Age of Succession, 7217 IC
Month of The Cherry Blossom
First Day of Spring
About half-past the sixth hour of the morning
Chilly but sunny with clearing skies
Morimoto finally reaches the outer walls of the imperial estate. The closer he traveled to the heart of the city, the more its citizens seemed to be in a chaotic clamor. Most people actually seem to be overwhelmed with disbelief, but other groups (fewer in number, yet ten times as loud) seem to be stirring up unrest and panic in a variety of ways. Some seem to be religious or political rabble-rousers who are visibly shaken by yesterday's tragic events. Some are even spreading stories of the Jade Regent returning to power. Others believe that Minkai itself will soon fall since the line of emperors is now spent with the death of the last Amatatsu.
The gates leading into the imperial grounds are closed off as tightly as they would be during a siege. Kondo's imperial guardsmen stationed outside the gates and along the walls. They are ready for anything, but try to project the appearance of being assembled in a display honoring the empress' passing. They stand as still as statues, but are not arrayed in ceremonial armor & weapons. In front of them, closer to the chaos in the streets, are Osawa's city guard. The governor employs them as a police force of sorts. They are much more active, trying to keep some semblance of order so close to the palace.
Shortly after his arrival, Morimoto sees a group of horsemen trying to wind their way through the throngs. It is more of the provincial police along with Osawa Shunjei himself. The governor is also surrounded by several members of his own household guard. He is doing his best to part the masses of people so he may reach the gates. He tries to exude an air of quiet yet commanding authority, but it is not difficult to see that he is a tad overwhelmed by the whole situation.
He and his entourage are about to ride right past Morimoto...
Moto sees his ticket inside the gates, if he can make a big impression...
ReplyDeleteOOC: This being a critical moment, I am reluctant to roll the dice. Ideally, Moto will use his small frame and low profile to weave ahead of the police entourage, giving him enough time to Take 20 for the following action:
BIC: Morimoto, steels himself against the throb of the crowd. He waits for the mounted group to approach, and works to orient himself in the street directly in view of the governor. Then, with a full, high voice, he sings a fascinating song, demanding total attention from the crowd and guard alike.
"New year dawns, red sun, red dress
People cry in the streets for the fallen Empress.
Who carries her banner, heart filled with woe
Be led toward the gates, guarded for show.
Now let them come, and feel the morning chill
Gods tinker, the mighty flaunt their will.
Do you carry the flag, Osawa-sama?
Fair warning, you will need more than threats."
At the end of this song, hoping that the immediate area is under the bard's spell, Moto, directs to Osawa: "Governor, I am the Bard of the Court. Please allow me to lend my voice to your cause."
OOC: If I can take 20, then 20+10 = 30. Oh, nevermind, I just rolled a natural 20.
Osawa notices Morimoto and raises his hand, which signals the other riders to stop. He leans down slightly in the saddle and shouts over the racket, "Morimoto, is it not? Under the circumstances, I'd be tempted to tell you that your courtly duties are no longer required... however, if you can help to quell this mob and get my men and I through the gate, perhaps you may still be of service to the empire."
ReplyDeleteMorimoto is being more violently jostled about every moment he stays here. He does notice that nearby there are huge statues of golden carp flanking the lane to either side of the gateway. Each is mounted on a large carved stone pedestal. If he could get atop one of them, he'd be out of the throng and a good four-and-a-half feet above the ground.
OOC: I probably need a climb roll: 14+4 = 18.
ReplyDeleteOk, that's better. Now Moto should be able to command attention properly. Take two with the Facinate song.
OOC: In lieu of Fascinate, which I seriously overestimated the power of, I will just take my roll as a straight performance check. I'm hoping that Moto's song will still have the desired effect, which is simply to organize people's attention toward him and away from rabble-rousers and ne'er-do-well's, allowing the Governor's entourage unmolested passage to the gate. If Moto seems to be achieving the desired effect, he will jump onto the lead horse, perching atop the shoulders of the mounted guard.
ReplyDeleteAcrobatics roll: 19 + 7 = 26. I seem to be on a Brian-esque run of good rolls. What else do I need to do?
Morimoto and the governor's entourage ride through the gate into the imperial city -- truly a metropolis in its own right -- and leave the throng of chaos behind. More of Kondo's heavily armored guardsmen line the lane that leads further into the empress' estate. There are gardens, koi pools (kept a reasonable temperature by underground geothermic activity), statues, and magnificent pagodas rising into the sky to every side. Morimoto has been down this lane hundreds of times, perhaps, but he still is dwarfed by it all.
ReplyDeleteThe horseman that he has shared a steed with brings his animal to a stop. "If you don't mind?" He looks at Osawa intensely and says, "I beg your forgiveness, my lord, but might I inquire why this clown is here, especially at a critical time such as this?"
