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"Blossoms in current Whiling away youthful days On frivolous things We talk of infrastructure While happiness flows away." - Doji Saito Infrastructure is a side-story set in the same timeline as Zero Suit Ridley's ongoing Scorpion Emperor megacampaign. While the Bushido games are set in the Empire proper, at the center of things, Infrastructure focuses on a far off corner of Rokugan. Specifically, the northern edge, beyond the Great Wall of the North. Shoju I has decreed that a new line of fortifications be built to secure the northern borders, in the far reaches of Dragon and Phoenix lands. The central keep is to be built on the site of an ancient fortress, known as Thundering Falls Castle. The castle is in the foothills on the far side of the mountains, as they give way to the steppes and valleys of yobanjin lands, near the eponymous falls and at the banks of a great river. The castle is to be restored, and then a bridge built to connect it to a twin fortress on the far side of the river. In addition to building Shiro Kyodai, the road leading north to Yobanjin Mura is to be improved, and then extended into the mountains. A number of smaller forts are to be built as well, on the southern bank of the river the Thunder Falls flows into. The Emperor has decreed this is to be the new border of the Empire. Publicly the project has been explained by an increasing number of raids by yobanjin. There have been more raids, but their impact has been small. The truth of the matter is that Shoju I desires non-Rokugani allies, and more control over the Phoenix and the Dragon - without doing something overt to anger them. Your characters have been dropped into this stew. It's a rare moment of exploration for the Rokugani, and an even rarer attempt to interact with another culture on an official basis. And above all else you have to get that fortress built and that road finished, or none of your other efforts will matter. A few points to consider about this game when making your character:
Character Creation You should make an IR 2 character, with a pool of 90 XP to build. Any character idea will be given consideration, with the caveats above, particularly with courtiers. You can also get better gear than is provided by default with your starting outfit, up to 50 koku. You can have a katana for 30 koku (you didn't actually buy it of course, just for book keeping). You don't have to answer the 20 questions, but everyone does anyways. I would like a background for the character though - if you can build it into the 20 questions, fine, but I'd rather have a paragraph summary or supplement. In addition to the standard 20Q, consider:
A successful applicant:
PLAYERS OF OTHER GAMES IN THE SCORPION EMPEROR CAMPAIGN MAY SUBMIT CHARACTERS. Players new to L5R or the Scorpion Emperor are of course welcome as well, and any who have questions can find me on IRC on synirc in #badwrongfun after 7pm eastern most nights. There's a whole lot of folks there who can generally assist in getting characters or who know what's what in the campaign so far. Special note for Duty players: It has to be a NEW poem about infrastructure.  Recruiting will close 8PM Eastern (Midnight GMT) on Saturday, March 30th. EDIT: Sorry, no naga or nezumi! I love snakes and ratlings, but there are just too many parts of this game where you won't have something to do - administration is a big part of this campaign. Comrade Gorbash fucked around with this message at Mar 30, 2013 around 18:33 |
| # ? Mar 22, 2013 02:50 |
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| # ? May 18, 2013 08:32 |
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Turned out to be Mantis! Yoritomo Yuko  Yoritomo Yuko is both one of the Yoritomo family's success stories and public failures. On the one hand, she has mastered the clan's arts, furthering the goals of the Empire via her deep understanding of the principles of economics and how they actually apply to samurai and Imperial projects. She's quite good at that, and has even managed to solve some budgetary issues that plagued sea trade. The problem is that her late husband was found guilty of treachery. She had no idea - the two were not close by any means, and it had been an entirely political arrangement. Still, her husband, Kitsuki Fumio, had undoubtedly leaked information on his investigations to agents of Toturi. He was rightfully executed, and Yuko came under public suspicion as a result. In order to prove her loyalty, she "volunteered" for the job of working on the Shiro Kyodai project. It's not a bad job, really. The yobanjin are fascinating, the work is interesting, and she might be able to find a useful new husband out here - one who won't look down on her for being Kasuga, since they're all technically on punishment detail. One, ideally, who will be less likely to get her executed and more likely to be useful to the Mantis. pre:Name: Yoritomo Yuko Rank: 2 Clan: Mantis Experience: 97 (0 unspent) School: Yoritomo Courtier Insight: 152 Honor: 2.5 Glory: ?.? Infamy: 0 Status: ?.? Taint: 0 Earth: 3 Stamina 3 Willpower 3 Air: 3 Reflexes 3 Awareness 3 Water: 2 Strength 2 Perception 3 Fire: 2 Agility 2 Intelligence 3 Void: 2 Skill Rank Trait Emphasis Commerce 3 Int Appraisal Courtier 3 Awa Defense 1 Ref Etiquette 3 Awa Intimidation 3 Wil Control Sincerity 2 Awa Animal Handling 3 Awa Dogs Kyujutsu 3 Ref Temptation 2 Awa Tea Ceremony 1 Void Lore: Yobanjin Culture 1 Int Hunting 1 Per Horsemanship 1 Agi Advantages Points Languages: Yobanjin 1 Daikoku's Blessing 3 Inheritance: Trained Falcon 2 Disadvantages Points Small 3 Greedy 4 Gear (still in flux): Extravagant Clothing, Wakizashi, Yumi, Calligraphy Set, Traveling Pack (Tea Set, Lucky Cricket, Fan, Pet Dog, Pet Dog, Makeup Kit, Wicker Umbrella, Pillow Book), Light Armor, Rokugani Pony, 10 koku Techniques: Rank 1: Duty Before Honor - Do not lose Glory or Honor for public use of Commerce, or lose Honor from use of Intimidation (Control). All Social skill rolls against ronin, bandits, gang members, mercenaries, pirates or other lawless types get (School Rank) free Raises. Rank 2: Storm Heart - When using Intimidation (Control), your Willpower is considered one rank higher, or 2 ranks higher against samurai of lower Status. Mantis 2. What family does your character belong to? Yoritomo - the true Mantis. 3. Is your character a bushi, a shugenja, or a courtier? That's a question, isn't it? Courtier, technically. 4. How would others describe your character’s appearance? Organized. Prim, proper, even imperious...but, on the other hand, with touches of more thuggish "fashion" and other elements that mark her out as not a fine court lady. 5. What is your character’s primary motivation? To redeem her good name, find a husband who won't be a total embarrassment and maybe even earn herself a little acclaim among the family. 6. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? Her younger brother, Yoritomo Hayate, who was fostered among the Tsuruchi in an attempt to strengthen the Mantis alliance. 7. What is your character’s greatest strength and weakness? Yuko's greatest strength is her dedication. She really does believe in the Empire and the need to keep it strong. Her greatest weakness, however, is her ambition. She's not happy with being consigned to being a traitor's wife - she wants respect. Real respect. That desire for respect can easily blind her. 8. What does your character think of bushido? Useful in others. In many ways, a good guide for action...when dealing with samurai. But a Yoritomo must understand that some things are not shameful. 9. What is your character’s opinion of his clan? The Mantis are vital to the Empire. The alliance of the Mantis families is vital. Now if only they'd all stop whining about it. 10. Is your character married? Not any more. 11. Does your character have any prejudices? Yuko has little patience for the Lion - or, for that matter, for most hot-blooded and loud samurai. She prefers the quieter, more thoughtful ones, and tends to think of loud and aggressive people as inherently stupid. 12. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? Firstly, to the Mantis Clan. Secondly, to the Empire. Herself third, and the Emperor Shoju a distant fourth - for Yuko, it is about Empire, not Emperor. 13. What are your character’s favorite and least favorite things? Though she rarely shows it in public, Yoritomo Yuko adores dogs (and, to a lesser extent, falcons and horses). She has brought a pair of shiba inu with her, and her spare time is spent training and playing with them. She has an intense distaste for frogs, owing to a childhood incident in which one was dropped down her kimono. Yuko is also nervous during thunderstorms, though it mostly makes her edgy and irritable rather than terrified. 14. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? She tends to touch her hair when annoyed, and as she gets nervous or angry her words become more and more clipped. 15. What about your character’s emotions? Kasuga Yuko tries to keep her emotions under control. They get in the way of careful analysis of trade and economics. However, she has a soft spot for animals of all kinds. She also allows herself to show emotions (even those she is not actually feeling; perhaps especially those) during negotiations in order to throw people off-guard. 16. How would your character handle a subordinate’s improper behavior? A firm and absolutely scathing lecture in private. 17. How would your character’s parents describe him? A dutiful but unlucky daughter. Perhaps too interested in her own personal standing for their tastes, but able. 18. What is your character’s highest ambition? To be a respected and beloved social figure. 19. How religious is your character? Religion is for other people, though it is always wise to pay respects to Daikoku and the weather kami. 20. How will your character die? In a nice home in Shiro Kyodai, either older and wiser or perhaps just more resentful. 21. Why is your character part of this expedition? To prove her loyalty after that idiot Fumio managed to betray the Empire. Yuko has very little good to say about her late ex-husband. 22. What did you do to get to IR2? Managed a successful series of trade negotiations with pirates until the rest of the clan could wipe them out. Helped to try and keep the Mantis "alliance" from exploding. 23. What do you hope to find in the far north? Respect, absolution and a husband, in roughly that order. 24. What do you think of the yobanjin? They are a very interesting people, aren't they? Primitive, but very interesting. Poem: Spring blossoms fading, Forgotten as time goes on. But roads? Forever. Mors Rattus fucked around with this message at Mar 22, 2013 around 21:26 |
| # ? Mar 22, 2013 02:51 |
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IRON CHEF ROKUGAN
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| # ? Mar 22, 2013 03:58 |
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Ichiro Jinpachi Ichiro Jinpachi should have retired years ago. In a sense he had, consigned to tallying ledgers and overseeing a small farming village. Yet the fire still burned in his heart; the battles he had fought, the glory he had earned. What a shame to set all that aside in favor of paperwork and property disputes. Yet what could he do? The Empire was at peace. The only battles to be found were in the courts. He despaired. When rumor of an expedition to the north began to spread, a spark grew in his eyes. His wife often found her husband pacing his balcony, deep in thought. As rumor grew into fact, the spark grew into a fire. Often he could be found in the libraries, perusing what maps they had of the northlands. Eventually he made up his mind. "Beloved wife, I have made a decision." He announced one evening. "I know, honored husband. I have made the arrangements. You need only our lord's permission, and the necessary letters will be sent. Do not think you are the only one growing weary of idleness." She said with a gentle smile. Her husband nodded, quickly masking his surprise. The Empire may be at peace, but the north was wild and dangerous. Jinpachi could hardly wait. pre:Ichiro Bushi 2 Insight 151 Exp 90 (0 unspent) Honor 3.5 Status 1 Glory 1 Earth 3 Stamina 3 Willpower 3 Air 2 Reflexes 2 Awareness 2 Water 3 Strength 4 Perception 3 Fire 3 Agility 3 Intelligence 3 Void 2 Techniques/Masteries Transcend The Mountain: You may re-roll any Skill roll or Trait roll which uses Strength, but you must keep the results of the second roll. You suffer no movement or combat penalties for Moderate terrain, and only half the normal penalty for Difficult terrain. Strength of the Badger: A number of times per session equal to your Strength Rank, you may re-roll a damage roll, keeping the better of the two results. Skills: Rank Trait Emphasis Rolls *Athletics 2 Str 6k4 *Commerce 2 Int 5k3 *Defense 2 Ref 4k2 *Heavy Weapons 3 Agi Tetsubo 6k3 Ignore 2 points reduction *Jiujutsu 1 Agi 4k3 *Kenjutsu 1 Agi Katana 4k3 *Lore: Yobanjin 1 Int 4k3 Investigation 1 Per 4k3 Etiquette 1 Awa 3k2 Artisan: Bonsai 2 Awa 4k2 Battle 2 Per 5k3 Intimidation 1 Awa 3k2 Game: Fortunes & Winds 1 Awa 3k2 Artisan: Poetry 1 Awa 3k2 Advantages Disadvantages Blissful Betrothal (3) True Love (3) (Wife) Kharmic Tie Rank 4 (2) (Wife) Bad Fortune: Lingering Misfortune (3) Large (4) Strength of the Earth (2) Languages: Yobanjin (1) Combat TN-to-be-hit: 15 (TN 25, Reduction 5 in Heavy Armor) Initiative: 4k2 Katana: 7k2 damage Wakizashi: 6k2 damage Tetsubo: 8k3 damage Outfit: Heavy Armor, Sturdy Clothing, Daisho, Tetsubo, Traveling pack, Rokugani Pony x2 I am Ichiro, guardians of the Empire from foreign invasion. Is your character a Bushi, Shugenja, or Courtier? I am a bushi. Like my cousins the Crab, I stand firm against my enemies as they crash futiley against my strength. How would others describe your character's appearance? Large, grizzled, and well past the age of retirement. They would not say this within earshot, however. If I have slowed down, it is only because my duties have kept me regrettably idle. I have quite an excellently maintained beard, however, and all are free to compliment it. What is your character's primary motivation? To keep my beautiful Naomi-chan happy. