Jade Regent IC

[DrK]

You have completed your journey over the Crown of the World and arrive at the city of Ordu-Aganhei—the gateway to the mysterious Dragon Empires of Tian Xia, or, as Tians prefer to view it, the last outpost of civilization before the wilds of the Crown of the World and beyond. Named after the Tian explorer who first charted the route over the Crown of the World, Ordu-Aganhei is the primary trade hub on the Tian side of the Path of Aganhei, and represents the first major outpost of civilization that you seen since leaving Kalsgard and crossing the savage and deserted wastes in the mountains.

Ameiko and the front of the caravan and Shalelu walking on her long elven legs beside the caravan nods and smiles. Ameiko looks back at you all ""We can finally relax and recover from the rigors of their journey in the city, as well seek out information on the current situation in Minkai". As the dusty caravan approaches the gate to enter the city through its north gate, a decorated tower with a single 30-foot-high reinforced iron door and some 30 guards inside you can hear the excitement and shouts from within.

A caravan coming out of the Crown of the World in the off-season is an almost unheard of occurrence, and the gate guards examine with barely hidden suspicion, halberds are lowered and the lead guard approaches and speaks in broken Taldan. "We search caravan, any trouble gates closed.". The guards’ examination is strict and thorough, dust swirling around them as they work. Ameiko raising an eyebrow at the intense search, leaning back, "You would think that they would welcome the out of season trade"

As the guards rummage and bang about you suddenly hear a sharp shout from within the tower and a portly well dressed man stamps out. He is dressed in a fine silk robe with a small peaked hat perched on his head and offers you a low bow. "Honored guests! Welcome, welcome, and three welcomes more! Please ignore these slithering worms beneath your feet—I assure you they shall be punished for their insolence. Prince Batsaikhar, golden orb of sunlight at the black portal of barbarism, bids you welcome to Ordu-Aganhei, the City at the Edge of the World. My most munificent lord invites his honored guests to his humble palace to rest, dine, partake in polite conversation, and perhaps indulge in some pleasure. The Golden One says he hopes you will honor him with your clever speech from strange lands, a speech that he of all men in Hongal has mastered. He is eager to hear of your journey across the Crown of the World in this most difficult time of travel."

[DaOldeWolf]

Charles jumps out from one of the caravan almost ready to kiss the floor as they finally approach the gates. Lewis the red fox follows him from behind trying to remind him about staying calm to avoid attracting to much attention. Charles takes a moment to compose himself before trying to explain himself. "I am just glad its finally over. Taking care of so many people for so many days has been quite the challenge. I never expected we would be able to make it in one piece.".

Still, it had been a worthwhile journey just for the chance of travelling and battling side by side with his heroine, Ameiko. He began to wonder how the city would look on the inside. He remembers hearing about it from his mother and couldnt wait to see how much it had changed from the stories she told him. Charles remains calm and greets the guard with a smile. "(Tien)Good day, sir!(/Tien)"

Charles raises his eyebrow confused when they are received by the well dressed gentleman. Charles whispers to the others in the caravan. "I am not sure about this. I didnt know someone was waiting for our arrival.". Lewis nods in agreement about this assessment though he decides to remain silent to avoid revealing that he could talk.

Spoiler: OOC

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To be ready for anything. I will pick my spells now and pick Lewis´ Evolutions.
Lewis evolution will be: Immunity: Fire (Cost: 2 evo points)

Spoiler: Spells

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0=Detect Magic, Read Magic, Dancing Lights, Mage Hand, Message, Arcane Mark, Prestidigitation, Mending, Ray of Frost
1=Feather Fall, Silent Image, Identify, Magic Missile, Obscuring Mist
2=Merge with Familiar, Invisibility, Protection from Arrows, Gust of Wind
3=Lightning Bolt, Dispel Magic, Fly
4=Shadow Conjuration, Wall of fire
5=Sending

[Zero Prime]

Tsu Yang Zhou, Blade Bound Champion of the Blessed Moon HP: 83 (91) | CURRENT: 83 (91) | AC: 23 | TOUCH: 13 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 24 | FCMD: 23 INITIATIVE: +7 | PERCEPTION: +18 | FORTITUDE: +12 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +11 SPELL SLOTS: 0: 5/5 | 1st: 6/6 | 2nd: 4/5 | 3rd: 3/3 | 4th: 1/1 ARCANA POOL: 5 | CURRENT: 5 | BLACK BLADE POOL: 3 | CURRENT: 3 ACTIVE EFFECTS: Visualization of Body (Constitution) CONDITIONS: None. Zhou nodded by way of greeting as Grysta dismounted from the rearmost wagon, he, himself, had been travelling on foot, preferring the feel of earth and clouds of road dust to the jarring, subtle rocking of a cart bed. "Master Grysta," he spoke in a soft, patient tone, "it has indeed been a long journey, one that started at Brinewall Castle, lead us to the halls of the Linnorn Kings, we crossed the Spine of the World, and crossed the Wall of Heaven to be here." He nodded towards the great gateway before them, "our path beset by dangers ahead, and assassin's behind. It is wise to be cautious, but foolish to ignore the invitation of a man with as auspicious name as Prince Batsaikhar, Golden Orb of Sunlight at the Black Portal of Barbarism." He tapped his skull, "However, we must remember that we enter through the Black Portal, as such will be viewed as the barbarians here, so must comport ourselves with respect, and dignity, lest we be drawn into a situation where we offend our host, and he seeks to impede our journy through these, self same, gates." Having circled around to the wagon which held his companions, he lifted the rear flap, as to conceal the conversation from the Lord's emissary, "Greetings friends," he said as he crawled into the wagon's interior, "I feel it is in our best interest to accept the invitation, and learn what we can from our Host, but I pray we do not tarry long, our steps are still pursued by those assassins who attacked as in Linnorn, and again at the Wall of Heaven."

