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 Post subject: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Sun Oct 01, 2017 12:32 am 
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Premise

As a show of Lion support for Hantei Jama's First Voyage, the younger sister of the current Lion Champion, Akodo Meikuko, has arrived in the Dragon's Guard City. She is still unwed at the very eligible age of eighteen, though nothing is officially said that this might be the purpose of her visit. However, due to her brother Ikuo's astounding choice it is now on her to give birth to an Akodo heir, so at some point she needs to secure a husband. However, she can neither be swayed toward considering prolonged courtship nor to give special consideration to political convenience. In her heart she wants a strong and honourable warrior leader who will sire strong and honourable warrior leaders, and the expeditious nature of the miai the Imperial Matchmaker has arranged for the unwed departing Imperial Explorers suits her just fine as an opportunity to explore her options, even if her chosen would sail away for months right after.

But before she even considers one of them, she has to see for herself what sort of samurai make up the Imperial Explorer Corps. After all, he will one day raise the future leader of her Clan as she would stand at its helm. To that end, she must discern whether the Corps is a new and powerful tradition that the Lion should embrace as they have the Imperial Legions or whether they should distance themselves from a certain failure so that they may position themselves even further as the central arbiter of tradition and Bushido and be slated for future shogunates. With the Matchmaker's non-binding advice, she has concocted several tests to determine the mettle of the Corps.... and to perhaps glean a few worthy potential suitors at the same time.

However, Meikuko is not dismissive of claims of male inferiority her Matsu sisters often make. Privately, she looks forward to women taking part alongside men to have a comparison. Nor she would mind seeing married samurai proving their worth. If they prevail against their male unmarried counterparts, they can expect to be favoured by the future Lion Champion. However, raised in relative distrust toward shugenja, she is not appreciative of their tricks. Either way, she expects a turnout. If the Imperial Explorers don't prove themselves worthy to her in general, either by weak performance or by cowering from participation, she is likely to re-evaluate Lion support for the Corps.


---

Mechanics

  • Rolls outlined below have to be done in order, and each only once.
  • During the event, characters gather Meikuko's Expected Eligibility Points, or MEEP. Each basic success grants 1 MEEP, plus 1 MEEP for each successful Raise and for each rolling above the basic TN by an increment of 10. Failure grants 0 MEEP if it is within the increment of 5, -1 MEEP for each next 5 below the basic TN, and -1 MEEP for each failed Called Raise. Positive and negative MEEPs from each step should be added for one summary score.
  • The basic TN for all tests is 20. Player's use of rerolls in whatever form lessens the score by 1 MEEP.
  • The event can be abandoned at any point. The MEEP score up to the point of abandoning the event is still considered.
  • For the purpose of mechanics like Foreign Heritage Meikuko is considered Traditional.
  • Positive scores yield VIPs in the number of five times the number of MEEPs. In addition, each player that gathers 5 or more MEEPs has Meikuko's Favour: +100% to their VIP expenditure whenever they try to constructively involve the Lion Clan in it. Each player that gathers 10 or more MEEPs earns Meikuko as a 4/1 Ally. All effects are cumulative.
  • Negative scores yield no negative VIPs. However, each player that gathers -5 or less MEEPs has Meikuko's Displeasure: -50% to their VIP expenditure whenever they try to constructively involve the Lion Clan in it. Each player that gathers -10 or less MEEPs earns Meikuko's Retribution: she is deeply offended and becomes character's 5-Point Sworn Enemy as well as may take immediate actions that will end in character death; it will be resolved in a separate, role-played thread. All effects are cumulative. If in the course of the event Meikuko's Displeasure is earned twice, it adds up into Meikuko's Retribution.
  • The winner does not automatically become Meikuko's chosen betrothed. Not even close. Instead, the men out of top three scorers are considered if they're not married and presented to Miya Odorihime for further evaluation for their ultimate eligibility, but having their MEEP score multiplied by 10 instead of 5 in calculating VIPs. However, if two or more of those three are women and a man has not scored the best result or the one that has is married, Meikuko considers the endeavour a failure but otherwise feels well about feminine superiority being reaffirmed. Those top-scoring women have their MEEP score multiplied by 10 instead of 5 in calculating VIPs, and earn Meikuko as a 4/1 Ally even if they haven't met the original condition for it. In addition, the winner is able to sway Meikuko on the Tradition & Progress spectrum in preferred direction by one increment.
  • Detected use of any one Spell or a Shugenja Technique earns Meikuko's Displeasure, detected three uses of any Spell or a Shugenja Technique earn Meikuko's Retribution, regardless of whether casting succeeded or not. Shadowcasting is possible vs. TN35. Use of Tattoos and Kiho is not restricted.
  • Characters with Bad Fortune (Evil Eye) Disadvantage deduct 2 from every roll as Meikuko is distrustful of people touched by evil spirits or carrying bad karma.
  • The event happens in Murayasu's Dojo. It has to happen on-screen. Rolls and calculations are posted here, while related role-playing in the relevant thread in the Crescent Quarter section. If the rolls are made but no role-playing content is posted, this is considered a non-participation and the positive results are not considered. Negative results still take effect.