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? My wife, without a doubt. No man could ask for a more dutiful, intelligent, and spirited woman. What is your character's greatest strength and weakness? I am a walking mountain. What is stronger than a mountain? The woman who can make that mountain smile, that's what. What does your character think of Bushido? The foundation of the Empire. Without it, we are nothing but animals. What is your character's opinion of her Clan? The Badger may be small, but we serve no less faithfully then any Great Clan. I am proud to work alongside such noble samurai. Is your character married? Ah, Naomi-chan, light of my life. She was sent to our court as part of a delegation from the Crab, and I was immediately smitten. Imagine, me, with fifty years and countless battles behind me, acting like a boy fresh from his gempukku in the presence of this woman half my age! My amateurish attempts at poetry somehow managed to win me her affections. Despite the age difference, we had a good rapport, and my Lord saw an excellent opportunity to strengthen ties with the Crab. We were wed not even a year ago, and life is good. Does your character have any prejudices? I'm too old for such petty notions. Warm sake, my loving wife, success in my duties. These are all that concern me. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? Our Lord leads us well. He need but call, and I will answer. What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? I find a deep peace in tending my bonsai. In an increasingly turbulent Empire, it is my island of stability. Least favorite thing? Having to sit around, overseeing tax collection and other tedious duties. It is necessary, of course, but these bones ache for adventure. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? Not so much a mannerism, but I spoil my wife terribly. She insists I be more reasonable with my money. Bah! Money does not make anyone happy. Naomi-chan's smile when I give her a new kimono, that's worth something. What about your character's emotions? I do my best to maintain the proper stoicism becoming of a samurai. Nevertheless, I can get quite loud when the sake has been flowing or weapons are drawn. How would your character respond to a subordinate's improper behavior? A reprimand if it is minor. A sound thrashing otherwise. We have standards to maintain. How would your character's parents describe him? Loud, boisterous, headstrong, and powerful as an ox. These days the boisterousness has mellowed, but only somewhat. What is your character's highest ambition? To find a foe capable of slaying me, and do glorious battle with them in the light of the dawn. A suitably romantic end, don't you think? How religious is your character? I pay the Kami and Fortunes their due respect, but on the whole I do not concern myself with their doings. The Tao has its lessons to teach, but far too many samurai read instead of doing. How will your character die? At the hands of a skilled warrior. I am far too stubborn to simply die naturally. Why is your character part of this expedition? My Lord granted me permission to step down from my duties overseeing land and accompany this expedition. I had grown weary of my sedentary life, growing fat and lazy. My wife and I are warriors! We need enemies to crush and brave deeds to recount! I will not find these things sitting on my backside. My role in this endeavor is to protect the workers, assist in trade and budgetary concerns, advise on matters regarding the yobanjin, and observe the fortifications for weaknesses an enemy might exploit. What did you do to get to IR2? I have lived many years and fought many battles. I am ashamed to admit, my skills have grown rusty from disuse. What do you hope to find in the far north? Fortune and glory, child. Fortune and glory. What do you think of the yobanjin? Barbarians, the lot of them. They could be civilized if they wished, but their pride will not permit them to abandon their ways. I can at least respect that. Bayushi are red Kakita are blue I love infrastructure This is not a haiku Shardix fucked around with this message at Mar 23, 2013 around 01:43 |
| # ? Mar 22, 2013 04:08 |
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quote:Players new to L5R or the Scorpion Emperor are of course welcome as well, Awww yeah. All the recent L5R buzz in TG got me to check out the book and it seems like a really cool setting. Keep your eyes out for a Mantis Bushi by yours truly soon.
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| # ? Mar 22, 2013 04:15 |
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As mentioned in IRC I'll put together a Kaiu Engineer so I can both stab people in the face and build some wonderful INFRASTRUCTURE. edit: What traits will you be using for crafting weapons and armour seeing as the books never specify? Edit: Intelligence maybe? The Kaiu Engineers and the Tsi Smith school both give it as their school bonus, so I'm guessing it's meant to be related to crafting. team overhead smash fucked around with this message at Mar 22, 2013 around 07:31 |
| # ? Mar 22, 2013 07:16 |
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Engineering is based on Int, which is why the Kaiu Engineers get it. Craft varies, but given your position and what you'd likely be working on, normally it will be Intelligence. As with other skills, different traits may apply depending on circumstances - if you're trying to forge a blade in a single night I might call for Craft+Stamina since its less a feat of impressive creation as it is of endurance. But typically you'd have plenty of time so it's more a matter of judging correctly and making decisions as raw strength. The difference between a great smith and an average one isn't strength, after all - you just need to be strong enough.
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| # ? Mar 22, 2013 13:04 |
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Making a Matsu Beastmaster to protect all the workers from wild animals.
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| # ? Mar 22, 2013 20:32 |
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I've statted up a Taoist Swordsmansmith, but she turned out kind of... Awkward, socially speaking. pre:SCRAPPED Siivola fucked around with this message at Mar 24, 2013 around 14:25 |
| # ? Mar 22, 2013 21:09 |
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Kaiu Kiriyama Look at my magnificent crab codpiece while I tell you my haiku Shadlowlands seeks to destroy our Infrastructure The Crab will stop them i am a Crab, i'm not good at this, shut up. Kaiu Kiriyama is a Crab's Crab. He might not be a headstrong Hida charging off to fight the Shadowland but he doesn't tolerate idiots, he speaks his mind and he's always willing to back up words with his blade. It is strange then that he hasn't actually lived in Crab lands for many years. The Crab's aid in elevating Shoju to the Imperial throne galled Kiriyama, who saw it as absurd that the Clan that represents the antithesis of the Crab should get their support to rule Rokugan. That alone he could have held his tongue over and served well. Yet with the coming of the Lion and the Crane to the wall and the pushing back of the Shadowlands, he simply wasn't needed any more. The Shadowland was pushed back and he was surplus to requirements. Speaking to his clan elders, he arranged for a leave of absence for himself and his son Hirata - ostensibly to seek knowledge of other craftsmen and eventually bring it back to the Clan. Although his wife was furious with him, Kaiu didn't stick around long enough to receive much of it and soon set off. In the last 5 years he has travelled the land. Unicorn, Dragon and Mantis lands for the most part; those lands where a wandering Crab samurai will be treated most even handedly. He has stuck to his duty to search for new techniques for crafting, but it has also been a chance to free himself from the strictures of daily life and bond with his son in a way he missed while he was busy reinforcing the Kaiu Wall endlessly. He's found Hirata to be a little too educated and courtly and not as fierce as he would have hoped, but they have formed a close bond and Kaiu continues to keep his son practising katas. After returning to his home a few months ago, his family were glad to see him but there was almost no need for yet another engineer on the wall with the Shadowland at it's weakest in centuries. Instead there was need for a skilled man to assist with an imperial decree in the far north. Taking his son with him (now just a few years short of his gempukku) and incensing his wife again just after they'd reconciled, Kaiu went to help reinforce the borders of the empire with his knowledge and swift sword-arm. pre:Kaiu Engineer 2 Insight 164 Exp 90 (0 unspent) Honor 4.5 Status 1 Glory 1 Earth 3 Stamina 3 Willpower 3 Air 2 Reflexes 2 Awareness 2 Water 3 Strength 3 Perception 3 Fire 4 Agility 4 Intelligence 4 Void 2 Techniques/Masteries THE KAIU METHOD: You gain a bonus of +1k0 when making any School Skill Roll. When spending a Void Point to augment a School Skill Roll, you gain a bonus of +2k2 instead of +1k1 (non-cumulative). THE PATH OF STONE: When constructing any large structure (temple-sized or larger), you may make an Engineering Skill Roll at TN 25 to add an additional number of Wounds to the structure equal to your School Rank x 100. Also, when commanding a siege engine, you may re-roll once any of the siege engine’s damage dice that roll below your School Rank. Skills: Rank Trait Emphasis Rolls Artisan (Gardening) 1 Awa 3k2 Athletics 1 Str 4k3 Battle 1 Per 3k2 Courtier 1 Awa 3k2 Craft (Armorsmithing) 2 Int 6k4 Craft (Bowyer) 1 Int 5k4 Craft (Weaponsmithing) 2 Int 6k4 Defense 1 Ref 3k2 Engineering 3 Int Construction 7k4 Etiquette 1 Awa 3k1 Horsemanship 1 Agi 5k4 Kenjutsu 3 Agi 7k4 Kyujutsu 1 Ref 3k2 Lore (Architecture) 1 Int 5k4 Meditation 1 Void 3k2 Sincerity 1 Awa 3k2 War Fan 1 Agi 5k4 Mastery Kenjutsu - Damage rolls +1k0 Advantages Disadvantages Water Hammer Citizen Contrary Failure of Bushido (Courtesy) Dependant Combat TN-to-be-hit: 15 (TN 25, Reduction 5 in Heavy Armor) Initiative: 4k2 Katana: 7k2 damage Wakizashi: 6k2 damage Outfit: Heavy Armor, Sturdy Clothing, Daisho, War Fan, Traveling Pack, 3 koku - Blacksmith's Hammer - Bottle of Sake x2 - Ink Brush Kit - Pillow Book - Small tent - Snowshoes - Straw Cloak - Sweets - Tatami mat The Crab and proud of it! 2. What family does your character belong to? The Kaiu, born and true. 3. Is your character a bushi, a shugenja, or a courtier? Bushi, without question. We have some shugenja, of course, but courtiers? Why would you ask me that? A Crab courtier is either no true Crab or no true courtier. The two are mutually exclusive. 4. How would others describe your character’s appearance? Hard and tough, but clean. I'm not working into the night patching up damage to the wall any more. I am clean shaven and look younger than I did seven years ago. 5. What is your character’s primary motivation? I want to build vast structures that will outlast me and live throughout the centuries, protection my great-great-grandchildren which I hope Hirata will provide me plenty of when he's older. 6. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? I'd trust practically any Crab with my life and I've had to on occasion. Aside from that, my brother Tsuburaya, my wife Araki and my son Hirata. 