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‘If you do this, a bloodline will end. If you do this, the Empire will be saved.’ The Scorpion Clan Coup was a major event in Rokugan’s history and led directly to the return of Fu Leng and the Second Day of Thunder, as well as the end of the Hantei dynasty. But what if they hadn’t? What if, instead of failing, the Coup had been a success? What if the Crab hadn’t rejected the offer of alliance, but had pledged their support for the Scorpion clan? What would Rokugan be like with a Bayushi emperor? Here’s the scenario: The Coup began as it did in the more familiar Rokugan. Akodo Toturi still managed to survive and flee Otosan Uchi, but when he arrived at the camp of the forces opposing the Scorpion, they refused to follow him, seeing his flight as dishonorable. The lack of leadership for the alliance against the Scorpion wasn’t the only problem they faced, though—they just tand a chance against the forces arrayed against them. Hida Kisada allied with Bayushi Shoju, and the Unicorn, as thoroughly infiltrated as they were by Kolat, saw an opportunity to place a mortal man on the throne. The Mantis provided support in exchange for being named a Great Clan. Shoju met secretly with the leaders of the Phoenix to reveal to them the prophecy he had discovered, as he had done with the kami Togashi, and they agreed not to interfere, at least. Togashi—for the first time—took direct action and sent Dragon forces to support the coup as well. The Emperor was slain, his heir was never found, and the Crane and Lion clans, already at each other’s throats, did not have the leadership or the numbers they needed to retake the city. In the end, they too bowed to Emperor Shoju I. It’s been ten years now since the coup. The Empire is in a state of peace, but a restless, paranoid peace, and beneath the surface there is tension everywhere. The Emperor, under the influence of the bloodsword Ambition, maintains control through fear and paranoia. Bandits and ronin are becoming more and more common, and secret plots and hidden alliances are forming at every turn. The ronin Toturi the Black is out in the countryside somewhere, still fighting a guerilla war against the Scorpion, but he’s about the only one still in open defiance. And this is the Rokugan you’ve grown to adulthood in. The game is set around 1133 in the alternate timeline described above. The breakdown of clans and their current roles is a little different, so I’ll do a quick rundown: • The Scorpion are the current bosses of Rokugan. Shoju’s got them posted just about everywhere, keeping their eyes and ears open and acting as his secret police. Thanks to the bloodsword Ambition, he’s pretty paranoid, so there’s a lot of them undercover as well, sniffing out plots, imaginary or otherwise. • The Crab still man the wall, but they’re not the only ones. As a result of their role in opposing the coup, the Lion and the Crane clans were ordered to provide significant military support to the Crab at the wall—after all, Shoju’s original intention was to prevent the return of Fu Leng, and the Shadowlands threat needs to be put down. The Daidoji and Matsu families have done well on the wall, but the Kakita haven’t fared so well, and the Akodo have been decimated, having been ordered into the thickest battles. As a result of this, though, the Shadowlands forces have been pushed back fairly significantly. • The Crane have found their political clout largely diminished, in addition to the aforementioned military sanctions. They have begun to adapt to the new style of courtly affairs, however, and are beginning to recover. • The Dragon have remained largely unchanged from how they were before the Coup. Togashi’s still reclusive, and whatever his goals are, he keeps his cards close to his chest. At this point in history, the Agasha had not defected to the Phoenix—and there is thus also no Tamori family, since they were an offshoot. • The Phoenix have also largely withdrawn to their own lands, keeping their own counsel and studying magic. As a part of the deal to secure their inaction during the coup, Shoju has allowed them access to a number of secrets, and ordered them to search out any other prophecies like the one he discovered that led to the Coup. As a result the Phoenix aren’t uncommon sights in libraries or temples of other clans, and few dare protest. (Again, note that the Agasha family has not joined the Phoenix) • The Unicorn have taken over many of the duties formerly performed by the Lion clan, and act in concert with the Scorpion to police the Empire • The Lion, like the Crane, are much reduced, and their military might is a memory. They are still proud and more than any other clan have held fast to the old traditions of Bushido, though this has been a detriment under the Scorpion rule. More Lion than any other clan have become ronin in protest of the reign of Shoju. • The Mantis clan, elevated to Great Clan status after the Coup, has quickly absorbed the same minor clans which comprise it in the normal Rokugan timeline, but as a reward for their service during the Coup—meaning there is more resentment between families within the clan, as the Kitsune and Moshi families were forced to join without being consulted, and the Tsuruchi family never liked the Scorpion to begin with. They’re much less unified than they are in the normal timeline, and may not survive long at all if they can’t find common ground. • The other minor clans that existed during the 1130s are still around, though they try to keep their heads down and stay out of sight. It wouldn’t take much for Shoju to grant them to one of the great clans as a reward, the way he did when forming the Mantis clan, or even order them disbanded. The Dragonfly, Sparrow, Tortoise, and Badger clans are around, but very rarely seen outside of their own lands. The Falcon have already been absorbed by the Crab. The Hare have not been reinstated, and the Monkey were never formed. • The Imperial Families of Seppun, Otomo, and Miya continue to operate in the same capacities as they did under the Hantei, though many committed seppuku in protest. The Seppun were hit hard by the coup, and the ranks of the Otomo were thinned out as well by a post-coup purge of any who could claim close relation to the Hantei bloodline. Only the Miya were left alone for the most part. • Ronin are more common now than they’ve ever been. There are numerous small otokodate, but the largest group has formed under Toturi the Black. Aside from his outlawed “army”, though, there’s very little organization among ronin and most fit the image of the solitary lone wolf. • The Naga and the Nezumi are both active during this period. The Naga have largely withdrawn into the depths of the Shinomen Mori, and are distrustful of the Scorpion-ruled Rokugani in the extreme. The Nezumi, on the other hand, are thriving by comparison to their normal numbers, thanks to the extensive campaigning in the Shadowlands—and what’s more, the Crane and Lion have come to see them as valuable allies the same way the Crab have. Nezumi in Rokugan proper aren’t exactly a common sight, but they’re not automatically treated as vermin, either. CURRENT GAMES IN THIS CAMPAIGN: Honor - In which our heroes discover the son of Hantei XXXVIII was not slain during the coup, and work to restore him to the throne. Duty - In which our heroes travel to Crab lands on an inspection tour to root out disloyalty in the name of Shoju I. Compassion - In which our heroes are a group of ronin who band together to become the protectors of a small unaligned village and drive out the gangsters who threaten it. Courtesy - In which our heroes are members of the court of Shoju I. Justice -In which our heroes hunt and destroy maho-tsukai, shadowlands creatures, Bloodspeakers, and other supernatural threats to the Empire. Courage - In which our heroes are members of Toturi's Army. Players in any of the games are welcome and encouraged (though not required) to read any of the other games as they progress. See Also: The Scorpion Emperor: Infrastructure - Gorbash's companion game, now live The Scorpion Emperor: The Akasha is Our Guide - the Naga game, by Dagon Edit, Couple of rulings: Bushi characters can enter a kata free at the beginning of each combat. The optional Honor Roll rule is in play, you may use it once per Miya Shouko excerpt, and it does not refresh till the next time I post a Miya Shouko excerpt. A couple of Kiho have additional rules/restrictions, mostly 8 Direction Awareness or whatever it's called right now. MollyMetroid fucked around with this message at 04:28 on Feb 4, 2014 |
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Jan 18, 2013 02:50
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Eh, working on something else. Still making a monk probably.
Dagon fucked around with this message at 01:19 on Jan 20, 2013 |
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Jan 18, 2013 07:24
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If I were to make a member of the Scorpion secret police, would said membership qualify for the Dark Secret disadvantage? Or would it be more of an open secret?
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Jan 19, 2013 19:44
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Well, I don't know if being a member of the reigning government's network of spies is so much a "dark" secret as it is just a secret. Probably not qualifying for the background.