[Captain Jak]

Spoiler: Stat Precis

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Emika
HP: 84 | CURRENT: 84 | AC: 24 | TOUCH: 12 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 26 | FCMD: 24
INITIATIVE: +2 | PERCEPTION: +8 | FORTITUDE: +10 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +5
ACTIVE EFFECTS: None.
CONDITIONS: None.

Dusty, sore, and tired from their extended journey, Emika is very much glad to see what currently passes for civilization as it draws nearer. Hopping from the wagon where she was catching a ride, she makes her way with rapid strides to the front of the caravan, in time for the less than warm welcome from the guards – a greeting that doesn’t catch her by a great deal of surprise.

As is her practice, she’s traveling sans armour and with only a few small weapons showing, a far more comfortable way to journey if one has the option. Her sturdy travelling leathers are worn, battered, but at least not as dirty as they could have been; even if they are very much the style of the other continent.

The arrival of the loquacious official triggers a slight narrowing of her eyes; truly, every random caravan in the off-season is invited to dine with the local lord? She can’t recall if she’s heard any such reputation from this Prince off the top of her head. Regardless, it seems that her companions are generally in favour of accepting the invitation.

”Please convey our appreciation of the Golden One’s most generous offer,” she replies with a practiced smile. While she doesn’t possess a particularly winning nature, she’s made a practice of being able to speak pleasant words at need. ”We will be honoured to present ourselves once we have washed the dust of our journey from our feet and dressed in something more suitable for such an audience.”

Or in some cases, return from purchasing something suitable. The rigors of the journey has left her with nothing worth wearing but her current travel outfit and her armour; neither of which will present the sort of impression they would wish to, going into this....

Spoiler: OOC:

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Knowledge (Nobility): (1d20+10)[11]

[Foryn Gilnith]

Gao Wen sits in the wagon with his eyes closed and a set of prayer beads in hand, leaving first impressions to their honorable leader Ameiko as well as the more aggressive members of the group. Keeping his ears perked to train the senses, he breaks into a soft smile as the honeyed invitation of the envoy drifts into the caravan. After all, what welcome would be more fitting for a group ordained by the heavens to restore righteous rule to the land? However, as Zhou returns to the wagon and delivers more sobering comments, Gao Wen rouses with a frown and tucks his beads back into a corner of his kasaya.

"Indeed, the eyes of the Five Storms reach far, and the legs of their agents are swift. Though the righteous need not fear the grasping hands of the wicked, it would be a terrible thing to draw the people of Hongal into our conflict... that said, one night of hospitality should be safe enough for for this Prince Batsaikhar to offer."

Having said his piece, Gao Wen reaches to his side for the serpentine mage's staff that has accompanied him through all the battlefields of the frozen north. As he stands up, his eyes drift across the glinting armor and sharpened steel borne by the rest of the party, and a faint smirk appears on Gao Wen's face. "And more than safe enough for us, if some fools of ninja dare to think our travels have made us softer quarry."

[farothel]

Darhana had been riding next to the caravan now they were in more civilized lands. During the travels over the Crown of the World she had often explored ahead, checking out the route to make sure passes were open and stuff like that. She was glad that it was over and she could have a rest.
"We're almost there, Prancer," she said, patting her horse on his neck. He flicked his ears and gave a snort.

When the guards searched, she kept an eye on them and the ones still on the walls and towers. They would have to endure the search, as those could easily kill them. She might be able to get away, but there was no way the rest would, so she stayed and endured the search. It wasn't that she had many possessions anyway and if they wanted to search her travel rations, they could.

But then someone intervened on behalf of the lord of the city.
"I agree with my colleague here," she said in the Tien she had learned on the way here, nodding at Emika. She could certainly do with a bath.

[DrK]

At the agreement Chua nods beneficially and waves away the guards. "Be gone be gone Can you ont see these fine folk are the guests of his most honoured Prince of Batasaikhar, the most mighty of Ordu-Aganhei." The guards leap to obey and soon enough the massive gates are pulled open to reveal the bustling streets beyond. As the gate opens a vast wave of "humanity" washes over you, the stink strong after you months of harsh transit across the Crown of the World. A strong tang of sulphur is on the air from the hot springs that feed the ornamental lakes at the heart of the city.

