I had this thread on the AEG forums but since those are down (indefinitely?) I'm reposting the write-ups for the L5R campaign I'm running here.
We started with a "character jam" session where we all got together and the players came up with character concepts together. This worked out really well as they all got to make the characters they wanted and the group had good reasons to be together. I also asked them to develop these characters with an overall campaign concept in mind.
They decided they would all (well except for one) be members of the same clan, and they wanted that clan to have fallen. I took that idea and added some of my own and got things rolling.
Their clan is the Boar, a minor house, which I have placed in the southwestern area of the Unicorn clan territory.
I should state right now that canon is taking a back seat, and I'm changing or ditching stuff freely to fit the characters and their story. Names of places and personages in particular are being edited to suit my own tastes (the faux Japanese names grate on both me and my players). Canon story elements are either being edited or ignored. If this bothers you, you have been warned.
I've renamed the locations, which is easily done as the maps in the book are letter coded.
Q - Byakuya-ko
U13 - Hakuyama
U11 - Shirojo
After our character jam, we had time for the intro session (posted below) in which I allowed the players to establish their characters, and then I basically let them experience the destruction of their clan.
I'll also post up the first full session we played just last Sunday. It was very intense, dramatic, and action packed. We're having a good time so far!
This was our intro session where we established the characters and set up the situation. It was also a shakedown of the system as we are all new to L5R. It went well and everyone was quite satisfied.
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The Hour of the Boar
Rokugan, Autumn, 1165, the Fourth year of Antoku
On the eastern borders of the Empire lay the Boar lands, gifted to their founder Ichijo Kansuke for his service to the Emperor at the Battle of Oblivion’s gate. The castle at Hakuyama was only finished 10 years before it was destroyed…
Jozan made his way unhurriedly through the village to the road at the edge of the lake. It was a fine morning, and a good day for the blessing of the crops. Peasants on their way to the fields to bring in the harvest bowed as he passed and he acknowledged them with a wave. Upon reaching the first of several rice paddies he noted with satisfaction that the blessing he bestowed on the fields during planting season had indeed pleased the kami, for the rice stood tall and strong. He intoned a word to focus his mind on the kami as he rolled up his sleeve, then reached down and put his hand in the warm muddy earth. The spirits of the field ensured him of a bountiful harvest.
Kido Toshiro did not dwell on the hushed whispers and sidelong glances his Lion clan mon often drew. He had appeared in the court of Ichijo months before and after a long and private audience with the Boar clan daimyo, was announced and welcomed publicly as hatamoto. But what was a champion of the Lion doing here in a backwater like this? None could say, and Kido kept his thoughts to himself. Yet none could question his dedication to Lord Ichijo, for the foreign bushi took over command of the guard with a zeal that only a Lion could muster. Kido Toshiro made sure he was the first to rise every day and perform a kata to bring his mind and body into balance.
Ichijo Akiteru was not the name he was born with. The young samurai who strode out onto the castle parade ground was born a peasant, and until his coming of age had been known by a commoner’s name. Akiteru shifted his armor uncomfortably in the fading heat of summer. The great honor bestowed upon him made him wonder if Lord Ichijo had not meant it for someone else. But the Boar clan was young and in need of smart warriors – the seemingly endless wars throughout the lands of the Empire regularly depleted the ranks of the samurai. So Akiteru accepted his daisho graciously and promised himself that he would live up to the ideals of bushido.
Ichijo Nobutada enjoyed the finer things in life. The subtle nuances of well-spoken poetry, the deft artistry required to speak volumes through a single kanji, these were his province. Nobutada did not neglect his duties as a warrior, and kept his sword polished and sharp, though he rarely carried it as it upset the sensibilities of the female members of the court, whose presence he greatly enjoyed. Neither did he neglect, nor could he avoid, his responsibilities as an advisor to his uncle Lord Ichijo, a post his father once filled, although he sometimes gave less attention to boring bureaucratic annoyances. After all, life was too short to waste on paperwork when the cherry blossoms were in bloom (and the sake flowing freely).
As members of Lord Ichijo’s council, the heroes sit in the audience chamber. Lord Ichijo contemplates a scroll rolled out before him. The Dragon are about to declare open rebellion against the Empire, and want to know where the Boar clan’s loyalties lay. The Boar are friendly with both the Dragon and the Lion clan, to the extent that their members have trained in the schools of those great houses, the latter of which are staunch supporters of the throne. Lord Ichijo is being pressed for an answer, and asks the heroes for their thoughts.