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Jan 19, 2013 19:53
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 Akki can barely remember his life before the coup - and it wouldn't be something he'd like to relive, even if he could. It'd been hard, full of nights in the rain and days spent begging for even a handful of rice. His father, now Bayushi Hinsen, was a ronin, and the young man had no memories of his mother whatsoever. In his mind, his father was a weak man - the type to scrimp and save for months before blowing all his cash in the sake house or on dice. That all changed one night, of course - for his actions, though not even Akki knows what these actions were, Hinsen was married into a low low low branch of the Bayushi family, bringing his son with him. Akki was not so much wanted by the magistrates as he was unfit for all the other Scorpion schools - he was too blunt to become a courtier or bushi for the Bayushi, and he was too old to join the Infiltrators. Needless to say, he lacked even a spark of magical ability. So the Soshi Magistrates it was. Years later, his absolute devotion to the new regime and his endless ambition had led to him being a model student. During his gempukku, however, it seemed like his story was already over. He'd joined his sensei in hunting down a gang of thieves, but an ambush in the alleyways of the city had left him a prisoner. The thugs had taken a great delight in torturing the boy, even going so far as to carve out his eye. Throughout it all though, he told his captors exactly what he'd do to them when he was rescued and, when he was finally ransomed off, he turned right around and led the magistrates back to the shack where he'd been held prisoner. He was out of commission for a couple of months, but when he was finally deemed 'fit' for duty, it was decided he'd passed his gempukku. Still, a half-blind magistrate, the young man has been sent to a court where he can't really do too much damage if he fucks up - and if he does well, it's a win-win. code:Saith fucked around with this message at 21:43 on Jan 20, 2013 |
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Jan 19, 2013 23:40
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 As a young girl, Haruka seemed destined for greatness among the Moshi. Bright, compassionate, and calm, she exemplified many of the traits valued by the Centipede; her empathy even extended to those far below her station, causing her to become well-liked by the lower castes as well as her fellow nobility. She also learned fast, both in her studies and the proper manner in which to carry herself and other matters of etiquette. Even the omens surrounding her birth and childhood were good, with her having the favor of the fire kami, a sign that was taken as a blessing from Amaterasu herself. With her intelligence and natural talent, she began her schooling to become a shugenja at the age of eight. One year into her training, however, the Centipede Clan was given to the Mantis as a reward for their assistance in the Scorpion Coup. Though skilled at hiding their feelings, the elders' sorrow and anger was plain to Haruka; while she didn't fully understand the situation herself, she did know that changes were being forced upon her clan, and the distress of the others saddened her as well. Unsure of what else to do, she went into town to attempt to speak with the Yoritomo, believing that she could somehow accomplish something. She never found the Mantis or Imperial representatives, but she did meet some of their ship's crewmen, returning to the boats after a night of drinking sake, and she began pleading with them to take her to those in charge. At first they tried to simply walk past her, but she persisted, saying that Amaterasu wouldn't want this to happen. For the sailors, this was the tipping point; they were already under much stress at being surrounded by the strange Moshi, who clearly didn't like them yet were so calm, causing them to suspect that something was being plotted against them, and now a child was, to their sake-addled minds, accusing them of blasphemy. This and the drunken haze caused them to act rashly, and one drew his weapon and struck; when the villagers found Haruka later, she was lying in a pool of her own blood, and her left arm was lying several feet away. Eventually, Haruka was well enough to continue her shugenja training. When she returned, though, she found that things had changed; under Mantis orders, the focus of their teachings had been shifted from fire and the sun to mastery of the weather and storms, so that they could better serve aboard their ships. That the Yoritomo would force them to break their pact with Amaterasu horrified the young girl, and angered her even more than the loss of her arm. This, more than anything else, led her to despise the Yoritomo, as well as Emperor Shoju; no true Son of Heaven would allow such blasphemy, so it was impossible that he could belong upon the throne. Even with the shift in her training and her injury, Haruka did well in her training, passing her gempukku at the age of thirteen. Her passage into adulthood was without event; at first, she refused to wear the colors or mon of the Mantis, but at her elders' insistence (both to avoid potential disfavor and out of fear that she would bring yet another disaster upon herself) she relented. Though, to this day she keeps a kimono with the Centipede colors (and, though only two others have seen it, has the Centipede mon tattooed onto her back). After this, Haruka served her superiors without incident, acting with perfect obedience and loyalty. At first, she worked within Moshi territory, performing the standard duties of a shugenja. After some time, though, she was assigned to tasks away from Amaterasu Seido; she was not only to act as a representative of the Moshi, but also a shugenja of Lady Sun, performing the sacred duties wherever she may be needed. Haruka's duties thus far have taken her across large parts of Rokugan. Her tasks in fulfillment of her duty have not yet gained her much glory among her fellow samurai, though her kindness and willingness to aid even the most lowly eta, as well as some events such as saving a farmer's burning fields, have resulted in her gaining a reputation among the lower classes. However, her travels have had another effect; while the Moshi elders had hoped her journey would cool her rage against the Yoritomo, it has in fact resulted in the opposite. Meeting with Kitsune and Tsuruchi in the same situation as the Moshi, and seeing the acts of those under Shoju's command and how it has destabilized the country, have strengthened her resolve, and unlike before she is now in position to act upon it. pre:Name: Moshi Haruka Rank: 1 Clan: Mantis Experience: 40/40 School: Moshi Shugenja Insight: 127 Earth: 2 Air: 2 Honor: 4.5 Sta: 2 Ref: 2 Glory: 1.0 Wil: 2 Awa: 3 Infamy: 0.0 Water: 2 Fire: 3 Status: 1.0 Str: 2 Agi: 3 Taint: 0.0 Per: 2 Int: 4 Void: 2 Initiative: 3k2 Skill Rank Trait Roll Emphasis/Mastery Calligraphy 1 Int 5k4 Cipher Divination 1 Int 5k4 Etiquette 2 Awa 5k3 Lore: Theology 2 Int 6k4 Meditation 1 Void 3k2 Sincerity 1 Awa 4k3 Spellcraft 3 Int 7k4 Athletics 1 Str 3k2 Courtier 1 Awa 4k3 Defense 1 Ref 3k2 Game: Shogi 1 Int 5k4 Kenjutsu 1 Agi 4k3 Investigation 1 Per 3k2 Advantage Points Balance 2 Elemental Blessing (Fire) 4 Hero of the People 2 Disadvantage Points Missing Limb (left arm) 6 True Love (Moshi Akiko) 3 Techniques Favor of the Sun During the day, gain an additional Affinity for Fire spells. This benefit is lost at night. Free Raise on any spell with the Thunder keyword Spells: Affinity/Deficiency: Air (Fire)/Earth Sense, Summon, Commune Blessed Wind, By the Light of the Moon, Tempest of Air Extinguish, The Fires That Cleanse, Fury of Osano-Wo Equipment Robes, Wakizashi, Tanto, Scroll Satchel, Traveling Pack, 10 koku Mantis, though she resents this. Were you to ask what clan she truly believes she belongs to, Haruka would answer Centipede. Or at least, she would were it not likely to draw unwanted attention to her. To what family does your character belong? The Moshi, devoted followers of Amaterasu. Is your character a Bushi, Shugenja, or Courtier? Shugenja, carrying on Moshi tradition and serving Lady Sun. How would others describe your character's appearance? Though perhaps not "striking", Haruka is rather beautiful, with refined features and a serene, elegant countenance. She exemplifies the calm grace of the Moshi. Though, her missing arm is hard to not notice, and those with sharp eyes will notice the effects it has on the rest of her appearance, such as her hair merely being brushed straight instead of styled and her obi not being tied perfectly, due to the difficulty of attending to those tasks with only one hand. What is your character's primary motivation? Devotion to her clan and to Lady Sun. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? Moshi Akiko, fellow shugenja, longtime friend. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? Haruka's greatest strength is her loyalty, to her clan, her family and those she cares about, and to Lady Sun herself. Her love and devotion are absolute, and she will not falter in her duty to them. Her greatest weakness is her anger. While it drives her to aid her clan, her resentment of the Yoritomo clouds her judgment and leads her to dark action. Hate is a poison, and already it has adversely affected Haruka in many ways. What does your character think of Bushido? She respects and follows it, lamenting that many in these times neglect certain aspects of it, particularly their Compassion to those beneath them. What is your character's opinion of her Clan? Of the Centipede, Haruka sees them as a great and noble clan, possessing a most sacred duty. Though she believes that they deserve greater status for what they do, she understands that being a major clan would interfere with their duties to Lady Sun. Of the Mantis, or at least the Yoritomo, Haruka sees them as little more than pirates and thugs. While she is sympathetic to the Kitsune and Tsuruchi, who are in a similar situation as the Moshi, she has little but scorn for the leaders of the Mantis. Is your character married? No. Her parents believe that, between her noble blood, her family's position, and her status as a shugenja, they can afford to be relatively choosy in the matter, while Haruka herself has been subtly resisting any efforts, partially in defiance of the Mantis and their forced growth policies, and partially because she already has her eye on another, though the chances of them actually being together are... Not likely. She will, however, do almost anything that does not betray her duty to earn such a union. Does your character have any prejudices? Haruka is even-handed and objective, lacking prejudices even against most that those of her clan despise and treating most others well, regardless of family or station in life, though she bears some resentment towards the Scorpion for their role in the Moshi's absorption by the Mantis. Most of her anger, though, is reserved for the Yoritomo themselves, the only family one can say she truly hates. She also frowns upon those who do not show the Fortunes the proper respect, and insults against Amaterasu in particular will get one on her bad side extremely quickly, though she will not show it. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? The Moshi daimyo, at least in terms of the authority she follows. What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? Haruka enjoys calm and quiet days, reading and other intellectual pursuits, and spending time with Akiko. She dislikes blasphemy and the Yoritomo, but on a more mundane level, she does not enjoy meat and rarely drinks sake, subsisting mostly on rice, tofu, water, and tea. Likewise, while she enjoys her comfort somewhat, she generally eschews luxury, at least by samurai standards (though perhaps not peasant ones). While she does not live like a monk or ascentic, she avoids unnecessary finery in favor of the simple and elegant. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? What about your character's emotions? Haruka is exceptionally skilled at keeping her emotions under wraps, as are most Moshi. Even her hatred of the Yoritomo is hidden from all but those close to her. From intense joy to burning rage, she rarely shows more than a slight smile. How would your character respond to a subordinate's improper behavior? Apart from grievous offenses and blasphemy, Haruka is forgiving of most transgressions, talking with the offending party and correcting them rather than inflicting severe punishment. How would your character's parents describe her? Haruka is nearly the ideal Moshi woman, and a kind and dutiful daughter. Though, they are have seen how her anger has changed her, subtly as it may be, and it saddens them. What is your character's highest ambition? To restore the Centipede Clan's independence as a minor clan and return the focus of their shugenja teachings to fire and the sun. The Moshi deserve better than to be a trinket awarded to the Yoritomo. How religious is your character? Extremely so. Haruka's life, as a Moshi, is dedicated to the worship of Amaterasu, and thus she is very pious, even compared to most shugenja. She observes daily rituals in the worship of Lady Sun, even away from Amaterasu Seido. How will your character die? In the service of the Centipede, whether in the course of working on the tasks they set out for her, or possibly should her "treachery" to the Emperor for the sake of the clan be discovered. Roland Jones fucked around with this message at 10:19 on Jan 27, 2013 |
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Jan 20, 2013 02:13
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I have a feeling this will make things interesting: Currently making an Ikoma Lion's Shadow who portrays himself as a simply Ikoma bushi but is in fact loyal to Toturi and wishes to see the downfall of the false Scorpion Emperor, and is seeding a spy network and setting up advances against the Scorpion to help this happen.