The city is a tightly packed maze of stout wooden timber buildings with high gables and ornate brightly coloured eaves with long banners proclaiming the shops owners and wares fluttering the breeze like a reverse forest of shining colours. Thousands of prayer flags hanging from balconies and roofs add to the effect so that it seems all the upper levels are covered in flickering coloured paper. THe streets tightly packed with stalls of of all kinds and meats and food of many strange types lining the edges of the streets, at regular intervals you see the soliders in dark blue uniforms with long halberds patrolling and despite the crowds and the incense and food smells the city seems clean, certainly compared to the squallid longhalls of the Linnorm Kings that was your last taste of civilisation.

As you are led through the city you attract a lot of attention, people shouting out to you, traders shouting out offers for your wares or your women! and street performers tumbling alongside, or breathing great gouts of alchemical fire to great applause. Ameiko looks at you all with a grin, "Its so busy! My parents had spoken of it being packed, all of Sandpoint would be swallowed up here!" Her words are choked off as you abruptly reach the end of an alley and come out int othe central plaza, a large ornamental lake with rough sand surrounding a steaming lake filled with bathers and children playing and birds wading through the shallows. A large park like garden is laid out around the lake and on the far side the imposing Palace of the Prince with massive streamers proclaiming his majestic strengths hanging from the gold plated eaves. The square by the palace is near empty save for that of dozens of blue frocked soldiers and a in a grim macabre decoration a garden contains the spiked remains of some 30 prisoners spitted atop long bamboo poles reminiscent of the bamboo flowers on the far side of the lake. Emika looking to the others cannot recall much about this Prince, its has been long she was in these parts but you get the impression you should be careful!

On the far side of the lake, near you as you enter the square you can see a massive 4 storey pagoda marked with the symbol of Abador, athough those of you native these lands know he is known here as the Lord of Ditches and Walls (as these represent civilisation in this land!). Entering the palace courtyard functioanries in fine silk robes run forward to take the tired horses and you are ushered inside. Another functionary, this time with a strange peaked cap with three long bells ringing gently atop it shows you to a suite of rooms in the Eastern wing of the palace. "His most high Prince, most mighty of the Northern Realms and Watcher of the Sprit Road bids you welcome. Rest, wash and relax. Tonight his benevolence would invite you to a feast in his honour where you regale him with tales of your adventures."

[farothel]

Darhana was more at ease in the wilderness than in cities, although she liked Sandpoint well enough. But this was a lot more and a lot worse. Even her horse, Prancer, wasn't sure about this. She patted his neck.
"C'mon," she said, "we've been through worse and soon you can rest with some fresh food."
The horse snorted again and moved on, flicking his ears left and right as the sounds became more intense.

When she passed one of the fire breathers, Prancer shied away from the fire.
"Be careful," Darhana said in accented Tien, "horses don't like fire."

Soon they were past that and Darhana's look was drawn to the dead people on the bamboo.
"Is this normal here," she asked Shalelu, still the person she knew best amongst those in the caravan.

Soon they were in the palace and when people came to collect the horses, she looked at Prancer.
"No biting," she said, "and no stomping on people's feet either, okay?"
The horse flicked with his ears.

Then she followed the others into the palace and she took out her fancy clothes out of her haversack and put them over a bamboo frame screen in the room so the wrinkles could smooth out, before she headed for the baths.

[Zero Prime]

Tsu Yang Zhou, Blade Bound Champion of the Blessed Moon HP: 83 (91) | CURRENT: 83 (91) | AC: 23 | TOUCH: 13 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 24 | FCMD: 23 INITIATIVE: +7 | PERCEPTION: +18 | FORTITUDE: +12 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +11 SPELL SLOTS: 0: 5/5 | 1st: 6/6 | 2nd: 4/5 | 3rd: 3/3 | 4th: 1/1 ARCANA POOL: 5 | CURRENT: 5 | BLACK BLADE POOL: 3 | CURRENT: 3 ACTIVE EFFECTS: Visualization of Body (Constitution) CONDITIONS: None. Zhou walked stoically alongside the caravan, his eyes focused forward, however, he moved deftly to avoid the press of the crowd where he could, looking back to his companions to judge their reactions to the peoples of Ordu-Agenhei. The curiosity of the crowd and the clamor for their attention, that, he could understand, they were honored guests of their Price, and so to be admired, as much as a word, or a coin, could elevate the status of any merchant here. What he could not abide, was the barbaric display of near two score criminals, spitted as if animals, and left to rot in the crisp, spring air. His brow furrowed, he looked to his companions to judge their reaction. As functionaries moved to divest him of his belongings, he stubbornly insisted he carry his own possessions, instead cornering one of the lower bureaucrats, "I had been led to believe that Ordu-Agenhei was the last bastion of civilisation before one traverses the Spine of the World. How, then, is it, that men and women are executed and their bodies left on display? Surely their crimes are not such that they must endure indignity even beyond death?!?"

[DaOldeWolf]

Charles wasnt exactly sure about the situation. He didnt think of any reason to receive special treatment especially from a stranger. Charles decides to follow the others for the time being while waiting for answers or context. "Thank you very much for the invitation and the warm welcome." He replies knowing he was leaving out the part of the guard reception. At the very least, he would try to be respectful especially if they were soon to be dealing with a prince.

Lewis jumped on Charles´ shoulders instead of using its feet. He decides to keep an eye on the surroundings since he didnt safe at all of the current situation. He could only hope that he was wrong but the whole thing sounded too suspicious to just let it be.