7. What is your character’s greatest strength and weakness? My dedication is my greatest strength. I am skilled enough with a sword and have knowledge of construction that is rare among samurai, but it is my willingness to give my all in applying it that is my true strength. My weakness is the same as any Crab. I do not mince my words and many look down on me for that. Let them. 8. What does your character think of bushido? What a wonderful ideal, one that others can live by because of the sacrifices the Crab have made for millennia. It is decent enough, but it is not something everyone can afford to live by if they have a duty to perform. 9. What is your character’s opinion of his clan? The single most important clan in Rokugan. Every clan has warriors. Every clan has courtiers. Every clan along the coast has a navy. Every clan has powerful Shugenjas. If the Phoenix or the Lion or some other clan were to disappear, the void would be filled. Only one clan guards the wall and protects everyone else. We are indispensable. 10. Is your character married? Yes, to a fine spirited woman! 11. Does your character have any prejudices? I look down at courtiers and weaklings a little yes. But why not? Whatever they contribute with their utter 'sincerity' does not match the worth of a Katana in a pair of skilled hands. 12. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? My Clan, then my family. After my clan decided to back the Emperor's murder I didn't like it, but I did what I was told so as not to defy them. Now we have the usurper on the throne the position of Emperor means substantially less than it used to, though I don't feel the need to go assaulting the Imperial Capital either. I am loyal to Shoju, just not as loyal as I am to my clan, family, comrades or friends. 13. What are your character’s favorite and least favorite things? I like a good drink, a good fight and a good woman. Failing those, give me work I can do with my hands to try and fashion something of excellence. Well, and my son, of course. For least favourite, the Shadowlands. Not something I expect to encounter, but with the Crab you have that hate drummed into you. For what I am likely to encounter in the north, snobbish effeminate courtiers who wouldn't know one end of a katana from the other if I'd just stuck it through their chest. 14. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? A habitual irritation that comes from speaking to idiots. 15. What about your character’s emotions? I am loud, but not grim and I like to laugh. Once we're no longer in danger my tension goes and I am carefree as a mantis on his second bottle of sake. I can get a touch annoyed when others look down at me or my clan, but I am far from alone in that. 16. How would your character handle a subordinate’s improper behavior? I'd tell him to focus before he gets us killed, unless he's engaged in a Crane's idea of what constitutes improper behaviour like talking about a taboo subject like the Shadowlands in polite company. In that case I'd be tempted to tell them to keep up the good work, though I probably wouldn't just because I'd never hear the end of it. 17. How would your character’s parents describe him? A face like a slapped arse and manners to match, though mother was joking when she said that. I hope she was, at least. I have done my duty to the clan and they respect that. My path is not like the path of other Crab or my ancestors, but the times we live in are different too. 18. What is your character’s highest ambition? I would like to craft a Kaiu blade that is exceptional, even compared to other Kaiu blades. Something beyond the excellence that most aspire to. 19. How religious is your character? I will make occasional offerings to the fortunes or my ancestors when I get the chance. The Tao has never been a focus of mine. I hope Bishamon will hear my prayers before a battle to give me strength. Maybe he will listen, maybe he won't, but how what Shinsei said a thousand years ago can help I don't know. 20. How will your character die? Gloriously in battle or in a well fortified castle at a ripe old age, knowing my constructions were impervious to everything the enemy attempted. 21. Why is your character part of this expedition? If you needs roads, castles, forts and bridges build then you need a Kaiu engineer. Other clans have their engineers too, but they don't match up to the Kaiu. They are also often courtiers and not the kind of Samurai who will deep travel into enemy territory to look at the possibilities for building a new settlement. As for why I personally am here, I enjoy relative freedom of being able to choose how I do my duty. I could lead a team to keep one section of the Wall in good repair, but I'd prefer something that allows me to choose my own path rather than just repairing what was made hundreds of years ago. Besides, too little action back home nowadays and a few hurt feelings over my disagreement about whether we should support Shoju. 22. What did you do to get to IR2? I travelled Rokugan and found the best craftsmen who would take me in, learning all that I could. With the chaos of the times, this also meant running into a more than usual about of trouble. I grew better with a blade and at making blades. 23. What do you hope to find in the far north? A rotting canvas of destroyed and ruined forts and roads ready to be rebuilt according to the principles of Kaiu engineering, combined with a possible gaijin enemy to fight and defeat. 24. What do you think of the yobanjin? My opinion is split. I don't care that they are primitive and live by a different set of rules, too many people accuse the Crab of that for me to care. They could be good, courageous people who I would get along with easily. If we can forge an alliance with Nezumi we can do so with gaijin as long as the will is there to do so. However they have been said to attack Dragon and Phoenix holdings in border raids. If enemies from across the border are attacking Rokugan, as a Crab I cannot stand for it. team overhead smash fucked around with this message at Mar 31, 2013 around 16:20 |
| # ? Mar 22, 2013 23:22 |
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Two quick notes! The most important question for your characters is why are you at Shiro Kyodai? While personal quests and motivations are fine, pretty much all the action is going to center on the expedition, so make sure your goals fit in with that. ALSO: Success is not guaranteed! It is entirely possible this campaign will end with the failure of the expedition. It's up to you guys to make it through.
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| # ? Mar 22, 2013 23:39 |
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IRON CHEF man that dude is more masculine than I remember... code:All told, there was little they could truly object to: her designs upon the plate were as pleasing to the eye as any could hope for, and she could just as easily evoke emotion through a well-chosen pairing of fish as any traditional artist could with their work. Still, for all that they marveled at how she pleased their palates, Kyouko's family generally showed more regard for her well-calligraphed menus than for her chosen field. Let it not be said they did not try to be supportive, however. For all that they did and still do look down on her choices, they hardly wished to be rid of her. To show their befuddled approval, for her gempukku ceremony they sought out an ancestor known to be quite fond of quality food and drink, and found they had the broken remnants of a katana he once owned. They had handles affixed to the pieces, creating for Kyouko a set of fine knives for her to use in the kitchen. They still hold hopes that she'll take up something else, but have mostly given up actually believing it will ever happen. Still, even with that family matter settled, Kyouko has had much to struggle with in her search for legitimacy. She has spent some time building up a reputation as a skilled chef, even preparing food to much regard at several minor courts, but few people hold the actual practice in much esteem. When word of the expedidition to Shiro Kyodai arose, Kyouko viewed it as an opportunity, even going so far as to volunteer for the job. If she can present her food as being critical to the forging of a new alliance, there's few who could gainsay its place as art. Of course, the reality involves a lot more in the way of planning meals for a great many very hungry workers who care not in the slightest for the artistry of the most delicate sushi, short supplies, and cooking staff with little regard for her ideas either, and trying to accomodate the outlandish tastes of foreign guests with only her hasty studies and heavily-accented knowledge of their language, but no one said this would be easy... The warm summer breeze Children play on streets and lanes Always look both ways The beauty of snow Roads show deadly treachery Please invent the plow neongrey fucked around with this message at Mar 23, 2013 around 04:48 |
| # ? Mar 23, 2013 00:09 |
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Gonna make a dude, still torn on concepts but this looks like a great campaign idea.
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| # ? Mar 23, 2013 03:19 |
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Old Lion still prowls. The master of grassy seas. Turns North to bares fangs. Matsu Ren  Matsu Ren had always thought of himself as lucky. He was born to one of the power powerful families in Rogukan, the mighty Matsu. He was schooled in and excelled at the tenets of Bushido. Already he was gaining a reputation as a youth with a bright future ahead of him. His admittance into the Beastmaster school was only further evidence of this.As a Beastmaster his childish “way with animals” grew into a deep bond of understanding with his Pride. Ren and his lions in many aspects became one soul as they bonded. With the lions at his back Ren thought he could overcome anything. And so, for a few years at least, Ren truly was lucky. Then he actually started fighting. In the Lion attempt to retake Toshi Ranbo wo Shien Shite Reigisaho Ren got his first taste of battle. And his first taste of defeat. The battle was a disaster and Ren, along with his fellow Lions, went home in shame, furious about the loss of honor as well as the loss of the city. Ren nursed a resentment for the Crane during that time, and when the Lion-Crane War started to bubble over Ren was at the forefront. And though he claimed victory a number of times, he started to look to the future and did not like what he saw. Ren realized, along with others, that the Lion had a real chance of losing this war if it ever became more intense or lasted much longer. He decided that the truly honorable thing to do would be to try to call for peace instead of allowing his Clan to fight to defeat. It was then that he tried to strike up a relationship to Doji Itchi, a Crane courtier. And though the two did eventually come close they were unable to make any progress towards peace, as Bayushi Shoju launched his coup. Ren and Itchi fought for the first day against the Scorpion usurper, but when it became clear that the line of Hantei had ended that Shoju would indeed be emperor, Ren laid down his sword. Later Itchi would claim Ren had made his choice in a state of delirium. The Crane thought Ren was still in a state of shock in losing his arm above the elbow the day before. But Ren was clearheaded. In his view to truly follow bushido he needed to remain a faithful servant of the Emperor, no matter who sat on the throne. He watched in shame as Toturi forsake his honor, his duty, and his Clan and became ronin. He also was saddened as many of his friends and family chose to commit seppuku rather than follow the Scorpion Emperor. Ren for his part requested to return to his home and be with his wife. Years of being on the losing side made him not quite as thirsty for battle as he had once been. His wish was granted and the old Lion returned home, to be with his wife Rina and his children. He has spent the last decade teaching young Beastmasters and enjoying retirement. He has taken up gardening and bonsai, though doing both with only one arm is difficult. It is a good life, but it is a routine one. Every now and again, Ren stands outside of his home, eyes looking across the fields of grass. He looks for some sign of trouble. He may even be hoping for it. pre:
Clan: Lion
School: Matsu Beastmaster
School Rank: 2
Insight Rank: 2
Insight: 156
Experience: 90/90
Honor: 5.5
Glory: 1
Infamy: 0
Status: 1
Taint: 0
Air: 3 Fire: 3
Ref: 3 Agi: 3
Awa: 3 Int: 3
Earth: 2 Water: 3
Sta: 2 Str: 3
Wil: 2 Per: 3
Void: 2
Initiative: 5k3
Armor TN: 25 (20 Base, 5 Armor, +3 Reduction Bonus)
Skill Rank Trait Emphasis/Mastery
Battle 1 Per
Hunting 3 Per Tracking, Trailblazing
Kenjutsu 3 Agi (3) - 1k0 to damage
Iaijutsu 3 Ref (3) Readying Katana is a Free action.