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Jan 20, 2013 02:28
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The Lords of Death plague the Moto, forcing them to wander even more than the rest of the Unicorn, never settling in one place. The Burning Words and the Dark Moto haunt their dreams, and death follows in their steps. [With no Second Day of Thunder, there would be no War Against the Shadow, Kamoko would not have ended the Burning Words, and Chagtai and Chen would not have been able to bargain with them] The Moto would never be free, and the Shi-Tien Yen-Wang would always be just behind. Or would they? Some within the family sought a third way. Death, they said, could be bargained with. In a paranoid Empire, such divergent theories are often seen as a threat. Daitomu has come face to face with both death and undeath enough times to know that it holds some truth. Death is not certain. The Unicorn, content with their new duties [and riddled with Kolat] have not taken kindly to these ideas, even from an talented up and coming shugenja. Surely, if the Hantei were still on the throne, things would be easier. Shoju's chaos created a new role for the Unicorn, but also plenty of trouble for them to deal with. Staying put and meeting Death was incomprehensible to the Moto, and the Daitomu was quickly identified as succumbing to the Moto Curse, and ordered to a monastery. His clan having forsaken him, albeit in the nicest way possible, Daitomu wasn't quite ready to hang up his sword just yet. He was given a choice of monastery, and still had his horse, so of course, he would just take his time to compare them and select one. Meanwhile, the Lords of Death still nipped at his heels, but he could find a way to outrun them.  pre:Name: Moto Daitomu Rank: 1 Clan: Unicorn Experience: 0 School: Death Priest Insight: 122 Earth: 3 Air: 2 Honor: 3.5 Sta: 3 Ref: 2 Glory: 1.0 Wil: 3 Awa: 2 Infamy: 0 Water: 2 Fire: 2 Status: 1.0 Str: 2 Agi: 2 Taint: 0 Per: 2 Int: 3 Void: 2 Initiative: 3k2 Skill Rank Trait Emp/Mas Roll Athletics 1 Str 3k2 Horsemanship 1 Agi 3k2 Hunting 2 Per Tracking 4k2 Lore: Theology 1 Int 4k3 Meditation 2 Void 4k2 Spellcraft 2 Int Importune 5k2 Etiquette 1 Awa 3k2 Divination 2 Int 5k3 Sincerity 1 Awa 3k2 Spear 3 Agi -3 Armor 1st Rd 5k2 Defense 2 Per 4k2 Advantage Points Sage 3 Unskilled Lore skills are Rank 1. Friend of the Elements (Earth) 3 Free Raise with Earth attributes. Disadvantage Points Cursed by the Realm (Gaki-do) 5 Gaki and hungry dead target you. Forced Retirement 4 Next IR must be in Monk school. Techniques Blessings of the Shi-Tien Yen-Wang Sacrfice spell slot and target one enemy. Contested Will roll. If successful, target can't explode dice or get rerolls for rounds equal to SR. Free Raise on any spell with the Travel keyword. Spells: Affinity/Deficiency: Earth/Air Non Earth Fire Water Sense Armor of Earth Burning Kiss of Steel The Rushing Wave Summon Stone's Endurance Envious Flames Commune Jade Strike Kiho Earth Needs No Eyes (Earth 3/Internal) Sense movement within IRx50' Weapon Attack Damage Notes Yari 5k2 4k2 Large, Throwable Equipment Sturdy Traveling Clothing, Wakizashi, Yari, Traveling Pack, Horse (Unicorn Steed), 5 Koku. The Unicorn, at least for today. What family does your character belong to? The Moto, again, for today. Is your character a Bushi, a Shugenja, or a Courtier? A Shugenja, and again, I repeat myself. How would others describe your character's appearance? Utilitarian. Daitomu is used to carrying everything he needs on his horse, and makes sure to not waste any space on frivolous things or decoration. What is your character's primary motivation? To stave off the death that stalks the Moto. Hopefully for the whole family, but just for himself will do. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? Nobody. His family and clan have both turned on him and cast him out. He isn't incapable of trust, but is becoming very jaded at the idea. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? Daitomu has a strong spear arm, a fast horse, and magic at his beck and call. His weakness is being a master of none. What does your character think of Bushido? A lofty goal, but one that must all too often fall to the wayside in the face of practical realities. What is your character's opinion of his clan? A once proud people, now bootlickers and lapdogs of the Scorpion. Is your character married? No. Does your character have any prejudices? Besides the rift with his clan, no. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? He honors the wishes of his clan and family, so them. Any loyalty is more than none. What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? Daitomu enjoys watching the traditional competitions of the Moto; horse racing, horse archery, and wrestling, sometimes all combined, even though he is not very skilled at them. He dislikes listening to long, boring speeches, but doesn't mind the sound of his own voice. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? He often checks over his shoulder, looking for something following him. What about your character's emotions? He can be seen as frantic and hurried at times, especially when kept in one place, such as a court. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behavior? With a swift reprimand, but no further thought. How would your character's parent describe her? Haunted and wise beyond his years. What is your character's highest ambition? To negotiate a deal with the Lords of Death to spare his clan from their curse. How religious is your character? Very, but it is a religion of fear. The fortunes matter little to him, but the Lords of Death are waiting not far behind ever step. How will your character die? If he has his way, never. More likely, kicking and screaming. Dagon fucked around with this message at 07:40 on Jan 25, 2013 |
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Jan 20, 2013 03:48
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I made an assumption while writing the OP that people would make characters who weren't necessarily satisfied with the current regime. Obviously that isn't the case, and I like the direction it takes things, so I'm going to ask that everyone consider their stance on whether or not they want to support or oppose Shoju I being on the throne, and how, as part of creation. Adding this to the OP as well. I'm more interested in making this interesting than I am in supporting a specific angle on that, by the way, so feel free to go either way.
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Jan 20, 2013 03:52
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Ikoma Asano While many Lion traditions have faltered with their movement to the wall, one has remained strong - that a select number of Ikoma, who show skill to some degree in both the courtier arts and the arts of combat, will be brought to Honor's Sacrifice Dojo and trained in the arts of the spymaster and shadow. Asano was chosen as one such student. His family was told he would be trained in the ways of the omoidasu, and he was sent to the dojo where he learned to give up his own honor for the good of everyone else's. He learned the importance of Bushido - and why he must remove himself from it so that others may achieve it. He learned the many acts forbidden to a samurai - and how to do them. And he learned to hate the Scorpion. He saw a good many brothers and friends willingly leave the clan in protest of the new Empire, and saw how the Scorpion did so many of the same actions he learned - not for the good and honor of all, but for their own selfish desires. Many in Scorpion were still using their newfound power to settle scores and abuse those they hated, and Asano saw many good men and women dishonored and either cast out or directed to commit sepukku for honor they never truly lost. This hatred crystalized shortly after his training, when, still unmarried, he met a beautiful crane woman by the name of Doji Shika. From her, he learned of his love of poetry. For one year they were happy together, albeit as friends and nothing more, until a Shosuro marked her family as traitors and set her father up for dishonor. He was not allowed to commit sepukku, and she was cast out, set to drift as ronin. If this was the moment that cemented his hate for the Scorpion, it was equally the moment that cemented his hidden loyalty to Toturi, for it was he who excepted Shika into his ranks as a negotiator, proving - at least to Asano - that the pro-Lion propaganda about Toturi was correct. Now, Asano acts as the Lion's Shadow. Masquerading as a very friendly Ikoma, part bushi and part bard, Asano is in truth beginning to build a hopeful web of blackmail, friends, contacts, bribes, and spies - all aimed at the Scorpion's heart. What clan does your character belong to? Lion! Proudest and most noble of clans! Those who dared to fight against the false Emperor! What family doe your character belong to? Ikoma. Few would understand my methods who do not know the truth of our ancestor. Is your character a bushi, shugenja, or a courtier? While I technically am a bushi, it would be more proper to say I am a grey area between them and courtiers. How would others describe your character's appearance? I am told I am quite beautiful, more similar to a Bayushi or Doji then an Ikoma. What is your character's primary motivation? Ending of the reign of the false Emperor! Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? My sensei in the arts of the Lion's Shadow, Haru Ikoma-sama. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? Both are my willingness to do what needs to be done for the good of the Empire. My strength is it's push and it's need, that a greater and more honorable good may come of things. My weakness is it's personal failing, and my succumbing to a dishonorable means to achieve it. What does your character think of Bushido? There is no other way to live. There is a certain irony in things - the Scorpion have abandoned their precious duty, and I must take it from them. They have stolen my honor, and made me as they are. What is your character's opinion of his clan? There is no clan greater then Lion. But one other clan stood with us that fateful day, and even now those that are Lion still in heart if not in mon train, fight, and ready themselves to take back out Empire. Is your character married? I am not. It is for the best; I fear I would be a poor husband, between my mission, and my love for another. Were I to be caught, it would only destroy the life of any women married to me. Does your character have any prejudices? I am uncertain why people were so surprised it was a Scorpion to betray us. Their "duty" has always been a shield to hide their foulness! To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? To the Empire, to my sensei, and to Toturi-sama What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? My favorite thing could only be Shika-san, formerly of the Doji, most beautiful and courteous woman in all of Rokugan. Besides that I have a true love for poetry that, I admit, surprises most who know of Clan Lion - and at times can be distracting. I am also an avid Go player. My least favorite would be this cruel and false Emperor that befouls our lands, and the clan that elevated him to it! But, if I had to choose a more regular thing, I have...never been very fond of the simple fish dishes. I enjoy the Mantis sushi, of course, and happily and gratefully eat the food that is provided! But...well, I'd rather have chicken. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? What about your character's emotions? As Ikoma I am allowed some leeway with showing emotions where others cannot. However, as I am no true omoidasu, I nonetheless try to contain myself as much as I can. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behavior? As is the way of Lion, passed down from Akodo, failure should teach. They will be disciplined harshly, but fairly, and in such a way that they may learn from their mistakes. If the failure is grand enough, then the discipline will teach others. How would your character's parents describe him? Both have fallen at the wall. I've nothing more to say about this matter. What is your character's highest ambition? To help drive the false Emperor out and restore Rokugan to it's rightful state. If I am but one man assisting this, that, then, is enough for me. ...But I would not mind to be one who orchestrates it on a grander level. How religious is your character? I follow the ancestors and fortunes well enough. At times it is easy to feel despair and wonder why we feel abandoned, but one must keep their chin high and remember that the Heavens have not forgotten us. How will your character die? Unknown and forgotten, regardless of if I succeed or fail. pre:Ikoma Asano Ikoma Lion's Shadow 1 Age: 20 Insight 128 Honor 3.5 (5.5) Status 1 Glory 1 Earth 2 Stamina 2 Willpower 2 Air 2 Reflexes 2 Awareness 4 Water 2 Strength 2 Perception 2 Fire 3 Agility 3 Intelligence 3 Void 2 Techniques/Masteries No Boundaries - No honor lose for use of low skills for glory or goals of the clan. 1/day, until end of day, target one person, gain +1k0 on all attack/contested rolls. Skills: Rank Trait Emphasis Rolls Acting 1 Awa 5k4 Artisan (Poetry) 1 Awa 5k4 Athletics 1 Str/Agi 3k2/4k3 Courtier 2 Awa 6k4 Ettiquette 1 Awa 5k4 Games (Go) 1 Int 4k3 Investigation 1 Per Notice 3k2 Jiujitsu 1 Agi 4k3 Kenjutsu 1 Agi 4k3 Lore (Bushido) 1 Int 4k3 Lore (Heraldry) 1 Int 4k3 Lore (Scorpion) 1 Int 4k3 Sincerity 1 Awa 5k4 Stealth 1 Agi 4k3 Tea Ceremony 1 Void 3k2 Temptation 1 Awa 6k4 Advantages Disadvantages Dangerous Beauty Dark Secret (Supporter of Toturi) Crafty Driven (Help oust the false Emperor) Heart of Vengeance (Scorpion) Fascination (Poetry) Perceived Honor (2) True Love (Shika, once Doji, now ronin under Toturi after being disgraced by Scorpion) Combat TN-to-be-hit: 15 Initiative: 3k2 Outfit: Traditional Clothing, Daisho, Knife, Calligraphy Set, Traveling Pack, 5 koku ProfessorCirno fucked around with this message at 16:10 on Jan 26, 2013 |
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Jan 20, 2013 11:33
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Given Shoju's elevation, do the Bayushi count as an Imperial family for purposes of advantage and disadvantage costs?