[Foryn Gilnith]

Gao Wen frowns at the sight of the palace's brutal sculpture garden, a frown which only lifts once Zhou voices some of his own concerns. Seeing that a direct condemnation has been delivered, he moves up to join in haranguing the attendant. "Indeed, how could you do such a thing?" he calls out, waving a scolding finger and making no attempt to lower his volume. "Even if your Prince Batsaikhar is a valiant man who fears neither scorn nor reprobation, this arrangement of bodies is very inauspicious. It will attract foul energy; maybe even the attention of demons and evil spirits. As guests invited under the spirit of hospitality, we cannot let such a problem go unaddressed."

With a flick of his sleeve, Gao Wen takes his holy symbol in hand - a simple wooden thing, reflecting the stark triangular mountain peaks over which Yamatsumi holds dominion. Holding it aloft, he begins walking toward the bodies in the square while shouting his next statement. "Go inform His Majesty that we will conduct a complimentary rite to dispel bad fortune in this very square!"

"Our apologies if this delays your business," he adds, with not a trace of apology to be found on his face, before turning to the rest of the party. "Now come on, help me get these down; we need to light some incense as well."

[Captain Jak]

Spoiler: STAT BLOCK

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Emika
HP: 84 | CURRENT: 84 | AC: 24 | TOUCH: 12 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 26 | FCMD: 24
INITIATIVE: +2 | PERCEPTION: +8 | FORTITUDE: +10 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +5
ACTIVE EFFECTS: None.
CONDITIONS: None.

Stiffening, Emika strides across the square to her outspoken companion. Yes, she too finds the practice barbaric and reprehensible, but....

”Perhaps we should hesitate before offering offense to our host, no matter how unintentional,” she tells Gao Wen, laying a lightly restraining hand on his arm while her dark gaze pierces into his face. ”Surely such an enlightened man as the Prince has quite compelling reasons to maintain such a display, and we would not wish to offend by presuming we know better before we hear those reasons.”

Her tone is pointed, but it has been a long journey and she would like at least a short while to catch her breath before potentially adding another actively hostile enemy to the ranks of those already arrayed against them.

He would just have to forgive her tone.

[Foryn Gilnith]

Gao Wen takes his thin arms off the bamboo pole he had been lightly rattling before giving Emika a perplexed look. "If you think it wise, I can settle for lighting incense," he says while reaching into the folds of his robes for a few thin sticks. "But it goes without saying that we have reasons of our own, and if the Prince insists on pressing the topic it would only be proper to assess whose 'reason' is firmer..." His eyes drift toward Onigiri's sheath as he makes that last remark, before continuing on to size up any attendants visible.

[Zero Prime]

Tsu Yang Zhou, Blade Bound Champion of the Blessed Moon HP: 83 (91) | CURRENT: 83 (91) | AC: 23 | TOUCH: 13 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 24 | FCMD: 23 INITIATIVE: +7 | PERCEPTION: +18 | FORTITUDE: +12 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +11 SPELL SLOTS: 0: 5/5 | 1st: 6/6 | 2nd: 4/5 | 3rd: 3/3 | 4th: 1/1 ARCANA POOL: 5 | CURRENT: 5 | BLACK BLADE POOL: 3 | CURRENT: 3 ACTIVE EFFECTS: Visualization of Body (Constitution) CONDITIONS: None. Zhou nodded to Gao Wen, "Allow me to accompany you then brother, I will intone a prayer to the Prince of the Moon, that he may shine the cleansing light of the crescent upon this place, and allow their souls to ascend to the heavens to be judges by the gods, not men, for their supposed crimes." The warrior moved with his companion, staring daggers at their hosts various advisors, as if challenging them to prevent him from, at the least, praying for the spirits of the departed, so cruelly displayed.

[DrK]

As the priest moves towards the barbaric display of skewered bodies guards move to stop him, hard eyes watching Gao Wen and Zhou. As he mentions removing the bodies one of the nearest guards, with an ornate blade at his waist and a silken tasselled scarf around his waist. "Step back noble visitors. Prince Batsaikahar's garden is not to be touched." He gestures slightly angrily towards he palace with a chop of his hand.

Move to your rooms. His most noble highness would want you to rest before the feast, enjoy your rooms, his most generous majesty has spared no expense." His eyes flicker towards Emika, Ameiko and Shalelu, "His greatness will proved clothes of the finest silks and jewels and exotic foods." Putting himself in front of SHou and Gao Wen, the other guards move up to encircle them and make it clear they are not welcome.

Behind Gao Wen, Emika and Shou where the rest of the caravan are sill walking Ameiko and Shalelu look to the others, Amieko whisper to Charles and Darhana "Have a care, I have not heard much of the Prince, but what I have heard of Batsaikar is not good. He is a smiling assassni. He smiles while he feasts, smiles while negotiating trade and smiles while he beheads servants to test the edge of his blade."