---

Tests
  • Test of Resilience. [Reflexes/Defence]. After sufficient warning that the training session won't be light, in a flurry of kensai-like motion Meikuko delivers calibrated strikes against you with shinai. Quick and Wary grant 1FR each. In case of failure, the competitor is hit for 5k1 damage, rerolled for a better of two results for each Crane or Dragon character as Meikuko isn't exactly above angst.
  • Test of Belligerence. [Agility/Kenjutsu, Agility/Spears, Agility/Polearms or Agility/Jiujutsu]. Now Meikuko dares you to strike back with a training melee weapon of your choice worthy of a samurai (with a Samurai keyword, a yari etc.), or with bare hands. Relevant emphases apply. For the purpose of Techniques and abilities this is considered a Combat Roll. Crab Hands and Great Potential (Chosen Weapon) grant 1FR each. Rolls 40+ are considered a hit for role-playing purposes and yield 2 additional MEEPs.
  • Test of Honour. [Intelligence/Lore: Values (Bushido) or Willpower/Etiquette (Conversation) or Awareness/Sincerity (Selected Emphasis*)] As the sparring continues, Meikuko has pressed on and asks you a question while staring into your soul with her implacable gaze. "What is [A Bushido Virtue] to you?" Anyone who has Paragon Advantage or Consumed Disadvantage for one of the Virtues of Bushido must choose it for the answer. Enlightened, at least one rank of Virtuous, Honour Rank 6.0+ or the relevant Paragon grant 1FR each. Gaijin Virtue other than Superiority and/or Consumed by Bushido Virtue deduct 5 from the roll. Consumed by a Gaijin Virtue deducts 10 from the roll. Effects are cumulative. Meikuko has a hidden preference for a certain type of answers; those that appeal to her may be discretionally rewarded with 5 VIP more by the GM (A good opportunity for role-playing).
    • Rolling Sincerity with Deceit Emphasis allows to nullify any and all penalties but it is considered as 'Lying to bolster your own reputation' for the purpose of Honour Loss and if it nevertheless fails the character immediately earns Meikuko's Displeasure, or Meikuko's Retribution if any Called Raises were assigned to the roll.
  • Test of Leadership. [Awareness/Perform: Oratory or Awareness/Perform: Song or Awareness/Acting or Awareness/Courtier (Rhetoric) or Awareness/Artisan: Poetry or Willpower/Intimidation (Control) or Awareness/Temptation (Seduction)] "And what if I were yours to command?" She raises her elegant brow, daring you in a predatory way that unintentionally sends shivers of anticipation down your spine, if you are attracted to women [Player's choice, but will be remembered]. You have your unique chance to impress her with how you inspire or assert control. Leadership and Great Potential (Chosen Skill) grant 1 FR each. Obtuse deducts 5 from the roll, while Lechery deducts 10 for those attracted as the thought of 'commanding' Meikuko activates a wet daydream. Use one of the Low Skills is considered 'Major Breach of Etiquette' and causes Meikuko's Displeasure if it fails.
  • Test of Fortitude. [Stamina/Athletics (Running) or Strength/Athletics (Climbing)] "Bah, you don't look like you can keep the pace!" She pays respects to the dojo and storms out, gesturing you to follow, setting an ungodly tempo. Following without paying your own respects would be a 'Minor Breach of Etiquette', but if you stop to do so, -5 is applied to the roll. She climbs one of the larger mounds behind the dojo as there seems to be something on top.
  • Test of Strategy. [Perception/Battle (Mass Battle) or Intelligence/Games: Go or Intelligence/Engineering (Siege) or Intelligence/Lore: Gaijin Cultures (Any Emphasis) or Intelligence/Sailing or Intelligence/Craft: Cartography] There is a Go Board, a map of the region on a portable table atop the mound, and a wide panorama of the city emerges before your eyes as Meikuko gestures you to turn around. "If the city was attacked by the gaijin, how would they do that? How would you defend it?" She is curious about the way you'd discuss offence and defence. Tactician grants 2FR. Bad Sight and Missing Eye deduct 5 if an Intelligence-based Roll is chosen as not all relevant data is discerned (They apply normally to Perception-based Roll).
  • Test of Commitment. [Willpower/Lore: Mathematics, Heraldry, History, Lion Clan or Values (Bushido), or Void/Meditation] "...with a Lion army, of course. Think like a Lion!" She intercedes at some point, expecting of you to fit yourself mentally into the role that may or may not be written for you in the future. Being a Lion, being schooled by the Lion, being Very Traditional/Traditional and Inner Gift: Empathy grant 1FR each. Being Progressive deducts 5, while being Very Progressive deducts 10 from the roll.

---

Results
Calculate your MEEPs and VIPs! GMs will rank them, and introduce the results at appropriate moments.

Once tests are done, Meikuko leads the gathering down the kofun, then deals squarely with potential offenders who's earned her retribution. Once this is done, she leaves the competitors after curt farewells, heading toward the Orange Blossom Estates to consult the Imperial Matchmaker on her findings about the candidates.



_________________
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Status: 7.5 | Glory: 5 | Honour: Soul Above Question
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Mon Oct 16, 2017 3:37 pm 
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Anzai had awoke early for the call of the bachelors to meet with the Lion Champion. He had chosen his most extravagant kimono for it, as well as ensuring his mask was affixed. Rested, he felt ready to test his mettle. While he personally didn't feel as though he would want to risk being betrothed to the Lion Champion, it was more out of Duty to the Explorers Corps. If they had as poor a showing here as they had during the commanding of the teppodoka...

As she approached him with her shinai, Anzai bowed to her first, before raising his own.

Test of Resilience:
Test of Resilience (Reflexes 3, Defense 1, TN20): 4d10o10k3 17
subtract 2 due to Evil eye. Total is 15. Failed. Take 5k1 damage

Damage:
Taking 5k1 damage from failing Test of Resilience: 5d10o10k1 4

The Scorpion courtier grunted as the wooden bokken came down hard on his shoulder. His teeth gritted through the pain, his evil eye glimmering beneath his mask. He could sense her distrust of him, and he wasn't particularly enjoying his performance so far, but he was not one known to quit any activity he was already engaged in.

Test of Belligerence
Bringing his own shinai up, he pressed his own attack...
Test of Belligerence (Agility 2, untrained, TN 20): 2d10k2 10 Minus 2 total is 8. Failedd

And was easily deflected. He wasn't a warrior, he was a courtier! Why would he bother with his part, but it was the task laid before him. He offered a small smile to Akodo-sama, keeping his shinai readied in a defensive posture. Then her lips curled, and she asked him..

Test of Honor
"What is Duty to you?" Pressing on her attack, he brought his shinai up. Conversation was more his strong suit...

Test of Honor (Awareness 4, Sincerity 4, no emphasis used, 1FR for Bayushi courtier 1, calling 1 raise, TN 25, -2 evil eye): 8d10o10k4-2 50 Passed, 2 raises, 2 increments of 10 greater than TN, total 5 MEEPs

"Duty is loyalty to one's clan!" He struck forward, punctuating his words with a smack by his shinai against hers. "To one's family! To one's spouse! Duty is everything. Without it, every other tenet falls apart. We are nothing without our duty. What good is honor if one has no drive!" He flourished the shinai, before watching her press her attack onwards. His feet were clumsy, but he danced backwards to continue.

"What good is sincerity if there is nothing to bind it to? Nothing but empty words. Duty, above all else, is what drives a Samurai, a Spouse, a Leader forwards, for the betterment of their Clan and family! Compassion? Without that duty to serve other men, it is weakness. Courage? Requires Duty to find the will to act! Courtesy? We are duty bound to respect each other, otherwise, there is no point! Honesty? It is our Duty to our Emperor that keeps us honest..." That last bit spoken with a bit of a smirk, yet he counterbalanced, pivoting to parry the dance. The focus was completely on his words. "Duty is what drives men to action, and through that duty, we better serve all..."

His words were filled with sincerity, surprising even him. After all, didn't Scorpion always tell lies? Maybe that's why it was so dangerous when they spoke the truth.

Test of Leadership

Then her elegant brow was raised, her lips curled. Anzai focused on her form, a slight flush to his cheeks now. He had noticed how beautiful she was. Then the words she spoke...

"And if I were yours to command..." Oh the thoughts that passed through his mind as those sweet, little words escaped those pretty lips. The thoughts of silk bindings keeping this Lion close to this Scorpion. His miscolored eyes gazing into hers as...

Oh. Oh my...

He could envision the shoulders of her kimono slipping off... perhaps something to tie around her neck...

His hands were unsteady on the shinai as he found himself watching her a little too closely, before his own lips curled to a less than wholesome smile.
Test of Leadership (Awareness 4, Courtier 6, 1FR from Bayushi Courtier, calling 1 raise, Benten's Blessing +1k0, Courtier Mastery 5 +1k0, TN is 25, -2 evil eye, -10 lechery): 10d10o10k5-12 40 Passed, 2 raises, 1 increment of 10 above TN, total 4 MEEPs earned

"I would court you, use my... tongue... to elevate you through my own leadership amongst our people. Pretty words, but truthful, to you. For we would be duty bound, together. And with those little words, I'd have you help me with my own goals, and I with yours. If you were mine to command... you would be very happy indeed..." The shinai battle stopped, and again, a respectful bow.