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Jan 20, 2013 19:18
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Okay, finished my dude's background - hope it's alright. Where do you guys find your pictures, by the way? Saith fucked around with this message at 21:20 on Jan 20, 2013 |
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Jan 20, 2013 21:02
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Saith posted:Where do you guys find your pictures, by the way? oracleofthevoid.com, search for type personality in your clan with maybe keywords appropriate, google card name artist name to try to find a bigger/borderless one helps if you know about the story/card game so you don't get made fun of for picking a picture of Bayushi Nitoshi or something
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Jan 20, 2013 21:36
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Never played the card game, but I've never heard of the bloke I chose so I think he's okay.
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Jan 20, 2013 21:45
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Epicurius posted:Given Shoju's elevation, do the Bayushi count as an Imperial family for purposes of advantage and disadvantage costs? Nah, he's officially Shoju I, and his descendants would be Shoju Namehere, much the same way Toturi's descendants were Toturi family rather than Akodo in the real timeline (or Iweko, for that matter)
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Jan 21, 2013 01:41
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Rain on skin. Snow on flesh. Air of the morning. These are the sensei of the enlightened. I would walk in lands far from men, were the millstone of destiny not one to crush the will of man beneath it. It is in striving to shrive the self of pretense that one finds the essence of enlightenment. To walk through nature is to touch the kami. As the false Emperor wears a mask, so does the world as we see it. All visible objects, man, are but as pasteboard masks. But in each event—in the living act, the undoubted deed—there, some unknown but still reasoning thing puts forth the mouldings of its features from behind the unreasoning mask. If man will strike, strike through the mask! How can the prisoner reach outside except by thrusting through the wall? Sometimes I think there's naught beyond. Yet it is enough. Woe to him whom this world charms from destiny. Woe to him who seeks to pour oil upon the waters when fate has brewed them into a gale. Woe to him who seeks to please rather than to appal! Woe to him whose good name is more to him than goodness. Woe to him who would not be true, even though to be false were salvation. And so enlightenment must wait. There can be no enlightenment while the Son of Heaven is himself a blasphemy. pre:Togashi Win Togashi Tattooed Monk Rank 1 Air - Reflexes 3 - Awareness 2 Earth - Stamina 2 - Willpower 2 Fire - Agility 2 - Intel 2 Water - Strength 2 - Perception 2 Void 3 Athletics 1 Defense 1 Craft: Tattooing 1 Jiujutsu 3 Lore: Theology 3 Meditation 2 Etiquette 2 Sincerity 2 Investigation 2 Hunting 3 Stealth 1 Tattoos Scorpion Wolf Friend of the Brotherhood Blood of Osano Wo Kiho: Touch the Void Dragon Ascetic Contrary Cursed By The Realm: Meido Winson_Paine fucked around with this message at 02:50 on Jan 25, 2013 |
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Jan 21, 2013 05:01
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Apparently you need Bushi. I will make some kind of Matsu, but give me a bit to think of something not ridiculously Anime. HiKaizer fucked around with this message at 06:51 on Jan 21, 2013 |
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Jan 21, 2013 06:11
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I would love to play, but I have never played or made a character. Would it be cool if I used the stats given in the L5R Free RPG Adventure(bottom of the page)?
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Jan 21, 2013 07:29
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After some consideration: If I get enough apps for characters on both sides of the fence--that is to say, Scorpion supporters and those who want to see the Scorpion removed--I'll run two campaigns in the setting, one for each side. I'll have to review the Free Adventure characters and think on that one, it's a good question. My gut says it might not net you a really great character, but I haven't looked just yet so...
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Jan 21, 2013 23:27
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Still hammering out a background and working my way through the 20 questions. Never actually played an L5R game before, but I'm familiar with the setting. As far as loyalty to Emperor Shoju is concerned, Tsubaki has no strong leanings one way or the other. If forced to choose a side, she would prefer to maintain the status quo so as to avoid further bloodshed, but she could just as easily choose to support the dissenters if they're able to make a convincing case for themselves. pre:Name: Asako Tsubaki Rank: 1 Clan: Phoenix Experience: 0 School: Asako Loremaster 1 Insight: 130 Earth: 2 Air: 3 Honor: 6.5 Sta: 2 Ref: 3 Glory: 1 Wil: 3 Awa: 3 Status: 1 Water: 2 Fire: 2 Taint: 0 Str: 2 Agi: 2 Per: 2 Int: 3 Void: 2 Wounds Initiative: 4k3 Healthy (+ 0): 10 Armor: None Nicked (+ 3): 4 TN: 20 Grazed (+ 5): 4 Reduction: 0 Hurt (+10): 4 Healing Rate: 5 Injured (+15): 4 Crippled (+20): 4 Down (+40): 4 Out : 4 Skill Rank Trait Roll Emphasis/Mastery Courtier 2 Awa 5k3 Etiquette 3 Awa 6k3 Courtesy; +3 Insight Lore: History 2 Int 5k3 Lore: Theology 1 Int 4k3 Fortunes Lore: Phoenix Clan 1 Int 4k3 Meditation 1 Void 3k2 Sincerity 2 Awa 5k3 Defense 1 Ref 4k3 War Fan 1 Agi 3k2 Artisan: Ikebana 1 Awa 4k3 Perform: Flute 1 Agi 3k2 Calligraphy 1 Int 4k3 Advantage Points Disadvantage Points Clear Thinker 3 Small 3 Sage 3 Soft-Hearted 3 Techniques Temple of the Soul - Gain a Free Raise on any Skill Roll with a Lore Skill. Gain +3k1 instead of +1k1 when spending Void points on Etiquette Skill Rolls. Equipment Sensible Clothing, Wakizashi, Calligraphy Set, Traveling Pack, 5 Koku
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Jan 22, 2013 00:02
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The past ten years have been difficult ones for the Otomo. The Scorpion Coup represents their greatest failure. Sworn to defend the Emperor against conspiracies by the clans, their inability to stop or even predict the coup haunts them. More than any family besides the Seppun, they have been divided by the coup. They are sworn to protect the emperor, and they continue those duties for Shoju as they did for the Hantei, although they often find themselves made redundant by the courtiers of the Bayushi family, who have turned their prodigious skills at blackmail and insinuation to protecting their new Emperor. However, many of the Otomo are descended from collateral branches of the Hantei family, and many Otomo burn with desire to avenge their cousins. Divided, filled with the memory of failure and not fully trusted, the Otomo are weaker than they have been in a long time. Otomo Hayuma is the perfect example of the family's internal conflict. The son of a bureaucrat who oversaw provincial tax collection, he had just completed his gempuku when the Scorpion Coup occurred. During the purges of the Imperial families, his family was considered "loyal", and escaped the worst of the bloodshed. To solidify the family's position and to reassure the emperor of their loyalty, his father wed him to a daughter of the Nanbu, guaranteeing them a family connection to the Scorpion. His uncle, Otomo Yoshiro, though, was not so lucky. He was suspected of anti-Shoju sentiment, and while he was not killed, was retired from his position and now spends his time at his estate with his two sons. The Scorpion find no evidence that he's actively plotting anything, although whether he's actually innocent or just good at covering his tracks they don't know. Hayuma has been sent to the court to keep his eyes open. His father sees an opportunity for the family to win a diplomatic coup or to find out some information valuable to the emperor that will raise their family in favor. His uncle sees an opportunity to find out some information that will bring the false emperor Shoju down. And Hayuma sees a dilemma. Does he side with his father, or his uncle? Does he help support the Emperor, or work against him? He's got no idea. code:
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Jan 22, 2013 03:27
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Zero Suit Ridley posted:After some consideration: If I get enough apps for characters on both sides of the fence--that is to say, Scorpion supporters and those who want to see the Scorpion removed--I'll run two campaigns in the setting, one for each side.
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Jan 22, 2013 03:39
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The Yasuki didn't rejoin the Crane for another 30 years, really. During the 1130s, they were wholly among the Crab. Not that I wanna shoot down neat ideas, but.
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Jan 22, 2013 04:44
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drat, then I would rearrange it into a Crane who holds the Scorpion Emperor in great disdain for his families fall from aristocrat to Shadowland cannon fodder, and particularly hates those who allowed the disgrace of his beloved father's seppuku following the coup.
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Jan 22, 2013 05:25
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Okay I've had a time to look over the pregenerated characters: They're not all built to 40 XP, at least not if I'm doing my math right. That rules them out for this game.
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Jan 22, 2013 06:22
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Hiro Protagonist posted:drat, then I would rearrange it into a Crane who holds the Scorpion Emperor in great disdain for his families fall from aristocrat to Shadowland cannon fodder, and particularly hates those who allowed the disgrace of his beloved father's seppuku following the coup. I'm not an expert with the system myself, but if you could get on IRC perhaps I or someone else could help you with the mechanical side of things.
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Jan 23, 2013 00:09
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Roland Jones posted:I'm not an expert with the system myself, but if you could get on IRC perhaps I or someone else could help you with the mechanical side of things.
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Jan 23, 2013 01:19
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I usually hang out in #badwrongfun, but if you want you can just message me; username on there is "Roland_Jones". Network is synIRC, of course.
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Jan 23, 2013 01:26
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I'm going to extend the deadline for applications by another week to see if we can't get enough to get a party for supporters of the throne and those who are dissenters.
