her locate the burial grounds.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 22, 2014, 08:07:23 pm
Udo bites his lip, "Oof, we're looking for it right now. It's hard, as even the Village Head does not recognize the battle."

The Forest award nods. "Shogota, you are a man of the military, where do you think a final stand would take place? Maybe we can work off that." Using his knowledge of Earth sciences and Close Quarter, Udo will try to find the likely spot of the battle (with Shogota's help, hopefully).
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 23, 2014, 05:11:45 pm
When Miya asks about the Village Records, she is shown a small collection of scrolls, dealing with the Kurokawa's history from the time it was rebuilt shortly after the war. There are no records beyond that. The Chinese really wanted to keep what they did here hidden forever...

Udo and Shagota meanwhile, climb a nearby hill to get a look at the lay of the land.

From there, they see a wide flat area below them about a mile south of the river.

That would have been the place Udo surmised – plenty of room and some tactical advantages in the rugged terrain surrounding on three sides. The only problem was the size of the battlefield; the grave could be anywhere don there. That, and they would be tearing up the villagers’ pumpkin and squash fields in their search.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 23, 2014, 05:15:33 pm
Meanwhile, Jenna looks at Yuki (in response to Roka's question about ideas) - "Just have foxy summon an Earth Elemental," she says simply. "They can travel through the earth as easily as we walk upon it; So have it go down there and look around for bones or something. Heck, it could even dig them all up for you to boot..."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 23, 2014, 06:56:59 pm
Yuki ponders over Jenna's idea for a moment.

"Wouldn't the Earth Elemental crush the bones once it ran into them..." She responds.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 23, 2014, 10:25:52 pm
Rai walks in and says, "All the people here were moved in by the Chinesse after the war. Not a single villager knows anything. I think though if there was a big fight and mass grave there should be lingering spirts around the area right?" Looking at Yuki there spirt expert.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 24, 2014, 04:25:30 pm
"Hmm... It might," Jenna answered Yuki. "Is that a problem?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 24, 2014, 04:43:49 pm
"Hmm... It might," Jenna answered Yuki. "Is that a problem?"

"Yes. Yes it is." Yuki replies plainly.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 25, 2014, 01:12:58 am
"Are there no more records of the town? Are there any who would know of the towns past more so than it's records?"
 Miya asks rather bluntly to the Village Leader once she decides there is nothing helpful in their 'official' records.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 25, 2014, 09:10:04 am
Roka shakes his head at Jenna's and Yuki's exchange, and simply chuckles.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 25, 2014, 11:59:30 am
"Alright, this is it Shogota. We just need to find out where to look in this field..."

With a nod to Shogota, Udo informs the team about what he found
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 25, 2014, 05:03:13 pm
The Village Headman just shrugs at Miya and then bows - "These are all that we have honorable one."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 25, 2014, 06:18:58 pm
"Alright, this is it Shogota. We just need to find out where to look in this field..."

With a nod to Shogota, Udo informs the team about what he found

Roka nods to Udo's information.

"Good work, Udo. We'll have to do a bit of searching, but we can actually find it now." Roka says, with a smile.

"Alright, we have a location. Now all we need to do is find the bodies. Ichiro, go find the Korean and tell him to stop wasting time. We need to go." Roka says, sending his student to search for the Korean.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 25, 2014, 06:35:46 pm
"Don't worry, I'll find it, hehe." Yuki says with a smile, heading to the field. Once there, she puts her hand on the ground and casts Postcognition, in hopes that will allow her to see where they took the bodies.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 26, 2014, 05:16:10 pm
The Samurai all head out to the fields, which incidentally, is where they find the Korean Lee has wandered off to. Remembering her Summon that she had cast on Lee, Yuki walked over and put her hand to the ground where he stood and then forced the magical energies within her to cast Postcognition on the entire field.

It took a Surge, two Luck, and a burst blood-vessel in her eye, but Yuki somehow pulled it off. And for an instant she was taken back to another time!

Yuki watched events unfold –

Twenty four years ago, there was a great battle here. The Chinese came through with an innumerable army and Dragon’s Breath cannons and met what was thought to be the last hope for Nippon’s final defense. The greatest of Nippon’s warriors and generals gathered in the field of battle against them and the days were glorious.

But in the end, the Chinese were like the sands of the sea – there was no end to their number and as many as were cut down, more followed behind to replace them. At length, they had surrounded the entire Army of Nippon and continued the work of death until no Samurai remained alive – save thirteen generals of Nippon.

These thirteen generals were then bound and forced to watch, as the commoners of Kurokawa were rounded into the village and burned alive with the entire village, women and children and the elderly.

Then a Chinese Wu-Jen called Jan Xian came and decreed to his men that this battle had never taken place – that should it be mentioned again, the offender and his progeny would be killed by Jan Xian’s own hand – and he made each man take a sealed oath in the name of the Ancestors that they would never speak of it.

The Chinese left, but Jan Xian remained, alone with the thirteen generals, all laying helpless before him.

Then a horrifying sight, as the Wu-Jen slowly slit the throats of each of the generals one-by-one – with an arcane dagger, dripping an unknown venom. As each man died a gruesome convulsing death, a vile and unholy spirit went into the corpses, transforming them into terrible monsters – the Rokurokubi (or Pennaggolan)!

Yuki watched, as their heads then pulled free from their bodies – internal organs trailing behind them – to float in the air before the evil Jan Xian.

“Feast my Children!” the Wu-Jen laughed – and the thirteen former generals swooped down upon their own bodies to devoured the flesh from the bones!

The remains of the generals were then thrown down a Spirit Well and capped with a magical seal of some kind – a massive metallic disc, fashioned from black soulsteel and the moaning spirits of the dead generals themselves.

The Wu-Jen Jan Xian then summoned four Earth Elementals to dig a mass grave – covering over forty thousand dead in a mass grave.

When that was done, Jan Xian left – and the place was desolate for almost an entire year, before the war ended and new villagers were moved in to cultivate the land once more.

Yuki knows that this is the place of the dead – and the Korean Lee is standing directly over the sealed tomb of the thirteen generals. And under their feet not more than ten feet… thousands and thousands and thousands of bones…
 
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 26, 2014, 06:28:43 pm
"How... terrible..." Yuki manages to say between laboured breathes. "Jan Xian can never be forgiven for his crimes..."

"The grave is here, just below you." She says to Lee. "First we'll encounter a spirit well, with the remains of the 13 generals that fought in the last stand. After that, we'll encounter the mass grave... with 40,000 Nipponese souls inside."

"We'll need to be careful when recovering the generals. The Wu-Jen Jan Xian gruesomely transformed them into Rokurokubi."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 26, 2014, 07:40:57 pm
"Huh? Who is Jan Xian?" Roka asks, perplexed.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 26, 2014, 07:43:00 pm
"Huh? Who is Jan Xian?" Roka asks, perplexed.

"A Chinese Wu-Jen." Yuki replies.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 26, 2014, 08:54:24 pm
"A Chinese Wu-Jen." Yuki replies.

"And he transformed the generals into some sort of Rokurokubi?" Roka asks, shaking his head. "Not only do they desecrate our heroes, but they transform them into... Whatever that is... Bastards."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 26, 2014, 09:16:47 pm
"Will we have to... Fight them?" Udo asks with a frown, "That would be... Unfortunate."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 26, 2014, 10:24:55 pm
Miya moves back into the group after finding nothing in the village records.
 "There was nothing in their records, what did you all find out?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 26, 2014, 10:27:21 pm
"Grave's over here." Roka says, simply.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 27, 2014, 06:11:55 pm
"So, anyways, time to have the filth dig the bodies out." Roka says with a nod,and sends off Ichiro (who is nothing more then a glorified message boy at this point) over to the soldiers to inform them.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on June 27, 2014, 06:54:29 pm
"And he transformed the generals into some sort of Rokurokubi?" Roka asks, shaking his head. "Not only do they desecrate our heroes, but they transform them into... Whatever that is... Bastards."

Rai's face goes a little white at the sound of the name and says, "Rokurokubi are Demons who have the head of the human used to make them. They eat human flesh and can appear ordinary to most people. Except they can't be seen in spirit sight. They Float and have there bloody entrails attached to there head."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 28, 2014, 01:00:16 pm
As word reaches the laborers, they begin to make preparations for the dig - while the villagers look on - highly disheartened to learn of a hidden grave in their fields; and at the loss of all the crops that are going to be dug up in the process...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 30, 2014, 04:42:35 pm
29th Day of Spring’s End 1306
Visitor In The Night


It was very early in the morning (and still dark out) the next day, when an urgent knock came to the Headman’s door.

Standing outside was one of Shagota’s soldiers, who bowed low and began speaking as soon as the door was opened – “Honorable ones – there has been an attack on the encampment of laborers. Not brigands – but something came from out of the night sky and swept up a laborer to carry him away screaming.”

“The laborers panicked and tried to flee here to the village, but Shagota managed to contain them – I am afraid a certain number of the laborers were killed in their rebellion.”

“The rest are subdued for now.”

“We have no idea what it was that fell upon the camp, but the laborers say it was a dark demon bird.”
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 30, 2014, 04:51:26 pm
"Lovely." Roka mutters, covered in nothing but a towel.

"We shall be out in a moment. Gather lanterns. We will need light." Roka states to the soldiers, before heading back to his room, to gather his armor and equipment.

Once inside, he'll look to Jenna and sigh.

"We'll have to get back at this later. Trouble finally reared it's ugly head." He states, as he puts on his armor and guantlets.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on June 30, 2014, 05:59:39 pm
Jenna fakes a pout, and starts to ready her arms as well.

"It's never dull around you Roka," she says. "To many things know not to mess with Yunikawa, but with you guys, I get to kick the shit out of stuff now and then."

"Thank you Roka. Thank you."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 30, 2014, 06:04:37 pm
Yuki prepares her things and sets off for the encampment. Once there she'll look around to see how many people are still alive, and of those how many should get medical attention.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on June 30, 2014, 06:13:33 pm
Jenna fakes a pout, and starts to ready her arms as well.

"It's never dull around you Roka," she says. "To many things know not to mess with Yunikawa, but with you guys, I get to kick the shit out of stuff now and then."

"Thank you Roka. Thank you."

"That's uh, one way to look at it." Roka says with a chuckle. Once dressed, he'll make sure the rest are awake and ready.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on June 30, 2014, 09:17:04 pm
Hearing the news, Udo quickly dresses, armor and all.

The outdoorsman brings Bleach outside with him as he looks for other animals which might have seen what had happened earlier.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on June 30, 2014, 11:06:26 pm
Miya listens from inside her room and quickly gets ready for a possible encounter with an Oni(demon?) of some kind.
 As soon as she reaches Yuki she asks a question that has been on her mind recently.

"Yuki, do you think that perhaps the villagers are lying about their knowledge of the grave? I feel like something is off here."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on June 30, 2014, 11:36:10 pm
Miya listens from inside her room and quickly gets ready for a possible encounter with an Oni(demon?) of some kind.
 As soon as she reaches Yuki she asks a question that has been on her mind recently.

"Yuki, do you think that perhaps the villagers are lying about their knowledge of the grave? I feel like something is off here."

"Probably... not?" Yuki replies unsure.

"The villagers here moved in a year after the battle after all."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 01, 2014, 12:59:00 am
Rai nods his head expecting that something like this would happen. He grabss his weapons and armors up. Picking up a lantern he goes outside and waits for the group.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 01, 2014, 04:37:46 pm
Arriving at the laborers encampment, the Samurai saw Shagota and the other soldiers overseeing the teamsters in organizing and readying the equipment necessary for the recovery and transportation of the bones of the fallen heroes – once the digging had commenced…

Lying at the edge of the encampment were six bodies covered in hempcloth – the dead laborers, killed in their rebellion against the soldiers.

Looking around with her Sorcerer’s Sight meanwhile, Yuki could see no indications of magical or spiritual energies, other than those she was already accustomed to seeing among her friends.

Seeing the Samurai, Shagota bowed low, kneeling on one knee as they approached.

"It is unfortunate, honorable ones," he said, "that the laborers took up arms against my men in their panic."

"But rest assured, we have dealt with the leaders of their rebellion and have restored order. The remainder of the laborers will do their duty."

"As for the thing that attacked, neither I, nor my men saw it, as we stood watch at the boundaries of the encampment – whatever it was swooped in from above, right in the center."

"If you will come this way, I can show you the area it attacked."

Leading the Samurai, Shagota took them to a small cooking fire at the center of the encampment between some simple tents. Three laborers bowed down prostrate as the Samurai approached, but said nothing.

Shagota stepped forward and spoke down to them – "What was it you saw? Tell us what happened."

One of the laborers, not looking up, replied holding something out in his hand – "We were sitting at the fire, four of us, when a man-like magpie dressed in a robe flew suddenly down from the night sky and swept up Haru. It had wings, and also arms like a man, but legs like a bird. We saw that it also had a sword and bow."

"Here are some of the feathers that fell as Haru tried to free himself."

Bending down, Shagota took three short black feathers from the laborer and handed them to Yuki. Looking at them, coupled with the details of the attack, Yuki could tell that they were feathers from the legendary Kenku – or birdmen.

While more rare, birdmen were like the Fair folk (fox people) or Nesumi (rat people) – neither Oni nor Spirit, but just like ordinary men.

Lee meanwhile, hung back away from the Samurai and moved through the encampment listening in to the laborers’ conversations when he could. He had to stealth around a bit to do so, as the laborers would immediately throw themselves prostrate and remain silent whenever they noticed him drawing near.

From what he could tell however, the laborers were very superstitious about the attack, seeing it as a terrible omen and wanting to get their work started and finished as soon as possible, so they could all go back to Sendai.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 01, 2014, 04:39:36 pm
 "Huh; Kenku," Jenna says, as if she knew what Yuki might be thinking and said the word just to steal her thunder...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 01, 2014, 05:04:20 pm
Yuki look at Jenna then nods to the rest of the group.

"Kenku are Bird Men, like the Nezumi or Fair Folk. They're rare though..." She says. Yuki then hands Udo one of the feathers.

"Can one of your pets track him?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 01, 2014, 05:10:01 pm
"I, uh... Maybe. Heck, maybe I could!" Udo says, giving it over to Bleach. You can track by scent, right?

He also activates Sensory Enhancing Trance, increasing his smelling abilities. One of us should be able to figure this out, likely.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 01, 2014, 05:14:46 pm
Udo can smell the scent of the Kenku, but its trail is through the air and untrackable - in a matter of moments it will be gone completely...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 01, 2014, 05:15:37 pm
"Bird people? I'd have thought this would be the work of an Oni or something. Odd." Roka says, perplexed.

"Why would a bird person act against our ancestors' will?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 01, 2014, 06:17:40 pm
Yuki shrugs.

"Maybe they're acting on behalf of someone else's will."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 01, 2014, 06:20:49 pm
Udo Kuwabara sniffs into the air. "Guys, I'm getting a faint trace of something... I gotta go before it dissipates--!!"

He morphs into a bat, trying to find the source of the smell as fast as possible. Maybe the raven-man has some sort of den.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 01, 2014, 06:26:38 pm
As Udo flies off, Roka simply shakes his head.

"I'll never understand how you magicians do all that."

Yuki shrugs.

"Maybe they're acting on behalf of someone else's will."

"I suppose" Roka then says, nodding.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 01, 2014, 06:40:35 pm
Flying as a bat, Udo follows the scent a few hundred feet into the air - before it vanished completely - and not for dissipating. it literally ends abruptly, as if the thing he was following teleported away or something...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 01, 2014, 07:01:11 pm
Earth God-damnit
Bat-Udo sighs, looking around before heading back. It'll probably come back... They just need to prepare.