Jozan feels it is necessary to maintain neutrality as long as possible, a notion which Nobutada strongly agrees with. Toshiro naturally advises against taking sides against the Emperor, and it is a mark of Lord Ichijo’s trust that Toshiro is even allowed in on the discussion. Akiteru recognizes the difficult position of the Boar clan, but stresses the importance of loyalty as one of the cornerstones of the warrior code.
Lord Ichijo decides to retire to his chambers to write a response, and declares that the heroes will take it to the Dragon clan in the morning. They all bid their lord goodnight and retire, all save Nobutada, who will assist Lord Ichijo in writing the reply.
Later, the moon slowly disappears behind the clouds in the Hour of the Boar. Jozan is preparing for bed in his chambers within the keep. By candlelight, Nobutada transcribes his lord’s words. Akiteru is asleep in the guard barracks, and Toshiro walks along the battlements. Something is in the air, a strange coppery smell. It begins to rain, and immediately Toshiro knows something is wrong. The raindrops are not water, but blood! The few guards on the wall rush for the guard houses in a panic at this evil omen.
Toshiro wipes the blood from his eyes and looks out onto the forest beyond the wall.
In my campaign, the Rain of Blood poisons the kami of the land rather than the people. I have some long term ideas for this but I wanted to incude it at the beginning to establish it early on. It will figure into things later.
Standing along the edge of the treeline is a vast rank of warriors, all standing stock still and dead silent. Then a tremendous cracking noise echoes through the air, as if a tree had been snapped in two. This can’t be good. Toshiro sends a runner to awaken Jozan.
Then a huge figures steps forward from the trees. Toshiro has only heard about the oni of the Shadowlands, but this is the first time he’s ever seen one, and doesn’t want to again. The huge giant lifts a massive iron club skyward and lets out a strange fierce howl. Then as one, with no blowing of battle horns or shouting of commands, the grey army begins to advance on the castle. Inside, as Nobutada looks over at Lord Ichijo, he sees a shadow appear outside the shoji, and knows it means danger.
Toshiro leaps for the alarm bell and begins ringing it for all he’s worth. With advance warning the castle could be held for weeks, but this army has materialized out of thin air it seems, and caught them by surprise. The guards pick up the call to arms but seem on the verge of panic. Toshiro senses doom and realizes the castle is lost. His only thought now is to get Lord Ichijo to safety.
Three shuriken snap through the shoji and stick into Lord Ichijo’s back and neck. Nobutada leaps up, drawing his wakizashi as Lord Ichijo drops. In his chamber at the end of the hall, Jozan hears a guard breathlessly report that the castle is under attack. Jozan grabs his gear and runs after the guard, only to see two ninja at the end of the hall. The black-clad killers shriek as they cut through the shoji and enter the private work room.
Nobutada ducks as a shuriken whistles past his cheek, and then moves in between the two ninja and Lord Ichijo. It is all he can do to block their whirling swords with his wakizashi. Jozan reaches the breached shoji and sees Nobutada and the ninja. One of them turns and leaps toward him. Immediately, Jozan calls on the kami to lend him their power and a large club of rock and earth flows up into his hands in time to parry the ninja’s attack.
Outside, the attackers have swarmed up to the walls. Volleys of fire arrows arc into the castle grounds and the keep is beginning to burn. The castle shakes as the oni batters the wall with its club and smashes a breach right through it. The grey host pours into the castle and flows around it into the village of Hakuyama, killing all in their path.
Toshiro meets Akiteru running up to the ramparts and orders the youth to bring his men along and protect Lord Ichijo. Toshiro and Akiteru enter the keep and are immediately confronted by two ninja dropping down from the ceiling. The samurai and the ninja clash, their swords chiming a deadly melody, and soon both fall to Toshiro and Akiteru’s blades.
In the audience chamber, Jozan and Nobutada hold their own against the ninja and the fight spills into the ladies quarters. Toshiro and Akiteru arrive and help to dispatch the two assassins. The bodies of the ninja gush a foul black ichor rather than blood.
The heroes rush to Lord Ichijo. The daimyo is dying, his blood on fire with poison from the shuriken. He grabs Nobutada and pulls him close. “Avenge me,” he says as his breath leaves him. For a moment the heroes are stunned. The Boar clan is dying. Akiteru moves to the window and is greeted with a terrifying sight, the castle grounds are in flames and the village outside is also burning. The screams and cries of terror, battle, and murder fill the air. The oni outside bellows its triumph.