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Jan 23, 2013 09:01
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Tekre is a Nezumi who was kicked out of her tribe for things she wouldn't like to talk about, and is looking for something shiny enough to present to them that would allow her back in. She's heard there's something of the sort in the Dragon Lands. BAM. Also not that Tekre actually cares, but I am a dissenter. CAPSLOCKGIRL fucked around with this message at 01:23 on Jan 24, 2013 |
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Jan 23, 2013 09:03
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New to L5R, new to the plot, new to this alternate history. I've doubtless butchered how the Dragon are or messed up something in the sheet or the background or something, so please pull me up on it if you spot anything wrong with it. When she was but a girl, Tsanuri was curious to see the lands around her home. Nestled safely among the rocky crags in the north of Dragon territory; she was surrounded by rich mineral veins, vivid flora, and hardy fauna. But her parents were protective of their only daughter, and seldom let her wander. She knew little of the land she had grown up on, and had seen even less. But Tsanuri was a curious girl, and as she grew so did her capacity to indulge her curiosity. With little Tsanuri's parents away one day, there was little to stop her as she strode out and began to wander about the mountainsides. Rich ores of gold and iron lay beneath the ground, leaving the fields pockmarked with deep trenches. Animals thrived in the bitter, exposed cold, with the snow foxes darting around the scrub and mountain goats slowly plodding along to get some dinner. But it was the nature, the small blossoms beginning to bud and the small but rugged flowers that were in bloom, that truly captured her attention. Truly this was natural beauty, without any interference from the hand of man it had grown into a haphazard yet strangely appealing arrangement. So captivated was Tsanuri's attention that she totally neglected what was right in front of her, and she took a misstep. Into a nearly exhausted mining shaft. She tumbled down the hole, daylight quickly fading to little more than a pinprick in her eyes. As she crashed to the bottom her misfortune continued, and her head met a sharp rock. Blood started to ooze from the wound and the girl's body suddenly began to convulse violently. And it wasn't until the following evening until she was found and rescued. This is a tale that continues to chronicle the life of Kitsuki Tsanuri. That is, she will always follow after her curiosity and seek out that which has piqued her interest, no matter where she ends up after it is over. She is a Dragon magistrate on the odd occasion the need arises, and more often than this a talented courtier. Both skill sets stay sharp and well practised. The sole reason she has not done better than her current station can come down to her… eccentricities. Eschewing material wealth is common enough for a Dragon, but that distinctly un-favoured luck of hers? Her occasional but still noted panic attacks? Those fits, sending her frothing at the mouth like a beast? Even among the Dragon these are noticed, and marked against her accordingly. Despite this she perseveres, undeterred from her own path. On the subject of the Emperor, Kitsuki Tsanuri offers a considered approach. "My mind thinks back to the tenets of iaijutsu. Here matters of honour, right and wrong, innocence and guilt decided by the blade; and the matter rests at first blood or death. Can we not see the precepts of the duel in the Scorpion Clan Coup? The families Shoju and Hantei battling for honour, for what will be right and what will be wrong? And did not the Scorpion win, did they not prove their strength? Other clans have always judged the Scorpion, this is well known. Do they paint the Scorpion Clan Coup as the zenith of Scorpion treachery on this prejudice alone, without considering the merits such action had on its own? The Emerald Throne, whether god or mortal sits upon it, doesn't tell the flowers when to come into bloom. Or the winds when to blow. Or the rivers which way to run. And the name of the one on top the Throne doesn't change such things either. Fact remains fact. Truth remains truth. Justice remains justice. While the number of wandering outlaws and bandits seem to have grown under the watch of the new Emperor, this just means that I have more work to do."  pre:Name: Kitsuki Tsanuri Honour 5.5 Healthy □□□□□□□□□□ Clan: Dragon Glory 1.0 Nicked □□□□ Family: Kitsuki Status 1.0 Grazed □□□□ School: Kitsuki Investigator Taint 0 Hurt □□□□ Rank: 1 Initiative 3k2 Injured □□□□ XP: 40/40 Wound Heal 5 Crippled □□□□ Insight: 123 Down □□□□ Out □□□□ EARTH 2 AIR 2 Stamina 2 Awareness 3 Willpower 2 Reflexes 2 VOID 2 FIRE 2 WATER 2 Agility 3 Strength 2 Intelligence 2 Perception 3 Skills Trait Emphasis Roll Notes Artisan 1 Awe - 4k3 Soul of Artistry Artisan 1 Awe - 4k3 Ikebana Athletics 1 Str - 3k2 Calligraphy 1 Int - 3k2 Courtier 3 Awe Rhetoric 6k3 Additional +3 Insight Defence 1 Ref - 3k2 Etiquette 2 Awe Courtesy 5k3 Investigation 3 Per Search/Interrogation 6k3 2nd attempt at Search for no TN increase Kenjutsu 1 Agi Wakizashi 4k3 Knives 1 Agi - 4k3 Lore 1 Int - 3k2 Dragon Meditation 1 Void - 3k2 Perform 1 Awe Oratory 4k3 Sincerity 2 Awe Honesty 5k3 Advantages Balance +1k0 when adding Honour to total of roll to resist Intimidation or Temptation Clear Thinker +1k0 to total of contested roll against being confused or manipulated Precise Memory +1k1 to Intelligence Trait roll when trying to recall exact details Soul of Artistry Unskilled Artisan Skills treated as if rank 1 Disadvantages Ascetic Outfit is only weapons, clothing, tools of your profession, receive half Glory for actions Phobia All TN's increased by +5 when confronted with tight, confined spaces. Epilepsy High stress or flashing lights brings on seizures, Willpower Trait roll TN 15 to avoid seizure, TN 10 each minute to end it Unlucky GM can force an immediate re-roll once per session Techniques Kitsuki's Method Free raise on all Investigation skill rolls, add Perception Trait to Armour TN Armour TN - 18 Weapon Attack Damage Notes Wakizashi 4k3 4k2 Can be thrown up to 20' Tanto 4k3 3k1 Can be thrown up to 20' Equipment Traditional Clothing Calligraphy Set Agility +1 12xp Rhetoric 2xp Wakizashi 2xp Balance 2xp Epilepsy -4xp Artisan +1 1xp Defence +1 2xp Knives +1 1xp Clear Thinker 2xp Phobia -1xp Athletics +1 1xp Etiquette +1 1xp Perform +1 1xp Precise Mem. 3xp Unlucky -2xp Calligraphy +1 1xp Investigate +2 5xp Sincerity +1 2xp Soul. Artistry 3xp Ascetic -3xp Courtier +2 5xp Search 2xp Honesty 2xp The Dragon, pursuers of true enlightenment along the path walked alone. What family does your character belong to? Kitsuki, and I will live up to our proud name. Is your character a Bushi, a Shugenja, or a Courtier? A courtier with a keen eye, if you do not wish to complicate matters. If you would wish to, then I suspect you already know what else it is I can do. How would others describe your character's appearance? Life in the court demands more from my appearance than my other life on the road. When it is needed I have been complimented for my looks and carriage, and my traditional dress is nicely offset by the style of my hair. When such primping isn't needed the positioning of my wakizashi and tanto take priority over my dress and demeanour. What is your character's primary motivation? To see that truth and justice are never concealed beneath a web of obfuscation, trickery, and lies. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? Agasha Keiko, a healer and herbalist who I have seen for many years. She has taught me many avenues to help ease my ailments, and to aid my living with them. Without her wise words and counsel, I doubt I would be where I am today. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? My greatest strength is that my weaknesses are known. I cannot hide my affliction, so it is open for all to know. Or see, potentially. Without secrets and hidden truths weighing on my shoulders, I am truly unburdened and free to pursue truth in all matters. My greatest weakness is that I follow the rules, I follow a code, I follow the law of the land. And I know that there are many who do not beholden themselves to such things. When it is time to meet with one such person, I put myself at a disadvantage before the introductions have begun. What does your character think of Bushido? As a Kitsuki and a clan magistrate, my life is my honesty and sincerity. Betraying this, betraying Bushido, would be to betray my own life. What is your character's opinion of her clan? The Dragon Clan are as we have been for a thousand years, sitting and watching as the other clans work their ways across Rokugan. We may not move swiftly or often, but we will never place a foot wrong. Is your character married? In spite of the best efforts of my parents to the contrary, I am not married. I suspect issue arises when my reputation proceeds me in matters of finding a suitor. Does your character have any prejudices? Though as a magistrate one must strive to be impartial, coming to conclusions only where logic and facts lead, one must too recognise that life experiences cloud even the clearest mind. Following the facts, only agreeing when logic dictates to do so, and one may overcome their own prejudice. If they realise they have them. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? The Emperor, as we all do. But being as far removed from him as I am, a closer to home loyalty would be to my family daimyo and Keiko-sama. What are your character's favourite and least favourite things? My favourite thing is a slow, leisurely walk out in the open, basking in the natural beauty of the world and indeed all living things as the sun illuminates in an even gradient across the sky from sunrise to sunset. My least favourite are closets. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? If one wished to belittle what I suffer from then yes, one could say I have a recurring mannerism. What about your character's emotions? Investigating a crime I am hard, closed off, and uncaring. There is no need of emotions in the course of law, only evidence and fact. In court an impassioned plea may see my professional demeanour slip for a few moments. And in my own time I revel in the calm pleasures of the arts and in beauty. To not feel joy in this would be to ignore the needs of the soul. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behaviour? I could hardly strike down hard on an accidental misstep now, could I? Such mistakes offer us an opportunity to see what went wrong and how we can better ourselves about such things in the future. Once the subordinate had gone over the mistakes and methods to do better many times, the matter would be dealt with. Though if it were intentional? A short, sharp reminder of their place would teach them as well. How would your character's parent describe her? Lucky to be alive. What is your character's highest ambition? To be chosen as an Emerald Magistrate. How religious is your character? It would be easy for one to conclude that from the course my life has taken I am not favoured or fortuned by the gods. But to me this is all the more reason to maintain my prayer. How will your character die? If I live long enough to see these wretched convulsions of mine take my life, I will pass on with few regrets. Robodog fucked around with this message at 09:26 on Jan 25, 2013 |
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Jan 24, 2013 08:21
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If there's a gap on a stat it is because I am not sure what should go there, I literally opened the book for the first time this evening. I will fill in the character information tomorrowish, I just would like to get the gaps filled first. I have a good idea what the deal is though.  pre:Name: Soshi Masami Rank: Clan: Scorpion Experience: 0 School: Shosuro Infiltrator Insight: 129 Earth: 2 Air : 2 Honor: 1.5 (2.5) Glory: 1 Sta: 2 Ref: 3 Infamy: 0 Wil: 2 Awa: 3 Status: 1 Taint: 0 Water: 2 Fire: 3 Str: 2 Agi: 3 Per: 2 Int: 3 Void: 2 Wounds Initiative: Healthy (+ 0): Armor: Nicked (+ 0): TN: ??+3 Grazed (+ 0): Reduction: 1 Hurt (+ 0): Healing Rate: Injured (+ 0): Crippled (+ 0): Down (+ 0): Out : Skill Rank Trait Emphasis Acting 2 Awa Profession Sincerity 1 Awa Deceit Courtier 1 Awa Artisan (Ikebana) 1 Awa Calligraphy 1 Int Cipher Etiquitte 1 Awa Investigation 1 Per Tea Ceremony 1 Void Athletics 1 Str Kyujutsu 1 Ref Ninjitsu 1 Agi/Ref Stealth 2 Agi Sneak Forgery 1 Agi Temptation 1 Awa Sleight of Hand 1 Agi Craft (poison) 2 ??? Advantage Points Perceived Honour 1 2 Silent 2 Disadvantage Points Dark Secret (Poisoned her husband) 5 Small 3 Techniques The Path of Shadows - No honour lost for using low skills/ninjitsu weapons in service of the Scorpion clan - +2k0 to all stealth skill rolls Weapon Attack Damage Notes Outfit: Ashigaru , Sturdy Black Clothing, Daisho, Bow, Traveling Pack, 5 koku The Scorpion. It is the highest honour to be of the Emperor's clan. What family does your character belong to? I am of the Soshi, though I worry often that I do not live up to their expectations. I have not the skill of the shugenja, after all. Is your character a bushi, shugenja, or a courtier? A courtier, of course. How would others describe your character's appearance? My honoured husband, may his soul find better fortune in his next life, wrote many poems praising my beauty; the lightness of my form, how sleek my hair. They form some of my most treasured memories of him. What is your character's primary motivation? To serve my family, my clan, and my emperor, as is proper. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? I could not elevate one above another in such manner. I could not slight my friends and family by naming one less trusted than another. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? I have such little talent with the scholarly arts, I hope that my family does not think me as a failure in that regard. But as a result I have devoted all effort to being a proper daughter of the Soshi, and I believe I have served them well at court, both before I left to manage my husband's household and after my return since his passing. What does your character think of Bushido? What does one think of the air we breathe? What is your character's opinion of his clan? There is no greater honour than to be of the Emperor's clan. It is my life to serve the Scorpion. Is your character married? My husband fell tragically ill when we were not but a year married and passed not long after our anniversary. I returned to my own family at that time. They are looking for another husband for me, but a widow, even an attractive, youthful one, is always trickier to find a husband for. Does your character have any prejudices? Only the proper ones. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? As I have said, family, clan, and the Emperor. What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? I greatly enjoy the traditional arts; arranging flowers properly and the tea ceremony broth bring a great calm to me. I truly believe they are what preserved me through the tragedy. What about your character's emotions? One does one's best to show proper restraint, of course. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behavior? It depends on the nature of the impropriety, to be sure, but a firm punishment offers the greatest encouragement. How religious is your character? It can be hard to be pious when afflicted by such tragedies, but so too can it be a comfort in the same circumstances. I do my best. How will your character die? In the service of my clan. There is no other proper way to die. neongrey fucked around with this message at 05:33 on Jan 26, 2013 |
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Jan 24, 2013 08:33
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Is an Armor TN of 27 at chargen really unusual or something? I think I actually might be the hardest person to hit out of all the characters, which is weird, or maybe very appropriate, because Tekre is a pacifist.