Defense 3 Ref (3) Keep Defense/Ref roll for subsequent Full Defense Stance.
Animal Handling 2 Awa
Lore, Nature 2 Int
Calligraphy 1 Int
Etiquette 1 Awa
Stealth 1 Agi
Athletics 3 Str (3) No impedance on Moderate terrain. Difficult terrain -Water 1
Artisan, Gardening 1 Awa
Artisan, Bonsai 1 Awa
Craft, Brewing 1 VARIES
Advantage Points
Silent 3
Servant (Tomo) 3
Luck 3
Disadvantage Points
Overconfident 3
Missing Limb (right arm) 6
Weapon Attack Damage
Katana 6k3 6k2
Wakizashi 6k3 5k2
Claw Knives 3k3 3k2
Techniques
ONE WITH THE PRIDE
Get one warcat. The lion follows basic commands without question. Will not attack me without being
compelled to in some way. I can direct warcat to Attack as a Complex Action. Any one warcat who
is not attacking will use the Guard Action to protect me.
HEART OF THE BEAST
Get another lion! Me and lions gain the crea- ture trait of Swift 2 (Core book, p. 320) All lions
gain an additional Wound Rank that changes the end of their progression from a normal lion’s to:
36: +15, 60: Dead.
Outfit and Equipment
Light Armor, Sturdy Clothing, Daisho (katana + wakizashi), Claw Knife,
Traveling Pack (containing: Bottle of sake, Bottle of shochu, Daisho stand, Sake cup, Sweets, Smoking
pipe, Incense brazier, Small tent, Coin purse, Wide-brimmed straw hat)Small statue for Ancenstor
worship, 50 koku.
Tomo
AIR: 2
EARTH: 2
FIRE: 2
WATER: 2
Initiative: 4k2
Attack: 5k2
Damage: 5k2
Armor TN: 15
Reduction: 1
Skills:
Kyujutsu 3 (String bow is Simple Action
Ruto and Rifu the lions.
AIR: 2 Ref - 3
EARTH: 4 Sta - 4
FIRE: 1 Agi - 3
WATER: 3 Str - 6
Initiative: 4k3
Attack: Claw 5k3 (Simple)
Bite 6k3 (Complex)
Damage: Claw 4k3
Bite 4k4
Armor TN: 20
Reduction: 3
Wounds: 12: +5; 24: +10; 36: +15, 60: Dead.
Skills:
Hunting 3
Stealth 3
Abilities/Traits
Fear 1
Swift 2
1.WHAT CLAN DOES YOUR CHARACTER BELONG TO? Ishi-san my friend. I am so glad that you have decided to contact me, I thought as a Lion I would have become unpopular in your view.... 2.WHAT FAMILY DOES YOUR CHARACTER BELONG TO? .....particularly as a Matsu I am aware of our reputation... 3. IS YOUR CHARACTER A BUSHI, A SHUGENJA, OR A COURTIER? ..but I am glad to hear that you remember not all Lion bushi are frenzied berserkers! 4. HOW WOULD OTHERS DESCRIBE YOUR CHARACTER’S APPEARANCE? In response to your questions, I am doing as well as can be expected. More white hairs than I had when we last met, (I daresay I could pass for one of you Crane these days!). When I look into the mirror I can see the years on my face, under all of scars. The arm is still something I am not unaccustomed to, even after nearly a decade I still forget it’s lost. Lucky for me I’ve always been left-handed! And before you ask, yes I have kept the mustache. 5. WHAT IS YOUR CHARACTER’S PRIMARY MOTIVATION? Yes, I still have the cats. I have taken to helping some of the younger Lions train their own these days. It makes me happy in a way war never did. The act of taming the wilderness, of taking chaos and turning it into order. 6. WHO IS THE PERSON YOUR CHARACTER TRUSTS MOST IN THE WORLD? Rina is in good health, she keeps the house in order and me out of trouble. 7. WHAT IS YOUR CHARACTER’S GREATEST STRENGTH AND WEAKNESS? Now, I have to say when you wrote I was as “brave as an ox and had as much sense sometimes” I took offense to that. Or at least I would have if it weren’t true! Ha! Who are you to comment on my bravery, after all the times I pull you out of trouble. If I had been the only calling the shots maybe we would have won the war....eh....of course, you’re right about the sense thing too. I do tend to bite off more than I can swallow. One of these days I might choke. 8. WHAT DOES YOUR CHARACTER THINK OF BUSHIDO? I don’t want to get into a debate about Bushido with you again, at least not sober and away from my sword. But I will say this, you are wrong when you say I hold too strong a view on Honor. For me, Honor is what lets me hold myself to the other tenets. Without wanting to honor myself, my family, my clan, and my empire, what am I? 9. WHAT IS YOUR CHARACTER’S OPINION OF HIS CLAN? I do understand your opinion, misformed though it may be. Us Lions tend to view the world so narrowly. These young ones I teach are almost fanatics about their Honor. But I can see why they cling to it, we have fallen so far we need something to remind us who we were. You know that I regret nothing about our actions during the coup...just...sometimes I wonder if Toturi was right all along. 10. IS YOUR CHARACTER MARRIED? Sorry for reliving the past, Rina says I “sulk” too much. What kind of word is that for a bushi? “sulk” I sometimes think my wife invents new words just to insult me, the harpy. 11. DOES YOUR CHARACTER HAVE ANY PREJUDICES? Still, I see these ronin spreading across the lands, and other who do not hold Bushido in any regard and it bothers me. I worry about Rokugan’s honor. 12. TO WHOM DOES YOUR CHARACTER OWE THE MOST LOYALTY? That is not to say I am still not loyal to the Emperor. That was where Toturi and I differed. We are the Emperor’s Right Hand, no matter what. When it became clear Shoju I would take the throne, we should have bowed immediately. The Emperor above all. 13. WHAT ARE YOUR CHARACTER’S FAVORITE AND LEAST FAVORITE THINGS? But, on to present matters. I am keeping myself busy these days. I find time to tend to my gardens and bonsai. I have made excellent progress this year, though the cats want to roll in the dirt after I seed. I have actually had to take one of the young boys, Tomo is his name, as a servant, his main responsibility is to play with the cats and keep them busy. I do not think he likes it. I also have discovered brewing! Oh, Ishi I hope to make you taste some of my home made saki someday! However, when it rains and we are all forced indoors, Rina insists on teaching me to play board games. She claims they will keep my mind sharp. I am convinced she is a bog-hag in disguise. 14. DOES YOUR CHARACTER HAVE ANY RECURRING MANNERISMS? Strange, just now I was itching my elbow, the right one that isn’t there any more. I asked Rina if I do that often, she said yes and that it makes me look like I am an invalid. 15. WHAT ABOUT YOUR CHARACTER’S EMOTIONS? I know she teases me. She thinks I am too casual and aloof. She even calls me lazy! “Where is the great Matsu passion?” She says, “Where is the heart of the Lion!” I have to remind her that, when not fighting, lions spend their days lounging in the sun! 16. HOW WOULD YOUR CHARACTER HANDLE A SUBORDINATE’S IMPROPER BEHAVIOR? Though I did loose my temper the other day. Tomo has proven adept with the bow and I have been letting him practice. However the other day he left his bow strung! I verbally reprimanded him for this. One needs to show respect for his weapons! Even in times such as these when we are at peace we must always do things properly. Tomo has been properly chastised and made to reflect on his mistakes. 17. HOW WOULD YOUR CHARACTER’S PARENTS DESCRIBE HIM? I thank you for your kind words about my parents. Mother was quite ill towards the end and I believe she is happy to be with father. We have erected a shrine for her next to father’s. I hope that she tells him that I have become the bushi he hoped I would be, even though I seem to have outlived my usefulness. 18. WHAT IS YOUR CHARACTER’S HIGHEST AMBITION? I shouldn’t say that. I hope to prove that this old Lion still has his claws! I’ve certainly done a wonderful job terrorizing the children and wives around here! Still, it would be nice to get back to the field. Though I enjoy my days of peace, I want to prove the old ways, and old men, still have power. 19. HOW RELIGIOUS IS YOUR CHARACTER? Perhaps I shall pray to the ancestors about my path. Rina and I are planning our yearly trip to the Hall of Ancestors soon. 20. HOW WILL YOUR CHARACTER DIE? Of course, sooner than later I’ll be an ancestor myself! Oh, Itchi, ten years ago I dreamed of dying on the battlefield. Now I just hope that when the time comes I am in a comfortable bed. I thank you for your letter, I will write to you again soon. Matsu Ren PS: Itchi! How fortunate that I have not sent this letter yet! I have received message from the Capitol. I have been asked to assist in the building of Shiro Kyoda. Why is your character part of this expedition? Before you laugh to yourself I should explain my selection. I will not be personally building the castle, it seems as one-armed workmen are not needed! Instead I have been asked to assist in keeping the local wild life under control. Apparently there are all manner of beasties up in the north and they need people with a talent for hunting and handling. What did you do to get to IR2? It is no surprise that my name came up in the discussion! In my younger days I was quite the fearsome Beastmaster. I am certain that, if the Lion-Crane War had continued and if we had ever met I would have killed you easily my good friend! Also I distinguished myself with such ferocity during fighting as our Emperor Shoju I took the throne. Granted I was on the losing side of that conflict, but my name became well known! Yes, surely someone at Court has remembered the name Matsu Ren! What do you hope to find in the far north? And if they have, perhaps I can remember it as well! I love my home, my gardens, even my wife, but I miss the excitement of battle. I admit this freely. Rina is already against my going she assumes it is because I wish to leave her. But there is more to it than that. Earlier I spoke of my honor, that virtue that you make fun of. By going to the far north, by expanding our Empire’s borders, perhaps I will regain some of that honor I had before the war, before my arm. What do you think of the yobanjin? In any case, I have been told that we will be dealing with the yobanjin for the most part. They are a primitive people but not as simple or vile as you might assume. Surely they will welcome us with open arms! I am resolved, I shall pack at once. I’ll have to tell Tomo that he must come with me, the cats will...sulk...without him, besides the boy could use an adventure. And I do hope it is that, though I suspect the trip may be uneventful. Honorably and Humbly Mastu Ren NinjaPete fucked around with this message at Mar 29, 2013 around 03:19 |
| # ? Mar 23, 2013 18:10 |