He was still flushed as crimson as his kimono.

Test of Fortitude
"Bah! You don't look like you can keep the pace!" Anzai watched as she paid respect to the dojo before running after her. His eyes went wide as she took off at an ungodly pace. Without paying respect to the dojo, he ran off after her.

Test of Fortitude (Stamina 3, Spending VP to have 1 rank in athletics to avoid unskilled penalty, TN20, -2 evil eye): 4d10o10k3-2 3 Failed, minor breach of etiquette.

And he was winded! Even digging deep into his own belief in himself, he simply could not keep up. Halfway up the mound, he stopped running, cursing himself inwardly in Merenaese. Fanning himself, he could tell she had spent some time waiting for him to catch up.

Test of Strategy
Even if she was impatient, she didn't show it. Instead, she gestured for him to turn around, looking over the various laid out props, as well. "If the city was attacked by the gaijin, how would they do that? How would you defend it?"

Using his powers of perception, he also looked deep within himself, trying to discern the best avenues for it.
Test of Strategy (Perception 3, spending VP for 1 skill rank in mass battle, TN 20, -2 evil eye): 4d10o10k3-2 30 Passed, 1 full increment of 10 above TN, 2 MEEPs earned

"There is a choke point coming from the wharf. I would funnel the gaijin in through there..." He pointed out to the area he was speaking. "Laying traps and barriers, to slow their advance, while having specialists hidden in the buildings there and there, behind them. Cut off their leadership from behind, leaving the troops in disarray, to be picked off by archers here..." another sweeping gesture, "... and here. Thinning their ranks before they even met the main defenses in the city center." He grinned, looking to her.

Then she shook her head, staring at him. "... with a Lion army, of course. Think like a Lion!" Anzai considered. He never wanted to be a Lion. If anything, he'd try to have his betrothed come into the Scorpion. He was a Scorpion, through and through. Yet here he was.

Centering himself, he closed his eyes, again looking deep within...
Test of Commitment (Void 3, 1 VP spent to gain 1 skill in Meditation, TN20-2): 4d10o10k3 18 -2 for evil eye is 16, -5 for being progressive is 11. Failed.

"I cannot think like a Lion because I am not a Lion, Akodo-sama. I am Scorpion. If you remember the parable of the Lion and the Scorpion... He stung the lion twice before the conversation even noticed. I would use a Scorpion army to fulfill my defense, and the city would survive. I would do what needed to be done, without any posturing." He bowed deeply to her, before looking up. "This morning has been a real pleasure, and honor, Akodo-sama."

Totals:
6 MEEPs earned, 30 VIP, Meikoku's Favour earned


Last edited by Shosuro Anzai on Mon Oct 16, 2017 9:56 pm, edited 1 time in total.


_________________
Honor: Honorless Dog, Status: 2, Glory: 5.8 - Reputation: 5.2 - Benten's Blessing - Dangerous Beauty - Lechery - Evil Eye - Unlucky 1 - Language (Merenae, Mekhem) - Darling of the Court (West Port) - Courtier - Scorpion - "The Rose Whisperer"
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Mon Oct 16, 2017 6:57 pm 
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"It's every samurai's Duty to do what is best for their clan and family," Keiji said carefully. His shoulder still stung a little from the Akodo princess's strike, but he was careful not to show it. "Even when what is expected by the clan is not in one's personal interest; especially at those times, in fact. Personal considerations are nothing when compared to the welfare of the clan."

"As for how I would command Akodo-sama, were such a responsibility given to me," he continued. "It would be to lead her into battle, as befits a true Lion samurai." And at this, Keiji broke into song:
Traditional Lion Clan Song! wrote:
In the battle, the mighty battle
The Lion attacks tonight
In the battle, the deadly battle
The Lion attacks tonight!

A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh....

The song went on in this vein for some time, before Meikuko interrupted the musical interlude with a "Catch me if you can!" and bolted out of the dojo. Pausing to bow to the senior sensei, Keiji exited the dojo in pursuit of the elusive princess, easily catching up as they ascended to the top of the hill.

"An interesting tactical problem," Keiji said, examining the maps atop the battle table. Drawing out an ink brush, he dipped it into the ink. "Let me just draw out where I would place my troops. Here, here and...ooops!" The young Lion's sleeve knocked over the ink well, spilling black ink all over the map. "And here, where I would launch my troops into a human wave attack that would wash over the enemy, just as performed by Matsu Takiko in the eastern campaign of 469," Keiji concluded, in an attempt to save face as the pool of ink spread to cover most of the map. The princess was unable to hide a look of amusement.

--
Resilience with no raises, Defense 19 missed TN20, 9 damage (void point to reduce damage to 0), 0 MEEP
Belligerence with no raises, Kenjutsu 14 missed TN20 by more than 5, -1 MEEP
Honor with 2 raises (1 is free), Lore: Values 27 hits TN25, +3 MEEPs, chosen virtue is Duty
Leadership with no raises, Perform: Song 20 hits TN20, +1 MEEP
Fortitude with no raises, paying respects to dojo, Athletics 34 hits TN20 by more than 10, +2 MEEPs
Strategy with 2 raises, Craft: Cartography 21 missed TN30 by more than 5 (urgh!), -3 MEEPs
Commitment with 1 free raise to lower TN, 1 free raise for effect, Lore: History 20 hits TN15, +2 MEEPs

Total: 4 MEEPs, 20 VIPs

Edit: changed the date of the made-up Lore: History factoid


Last edited by Kitsu Keiji on Mon Oct 16, 2017 8:15 pm, edited 1 time in total.


_________________
Lion Clan Samurai • Imperial Explorer • Captain of Kunshu Maru • Famous • Voice • Leadership
Status 4.0 (Ship Captain) • Glory 7.2 (amazing naval officer) • Reputation 4.3 (naval commander, battle of Skull Island) • Honor: Exceptional
Sturdy clothing, daisho, traveling pack, drafting tools
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Mon Oct 16, 2017 7:49 pm 
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Joined: Mon Sep 18, 2017 6:24 pm
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Edogawa didn't want to be in the dojo, but he knew it was expected of him, even after yesterday's misfortune. He was able to show some combat prowess, but nothing else would impress the Lion after that. He talked of duty and strategy and tried to do everything expected of him, but he fell short of the Akodo's standards in many ways. At least he didn't embarrass himself as horribly as the day before.