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Jan 24, 2013 09:15
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CAPSLOCKGIRL posted:Is an Armor TN of 27 at chargen really unusual or something? I think I actually might be the hardest person to hit out of all the characters, which is weird, or maybe very appropriate, because Tekre is a pacifist. Well, your character is small and fast, so it does make sense.
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Jan 24, 2013 09:19
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 Utaku Kaori What clan does your character belong to? The Unicorn. No other clan better exemplifies the samurai spirit - a samurai must be honorable, always seeking knowledge, always protective of those under her care. The other clans are to be commended for their achievements; you can not force them to realize there is a better way. What family does your character belong to? The Utaku are the epitome of the Unicorn Clan, already the epitome of samurai. They exemplify the best of the Unicorn's discipline and freedom. Is your character a bushi, courtier or shugenja? As one of the Utaku Battle Maidens, Kaori is one of the bushi. She recognizes a well-rounded individual must be more than her training and seeks to understand all callings, but battle is the truest test of courage. How would others describe your character's appearance? Utaku Kaori is uncomfortably intense. She throws herself wholly into every activity and commands attention. Her bearing is far more notable than her physical features. She is otherwise much like most Unicorns - a hint of foreign features, toned from constant training. What is your character's primary motivation? The samurai and the nobles have some command of their destiny; the average man has none. They must be protected and shepherded. Utaku Kaori hopes to never forget how hard life can be, and how much power (relatively) she has to make life easier for others. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? Her sister, Utaku Natsumi. Natsumi shares her idealism, though she approaches it from the spirit world rather than the field of battle. Kaori hasn't responded well to being separated from her sister, or the rest of her family. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? Kaori is a well-rounded warrior always seeking personal improvement. However, she often can't see the big picture and is too quick to trust. Kaori will take short term gains if not reminded of long term consequences. What does your character think of Bushido? She is naive enough to believe everyone holds it in the same esteem. Compassion is its greatest tenet, even beyond personal honor and glory. What is your character's opinion of her clan? As above, no clan embodies the essence of the samurai like the Unicorn Clan. Other clans are misguided, if well-intentioned. Is your character married? No, and it bothers her. Having someone to tend home and handle finances would be ideal. It would free her from what she considers tedious responsibilities. Having a spouse would also be a potential source of power when dealing with the courts. That's what she tells herself, anyway. It would also be nice to have someone to talk to at home. Does your character have any prejudices? Those who complain and seek significant change are less worthy than those taking action. She looks down on those acting against the Emperor, even if she might agree with some of the specific issues. She also looks down on the other Clans for having a clear example of the righteous path and continuing to act in ways unlike the Unicorn. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? It should be the Emperor or her direct superiors. Failing that, it should be her peers. Kaori instead finds herself too concerned with the peasants. It's going to get her in trouble one day. What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? Aside from her Utaku warhorse, of course. of course She is obsessed with citrus and wants to learn how to cook with it. She hates, hates weapons other than swords and bows. Other samurai who insist on using those weapons are showing off or inferior warriors. They are traditional weapons for a reason. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? Utaku Kaori memorizes and uses names whenever possible, even for those beneath her station. She often runs instead of walks, and fights looking visibly uncomfortable indoors. What about your character's emotions? She spends enough time policing her emotions that she revels in the opportunities to share them. Kaori channels most of them into her art and hobbies. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behavior? Kaori instructs by example. If a subordinate acts improperly, they can expect a long lecture followed by days of proper training. It's boring and thorough. How would your character's parents describe her? Kaori's parents are crude and vocal opponents of the current Emperor. They are both knowledgeable about foreign cultures and increasingly displeased with Rokugani culture. As such, her parents consider her misguided and working on the wrong side. She has tried to cut ties with them as best she can. What is your character's highest ambition? To rule over a large province and ensure good living for all inside. Working for everyone in the Empire is unrealistic, but she can make a small change. Her own Minor Clan would be even better. How religious is your character? Kaori pays service to the temples and spirits, and (through her sister) knows a bit more of the spirit world than most warriors. She offers prayers and visits temples as often as is practical. How will your character die? Defending others. Ideally of old age, beloved by the common people, but fierce combat against her enemies is acceptable too. pre:Name: Utaku Kaori Rank: 1 Clan: Unicorn Experience: 0 School: Utaku Battle Maiden Insight: 128 Earth: 3 Air : 2 Honor: 6.5 Glory: 1 Sta: 3 Ref: 3 Infamy: 0 Wil: 3 Awa: 2 Status: 1 Taint: 0 Water: 2 Fire: 2 Str: 3 Agi: 2 Per: 2 Int: 2 Void: 2 Wounds Initiative: 4k3 Healthy (+ 0): 15 Armor: Riding Nicked (+ 3): 6 TN: 23/31 Grazed (+ 5): 6 Reduction: 4 Hurt (+10): 6 Healing Rate: Injured (+15): 6 Crippled (+20): 6 Down (+40): 6 Out : Skill Rank Trait Emphasis Sincerity 2 Awa Artisan (Painting) 2 Awa Etiquette 1 Awa Investigation 1 Per Lore: Shugenja 1 Int Athletics 1 Str Kyujutsu 2 Ref Kenjutsu 2 Agi Animal Handling 1 Awa Battle 1 Per Defense 2 Ref Horsemanship 2 Agi Performance (Dance) 1 Agi Advantage Points Hero of the People 2 Ebisu's Blessing 2 Disadvantage Points Moto Curse +4 Idealistic +2 Techniques Riding In Harmony - Bonus equal to Honor Rank to one attack roll per round; if mounted, can apply to damage instead - Horsemanship rolls gain bonus equal to Honor Rank Weapon Attack Damage Notes Dai-kyu 5k3 5k2 Willow Leaf arrows Katana 4k3 6k2 Wakizashi 4k3 5k2 Outfit: Riding Armor, Sturdy Clothing, Daisho (katana + wakizashi), Dai-kyu, Utaku warhorse, 15 ya, 7 koku (minus cost of miscellaneous stuff) Mikan fucked around with this message at 06:39 on Jan 26, 2013 |
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Jan 25, 2013 02:46
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 Character Sheet Matsu Mayumi was born in an unfortunate time. The new Emperor caused dissension and strife in Lion lands, yet throughout this time of turmoil Mayumi tried to focus on the things she was taught. The importance of honor, Bushido and the Celestial Order. The price of duty, and doing what one must no matter the circumstances. Throughout her childhood she wanted nothing more than to achieve honor and glory on the battlefield, spurred on by the stories of her ancestors and reinforced by tales of the Lion of old. Though she was brought up with a rather idealized version of humanity, one that glossed over the aspects involving lies, dishonesty and deception. She trained, and fought, and spent quite a bit of time finding out that people weren't always completely honest, though this has not deterred her idealism. Since attaining her full status as samurai she has doggedly followed the orders handed down to her, even the ones that contradicted each other to the best of her ability. After all the Emperor's word is law and should be treated as such. She has become somewhat disappointed at the Lions current state, a stark contrast with the images and tales she grew up with, but feels that their return to power will soon come. Those that left will realize the error of their ways and return, the Emporer will realize the importance of the clan and treat them with the respect they deserve and people will consider this period nothing more than an anomaly in the clan's otherwise sterling history. What clan does your character belong to? The Lion, the Emperors right hand and the realms military might. What family does your character belong to? Matsu, the fiercest combatants. Is your character a Bushi, a Shugenja, or a Courtier? Bushi, a proud warrior and seeker of honor and glory. How would others describe your character's appearance? Rugged, and practical. Armor and clothing worn and usually covered in dirt and mud from travel. Hair cut short but usually with a smile on her face. In a word, practical. What is your character's primary motivation? To see the Lion returned to their former glory. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? She doesn't have an individual she trusts more than anyone. She believes that everyone is a trustworthy person as they aspire towards their own goals. After all, lying is dishonorable and who would want to act like that? What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? Her strength is easily her combat prowess. She is a force to be reckoned with, ferocity tempered by skill and a keen eye for tactics. Her home is the battlefield no matter where that battle is located. Her weakness is elsewhere, in court or other social situations. She grew up in an environment with little in the way of deception or dishonesty and as such tends to believe almost anyone implicitly. What does your character think of Bushido? It is the standard to which all should aspire towards. What is your character's opinion of his clan? The Lion clan was, and should be, a force to be reckoned with. Their current state is surely only temporary and soon they shall return to their former glory. Is your character married? Kind of busy at the moment. Does your character have any prejudices? She tries very hard to find the best in everyone, as almost all people have a place in the celestial order and a purpose to their existence. Even ronin and eta who perform many of the tasks necessary to keep society functioning. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? The Emperor and her Clan. What are your character's favourite and least favourite things? Her favorite thing is that moment in battle when you realize that your tactics and training have all paid off, and the outcome begins shifting in your favor with victory going from possible to imminent. Her least favorite thing is wandering around the woods for several hours until realizing that there probably isn't a magical creature there and the others are simply playing a prank on you. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? A desire to have things come to blows might be counted a mannerism. It certainly makes things simpler. What about your character's emotions? Passion, fury, and intensity, but she's working on it. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behaviour? He would be disciplined according to the tenets of bushido or the appropriate laws. She would explain to them what they did wrong and why they are being punished because clearly they had a simple lapse of judgement and strayed from the righteous path. How would your character's parent describe her? A bit naive but with a good heart and a strong arm. What is your character's highest ambition? Restoring the Lion to their former power and glory. How religious is your character? Reasonably religious. After all religion is important in achieving balance, though her faith hasn't really been tested to any degree. How will your character die? Standing on a mountain of corpses, smiling, and spitting blood and spite into the face of her enemy. unzealous fucked around with this message at 01:44 on Jan 27, 2013 |