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So, my previous character was a bit too Hard Mode, so let's try someone a bit more sociable: Shattered peaks Shadowed forests Winding ways to wander Castle walls rise Caravans seek shelter The Heaven’s hand holds a safe haven  pre:Shinjo Seong-Yun Clan: Unicorn School: Shinjo Bushi/Shinjo Scout School Rank: 2 Insight Rank: 2 Insight: 161 Experience: 100 Honor: 4.5 Glory: 1.0 Infamy: 0.0 Status: 1.0 Taint: 0.0 Air: 3 Earth: 2 Ref: 3 Awa: 3 Sta: 2 Wil: 2 Fire: 3 Water: 3 Agi: 3 Int: 3 Str: 3 Per: 3 Void: 2 Initiative: 5k3 Armor TN: 20 Skills: Athletics 3 Defense 2 Horsemanship 4 Kenjutsu 1 Kyujutsu 4 Stealth 3 Battle 3 Courtier 2 Etiquette 1 Hunting 2 Iaijutsu 1 Investigation 1 Lore: Yobanjin culture 1 Sincerity 1 Tea Ceremony 2 Masteries: Athletics: Moderate terrain does not impede movement, Difficult lowers Water Ring by 1 Horsemanship: May Full Attack on horseback Kyujutsu: Stringing a bow is a Simple Action Stealth: May move Water*5 as a Simple Action while sneaking Advantages: Language: Yobanjin dialect (1) Tactician (3) Disadvantages: Blackmailed (1) Cursed by Yume-Do (4) Gaijin Name (2) Hostage (3) Techniques: The Way of the Ki-Rin: When boosting a School Skill with a Void point, add Horsemanship to the total Swift Soul: Sneak on a horse, benefit from the Way of the Land anywhere, +1k0 to all attack rolls on horseback Inventory: Ashigaru armor, sturdy clothing, daisho, tanto, war fan, dai-kyu, han-kyu, yumi, all the arrows, traveling pack, horse, yurt, 21 koku Weapons: Katana (6k2 damage) Wakizashi (5k2 damage) Bow and willow leaf arrow (5k2 damage) Han-kyu and willow leaf arrow (3k2 damage) Because Seung-Yun has been a hostage for two years now, and he's had quite enough. Indeed, he's certain that had he stayed cooped up within the walls of Mirumoto Kaneuji's estate any longer, he would have gone mad. When Mirumoto-sama was invited to join the expedition as the master of the craftsmen, Seung-Yun outright begged to accompany him instead of staying behind. What did you do to get to IR2? Seung-Yun's done a lot since Shoju's coup ten years ago. He's ridden against gaijin raiders, protected caravans and aided magistrates track criminals. He was accepted into the Shiba Scout school and was well on the way to leading a unit of his own. Then a border skirmish broke out between the Dragon and the Unicorn over a large temple near the border. Seung-Yun's father, Shinjo Min-Ho led his forces against those of Mirumoto Kaneuji. Although Kaneuji was known more for his skills as a swordsmith than as a general, he managed to force the Unicorn forces into a stalemate. As fall came, a peace was brokered between the two clans. Hostages were exchanged to ensure the peace, and as Min-Ho's third son, Seung-Yun was chosen. The life of a hostage is never dull, of course. Seung-Yun was dropped in the deep end when his affair with Kaneuji's niece caught the eye of Kitsuki Saeki, a local maistrate. Saeki wasted no time in dragging the inexperienced Unicorn into his power plays with some pinpoint blackmail. Still, Seung-Yun learned fast and over the last two years has won himself a place in Kaneuji's small court. What do you hope to find in the far north? Freedom. Freedom to make a name for himself again, freedom to ride where he wishes, freedom from the stuffy castle and the insufferable courtiers. And just maybe, freedom from Kitsuki Saeki's plots and games. Fat chance on that. Of course, even in Shiro Kyodai he's not free. He's still a hostage, and that means there's always a Dragon watching over him, making sure he doesn't escape or get killed. That'd be a political disaster, after all. But who cares about that? He is one of the Shinjo Scouts, and before him stretch lands completely unfamiliar to any Rokugani. Hostage or not, this is his chance at immortality! What do you think of the yobanjin? A weird folk, simultaneously his cousins and complete foreigners. Seung-Yun speaks their language, knows some of their customs and even bears a Yobanji name, and still does not understand them. Soulless foreigners they might be, but he wouldn't be a Unicorn if he let that stop him from respecting them. After all, they're the craftiest enemies he has ever encountered on the battlefield. As a bonus, the twenty questions: 1. What clan does your character belong to? Unicorn, the Empire’s new guardians. 2. What family does your character belong to? Shinjo, the rulers of the Unicorn. 3. Is your character a bushi, a shugenja, or a courtier? Bushi. 4. How would others describe your character’s appearance? Young, strong and easy on the eyes. He smiles easily when he feels in control of the situation, glares at people when suspicious and goes deadly serious when under pressure. He’s got a bit of the cocksure Unicorn swagger in his step. 5. What is your character’s primary motivation? Seung-Yun’s a glory hound. He loves adventure, and loves the recognition it brings. 6. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? His big sister, a practiced duelist and a clan magistrate. They bicker and fight constantly when home and vocally dismiss each other’s moral fibre, methods and character to anyone who happens to ask. 7. What is your character’s greatest strength and weakness? Seung-Yun seeks to think outside of the box. He accepts new ideas in stride and throws out approaches that don’t work. His great weakness is the way he refuses to step out of trouble’s way, trusting completely in his ability to navigate through it. 8. What does your character think of bushido? Seung-Yun’s guiding principle has always been Courage, and he takes great pride in it. When others shuffle their feet, he acts with determination, calmly seeking the route to victory no matter the cost. Seung-Yun doesn’t care what others think of his methods, he’s certain his path is righteous. 9. What is your character’s opinion of his clan? Seung-Yun’s loyal to the clan and thinks the rest of the Empire should take a few lessons from them. However, the clan’s current status as the Emperor’s right hand worries him. As the Unicorn have taken over the Lion’s duties, their strength has been stretched thin. 10. Is your character married? Betrothed to a young Ide lady. The war between the Dragon and the Unicorn and Seung-Yun’s subsequent stay in the Dragon lands has put it on hold. Truth be told, Seung-Yun’s quite happy at the situation - the idea of marriage makes him a bit uneasy. 11. Does your character have any prejudices? He used to think the Dragon were a clan of mystics and madmen. Although he now knows that most of the clan is actually pretty normal, he still can’t shake the feeling that under the civilized surface of a Dragon there is a very peculiar person just waiting to pounce. 12. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? While right now he serves Mirumoto Kaneuji, his greatest loyalty is to the Shinjo family. If his father or the family daimyo were to command him, he would not hesitate. 13. What are your character’s favorite and least favorite things? Like many Unicorn, Seung-Yun enjoys the outdoors. He’s grown to enjoy the difficult and rocky Dragon clan lands, and often goes riding or hunting to air his thoughts. He hates sitting through court sessions he has no input on. He hates it even more if someone asks for his input and forces him to waste words on saying nothing. 14. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? After the dreams started, Seung-Yun’s made a habit of praying every evening. Sometimes it works. 15. What about your character’s emotions? Seung-Yun’s quite open with his expressions. He doesn’t hesitate to smile and laugh openly, and any displeasure is certain to furrow his brow. After the past two years in court, he’s starting to get better at concealing his emotions. 16. How would your character handle a subordinate’s improper behavior? Take it in stride, but reprimand the poor fool immediately afterwards. If the transgression is big enough, Seung-Yun will quietly arrange for a new assignment for the subordinate. 17. How would your character’s parents describe him? An ambitious child, determined to prove himself as good as his elder siblings. A willful and clever son. They are quietly proud of him, even if they fear he will bring them shame and honor in equal measure. 18. What is your character’s highest ambition? To write a treatise on strategy comparable to Leadership itself. 19. How religious is your character? Growing up, he wasn’t very religious. The Tao was self-important prattle in his ears and the Fortunes were distant. As an adult, he’s learned to appreciate the Tao a bit more, especially during his stay with the Dragon. Nowadays he even turns to it for guidance in peculiar situations. 20. How will your character die? Head held high, proudly facing his enemies when all hope is lost. Siivola fucked around with this message at Mar 30, 2013 around 20:44 |
| # ? Mar 24, 2013 21:57 |
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I mentioned it to Gorbash, but I'm going to bow out due to job. Good luck, folks.
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| # ? Mar 26, 2013 01:31 |
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I'm Zero Suit Ridley, and this is my favorite Infrastructure thread on the Citadel. Gorbash asked me to post in here to give it like, thumbs up and stuff. Consider this the official seal of Ridleyverse (eugh, hate that term) canon approval. Zero Suit Ridley fucked around with this message at Mar 26, 2013 around 04:11 |
| # ? Mar 26, 2013 04:08 |
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Megumi Yasuki Yasuki Megumi is a kindly old lady who, for whatever unknown reason, has not yet been asked to retire by her daimyo. She likes to push a small cart around filled with sweets or confectionaries that are sold at a low prices, and most people in her area know her for her smile and gentle charm. She volunteered to this position as one of the more experienced Yasuki, knowing that a good eye for the treasury would be needed. Though her Kaiu husband has regretably passed away due to illness, she still raised three strong young boys - a bushi, a sumai wrestler, and another merchant - who still help take after her, and indeed who now have their own families. ...Wait. Let's start again. Megumi Yasuki  To those that actually know her, Yasuki Megumi is a violent, hard drinking, greedy, lecherous, shrewd, pragmatic son of a bitch. She raised a warrior by making him care for her every whim, raised a sumai fighter by constantly challenging him in his own sport, and raised a courtier by undercutting his attempts at commerce. That isn't to say they don't love their mom, just that they also fear her. She's been "one year away from retirement" for several years running. When she volunteered to take the position (surely for only the most honorable reasons) her officials all agreed on the spot. None of them worried for her safety in such a hard land - she's abnormally strong for her age and stature, powerful enough to count as a man twice her size, even if her legs aren't what they used to be. Of course, in truth, Yasuki is here for two and only two reasons, regardless of what officials might say. First, because ignorant barbarians and new trade routes means a grand potential for profit. And second, new fortifications hold the promise of many handsome young Kaiu men to leer at. pre:Yasuki Megumi Yasuki Courtier Age: 68 Insight 158 Honor 2.5 Status 1 Glory 1 Exp 90/90 Earth 3 Stamina 3 Willpower 3 Air 3 Reflexes 3 Awareness 3 Water 3 Strength 3 Perception 3 Fire 2 Agility 3 Intelligence 2 Void 2 Techniques/Masteries The Way of the Carp - No honor lose for using commerce and gain a free raise when doing so. Can make Commerce/Perception against Etiquette/Awareness to learn of an object or service they desire The Way of the Sumai - Gain Large at no cost, +2k0 to control a grapple, +1k1 to grapple damage Etiquette Mastery - +3 Insight Courtier Mastery - +3 Insight Jiujutsu - +1k0 to all unarmed damage, free raise towards initiating a grapple Skills: Rank Trait Emphasis Rolls Commerce 3 Int Appraisal 5k2 Courtier 3 Awa 6k3 Defense 1 Ref 4k3 Engineering 1 Int 3k2 Ettiquette 3 Awa 6k3 Games (Fortunes) 1 Awa 4k3 Intimidation 1 Awa 4k3 Investigation 1 Per 5k2 Jiujitsu 5 Agi 8k3 Sincerity 1 Awa Deceit 4k3 Tea Ceremony 1 Void 3k2 Temptation 1 Awa Bribery 4k3 Advantages Disadvantages Hands of Stone Greedy Large Lechery Lame Failure of Bushido (Honesty) Combat TN-to-be-hit: 20 Initiative: 5k3 Jiu Damage: 3k2 Outfit: Traditional Clothing, Wakizashi, Knife, Calligraphy Set, Traveling Pack, 5 koku Crab. 2. What family does your character belong to? Yasuki. We're the ones that keep the Crab going. 3. Is your character a bushi, a shugenja, or a courtier? Merchant. Well, courtier. 4. How would others describe your character’s appearance? Many years ago they would describe a magnificently beautiful woman. Now, they'd describe her as a cheery, smiling old grandmother. After the alcohol comes out, they lose the cheery. 5. What is your character’s primary motivation? Lots and lots of beautiful koku (and the occasional shirtless worker) 6. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? Her children, though she maintains she knows better then them at just about everything. 7. What is your character’s greatest strength and weakness? Megumi's greatest strengths are her experience in both the courts and as a merchant, her well roundedness in proficiency, and her...well, actual STRENGTH. She has always had a weakness for handsome - and much younger - men, and she shares the classical Yasuki greed. 8. What does your character think of bushido? A good way to live, but we all must make allowances. 