Swooping down Udo picks some of his clothing to dress in and moves behind a tree before morphing back, dressing there instead of showing off to everybody his glory.

Walking back, he tells his team with a frown, "No dice, the scent left abruptly. Can those bird-men teleport or something?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 02, 2014, 12:40:03 am
"If it's a Wu-Jen, maybe. We should have Lee camp here until our job here is done." Yuki replies.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 02, 2014, 11:15:06 am
"If it's a Wu-Jen, maybe. We should have Lee camp here until our job here is done." Yuki replies.

"I have a feeling we don't know all of what is going on here, there is information that we are missing."
 Miya says to her friend.

"Udo, do you think we could try and track it on foot by heading in the direction of the scent? Or will that not work?"
 She turns to Udo and asks.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 02, 2014, 11:18:28 am
Udo shakes his head, "Doubtful. As I said, the scent abruptly disappeared, so it's likely that thing teleports. Maybe a general direction based on where I flew, but otherwise... Yeah, doubtful."

He ponders for a moment, "But, what we could do is ask the villagers to look out for feathers, maybe that could help us get to it?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 02, 2014, 11:23:30 am
"Perhaps, but why did the villagers not say anything about the birdman? It's unlikely he would just swoop in one night and grab a labourer out of the blue. He must have been sighted from afar before at least."
 Miya asks to nobody in particular.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 02, 2014, 11:30:04 am
"Did we even ask the villagers about it?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 02, 2014, 11:39:39 am
"I doubt that. Not that they'd be much help. If a birdman nest was around here, then everyone would know about it." Roka states simply.

"Yuki, could you possibly summon the birdman to us? Or take us to the birdman, with your divine location?
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 02, 2014, 12:02:07 pm
Rai looks thoughtful and says, "Why would a birdman steal a laborur? Maybe its just trying to find out what is going on. It could also be a servent to someone who is attempting to stop our mission here."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 02, 2014, 12:07:00 pm
"Yeah, I'm with you and Yuki on this one. Especially since I don't think most birdmen can teleport." Roka says, talking out of his ass, since he knows absolutely nothing about birdmen.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 02, 2014, 12:10:57 pm
"Oh wait, Rai! You knew a lot about the Rokurobi thingies, what do you know about the bird-men?" Udo asks, hopeful.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 02, 2014, 05:45:53 pm
"I doubt that. Not that they'd be much help. If a birdman nest was around here, then everyone would know about it." Roka states simply.

"Yuki, could you possibly summon the birdman to us? Or take us to the birdman, with your divine location?

"I could summon it, but depending on how far away it went, who knows when it'd come back..." Yuki replies.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 02, 2014, 10:54:37 pm
"Oh wait, Rai! You knew a lot about the Rokurobi thingies, what do you know about the bird-men?" Udo asks, hopeful.

Rai shakes his head and says, "I know probably less the Yuki does on this subject. So we obviously can't track it down. Instead we should lay a trap for it.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 02, 2014, 10:58:26 pm
"You have an idea about one?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 02, 2014, 11:01:05 pm
"You somehow knew more about Rokurobi than Yuki" Udo replies, "But... Yeah, it'll probably show up tonight again. Though I still think we should ask the villagers about it. Maybe it's appeared here before"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 03, 2014, 02:12:29 am
"You have an idea about one?"

Rai nods and says, "Yes I have an idea but Udo is right we should check to see if this is a recurring event. If it is then there is less worry about it targeting us. But the plan I am forming would invovle Jenna." Looking towards her he asks, "How quickly can you move?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 03, 2014, 03:53:56 pm
"Fast enough," Jenna replies.

"Why?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 03, 2014, 04:55:21 pm
"Fast enough," Jenna replies.

"Why?"

Rai says, "Because if we have you watch the camp the next time it comes. I want to know if you could grab it before it grabs one of our men."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 03, 2014, 04:59:12 pm
"Why not just have Miya or Yuki hide in a bush and shoot at it when it comes?" Udo asks, confident that just ambushing it would work. "Or the Korean dude, I think he uses a bow, but in any case, grabbing seems kind of silly, Rai."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 03, 2014, 05:03:57 pm
Yuki giggles at the mental image of Jenna jumping up and down while attempting to grab onto a birdman flying just above her reach.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 03, 2014, 05:06:03 pm
"Yeah, just waiting for it to return is probably the best move here." Roka states, nodding.

"We can have the birdman on the floor in a couple of seconds. We just need to see it."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 04, 2014, 08:44:39 am
When asked about the bird men, the villagers reply that there have been rare sightings of Kenku in the area over the years, but everyone just considered it like an honor to the village or something - at it seemed that the Kenku (when spotted) were always watching over the village before they disappeared.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 04, 2014, 08:48:23 am
Jenna meanwhile, just looks at Rai like he's speaking gibberish.

"I can't catch a flying Kenku, if that is what you are asking," she says, "but maybe if I ask it nicely, it will come down for a chat."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 04, 2014, 08:50:25 am
"I'll go ahead and get the laborers digging now," Lee said to the Samurai, bowing and then heading off to direct the work.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 04, 2014, 09:45:51 am
"Perhaps Udo can try to talk to the birdman alone somewhere with Yuki and I hiding nearby incase the whole thing turns out for the worst."
 Miya suggests to the group.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 04, 2014, 10:42:21 am
"I... I can try. I mean, it is possible that the Birdman isn't evil, and just doesn't understand what we're trying to do. Maybe." Udo replies, rubbing Bleach's back.

"But I'm not even sure I can communicate with them unless they speak Nipponese or bird-speak, if they're like Nezumi then they may even have their own language. I dunno. I think it's worth a try though."

With a nod, "Where should I go then? Just stay with the laborers?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 04, 2014, 12:58:44 pm
"What else are we going to do in this tiny speck of nothing," Jenna asks, referring to the Village.

"Let the Korean Lee direct the labors, while the soldiers stand watches to keep the laborers in line. We can take turns supervising the project overall, while the others try not to die of boredom around here."

"If (or when) the Kenku shows up again - at least we'll be ready."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 04, 2014, 01:26:44 pm
"What else are we going to do in this tiny speck of nothing," Jenna asks, referring to the Village.

"Let the Korean Lee direct the labors, while the soldiers stand watches to keep the laborers in line. We can take turns supervising the project overall, while the others try not to die of boredom around here."

"If (or when) the Kenku shows up again - at least we'll be ready."

"Yeah, we should probably do it in groups of three, then. Udo, Miya and Rai, and You, me, and Yuki. We should be able to catch it with those kind of groups."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 04, 2014, 01:37:30 pm
"Agree, but I want the night shift," Jenna says - "This daylight just hurts my eyes too much...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 04, 2014, 02:11:16 pm
"Anyone disagree with the plan?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 04, 2014, 02:13:09 pm
Rai nods, "So Roka, Yuki and Jenna will watch the rest of the night and in the morning we switch off."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 04, 2014, 02:20:05 pm
"Guys, the Birdperson attacked in the night. It's unlikely he'll pop up in the morning." Udo says, shaking his head.
"Our groups should watch different times during the night, sleeping at intervals."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 04, 2014, 04:13:45 pm
"I don't know, it's not like it'll be a hassle for us to just watch both times. This way we are certain we won't miss him."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 04, 2014, 06:13:53 pm
Yuki stands quietly, waiting for the group to make their decision on how they want to proceed.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 04, 2014, 07:20:26 pm
"I can see better than Roka can in the dark, why would he be posted as a guard when I am able? It might be better to switch the group except for Jenna."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 05, 2014, 09:10:02 pm
"Miya, don't worry. I'm only there as the muscle. Don't need to see much to hit." Roka says with a smirk.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 05, 2014, 09:10:43 pm
"I like my idea of sleeping in 3 hour intervals. It'd be a waste to have half of us up the entire night and the other sleeping through to get up in daylight. The Raven-person must've come at a convenient time for him, during the night. Assuming he's coming at all, it's probably gonna be in the night, so our two groups should alternate, but during the night." Udo argues.

"Though perhaps we should change the groups, I don't really mind either way though." He shrugs.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 06, 2014, 01:41:24 pm
2nd Day of Summer 1303
The Wu-Jen Jan Xian


Two days had passed from the early morning attack on the laborers’ encampment, with no sign of the laborer who had been carried off by the Kenku.

Proper watches had been put in place and the laborers had buried their dead comrades and begun the digging for the lost battlefield of fallen heroes.

The villagers meanwhile, held their Summerfest celebration; inviting the Samurai, soldiers, and teamsters to participate – holding a large picnic with some sporting contests, dancing, and the like.

The Samurai had a difficult time enjoying themselves though, knowing that it distracted them from their vigil against the Kenku. The holiday went on without incident however, until midnight, when everyone made a great clamor with bells, pots, pans, and cheering to officially ‘ring in’ the coming of summer.

Surprisingly, nothing came out of the sky, nothing attack the village, nothing bad happened.

Then, on the morning of the third day, after excavating to a depth of six feet (over where Yuki had pointed out), one of the laborers brought news of their find – bones upon bones in the rusting remains of armor and weapons!

As the laborers set to the task of unearthing them, Yuki felt a sudden rush of power, which to her alarm, she knew heralded the onset of some very powerful spell!

Before she could raise a warning, a sudden cry among the laborers confirmed her fears, as a vast swarm of shimmering hornets, cut from pure ice, flew from the trees on the west side of the field, sweeping over everyone in their path and cutting down the laborers in a bloody swath!

The swarm was so widespread; that it tore to pieces every single laborer out in the field – and even one of the armored soldiers that had been out there overseeing them was cut up badly enough that he was forced to throw himself to the ground and cover himself with his shield just to survive!

When it was over, the ice hornets melted away instantly, falling back to the earth in a rain of cold water that seemed to mix with and expand the red pools of blood staining the field of dead laborers strewn across the ground.

It was then, that the attacker decided to show himself, abruptly appearing out of nowhere in the sky, riding on a white cloud. He was a very old-looking Chinese man with long braided beard and matching eyebrows – and a large flock of eighteen black magpie-like Kenku attended him; each armed in chain shirts with bows drawn and a katana and wakasashi at their sides.

The Wu-jen, called down at the Samurai in a loud and powerful voice – “I am the Wu-Jen Jan Xian! By decree of the Shogun Taiko T’ien Shinhan – You who have re-opened this old wound must die! And the village of Kurokawa will be no more!”

With that, the Wu-Jen began casting another spell and the Kenku drew crackling bolts of lightning across their bows…

Observing their adversaries meanwhile, Miya could see with her Ruby Eye of Discernment that there were only six Kenku – each with two illusionary duplicates of itself – and that the Wu-Jen himself was also an Illusion – that he had to be somewhere else in all of this…

---

(OOC – Combat has started – good luck! PS - everyone is now Intimidated, thanks to Righteous Indignation

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v651/BerkaZerka/MythicNippon/Kenku.jpg)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 06, 2014, 05:26:30 pm
Roka grows massive muscles, as is usual for his Heavy Hitter technique, as well as activating amaizing celerity

"The honor of loyal warriors is mightier then you, you bastard. We will destroy all of you, and your little magic birds!" Roka shouts, righteously intimidating his foes. (Righteous indignation)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 06, 2014, 07:37:07 pm
The tragic hero Lee, thinking that this is his chance to save face with the Samurai - blows as much of his spirit energy as possible on elemental barb powered rain of shooting stars attacks on the Wu-Jen - not realizing yet that he is just an illusion.

"Murderer!" he yells angrily.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 06, 2014, 08:38:59 pm
Damn Chinese... And those Birdmen are definitely not on the good side of things either.

Flooding his mind with thoughts of hate and contempt for the Chinese, especially for what the chinks did here, Udo Kuwabara's body begins to morph into something more... Scaly, reptilian.
Let's bring the fight to the skies!

With a crow of anger, Udinosaur takes flight, with a will to ram any bird man in his way.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 07, 2014, 11:37:49 am
"Fellow Samurai, there are only six Kenku against us here. The Wu-Jen is hiding like the coward he is instead of facing us with honor."
 Miya prepares herself and attunes her spirit to her bow before aiming at the 6 real Kenku above.

 "I shall not allow you to further disgrace these warriors for what they did!"
She begins shooting at the real Kenku's with One arrow For Each of them.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 07, 2014, 02:04:25 pm
Raij nods and this about how he can fight an enemy that is not there. Furthermore all the kaku are to high up for any of his weapons to reach them. Faced with this conundrum Rai really feels usless. He decieds the best course of action would be to take defensive action and be prepared for one one of the birds gets in his range. 
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 07, 2014, 04:28:52 pm
Yuki quickly uses her bow for the physical boast. After that, she decides the group needs something to even the odds against the Kenku, so she uses light manipulation to create a mirror-like effect of the maximum size she can above them. This way the Kenku looking down only see their own reflection, while the group on the ground can see the Kenku just fine. She then uses a surge for a defence action so she can dodge the incoming attacks.

Yuki also keeps an eye out for the spell the wu-jen is casting, prepared to surge and use reflect magic if she gets the opportunity.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 08, 2014, 06:29:10 pm
Roka buffs, as Lee’s impressively ineffectual attack appears to miss the Wu-jen, and Miya warns everyone that he is only an Illusion.

Yuki meanwhile, covers the Samurai under a two hundred foot diameter reflective dome – effectively hiding them from the Kenku and Wu-Jen’s sight; while being able to see through it from below.

As this goes on, Miya puts a heavy arrow into each of the first four Kenkus’ heads – after lining up headshots (damage straight to Wounds) and Roka’s bumping them with Born Leader Surge to Uncanny (armor piercing) shots – before the fifth and sixth Kenku realizes they need to dodge!

Four Kenku tumble dead from the sky, while another eight illusionary duplicates abruptly vanish – leaving 2 real Kenku and their four duplicates remaining.

Udo meanwhile, transforms into a huge Pteranodon and leaps into the sky at the enemies aloft!

Seeing only one viable target, the Kenku fire their arrows at Udo, as he covers the distance – loosing long arcs of lightning from their bows!

Udo is slammed by the bolts! First for 22 Damage (Luck for half) and then again for 27 Damage (Luck for Half)!

Yuki then feels a spell being cast and Surges to Reflect it – but a moment later (even though she successfully cast Reflect Magic) a Fireball erupts under the reflective dome – encompassing Miya, Rai, and Lee for 20 Damage each (Luck for half all around)!

Another two fireballs then erupt in the center of the village itself, engulfing the Headman’s house and a couple of houses on the far side!

In frustration, Rai readies an attack, hoping that the Kenku and Wu-Jen will come down to their level to fight.

Unfortunately, with Udo in their sights, the Adversaries are content to remain high and actually fly up another two hundred feet (now six hundred feet high) in a vain attempt to get out of Miya’s deadly range.

Looking around for the real Wu-jen meanwhile, Yuki spots him (with Luck), standing on a cloud one thousand feet above the village!

When Yuki points him out to the other Samurai, only Udo and Rai (with Luck) can actually see him!

---

(OOC: On to Round 2)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 08, 2014, 06:35:12 pm
"Well shit," Jenna remarks, Joining Roka's side and pulling out her bow.