Tests
Test of Resilience
EM1, Survival, Test of Resilience, Defense/Reflex TN20: 5d10o10k3 31 2 MEEP

Test of Belligerence
EM1, Survival, Test of Belligerence, Kenjutsu/Agility TN20, Reincarnated: 5d10o10k3 32 2 MEEP

Test of Honour
EM1, Survival, Test of Honour, Awareness/Sincerity, Foriegn Heritage, TN 25: 5d10o10k3 20 0 MEEP

Test of Leadership
EM1, Survival, Test of Leadership, Awareness/Courtier (Rhetoric), Foreign Heritage, TN 25: 6d10r1o10k3 20 0 MEEP

Test of Fortitude
EM1, Survival, Stamina/Athletics TN 20, Reincarnated: 4d10o10k2 15 0 MEEP, Minor Breach of Etiquette (Forgot to adjust roll for respects)

Test of Strategy
EM1, Survival, Test of Strategy, Intelligence/Sailing, Int Based, TN 25, Explorer Tech, Reincarnated: 8d10o10k3 21 0 MEEP

Test of Commitment
EM1, Survival, Willpower/Lore: Heraldry, Very Progressive, Fukurokujin's Curse , TN 35, Explorer's Tech: 6d10o10k2 33 0 MEEP

Results
4 MEEP, 20 VIP, -.2 Honor



_________________
Imperial Explorer Captain of Yamato Maru Naval College Foreign Resources Administrator Chief Shipwright Remarkable Mariner Craftsman Navigator Odd Looks Cursed Deranged Soul of Teodoro Cornejo
Status: 4 | Glory: 5 | Infamy: 2 | Honor: Exceptional | Reputation: 1 | Notoriety: 1

Carries: Wakizashi, Rapier, Tools
Speaks: Rokugani, Merenaese, Thranish, Sign
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Mon Oct 16, 2017 8:09 pm 
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Hinami went to the dojo as a sign of complete devotion to the Imperial line. Akodo Meikuko-sama was making a bold move here, declaring her support, for Hantei Jama's-no-kimi voyage. As part of the family that protects the most sacred family in the realm, and as a trained courtier of another of the most devoted families it was expected that she would show that supporting Hantei's legacy is the correct and only way. Failure today was not an option.

Hinami was dressed with her favorite furisode and purple hakama. Although she though about the possibility of fighting, Hinami was a courtier, and she appeared here as such. When it was her turn to be judged by the Lioness her heart and soul was ready. Her eyes were fixed on Meikuko's own, clearly showing Hinami's soul resolve.

She bowed gracefully to the Lioness as was expected from a courtier. Shinai in her hands. Meikuko's first attack was powerful and skillful, afterall she is the descendant of centuries of traditions, in her shoulders rested Akodo's-no-kami legacy and the fate of the Lion clan. Most people probably thought this was going to be such a one sided match, right? How will be a moody, little, spoiled girl beat a hardened Rikugunshokan.

But something incredible happened. Hinami's resolve and spirit was flowing through her, and Meikuko was not the only one that had a legacy on her shoulders, the lioness was not the only one defending the honor of hundreds of ancestors, she was not the only one that carried the weight of fate. Hinami was a direct descendant of Lady Seppun, the first who kneeled, the first and most beloved follower of the kami. For the next seconds the inner fire of Hinami woke up and she was the manifestation of hundreds of valiant souls that carried their duty to the Son of Heavens without question or second thoughts.

The Seppun maiden skillfully parried Meikuko's attack. The whole dojo went silent. Lady Meikuko then asked the Seppun girl to choose a sparring samurai weapon.

Hinami was no bushi. To pick a katana would not be appropiate, so she chose a sparring wakizashi. In the next seconds few people could believe what their eyes were seeing. The 'spoiled' princess went right on against the veteran bushi, without flinching, there was nothing to fear since she carried the Seppun name. Even Meikuko probably was surprised by the ferocity tempered with duty that Hinami was showing and finally after a few seconds of strikes, parries and counter-strikes, Hinami overwhelmed Meikuko's defence. This was beyond belief. Maybe some people would wonder why Hinami was trained by the Otomo and not by the Seppun themselves. Why was not she part of the Miharu?

The spar continued and now Meikuko's gaze tried to see through Hinami's soul, looking for her defects and failures. Hinami felt the intensity of the Lioness and her passion to the code of Bushido, yet as the Lioness asked her question, Hinami, remembered her past mistakes, she remembered what Agasha Utsusemi-san said to her...

'' True Nobility comes not from being superior to another man, but from being superior to your past...'' She said calmly. While Hinami still didn't understood completely what those words meant, she at least understood that if she wanted to become a truly devoted servant to the Hantei she needed to first understood herself and correct her own mistakes. That was what she learned from Utsusemi-san, that were the teachings of Shinsei.

"And what if I were yours to command?" Meikuko asked with such an intense fire that even Hinami's On wavered for a fraction of a second. There was a hint of a blush in her features, but the Seppun maiden would not be defeated so easily.

'' What if you were mine to command, Akodo-sama? If you were ~mine~, if your destiny would depend on ~my~ shoulders, then it is my duty to make yourself better than you are today. That is the duty an officer has to his soldiers and servants, to make themselves better, to make them walk the path of self improvement, to make their souls shine and burn like the purest of Amaterasu's-no-kami rays of light. Because my men and women are a reflection of my own soul. If they fail, it is only a reflection of my own failures...I will make you show the best of you'' She said with complete and utter devotion as now Hinami's own gaze got through Meikuko's soul.

Perhaps Hinami did understood Shinsei's words afterall, or maybe she felt something about Meikuko's virtues and somehow the Lioness' feelings entered in harmony with her own soul.

With those last words, Hinami bowed gracefully once again to the Lioness. There were no more words to say. She took two steps backwards and then turned around. As she walked away, for a fragment of a moment, she turned her face to look again at the lioness and offered her a slight warm smile.



********************

[OOC-Rolls]

1) Reflexes/Defence; +1k0 Prodigy - 23 |Pass [TN20]
  • +1 MEEP
  • +5 VIPs

2) Kenjutsu/Agility - 42 |Pass [TN20]
  • +5 MEEPs (1 Basic, 2 Increments of 10 Basic TN, 2 Aditionals for +40 hit)
  • +25 VIPs

3) Sincerity/Awareness; +1k0 Prodigy; +0k1 Benten's; -5 Failure of Bushido - 31 |Pass [TN30; 2CR]
  • +4 MEEPs (1 Basic, 1 by Increments of 10 Basic TN, 2 Called Raises)
  • +20 VIPs

4) Courtier/Awareness; +1k0 Prodigy; +0k1 Benten's; +1k1 Inner Gift: Empathy - 42 |Pass [TN30; 2CR]
  • +5 MEEPs (1 Basic, 2 by Increments of 10 Basic TN, 2 Called Raises)
  • +25 VIPs

Stopped honorably at this point


TOTALS
+15 MEEPs
+75 VIPs
+Meikuko's Favor
+Ally [Akodo Meikuko] (4/1)


Last edited by Seppun Hinami on Tue Oct 17, 2017 7:13 am, edited 18 times in total.


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Honor: What is Expected|Glory: 3.9|Reputation: 2.7|Notoriety: 1.8|Infamy: 0.0|Status: 5.0

Languages: Rokugani
Carries: Traditional Clothing, Extravagant Furisode (Usually), Extravagant Jūnihitoe (Very Formal), Wakizashi, Tanto, Calligraphy Set, Personal Chop, Exquisite Jade Pendant
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Mon Oct 16, 2017 8:14 pm 
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It would be fun to see the young men try to impress the Akodo heiress, Utsusemi thought as she joined the many hopefuls in the dojo, dressed in simple garments herself because it felt out of place to dress up in a place like this.