9. What is your character’s opinion of his clan? Without the Crab, there is no Empire - there is only the Shadowlands. Of course, without the Crab, there is also no Yasuki. Records prove rather conclusively that the Crane would not have given them the allowances they need. 10. Is your character married? Her husband passed away of illness some years ago, bless his soul. 11. Does your character have any prejudices? Megumi has long had a distaste for the Crane, Yoritomo, and Unicorn, specifically the Daidoji and the Ide, for their attempts to compete with the Yasuki. In current times, the Daidoji have been reduced to but a shell of their former self, but the Yoritomo has risen, leading to the troublesome new "Mantis" as the focus for her irritation. She at least has some measure of respect for the Yoritomo and their willingness to do "un-samurai" activities for the sake of greater profits - not like those idealistic fools in the Ide, or the Daidoji who hide behind the Crane's feathers. 12. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? To herself, to her daimyo, to her clan, to her clan leader, and yes, to her Emperor. In, perhaps, that order. 13. What are your character’s favorite and least favorite things? Her two favorite things are seeing her personal wealth rise and leering. Her least favorite thing remains actually dealing with samurai who are obstinate and don't easily fall for moneylending or gift giving. 14. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? When in kindly obasan mode, she tends to pick at and straighten her hair and carries sweets when things start to get awkward. In less kindly moods, she smokes like a burning village. 15. What about your character’s emotions? Megumi is decent enough at hiding her actual dishonorable behaviors or foulness when in public, appearing as the kindly and somewhat wise old lady. Once she starts drinking, all bets are off. 16. How would your character handle a subordinate’s improper behavior? The most vicious tongue lashing she can give, with a bit of subtle mockery. For truly improper behavior, corporeal punishment. 17. How would your character’s parents describe him? A horrible chip off the old block. Megumi is the daughter of a Hida and a Yasuki, and seems to have taken the best - and worst - of both. 18. What is your character’s highest ambition? Megumi doesn't have any specific end goal. Her ambition is to simply continue amassing wealth and enjoy her alcohol. 19. How religious is your character? No more or less religious then most samurai. She prays to the Fortunes and the kami and for her dead husband on the occasion, but doesn't go out of her way to visit shrines or temples. 20. How will your character die? Laughing. Well, cackling. 21. Why is your character part of this expedition? Officially, because the new fortress requires someone to manage the finances and the Yasuki are always happy to put themselves in the treasury position. Unofficially, because she's bored and smells profits. 22. What did you do to get to IR2? Raised three boys, delivered untold traumas on all of them, increased family fortunes across the Empire. 23. What do you hope to find in the far north? Money, alcohol, men. 24. What do you think of the yobanjin? Stupid barbarians with potentially a lot of valuables and unused resources to exploit. Infrastructure gives profits rise as summer grass The way of the Carp ProfessorCirno fucked around with this message at Mar 29, 2013 around 10:46 |
| # ? Mar 26, 2013 05:20 |
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edit: nm
Halloween Jack fucked around with this message at Mar 31, 2013 around 16:27 |
| # ? Mar 28, 2013 21:25 |
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Extending the deadline by 24 hours! My plans for today changed unexpectedly, so I didn't get to look at them like I'd planned to. I am going to try and read them and ask some additional questions tomorrow, and then make selections Saturday evening.
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| # ? Mar 29, 2013 04:22 |
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Yoritomo Tsuado edit: fixed an error with spells. pre:Yoritomo Tsudao Clan: Mantis School: Yoritomo Shugenja School Rank: 2 Insight Rank: 2 Experence: 90/90 Honor: 4 Glory: 1 Status: 1 Air: 3 Reflexes: 3 Awareness: 3 Earth: 2 Stamina: 3 Willpower: 2 Fire: 3 Agility: 3 Intelligence: 3 Water: 3 Strength: 3 Perception: 3 Void: 2 Initiative: 5k3 Base TN: 20 Skill Rank Trait Sailing 1 Agi Divination 3 Int Meditation 3 Void Knives 2 Agi Athletics 2 Str Calligraphy 1 Int Lore (Theology) 1 Int Spellcraft 3 Int Lore (Gaijin) 2 Int Lore (Spirits) 1 Int Lore (Shugenja) 2 Int Kenjutsu 1 Agi Advantage Points Languages (Yobanjin) 1 Quick Healer 3 Friendly Kami (Air) 5 Disadvantage Points Greedy 3 Touch of the Void 3 Spells: General -Commune -Sense -Summon Air -Tempest of Air -Call Upon the Wind -Yari of Air Fire -Fury of Osano-Wo -Extinguish Water -Rejuvenating Vapors -Sympathetic Energies -Cloak of the Miya -Regrow the Wound Weapon Attack Damage Notes Kama 5k3 3k2 Wakizashi 4k3 5k2 Techniques: Child of the Sea: -Expend 1 spell slot to alter wind in current location by 1 degree. -May also spend a void point to change entire weather weather status by 1 degree. -May expend a total of void/spells equal to school rank each round, range=school rank in miles. Gear: Robes, Wakizashi, Kama, Scroll Satchel, Traveling Pack Traveling Pack Divination Kit (Kawaru Coins) Fan Fishing Pole Set of Dice Chopsticks Tatami Mat Small Folding Stoll Small Hand Mirror Coin Purse Incense Brazier wealth denied when delayed, progress will bring glory! Yoritomo Tsuado is a young woman, one who smiles sweetly and speaks in a light, happy, voice most of the time. She very much looks like one would expect a Yoritomo to look, tall and hardy, but wrapped in fine silks of seafoam green and gold, with the soft skin of one who makes a daily effort to hide the toils of training and work that ravage the body. She drinks, she gambles, she proudly speaks of her family's history and glory to anyone who'd listen, and worst (or, in this case for the first time, best) of all she has no qualms admitting that there are some things the barbarians of the world could teach her. Maybe that's why she was sent on this task, take that youthful naivety and turn it to a practical use rather than filling her dairies and dreams. Of course, that's not the only reason she was sent here. Tsuado, under that carousing and jocular nature, has shown a strong affinity for the mystic ways. Her family always knew she was blessed, in some way, of course. When she was an infant she was thrown overboard a ship during a violent storm. Her parents wept and mourned, knowing this was an event that spelled death for even a mighty sailor. The storm raged on, the ship took heavy damage, but save for the unfortunate infant there were no casualties. Then they saw her, among the debris scattered around, nestled in a broken barrel as if it was her own crib, Tsuado lived! This was seen as nothing short of a sign that she was blessed by the kami that already brought so much to her family, the kami of winds and water, of storms and lightning. Since then she was always told that greatness was expected from her, and young Tsuado worked hard to live up to that. She took to her studies well, pouring over scrolls and tomes, memorizing rituals and rites, and studying the history of other greats in her family. The Mantis spirit was strong in her, she was unwilling to rest on her family name or one divine boon in her early years, every day she pushed herself harder to become a master of the spiritual world, to show that the faith her family had in her wasn't misplaced. There was more to it than that, though. The Yoritomo knew the winds were changing, and for once in their history, they could position their sails to catch them, rather than fight against them. The Scorpion were making a move, and while they did speak the right words of a greater cause and divine justice and all that, a scorpion is a scorpion, even when being noble, and they knew there were two sides that would result in this war, those who allied with the coup, and those who moved too slow only to be crushed. So the ships took sail, the 'minor clan' stood with the coup, and in exchange they were given the glory they always wanted. Still, just as before, a scorpion will always be a scorpion. The Mantis earned their reward, but they need to be seen as more than the lapdogs of the emperor, as more than common pirates to be hired whenever underhanded deeds must be done. Their wealth means nothing if their peers think it's stained in blood and shame. Tsuado had more than her own glory to think of, she feels the weight of her entire clan on her back every step she takes. The Yoritomo are the true Mantis, the glory of the Mantis is theirs, but so is the burden. The other family grumble and grouse about the honor they got in joining the Yoritomo, the jealous losers of the war whisper rumors, she must bring all these lost ships into formation or the entire fleet will be lost. Don't misunderstand, though. Tsuado has no real ill will to any of her new peers, she just simply cannot understand why the Moshi and Kitsune seem so reluctant. Don't they understand? Can't they see the beautiful halls of the Yoritomo? Can't they see the wealth that awaits them in this new alliance? No more begging for scraps at the great courts, no more clawing their way through the mud for even the most basic acknowledgement, they had an emperor that finally saw their potential and were poised to exploit that! She'll just have to show them. When she sails home with a ship loaded with yobanjin treasures and tales of the barbarians from a first hand view, hailed as one of the great minds behind the northern expedition, then they'll see the kind of glory and greatness that awaits them with the Mantis under Yoritomo guidance. Besides, what's not to look forward to? The yobanjin are so...interesting! Imagine, living in such a harsh part of the land, with such little advancement, they must have something to teach the empire. Tsuado's own home lands aren't exactly known for their ease to live in, sure islands and mountains are quite different, but the principle is the same, carve out your own life in a harsh environment and prove your strength to all who doubt you. Maybe she sees a lot of her family's roots in them, and maybe under all the bluster and talk of riches she wants to be the one to reach a hand out to the 'savages' just as her own family was given a chance to show their own merits. The lands of the north are savage, brutal, and alien, but they are also possibly a source of great wealth and power. Of course, all is done in the name of the emperor, but everyone knows that those who lead the effort will bring glory and fame to their family as well. Tsuado is a loyal servant of the emperor, her father and mother both fought for him while she was still young; but she was shaped more by the tales of great Yoritomo told at her grandfather's knee. She is a Mantis first, and always will be. She goes to the north to tame the wild lands for the empire, to learn the ways of the strange barbarians first hand, but mainly she goes to show the empire and every backbiting bitter 'clan mate' she now has that the Yoritomo will always lead the way no matter how strong the storm. Tatum Girlparts fucked around with this message at Mar 29, 2013 around 10:19 |
| # ? Mar 29, 2013 05:27 |