"I don't think I can come anywhere near a shot like that one Miya just pulled off. Remind me never to let her see me coming!"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 08, 2014, 07:45:01 pm
Rai after spotting the enemy wu-jen shows everyone where he is. "There is the wu-jen. Roka he is to high in the sky for us to fight we need to evacuate the villigers and defend them."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 08, 2014, 07:50:22 pm
"Ha ha, perfect shots Miya!"

"Well shit," Jenna remarks, Joining Roka's side and pulling out her bow.

"I don't think I can come anywhere near a shot like that one Miya just pulled off. Remind me never to let her see me coming!"

Roka grins,

"We weren't the Yoriki for our good looks."
Rai after spotting the enemy wu-jen shows everyone where he is. "There is the wu-jen. Roka he is to high in the sky for us to fight we need to evacuate the villigers and defend them."

Roka nods.

"UDO! When you finish with the birds, join us at the village!" He shouts, grabbing Rai in one arm, and Jenna in the other, and racing to the village.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 08, 2014, 07:54:34 pm
Udinosaur grunts, putting in a defensive action as it continues to close in to ram, trying to discern which ones are real by regarding which arrow from where hurt. Because... Man, did those sting.

Additionally, he surges to make sure he reaches them this time or to ram more.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 08, 2014, 09:24:51 pm
"UDO! When you finish with the birds, join us at the village!" He shouts, grabbing Rai in one arm, and Jenna in the other, and racing to the village.

Rai says back to Roka, "Jenna has a bow right she can keep the wujen distracted as we evacuate the villagers."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 08, 2014, 09:26:14 pm
Rai says back to Roka, "Jenna has a bow right she can keep the wujen distracted as we evacuate the villagers."

"This range, only Miya could hit." Roka replies, still running.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 09, 2014, 01:05:58 pm
Miya grins as she aims for the remaining birdmen.
 "It's like I'm hunting birds in the forest again."

[Rapid Shot]
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 09, 2014, 04:04:57 pm
Figuring the Wu-Jen mage is using magic to float, Yuki first casts Dispel magic on him. After that, she casts Killjoy and Curse on him (with the help of a surge).

She then prepares to use a surge to defend herself via dispel magic, reflect magic, or uncanny dodge (whichever works best).
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 09, 2014, 06:10:47 pm
As Rai, Roka, and Jenna run from the field toward the now flaming village, Lee curses his luck and fires his bow at one of the Kenku – watching his shot pass right through.

Another arrow later, and he has discovered yet a second Illusion.

Using this information, coupled with which lightning arrows actually hurt, Udo flies in at a Kenku and actually spears it right through the wing with his long sharp beak! The Kenku squawks loudly in pain, as it takes 14 Damage before pulling itself free – now flying rather crudely with the injury.

Not stopping there, Udo flips his body around and sinks his talons into the Kenku’s shoulders for another 17 Damage on top of a Hold! The Kenku spends luck for half damage and then flails free however –before firing another lightning arrow right at Udo’s face!

With a quick jerk of his head, Udo dodges the bolt as it cracks past – but then gets slammed in the back for 20 Damage by the other Kenku’s lightning arrow! Winging over, Udo sees the other Kenku fire a second Lightning arrow, but manages to slip it this time!

As this goes on, Miya lines up another headshot (with luck) and skips an arrow off the uninjured Kenku’s scalp for 10 damage to Wounds. She then tries with a second shot, but misses.

Then Yuki casts Dispel Magic on the cloud that the Wu-Jen is standing on – and grins with satisfaction when it vanishes out from under him. He falls two hundred feet before Surge-casting Flight to stop his decent.

Yuki then hits him with Killjoy and Curse.

The Wu-Jen meanwhile, uses Control Flames to spread the fires over the village even more and then Summons an Oni under the reflective dome with the remaining Samurai.

Abruptly, the ground shakes and then bursts open – as the Samurai watch a horrifying thing emerge! An eight foot tall, twelve foot round, corpulent and bloated demon with way too big a mouth and sticky rubbery gray skin – layered in undulating rolls of fat!

Ignoring the Samurai, the monster just reaches out with its massively wide hands and begins to scoop up and shovel bones from the excavation site right into its mouth – crunching them up with a starved hunger!

From her recent studies of the occult, Yuki recognize the Oni as Tsuburu-No-Oni – Demon Magistrate of the First Circle and Eater of The Dead!

---

(OOC Onto Round 3!)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 09, 2014, 06:35:44 pm
Roka curses under his breath, as he turns back towards the First Circle ONI.

Once there, he shouts at Yuki.

"Drain the demon's luck! And heal Udo while you're at it!" And gives her his last two surges to do so.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 09, 2014, 06:53:44 pm
Yuki looks at the giant blob of an oni and visibly cringes at its sight. She then realizes that the oni is eating all the men they were sent to bury properly.

"We need to stop the oni!" She cries out. Yuki then nods to Roka's commands, and immediately uses Karma drain on the oni. She then uses Karma drain on the Wu-Jen, and following that she'll use Dispel magic again to cancel his flight.

During all of this, she'll also use jinx to try and counter any action the oni or wu-jen takes.

After using dispel magic, Yuki will heal Udo. She'll also give him a luck point using harmony, since he seems to be down on his luck in this fight. Finally, Yuki will surge to summon a water elemental, so it can hopefully help remove the fire next round.

[Also surge to uncanny dodge/reflect magic if applicable]
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 09, 2014, 07:18:26 pm
Writhing in pain, Udo moves quickly (surge to go first if needs be)-- he grabs one of nearby bird men, attempting to use them as a Bird-human-shield. He will also use any surges needed for actions (defense or otherwise) which will ensure he survives.

He also squawks a lot (especially when that fat blob came to being); but it doesn't really mean anything more than, 'Ouch!' and, 'Holy shit!'.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 10, 2014, 01:40:57 pm
Rai is horrified by the Demon before him who is eating the remains of fallen hears. As soon as he gets into range of this horrific being Rai begins Throwing silver knives at the demons skull. Hoping to distract it from its morbid meal. (Surge to make the first 2 throws more powerful and to add one more to his attack(no surge to make it stronger))
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 11, 2014, 10:52:17 am
Miya looks on in disgust at the strange blob before aiming at the remaining birdman Once the birdman is dead she will look for the Wu-Jen and try to take him down with a few quick shots.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 12, 2014, 08:50:40 am
Roka, Rai, and Jenna turn back to the fields – leaving the villagers to flee the burning village for themselves – after all, their mission was to protect the bones, not the villagers.

As she goes, Jenna shoots two arrows into the fat blob of a demon for 14 and 17 Damage, but both just disappear into the fat rolls and it is unclear if it even felt them hit…

Rai surges at the end of running back to throw two silver daggers at the Oni’s head. The first thunks into the thing’s forehead for an impressive 23 Damage straight to Wounds – but a huge fist full of bones knocks the second dagger away, before it can hit its mark.

Yuki meanwhile, nods to Roka's commands and Karma Drains both the oni and Wu-Jen.

Following that she surge casts Dispel Magic again to cancel the Wu-Jen’s Flight once more.

The Wu-Jen however, Dispels Yuki’s Dispel, and counters her Jinx to do so.

'At least, it is burning up what little luck he has to do so', Yuki thinks.

Then, the Wu-Jen casts another spell, which Yuki also Jinx’s and the Wu-Jen counters. At that however, he disappears from sight completely.

With nothing better left to do, Yuki surge Heals Udo and grants him another Luck Point with Harmony – before surge Summon a Water Elemental with her bow.

The moment the Water Elemental appears, it gives out a bubbling wail and crashes forward at the bone-eating Oni like a wave.

Seeing this, Lee is inspired to use the Tsunami Wave of his magic fans on the corpulent Oni. With a flick of his wrist, an 8 ft high, 12 ft wide, wave of saltwater slams into the Oni – doing 12 Damage and knocking it back thirty feet and Prone in the process.

With the monster now away from the majority of the bones, Lee surges to shoot it with two of his great arrows – doing 8 Damage and 14 Damage respectively.

As this goes on, Miya puts another arrow into each of the last two Kenku’s heads – killing them both.

This of course, leaves Udo without any viable targets – all alone, way up in the sky.

Looking around, neither he, nor any of the other Samurai can see where the Wu-Jen went off to.

Back on the ground meanwhile, the Tsuburu-No-Oni rights its fat-self and then makes disgusting retching sounds. The Samurai know it isn’t going to be pretty, when it opens its huge mouth impossibly wide and disgorges a torrent of black slime-covered bones from its guts!

The bones then twitch and writhe a moment, before assembling themselves into two dozen animated mockeries of skeletal stick men – each just random bones stuck to random bones in vaguely humanoid shapes with the black goo!
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 12, 2014, 11:03:42 am
"COWARD!"
 Miya yells out at the Wu-Jen despite the fact she can not see him. Now she turns to the strange blob creature and it's new friends.

"This is not what I was expecting for an 'easy' mission." She begins to attune her spirit to her arrows as she takes aim.
[Surge(luck?) for Multishot.]
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 12, 2014, 05:55:13 pm
With the Wu-Jen gone for the moment, Yuki casts Precipitation on the part of the town that's on fire, in hopes of slowing or stopping it (use luck to achieve this).

She then fires two silver arrows at the oni, while wondering where the heck the Wu-Jen went.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 12, 2014, 07:02:53 pm
Rai yells out, "Sliver seems to hurt it more." To his companions as he throws two more knives at the oni.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 12, 2014, 08:49:43 pm
"How DARE you reanimate the bones of our heroes! Everyone, destroy the ONI! Hopefully if we do, our heroes will no longer be disgraced by it's evil taint!"

Roka channels his ki into a fist, and then surges to attack the giant ONI with a savage Grevious injury strike.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 12, 2014, 09:07:06 pm
Udinosaur, now not in terrible pain, tries to fly over to the fatso and tries to plant his talons into the fatty's eye sockets. He surges try to do it twice.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 13, 2014, 10:56:52 am
Jenna shoots at the Oni twice more yells at the Samurai – “don’t touch that black shit!”

Her arrows punch into the fat creature for another 12 and 16 Damage.

Looking, the Samurai can see that everywhere the black goo touches; it withers the vegetation around it. The skeletal stick men are literally killing the ground as they totter over it!

As this goes on, the water elemental slams into the Oni for 16 Damage – rocking it back!

Then Rai puts two more silver daggers into it as well.

With a tremendous howl, the Tsuburu-No-Oni abruptly splits up the middle, from where Rai’s daggers punched in, and literally bursts open like a rotten bladder of cancer-filled puss!

Roka, who was charging it at the time, has to leap back to avoid being doused in the filth – and sees that it poisons the ground everywhere it touches, like the walking stickmen!

As it dies, so do the plants and vegetation in the field – death washing out from it hundreds of feet in all directions.

With her main target already dealt with, Miya rapidly fires four shots at the walking stickmen. It takes three shots to put one down (7, 10, & 10 Damage – then 11 Damage into a second one). The things, being made of pure bone, do not seem especially vulnerable to having arrows shot into them…

Miya then surges to add two more arrows into the second bone stickman – and sure enough, drops it too.

Seeing this, Lee puts two arrows into a stickman and drops it with the help of a crit.

As this goes on, Yuki casts Precipitation off the cuff – feeling the raw magical energy sear through her – to create a deluge over the village. In an instant, dark clouds gather and a tremendous downpour begins – seriously hampering the fire’s ability to spread.

Then suddenly, Yuki’s Danger Sense goes off the charts! And she instinctively activates Uncanny Dodge. Whatever it is, she knows that she is under attack and has to use Uncanny Dodge twice more just to avoid the invisible threat!

Using Luck, she focuses her senses and then notices the Wu-Jen Jan Xian right next to her, trying to thrust an arcane poison-dripping dagger into her back!

Yelling for the other Samurai, only Miya (with Luck) and Roka (with 2 Luck) can actually see him.

Roka meanwhile, having already channeled Ki into his fist, turns quickly and with Amazing Celerity, blindsides the Wu-Jen with two Heavy Hitter enhanced Savage Blow Grievous Injury strikes!

The Wu-Jen tries to use Uncanny Dodge on both, but Yuki Jinx’s him twice and he no longer has (with Killjoy) the Luck required to counter it!

Roka slams into the Chines man’s head twice – first for 17 Damage straight to Wounds (with 2 Luck ) – and then a skull-crushing 33 Damage straight to Wounds!

Not even the Wu-Jen’s Unbreakable spell is enough to stop those monstrous blows!

Jan Xian falls to the ground Disabled and Roka (with 2 more Jinx’s from Yuki) surges to continue pounding the man from Disabled to Dying to Dead!

With nothing left but to clean up the twenty one bone stickmen, Udo swoops down – but is unsure if he actually wants to engage any of them… They are covered in some kind of poison after all…

---

(OOC – onto Round 4!)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 13, 2014, 02:48:05 pm
Roka spits at the body of the Wu-Jen, and then turns to the bird in the air.

"Udo! If you can, try and entangle the bodies! I do not want to harm the bodies of the ancestors!" Roka shouts to Udo, as he waits for a second. If Udo can't, well, he'll have to attack the skeletons with ripple across pond
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 13, 2014, 02:57:43 pm
Rai looks at the oncoming force and says, "Yuki use the water elemental to purify the area."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 13, 2014, 03:08:35 pm
Udo nods as Roka instructs him what to do, hovering above the undead hoard horde, casting his shadow on them.

With a squawk, Udo tries to direct the plants to collectively maintain a strong hold on all (or most) of the skeletons (3-5 Earth Power surge use for that, plus a surge for initatiative)-- and Hopefully the goo won't melt the plants as well...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 13, 2014, 03:12:24 pm
Udo starts to use Entangle (1 Surge) - but quickly finds that the black goo kills all plant life the instant it touches any. There is literally nothing living around any of the bone stickmen to use for entangling.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 13, 2014, 03:14:38 pm
Rai looks at the crops getting destroyed in worry. 'Is there any way to keep this from harming the crops Yuki?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 13, 2014, 03:15:50 pm
"Erm, anyone have any idea how to remove the gunk?" Roka asks.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 13, 2014, 03:18:54 pm
"Erm, anyone have any idea how to remove the gunk?" Roka asks.

Rai points at the water elemental and says, "Can't it cleanse the area of the posin from the demon? Also Roka nice job on getting the wu jen. However I wish we managed to catch him alive for information about where the generals he turned into demons are."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 13, 2014, 03:22:04 pm
"Rai, he was a wujen. Better to kill him then take a chance with him escaping." Roka says, shrugging.

"I dunno if we want to order an emissary of the gods to clean up the dead."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 13, 2014, 03:26:33 pm
Speaking of the Water Elemental, now that the Oni has been dealt with, it begins to move away from the battle toward the Village - no doubt ready to carry out Yuki's original order...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 13, 2014, 03:44:23 pm
"Rai, he was a wujen. Better to kill him then take a chance with him escaping." Roka says, shrugging.

"I dunno if we want to order an emissary of the gods to clean up the dead."

Rai shakes his head and says, "Not the dead the posion coming off of them but I will leave that to Yuki. I understand about the wujen. I am just worried about where those Demons may be hiding." Rai says with a far off look in his eyes.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 13, 2014, 03:54:14 pm
Yuki meanwhile, watching the tottering movements of the skeletal stickmen and then giving them a look with her Sorcerer's Sight, realizes that they are not undead at all. They are in fact, nothing more than Animated Objects - though dangerous still, especially given that they are all covered in the poisonous goo...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 13, 2014, 06:21:53 pm
"Finally, your crimes against our people have been answered for, Jan Xian." Yuki says.

Speaking of the Water Elemental, now that the Oni has been dealt with, it begins to move away from the battle toward the Village - no doubt ready to carry out Yuki's original order...