In the stumbling recognition that Nobutada is now the ranking member of the Boar clan, the heroes resolve to escape. They quickly ransack Lord Ichijo’s quarters as the fire begins to consume the castle. Nobutada only has time to grab Lord Ichijo’s katana and kabuto. They run for the escape tunnel and lift off the tatami covering the hole. Toshiro starts down followed by Nobutada. Then Toshiro feels something underfoot and realizes he’s stepped on a booby trap! A small charge of gunpowder goes off, blowing Toshiro and Nobutada out of the hole, and wounding them.
The escape tunnel has collapsed. Jozan decides to call on the kami for assistance. When he does something very unexpected happens. A column of hot mud comes boiling up out of the ground and forms into a manifestation of an earth kami, although twisted and terrifying to look upon. It’s mouth opens and molten metal drools out. “All roads are closed to you!” it hisses. Everyone breaks for the main gate as Jozan strikes at the corrupted kami with a blast of jade energy to cover their retreat.
The heroes rush out of the keep into the parade ground, intending to head for the stables. There are bodies everywhere, and the grey horde is slaughtering everyone they can. Standing in the middle of the parade field is their leader, a tremendous oni almost 30 feet tall. It’s skin is the color of dried blood, it hair is a tangled black mass, and it’s face is twisted with unholy joy. It spies the heroes and attacks.
I used the stats for the oni no uglu. I know they aren't 30 feet tall but I needed some numbers. I was making most of this up on the fly anyway.
Toshiro leaps forward, rushing beneath the giant’s feet. The oni’s huge iron club smashes a foot into the earth, narrowly missing Toshiro and crushing him into paste. Toshiro counters and his strike draws a gout of foul black blood. Jozan and Nobutada rush past the battle heading for the stables as Akiteru draws both his blades and joins the fight. He dashes in and behind the oni, and with two mighty cuts, hamstrings the giant. It collapses to the ground and Toshiro steps up and rams his sword into its eye up to the hilt. As the creature expires noisily, Toshiro puts his foot on its head and yanks his sword out.
In the burning stables, Nobutada is dazed by a kick from a fear-crazed horse. Akiteru calms the beast, and the heroes mount up two to a saddle. Both Nobutada and Toshiro are badly wounded and need to lean on their fellows for support.
The heroes ride out of the stables and through the remains of the gate. The grey warriors release a flight of arrows after them as they escape. In a final act of defiance, Jozan speaks to the kami of the air and brings forth an image of Lord Ichijo on his horse, which turns and charges back at the attackers. Whether the silent horde of killers is surprised that their arrows go right through the phantom lord, the heroes cannot tell.
The heroes have escaped with their lives but their honor burns with the shame of their loss. Carrying the legacy of the Boar, they ride into the darkness of the night, lit by a tower of fire behind them…
The rainclouds are lit from below by the fires Hakuyama Castle and the surrounding town. On the south shore of Byakuya-ko, two horses carrying four riders gallop through the rice paddies and into the woods, past the remains of outlying villages all put to the torch. Nobutada and Toshiro are still in much pain from wounds sustained during their escape from the castle, but still they ride on.
A group of enemy horsemen pick up the heroes’ trail. Two arrows nearly find their mark in Jozan’s back. As they close, Jozan enables their escape by calling upon the kami for aid and blinds the horses of their pursuers with a brilliant flash of light.
Finally after a few more hours of hard riding, the heroes reach Nandoji monastery. The bodies of two priests lie dead near the gate. Inside, the other priests are also found dead – the enemy has left no one alive. Fortunately, the heroes seem to be the only people there. Not wishing to touch the dead for fear of spiritual pollution (and because disturbing the bodies might tip off any enemy troops that come by), the heroes collapse with exhaustion inside the temple building. The temple itself has been desecrated, the altar smashed, the whole place ransacked, and the body of one of one of the priests thrown down the well.
A day is spent resting and tending to wounds. Jozan and Akiteru take turns on watch, and also see what they can salvage from the temple’s larder, as they escaped with no food for the road. A few days worth of rice and some dried fruit is all they can find, but welcome just the same. For the first time they reflect on what just happened. They have lost everything – land and possessions, but most importantly, family and friends. Nobutada composes a haiku.
Upturned ink stone
Origami crane
Trampled in the mud
Yeah, I know it isn't 5-7-5 (maybe the player forgot the rule?) but he was sincere about it so I didn't squelch him on it. Nice touch on his part.
During the night, Akiteru finds Nobutada awake and alert. Nobutada seems spooked but says nothing of it.
Nobutada is now haunted by the ghost of his uncle, Lord Ichijo. I've got some ideas about this involving a sort of Hamlet kind of groove but still not yet sure where they'll go. Nobutada finds he cannot draw Lord Ichijo's sword from its scabbard.