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Chinmoku To the north, I go A fortress is to be built Walls of stone and wood If it lacks faith, it will fall Heathens will convert, or else  Chinmoku never knew his parents. He was born at an unfortunate time, a famine had struck and his parents could not afford to spare the food to feed one more mouth. So they did the compassionate thing, trekking a day's journey away from their farm they left the newborn babe at the gates of the remote monastery that lay up a nearby mountain. This monastery (known as Sanda-Basho) was one of the few owned by the Shinmaki Order, a rather eccentric order that focused upon reading of the Diamond Sutra, a rather strange document that holds paradoxical ideas and has strange concepts of Shinsei and the Thunders. The monks gave Chinmoku his name and sought to raise him as much they could, seeing his arrival as a portent. Swiftly as he grew, he became more and more versed in the ways of the Tao of Shinsei and of the Diamond Sutra. As he grew, his understanding of these things caused a burning curiosity to form itself in him. The Diamond Sutra spoke of how one's own preconceptions would blind you to true understanding, which Chinmoku took to mean that perspective was the key to Enlightenment, that seeking to understand how others think would prove ultimately useful to true understanding. Having shown some fighting ability, having dealt with threats to the monastery such as a group of bandits who sort to extort the monks, also a mad tattooed monk who came from further north. These events showed to the other monks that Chinmoku was capable of defending himself, should it be necessary. The years passed, and eventually the expedition was declared - Tiruzen, hearing of this managed to get Chinmoku placed as a missionary along for the expedition - out of Chinmoku's wishes to expand his horizons, and possibly to distance his radical philosophy from the more 'orthodox' monks of the monastery. Relishing this opportunity, Chinmoku took some precautions both material and scholastic. Expecting to encounter the Yobanjin as well as the more traditionalist samurai, Chinmoku made a concerted effeort to read up on the tenets of bushido more closely, as well as what is known of the Yobanjin - for he intended to bring the light of the Tao of Shinsei unto them, and it would not do to do so from a point of ignorance. From a more material stand-point, Chinmoku managed to acquire sohei armour from the monastery - expecting the road ahead to be dangerous, as well as with a stipend he made sure he was equipped for what could be a very survivalistic occasion. Also he bought a lucky cricket, for luck, obviously. At least that's what the traveling salesman told him. pre:Chinmoku Order: Shinmaki Order Devotion: Shintao School Rank: 2 Insight Rank: 2 Insight: 158 Experience: 90/90 Honor: 6.5 Glory: 0 Infamy: 0 Status: 1 Taint: 0 Air: 3 Earth: 2 Ref: 3 Awa: 3 Sta: 2 Wil: 2 Fire: 2 Water: 2 Agi: 3 Int: 2 Str: 3 Per: 2 Void: 4 Initiative: 5k3 Armor TN: 20 (+3 in armour) Reduction: 0 (1 in armour) Skills: Skills: Rank Trait Emphasis Rolls Divination 1 Int 5k2 Jiujutsu 3 Agi 6k3 Lore: Theology 2 Int Diamond Sutra 4k2 Meditation 2 Voi 7k4 Defense 1 Ref 4k3 Staves 3 Agi 6k3 Artisan: Poetry 1 Awa 4k3 Athletics 1 Str 4k3 Calligraphy 1 Int 3k2 Craft: Cooking 1 Int 3k2 Courtier 1 Awa 4k3 Etiquette 1 Awa 4k3 Games: Go 1 Int 3k2 Hunting 1 Per 3k2 Investigation 1 Per 3k2 Lore: Bushido 1 Int 3k2 Lore: Yobanjin 1 Int 3k2 Lore: Nature 1 Int 3k2 Perform: Oratory 1 Awa 4k3 Sincerity 1 Awa 4k3 Tea Ceremony 2 Voi 6k4 Techniques/Masteries The Diamond Sutra - The monks who study the Diamond Sutra are known for their strange and bizarre behavior and esoteric practices, but also for their extreme spiritual purity and lack of respect for conventional etiquette. You start play with the Disturbing Countenance Disadvantage for no points, but gain a +1k0 bonus to Meditation rolls, Fear rolls, and to all Social Skill Rolls involving members of the heimin and hinin castes. You do not lose Honor for touching dead fl esh (but lose Glory or gain Infamy normally). Jiujutsu 3: The damage of all unarmed attacks is increased by +1k0. Staves 3: Opponents' armour bonuses are no longer doubled against staff attacks. Advantages: Hands of Stone Enlightened Language (Yobanjin Dialect) Disadvantages: Disturbing Countenance (free) Ascetic Fascination (Theology) Kiho: Eight Directions Awareness Touch the Void Dragon To the Last Breath Strike through the Wind Chi Protection Ride the Water Dragon Stain Upon the Soul Inventory Bo, coarse and plain Travelling Clothing, a Scroll Satchel with passages from the Tao, as well as passages from the Diamond sutra, 5 bu, 1 zeni (initially 25 koku) Ashigaru Armour (5 koku) Backpack (3 zeni) Blanket (1 bu) Bottle, empty x 3 (1 zeni each) Books and Scrolls (10 bu) Bucket (1 zeni) Candle x 10 (1 bu each) Chopsticks (1 zeni) Coin Purse (3 zeni) Divination Kit (sticks) (1 bu) Flint and Steel (1 zeni) Games, Traveling (1 bu) Grapple Hook (1 bu) Lanterns (metal) (4 bu) Lantern Oil x 3 (9 zeni) Lucky Cricket (4 bu) Paper (10 sheets) (2 bu) Parchment & Charcoal (20 sheets) (6 zeni) Iron Pot (15 zeni) Rope (50 feet) (250 zeni) Sake Cup (1 bu) Shovel (5 zeni) Small Knife (5 zeni) Spices (one bottle) (1 bu) Tatami Mat (2 zeni) Tea Set (1 koku) Tent, Small (1 koku) Traveling Rations (7 days of 3 meals) (105 zeni) Umbrella (2 bu) Writing Box (1 bu) Makeup Kit (1 koku) Armor Ashigaru Armour: +3 Armour TN; Reduction 1; Price 5 koku Weapons Unarmed (DR 1k2): 4k2 Bo (Large, DR 1k2): 4k2 1. What clan does your character belong to? None, he is a monk of the Brotherhood of Shinsei. 2. What family does your character belong to? None (that he knows of), but of the Brotherhood he is of the Shinmaki Order. 3. Is your character a bushi, a shugenja, or a courtier? Monk 4. How would others describe your character’s appearance? A strange-looking monk whose age is hard to determine, Chinkmoku is tall, with sinewy musculature leaving him rather thin. He dresses as you may expect any monk to do, his outfit is coarse and plain, well-worn and perfect for travelling, a conical straw hat is worn. The oddness becomes swiftly apparent as his skin has been painted or dusted heavily, or at least his face has. However he seems to radiate an almost palpable aura of calm and centeredness. The fact it seems to remain no matter whose company he is in and no matter the setting causes some to become disquieted. His strange appearance merely adds to this. 5. What is your character’s primary motivation? To see the world, experience it and its people and see how they live their lives and follow their own mantras. From this he hopes to gain perspective on his path. More recently he has been inspired to/tasked to speak of the Tao to the heathen Yobanjin, he also hopes to learn perspective from seeing his world from the outside. 6. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? The abbot in the monastery in which he was raised, Tiruzen. Although not prone to having parental figures, substitute or real, Chinmoku feels eternally grateful for being allowed to experience this, not to mention by default the abbot should be the most enlightened in the monastery, and therefore (by Chinmoku's reasoning) the best. 7. What is your character’s greatest strength and weakness? Chinkmoku's strength is his patience and diligence, his willingess to contemplate things fully and otherwise understand the entire problem - rather than making rash, poor decisions. Similarly however, his weakness is lack of true understanding of others, what their desires or motivations are beyond what is written (such as the Tao of Shinsei or the code of Bushido), and that they are not necessarily as patient as him. 8. What does your character think of bushido? Although Chinmoku understands that people need something to gather strength from, he feels that (in the end) Bushido is ultimately one more burden on the road of life. Not that it should be ignored, pragmatism would stress of its current importance. It is just so much focus is put on the word, and not enough on the spirit of the code and he feels that this focus ultimately leads people astray from what is truly important. At the very moment however, he believes it is the lesser of two evils - and given that he is soon to deal with more and more samurai, he made sure to study it further. 9. What is your character’s opinion of his clan? Chinmoku sees the Shinmaki Order as having the most coherent view of the cosmos. But perhaps not the perfect one, existence can be perceived from all angles (including from beyond Rokugan itself), and fragments or shards of understanding can be found anywhere - by knowing all there is to know (within reason) and appreciating all perspectives, Chinmoku reasons that from this springs truth, and enlightenment. 10. Is your character married? No. Monks are not allowed to marry, and those that were once married are no longer recognised as such. Chinmoku has pondered once or twice what the experience might be like. Ultimately he feels that it would be an unnecessary distraction on his path. Enlightenment is not for everyone, the same can be said of marriage. But then again on the other hand perhaps sharing a life with another would provide a perspective available nowhere else, not that many marriages are out of true love however - so the point is somewhat moot, to him at least. 11. Does your character have any prejudices? Not one to be so extreme as to feel true prejudice against any particular group. He does however feel dismayed about some groups, foreigners for never having the chance to experience the Tao of Shinsei, for instance (one of his reasons for doing this, in fact). Also monks of other orders, which he feels are ultimately taking the wrong path and are going to inevitably end up frustrated and further from enlightenment. Still, they might have a kernel of truth amidst their theologies worth studying, hopefully he might be able to convince them of his views at the same time as studying theirs. Another group he feels a little dismayed for are samurai, who are wrapped up in all those layers which are simultaneously necessary and yet constraining to an alarming degree. Tragic. 12. To whom does your character owe the most loyalty? Again, the abbot of the monastery that he was raised in, Tiruzen is who he the most loyal to. 13. What are your character’s favorite and least favorite things? He likes to be able to sit in peace and quiet and observe the world around him. This need not be in total seclusion. Sometimes he might play Go, he finds its multilayered nature stimulating. He dislikes court settings, finding the whole social mishmash alarming. Also natto, he'll eat it if he has to or in order to be gracious to a host, but he would rather not. 14. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? He sometimes quietly hums to himself a disjointed and meaningless tune. But it is always the same tune. 15. What about your character’s emotions? Mostly controlling his feelings, ultimately Chinmoku tends to feel curiosity (in a general sense, but most around something new, different or foreign) or dismay. But he tends to not let these emotions control him too much, but then again if something were to be a once in a lifetime event... 16. How would your character handle a subordinate’s improper behavior? He would try to remind the subordinate of their purpose and what the aim of this purpose is and how what they did or did not do would be in relation to this. If they repeat, then he might use more forceful methods until they are able to understand the significance. 17. How would your character’s parents describe him? Having never seen him since he was a babe, his parents would not recognise him. Instead they see an imposing but reverant monk who seemed... open, and strangely polite and talkative, at least to them. 18. What is your character’s highest ambition? To bring the Yobanjin people as a whole into the fold of the Tao of Shinsei. 19. How religious is your character? A devout follower of the Tao of Shinsei, Chinmoku's following of such things are marked by his devotion to the Diamond Sutra. Consequently he has notions about the nature of Shinsei and the Thunders that some might find baffling if not outright heresy. 20. How will your character die? Going somewhere or talking to someone in order to learn or teach, and not being careful enough. 21. Why is your character part of this expedition? The Shinmaki Order were aware of this expedition and its need for missionaries. He was volunteered, partly out of his own wishes and partly to give him and his atypical approach to things some space. After all, it might even pay off in the end. 22. What did you do to earn the experience to become IR2? Chinmoku has defended his monastery against threats (due to its seclusion) such as a group of bandits, or a mad monk that had come from the mountains to the north. Furthermore he has done more pro-active things of note, for instance once a sacred site to the order had fallen prey to a hostile spirit, and through perseverence and caution did Chinmoku manage to drive it off by speaking to it extensively. He is still unsure of the spirit left because he convinced it that this was not the way, or to believe in the Tao of Shinsei, or if it couldn't stand any more lecturing. 23. What do you hope to find in the far north? Unique perspectives. Few travel this far north and Chinmoku hopes that a few more pieces of the puzzle might be found out here. 24. What do you think of the yobanjin? The Yobanjin denied the Kami once in times long forgotten. They had not even the chance back then of knowing the Tao of Shinsei. It is ultimately not their fault, Chinmoku feels, sure denying the Kami is a pretty grievous thing but such a long time has passed since then they will surely be more open-minded this time. He is willing to give them a chance (in fact, several chances) in order for them to prove their ability to know the Tao of Shinsei. In the back of his mind, Chinmoku fears that they cannot know the Tao, and that all of this is a waste. Attilla fucked around with this message at Mar 31, 2013 around 16:13 |