So she was a little surprised when Meikuko was practically encouraging the women too to show off. Oh well, I suppose it couldn't hurt, right? How wrong she would be.

Having barely taken her stance with the wooden weapon, Meikuko hit her hard, leaving the Crane-Dragon little time to react. The only thing Utsusemi could do was to roll with the blow as the air got knocked out of her, as she poorly raised her own weapon to stave off the Lioness.

As the girl continued to press the advantage, she began to question the older woman's honor and belief in Bushido. Cool as a cucumber, she managed to reply at least. "There is no great virtue than Honor, for it is the virtue that unites the six others. For what is Duty, Compassion, Courtesy, Courage, Sincerity, and Honesty, without Honor to guide them? And do they not all in the end lead to Honor? It is after all, those who are without Honor, who give up on these virtues."

At least the answer seemed to be better recieved than she had expected of the young Akodo. "And, if you were my Honorable lord, how would you command me?"

Utsusemi paused. The question was absolutely ridiculous, she felt, as if the girl was somehow making a flirtatious move on her. Perhaps it was an answer she could best give in more flowery prose instead, to subtly hide how silly she thought it was, but... well, by now she was already speechless, and it was noticeable.

"Truly, I do not think I could command you, Akodo-sama," she said bluntly after an awkward pause of silence.

Probably very displeased with the answer, Meikuko stomped off, and Utsusemi looked on with some disgust at the poor manners shown by the girl. No, she was not going to run after her in some undignified manner. So she paid her respects to the dojo, and respectfully placed the practice-weapon back in its place, before finding a place to sit and relax.

----

D1 EVENT EM Defense/Reflexes vs Meikuko. Void for skill. TN 20: 3d10o10k2 14
0 Meep

D1 EVENT EM Damage from Meikuko. Best of two because she hates me: 2#5d10o10k1 9 11
Second Void to reduce damage to 1. No penalties

D1 EVENT EM Polearms/Agility. Untrained TN 20: 3d10 5
-1 Meep

D1 EVENT EM Etiquette/Willpower. Doji Courtier FR+Honor rank 6 FR (1 for +5, 1 for effect). TN 20: 5d10o10k2+5 27
+2 Meep

D1 EVENT EM Poetry/Awareness. +1k1 Void. 5 raises. TN 45: 10d10o10k6 38
-6 Meep


Total: -5 Meep! Meikuko's Displeasure: -50% to their VIP expenditure whenever they try to constructively involve the Lion Clan in it.



_________________
Dragon Clan • Waifu • Poet • Sensational Artisan • Chadō Master • Courtier • Imperial Chaperone • Second Officer of the Kunshu Maru • Healer
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Honour: Exceptional • Status: 5.0 • Glory: 5.1 (Lady of the Golden Moon's Words)
Faith: Exceptional • Status: 4.0 • Reputation: 2.7 (Lady Uxue)
Languages: Rokugani, Merenaese
Has: Wakizashi, flute, notebook (new), small knife, satchel (contains medicine kit and paint supplies).
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Mon Oct 16, 2017 8:49 pm 
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It wasn't long before Kenzo found himself facing the young, formidable Lion. And facing, certainly had a literal meaning, as they picked up weapons.

Kenzo smiled, nodding as she gave him her warning. "Of course, I understand. A good policy. It wouldn't do to-"

WHACK!!!

Kenzo staggered back, the heavy blow staggering him. Straight down, a fine overhead strike; a twist at the last second made him take it on the collar instead of the face. Wincing, he considered that the face might have been a better choice. "Oh." He murmured. "It's on."

It was not on.

In a stunning display of swordsmanship, Kenzo managed to... fail again and again to hit the Akodo. He could see the contempt rising in her eyes.

Ah, but this was a question he knew how to answer! "Ah!" Kenzo said, brightening as his attack was deflected yet again. "The pursuit of knowledge is the grandest of virtues. It is only by examining the world around us, using proper scientific process, that we can gain a greater understanding of things. Indeed, I would like to recommend to you a book, A Study of Nature. It's written by a gaijin, actually..." Her eyes widened at the last, but he spoke with such enthusiasm that she seemed to at least respect his conviction.

The next question briefly threw him off. Kenzo's eyes glinted momentarily, but after a sidelong glance, he straightened. "Ummm... that is, how would I command you? Yes, quite. Well, ah..." Like a bird! No, damnit, he needed to find some other metaphors. The pause stretched onward. He could almost see Meikuko's eyes roll.

It was fortunate, perhaps, that Kenzo recognized what was about to happen when she commented on his stamina. "Perhaps you're right." He said sharply, stopping her run from the room. He bowed respectfully, gathering the tattered shreds of his dignity around him. "Good day, Akodo-sama." He said.

And that was that.

-------------------------------------------------

SotME: Test of Resilience, ref/def/ VP spent: 5d10o10k4 17 - 0 points
SotME: Test of Resilience, WHACK: 2#5d10o10k1 4 19 - 19 damage!
SotME: Test of Belligerence, ken(katana)/agi, 2 CR, VP spent, TN30: 7d10ro1o10k4 27 -2 MEEPS
SotME: Test of Honor,etiquette/sta, enlightened and consumed! Using fr for effect: 5d10o10k3-5 21 -1 MEEPS
SotME: Test of Leadership, Artisan:poetry/aware, unskilled: 3d10k3 13 -2 MEEPS, please stop Orokos, I can't take it anymore!



_________________
Dragon | Bushi | Famed Naturalist! | Infamous Scoundrel! | Loves Animals | Naturalist-at-Arms
Status: 2.0 | Glory: 4.9 | Infamy: 1.0 | Reputation: 2.0 | Honor: As Expected
Languages: Rokugani, Yobanjin
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Sturdy clothing, daisho, traveling pack, ink brush kit, fan. Pistols when not ridiculously inappropriate.

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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Mon Oct 16, 2017 9:01 pm 
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Hikari decided to step in for the hell of it; after watching her sister get in a surprise hit that was. When the flurry of strikes aimed at her, the Jade magistrate weaved in and out of their path. Like the monkey princess some people had taken to call her. She then followed up with a quick strike of her own, a decent enough effort even if the bushi proved narrowly capable of avoiding it. Oh well, sometimes her sister was the luckier one.

"What is Duty to you?"; the question popped up seemingly out of nowhere when postures relaxed.

Meanwhile, Hikari was so quick in retrieving the piece of hard candy; from one of the containers she always kept at her side; that one might argue she'd have impressed far more had she used that in the sparring match. And she popped it into her mouth with a big grin sent the Lion's way.

"Oh ya know," crunch... munch... "Duty's in the eye of the beholder."

She though she was just making a little joke to lighten the mood. Lions could be so dull sometimes; but it didn't seem to do what it was supposed to, and Hikari could tell. So she decided to call it quits, giving the girl a light bow before going to the sidelines to watch the others have a go at it... and eat some more candy.