[Zero Prime]

Tsu Yang Zhou, Blade Bound Champion of the Blessed Moon HP: 83 (91) | CURRENT: 83 (91) | AC: 23 | TOUCH: 13 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 24 | FCMD: 23 INITIATIVE: +7 | PERCEPTION: +18 | FORTITUDE: +12 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +11 SPELL SLOTS: 0: 5/5 | 1st: 6/6 | 2nd: 4/5 | 3rd: 3/3 | 4th: 1/1 ARCANA POOL: 5 | CURRENT: 5 | BLACK BLADE POOL: 3 | CURRENT: 3 ACTIVE EFFECTS: Visualization of Body (Constitution) CONDITIONS: None. Zhou stared through the large man blocking his path, a slight furrow between his brow, but otherwise entirely serene, like a pool of water the image of the moon, without grasping what it held upon it's surface, or showed to the world. As Ameiko's words drifted to him on the wind, there was a slight click, as he slid his jade blade back into the scabbard at his hip. Having loosened it in anticipation of the coming violence, he nodded to the guard, and when he spoke it was at a volume for the single guard who had blocked his path and him alone, "Know that you came within a hair of crossing the veil between life and death this day." His utterly serene face expressed to the guard that he was not threatening him, nor was it a show of bravado, but as a disciple of the Prince of Moons, he was fully committed to having spent his life in such a fashion, to attain the guard's own death. As he turned towards Gao Wen, he smiled, and spoke loudly, "And here I thought that the walls of Ordu-Aganhei so tall, it's gates so thick, as to keep the barbarians out, rather than trapped within." He placed a hand on his companion's sleeve, "Shall we accept their hospitality, and wash from our feet the dust of the road, so we can place the shadow of this border town at our back on the morrow?"

[DaOldeWolf]

Charles was a bit surprised by his teammate immediate action to intervene and while he agreed on how uncomforting the decour was, he wanted to give the prince the benefit of the doubt. In the meantime, Charles starts speaking in his private language with Lewis trying to recall with his familiar on any information that they might recall about the prince and the city. Hopefully, between the two, they could get the bigger picture on the whole thing. The two then begin talking with each other about what they remembered from books.

Spoiler: OOC

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Charles: K. Local roll: (1d20+19)[21]
Lewis: K. Nobility: (1d20+7)[12]
K. Local: (1d20+7)[18]
K. History: (1d20+7)[9]

[farothel]

Darhana decided to leave things for now as they were vastly outnumbered in this town and didn't know the lay of the land. At least not enough. After a refreshing bath, she put on her good clothes and the jewelry that went with it. Leaving her armour off, she put her bow in the pocket of her quiver and put that one on her back, as if it was part of the outfit. While it was in woodland colours, it was fancy enough not to be completely out of place. She also kept her sword and dagger with her.

A bit before the hour, she was ready to go and meet this prince guy.

[Captain Jak]

Spoiler: STAT BLOCK

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Emika
HP: 84 | CURRENT: 84 | AC: 24 | TOUCH: 12 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 26 | FCMD: 24
INITIATIVE: +2 | PERCEPTION: +8 | FORTITUDE: +10 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +5
ACTIVE EFFECTS: None.
CONDITIONS: None.

Emika refrains from grinding her teeth, but just barely. It is one thing to have a moral objection to a repugnant practice, and she has no objections to setting such situations right by whatever means – but there comes a time for discretion, unless you wish to die in the dirt, far from home, because you throw a challenge into the face of everything you come across that doesn’t pass your judgement.

”His greatness is indeed most generous,” she replies, not showing any concern at the guards more overtly around them. Yes, they were in the trap now, but the options are try to cut their way out at that very moment and flee, or wait and see through this dangerous princeling’s game and hopefully escape unscathed on the other side.

If not, cutting their way out was always still an option to hold in reserve; one that might work all the better if they started doing so from the peak of the problem, rather than hacking here at the roots.

She has to wonder if the appropriate clothing they are to be provided comes from owners who no longer number among the living, but there isn’t much they can do about that for the moment. She does know, regardless, that she will not be attending the Prince entirely unprepared....

[Foryn Gilnith]

Gao Wen gives the assembling guards a quick glance but otherwise ignores them, seeing only his fellow party-members as worthy of concern. On hearing Zhou's comments, he laughs, nods in agreement, and claps the swordsman on the back. "It wasn't just a pretense, you know. Even if we can't convince the prince to put aside his brazen and brutish ways, we should at least implore him to have displays like this end sooner. I doubt any ruler would like to see vengeful ghosts run rampant right under his nose, after all."

As the group continues on to their quarters, Gao Wen agrees to use the provided clothes rather than taking out his own silks. While he does worry about concealed poisons, it would hardly do any good for one and only one person to evade the threat; might as well go forth fearlessly.