"Water elemental, clean up the poisonous black goo covering the skeletons and the ground." Yuki orders.

(I'll let Fireplay or someone else give the suggestion then post Yuki's response.)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 13, 2014, 08:54:17 pm
Rai jumps back as the goo gets closer and says, "I don't think we can wait. We may need to damage the bones to stop these creatures rampage. I respect the dead but these things are destroying the villigers crops and I cant allow that. Yuki would a mass dispell stop these things?"  Rai asks as he lifts up a spear prepareing to throw it at the horde.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 13, 2014, 09:00:42 pm
"Probably... But they're too spread out, and I don't have the energy to dispel so many." Yuki replies.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 13, 2014, 09:03:22 pm
"Can't the water elemental Funnel them somehow?" Rai asks.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 13, 2014, 09:14:32 pm
Roka sighs.

"Yuki, cleanse the bodes. And then, make sure I don't die after this." Roka then says, as he suddenly exerts his body, far, far beyond what a normal human should, going into exhausted for two born leader surge, regains his former state with 2 surge, does the same thing again, gaining a total of four surges, and then, burns his body, collapsing as he gains another 3 surges. (Total of 7 born leader surge).

"Yuki! Do it!" He shouts, giving all his surge to her.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 13, 2014, 11:56:14 pm
Miya backs up a little as she continues to Multi-Shot arrows, making sure there is at least One for Each of the bonemen.
 "If the muck is poison then why don't all the fist-fighters head to the village? Yuki, Jenna, and I can take care of these creatures or at least hold them off until the village is safe again."

[Use Flight follows the Eye too if it will make a difference.]
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 14, 2014, 12:01:40 am
Unsure of what to do now, Udinosaur flies, spending 3-4 surges to pick up small boulders to drop on the skeletons multiple times.

OR, if this could possibly work, Udo begins to Neutralize the Acidic Poison, using necessary surge to do it swiftly and effectively on the entire area.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 14, 2014, 01:19:25 am
Roka sighs.

"Yuki, cleanse the bodes. And then, make sure I don't die after this." Roka then says, as he suddenly exerts his body, far, far beyond what a normal human should, going into exhausted for two born leader surge, regains his former state with 2 surge, does the same thing again, gaining a total of four surges, and then, burns his body, collapsing as he gains another 3 surges. (Total of 7 born leader surge).

"Yuki! Do it!" He shouts, giving all his surge to her.

Yuki nods at Roka's command and attempts to take care of the skeletons.

First she casts Suppress Toxins with a surge point to make it an area of effect.
Then she casts Suppress Toxins again with another surge point to make it an area of effect.
Then she uses three surge points, one to make another action, one to cast Suppress Toxins, and another to make it area of effect.
Finally she uses a surge point to make another action, fatigues herself to cast Suppress Toxins again, and uses Roka's last surge point to make it area of effect again.

She then hopes that this all works out...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 14, 2014, 04:53:40 pm
Between Rai chucking a spear and Lee, Jenna, and Miya shooting arrows - Miya neatly placing one arrow into each stickman one after the other - five of the twenty one remaining skeletal stickmen are put down.

Then Udo swoopes down, grabs up a massive boulder the size of a wagon and drops it on top of a single stickman, crushing it into powder.

As this goes on, the Water Elemental begins cleaning up some of the poison, while Yuki over-surges (with Roka's self sacrifice) to neutralize all of it in the entire field - and Udo seeing this, joins in - surging to add his own earth-cleansing power to the effort.

In a moment, all the black goo abruptly changes into a white steam and evaporates from off the bones and surrounding area.

The Stickmen totter around for a few seconds - then all at once clatter apart.

The Samurai have defeated the evil Wujen Jan Xian and saved the Village - or at least most of it after the fire finally goes out...

---

(OOC: Combat is over! Don't forget to loot the bodies haha!)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 14, 2014, 05:28:25 pm
"Quickly Water Elemental, go put out the fire in the village!" Yuki commands now that the skeletons have been dealt with. She then takes a seat to catch her breath, quite tired after the fight.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 14, 2014, 06:11:50 pm
"Great job everyone! Udo turn back to normal and heal Roka. Yuki go to the wujen and see what he had on him and if it is of any intrest." Rai says as he goes to where the demon was and looks for his sliver knives.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 14, 2014, 06:15:23 pm
Roka simply sighs, after seeing that the zombies were gone.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 14, 2014, 07:25:26 pm
Udinosaur shrugs at Rai, and decides not to turn back to regular Udo for now.

Swooping down to the ground and standing upright, he tries to put a wing on Roka. Meditating, he tries to Revitalize Roka with a touch.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 14, 2014, 11:50:22 pm
Miya lets her guard down slightly now that the creatures are gone. She does however look at the village and begins to move in that direction.

 As she does so she looks back at her fellow Samurai.
"Come on, the village is not yet saved. We must hurry to put out the fires."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 14, 2014, 11:52:46 pm
Roka nods, as he stands up, exhausted, after Udo revitalized him.

"Miya, we can't do anything that Udo and Yuki can not do." He sighs, still breathing heavily.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 15, 2014, 01:46:08 am
Confident the rain and water elemental can save the village, Yuki walks over to the dead Wu-Jen and inspects him.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 15, 2014, 10:37:51 am
Roka nods, as he stands up, exhausted, after Udo revitalized him.

"Miya, we can't do anything that Udo and Yuki can not do." He sighs, still breathing heavily.

Miya slows down, still looking at the village with sadness.
 "But, there must be something we can do to help them..." She eventually turns around and heads to Yuki and the fallen Wu-Jen.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 15, 2014, 11:36:24 am
Using a surge to Animal/Human speak, Udinosaur pipes up, "Maybe we can evacuate the villagers?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 15, 2014, 03:09:29 pm
Turning his oddly shaped head, trying to see if any of his team-mates are gonna help, Udo flies to the village, trying to save those who are trapped in burning huts already.

Thinking about it, they'll probably be freaked out by a Pteranodon. But Udo can speak Nipponese to them, so hopefully they won't run away from him.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 15, 2014, 04:35:17 pm
With the deluge pouring down on the village and the water elemental striding now into it, the fires are quickly put out. The water is coming down so hard that the streets are flooding and folks are beginning to fear the river will rise out of its banks.

Udo meanwhile, flies up onto a house top and watches as the villagers shriek in panic and begin fleeing away. They do not seem interested in trying to hear what the giant flying reptile has to say over the din of falling rain.

Out in the fields meanwhile, the excavation site also begins to flood, and the Samurai realize that all their laborers are now gone. Only the teamsters responsible for driving the bone carts and the soldiers remain.

At the dead Wu-Jen, Yuki and Miya discover the evil venom-dripping dagger, a small magical mirror of some kind in a silver frame, a lustrous black pearl of arcane disposition, set in a gold imperial dragon claw, and a small bamboo flute (also magical).

Scattered across the field, where the Kenku fell, are a total of thirty two magical silver arrows.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 15, 2014, 04:44:06 pm
Yuki stops the rain now that the fire is out. She attempts to command the water elemental to get rid of the water that had begun to flood the excavation site and the town.

If she's able to, she'll try and determine what magical properties the shiny new objects have.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IVi
Post by: cool74 on July 15, 2014, 04:54:17 pm
Rai having collected his weapons runs to the village to begin helping the people who are trapped and/or drowing.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 15, 2014, 04:56:37 pm
Udo frowns, but seeing how the villagers are (rightfully) afraid of a talking dinosaur, he considers morphing back. But then he realizes then he'd be naked, and it'd be even more doubtful of them to be okay with THAT.

So he sees if anyone is in such an extreme crisis that they won't mind him, and if there isn't any he'll just have to head back, unmorph and get some clothes on.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 15, 2014, 05:44:16 pm
Yuki stops the rain now that the fire is out. She attempts to command the water elemental to get rid of the water that had begun to flood the excavation site and the town.

If she's able to, she'll try and determine what magical properties the shiny new objects have.

"Interesting looking items, are they safe to touch Yuki?" Miya asks as she pulls out an arrow to tap each item in turn.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 15, 2014, 07:15:09 pm
"Interesting looking items, are they safe to touch Yuki?" Miya asks as she pulls out an arrow to tap each item in turn.

"Sure, hehe. In fact, you should take some of these arrows." She remarks, pointing to the lightning arrows. Yuki then picks up the pearl, since she's the only person who actually gets a benefit from it.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 19, 2014, 03:28:22 pm
With the fire out and the rain being dismissed and the huge flying reptile gone, the villagers finally recover their wits about them enough to stop fleeing and return to the village and the fields to begin cleaning up the mess and all of the dead.

As they haul the bodies of the dead laborers away, it occurs to the Samurai that now only the villagers are left to place that particular burden upon - unless they want to impose it on their teamsters and soldiers (which would be a serious dishonor to them)...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 19, 2014, 03:37:11 pm
Rai looks to the villagers having to clean up the dead and looks to one of the soilders and calls him over. Rai says, "Soldier go back to Sendi and inform the Exalted Patriarch Yasuo Sanjo and Master Wu-Jen Yunikawa of what happened here. Request more laborers and did not inform anyone else of the battle or what was said other then the two people I just  specified."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 19, 2014, 04:03:12 pm
"As you wish," the soldier replies.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 19, 2014, 08:41:54 pm
Roka shakes his head.

"No. There are enough villagers for this work. We shall just gather them up, and be done with it."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 19, 2014, 09:25:37 pm
Roka shakes his head.

"No. There are enough villagers for this work. We shall just gather them up, and be done with it."

Rai nods and says, "Yes but the High priest and Master Wu-jen need to be informed about what happened at the very least."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 19, 2014, 09:29:13 pm
"Nope. If anyone knows, we die, along with these soldiers, and this village. We keep this event hidden, we burn this bastard's body," Roka says, spitting at the corpse yet again, "and never mention what happened."

"Story here is that the untouchables rebelled, and we had to kill them. That is all."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 19, 2014, 09:30:03 pm
"I could send a messenger, then." Udo says. "But really, I think they'll notice that the wujen is gone Roka..."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 19, 2014, 09:31:11 pm
"Nope. Again, nothing is mentioned. Do not send your bird." Roka says, command in his voice, even if he is exhausted.

"They will notice his disappearance, but it will take time for them to pin it on us. I will gather ties, and we will survive, but I need time to do so."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 19, 2014, 09:36:01 pm
Rai thinks about it and says, "I guess but we need to get the villagers and soldiers under our command to agree to it."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 19, 2014, 09:37:36 pm
Rai thinks about it and says, "I guess but we need to get the villagers and soldiers under our command to agree to it."

Roka chuckles.

"Rai, when have I ever had trouble convincing anyone aside from you to do something?" He asks with a smile.

"Heck, look at Udo, ha ha!"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 19, 2014, 09:38:00 pm
Udo scratches his head and sighs, but continues,
"But..." Udo breathes, "It was Yunikawa who told us to do this. Unless he wants us dead too, he's on our side!"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 19, 2014, 09:40:56 pm
Roka chuckles.

"Rai, when have I ever had trouble convincing anyone aside from you to do something?" He asks with a smile.

"Heck, look at Udo, ha ha!"

Rai smirks and says, "Well somebody needs to be around to question you." Looking at Udo Rai says, "Yuikawa? I wouldn't trust him not to use this info and turn us in to gain favor."

Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 19, 2014, 09:42:46 pm
"Rai, he's the freaking retired Wujen. He doesn't need favors." Udo stubbornly replies.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 19, 2014, 09:49:16 pm
"We can worry about this later. We have only one problem though." Roka says, as he points at Lee.

"We can't trust him. He isn't Nippon, and he will sell us out instantly. Ichiro, kill him." Roka orders simply, as his student rushes towards the Korean and stabs at him with his weapon.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 19, 2014, 09:54:27 pm
"Roka!" Udo says, "Ichiro, wait a second. Apprehend him, don't kill him!.. I dunno man..."

He looks around and scratches his head. "And the villagers are gonna be questioned, and no way in hell, maybe China, but no way in hell should we do that."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 19, 2014, 09:57:05 pm
Ichiro doesn't hesitate, cause Roka's the master dude.

Roka then turns to Udo.

"What do you mean?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 19, 2014, 09:59:25 pm
"Since, um, the Wujen guy we just killed went here. I have no doubt the Emperor or whatever is going to ask around what happened. And, well, the villagers existed when this happened. I don't they're blind."


He sighs, "And what about Shogota's men? They were just doing they're duties. I don't think we should kill them either."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 19, 2014, 10:01:24 pm
"They would die if they admitted to this. The emperor will not find out for a little while if we keep this hidden. I doubt Jan Xian told the emperor what he was going to do, as he appeared right as we reached the skeletons."

"Shegota's men I can trust, as they are Nippon."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 19, 2014, 10:04:29 pm
"And as they are Nipponese, they realize they have a duty." Udo adds on in a whisper to Roka, "And I dunno if they'll follow Rai. But it may be worth a shot. I just don't know, man. If they don't then we're done."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 19, 2014, 10:07:58 pm
"And as they are Nipponese, they realize they have a duty." Udo adds on in a whisper to Roka, "And I dunno if they'll follow Rai. But it may be worth a shot. I just don't know, man. If they don't then we're done."

Roka returns in a whisper.

"No need. If they reveal the truth they also die."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 19, 2014, 10:12:43 pm
Roka returns in a whisper.

"No need. If they reveal the truth they also die."
"Isn't the whole deal with being a samurai is that at least we-- they, die with honor?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 19, 2014, 10:15:29 pm
"Isn't the whole deal with being a samurai is that at least we-- they, die with honor?"

"Of course. And what better honor is there compared to reconquering Nippon? We hide this event for a short while, and every magistrate in the Sendai province will be on our side, along with our Daimyo." Roka whispers back with a smile.

"We even have a figure head."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 19, 2014, 10:17:36 pm
"We even have a figure head."
"I already noted that. We just have to hope they believe us and all of them are loyal. And what about the villagers?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 19, 2014, 10:40:57 pm
Rai hearing the Daymio comment says, "If you guys are now on my side I have something to tell you about our Daymio."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 19, 2014, 11:57:47 pm
"Rai, remember I'm on Nippon's side." Udo states, "What is it?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 19, 2014, 11:59:02 pm
Roka raises his hand.

"Not right now."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 20, 2014, 08:28:15 am
"Why not now?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 20, 2014, 01:32:03 pm
As Roka, Rai, and Udo talk, a scuffle ensures as Ichiro tries to take out the Korean Lee.

Lee jumps back and Fatigue Surges to fire Rain of Shooting stars right into all of the Samurai.

At least this time, he did it on purpose...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 20, 2014, 01:35:32 pm
"Goddammit Roka." Udo says, doing a defensive action before bum rushing (with whatever surge necessary) at Lee quickly.
(2surges to act ASAP)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 20, 2014, 01:36:22 pm
"Roka you are an idot sometimes. I also see no reason to kill him." Rai says as he uncanny doges the arrows.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 20, 2014, 01:37:54 pm
Roka simply shrugs.

"It's not like it'll actually hurt us." Roka says with a shrug, allowing whatever arrows come his way to hit him. His body is rock solid.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 20, 2014, 05:46:56 pm
Yuki uses two defence actions to dodge the arrows, but remains silent. She doesn't see a reason to kill the korean, but she isn't exactly against it either.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 20, 2014, 06:27:39 pm
Miya watches the entire event up until Ichiro goes to kill Lee. "These deaths are unnecessary..." She takes aim at Ichiro and fires as many arrows as needed until either Lee or Ichiro is dead or the battle is stopped.