Reflexes/Defense, VOID, TN20: 5d10o10k3 33 +2 MEEP
Agility/Jiujutsu, 1 raise, TN25: 6d10o10k4 36 +3 MEEP
Intelligence/Lore: Values (sage), 1 called raise, 1 FR (honor), TN25: 5d10o10k4 13 -2 MEEP

Bowing out

3 total, +15VIP




_________________
Imperial • Kuge • Shugenja • (Junior) Jade Magistrate • Happy-go-Lucky • Glutton • Sage • Wealthy • Cursed • The Amazing Monkey Princess: Saruhime
Status: 4.0 | Glory: 2.9 | Reputation: 1 | Notoriety: 2.0 (crazy fire witch) | Honour: Exceptional
Carries: Scroll Satchel, Wakizashi, Jade, Snacks, 2 small statuettes
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Mon Oct 16, 2017 10:02 pm 
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The Yogo appeared mainly because it amused her. She had no desire to marry such a woman and thankfully the air kami thought it best not to push them together either. She flashed a grin when it was her turn and took up her practice weapon.

Meikoku's blow was fiercer than any spar the priestess had encountered before. She blinked from the blow and scurried to assume her stance. The redhead imagined herself set ablaze and went in for her own flurry. Though unsuccessful in landing a blow, it seemed that the Akodo was pleased by the shugenja's display of fury.

The next question was a low blow. "What is Honour to you?"

"An illusion," the Scorpion stated with a wry grin, though clearly the Lioness was not impressed.

"Is that so? Then what if I were yours to command?"

Is she... what? I suppose I should not be surprised, after all she let me come and... um...Akarei took a breath and suppressed the flushing going through her veins. She removed her mask and stared the woman before her straight in the eyes. "Remember what I said about Honour? What I would demand would be disgraceful and yet I would make sure you'd listen." She let out a low chuckle. "I would make sure you enjoyed it."

The Akodo did not show any displeasure from the display, despite the blatancy of it. She instead challenged the Yogo on her endurance and ran off. And the priestess followed, paying no heed to any 'tradition' when a race was to be won. If she had stopped, then she would not have made it.

At the Go table, Akarei shrugged and analyzed the terrain based on the map provided to her. She gave a detailed report on how to defend the city. "But what if you were a Lion?"

"Then I would not be the same person." With that, the redhead gave a respectful bow and departed.

---

Test of Resilience:
D1 EM Defense/Reflexes TN 20: 3d10o10k2 12
D1 EM Damage from Failed Defense: 5d10o10k1 18
-1 MEEP

18/21 (Nicked)
Strength of the Earth removes the penalty.

Test of Belligerence:
D1 EM Kenjutsu/Agility TN 20: 6d10o10k3 32
2 MEEP

Test of Honour:
D1 EM Etiquette/Willpower TN 20: 4d10o10k3 11
-1 MEEP

Test of Leadership:
D1 EM Intimidation/Willpower TN 25, 1 CR, VP Spent: 5d10o10k4 34
2 MEEP
-0.1 for Low Skill

Test of Fortitude:
Not Paying Respects. Honor penalty does nothing to me.
D1 EM Athletics/Stamina TN 20: 4d10o10k3 20
1 MEEP

Test of Strategy:
D1 EM Craft: Cartography/Intelligence TN 20: 7d10o10k4 37
2 MEEP

Test of Commitment:
Nope! Cashing out.

Total:
5 MEEP. Earn Meikoku's Favor and 25 VIP.


Last edited by Yogo Akarei on Mon Oct 16, 2017 11:32 pm, edited 1 time in total.


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Scorpion | Vassal (Tansaku) | Jade Yoriki | Diviner (Astrology) | Blessed by Fire | The "Flame of Piety" | First Officer of the Yamato Maru
Status: 3.0 | Glory: 3.0 | Honor: Honorless Dog
Languages: Rokugani
General Theme | Stargazing Theme | Battle Theme

Typically Carries: Robes, Mask, Fan, Wakizashi, Knife, Scroll Satchel, Divination Kit, Paper Wards
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Mon Oct 16, 2017 11:18 pm 
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The Suzume was already feeling rather sour about the Lion after the previous day, so when he was forced to parade himself about for a Lioness who had the luck he never did, he didn't come with the best attitude.

As she began to swing at him, he avoided the strikes calmly, stepping around them and keeping his expression bland. His counterattack was ambitious, going for the side of her neck, but for a moment their eyes met, and he found himself hesitating just long enough for her to slide away from the strike.

Damn.

When she began to question him, he tried to discuss it, but was still so angry with himself that his replies were curt, and less courteous than they could have been, without being properly insulting. "Honor is the second of two blades, carried by some, but sadly forgotten by others."

When she asked how he would command her, again he remembered how their eyes had met, and he felt a shiver down his spine, but still answered, honestly and without concern, "I would not waste your talents."

Then she turned and fled, and he paused at the shrine to offer his own respects, cursing internally. His attempts to make it up the hill were ruined when a false step sent him sliding backward, delaying his ascent noticeably.

The game likewise, was colored by his frustration, with him only making the simplest approach. To defend the city would be simple, you'd fortify key positions, draw them onto the shore, and then wipe them out. He did a decent job of it, but not his best.

Finally, she asked him to think like a Lion, so he said, simply, "Well, then I guess I'd just annex the city and crush anyone who complained, just to be sure."

That almost made her furious, but instead he was able to depart with her being simply angry.

-----------

Test of Resilience: Passed, http://orokos.com/roll/559133 ----> 1 MEEP
Test of Belligerence: 1 Raise: Orokos, Please... http://orokos.com/roll/559137 ----> -1 MEEP
Test of Honor: Free raise: Orokos stop. http://orokos.com/roll/559143 ----> -1 MEEP
Test of Leadership: passed... http://orokos.com/roll/559145 ----> 1 MEEP
Test of Fortitude, paying respects: http://orokos.com/roll/559147 ----> -2 MEEP
Test of Strategy: passed... http://orokos.com/roll/559150 ----> 1 MEEP
Test of Commitment: Progressive Penalty: Orokos finishes the tour-de-force: ----> -3 MEEP

TOTAL: -4 MEEP



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Sparrow Clan :: Kuge :: Disinherited :: Bushi :: Armchair-Daimyo :: Magistrate :: 'Agent of Justice' :: Captain of the Space Battleship Yamato
Status: 4.0 Glory: 2.6 Honor: Exceptional
Carries: Daisho, Fan, faded Haori, sake cup

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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Tue Oct 17, 2017 2:30 am 
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Strike for strike only Kaiya's was not a proper hit. Leaving herself with a slightly wounded wrist, one that would have been far worse of a strike if she hadn't forced herself into a better position at the last second and a more greatly wounded ego.

"What is Honor to you?"

Kaiya took a step back and bowed deeply to the woman before her. Rising back to her full height she revealed a white ribbon she had pulled from her sleeve. Tying the cloth around her arm and starting from the palm of her hand up past her sleeve underneath. Looking back up she locked eyes with the Heir she shared the floor with and bowed once again, deeply. Calling a close to her efforts she saw away her bokken before collecting Sakia and paying respects to the Dojo before she made her exit.

Rolls:

Test of Resilience: 17 vs 20, Failed
Damage Roll: 17
Void damage -10, 7.