[Zero Prime]

Tsu Yang Zhou, Blade Bound Champion of the Blessed Moon HP: 83 (91) | CURRENT: 83 (91) | AC: 23 | TOUCH: 13 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 24 | FCMD: 23 INITIATIVE: +7 | PERCEPTION: +18 | FORTITUDE: +12 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +11 SPELL SLOTS: 0: 5/5 | 1st: 6/6 | 2nd: 4/5 | 3rd: 3/3 | 4th: 1/1 ARCANA POOL: 5 | CURRENT: 5 | BLACK BLADE POOL: 3 | CURRENT: 3 ACTIVE EFFECTS: Visualization of Body (Constitution) CONDITIONS: None. Tsu Yang Zhou was not a vindictive man, nor one prone to bouts of violence, he was, however, passionate. And while his behaviour was unseemly to some, it was a sentiment he felt rightfully, and truthfully, needed to be expressed. One should not allow the fear of retribution prevent one from speaking a truth, even if that retribution costs one life. However, he did not hold grudges, and once in his assigned apartment, accepted it with sincerity and humility. Thanking the servant who led him to the chambers, he opened a door to the veranda and took in the view of the city. Thankfully it was facing away from the displayed bodies of criminals and prisoners, so instead, he chose to concentrate on the marvels of architecture, the banners and pennants snapping in the breeze, and as the sun began to set men moved through the streets lighting lanterns ensconced in colored paper, which cast warm hues of reds, oranges, and yellow, like flames licking the buildings, markets, and squares of this, most famous, city on the edge of the world. He took a moment to greet the moon in the sky, hiding demurely behind the wisp of a cloud, he smiled and bowed, before moving back to the interior of his assigned apartment. He wandered towards a steaming bath, scrubbing the road dust with such vigor his skin stood a bright shade of pink, he then unbound his hair and washed it thoroughly. Satisfied he was clean, and feeling refreshed from the steaming heat of the bath, he stood, and clothed his whipcord lean body in fresh linen underclothes, and beautiful, cool, silks, of sombre green and brown, trimmed with yellows and golds. As he prepared to move towards the common hall, he thought to leave his blade behind, so as not to further offend his host. However, an errant whisper entered his thoughts, he nodded to the voiceless word. "Yes, Mingxing, we should display our humility and our strength," and he reached back to place the broad bladed crescent ringed blade through his sash, as he stepped into the hall, looking for his companions.

Spoiler: Out of Character Actions

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OOC: I am assuming that the guest chambers all exit into a common suite or something where we can converse without crowding into one another's bed chambers. If I am wrong, let me know and I will edit appropriately.

[DrK]

The guest wing is a example of sumptuous luxury, a decorated small indoor orchid garden sits around around a small pool under a glass roof at the centre of the suite of rooms. Each of your rooms has an immense circular bed with silken sheets and a selection of kimono's and other traditional Tien/Minkai attire in a rainbow of colours. As a servant bows low, showing you the way to the rooms he motions to the rooms. Its Gao Wen when proffered to a room is greeted by a balcony overlooking the bamboo / corpse "flower garden". The servant bows low again, hiding his face under the brim of his wide tasseled hat and motions to a box in the corner of Gao Wen's room. "His majesty heard of your admiration for his flower garden, he has a special gift for you." He pulls aside a silken sheet from a stand in the corner to reveal a grinning partially rotten head atop a spear decorated with fronds of flowers. "The great one bid you enjoy the private garden.."

The suite throngs with servants, each one of you with 3-4 silk shrouded servants shadowing you at all times but the lead servant points to your rooms. "The majesty will feast with you this evening."


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In the evening, as fireworks explode in colour and fire over the city and music and banners wave suggesting a city in revelry servants usher you down through gold leaf covered corridors and others lined with silk canvases and painted screens of wild animals and monsters mauling people to death. Eventually you are announced into a grand chamber which is packed with tall thin oiled courtiers, noble warriors with pairs of swords at their waist and hundreds of servants. In the centre of the room, barely visible through the fog of incense and surrounded by silken screens lies a vast bed some 20ft across. Atop the bed are half a dozen women, figures painted with pale white masks and in their centre in a voluminous golden and amethyst robes is the scrawny figure of Prince Batsaikhar



CHuar is back again and nods and grins, "My Majesty, Iron Shield of the Northern Empire, please see the caravan of Ameiko Lonjitsu..." the lack of titles hangs in the air, and the Prince's smile while wide does not touch his eyes. "Honoured guests who would seek my shelter and benevolence. Please introduce yourselves, tell me of yourself then we may feast and we shall host a grand banquet...

[Captain Jak]

Spoiler: STAT BLOCK

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Emika
HP: 84 | CURRENT: 84 | AC: 24 | TOUCH: 12 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 26 | FCMD: 24
INITIATIVE: +2 | PERCEPTION: +8 | FORTITUDE: +10 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +5
ACTIVE EFFECTS: None.
CONDITIONS: None.

Hoping that none of her companions do anything rash to hasten the arrival of impending doom, Emika tours the suite while making appropriate murmurs of delight and appreciation at the lavish surroundings; not incidentally at the same time making note of entrances and exits, overt and otherwise, and likely places for concealed listening posts.

Or murder holes.

Tasked, in part, with security – whether they are currently a caravan or not – she encourages her female companions to bathe and dress together, under the premise of needing to confer on matters of fashion. Fashion or otherwise, they were safer in numbers for as long as they could manage such.

It is...strange, she supposes, to be back in proper clothing after all this time. Disconcerting in the least to have much shorter hair, of course, but such things can’t be helped. One dressed she tucks her kukri into the wide belt of her kimono, willing to lose the weapon should they not be allowed in the presence of the Prince; more importantly, she secrets her leather gloves beneath the silken fabric as well, and pins her broach to the inside of the kimono’s collar. She is, sufficiently or not, as prepared as she is able.