In the morning, the heroes decide to move out, heading east. But before they set off, Jozan, standing guard at the gate, sees a soldier in Boar livery come riding up the road. The man and his horse have been pin-cushioned with arrows.
Six enemy cavalry are in hot pursuit. The soldier’s horse crashes to the ground and the soldier is thrown clear, landing in an unconscious heap. Jozan leaps to aid him and shouts the alarm. The others draw their weapons and rush to aid him.
The enemy soldiers appear to be undead. In fact some of them are Boar clan warriors! Akiteru even recognizes one. The heroes manage to keep their wits however, and set to the enemy. The fight is close and brutal but the undead are expertly crippled with cuts to the legs, crushed by Jozan’s earthen club, and finally decapitated. The zombie horses collapse into piles of offal.
The player running Jozan and I both messed up the TNs for spellcasting and were calling them higher than they should have been. We straightend it out afterwards but during this fight, Jozan couldn't hit the roll needed to call up the air kami for several rounds. Then he switched to earth and got his tetsubo going and in the next round knocked one of the zombies' heads clean off! Fun, fun, fun!
Jozan tries to help the wounded soldier but he won’t last the night. However, before he dies he tells the heroes that he had been looking for them. He reports that Lady Kono (Nobutada’s cousin) and a small contingent of warriors and peasants escaped and are headed north into the mountains toward the Dragon Gorge Bridge. Lady Kono also has in her charge, Ichijo Yoshinobu, Lord Ichijo’s six-year old son!
As long as Lord Ichijo’s rightful heir still lives, they must help him. Indeed they feel shame for their failure to protect their Lord, and with this news, the heroes’ course is clear.
To catch up with Lady Kono and her refugee column, the heroes must cross the lake and head into the mountains on the other side. Jozan and Akiteru head down to the lake to see if there are any boats that might get them across the lake. Indeed they find one, and they also come across Rikyu, the head priest of Nandoji, hiding among the gravestones in the cemetery. Rikyu is old and weak but still has great skill at healing. Rikyu tends to Nobutada and Toshiro’s wounds.
They board the boat, but must leave their horses behind. The boat scuds out onto the lake and they begin to cross. By nightfall they reach the north shore and quickly head off the road and climb into the steep hills. A few hours later, while Jozan is on watch, he feels something very strange. He puts his hand on the ground and just knows there is going to be an earthquake! Everyone wakes up to a strong earthquake lasting several seconds. Toshiro notices a nearby tree starting to sway and slide downhill. It’s a landslide! The heroes dash away just as the side of the hill they were resting on rolls away, crashing down to the road below and cutting it off.
Believe it or not, about 30 minutes after this scene there was a real earthquake! I don't know where it was centered and I think it was pretty far away, but it was a 5.0 and strong enough to send us all heading for the door!
Looking back toward Hakuyama, they see that the ruins of the castle and the town are gone, as if the earth had swallowed them up. A strange, sickly blue light glows over the place where Hakuyama once stood. The heroes find another spot to rest and bed down for the night.
In the morning, they cut overland through the forested mountains and by midday have almost reached the mountain road leading to Dragon Gorge Bridge. The next day, they do reach it and Akiteru scouts ahead. It seems that lady Kono and her party have indeed passed this way and may be no more than a day or two ahead. Nobutada then sees a group of riders and soldiers in the distance, coming up the road. The race is on!
There’s nothing for it but to run. The heroes get on the road and begin a long uphill jog. Finally, winded and gasping for breath, they top a rise to see the rearguard of Lady Kono’s group. There are about 50 people, including about 15 soldiers and a handful of samurai. Lord Ichijo’s son is being carried along in a kago (palanquin).
Everyone is surprised to see the heroes but there is little time for heartfelt welcomes. The enemy force is approaching the column must get across the bridge as quickly as possible. Everyone double times it for the bridge.
Dragon Gorge Bridge comes into view. It is a narrow but sturdy suspension footbridge about 500 feet long, hung over the deep gorge and river below. Lord Ichijo’s son is about to cross, carried in his kago, but he stops to allow the peasants to go first. Nobutada and Toshiro confer; they must hold off the advancing Shadowlands force until everyone is across.
There is little time but the other warriors are rounded up and set in a position in the trees along the roadside. Toshiro, Akiteru and a few soldiers stand at the head of the bridge. The civilian column is nearly across the bridge when the Shadowlands force comes into view. The goblins and goblin warmongers let off shrieking battlecries and charge the heroes they can see. Akiteru fells one with a well-placed arrow. As the goblins engage, Toshiro draws his sword and in one swift motion slashes one of the goblins.