Osawa, now a bit more at ease with the mob safely on the opposite side of a heavy set of double doors, chuckles slightly and replies to the horseman, "you cannot deny, Daisuke, that it was rather fortunate he showed up when he did, considering the disposition of the crowd out there. However, you raise a reasonable point," at this the governor turns his attention to Morimoto. "what exactly is your purpose here, my young friend? You were for years a favorite of our Heavenly Sovereign, but I fail to see how your songs and poetry will serve the empire at this desperate hour."
OOC: For future reference -- and this is addressed to all the players -- the order of how things will work is as follows...
1. Action is stated.
2. The necessary rolls for the stated action are made.
3. The DM (me) determines the results.
4. If any other rolls are needed, I will request them.
At no point will a player make a roll, then decide what that die roll applies to. State action, roll for that action. That's how we do things. If more than one roll is needed, they are rolled in the order that they were stated.
Morimoto hops off the mounted guardsman and bows respectfully. Though young and brash, he understands the stress these soldiers are under in this moment. His purpose was never to offend, merely to gain a better vantage point.
ReplyDelete"Governor, my loyalty is foremost with Minkai. My purpose here is straightforward, and you have already seen the usefulness of my talent. The people are restless, and there are elements on every street corner who would stir the weak-minded and emotionally compromised into a frenzy. What Minkai needs more than anything at this moment is a consistent voice; someone who can quell the fears of the people whilst the powers that be determine the course of succession. Given the line is ended, that will no doubt be a complicated political matter, but no reasonable person wants unrest to turn into violence or worse - a faction war with all sides tearing Minkai into pieces.
"I don't know the answers. I don't know how this will end or who will ultimately take the throne. I don't even know who killed the Empress or why. All I know is that I love Minkai, and I do not wish to see it further afflicted for this great loss. My voice is a tool, like Daisuke's lance. Do not look upon me as a fool, but rather as the mouthpiece for the solitary calming message that will permit our lords the time they need to settle the future of Minkai without the need of mustering arms. As I did for the Empress, I serve you and all those who seek a peaceful future for the empire.
“Permit me to accompany you when you convene with Kondo-sama. I will carry your message to the people of Minkai, for it is not only my voice that is needed in this moment of crisis, but also my connections to tradesmen throughout the city. Where one man may plant a single tree, a network of similarly skilled men can plant a forest.”
At the conclusion of his remarks, Morimoto bows to Osawa.
Osawa ponders Morimoto's words carefully, and then looks to each of the members of his entourage who look on silently. He motions to one of the guardsmen to help him down from his horse, and once on solid ground, he approaches the minstrel. In a low voice, he says, "your words carry great power, indeed, young one. I have no doubt that they might be used to move the hearts of others as they have moved mine. However, the one who bears a message is often just as important as the message itself. Kasai -- all of Minkai, in truth -- is now a serpent without a head. This terrible news has spread throughout the city in a matter of hours. Before the day is done, I do not doubt that Shogokabe will have heard of this. Tomorrow Wanshi, then Oda. While the provinces close to the capital have learned to love the empress, I fear what will occur when word reaches the Ronin of Osogen. Let alone Chu Ye and Shogun Tsuneni from across the Xidao Gulf -- I am not yet convinced he did not have some role to play in this tragedy.
ReplyDelete"My point is this, Morimoto... we need your words, but we need one to carry them who can rally the folk of Kasai and the southern provinces to our banner of peace, unity, and order. At least until another worthy ruler can sit upon the Jade Throne. That is another matter altogether. We need someone that the warrior families can follow and the nobles can respect. Someone to give the people courage. But I fear that Takami Hayato's funeral marked the end of the age of heroes. I know of no one who can save us from this freefall into chaos."
After a few moments, Osawa can see the effect his words have had on the young minstrel. "Forgive me, my young friend... our Heavenly Majesty often said I was a bit prone to overstate things, but I will not insult you by trying to make this hour seem less desperate than it truly is. But, I do believe that you can make a difference with your talents. But the burden need not be yours alone.
ReplyDelete"You must know the city quite well, do you not? If you could find some like-minded individuals such as yourself -- folk that you trust and love Kasai enough to not see her fall into chaos -- perhaps you can enlist their aid and spread a message of hope. If the people knew that their governor has not abandoned them and is doing all he can to maintain order during this difficult time, it may help to quell the panic. The Tokugawa are the most powerful warrior clan, and they are very much still with us. With the empress gone, surely the priesthood of Shizuru will be our divine inspiration to guide Minkai through this tragedy. I'm sure you could phrase it all much more eloquently than I, but such a message would be a much-needed balm on this wounded city.
"It would also be a great comfort to the people to know that the monsters responsible for this heinous crime will face justice... sadly, my men are already stretched thin. I can spare no one at the moment.