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Jan 25, 2013 04:32
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 :iamafag: Utaku Natsumi What clan does your character belong to? Unicorn, the most compassionate and humble of all the Clans! What family does your character belong to? Utaku, the most honorable and strong of the Unicorn. Is your character a bushi, courtier or shugenja? Shugenja. When her ability to speak to the kami made itself known, Natsumi gave up the Utaku Battle Maidens and set her sights on the Iuchi school. How would others describe your character's appearance? Natsumi is young and naïve, but mostly comes off as virtuous and unshakable. She has striking features, though usually that is because she is inserting them into other people's business to give her opinion. What is your character's primary motivation? To perfect her talents and use them to protect the people of Rokugan, of course. Utaku Natsumi was born to be a hero! Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? Her sister Utaku Kaori, who shares her deep and complex view of the world. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? Aside from her obvious shugenja talent, Natsumi's strengths lie in her knowledge and her virtuous soul. As for weaknesses, well, her sensei told her she is hopelessly naïve with standards the Unicorn's greatest champions would be hard-pressed to meet. Natsumi is willing to concede that sometimes she is a little too willing to speak her mind. What does your character think of Bushido? Bushido is the greatest. Without it, we would be lost - especially Compassion. Only by adhering as closely to Bushido as we possibly can will keep Rokugan great. What is your character's opinion of her clan? Anyone can see that the other clans have some good qualities, or no kami would talk to them. None have the experience and appreciation for life as the Unicorn, though. Is your character married? Not yet. Not that Natsumi isn't marriage material. Does your character have any prejudices? Of course not. Natsumi respects the other Clans and graciously forgives their many, many faults, as is the way of the Unicorn. People who do not honor Bushido as well as they could or who doubt the Emperor earn her scorn, though. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? The Emperor and Bushido, which both should be upheld no matter the cost. The price of disloyalty is surely higher. What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? Natsumi loves sushi. She also finds shogi a very enjoyable game. She hates being made to look foolish. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? Natsumi was clumsy as a child, and still takes unnecessary care to avoid breaking or tripping on anything. She also likes involving herself in other people's conversations. What about your character's emotions? Some call her pious. Those people are just whiny. Natsumi is stoic when a samurai needs to be, and pours her emotions into her magic. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behavior? Show the compassion they surely deserve, at least after a good and stern talking-to. How would your character's parents describe her? Natsumi's parents are proud of her shugenja talents but remain strangely disapproving, and insist she go and learn more about how the world works. Surely she knows enough already? What is your character's highest ambition? To be a great hero, one who serves the Emperor well. The kind others tell their children about. How religious is your character? Natsumi is very religious, especially when it comes to the kami and Fortunes. She is perhaps a little more reverent than she needs to be. How will your character die? Doing something heroic in the service of the Emperor, of course. pre:Name: Utaku Natsumi Rank: 1 Clan: Unicorn Experience: 0 School: Iuchi Shugenja Insight: 137 Earth: 3 Air : 2 Honor: 5.5 Glory: 1 Sta: 3 Ref: 2 Infamy: 0 Wil: 3 Awa: 2 Status: 1 Taint: 0 Water: 3 Fire: 2 Str: 3 Agi: 2 Per: 3 Int: 2 Void: 2 Wounds Initiative: 3k2 Healthy (+ 0): 15 Armor: None Nicked (+ 3): 6 TN: 15/15 Grazed (+ 5): 6 Reduction: 0 Hurt (+10): 6 Healing Rate: Injured (+15): 6 Crippled (+20): 6 Down (+40): 6 Out : Skill Rank Trait Emphasis Battle 1 Awa Calligraphy 1 Int Cipher Horsemanship 1 Agi Investigation 1 Per Lore: Theology 1 Int Meditation 2 Voi Spellcraft 3 Int Athletics 1 Str Defense 1 Ref Etiquette 1 Awa Games (shogi) 1 Int Kenjutsu 1 Agi Medicine 1 Int Sincerity 1 Awa Advantage Points Irreproachable 2 Sage 3 Disadvantage Points Contrary +3 Idealistic +2 Techniques Spirit of the Wind: - Can take Complex Action to sacrifice a spell slot and grant one target a Simple Move Action - Free raise on any spell with the Travel keyword Spells: Affinity/Deficiency: Water/Fire Commune, Sense, Summon Air: Legacy of Kaze-no-Kami Earth: Jade Strike, Jurojin's Balm Water: Spirit of the Water, Reversal of Fortunes, Path To Inner Peace Outfit: Extravagant clothing, wakizashi, katana (at home), calligraphy set, traveling pack, Unicorn riding horse, books and scrolls, medicine kit, 9 koku Ettin fucked around with this message at 14:18 on Jan 25, 2013 |
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Jan 25, 2013 07:17
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These are dark days. The new Emperor has rightly won the throne and united the land, but there are those who do not see his wisdom and would return Rokugan to the chaos of civil war. This must not be allowed to happen - it demands too great a cost. Rebels, bandits, conspirators - all must be convinced to turn their arms to more productive pursuits. Only when the people of Rokugan accept the current order can harmony return. quote:Tsanumi What Tsanumi is a monk of the Kaimetsu-uo temple, the temple dedicated to bringing harmony and reconciliation to the empire! What family does your character belong to? Tsanumi is a courtier who retired after the Scorpion Emperor forcibly grafted the minor clans into the Mantis Clan. He saw the strife that it brought to the Mantis Lands and decided that the only way he attempt to reconcile the minor clans was to join an organization that they all might respect. Is your character a bushi, courtier or shugenja? He is a monk. How would others describe your character's appearance? He is an older man with thinning hair and a rough, scratchy-looking beard. His body looks as though it has seen better days, but he always maintains an aura of patience no matter who he is dealing with. What is your character's primary motivation? Tsanumi wants to heal the divides caused by the Scorpion coup - to bring the clans back together for a more united and harmonious Rokugan. Particularly, he is interested in bringing unity to the discordant families of the Mantis Clan, hoping to unite them in support of the new emperor. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? His former Daimyo, who always behaved honorably, and encouraged him when he joined the temple. His former lord shares his hope that the Mantis clan will come together despite their misgivings. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? Tsanumi knows that codes of honor strengthen the divide between the people of Rokugan - and that being outside of the clan structure gives him the ability to look for solutions that others could not suggest. Tsanumi is also plagued by self-doubt. He knows that in any political struggle, both sides will engage in behavior that is harmful. Maybe he can do his tasks without seeing any servants of the emperor engage in wrongdoing. Maybe he will be forced to face the fact that he picked a side for personal reasons. What is your character's opinion of her He loves the temple of Keimetsu-uo. He thinks it is the best hope for Rokugan, and a proud legacy of the Mantis clan. Is your character married? He is married to the fortunes. (This is a metaphor!) Does your character have any prejudices? Tsanumi believes that dissidents and rebels are short-sighted, mostly out of ignorance rather than malice. He also harbors a slight disdain for clans that have had conflicts with the Mantis clan in the past, although he does his best to control it. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? He is loyal to the teachings of Keimetsu-uo and the temple foremost, but still favors his former clan. His loyalty to the current emperor is a close third, although that may be tested if the Mantis Clan ever took a stand again him. What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? If Tsanumi had his way, he would spend his days fishing near the Mantis Clan's home islands. He dislikes strong drinks and fancy food, preferring to keep it simple. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? Tsanumi nods along when people are talking, whether he agrees with him or not. He just likes to show that he is listening. What about your character's emotions? Tsanumi is detached. If he gave in to his emotions too much, he wouldn't be able to perform his duties for the temple. He finds it easy to suppress his emotions, but sometimes questions whether that is a good thing. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behavior? Gentle corrections, or, if it was a subordinate from the temple... sweeping the common rooms usually teaches patience. How would your character's parents describe her? They describe him as an accomplished courtier who selfishly wasted all the effort they put in to secure him an honorable life by taking the Monk's vows. What is your character's highest ambition? Tsanumi's highest ambition would be to help fully integrate the Moshi and Tsuruchui clans into the Mantis Family - in a way that makes them proud to be a part of it! How religious is your character? Extremely. He offers daily prayers to many kami, and the knees and elbows of his clothes are worn by his devotion to ritualism. How will your character die? He will be martyred by people who seek to increase division, and his death will be a sign. edit: Accidently reversed glory and status. Mormon Star Wars fucked around with this message at 02:07 on Jan 26, 2013 |
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Jan 26, 2013 01:38