Behind the green horde, a goblin shaman begins to work foul sorcery.
Nobutada screams, “Charge!” and the hidden ambushers leap to the attack. Nobutada, Jozan, and Lady Kono rush the shaman who lets off a spell that knocks Lady Kono to her knees. Nobutada lands a strike on the shaman who turns to run, but Jozan chases the creature down and caves his chest in with a blow from his rock tetsubo.
Toshiro and Akiteru are toe-to-toe with the goblin warmongers, but manage to cut them down. The heroes close in on the remaining goblins to finish the job. Jozan sees yet another larger force of goblins coming up the road. He shouts a warning and the heroes begin to pull back onto the bridge. Two can walk abreast on the bridge making it a good yet precarious defensive position.
Jozan is still on the road in front of the onrushing goblin horde. He begins to concentrate and calls upon the kami of the air for aid. A blast of wind rushes up out of the gorge and onto the charging goblins, checking their advance. Nobutada orders everyone back. Lady Kono is still mobile but appears wounded and she goes across. Nobutada and Akiteru follow as quickly as they can, with Jozan holding off the goblins with his magic. Toshiro shouts for him to fall back. The heroes had already figured on having to cut the bridge down behind them but not so soon! Toshiro takes a cut at the bridge cables, weakening them but not cutting all the way through.
Jozan leaps for the bridge and he and Toshiro now begin a desperate rearguard holding action to give the others time to cross. The goblins press forward and the weight of their numbers pushes the heroes back.
Akiteru and Nobutada have reached the other side. Only Jozan and Toshiro are still on the bridge. As they draw their bows, a huge troll lumbers up behind the goblins and onto the bridge. Nobutada orders a few archers to try to shoot the troll and the goblins. The beast kicks the shrieking goblins in front of it aside and off the bridge into the gorge in an effort to close with Jozan and Toshiro. The two heroes glance quickly at each other. Jozan grabs for something to hold onto as Toshiro slashes at the bridge cable. The ropes, already cut and weakened and the bridge bowing under so much weight, snap.
The troll and the goblins plummet into the gorge. Toshiro and Jozan hang on as the bridge swings down four hundred feet and then slams into the opposite wall. Toshiro is severely wounded and knocked out; if he hadn’t been wound up in the supporting ropes he would have fallen into the river as well. Toshiro hangs limply among the tangled bridge ropes. Jozan is injured and dazed but still alive. He calls on the kami of the air who surround Toshiro and lift him up to the top of the cliff. Jozan then begins a careful, painful climb up the wreckage of the bridge.
The goblins force on the other side of the gorge howl impotently at them but eventually leave. It is a week’s journey around the gorge in either direction, so the heroes and their party are safe for the moment.
What a great sequence! The guys playing Jozan and Toshiro really wanted that stunt so I let 'em have it. Toshiro's player also garnered the kantosho (fighting spirit) award, which extra XP I hand out to whomever the other players agree had the best display of sheer guts and courage in the session.
Nobutada explains what happened to Lady Kono and Lord Ichijo’s son, then presents the lad with his father’s sword. The boy is only six but already he is being forced to deal with what his position entails. Still he’s just a child, scared and utterly at a loss for what to do. He thanks Nobutada and the others for their help.
For the first time in several days the pressure is off somewhat. The heroes still need to get to Shirojo in Unicorn lands but without the Shadowlands forces breathing down their necks they can slow down a bit. The next day passes without incident as the column of survivors makes it’s way down out of the mountains.
That evening, Jozan relates the tale of Kiyowara Shinbei, his great-grandfather who was lost to the Shadowlands. Jozan says that he recognized the banner of Kiyowara during the sacking of Hakuyama Castle. If it is indeed Jozan’s ancestor who led the Shadowlands army against the Boar Clan, Jozan now swears vengeance upon him.
The following morning, they break camp and continue their journey. Lady Kono expresses her concerns about seeking shelter with the Unicorn; they do not know where the Unicorn clan stands with regard to the impending conflict between the rebel clans and the Imperial loyalists. Lady Kono is still in pain from the goblin shaman’s attack. The heroes fear she may have been tainted.
In the evening as they are making camp for the night, Nobutada senses something strange. Suddenly he notices a bizarre figure standing near the treeline. Nobutada blinks and the creature is now squatting atop Yoshinobu’s palanquin. No one else seems to have seen it yet. It is a man, perhaps, dressed in what seems to be a black bodysuit wrapped in a wire mesh. Its face is covered with a disturbingly serene Noh mask, framed by a pair of golden pigtails. A short straight sword is its only visible weapon. Is it some kind of ninja?