[Use AF's: Flight follows the Eye & Uncanny Shot, 2 surges.]
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 21, 2014, 05:04:57 pm
Udo surges forward and slams Lee back twenty feet – causing him to shoot up into the sky, rather than into the Samurai.

With no more Surge and now Exhausted from the effort, Lee just shoots an arrow at Udo (since he is now closest). The arrow punches through the top of Udo’s foot and momentarily pins it to the ground for 10 Damage.

Ichiro meanwhile, follows Roka’s orders and attacks Lee, but is deflected by Lee’s bow.

Miya then shoots Ichiro in the head for 15 AP Damage straight to Wounds. Ichiro burns a Luck for half damage and spins away just in time to lose an ear rather than get impaled through the noggin.

---

(OOC – Ichiro will continue to attack; Lee will continue to shoot; everyone else?)
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 22, 2014, 06:50:40 am
Udo winces, stomping his foot around to ease the pain. "Dammit Lee..." I'm trying to take you alive...

Using an Earth Power surge (I'm assuming he can use those for this), Udo sends his Squirrels to swarm the Korean. His nasty little buddies are really just that, they'll stop Lee but they won't kill him. And Ichiro is probably gonna stop when he realizes that Miya's gonna kill him.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 11:57:14 am
Roka glares at Miya, before shouting to Ichiro.

"Move away!"

He then refers to Miya.

"You dare attack my student when he is following my orders?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 22, 2014, 01:58:01 pm
"I protect those who do not deserve to die and deserve our mercy! Something you seem to have forgotten about our code of honor Roka..."
 She snaps at him while lowering her bow but not putting away the strung arrow on it.

"Lee does not have to die because you believe he might betray us."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 02:01:52 pm
"I protect those who do not deserve to die and deserve our mercy! Something you seem to have forgotten about our code of honor Roka..."
 She snaps at him while lowering her bow but not putting away the strung arrow on it.

"Lee does not have to die because you believe he might betray us."

Roka simply glares.

"My code that I swore did not involve keeping a hazard for Nippon alive, Sugai. Our lives are more important then his."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 02:21:04 pm
Rai in a fit of rage tired of this arguing shouts, "Miya put down the bow. Roka call of Ichro or I swear to god I will kill you myself. Udo call of the squrialls and Lee if you try to shoot anyone else I will let Roka kill you!"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 02:27:45 pm
Roka blinks.

"I already did, Rai."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 22, 2014, 02:35:15 pm
Rai in a fit of rage tired of this arguing shouts, "Miya put down the bow. Roka call of Ichro or I swear to god I will kill you myself. Udo call of the squrialls and Lee if you try to shoot anyone else I will let Roka kill you!"

Miya stands down but remains glaring at Roka.
 "I'd rather not kill anyone unless I have too." She mutters to herself.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 22, 2014, 02:35:50 pm
Udo shrugs, and doesn't bother calling his squirrels off.

"My foot hurts."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 02:38:30 pm
Udo shrugs, and doesn't bother calling his squirrels off.

"My foot hurts."

Rai glares at Udo and says, "If you do not call of the squirrals I will kill them slowly in front of you." As he pulls out one of his knives and aims it.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 22, 2014, 02:40:56 pm
"Rai, don't you farking dare. If you do, then Bleach and I will just have to maul you, as you'd have killed part of my adopted family." Udo warns, eyes moving to Bleach and back.

"And I really, really don't want to man. Nor do I want to kill the Korean."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 02:43:42 pm
"Rai, don't you farking dare. If you do, then Bleach and I will just have to maul you, as you'd have killed part of my adopted family." Udo warns, eyes moving to Bleach and back.

"And I really, really don't want to man. Nor do I want to kill the Korean."

Rai glares back and says, "Then call them off the Korean is not a threat."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 22, 2014, 02:45:05 pm
"What makes you think I can control them now?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 02:45:26 pm
"Rai, who cares? They are a bunch of squirrels." Roka says, incredibley confused that Rai is willing to annoy an Earth Ward just to save the Korean from small animals.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 02:54:27 pm
Rai then says, "If you really believe he will betray us then we can keep him imprisoned. But killing him now is a waste." lowering his knives.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 02:56:00 pm
Rai then says, "If you really believe he will betray us then we can keep him imprisoned. But killing him now is a waste." lowering his knives.

"How is it a waste?" Roka replies. "I know he will betray us. But, if you or Miya doubt that, then fine. Keep him alive. But do not blame me when the Chinese arrive and kill us all."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 22, 2014, 02:56:22 pm
Udo glares at Rai, "If you believe that my squirrels are murderers, then you'd think you wouldn't have threatened them."

Watching his squirrels advanced Udo continues, "I've noted it before, I don't think killing the Korea is the best plan right now, but leaving him around to loiter won't help either."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 03:05:54 pm
"How is it a waste?" Roka replies. "I know he will betray us. But, if you or Miya doubt that, then fine. Keep him alive. But do not blame me when the Chinese arrive and kill us all."

Rai in fusturation says, "The Chinese killed his mother. I am not saying to let him wonder free but to keep him under gaurd. You shouldn't kill someone outright."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 22, 2014, 03:09:36 pm
Rai in fusturation says, "The Chinese killed his mother. I am not saying to let him wonder free but to keep him under gaurd. You shouldn't kill someone outright."

"I say we finish up here, tie up Lee and leave this place before we deal with any more problems."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 22, 2014, 03:10:24 pm
Udo Kuwabara frowns, "And go where?
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 03:12:34 pm
Rai in frustration says, "The Chinese killed his mother. I am not saying to let him wonder free but to keep him under gaurd. You shouldn't kill someone outright."

Roka looks incredulous.

"You'd think a Korean would care if the people who give him riches are his parent's killers?" Roka asks, and then shrugs.

"Fine, let him live. I'll go gather up the villagers to have them dig up the rest of the bones."
Udo Kuwabara frowns, "And go where?

"Back to Sendai. I have friends in high places, and we still need to send back Kioko."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 03:13:46 pm
Udo Kuwabara frowns, "And go where?

Rai respones, "I doubt that anyone other then the people in this village, the soldiers and us know what happened here. We can just go back and act like it didn't happen or try and gain favor with Uncle." Looking at Roka, "Seeking favor from our Daymio will not help."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 22, 2014, 03:15:27 pm
Rai respones, "I doubt that anyone other then the people in this village, the soldiers and us know what happened here. We can just go back and act like it didn't happen or try and gain favor with Uncle." Looking at Roka, "Seeking favor from our Daymio will not help."

"I'd rather avoid the Daimyo if possible right now."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 03:16:07 pm
Quote
Rai respones, "I doubt that anyone other then the people in this village, the soldiers and us know what happened here. We can just go back and act like it didn't happen or try and gain favor with Uncle." Looking at Roka, "Seeking favor from our Daymio will not help."

Roka blinks yet again.

"Why not? Mind you, I wasn't specifically referring to the daimyo, but..."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 03:18:26 pm
Roka blinks yet again.

"Why not? Mind you, I wasn't specifically referring to the daimyo, but..."

Rai looks at him and says simply, "He's a Rokurokubi"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 22, 2014, 03:19:24 pm
Roka blinks yet again.

"Why not?"
"Since he serves the emperor, who probably wants to kill us. Or something." Udo says, taking a deep breath.

Rai looks at him and says simply, "He's a Rokurokubi"
"Um, that doesn't sound too good. But what is that, and how do you know?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 03:21:08 pm
Rai looks at him and says simply, "He's a Rokurokubi"

Roka flushes red with anger.

"Don't you dare blaspheme the Daimyo's name, Rai."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 03:22:24 pm
"Since he serves the emperor, who probably wants to kill us. Or something." Udo says, taking a deep breath.
"Um, that doesn't sound too good. But what is that, and how do you know?"

Rai sighs and says, "Did you already forget my explanation from earlier? Also Yuki told me, in a way."

Roka flushes red with anger.

"Don't you dare blaspheme the Daimyo's name, Rai."

Rai looks at him and says, "I know it is hard to hear but it is the truth."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 22, 2014, 03:25:07 pm
Rai sighs and says, "Did you already forget my explanation from earlier? Also Yuki told me, in a way."

Rai looks at him and says, "I know it is hard to hear but it is the truth."

"Hmmph." Miya's eyes cross in anger. "That would explain why he is such a monster. We should reveal it's true form as soon as possible."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 22, 2014, 03:25:56 pm
"Rai, answer straight. What the hell are you on about?"

Udo turns to Miya, scratching his head, "Umm, speaking about things makes it better. I've heard."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 03:28:01 pm
"Rai, answer straight. What the hell are you on about?"

Udo turns to Miya, scratching his head, "Umm, speaking about things makes it better. I've heard."

Rai looks at Miya and says, "She doesn't need to say anything."

 
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 22, 2014, 03:29:13 pm
"Rai, answer straight. What the hell are you on about?"

Udo turns to Miya, scratching his head, "Umm, speaking about things makes it better. I've heard."
Rai looks at Miya and says, "She doesn't need to say anything."

"It's a personal matter, but the Daimyo and I have some issues to settle that can only end in blood. That's all I'm going to say."
 Miya frowns as she explains to Udo.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 22, 2014, 03:31:28 pm
Rai looks at Miya and says, "She doesn't need to say anything."
"She doesn't need someone speaking for her, either. I think." Udo replies, now looking back at Rai.

"It's a personal matter, but the Daimyo and I have some issues to settle that can only end in blood. That's all I'm going to say."
 Miya frowns as she explains to Udo.
"Fine then. But I still want to know why Rai thinks the Daimyo is a Rokurobi."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 03:33:02 pm
Looking back at Udo Rai says, "As I explained last time, Rokurokubi are Demons who have the head of the human used to make them. They eat human flesh and can appear ordinary to most people. Except they can't be seen in spirit sight. They Float and have there bloody entrails attached to there head. Yuki and the Majistrate had a conversation after the tournament last year. Where she asked him about not seeing the Daymio in spirit sight. Incedently I" Rai looks away and says,"overheard this conversation. After that I was much more cautious around the Daymio it was also when I told Miya I would help her."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 22, 2014, 03:36:23 pm
"Since when did you study the Occult? You'd think Yuki would realize it, not you. Um, no offense meant right now." Udo says back, trying to make sense of the situation.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 03:38:13 pm
"Since when did you study the Occult? You'd think Yuki would realize it, not you. Um, no offense meant right now." Udo says back, trying to make sense of the situation.

Rai sighs and says, "I have allies that let me know to watch out for them among the Daymios and upperclass."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 03:45:19 pm
Roka takes a step back.

"Realize, that the only reason I will not report you is for fear that they will investigate and find out what happened here. I suggest you do not mention this without proof, aside from the information of your allies." Roka says, slowly. Rai probably realizes that right now was perhaps the worst time to introduce this fact to Roka.

"I will settle the matter with the villagers. It should not take much time, and then we will go." Roka then adds, as he looks at Miya.

"It is disappointing to hear this from you, Miya. Especially from you." He then says to the archeress, sighing.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 03:54:14 pm
Roka takes a step back.

"Realize, that the only reason I will not report you is for fear that they will investigate and find out what happened here. I suggest you do not mention this without proof, aside from the information of your allies." Roka says, slowly. Rai probably realizes that right now was perhaps the worst time to introduce this fact to Roka.

"I will settle the matter with the villagers. It should not take much time, and then we will go." Roka then adds, as he looks at Miya.

"It is disappointing to hear this from you, Miya. Especially from you." He then says to the archeress, sighing.

Rai looks at Roka and says, "Report it to who? The Daymio? The one being accused of being a demon. The Daymio has most likely been dead for years and now has a demon taking his place. Yuki please tell Roka what you saw in your vision and at the tournament when you looked at the Daymio.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 04:00:39 pm
"Shut up Rai. If it was only my life that was on the line, I would report you in a second. But the rest of the team need not die, and for that, I will not inform the magistrate of your claims." Roka states, slowly.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 22, 2014, 05:35:32 pm
Lee meanwhile, savaged by a dozen small teeth, finally collapses from the exhaustion. The squirrels, no longer finding any fun in nipping at the now unconscious man, scamper back to Udo and begin to groom the blood from the fur around their mouths...

Something about the squirrels all doing this together so nonchalantly, makes them seem disturbingly sinister for some reason.

As this goes on, Jenna just sits back and soaks in the conversation going on around her.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 22, 2014, 05:35:42 pm
Yuki ponders over everything that has been said. Unfortunately, what Rai said could be true. If the Wu-Jen Jan Xian turn the Generals from this battle into Rokurokubi, then turning their Daiymo into one after his defeat, as dishonourable as that would be, would be possible as well. The Chinese don't seem to interested in honour though.

Yuki calmly looks at Rai and nods. "It's possible. At the tournament I was unable to read our Daiymo's aura, and if the Wu-Jen Jan Xian turned our generals from the way into Rokurokubi, then turning our Daiymo into one is possible as well..."

"But it's only possible. Rai, before I believe such a thing, you must prove it." She says reluctantly, not wanting to admit this could be the case.

Yuki then looks at Miya, and ponders over what she should say, but ultimately chooses to say nothing.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 05:38:55 pm
Looking at Yuki Rai says, "Is there a way to prove it other then the one I have stated?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 22, 2014, 05:39:30 pm
"It could be proven," Jenna says, "the Rokurokubi need to soak in vinegar at night. Anyone who was one, would have barrels of the stuff in their private chambers."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 22, 2014, 05:42:05 pm
"It could be proven," Jenna says, "the Rokurokubi need to soak in vinegar at night. Anyone who was one, would have barrels of the stuff in their private chambers."

Rai then says, "Perhaps but he is with the Emperor now. No way would he leave that evidence here as he was away."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 22, 2014, 05:47:20 pm
"Perhaps," Jenna says with thoughtful look, "but then Yuki didn't need any evidence of the battle that happened here long ago to make this field tell her about it..."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 06:47:38 pm
Roka nods at Jenna.

"Then do what she says. I have no doubt you'll find no trace of vinegar barrels. Ridiculous." Roka says, muttering the last part, and then begins to walk to the village.

"I'll take care of making them dig up the bodies. Just make sure nothing else happens to them."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 22, 2014, 10:20:37 pm
Miya walks quickly to Roka's side.
 "Do you remember the bath house when you wanted to talk to me? Well, my reasons to kill the Daimyo are connected to how I gained this scar and lost my father."

She puts her bow away as she continues.
 "I've sworn to avenge my father's death and bring back the honor that was lost to my family. Rokurokubi or not, he needs to die. I don't care if you are not willing to help me in this but I swore an oath to serve Nippon and not the Daimyo the day I became a Samurai. I've worked my whole life to find out if the Daimyo was the one who attacked my family and so far the answer has been yes."

"Now is there anything I can do to help with the villagers?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 22, 2014, 10:51:53 pm
Miya walks quickly to Roka's side.
 "Do you remember the bath house when you wanted to talk to me? Well, my reasons to kill the Daimyo are connected to how I gained this scar and lost my father."

She puts her bow away as she continues.
 "I've sworn to avenge my father's death and bring back the honor that was lost to my family. Rokurokubi or not, he needs to die. I don't care if you are not willing to help me in this but I swore an oath to serve Nippon and not the Daimyo the day I became a Samurai. I've worked my whole life to find out if the Daimyo was the one who attacked my family and so far the answer has been yes."

"Now is there anything I can do to help with the villagers?"