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 Doji Ko White feathers fall free Cut through fog, through dark, through waves Crane heralds the spring "The wounded baying of lions and the angry skittering of crabs matter not. The pride of preening cranes matter not. The unicorns left to run wild matter not. The dragon sleeping in the mountain, the phoenix blinded by clouds, the mantis flooding underfoot all matter not. The venomous scorpions, once exposed, matter not. There is nothing dishonorable in a land without honor. We shall see how Rokugan fancies a Crane that can swim." quote:Name: Doji Ko What clan does your character belong to? Ko is a Crane, a clan that has not been as graceful as its namesake in defeat. What family does your character belong to? Ko is a member of the Doji family, a name she wears as proudly as any daisho. Is your character a bushi, courtier or shugenja? She is a courtier. How would others describe your character's appearance? Short, plain and babyfaced, but with old, hungry eyes. What is your character's primary motivation? Ko wants to do as all Crane do and make herself indispensable to the continued functioning of Rokugani politics, regardless of who serves as Emperor. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? Herself and the Lady Doji. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? Ko's greatest strengths are her adaptability and lack of sentimentality. She, like the air, is free-spirited and unfettered. Her stint at the Shosuro Acting School has given her a new lens to view honor and her clan's purpose. Her weakness is her loyalty to the Crane's purpose, the only trinket of sentimentality she allows herself to keep. She is deeply distrustful of people she believes doesn't fit her concept of honesty. The way she approaches her devotion to servitude and social maneuvering makes her appear mercenary at best and treacherous at worst. What is your character's opinion of her clan? She loves the ideal of honesty and of the Crane's gentle nobility, but hates the members of her clan who do naught but lament their current lot. She feels as though it is kharmic payment for the Crane's hypocrisy in courtly dealings, a hypocrisy she has gleefully discarded for a Scorpion's view of honesty. Is your character married? No. If necessary, she will attempt to arrange one. Does your character have any prejudices? Ko has a distaste for the average Lion and Crab, as she finds them to be bloodthirsty and impotent. The inter-clan enmity has only increased with the three clans' sudden closeness to each other in these trying times. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? To Rokugan's ensured survival. What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? Ko loves success and telling stories, although she isn't the best at them. She loathes any sort of arrogance or the use of bushido to justify unsightly deeds. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? When loafing about, she tucks one or both arms into her kimono. When she's truly incensed, she smiles with her eyes closed and takes on a dreamy, sing-song voice. All other mannerisms have been trained out of her through her time as courtier and actor. What about your character's emotions? Calm, cultured and sweet on the surface. Underneath, either eerie nothingness, blazing passion or youthful tumult. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behavior? Depends on the results of said improper behavior. Mistakes can have hidden boons, much as successes can bring great calamity. She may give them an earful worthy of the saltiest Yoritomo, however. How would your character's parents describe her? A dutiful daughter and paragon of bushido, if she didn't have that ugly, Scorpion-like sense of naked ambition. What is your character's highest ambition? To establish herself as in irreplaceable part of the Empire, no matter who rules it. How religious is your character? Pragmatically religious. She has learned enough to jade her, but even the heretic calls upon the Fortunes in times of strife. How will your character die? As an example to others MadRhetoric fucked around with this message at 05:18 on Jan 26, 2013 |
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Jan 26, 2013 04:46
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 Kaiu Ginzo Appearance and Personality: Kaiu Ginzo always appears in public immaculately groomed, with his moustache waxed and his imposing armor cleaned and polished. Were he not habitually encased in an impregnable metal shell with an enormous no-dachi strapped to his back, he might even be called a fop. True to that nature, he also heartily appreciates the finer things in life, a penchant that would normally be quite incongruous for a man with duties upon the Wall. But he is a Kaiu Engineer, being trained up as an officer in the Crab Army to command men in the defense of the Wall, and he approaches his duties with the utmost seriousness. For even when he is relaxing in his pavilion over a game of Go with his many gaming partners, he is always pondering improvements to be made to the Kaiu fortifications or new defensive stratagems to be drilled with the Hida upon the Wall. This technical brilliance allows him more leeway in his personal affairs than the average Crab bushi, but he could perhaps be even greater were he not sometimes held back by his occasional spiritual and moral failings. Ginzo believes that Shoju is the first Emperor who truly recognizes the importance of the Crab's responsibility to Rokugan, especially since he ordered the other Clans to sacrifice in the defense of the Wall, a burden that had heretofore fallen solely on the ample shoulders of the Crab. That new style of leadership alone is enough to compel Ginzo's allegiance. But even before Shoju secured the throne, the Scorpion showed strength and resolve in meeting the insidious threat of Fu Leng that no others--not the Isawa, not the Seppun, not even the Kuni--had detected, and that merits Ginzo's ultimate respect. Background: Kaiu Ginzo began his journey toward adulthood as an apprentice smith in the Kaiu forges, but it did not take much time for his engineering talents to be recognized, and he was rapidly reassigned to serve in support of the Wall. Though he was technically not yet past his gempukku, he nevertheless learned how to stand watch upon the ramparts, sharing in the dangerous duty of the Hida and others. He even became a regular (if not particularly gifted) performer in the draw-lot plays whenever he was off-duty behind the Wall. When the nights turned to drunken carousing, however, he always preferred to retire to the Kaiu pavilion where he could remain well-groomed and where he could enjoy his many other comforts (silken sheets, say, or other similar wares provided courtesy of the local Yasuki quartermaster). His first assignment upon completing his gempukku was to take charge of a squad of peasant conscripts who were renovating a section of the Wall. It so happens that Ginzo has seen enough death and destruction in his short tour of duty that he had rather rapidly concluded that mankind was on its own agains their Shadowlands enemies--the Fortunes would not aid them, he believed, and the only Kami who sustained an interest in the lives and deaths of mortals was the one motivating the hordes that constantly threatened him and all of his allies. As a result of his (anti-)theological predisposition, he had no trouble convincing himself that the monks sheltered within a nearby monastery were selfishly withholding valuable supplies from the Crab, so he did not hesitate even a moment before ordering the peasant work crews to dismantle the monastery to provide needed materials. The now-homeless monks protested to GInzo's superiors, leading Ginzo to be recommended for an entirely different assignment--a promotion, of sorts, in recognition of the speed and resourcefulness that the showed in completing his very first assignment. At least, that is what Ginzo tells himself… Twenty or so questions: What clan does your character belong to? Those with the strength, wisdom, skill, and endurance to stand against their enemies when all others fall. The Crab. What family does your character belong to? His name is Kaiu Ginzo--what are you, an idiot? Wait, don't answer that; I don't want to know. Is your character a bushi, courtier or shugenja? He is an artisan--a master craftsman of wood and stone and steel and strategy. That said, he is a Crab, so he knows how to handle a weapon whenever the Shadowlands hordes come clambering and slavering toward the Wall. How would others describe your character's appearance? Impeccable. If they could get past the armor and the greatsword, they would appreciate the attention that he pays to every detail of his appearance. What is your character's primary motivation? To join the ranks of the most brilliant Kaiu to ever devote their minds and hands to the defense of Rokugan. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? Himself. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? He is a freaking genius. And he knows it. He has no patience for those who are slow of wit or otherwise incompetent in their assigned roles. What is your character's opinion of his clan? The Crab are finally beginning to get the respect they deserve, now that someone who understands Duty is seated upon the throne. What does your character think of bushido? It is a useful tool for forging men into what they are capable of becoming. Is your character married? No. He has not yet had the time or inclination to pursue any commitment along those lines. Does your character have any prejudices? Witless people bother him, but at least if they're obedient they can be useful. Any shugenja or monk offers testimony of his witlessness purely by believing that the kami care two zenis for their fate. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? The Wall, and those who stand upon it. The Clan of Fortitude. And the Empire of Rokugan. In that order. What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? A well-engineered defense, either of materials or men, is a beautiful thing to behold. Those without the intelligence to effectively play their role in society frustrate him to no end. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? He must always be presentable when appearing in public. What about your character's emotions? Emotions can get in the way of figuring things out, more often than not. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behavior? Correct him. If he will not learn, then he should be given lesser responsibilities where no others will die if he fails. Perhaps a Crane Court is a useful place for such a one. How would your character's parents describe him? His parents died upon the Wall when he was young, so they have nothing to say about him. What is your character's highest ambition? To be remembered by all who come after him, and to be spoken of in the same breath as Kaiu himself. How religious is your character? Religion is poison. It causes a man to kneel in supplication when he should be standing in defiance. Man is all that man can rely upon. How will your character die? He will die once he has fulfilled all that he was born to accomplish, no doubt when he is old and frail. Age is the only enemy that will overcome him. Kaiu Ginzo Clan: Crab Family: Kaiu Kaiu Engineer Insight: 100 (Abilities) + 23 (Skills) = 123 Honor: 4.5 / Glory 1.0 / Status 1.0 Air: 2 Earth: 2 Fire: 2 (Int 4) Water: 2 (Per 3) Void: 2 Weapons: Daisho: Attack 4k2, Damage 5k2 No-Dachi: Attack 4k2, Damage 5k3 Armor: Heavy Armor (+10 TN, Reduction 5, -5 to Agility & Reflexes Rolls) Wounds: 10 (+0), 14 (+3), 18 (+5) 22 (+10) 26 (+15) 30 (+20) 34 (+40*) 38 (Out) Advantages: Clear Thinker (+1k0 vs. Manipulation/Confusion) 3 Great Potential: Engineering (Raises not limited by Void) 5 Soul of Artistry: Craft (All Craft skills at Rank 1) 4 Disadvantages: Cast Out (Monks of one temple treat Glory as Infamy) 1 Compulsion: Meticulously Groomed Appearance (Willpower TN 20) 3 Disbeliever (Social Skill TN +5 vs. shugenja, monks) 3 Driven: Live Comfortably 2 Fascination: Fortifications 1 Skills (* = School): Rank * Battle 2 * Craft: Armorsmithing 2 * Craft: Weaponsmithing 1 * Defense 2 * Engineering (Construction) 3 * Lore: Architecture 2 * War Fans 1 Acting 1 Games: Go 1 Investigation 2 Lore: Heraldry 2 Lore: Shadowlands 1 Kenjutsu 2 Commerce 1 Techniques: The Kaiu Method: +1k0 School Skills, or +2k2 with Void Equipment: Heavy Armor, Sturdy Clothing, Daisho, No Dachi, Traveling Pack, 3 koku XP Spent: 12 (Abilities) + 12 (Advantages) + 26 (Skills) -10 (Disadvantages) = 40 TychoBrahesNose fucked around with this message at 12:46 on May 7, 2013 |
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Jan 26, 2013 07:08
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