Test of Belligerence: 21 vs 30, Failed.
Re-roll: 31 vs 30, Passed.

Test of Honor: 19 vs 20, Failed.

2 Meeps, 10 VIP, 7 Damage, 1 Luck Used, 2 Void used.



_________________
Imperial - Kakita - Bushi - Duelist - Hero of the People - Mute - Sacrosanct - Imperial Explorer
Status: 3.0 | Glory: 7.0 | Honor: Exceptional
Carries: Daisho, Flute, Jade Necklace
Language: Sign, Mekhem
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Tue Oct 17, 2017 6:20 am 
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Test of Resilience: Yasuhiro's has at least a small idea of what Akodo-dono has in mind for today's activities, if a lion invites you to a dojo after all, there will be a fight. Which is why he didn't dress in anythign fancy, but rather a simple kimono made for physical activity. He was not surprised when Meikuko's takes the offensive, and he skillfully blocks and dodges her attacks letting few if any past his defenses.

Test of Belligerence: Her defenses prove to be better then his own skills with a sword, he does put n a impressive display of skill though, and once or twice he comes close to touching Meikuko, in the end though his skills fall short.

Test of Honor: Honor, it was something close to the heart of most lion. When she ask him what duty meant to him, it was a interesting question and after a moments pause he spoke, with a rather amazing amount of poise, at least for him. "Duty is putting my clan and the Empire first in all things. I train every day to try and be of more use to my clan, my marriage when it comes, will be to someone that will aid the lion. It's to give of myself to aid the whole. It's always serve, no matter the consequences."

Test of Leadership: It was the next question though that caught him off guard, and Yasuhiro nearly lost his on a a slight blush appeared on his cheeks. It took him a few moments to put himself back together and a brief comment from his grandmother to get him talking. Don't go thinking about trying to push her down, Boy. He tried to summon the same level of poise as he spoke, but he didn't manage, and his speech was rather lacking in all regards. "In all honesty I could never imagine a moment where I might command you Akodo-dono, if such a time were to ever come though... I suppose I'd have to do what I could to draw out all your capabilities."

Test of Fortitude: As she stormed out, Yasuhiro didnt pause to pay his respects to the dojo before moving to follow, he managed to keep pace with her, though it was tough and eventually they arrived at the top of the hill.

Test of Strategy: The board before him caused him to pause, and examine it for a few moments. He was a solid strategist being trained by the Akodo, and his time with the marines had taught him a few things about Gaijin tactics. His answer wasn't revolutionary, but it held important insights into his training and the type of officer he might become in the future.

Test of Commitment: Thinking like a Lion was of course second nature to Yasuhiro, despite the time he had spent training with the Marines and at his School, he was still Lion to the core. His initial strategy had been with a Lion army in mind, and it took little effort to sell that point to Meikuko.

----------
Rolls

Test of Resilience - SotME ToR defense/reflexes +1k0 explorers tn 20: 6d10o10k4 47 = 3 MEEP's

Test of Belligerence - SotME ToB kenjutsu/agility +1k0 explorers tn 20 1fr crab hands 1 fr akodo 1 +1k0 akodo 1 void for 1k1: 7d10o10k4 36 = 4 MEEP's

Test of Honor - SotME ToH etiquette/willpower tn 20+5 from DC FR for +5: 4d10o10k3+5 35 = 2 MEEP's

Test of Leadership - SotME ToL awareness/preform oratory tn 20+5 from DC void for 1k1: 3d10 23 = 0 MEEP's

Test of Fortitude - SotME ToF athletics/stamina +1k0 from explorer tn 20: 6d10o10k3 24 = 1 MEEP'S

Test of Strategy - SotME ToS Battle (mass battle)/perceptio. +1k0 from explorer tn 20: 7d10ro1o10k3 43 = 3 MEEP's

Test of Commitment - SotME ToC Lore [history]/willpower. tn 20 1 fr from lion 1fr from lion school 1 fr traditional 1fr to add +5 to roll 2 for effect: 4d10o10k3+5 27 = 3 MEEP's

Total MEEP's = 16
VIP = 80
Meikuko's Favor
Gain Akodo Meikuko as a ally at 4/1
Minor breach of etiquette. (Noticed I misread it)


Last edited by Matsu Yasuhiro on Thu Oct 19, 2017 6:58 pm, edited 1 time in total.


_________________
Lion Clan | Bushi | Archer | Shireikan | Naval College | Blessed | Explorer | Disturbing | Proven Marksman | Jinn Touched

Honor: Exceptional | Status: 6.0 | Glory: 4.4| Infamy: 1.0 | Reputation: 1.7 | Notoriety: 1.1

Carries: Daisho, Kimono, Finger of Jade
When allowed: Yumi, Light Armor

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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Wed Oct 18, 2017 10:11 am 
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Tori rises bright and early, with many of the other explorers, to heed the call of Lady Meikuko. Tales of her beauty had travelled far and wide, and while Tori had originally only come to observe the other explorers, she can't resist the opportunity to get a little closer.

It is unlikely a woman raised by pacifists, trained by politicians, and commanded by merchants much of her life will impress, but sometimes the will to prevail means more than talent.

The beginning, though, is the hardest part. Never truly trained past the barest basics of combat, she is utterly unsuited to the task. Still, she elects to face Meikuko with the available weapon she has the most actual training with.

None.

Part of the limited martial training afforded one trained by the Doji is the most fundamental rudiments of Mizu-do, meant as much as an introduction to dance and stage acting as an actual martial technique, but still, she tries.

Her opponent has the clear advantage in reach, both in size and in her weapon, so clearly, the only effective choice if she is to impress is to close the distance, to get inside the effective range of her weapon. Unfortunately, getting there leads to a few sharp cracks from a shinai; but she does not relent.

As the Crane gets in, the nearness of the Lion begins to get to her. It's almost disturbing how motivating commanded to put her hands on the Lion can be. Actually attacking her opponent was never part of her education, but she begins to see the faintest glimpse of the flows of energy Mizu-do is meant to command, and uses a sequence of blows meant to restrict her opponent's movement and guide her to one true strike.

A tactic that the Lion easily evades, withdrawing back to more optimal sword range, but for just a moment, the Crane almost seems competent as a combatant.

"What is duty to you?" Meikuko asks.

"Duty is to stand before a superior foe. To know my limitations, to understand myself and this world, and my students and my peers, that we might rise above, to become more than what we are, but never forget how we got there. And to make sure every Explorer knows, when we seek the new horizon, that we do not leave our home behind; we bring it with us, to still greater glory."

"And what if I were yours to command?" the lioness follows.

Oh, now there's a thought, and at that, Tori eats a blow to draw nearer in a burst of aggression uncharacteristic to her style that nearly takes the Lion by surprise, almost requiring thought to defend against. Yet Tori pulls near enough to whisper in Meikuko's ear, "You already are." A glint in the little bird's eye and a crook of her lip give the faintest hint of where her mind has wandered, but before the idea can solidify, she continues, the measured pause practiced and trained to have the correct impact.