Roka sighs, and shakes his head.

"I can understand your wishes, Miya. Just make sure you find out the truth first, Sugai, as I doubt our daimyo would do that. As for the villagers, no, I should be able to convince them."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 23, 2014, 08:27:14 pm
Roka sighs, and shakes his head.

"I can understand your wishes, Miya. Just make sure you find out the truth first, Sugai, as I doubt our daimyo would do that. As for the villagers, no, I should be able to convince them."

Rai glad they moved on from the Daymio asks Roka. "Hey Roka, I really don't want to turn the entire village into untouchables can we maybe stretch the truth even further. So that the revolt happened after all the bones were grabbed?
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 23, 2014, 08:29:37 pm
Roka blinks.

"Why? Who cares?" Roka asks, confused.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 23, 2014, 08:41:15 pm
Roka blinks.

"Why? Who cares?" Roka asks, confused.

Rai sighs and says, "Because it is a kind thing to do? Because we are partly to blame for them having to touch the bones in the first place? Also if we do this for them they are even less likely to betray us.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 23, 2014, 08:50:03 pm
Rai sighs and says, "Because it is a kind thing to do? Because we are partly to blame for them having to touch the bones in the first place? Also if we do this for them they are even less likely to betray us.

Roka stops.

"Rai, you are asking me to add to the already huge lie, and to hide the fact that these people are untouchables, just to be nice? Rai, they are just a bunch of random villagers. We will never see them again." Roka says with a laugh.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 23, 2014, 09:21:07 pm
Roka stops.

"Rai, you are asking me to add to the already huge lie, and to hide the fact that these people are untouchables, just to be nice? Rai, they are just a bunch of random villagers. We will never see them again." Roka says with a laugh.

Rai shakes his head and says, "It is my duty as the last of the true Emperors line to protect  and care for everyone I can in Nippion. Even villagers I might never see again."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 23, 2014, 10:17:07 pm
Rai shakes his head and says, "It is my duty as the last of the true Emperors line to protect  and care for everyone I can in Nippion. Even villagers I might never see again."

Roka strokes his goatee, and thinks for a bit.

"They are Nipponese. That is true." Roka says, nodding. "That is important to remember."

"Hmph... Fine, I'll try."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 23, 2014, 10:18:10 pm
Rai bows and says, "Thank you Roka."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 25, 2014, 06:42:23 pm
With it decided to employ as many villagers as needed to complete the task set before them, Roka gathered the villagers of Kurokawa to deliver the hard news. They would be doing the work of the dead laborers and digging up the bones of the lost heroes of Nippon in their stead.

At first the Villages balked at the prospect of doing such demeaning work, especially when there were crops to attend to; but after a rousing speech by Roka, employing his Flawless Decorum, and explaining that no one outside of the Village would have to know about it – the villagers began to see it as an honor to even participate in such a magnanimous undertaking.

In fact, the Village Elder and his two Counselors broke down in tears, weeping as they threw themselves down before Roka sobbing – “Thank you! Thank you! Honorable One! Because of you, the spirits of the dead can finally have rest!”

“We will uncover their bones – let them see the light of the sun – to be no more forgotten – and see that they are brought back to their families; to their cities; and to their lords!”
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 25, 2014, 07:10:10 pm
9th Day of Summer 1303
The Strange Well of Damned Souls


Having uncovered the secret of Kurokawa and freeing Nippon from the monstrous sorcerer Jan Xian, the Samurai organized the villagers and began once again to uncover the bones of the fallen heroes of Nippon.

The dig site however, proved to be much larger than anticipated – lying under the entire field Yuki had initially pegged as the battle site. On the 9th Day of Summer, after ten days of digging, an idea of its complete dimensions started to take shape and a rough body count began to be circulated among the awestruck workers.

Having uncovered roughly one fourth of the total area (and pulling nearly a thousand human skeletons form the ground each day), the number of dead (as Yuki had seen) would be close to forty thousand. This then had truly been a desperate and important stand; to have committed so much to one battle.

At this rate (remarkably fast, given all human effort without magic to assist), the Samurai were looking at least another month of effort before the whole site would be excavated and they could return to Sendai.

Then, later in the day, a sudden cry of excitement rang up from the villagers – looking out into the fields, the Samurai could see some of the villagers running towards and them pointing back to the dig – they had found something unusual.

“Honorable Ones!” they said, hastily bowing low at the realization that they had jumped official channels (there’s was to go through Shagota first) – “Forgive our haste to speak to you directly, but we have found something evil buried among the bones – a seal of some kind – fashioned from the moaning steel of the dead!”

As they spoke, Yuki realized that they must have finally dug deep enough to uncover the sealed well that Jan Xian had thrown the bodies of the dead Generals of Nippon down, after killing them and setting their heads free…
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 25, 2014, 07:25:09 pm
"Have everyone leave the digging site for now. We'll take care of whatever evil lurks beneath." Yuki instructs, as she heads out to see the seal herself.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 25, 2014, 08:06:30 pm
Miya quickly begins following Yuki.
 "The size of this excavation is surprising. I didn't expect such a large area."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 25, 2014, 08:45:58 pm
Miya quickly begins following Yuki.
 "The size of this excavation is surprising. I didn't expect such a large area."

Yuki nods in response. "Yes, and there's far more bodies to dig up still. It truly was a large battle that took place here."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 26, 2014, 09:33:53 am
The villagers bow low and hurry to leave the field as Yuki had directed.

The Samurai then move to where the villagers had been digging.

There, in the freshly uncovered earth, was what looked like the top of a four-foot wide stone well, only with the top sealed over by a large plate of soulsteel.

The surface of this dark and magical metal radiated an unnatural cold and was polished to a deep glossy shine. It was almost as if someone could look into the metal itself – and indeed, when one stared at its surface too long, they would begin to see the twisted faces of the dead within.

Yuki, seeing this disturbing phenomenon for herself, activated her Sorcerer's Sight, expecting perhaps to understand the cause. But looking, could see no true spirits about – the ghostly images within had to be some kind of magic and not truly the souls of the dead.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 26, 2014, 01:19:56 pm
"What do you see Yuki? Perhaps I can help."
 Miya activates her ruby and tries to see as her friend sees.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 26, 2014, 01:29:35 pm
Rai looks at the seal and says, "Something tells me that whatever is under there will not be good for anyone."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 26, 2014, 05:33:18 pm
Rai looks at the seal and says, "Something tells me that whatever is under there will not be good for anyone."

"Probably not..." Yuki replies.

"Well, let's open it." She adds, casting dispel magic on the seal.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 26, 2014, 05:51:25 pm
"Probably not..." Yuki replies.

"Well, let's open it." She adds, casting dispel magic on the seal.

Rai jumps back and says, "Dammit Yuki stop being so impulsive."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 26, 2014, 06:11:21 pm
No sooner than Yuki cast Dispel Magic on the soulsteel lid, it flew off in a burst of spiritual energy – and a myriad of unmanifested minor spirits flooded up from the well to disperse in all directions – A multitude of different shapes and sizes, from large lumbering vegetable spirits, to tiny rolling coin spirits, and everything imaginable in between.

The spirits, Yuki observed, must have been caught in the flow of energy from the spirit world into the Spirit Well, but since it was sealed up on this side, they sort of bottled up, until abruptly released.

Moving to the well and looking in, everyone could see that it was full of bones. But unlike those that had already been recovered, there was something different about these.

First, one could tell from the armor and still legible mons, that these were the remains of the Generals of the Armies of Nippon.

But there was something missing – no skulls – and there were scratches and abrasions covering every last bone – they had been gnawed on by human teeth – it was evidence of the cannibalism Yuki had seen.

Then, in sobering realization, the Samurai began to recognize the mons they were seeing. These were the names of some of the current ‘living’ Daimyos in the other Provinces of Nippon. If Yuki’s vision was true, then it meant that many of the Nipponese ruling body under the Chinese, really were ravening monsters in disguise among the oblivious masses they professed to protect!
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 26, 2014, 06:58:51 pm
"This is just wrong. Burying people into a pit just to be forgotten."
 Miya says with a grim voice.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 26, 2014, 08:32:23 pm
Rai looks into the hole and sighs, "It is as we feared. It seems that some of the ruling class is monsters. We need to be careful with these bones. I don't think that anyone other then us should know who these bones belong to..."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 26, 2014, 09:56:46 pm
"Rai, their bodies are of the generals. Everyone will know who their bodies belong to. But that no matter, let's get the villagers to collect these bodies as well..." Roka says, looking around, and, not finding the soldiers or Lee, turns to the group.

"Where are the others?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 26, 2014, 10:23:55 pm
"Rai, their bodies are of the generals. Everyone will know who their bodies belong to. But that no matter, let's get the villagers to collect these bodies as well..." Roka says, looking around, and, not finding the soldiers or Lee, turns to the group.

"Where are the others?"

Rai looks around and says, "I think we been betrayed by the soldiers."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 26, 2014, 10:28:10 pm
Rai looks around and says, "I think we been betrayed by the soldiers."

"Rai, you are quick to blame. I doubt that, especially dice yet would not have been able to move that quickly. They were just here. Miya, Udo, can you guys make some searches?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 26, 2014, 10:31:58 pm
Miya nods as she backs away from the hole.
 "I will search for them. If they are not in danger then I will report back as soon as I spot them."

Miya then moves off to find any trace of them. She decides to head in the direction of the nearest city if she can't find anything, figuring that if they were going to betray the Samurai then they would want to do it as quickly and quietly as possible.

[Use Eye's of the Eagle if I can to help with the Search/Spot Check]
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 26, 2014, 10:38:26 pm
Groaning at the bones of his heroes, Udo immediately begins looking for tracks, using his Unshakeable Tracking Method. Should be easy enough.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 27, 2014, 12:25:22 am
Rai looks at Miya and says, "Hmm hey Miya activate your eye see if there are illusions around us."

Looking back to Roka he says, "You sure you want the villagers to know that many of the Daimyos are dead and some sort of monsters? I think that would cause panic and problems for us. We defintly need to have there bodies come out of there and if possible remove there emblems so that no one but us know who they are. The villagers don't have any idea what could have been there."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 27, 2014, 08:39:29 am
When Miya and Udo go to the part of the Soldier's camp where they were holding the Korean Lee prisoner, they see no one there (including Lee).

A bunch of tracks (presumably the Soldiers) leave the campsite in a rush - and head toward the road leading away from the Village; while a single person's tracks (Lee's?) head right out of the midst of Soldier tracks and into the woods, where they abruptly stop short and are gone...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 27, 2014, 08:43:11 am
"Rai, no one would know. The mons are family names. No one would guess that since their families are the same, they are the same people."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 27, 2014, 11:21:21 am
"Roka, the tracks lead away to the road away from the village. If we were to pursue them, it might be best to do it now."

Taking a deep breath, Udo continues, "As for the Korean, it seems like he was either forcibly carried away by some, err, thing, and disappears into the forest."

Standing up from a crouch, the Forest Ward sighs, and motions to his Tiger Companion, asking it to try to find Lee's scent.
"What should we do now?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 27, 2014, 11:41:05 am
"Hmm... I'd rather find the soldiers instead of Lee. Yuki, can you summon an elemental to carry us and chase them?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 27, 2014, 11:56:51 am
Miya heads back quickly after noticing what Udo was doing.
 "Perhaps a few of us could follow Lee as well? Just to see if we can capture him again; or kill him if needed."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 27, 2014, 12:01:42 pm
Miya heads back quickly after noticing what Udo was doing.
 "Perhaps a few of us could follow Lee as well? Just to see if we can capture him again; or kill him if needed."

"We first move at the soldiers. It should be quick to deal with them, then we search for the bastard Korean."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 27, 2014, 12:04:18 pm
"By then it may be too late." Udo says with a frown, "While some of us may want him dead, having him die in a forest is an insult."

He scratches his head, "My Tiger should be able to find him rather easily, and the catching the soldiers should me too hard with that mouth of yours haha. Perhaps I should quickly try and find him?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 27, 2014, 12:07:19 pm
"By then it may be too late." Udo says with a frown, "While some of us may want him dead, having him die in a forest is an insult."

He scratches his head, "My Tiger should be able to find him rather easily, and the catching the soldiers should me too hard with that mouth of yours haha. Perhaps I should quickly try and find him?"

"Him dying is a good thing, I couldn't care less about how. We don't split the group when we don't have to. Who knows what caused this."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 27, 2014, 03:50:09 pm
"Hmm... I'd rather find the soldiers instead of Lee. Yuki, can you summon an elemental to carry us and chase them?"

"Why? Just have Udo catch up to them and find out where they're going." Yuki replies. "We need to get the villagers back to digging."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 27, 2014, 03:58:22 pm
"They seem or have left in a hurry..." Udo replies with a frown, "While it may end up just being nothing, I doubt it. They're leaving, or have already left. I can catch up to them if needs be, but I'd appreciate backup, as well as someone keeping an eye out for Lee."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 27, 2014, 06:59:39 pm
"Why? Just have Udo catch up to them and find out where they're going." Yuki replies. "We need to get the villagers back to digging."
"They seem or have left in a hurry..." Udo replies with a frown, "While it may end up just being nothing, I doubt it. They're leaving, or have already left. I can catch up to them if needs be, but I'd appreciate backup, as well as someone keeping an eye out for Lee."
Roka sighs

"Alright, Udo, go ahead and find the soldiers. Try and grab Shegota, if you can, and bring him back to us. I'll have Miya look for Lee."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 27, 2014, 07:04:23 pm
Of all people, I think I'm the least suited to do this...

Udo shrugs, "Right, I'll get to it. Uh, Miya, look in the forest area. Lee should be somewhere in there."

With a nod, Udo rides atop of Bleach, and tries to follow the tracks to find Shagota. When he catches up to them, he will try to not make him visible immediately, but will just see what the soldiers are doing.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 28, 2014, 03:58:50 pm
In the forrest, Miya finds no trace of Lee.

Out on the road, Udo and Bleach see two soldiers jogging back towards the Village (headed in Udo's direction).

Shagota and the rest of the soldiers are nowhere to be seen.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 28, 2014, 04:01:17 pm
Udo gets off of his ride and motions to Bleach to circle around them for a surprise attack on signal.

Udo takes a deep breath, and confronts the soldiers, "You two! Where have the rest of Shogota's men gone?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 28, 2014, 04:30:28 pm
Rai being left with Roka and YUki asks, "So while there out what should we do?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 28, 2014, 05:40:20 pm
Out on the road, the two soldiers stop and bow (as per normal protocol), then answer Udo - "We were unable to catch up with the Korean man (or find any sign of him); so Shagota and the others are going on ahead to try to overtake him. The two of us are headed back to report the current situation to Master Roka."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 28, 2014, 05:56:41 pm
But Lee should be found in the Forest?..

Udo pauses, "Ahem, uh, while greatly appreciated, we feel it is unnecessary. May I escort you to ask Shogota to come back? We believe the Korean is closer-by."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 28, 2014, 06:24:12 pm
"Oh?" the Soldiers ask puzzled - "Of course... Master Roka has new information then?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 28, 2014, 06:27:29 pm
"Maybe... Why does Shogota believe the Korean is ahead? Have they examined any tracks?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 28, 2014, 06:52:47 pm
Rai being left with Roka and YUki asks, "So while there out what should we do?"

Yuki tilts her head. "Have the villagers go back to work and watch them?" She asks.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 28, 2014, 09:17:28 pm
Rai shakes his head and says, "Without the soldiers I am not sure I want that many people doing something they dont want to do."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 29, 2014, 04:20:45 pm
"Maybe... Why does Shogota believe the Korean is ahead? Have they examined any tracks?"