Yep. Some of you may recognize this as one of the enemies from the Onimusha series of PS2 games. I like the creepy imagery, so I've made him into one of the enigmatic Big Bads of the campaign, and took the opportunity to introduce him here.
It looks at Nobutada who realizes what’s going on and screams, “Intruder! Assassin!” He draws his wakizashi as everyone else notices the ninja. The shadowy figure springs into action, lightning fast. In two amazing leaps it is on top of Nobutada. The ninja quickly and deftly disarms Nobutada, then puts him in a hold with his blade at his throat. The ninja whispers in Nobutada’s ear.
“It is an honor to meet thee. My master has forseen thy fate and thus ye shall be spared the oblivion desired of you by thine enemies. Follow the road to the capital if thou wilst.”
As the other heroes run to the palanquin to protect Yoshinobu, the ninja releases Nobutada and leaps back. It stands before them, bows, and says, “Forgive my manners. I am Girajoda. Our meeting is brief, but I will see you again.” With that, the ninja leaps back into the woods, the few arrows shot at him by the other samurai finding only empty space.
Immediately the heroes open the palanquin. Indeed, Yoshinobu is inside. He appears to be sleeping peacefully, but on closer inspection, he is dead. The ninja had done his work.
Everyone is devastated. Lady Kono is inconsolable with grief. The peasants set up a great wailing. The heroes burn with sadness and the shame of yet another blow to their honor.
This time, they are able to give a proper, if spartan, funeral rite for the murdered boy. Jozan and Rikyu chant a few sutras to the Fortunes to protect Yoshinobu’s soul, and the palanquin containing the boy’s body is placed on a funeral pyre and burned. Behind the flames, Nobutada, clutching Lord Ichijo’s sword sees a face and hears a voice that fills him with shame. Nobutada is now truly the heir to Lord Ichijo’s title.
The death of the boy was a real downer for everyone at the table I think, and the players roleplayed their characters' grief well.
Before going to sleep, the heroes discuss Lady Kono. They greatly fear that the goblin Shaman’s curse has infected her with the dark taint. Jozan says that he can test her, although merely requesting such a test could stain her honor. Even worse, if it proves that she is indeed tainted, the only recourse for her would be seppuku. Yet the dangers of the taint cannot be ignored. Nobutada puts the question to Lady Kono as delicately as possible; she fears the taint as well, and agrees to the test in full knowledge of the consequences. Jozan summons the earth kami of jade and the spirits plunge into and through Lady Kono, but she is unharmed! After so many grim setbacks, they all breathe a sigh of relief that Lady Kono is free of any evil taint.
OK, now I know that the goblin shaman's spell couldn't infect Lady Kono with the taint, but the players didn't and so they fretted about it. I saw the opportunity for some drama and ran with it, and things played out as they did. After so many setbacks it was good to have something go right for them for once.
The heroes resolve to reach Shirojo and make a plea for Lord Honjo’s hospitality, before deciding what to do next.
Just after dawn on the following day, the refugees are spotted by a Unicorn cavalry patrol. Moto Sachiko, leading a group of Unicorn Battle Maidens rides up and announces herself. She does not recognize Nobutada who bristles a bit but after the gauntlet they’ve been through he’s bound to be a little prickly. Toshiro reminds Nobutada of the protocol, and Nobutada swiftly delivers a fine greeting. Moto Sachiko and her cavalry escort the Boar refugees to Shirojo.
The peasants and soldiers are allowed to camp in one of the fields outside the castle. The PCs and other surviving Boar samurai, including Lady Kono and Rikyu are given guest rooms in the castle. After a week of almost non-stop pursuit and several bitter combats, the heroes look as bad as they feel. Their shredded, blood and mud stained clothes are taken away. Their equipment is removed to be cleaned and their weapons are respectfully taken away to be oiled and polished. Toshiro lost his sword when the bridge fell but under the circumstances, what can one say but shikata ga nai?
After a very welcome hot bath, and a full meal, the heroes are given fresh clothes and then summoned to Lord Honjo’s audience chamber. Lord Honjo wishes to hear more about what happened over the mountains – his scouts have reported Shadowlands activity on the northern borders, where there hadn’t been any such sighting in years. He has also heard other reports that the area around Byakuyako was sacked.