"As your revered founder once said; a leader need only two things. The perception to find capable companions, and the intelligence to stay out of their way. Look around us, and what do you see? My brothers and sisters. My Explorers. Many of them, I do not know, yet they are family all the same. These are the men and women whose ability I will stake my destiny on in the face of the storm. I perceive that you have the capability to bring them together, to test them. And I have the intelligence to know, you needn't be the only one taking their measure."

Not long after, two bows, and Meikuko is gone. This isn't a time for a lack of propriety, so Tori pays her respects as well, but her short little legs aren't nearly enough to keep up. She takes a moment to compose herself right before the top, so she isn't gasping and wheezing, but that's just damage control on an embarrassing, if unsurprising, performance.

Still, she acquits herself well at the top. Her methods are, admittedly, more Kaiu than Akodo, rooted more in Foundations than Leadership, but in matters of defense, most Lion respect the Kaiu ways, and this Asahina's insights in how to rapidly fortify a city and block major lines of attack to maximize efficacy of limited forces are impressive. Still, it ends up less thinking like a Lion, and more collaborating with one. Not the point of the exercise.

((Resilience:
Raw Reflex: 2d10 10, fail. -1 MEEP.
Bonk!: 2#5d10o10k1 7 9, 9 damage, as she swings extra hard at the little pacifist.
Belligerence:
Jiujutsu: 2d10 18, fail. 0 MEEP.
Honour with a U:
Lore: Virtues (Duty), Sage, FR: 5d10o10k4 29, pass. +2 MEEP.
Leadership:
Courtier, Doji FR and Leadership FR for TN, -10 Lechery, TN10: 4d10o10k3-10 23, pass. +2 MEEP
Fortitude:
Athletics/Stamina, -5 paying respects, TN20: 3d10o10k2-5 5, -2 MEEP.
Strategy:
Engineering, 2R, TN30: 7d10o10k4 35, pass. +3 MEEP.
Commitment:
History/Willpower: 3d10o10k2 13, fail. -1 MEEP. Note: I originally used the wrong dice pool for this one. Wrote willpower, but it didn't click and I used intelligence anyways. ^^U
Total: 3 MEEP. +15 VIP.))



_________________
Crane * Courtier * Distinguished Naturalist * Sailor * Imperial Naval Academy * Tinker * Lecher * Small * Honors Student * Captain * Sensei * Librarian of the Explorers
Status: 4.0 * Glory: 8.6 * Honor: 6.5 * Reputation: 4.1
Inventory: Wakizashi, Tanto, Fan, Calligraphy Set, Mirror, Pistol, Seagull Necklace
Rokugani * Thrane * Merenaese
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Thu Oct 19, 2017 6:54 pm 
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Surprising no one more than herself, the Lion did not make contact. Ran evaded her, and when it came her time to choose a weapon and attack, she chose the polearm. And she weilded it well, though perhaps it was evident she had no training with it.

As the sparring continues, Meikuko has pressed on and asks you a question while staring into your soul with her implacable gaze. "What is Sincerity to you?"
"If I say I will do something, I will do it, or I will die trying. My word is all I have, I am just a ronin, I have no family to protect me, no clan to guide me. I walk my own path, and so I must act with sincerity in all things."

"And what if I were yours to command?"
There is no hint of attraction from the ronin. Only consideration of the words.
"I would hope that you would be amenable to listening. To stopping your advances, and considering your actions, thinking things through."

Without hesitation to pay respects, when the Akodo storms out of the dojo, Ran blindly follows her, not finished with her yet.

She scales the mounds effortlessly, right on Meikiko's heels. She considers the question posed: "If the city was attacked by the gaijin, how would they do that? How would you defend it?"

And then, all the wind in Ran's proverbial sails left her, and she faltered. Her mouth opened, and there was only silence. She could think of nothing but the sound of the wind around them. She had no idea how the gaijin would penetrate them, how they would defend against it.

Clueless.

"...with a Lion army, of course. Think like a Lion!"
Ran frowned then, as the Akodo's words tore from her any sense of calm.
"I cannot. I am not a Lion. Thank you for your time, Akodo-sama." Ran bowed, and found her exit.

D1 EM Reflexes/Defence Void phantom rank TN 20: 4d10o10k3 34 = 2 MEEP
D1 EM Agility/Polearms Void phantom rank TN 20: 4d10o10k3 28 = 1 MEEP
D1 EM Awa/Sincerity 1 FR (Paragon) TN 20: 6d10o10k3 24 = 2 MEEP
D1 EM Awa/Courtier TN 20: 6d10o10k3 25 = 1 MEEP
D1 EM Str/Athletics (Climbing) Void phantom rank TN 20: 3d10o10k2 30 = 2 MEEP
D1 EM Intelligence/Lore: Gaijin Cultures 1 FR (Sage), 1 FR (School) TN 20: 5d10o10k3 13 = 0 MEEP
D1 EM Void/Meditation TN 20: 6d10o10k3 18 = Very Progressive -10 = 8 = -1 MEEP
= 7 MEEP, 35 VIP, Meikuko's Favour, 'Minor Breach of Etiquette'



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Tortoise clan • Someisa Daimyo | Soul of Artistry (Craft) | Sage | One with Nature | Paragon (Sincerity) | Blessed by Sadahako | Bad Fortune (Disfigurement: Abundant Freckles)
Status: 6.0 • Honour: Exceptional • Glory: 3.8 • Infamy 0.2 • Reputation 1.8 • Notoriety 0.5 | College of the Dawning Light | First Mate, the Stingray
Languages: Rokugani, Mereanese | Ichigo the space turtle Image

Outfit: Extravagant Clothing, Wakizashi, Pistol, Calligraphy Set, Traveling Pack
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 Post subject: Re: Survival of the Most Eligible [Event, EM1]
PostPosted: Thu Oct 19, 2017 7:54 pm 
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Joined: Sun Oct 02, 2016 2:58 am
Posts: 3783
The event is now closed!

Top Three:
1. Matsu Yasuhiro (16 MEEP)
2. Seppun Hinami (15 MEEP)
3. Ran (7 MEEP)

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Female superiority clause not activated, Yasuhiro has his MEEPs multiplied by 10 instead of 5 in calculating VIPs, and can sway Meikuko's philosophical outlooks by 1 increment in either direction from Traditional (i.e. toward Very Traditional or Neutral). This can happen in the course of role-playing on the next day. Once Meikuko becomes the Lion Champion, this will affect overall Lion stance toward the issue of Tradition vs. Progress. He is also the only man whose name is mentioned to Odorihime.

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Meikuko as a 4/1 Ally: Masu Yasuhiro, Seppun Hinami
Meikuko's Favour: Masu Yasuhiro, Seppun Hinami, Ran, Shosuro Anzai, Yogo Akarei
Meikuko's Displeasure: Agasha Utsusemi, Mirumoto Kenzo
Meikuko's Retribution: None

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Special side-effects:
- Meikuko becomes more positively disposed toward the Scorpion and more negatively disposed toward the Dragon.
- The ronin Ran is mentioned to Odorihime in a positive light. On that recommendation, she becomes eligible for participation in the Tethering.

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+5 VIP for Virtuous RP: TBA



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