"Master Roka alerted us to his escape and told us that he had seen the Korean going down the road," the Soldier replies.

"As we had no idea how the Korean so abruptly managed to escape under our charge, Roka said he would give us the chance to redeem ourselves if we could catch him without his help."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 29, 2014, 04:39:45 pm
Rai shakes his head and says, "Without the soldiers I am not sure I want that many people doing something they dont want to do."

Yuki puts her hand to her chin, seemingly pondering over something for a moment. Then she walks over to the villagers to tell them they can go back to work.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 29, 2014, 05:07:51 pm
The villagers bow low and quickly reassemble on the field to commence digging once again.

Then the Village Elder and his two Advisors meanwhile, ask Yuki, "What would you have us do with the strange metal disk that covered the well?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 29, 2014, 05:41:25 pm
"Master Roka alerted us to his escape and told us that he had seen the Korean going down the road," the Soldier replies.

"As we had no idea how the Korean so abruptly managed to escape under our charge, Roka said he would give us the chance to redeem ourselves if we could catch him without his help."
.... What? Roka would have told us about that. I think?

"That doesn't make sense..." Udo mutters. Suddenly, the. Outdoorsman remembers one of the many awkward conversations the group has and with the foreigner. Udo brings a hand to his face, "Crap... When did 'Roka' tell you this?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 29, 2014, 06:26:27 pm
"It was right after one of the villagers came to tell us that you Samurai were going to see something they had found in the field and that there could be trouble," the soldier replies.

"When we turned back around after hearing the messenger, Master Roka was there, and he scolded us for not keeping a closer eye on the Korean - pointing out that he had just run off."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 29, 2014, 06:29:00 pm
Udo breaths deep, "Alright... To put it simply, I highly doubt that was Roka. The Korean has an skill in facades, as well as being odd."

Udo bites his lip, "The question is, where did he go? Do you know where the imposter went after he scolded you? Uh, additionally, did anybody go to into the forest?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 29, 2014, 06:33:06 pm
The soldiers' faces flush with a sudden realization of their failings.

"GAAH! Uh, no my lord!" they fumble, "He directed us forward and just watched us as we ran down the road... on our wild goose chase..."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 29, 2014, 06:39:35 pm
"Yes, you were duped." Udo Kuwabara responds, annoyed at the current situation. "Quickly now, how long ago was this?"

With a sigh, he continues, trying to maintain an authoritative voice, "Find the rest of your group and get them back here, we need to find him. It... Is probably important."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 29, 2014, 07:15:49 pm
The villagers bow low and quickly reassemble on the field to commence digging once again.

Then the Village Elder and his two Advisors meanwhile, ask Yuki, "What would you have us do with the strange metal disk that covered the well?"

"Hmm..." Yuki begins, "I think I'll investigate it further to decide what it is." She decides.

"Bring it to the side."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 30, 2014, 01:06:01 am
"What do you think it is, Yuki?" Roka asks, wondering about the giant disk.

"Any guesses?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 30, 2014, 04:45:48 pm
"It's made out of soulsteel," Jenna says, looking into the surface to see the trapped 'souls' within.

"Aside from being stronger and lighter than steel, the only other thing it does is record the anguish of those around it. If you look into it, you will see a reflection of the pain it caused the spirits it has come in contact with over time."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 30, 2014, 04:47:39 pm
"Yes, you were duped." Udo Kuwabara responds, annoyed at the current situation. "Quickly now, how long ago was this?"

With a sigh, he continues, trying to maintain an authoritative voice, "Find the rest of your group and get them back here, we need to find him. It... Is probably important."

"It was about twenty minutes ago, sir!" one of the soldiers replies to Udo.

Then bowing, they turn and rush back down the road to try to catch Shagota and the others...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 30, 2014, 04:53:16 pm
20 minutes...
Udo looks to Bleach, and motions to him, "Do you smell his scent anywhere?" (OOC: It says on the lion stats that they track by scent as an edge, so assuming here).

Once again grabbing onto his spirit bonded friend, Udo looks for tracks as he heads back to the forest, unless Bleach smells elsewhere.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 30, 2014, 05:40:23 pm
Bleach takes Udo into the forest where the tracks left the soldiers and then disappeared.

Miya is nearby - apparently lost in thought enough that Udo's arrival startles her a little (*ahem)...

Bleach looks up and indicates to Udo that the Korean man's scent goes up from the ground at this point.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on July 30, 2014, 05:43:31 pm
The Outdoorsman scratches his head, "Oof, hopefully he doesn't know how to fly or something... Haha..."

Biting his lip, Udo looks up to the trees. Perhaps the coward climbed up one, like the squirrels do.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 30, 2014, 06:15:32 pm
"It's made out of soulsteel," Jenna says, looking into the surface to see the trapped 'souls' within.

"Aside from being stronger and lighter than steel, the only other thing it does is record the anguish of those around it. If you look into it, you will see a reflection of the pain it caused the spirits it has come in contact with over time."

"You sure you want to look at it then, Yuki?" Roka asks.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 30, 2014, 06:26:16 pm
"You sure you want to look at it then, Yuki?" Roka asks.

Yuki looks at the plate, then to Roka, back to the plate, then to Jenna, and finally back to Roka.

"Well, if Jenna already knows what it is there's no need. Let's just put it in one of our houses and decide what we want to do with it later."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on July 30, 2014, 06:50:41 pm
Yuki looks at the plate, then to Roka, back to the plate, then to Jenna, and finally back to Roka.

"Well, if Jenna already knows what it is there's no need. Let's just put it in one of our houses and decide what we want to do with it later."

"....Um, I vote that angry spirits don't go into my house." Roka says, with a chuckle.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 30, 2014, 06:52:37 pm
Looking in the trees, Udo, Bleach, and Miya find no further sign of the Korean Lee. He's long gone it would seem.

At length, the Soldiers all come back and the Villagers resume the dig, while the soulsteel lid that was sealing the Spirit Well is tucked away in the house where Udo and his animals are all staying.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on July 31, 2014, 01:00:24 am
"It's likely a birdman had helped or captured him. Regardless, there is not much we can do about it now. We should head back Udo."
 Miya says while scanning the sky for Lee or a birdman.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 31, 2014, 04:41:19 pm
Deciding she could help speed up the digging, Yuki summons a water elemental and orders it to assist with the digging.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on July 31, 2014, 05:44:09 pm
9th Day of Mid Summer 1303
Return to Sendai


With the Spirit Well opened and the mysterious soulsteel lid removed, the work recommenced.

Yuki’s Water Elemental proved handy at saturating the ground and extracting bones from the mud – shaving ten days off the time it took to finish the entire dig. Bones were brought up out of the ground over the next twenty days and the laborers loaded them onto the wagons, which had been brought from Sendai in preparation for their transport.

So many bones there were, that it took four more wagons – commandeered from the Village of Kurokawa – just to contain them all. After being loaded, the bones were then covered under tarps and bound to prevent losing any; as well as to hide them from curious onlookers.

Once everything was ready, the Samurai and company of laborers, with the villagers who had volunteered their assistance, left Kurokawa and traveled back onto the Emperor’s road and up to Sendai. Again progress was slow, taking nine days to reach the Fortress City, but the villagers once more proved up to the task, working hard and pushing themselves much more than the ill-fated untouchables had on the way down to Kurokawa in the first place. Perhaps it was a boon after all that the original group had perished under Jan Xian’s evil hand.

Entering the gates of Sendai and heading directly to the main Shinto Temple, the populace with passing curiosity looked upon the caravan, but was not aware of what lie under the tightly bound tarps. It was best not to cause a scene, nor to speak of the bones, until the Exalted Patriarch Sanjo and his high-priests had been given a chance to properly bless them.

Arriving at the temple proper, the Samurai were met by both the Exalted Patriarch Sanjo and the Wu-Jen Yunikawa (apparently, messengers had already apprised them of their entry into Sendai). Additionally, the Korean man Lee stood behind Yunikawa with the three vampire Samurai-ko that nearly always accompanied the Wu-Jen.

Lee had Rai’s Cloud Flute tucked openly in his sash, as well as a handful of Lightning Arrows in a quiver. Off the ends of his great bow hung thirteen squirrel tails and he actually wore a foxtail off each hip. He glared daggers at Roka but was otherwise calm and Yunikawa seemed to not sense (or perhaps just ignored) the palpable tension in the air between the two.

“Well done!” the Exalted Patriarch Sanjo declared with raised hands, directing the monks and Priests of the temple to take over the handling of the wagons, so that they could be brought into the temple.

“You have brought great honor to Sendai and your family names this day!”

“Yes, a great day it is indeed,” Yunikawa agreed – “But I see from the missing laborers, that it was not without some small cost. Rest assured that it was not a price wasted nor will it be ignored by the Ancestors.”

“Certainly not,” Exalted Patriarch Sanjo interjects – “Your families (and even those of the lost) will be blessed for generations on behalf of this thing that you have done.”

“Nevertheless, I am sure we have things to speak of,” Yunikawa went on, specifically addressing the Samurai – “And, there is the matter of the promise I made with you concerning the little one Kioko.”

“Good good,” Exalted Patriarch Sanjo replied absently, not really listening anymore. He was very eager to get to the care of the bones, as the rituals to cleanse and bless them would take nearly two days – “My Priests will take it from here, you are free of the Temple’s service, as are the laborers and soldiers. If you will excuse me then…”
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on July 31, 2014, 06:11:43 pm
Yuki's ears perk up at the mention of Kioko, as she eagerly waits to hear what Uncle Yunikawa plans to do.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on July 31, 2014, 06:24:23 pm
Rai nods and says, "Yes, "Uncle".  There is much to discuss." Looking to Lee Rai says, "Nice to see you made it back here safe."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on August 01, 2014, 01:44:19 pm
Miya looks to Lee and nods before moving closer to Yuki. "I feel it's best if we wait until we are in a more private setting before discussing Kioko."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on August 01, 2014, 03:26:33 pm
Udo glares at Lee's squirrel tails before shifting his glance back to the Wujen. He nods and bows, but otherwise remains silent in anticipation.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on August 01, 2014, 04:12:10 pm
Roka smiles, and bows to the leaving patriarch, before turning to Yukinawa.

"Thank you for giving us this honor, Uncle."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 01, 2014, 05:21:23 pm
"So then," Yunikawa begins, "I have discovered a tree in the Spirit World that grows golden apples - which are an irresistible treat to the Ki-Rin. When these apples are offered up to the Ki-Rin on a Shinto-blessed silver platter, the Ki-Rin come and you can bid them to carry off to some far-away place in exchange for the gift."

Here Yunikawa motions to one of the Samurai-ko and she takes an ornate silver platter out from under a white silk covering. Careful not to touch the metal herself, she hands it to Roka.

"Here is a Shinto-blessed silver platter," Yunikawa rhetorically points out, "Go and fetch the So-Kitsune child and I shall open a Gate for you to that tree of golden apples. There you can summon the Ki-Rin to carry you all to the Ancestral Palace in the Heavens, where Kioko can finally join the Celestial Host. They will see to sending her home to the timeline where she belongs."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on August 01, 2014, 05:27:49 pm
"Alright. Yuki, bring your mother and Kioko. I assume your mother will want to say goodbye to her."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on August 02, 2014, 01:27:47 am
Yuki bows silently to Yunikawa then leaves to get her mother and Kioko, leaving everyone else to sit awkwardly in silence while she's gone.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on August 02, 2014, 12:48:39 pm
Miya watchs Yuki leave before looking back at Yunikawa. "Excuse me 'Uncle', but I feel it best I be there with Yuki for Kioko, such a sudden change for her will be stressful." She then bows and leaves quickly. Hopefully catching up to Yuki and walking with her the rest of the way.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on August 03, 2014, 09:32:21 am
Roka shrugs, and turns to the Wujen.

"Uncle, is there anything we should know before heading to the home of the ancestors?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 03, 2014, 09:38:01 am
"Just be on you best behavior haha!" Yunikawa laughs, as if visiting the deified overseers of all civilization is no big deal, as long as you don't make waves...

"Oh, and Jenna, would not be welcome there," he adds offhandedly, "so she should probably remain behind on this one."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on August 03, 2014, 12:29:14 pm
Roka chuckles.

"Sorry to hear, my dear. I'll bring you a souvenir." He says to Jenna, before looking back at the uncle.

"How long do you expect us to be there for?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 03, 2014, 03:36:41 pm
"I can't really say," Yunikawa answers Roka, "After all, you were gone almost nine years the last time I sent you off into the spirit world..."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 04, 2014, 05:41:00 pm
At Mama Shirahata’s house, Kioko was overjoyed to finally learn that she would be going home now. Tears welled up in Mama Shirahata’s eyes however; as she had grown to love the perpetually little foxgirl for the near decade that she had cared for her.

Keeping things on a happier note however, she hugged and kissed little Kioko and handed her the schoolbooks that Kioko had originally been found with.

“I love you both,” Mama Shirahata then said to Kioko and Yuki with a smile. Then to Miya, she added with smile, “and you’re not too bad yourself.”

Once final goodbyes had been said, Yuki, Miya, and Kioko, all headed to the Temple of the Ancestors to meet back with Yunikawa and the other Samurai.

Then, with a wave of his hand, the old Wu-Jen Yunikawa tore open a gate in the fabric of reality, leading to an ephemeral sylvan glen overlooking a lush green forest. Nowhere in Nippon looked so green, or vast, by comparison.

"I'll wait for you Roka," Jenna said, indicating that she would not be going with the Samurai this time. Roka smiled, but inwardly wonder how long this was going to take. He doubted that the Ancestor would fancy him summoning a demon to sate his Fiendish Lust up in their heavens, but who knew? Maybe there were some hot Ancestors up there he could hook up with... was that OK? Or would that just be gross (being that there were his Ancestors and all)?

Walking through the portal, the Samurai could see a short strange tree growing in the middle of the glen, hanging over a rocky brook of clear flowing water.

The bark of the tree had the look of red brass and the leaves were tinged with green and gold; while five shiny metallic apples of gold hung from the branches.

“Wow! What is this place?” Kioko asked, as the Samurai walked toward the tree.

No one could say really, other than it was some far away part of the Spirit World – Though words seemed to fail anyone to answer the little girl at the moment.

“Good luck!” Yunikawa called back though the gate – “May the Ancestors receive you well and grant your petition kindly!”

With that, the old mage turned away and the gate closed – leaving the Samurai alone in the eerily beauteous landscape.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on August 04, 2014, 06:06:37 pm
"Well, let's head on quickly. We don't want to take too much time here." Roka says, still carrying the magical plate of blessingness, and motions to Udo.

"Can you get the golden apples?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on August 04, 2014, 06:15:08 pm
Interested, Udo bends down to examine the tree. It would be pretty cool to see if one could plant these in the regular Earth. Perhaps he can get some apples for their seeds, if nothing else...

He looks to Roka and blinks, "Err, yeah. Let me try something here."