"Can you help us, Morimoto," Osawa says as he places his hand on the musician's shoulder.
Morimoto straightens. "The Empress will be avenged, my lord. Just this night, I met a group of warriors who would still carry the banner for Minkai. I believe they may be the heroes you seek. I will seek them out - I know they have moved to the Temple, and together we will root out the perpetrators of this tragedy. I pledge to carry the banner of the Empress wherever we travel, and to never betray the virtues for which she stood.
ReplyDelete"Governor, I have but few possessions for such a campaign. I need little in my trade, but would you permit me to visit the armory and select a few items in preparation for this task?" I would also ask to be allowed entrance into the Palace and my personal quarters to gather my instruments, should there be new restrictions. One of your guards could accompany me, if I should not be allowed passage unsupervised in light of the night's events. I would also ask to carry your seal, as a sign of Minkai's official support, so as to leave no doubt of our loyalty or motive when we engage the neighboring clans."
Morimoto bows low. "Thank you, my lord. I pray that with your leadership, and with the efforts of those of us who wish firstly for peace in Minkai, that we will see the light of new days bless this land."
Osawa nods, "indeed, there are many restrictions that we have been forced to implement. Those loyal to Minkai are doing all they can to stop short of martial law. But hopefully, if you are successful, such measures will not be necessary."
ReplyDeleteHe motions to Daisuke. "Feel free to visit your chambers. Daisuke will accompany you to the armory while I have a letter written up for you. Use it with care. Though it will contain my seal, it will not give you limitless power. It simply will state you are a representative of my office. Understood?"
When Daisuke begins to protest his new duty, the governor interupts him. "You are best suited for this task... you trust Morimoto the least." Then Osawa turns once again to the minstrel. "Be quick. Every passing hour the city risks boiling over. There is much we all must do. My Shizuru shine upon your endeavors!"
Later, Daisuke waits silently & impatiently just outside of Morimoto's spartan quarters. When they have finished there, they move onto the armory. Even with Daisuke's help, it is nearly impossible to gain access to the place. Everyone is extremely vigilant. An understandable byproduct of recent events. With the horseman closely accompanying him, Morimoto peruses the vast stores of weapons, armor & ammunition.
OOC: Please be very specific with what you hope to accomplish during your errand. I'll be the final arbiter of what you can actually find and leave with.
Speaking of which, add "Osawa's Letter" to your possessions list.
Also, give me a Perception check, please.
OOC: Perception = 17 + 5 = 22. The roll continues!
ReplyDeleteOk, I know you want to reunite Morimoto with the rest of the party quickly but I was hoping to roleplay the Palace a little more. A map of the interior layout would be helpful. I believe someone from the Empress' inner circle was involved, and there should be some incriminating evidence in the palace if that is the case. At this point, I guess it doesn't pay to burn what good will I have acquired from the Governor, so no snooping. Moto will take some mental notes on where guards are stationed. If resources are as dire as the Governor says then I cannot imagine the interior of the Palace is well-guarded. It may even be deserted. That would be good detail to know.
From his personal quarters, Moto retrieves all his gear, taking time to dress into his armor, then briefly meditate at the small shrine, lighting incense for the Empress.
As for the Armory, Moto is looking for small weapons of high quality. I rolled a natural 20 for Appraise. If Moto sees anything that looks like magical or masterwork quality, and it can be comfortably carried, he takes it. Specifically, he is looking for short swords and daggers, two of each, another 10 Kestros darts, and also a short bow and quiver of arrows - 20 should do it. If Daisuke asks what he needs all this stuff for, Moto responds that while the heroes he fought beside tonight are themselves well-armed, more are needed, and they will need to be prepared. Surely, these smaller weapons will not be missed by the Royal Guard, with their magnificent lances and shields. In truth, Moto expects to need to be able to peddle the weapons for currency or contingencies which he has not the intelligence or foresight to predict. He will also need another pack to carry everything in. A saddle bag would be ideal, should the Samurai allow him to further burden his beast. And just because I find them incredibly useful, a bag of caltrops would complete the list. If there is a mess kit or other adventurer supplies, I would take that as well.
Before departing, Moto tries to strike up a conversation with the guard.
"She was my family, and I have no other. Everything I had in this world was lost in that cemetery last night, and I will not let that go. Whatever you think of me, Daisuke-san, I have only ever lived for the Empress and for Minkai. We are alike in that regard, no? May your family be safe."
During Morimoto's time in the palace, he notices that there are conspicuously few guards about. The temple is actually much more well-defended (and understandably so).