---

The scene presented to them that evening in the grand chamber is not a reassuring one. The sheer amount of excess demonstrated is suggestive of the mind of the man who rules here, and the degree to which they are outnumbered by armed warriors is far from comforting.

At least, in the borderlands as they are, there is a vanishingly small chance she will run into anyone who might have known her from before.

”Your majesty, your generosity is truly as large as both your wealth and your very greatness,” she replies clearly, calling the attention first upon herself as she bends her knee into a curtsy that comes with the ease of long practice in her youth, regardless of how long it has been since she has performed this obeisance.

”Your noble court does us an honour to receive us, for we are but travellers passing through your princedom; holders of no lands, keepers of no wealth, with no titles bestowed upon our simple names. I have the pleasure to be Emika,” she introduces herself, claiming no family name. ”One who has been long from our lands and who rejoices in the opportunity to partake in your celebration.”

Rising from her curtsy, she bows her head and steps back once more.

Hopefully, her companions will be able to restrain themselves from, at the very least, outright rudeness....

[farothel]

Darhana isn't sure about what's going on here. There is something really wrong in this city, but at the moment they are very outnumbered so she decides to observe and try to figure out more about what's going on. While everybody who puts up a display like the one in the square is evil or mad... and possibly both, she first needs more information before they can try and do something about it.
"Thank you for the reception, your highness," she says in her accented Tien, making a curtsy, "I'm Darhana of Truegar."

Spoiler: OOC Darhana's dress

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This is an example of Darhana's dress
Darhana's dress
EDIT: putting an image didn't seem to work, so I'll link to it.

[DaOldeWolf]

Charles was a bit nervous about the possibility of things going south especially after the discusion between himself and Lewis. "(Familiar Language)What have we gotten ourselves into?(/Familiar Language)" Charles complains to Lewis. Lewis sighs as he thinks about the situation. "(Familiar Language)Well, its pretty obvious that this formal meeting wont allow diminished creatures such as myself and yet I must point out that separating from one another is not an option.(/Familiar Language)" Charles discusses with Lewis for a bit about how they should handle the whole "celebration".

Spoiler: OOC

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Charles casts merge with familiar. It should last 10 hours. During this period, the two can merge and separate at will as a move action. He thne changes clothes.

Spoiler: Clothing image

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Afterwards, he decides to give a message to Tsu and Gao Wen on his information recollection and hopefully help them be prepared for what may come to be. He casts a spell twice and gives the following message to both of them. "Insane prince. Corrupt government. Be careful. Keep an eye on leader of the bodyguards Imijitsu. Be prepared for the worse. Try and warn the others." He then goes to finish his preparations by first merging with Lewis, changing into his human form and finally by casting a defensive ward on himself before finally leaving the room.

Spoiler: OOC

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Charles casts sending and Protection from arrows (duration: 10 hrs).

Spoiler: Spells per day

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1(6) 2(4) 3(5) 4(5) 5(1)

Spoiler: Human appearance

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__________________________________________________ __________________________________

Charles tries to remain friendly with the prince. "Such a warm welcome. Thank you very much your Highness for giving us such a warm welcome. And your palace, it is a sight to behold." Charles replies trying to give genuine praise in whatever way he could think of. "I am known as Charles Grysta. A humble traveller of this caravan." Charles didnt want to give too much information about himself especially if it could be used against him.

Charles tried his best to enjoy the evening with the others. Even with the potential dangers, this could be the only time he might get for some fun and relaxation. The biggest surprise of all was how beautiful Emika and Darhana looked in their attires. He had to hold himself from giving more than a passing compliment since he didnt want to sound disrespectful to either of them.

[Zero Prime]

Tsu Yang Zhou, Blade Bound Champion of the Blessed Moon HP: 83 (91) | CURRENT: 83 (91) | AC: 23 | TOUCH: 13 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 24 | FCMD: 23 INITIATIVE: +7 | PERCEPTION: +18 | FORTITUDE: +12 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +11 SPELL SLOTS: 0: 5/5 | 1st: 6/6 | 2nd: 4/5 | 3rd: 3/3 | 4th: 1/1 ARCANA POOL: 5 | CURRENT: 5 | BLACK BLADE POOL: 3 | CURRENT: 3 ACTIVE EFFECTS: Visualization of Body (Constitution) CONDITIONS: None. "Insane prince. Corrupt government. Be careful. Keep an eye on leader of the bodyguards Imijitsu. Be prepared for the worse. Try and warn the others." Prior to the evenings celebrations, Zhou received a most curious message from his ally, once delivered through the arcane ether, direct, and unbidden to his mind. Given the seriousness of the missive, he chose to obey it's counsel. As such, while his companions introduced themselves, he took a care to scan the room, seeking to pick up the aforementioned Imijitsu. When it came his turn, Tsu Yang Zhou nodded as he stepped forward to introduce himself to the capricious ruler of Ordu-Aganhei, "Tsu Yang Zhou, humble servant of our Lord Prince Tsukiyo, the Jade Crescent Prince, Consort to the most Respelndent Shizuru, Empress of Heaven and all beneath it. Grown to manhood beneath the Wall of Heaven, trained as Jade Champion under Matron Mother Xiasheng Sing, in the illustrious halls of Grand Qian Tin Temple. Tasked to traverse the spine of the world, and return, having done so I find myself in the esteemed presence of, his most munificent lord and guardian of Ordu-Aganhei. And before we feast, my companions and I humbly request the benevolence and hospitality of our Lord Prince, to remain in his, most glorious, halls."