| # ? Mar 29, 2013 16:49 |
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At the Boundary Of Empire, Beginnings Of Infrastructure At the Boundary of Self The Dragon Blazes the Trail Mirumoto Tadao  Mirumoto Taoist Swordsman IR 2 (Mirumoto Mountaineer Path) Honor: 5.5 Glory 1 Status 1 XP: 90 (Unused: 0) Insight: 120 (Traits) + 33 (Skills) = 153 Air 2 Earth 3 Fire 2 (Agi 3) Water 2 Void 3 Katana -- Attack: 7k3 Damage: 7k2 Yari/Nage-Yari -- Attack 6k3 (+2), Damage 4k2/3k2 ATN: 15 (No Armor), 20 (Defense Stance); Reduction: 4 Wounds: 15 (+0), 21 (+0), 27 (+2), 33 (+7), 39 (+12), 45 (+17), 51 (+37*), 57 (Dead) School Skills (R&K includes Prodigy): Athletics 3 (Agi?) = 7k3 Defense 3 (Ref) = 6k2 Iaijutsu 3 (Ref/Void) = 6k2/7k3 Kenjutsu 3 (Agi) = 7k3 (Katana) Lore: Nature 3 (Int) = 7k3 Lore: Theology 1 (Int) = 4k2 Meditation 3 (Void) = 7k3 Other Skills: Hunting 3 (Per) = 5k2 Investigation 3 (Per) = 5k2 Lore: Yobanjin 2 (Int) = 4k2 Medicine 3 (Int) = 5k2 Spears 3 (Agi) = 6k3 Advantages: Absolute Direction Fukurokujin's Blessing: +1k1 to Lore: Nature Language: Yobanjin Prodigy: +1k0 School Skills Strength of the Earth: -3 TN Penalty for Wounds Disadvantages: Consumed by Insight: TN20 Willpower or become lost in reverie when using Meditation Gullible: Opponents get +1k1 on Sincerity (Deceit) Idealistic Techniques and Mastery Abilities: Aligned with the Elements: When wielding a sword and wearing no armor Reduction = IR+2; +1k0 damage with sword Heart of the Mountain: If Ambushed (i.e. fail Investgation (Notice)/Perception), can roll Athletics/Agility to avoid being surprised; +Athletics/2 (round up) to Ranged Attacks Athletics 3: No penalty for Moderate Terrain, -1 Water for Difficult Terrain Defense 3: Retain previous Defense/Reflexes roll in Full Defense Iaijutsu 3: Ready katana as free action Investigation 3: Second attempt at Investigation at no penalty Kenjutsu 3: +1k0 Damage with sword Meditation 3: Regain 2 Void with successful roll Spears 3: Ignore 3 points of Reduction in first round Possessions: Daisho, Tanto, Sturdy Clothing, Traveling Pack Yari, Nage-yari x 3, Tao Scrolls, Backpack, Medicine Kit, 36 koku? Traveling Pack: Grappling Hook, Blanket, Rope, Rations, Whetstone, Snowshoes, Bottle of Water, Chopsticks, Straw Cloak, Straw Hat XP Spent: Abilities [24] + Skills [57] + Advantages [19] - Disadvantages [10] = 90 **** What Clan does you character belong to? The Clan of Insight: the Dragon What Family does your character belong to? Mirumoto Is your character a bushi, shugenja, our courtier? He is a student of the World, and of his fellow Man. But if you wish to constrain him to merely his physical attributes, because of his focus on the Way of the Sword as the Path to Enlightenment, you could perhaps call him Bushi How would others describe your character's appearance? He is a child of the Earth, touched by Sun and sculpted by Wind. What is your character's primary motivation? He seeks to perfect himself through pursuit of the wisdom that experiencing the world can provide. Who is the person your character trusts most in the world? He trusts his teachers: anyone or anything from whom he might learn. What are your character's greatest strength and weakness? He possesses eyes to see and ears to hear from the world. However, he is often tempted to become lost when communing with Nature. What does your character think of Bushido? As long as man is still on the Path, he will need signposts to point him in the correct direction. Bushido is the best signpost that man has yet made for himself. What is your character's opinion of his Clan? As a whole, the Dragon are the collection of Men who have come closest to attaining true Insight. Is your character married? While he is not prevented from marrying, such concerns would distract him from perfecting himself. Does your character have any prejudices? Those who would entice him off the path with base material temptations should be avoided, if possible. To whome does your character owe the most loyalty? To himself, to forge his soul into a state corresponding to its highest potential, and to his fellow Man, if he can aid any of them along their own Path. What are your character's favorite and least favorite things? His favorite thing is experiencing Nature. His least favorites are those who are unreflective about themselves and their place within Nature. Does your character have any recurring mannerisms? I am very sorry, what were you saying? I was lost in contemplation just then. What about your character's emotions? He observes them for they are part of natural state of Man. But he must also transcend such feelings to truly reach his highest State. How would your character handle a subordinate's improper behavior? He would ensure that such an individual has ample time to ponder how to restore himself to his true Path. How would your character's parents describe him? He is a good Dragon, pursuing his Path through the world but striving to remain uncorrupted by it. What is your character's highest ambition? To attain to his True Self through subduing his body and connecting with the Soul of the world in all its varied expressions. How religious is your character? To ask that question is to fail to grasp that religion is not a thing that one does, as a ritual. Every man practices Religion throughout his every waking moment; instead the question to ask is: Is he correctly grasping the nature of self in relation to the universe, or is he wandering down a False Path? How will your character die? He is unconcerned with such questions, for death is but another facet of Nature, and another step on Man's path to True Knowledge of himself. Why is your character part of this expedition? Because of his unique skills, he was assigned to serve as the scout and protector of the civilizing forces of the Emperor; fortunately, this will allow him to experience an even greater variety of Nature. What did you do to get to IR2? As he studied the Way of the Sword in the company of the ise zumi, he found that his blade was often needed to protect weary travelers and isolated monks from the depradations of bandits, barbarians, and other creatures. A short time ago, he was plucked from his life among the Togashi and trained even more extensively for his present service by the Mirumoto Mountaineers. What does your character hope to find in the far north? The Path to knowing his True Self What do you think of the yobanjin? They are men who are said to be more primitive than Rokugani--perhaps that means they have clearer insight into Man's natural connection with the rest of the universe? TychoBrahesNose fucked around with this message at Mar 30, 2013 around 15:53 |
| # ? Mar 30, 2013 15:48 |
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About 5 hours and 25 minutes to go.
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| # ? Mar 30, 2013 18:34 |
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The Cherry blossoms blanket the grass in pinkness The stream thaws and flows But all I smell is old poo poo. I should have dug a cistern pre:Mirumoto Tenshu Mirumoto Bushi Insight 157 Honor 4.5 Status 1 Glory 1 Exp 89/90 Earth 3 Stamina 3 Willpower 3 Air 2 Reflexes 2 Awareness 2 Water 2 Strength 2 Perception 2 Fire 3 Agility 3 Intelligence 3 Void 2 Techniques/Masteries The Way of the Dragon No penalty for dual wielding, add school rank to Armor TN. Raise or lower TN of a spell by 5 Calm in the Midst of Thunder When in Center Stance, gain a bonus to Iajitsu rolls equal to kenjutsu rank Kenjutsu +1k0 to all Sword Damage Defense Keep Defense rolls for subsequent rounds Iajitsu Readying a Katana is a free action Meditation Meditate to restore 2 void points Athletics No impediments on moderate terrain Stealth Simple move actions allow 10 foot distance Skills: Rank Emphasis Hunting 3 Lore (Shugenja) 3 Kenjutsu 3 Katana Defense 3 Iajutsu 3 Meditation 3 Lore (Theology) 1 Athletics 3 Lore (Dragon) 2 Stealth 3 Intimidation 1 Sincerity 3 Artisan (Poetry) 2 Battle 1 Lore (Gaijin Culture) 2 Lore (Nature) 1 Advantages Disadvantages Bishamon's Blessing Disbeliever Languages (Yobanjin Dialects) Way of the Land (Dragon/Yobanjin border) Combat TN-to-be-hit: 20 Initiative: 4k2 Outfit: Light Armor, Sturdy Clothing, Daisho, No-Dachi, Travelling Pack, 5 koku Mirumoto Tenshu is one of these sentries. Serving along the border for years now, he's come to know, hate, and respect the Yobanjin. The constant fighting and drilling has kept him sharp, and made him an above average swordsman. It's also given him an understanding of the language and culture of the Yobanjin, and he's been picked by his superiors to be an advisor and translator, because there's no doubt that the construction party will be forced to deal with the northern barbarians.
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| # ? Mar 30, 2013 23:17 |
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And recruitment over! Final picks and game thread to come by tomorrow. I may post the picks first tonight and the game thread tomorrow, depending on how hard the choices turn out to be.
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| # ? Mar 31, 2013 00:06 |
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Results Yoritomo Yuko (Mors Rattus) Kaiu Kiriyama (team overhead smash) Matsu Ren (NinjaPete) Shinjo Seong-Yun (Siivola) Megumi Yasuki (ProfessorCirno) Chinmoku (Attila) Making selections was incredibly difficult, there a lot of amazing apps for this game. Thank you to everyone who showed interest. I know there are more Scorpion Emperor games coming out so keep an eye out for them. The game thread will be going up later this evening.
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| # ? Mar 31, 2013 15:38 |
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Game thread is going to go up tomorrow actually, got tied up with some things today.
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| # ? Apr 1, 2013 01:39 |
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| # ? May 18, 2013 08:32 |
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Thread is up! Sorry for the delays. Infrastructure Game Thread
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| # ? Apr 2, 2013 00:24 |
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