ReplyDeleteAfter visiting his quarters and the shrine to Shizuru, he makes his way to the armory. He can find no kestros darts, but he does find two short swords, two daggers, a short bow, and a quiverfull of arrows. While searching for a bag of caltrops, he sees a dusty old ironbound box pushed to the back of a shelf behind a weapon rack. It is not large, so Morimoto wonders what it could contain.
Daisuke is reluctant to speak, even when engaged in a friendly manner. When the minstrel is finally prepared to leave, the warrior says rather matter-of-factly, "we have all been affected by her Divine Majesty's death... but if anyone treats you differently, it is because you were found on the streets and managed somehow to parlay that into a very enviable position in the empress' household. You cannot expect that to sit well with those born into prestigious warrior families who have sworn their lives to the service of Minkai. I only pray that the faith Governor Osawa has placed in you is not a colossal mistake.
"Are you ready to depart?"
OOC: Like any DM, I prefer having the party all together, but I have no objection to splitting up if it it is for good reason and actually adds to the story.
Caltrops and common adventuring gear cannot be found here. Only standard issue Japanese-themed weaponry & armor can be found here... there's nothing unusual or exotic (other than the box). On the bright side, it is all well-made and in excellent repair.
I'll allow you to have kestros darts, if you wish, even though they would not have been used in Minkai for centuries (if at all). But, since you're a kitsune from realms cut off from most of civilization, your people might have held onto certain weapons unheard of in other places. They're still exotic weapons, however.
"I just remembered one more thing," explains Morimoto. The bard returns to the dusty box. What an odd thing to see set aside in the Palace Armory... If it is not locked, he opens it.
ReplyDeleteWhatever the contents, when Morimoto returns to Daisuke he says, "The Governor is honorable, and his faith is not misplaced. But in this time of uncertainty, what risk is it to give faith? Should we fail, the Empire is no worse off, but should we succeed, we will contribute to what will surely be a hard-fought peace. We are allies, you and I. Our past is now meaningless. All that matters is that we share a common hope for the future.
"For what it's worth, I suffered at the hand of the Regent. The Empress took pity on me, and I swore an oath to stay by her side. I have parlayed nothing that was not earned through my own spilled blood. What noble can say the same? But it does not matter. In a sense, those of us who fear for Minkai today, and who are prepared to give our lives to heal it - we are brothers."
Having taken either the box or the thing in the box, Moto leaves the Palace with Daisuke. Feeling it unwise to challenge the mob at the front gate, Moto considers an alternative route back to the Temple.
The small box has a latched padlock on it, but it is so rusted that when Morimoto tugs on it lightly, orange dust falls from it and the mechanism comes loose. A moment later, the now-useless lock can be removed easily and the latch flips up.
ReplyDeleteMorimoto is startled as he lifts the lid. Inside, coiled up very carefully, is a bright green leather whip. The surface of it glistens like the scales of a serpent. On the end of the handle is what appears to be the head of a viper with eyes that glitter like two red jewels.
Morimoto takes the whip, slips it into a personal bag, and then does all the stuff from the previous post.
ReplyDeleteDaisuke says nothing in response, but hurriedly leads Morimoto back out to the outer compound of the palace-city. Roars of the crowd beyond the great gate can be heard. The throng is gathered partly out of fear, partly out of religious zealotry, and partly out of the urge to ride the tide of chaos in this time of confusion. Few of them mean any harm, more than likely, but that could change at any moment.
ReplyDeleteWhen Morimoto inquires about an alternate route out of the imperial estates, he chuckles briefly and then asks, "how comfortable are you with swimming in the canals?"
Governor Osawa is not there to meet with the minstrel, but another guard is there at the gate with the documentation emblazoned with the governor's seal. Whether is carries much weight in this chaotic time remains to be seen, but it is something. Though Morimoto moved as quickly as he could in performing his duties around the palace, the simple act of traveling from one place to another on the imperial grounds is very time-consuming. It is nearing mid-day and the others -- if they are still waiting -- have been waiting for a few hours.
Morimoto nods to the guard and waits patiently for the gate to open. He tightens the draws on his pack, slipping the Governor's seal and the bag with the jeweled whip into his shirt, against his breast. Standing off to one side, he prepares to hurry through.
ReplyDeleteNervous, a song comes to his lips.
"Full draught and good measure
Sing lively fair boy
Raise glass and kimono
For love be not coy.
By the hearth dancing nightly
Wild swans taking flight
Warm glow, honeyed pleasures
My friends, seize the night!"
As the gates open, Moto's voice rings loud, roaring the frivolous tavern song above the din.
Morimoto makes his way to the Temple of the Sun's Blade as quickly as he can. Once he is away from the palace, travel becomes somewhat easier as the civil unrest appears to quiet slightly. Most people seem to be trying to go about their normal lives.
ReplyDeleteOOC: I'm playing out the others' scene at the temple. Once they're done, we can get everybody back together again.