[DrK]

As you each introduce yourself Ameiko and Shalelu join in. The elven ranger giving a polite if curt "I am Shalelu, a weary hunter and traveller and gracious to he mighty Prince of Ordu-Aganhei for his welcome." Ameiko is a bit more circumspect, not mentioning the strange letter and missive she had received about being heir to the Jade Throne and returning to throw off the chains of tyranny (chains that appeared to rest lightly on this local tyrant).


The prince nods, smiling, although you can feel the insincerity. Chau by the Prince's side listens to some whispered words begore shouting out. "His mighty would welcome you all sit and be welcome. When the dawn breaks you are welcome in his markets to trade your wares. But this evening we feast and entertain." He claps his hands sharply as you are shown to a table far from the raised bed/dais.
As you sit servants flood the area bearing great silver platters of steamed hongali stone frogs, goats feet served on noodles, fish lips on celery and drunken shrimps. The food is fanciful and extreme, spiced wildly to the point of near inedibility but still you see everyone else in the room eating with pained smiles. As you eat a pair of beautiful young ladies with painted faces enter the chamber and after kneeling and paying homage to the Prince they begin to play a delicate folk song on their morin khur (a type of horsehead fiddle) whilst the second enacts the play pi ying xi (leather shadow puppets). As they finish the Prince looks to his guests, "My friends from distant lands. Would be as kind to give me a story from you own homeland."

OOC

Perform, sleight of hand (for puppetry) or diplomacy for story are acceptable

[farothel]

Darhana looked around and stood up.
"I can tell you about the time when I went with my parents to visit a dragon," she started, "it was around twelve years ago, when I was still young. The dragon was a young silver named Zimargix, a daughter of Avaleru. My parents had helped the dragon in the past and they had kept in contact. As you know, silver dragons are quite curious and Zimargix had asked a few times to see me. I got the feeling that she had never seen young humans, or half-elves in my case, before.

We had to travel quite a distance as dragons prefer to live in the wilderness, and silvers like to live in the mountains. They are also quite reclusive beings and to be counted as even a mere acquaintance of one is a great honour. After a travel of two weeks in the wilderness, we arrived near the dragon's lair to the agreed upon meeting point. There Zimargix came to us. While she was still young, she was still large and a magnificent creature. We were actually the same age and we got along quite well. I asked a lot of questions and while my parents were embarrassed, Zimargix didn't mind, although she didn't answer all of them of course. A girl has to have some secrets, right? She even let me fly on her back and I can tell you, there's nothing more thrilling than flying on the back of a dragon. I would love to do that again some day. Or even better, get wings of my own."

diplomacy: (1d20+6)[18]

[Captain Jak]

Spoiler: STAT BLOCK

Show

Emika
HP: 84 | CURRENT: 84 | AC: 24 | TOUCH: 12 | FLAT: 22 | CMD: 26 | FCMD: 24
INITIATIVE: +2 | PERCEPTION: +8 | FORTITUDE: +10 | REFLEX: +7 | WILL: +5
ACTIVE EFFECTS: None.
CONDITIONS: None.

Emika sits through the banquet not with any great enthusiasm, but with the knowledge that she has endured their like before, if perhaps not under so mercurial of a host. The food is spiced to the point of being a feat of bravery to eat it, and she wishes for her cloak, back in their provided quarters, in hopes of its enchantments ability to mitigate the seasonings somewhat.

The request for a story makes her shift uneasily; she is no great wordsmith, her lady’s skills running more to the gentle arts of calligraphy and dance – and she is rather out of practice for either in any case.

Thankfully, her companion steps up to fulfill their obligation, and she listens with interest despite herself as she has not heard this particular tale before.

Hopefully, it will be sufficient to satisfy their fickle host....

[DaOldeWolf]

Charles feels a bit uneasy about the current situation and he can only hope for the whole event to be over. He could barely stand the tension from the fickle prince and the disgusting food didnt help matters. On one hand, he considered staying out of the whole thing but this was a good chance to show all he had been practicing while travelling with his idol Ameiko. Maybe a story accompanied with music would be of the prince´s tastes. He decides to talk about his first encounter with Ameiko, playing his guitar to set the mood.

Spoiler: The music it plays

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"This is the story on how I met Ameiko.

A great time to be had.
The festival starts , the people cheer and time goes by.
A celebration of no end, of great comfort from what we gain.
It seemed like great fun would be to be had....
Until, the green vermin arrive.
Blood spills and and people running about.

A lone child with no one by his side.
Frozen in place, unable to react.
As the goblins keep eating all the tarts,
The end could be near for the kid in stand by

The moment of truth, the goblin comes for you!
A hand with a blade,
and blood that soon will shed.
A single strike and the body falls down.

The young lad is safe,
the goblin meets its end.
Fighting the creatures, she stands.
The famous Ameiko, who saved this man´s life.
"

Spoiler: OOC

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Perform (strings) using masterwork guitar: (1d20+18)[30]