Nobutada confirms these reports and relates the story. Lord Honjo is shocked to hear that both Lord Ichijo and his son have been killed. The Unicorn daimyo then wonders how is it that the heroes, Lord Ichijo’s trusted advisors and family members “missed the opportunity to fulfill their duty”. It’s not a direct accusation of cowardice but it stings nonetheless. Nobutada says that they may yet fulfill their duty and see the Boar clan rise again.
To this, Lord Honjo says that only the Son of Heaven in the Imperial City has the power and right to recognize the head of a clan. Only there may the heroes perhaps reclaim the Boar clan’s honor. Until then, they are masterless samurai, ronin. As such, Lord Honjo cannot accept them in his care unless they swear fealty to him, though he will allow the Boar clan peasants to stay in his lands. The heroes will have a week to rest and recover. Then they will be provisioned and can then leave to seek whatever destinies the Fates have for them. The heroes understand the veiled displeasure of Lord Honjo and recognize that they’ve gotten off quite lucky.
They retire to their quarters to rest and contemplate their fate.
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We'll be playing again in three weeks. Looking forward to it!
Had a bit of trouble getting the crew together, but we played two weeks ago and we have another session coming up this Sunday (our last this year). After this next session we'll be halfway through the campaign, with three more sessions planned after that.
As a result I have the heroes on an accelerated XP curve, with 12 - 14 points per session. I may ramp this up some more to get them into shape for the big finish.
Note: I'm doing my own thing with the Emperor here and pitching the AEG canon out the window. If this bothers you, you have been warned.
The Hour of the Boar – Part 2
The Journey East
The First Step
In the castle garden of Unicorn damiyo Lord Honjo, the heroes sit and discuss their situation. Their only hope of seeing the Boar Clan restored is to travel to the Imperial City, Heian-kyo (Toshi-Ranbo), over 1,000 miles to the east. Nobutada gains audience with Lord Honjo and relates his plans. Lord Honjo says that his scouts report Shadowlands creatures sighted on his borders, and is naturally concerned. At the same time, he says a large Unicorn army is on the way to reinforce his own troops. Lord Honjo wishes Nobutada well.
Nobutada meets the official quartermaster, and invites him and some friends around to a farewell party to be held in the heroes quarters that evening, intending to try and secure some decent supplies out of him for the long journey ahead.
The party is well attended and the Quartermaster, half in the bag already, is a agreeing to most of Nobutada’s requests. The atmosphere is lively and the sake flows freely – perhaps a bit too freely. While Toshiro stands guard a few paces from Nobutada, Akiteru attempts to relate the story of Toshiro and Jozan’s defense of the Dragon Gorge Bridge. His story captures attention but does not quite captivate. At the same time, a lady of the castle sitting next to Jozan admires him for his courage, and then says that if they should need any help when they reach the Imperial City, they should seek out a merchant named Morimoto.
Nobutada now speaks out and tells the tale of the Dragon Gorge Bridge, and the audience is rapt. Jozan is a bit embarrassed to be given such an honor, and Toshiro bears it stoically as always. When Nobutada finishes, there is applause, but one guest is not so appreciative.
The Honjo samurai next to Akiteru mumbles drunkenly, “Honor? They should have died in the castle defending their lord. Cowards the lot of them.”
At this the room falls silent. Toshiro steps forward. “What did you say?” he asks. The samurai again angrily slurs out they were cowards and his hand moves toward his sword hilt. Toshiro locks his gaze on the drunk and the stare-down begins. The samurai sees only his death in Toshiro’s eyes and bows out, stumbling drunkenly out of the room. He was lucky. Had the man been sober, there would be no excuse for his rude insults and blood would have been drawn. As it is, the room breathes a collective sigh of relief, and Nobutada quickly orders the servants to pour more drinks. Finally, the party over, the heroes retire to bed.
The Great Kami of the Fields
In the morning, they assemble on the parade ground. Accompanying them to the capital are Lady Kono, Rikyo, the old monk, two of the surviving Ichijo samurai, and 10 Ichijo soldiers. The horses and ponies are loaded and made ready for the journey. Lord Honjo sees them off as they head out of the gate and onto the road.
For many days and weeks they travel east. The mountains and foothills give way to sweeping grasslands as far as the eye can see. The heroes and their retainers keep a good pace, as winter is coming, but it is still early enough that they don’t need to hurry. Despite the idyll of the journey, one night Lady Kono tells Jozan that she is afraid, and that she thinks they will fail. Jozan consoles her but there is little else he can do.
Their trek through the Unicorn lands is uneventful, and after long they reach the borderlands and an area of un-patrolled territory. As they approach a small village Akiteru and Jozan scout ahead. They find the village deserted, and then head for a nearby shrine to check it out. The rest of the party enters the village. It is eerily quiet and there are no signs of anyone around. The barley nearby seems to have a path pushed into it, as if something very large trampled the grain.