Holding his hands out, the Forest Ward tries to manipulate a large vine to safely carry an apple or two much closer to the group. At this point, once can never be too careful.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 04, 2014, 06:34:44 pm
Udo has no problem roping two golden apples with his vines. In fact, he realizes that he didn't even have to push (Surge) himself to do that - as if he is somehow completely in tune with this strange place...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on August 04, 2014, 08:39:32 pm
Keeping Kioko close to her, Yuki investigates the tree, then picks up an apple to see if she notices anything unusual about the apple.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 05, 2014, 04:38:31 pm
The apple is much heavier than a normal one and the skin appears to literally be made of a thin golden foil.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on August 05, 2014, 06:10:06 pm
Unable to resist, Yuki eats the apple.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Fireplay on August 06, 2014, 04:40:15 pm
"Yuki? This is not the time to be eating spirit apples."
 Miya says with caution.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 06, 2014, 04:40:57 pm
Too late Miya -

The golden apple tastes amazing and the metallic foil-like skin actually melts in Yuki's mouth like spun sugar candy. It is simultaneously the most crisp and sweetest thing she has ever tasted.

Other than a nice 'satisfied' feeling that Yuki gets afterwards, the apple appears to have no other unusual properties...
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 06, 2014, 04:43:42 pm
"Hey," Kioko protests, "can I have an apple too?"

"Chirp!" the little chibbi-cloud readily agrees.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on August 07, 2014, 04:42:07 pm
"Hey," Kioko protests, "can I have an apple too?"

"Chirp!" the little chibbi-cloud readily agrees.

Roka looks sadly at the child.

"I'm sorry, Kioko, but if you eat one, we won't have enough to get to your home!" He says. "Or at least, I think so."

Roka then takes the apples remaining from Udo, and puts them on the platter of magical blessing.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on August 07, 2014, 04:46:24 pm
Udo, feeling empowered in the area, frowns at the fact that he'll probably have to leave soon. "Well, this has been pretty easy so far..."
An orchard of these would be very, very neat. If only for their aesthetic value. Udo takes a couple of moments to inspect the tree, trying to figure out where would be the best place to plant it before he speaks.

Seeing how Roka rudefully grabbed his apples, he directs his vines to get 1 more apple, and slips it into his waterproof case. "Uh, how were they, Yuki?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: killa_robot on August 07, 2014, 05:11:42 pm
Udo, feeling empowered in the area, frowns at the fact that he'll probably have to leave soon. "Well, this has been pretty easy so far..."
An orchard of these would be very, very neat. If only for their aesthetic value. Udo takes a couple of moments to inspect the tree, trying to figure out where would be the best place to plant it before he speaks.

Seeing how Roka rudefully grabbed his apples, he directs his vines to get 1 more apple, and slips it into his waterproof case. "Uh, how were they, Yuki?"

"Really sweet and tasty." Yuki answers. She debates eating another one, but figures she probably should eat too many apples from such a tree.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 07, 2014, 05:22:21 pm
As Roka puts the three remaining golden apples on the Shinto-Blessed silver platter, they begin to shimmer slightly and there is a noticeable shift in the direction of the wind.

A moment later, a loud split of thunder is heard and a sudden shower of crackling sparks rains down in the area around everyone – tinking off armor and bouncing across the lush green ground – yet not burning anyone or even singing the blades of grass they cascade over.

This display is then followed by the sound of a majestic whiney, as the clouds above the Samurai part like curtains and out gallops a fiery flaming Ki-Rin with a flowing golden mane. The magical beast has a long single horn and hooves that rain sparks as it gallops through the air; and is followed by a dozen other Ki-rin, all of various sizes – looking much like a family – though the Kir-Rin all appeared to be male.

The Ki-Rin then gallop down in a wide circle around the Samurai – to the astonishment and amazement of little Kioko – before slowing to a trot, as the largest of their number, the leader who had come out of the clouds first, moves over to sniff at the tray of golden apples.

It then eats an apple and gives a snort, after which, two other of the larger Ki-Rin trot over to the tray. As these each munch on one of the remaining apples, the leader of the Ki-Rin moves over to Roka and put its nose under his hand, nickering as it does so. Once the other two Ki-Rin have eaten their apples, they too in turn chose a passenger (Miya and Rai) and stand beside them, waiting.

The littler Ki-Rin meanwhile, all make their way to Kioko and began to playfully nudge at her with their heads, apparently trying to get her to respond to them, but Kioko remains more nervous than receptive to their actions, as if not sure wheather they want to play or are just trying to knock her over.

“They don’t touch the ground,” she observes, taking a step back from them to find safty behind Yuki and Miya – “and their fire doesn’t hurt the ground.” Then seeing that Roka was actually touching one of the fiery beasts, she asked – “It doesn’t burn?”

Roka and the other Samurai meanwhile, could tell that the Ki-Rin were safe to touch, but only because they were being allowed by the Ki-Rin to do so. That, and the Ki-Rin were intelligent and could understand them. Indeed, the Ki-Rin seemed to be able to communicate in a non-verbal way and were even now thanking them for the delicious apples and were ready to take them to wherever the Samurai wanted to go.

Of course, there was the slight problem of there being five Samurai and a little girl, while only three of the Ki-Rin summoned actually seemed to be offering any rides…
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on August 07, 2014, 05:30:03 pm
Udo tries to speak to the uncooperative ones, maybe it'll be easier here too. "Err, uh, Kirin! Is it possible for you to help us?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 07, 2014, 05:34:17 pm
The leader of the Ki-Rin trots over to Udo and noses his bag (where he put the last apple). Udo can tell that the Ki-rin is wondering why Udo is holding out on them.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on August 07, 2014, 05:38:47 pm
"They... This is amaizing.." Roka mutters

"It's like the fire elementals, but just more regal."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on August 07, 2014, 05:43:03 pm
Udo frowns, "I wanted to be able to bring some of this world to my own. To remember, as well as to enjoy.

Not wanting to disrupt the heavenly ecosystem, Udo Kuwabara brings out the waterproof case with the apple (still closed). With a bow, he continues, "If this is, um, wrong, then feel free to take it as well. I only wish to be able to have a link back to a place like this."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on August 07, 2014, 06:13:59 pm
Rai pets the spirt on the head and says in no small amount of amazment, "It seems the Ki-Rin have made the choice of who should come with them. I would be honored to be taken on this trip by such a regal being."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on August 07, 2014, 06:17:18 pm
"Rai, we aren't leaving everyone behind." Roka says, shocked Rai would suggest such a thing.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on August 07, 2014, 06:41:47 pm
"Rai, we aren't leaving everyone behind." Roka says, shocked Rai would suggest such a thing.

Rai looks at him and says, "Unless Udo can convince more of them to take riders. I don't see how we have a choice. We have to take Kioko to the palace of the ancestors. Also we need to speak with them as well. I am sure one of them may know more about the Rokurokubi  hiding in our society and how to defeat them."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on August 07, 2014, 06:52:44 pm
Rai looks at him and says, "Unless Udo can convince more of them to take riders. I don't see how we have a choice. We have to take Kioko to the palace of the ancestors. Also we need to speak with them as well. I am sure one of them may know more about the Rokurokubi  hiding in our society and how to defeat them."

"We'll find a way, we aren't leaving the group by themselves in the middle of nowhere." Roka states.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on August 07, 2014, 06:56:35 pm
"We'll find a way, we aren't leaving the group by themselves in the middle of nowhere." Roka states.

Rai replies, "Alrighty then." Looking towards Udo he asks, "Can you convince that tree to bear more furit or convince the horses to take more people?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on August 07, 2014, 07:02:33 pm
Rai replies, "Alrighty then." Looking towards Udo he asks, "Can you convince that tree to bear more furit or convince the horses to take more people?"
Udo looks at him, dead pan. "Trees can't speak." Yet... Maybe.

He shakes his head, "Talking to the Kirin as we speak, Rai. I mean, really, what do you think I'm saying to them right now?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on August 07, 2014, 07:33:42 pm
Udo looks at him, dead pan. "Trees can't speak." Yet... Maybe.

He shakes his head, "Talking to the Kirin as we speak, Rai. I mean, really, what do you think I'm saying to them right now?"

(UMM How would Rai know that he is talking with the horses?)

Rai looks at udo and says, "I didnt know that however could you not use your powers to accelerate the growth of some of the apples in the tree?"
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on August 07, 2014, 07:37:10 pm
(Because Udo was making funky animal noises XD)

Udo scratches his head, "Err... I don't think so. But maybe. It's not a bad idea but... It's tampering. But, perhaps."
With a nod, Udo once again examines the tree. Can his ForestWard Powers bend nature that far?
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 08, 2014, 04:20:32 pm
Placing a hand on the tree and concentrating (Surge), Udo is able to feel the life force of the tree and direct its flow into four points along its branches.

Slowly, little red buds pop up, blossom, and then swell into four more golden apples.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Not Aman on August 08, 2014, 04:22:04 pm
"Good going Udo!" Roka says, smiling. "You know what to do."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: cool74 on August 08, 2014, 04:24:29 pm
Placing a hand on the tree and concentrating (Surge), Udo is able to feel the life force of the tree and direct its flow into four points along its branches.

Slowly, little red buds pop up, blossom, and then swell into four more golden apples.
\

Rai nods his head and says, "Good job Udo. I knew you could do it."
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: Tanstaafl on August 08, 2014, 04:43:28 pm
What the fark

Udo nervously smiles, "Um, yeah. Thanks for believing in me, Rai." Still baffled, he ropes 3 more apples, offering it to the Kirin in return for carrying them all.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 08, 2014, 06:17:01 pm
Now with plenty of golden apples, Udo took two and placed them on the silver tray.

Two more of the adult Ki-Rin trotted over to nibble up the delicious treats – and strangely, seemed to be racing to see who would finish theirs first. The winner then bolted over to Yuki with a triumphant whiney and the loser more or less moped over to Udo.

Udo meanwhile, eyed the Ki-Rin that had come to him and somehow got the feeling it too was eying him back, as if to complain that Udo was too big and ‘why did it always have to be the one to carry the Sumo guys’.

“I am not a Sumo guy,” Udo stated flatly, as he mounted the magical beast. At that however, his Ki-Rin snorted loudly and the rest of the Ki-Rin seemed to whiney laughingly in response.

“What about me?” Kioko asked, as she saw the Ki-Rin assigning themselves riders and that she was left without. Apparently, the younger Ki-Rin were not going to carry her at all.

Udo then took out another golden apple, but Kioko, fled away from it.

“Oh no, I want to ride with Yuki!” She protested.

Perhaps that was a better plan, since a fall from as high as the Ki-Rin could no doubt fly would kill a person. It wouldn’t do to have Kioko go through that again.

Yuki helped Kioko up in front of her and hopped onto her Ki-Rin’s back. As she did so, she couldn’t help but notice that the little cloud spirit with Kioko seemed extra excited by the prospect of riding on a Ki-Rin and seemed to glow a bit brighter than usual.

Once settled, Kioko smiled; “I like horses, but I never saw one on fire.”

At that comment, the Ki-Rin all whinnied lightly in unison to each other, as if chuckling at the little foxgirl’s innocence.

The Ki-Rin that approached Rai meanwhile, readily allowed him to mount up and stamped at the ground impatiently once Rai was seated. Rai got the feeling that his mount considered itself the fastest and was eager to prove it once the group was on its way. When Rai asked the Ki-Rin its name, the image of wind howling violently down the walls of a canyon came into his mind.

As Miya climbed up on the Ki-Rin that had chosen to serve her, she noticed that the Ki-Rin’s horn was somewhat shorter than the others’. Looking closely, it was apparent that the end of its horn had actually been broken off in some kind of battle – though not too recently.

Roka then mounted the Leader of the Ki-Rin. Once on its back, he noted that the Ki-Rin seemed exceptionally muscular and sturdy, though not too uncomfortable to ride upon. Its long soft mane seemed strong as well, providing a more than adequate handhold, and was a strange mixture of hair and flames.

Asking the Leader its name, Roka saw in his mind an image of colorful streaks of neon light dancing across the cold night sky (the aurora borealis) and he could tell that this was how the Ki-Rin was known among its own kind.

Lastly, Udo mounted up – to the loud groans and wobbly legs of his own mount. Great. He had to have drawn the comedian of the lot…

“Honorable Ki-Rin,” Roka said to the leader, “we seek to visit the Ancestral Palace in the Sky and thank you for your help in this matter.”

Then, when everyone was ready, the leader of the Ki-Rin whinnied loudly and reared back, pawing at the air with its forelegs. A cascade of iridescent sparks flew from its hooves and again the clouds were parted; opening before the Samurai like a curtain.

Kioko gasped in giddy surprise as the Ki-Rin reared up, and Yuki of course shifted her weight appropriately to remain on the beast’s back, but noticed in doing so, that something was holding her and Kioko in place – it was the magical fire of the Kir-Rin that now enveloped them – and Yuki realized that it was impossible to fall off a Ki-Rin’s back, as long as it wanted you to remain there.

Rai’s mount meanwhile, fidgeted and snorted in anticipation of a race, but waited for its leader to enter the sky first. As it did so, the younger Ki-Rin trotted over and crowded around the older Ki-Rin, apparently trying to nudge their way in front of it. Rai’s mount stamped at the ground a few times and then backed up, allowing all of the younger Ki-Rin to line up ahead of it.

At that point the Ki-Rin leader dashed suddenly through the sky and into the clouds, followed by the rest of the Ki-Rin – last of all, Rai’s mount – that seemed to intentionally linger after all the others had passed through the portal.

As they went up, Kioko began to glow softly for some odd reason – though she did not seem to notice the glow herself.

The Ki-Rin meanwhile, took to the air, flying up higher and higher like shooting stars at tremendous speed. As they did so, the younger Ki-Rin broke from the pack and galloped up ahead as fast as they could, until they appeared as little flecks of fire on the horizon.

Then came by Rai’s mount – a blazing fiery streak that shot past like a bolt of lightning – crossing the distance between the Samurai’s mounts and the younger Ki-Rin in the blink of an eye and a moment later doubling that distance again.

Rai meanwhile, had never experienced such incredible speed – It truly was like being a bolt of lightning! When his mount finally slowed and began trotting leisurely through the air to wait for the others, Rai found himself trying to swallow his heart back down from his throat and was wiping the tears from his eyes – that and he was pretty sure his hair was now spiked back…

As the rest of the Ki-Rin climbed to reach Rai’s mount, the Samurai on their backs could look back to see the land growing larger and larger below them. It was an amazing sight, so high above the World; able to see from one side of Creation to the other. But it wasn’t over Nippon, it was somewhere else – a place they had never been, yet somehow hauntingly familiar.

Then, as they continued to climb, the land seemed to shrink away, getting smaller and smaller below them, until it no longer was at all. Lost in an endless expanse of cloud-filled sky.
Title: Re: Mythic Nippon Adventure IV
Post by: BerkaZerka on August 08, 2014, 06:19:15 pm
Once the Samurai had all stepped through the portal, Yunikawa dismissed it and turned to Jenna.

“I trust that your affections for the man were simply ‘business as usual’ and that there are no ‘complications’ or feelings for the poor fool?”

“Of course not Master,” Jenna answered, “he (more so than most men in fact) is easily manipulated.”

“Yes,” Yunikawa agreed, calling forth the terrible four-armed demoness – Kyoso-No-Oni – from the ground before him.

The monsterous creature bowed low to Yunikawa and smiled cruelly, speaking in a voice wholly wicked and corrupt – “It is as thou hast said great master – the Samurai are gone.

Yunikawa then laughed, unable to contain his evil delight any longer – “Ha ha ha ha! The foolishness of youth! Little do they know what they have placed into my hands this day!”

“And with them busy, running that insignificant little girl across the whole of the Spirit World,  there are none powerful enough in Sendai to stop us!”

“Summon the others and prepare for the attack! You know what to do – but leave Exalted Patriarch Sanjo to me – him I will deal with personally.”

---

END