Jozan and Akiteru reach the shrine, and Jozan senses something is wrong. There is a coppery smell in the air, like blood. He reaches down and puts his hand on the ground to commune with the kami. The face of an earth kami twists up in front of him, and it appears to be in pain. “It has corrupted us! We are dying! Save us!” it wails, and soon, the voices of other kami join in. The Rain of Blood has fallen here recently.
At the same time, in the village, Nobutada and Toshiro find a peasant farmer hiding in one of the houses. The peasant grovels in fear, babbling about the “blood rain.” Suddenly, the earth shakes. A huge shape rushes out of the barley field and attacks. It is a mukade, a giant centipede twisted and corrupted by the Rain of Blood. The creature is about 30 feet long and over 3 feet wide, covered in chitinous plates. It tramples one of the horses and the samurai upon it before it reaches Toshiro and Nobutada. Hearing the commotion, Akiteru and Jozan leap onto their horses and race back to the village.
The fight with the creature is painful, but the heroes’ swords eventually make short work of it, and fortunately, the poisonous bites Nobutada suffered didn’t take hold.
After the battle, a few more frightened peasants show themselves. Jozan can hear the voices of the kami pleading for help. He knows a purification ritual that might do the trick, and everyone heads over to the shrine out in the fields. Jozan rings the shrine’s bell and begins chanting. Overhead, small points of light begin to glow, resolving into lanterns. Then a giant, ghostly image of a woman in a translucent kimono and a wide straw hat fades into view. As she does, the tortured earth spirits rise up from the ground and float into the lanterns. Then the woman opens her arms and gathers up all the lanterns. She floats down to Jozan and the other heroes, who bow their heads in reverence to this great kami. She then gives a lantern to Jozan, and it is graciously accepted.
They don't know what it is or does, (and maybe I don't either) but it'll come into play later on I'm sure.
City on the Falls
The heroes continue their eastward trek, passing safely out of the badlands and into Lion territory at last. They are following the river road that leads straight to the capital, and soon the rooftops of the great city of Kawanoe (U17) come into view. The city sits astride a great waterfall, and some of its buildings and chambers rest below the drop off, or even within the rock itself.
The heroes enter the city and secure lodgings at a small ryokan. Nobutada and Toshiro head off to try and gain an audience with the Lion daimyo in charge of the city, Lord Kuroda. Although Nobutada’s plea for help is eloquent, Lord Kuroda is only politely interested and aside from wishing them good luck, and providing them with traveling documents, he offers no other assistance. Feeling somewhat disappointed with Lord Kuroda’s indifference, Nobutada and Toshiro head for Toshiro’s old training school in hopes of meeting with Toshiro’s former teacher.
Meanwhile, Jozan and Akiteru enter the Jochiji Temple, and gain access to their library of arcane knowledge. In the darker recesses of the library shelves, Jozan learns something about the history of the Rain of Blood, discovering that it is mentioned in the histories of the Empire but once before, during the time of Iuchiban. (Not sure if that is in the book or not, but it sounded okay to me.)
There also appears to be some connection with an entity referred to as “Akushin-kage,” but no other information is given. He also learns that the Phoenix clan possesses knowledge of a spell that can repel the Shadowlands taint.
Yes, Akushin-kage is from the Cthulhu Japan book. The Nameless entity in the L5R material reminds me of Azathoth, so Akushin-kage as an avatar works for me.
Toshiro and Nobutada enter Toshiro’s old school. Toshiro’s sensei greets his former student and they sit and talk. Toshiro relates the story of events up until now and when he mentions the strange shinobi assassin Girajoda, sensei raises an eyebrow and asks Toshiro to walk with him. While they make a slow circuit of the training grounds, sensei says that Girajoda was the name of a Scorpion clan assassin who either died or disappeared 300 years ago, depending on what stories you believe. Some say he was killed during an attempt to assassinate the Emperor, others say he disappeared into the Shadowlands. Regardless, he was a rogue killer that no one was sorry to see gone.
Somewhat disturbed by this news, the heroes gather at a small teahouse to confer. The rushing noise of the waterfall cascading past the teahouse, which juts out from the cliff face, provides a place where they can discuss things privately. Jozan conducts a tea ceremony first to help center everyone, then they discuss their plans. Essentially they conclude that despite the new threat of the Shadowlands encroachment to the west, most officials they meet aren’t likely to be so concerned, particularly as they get closer to the capital. For most people, the Shadowlands means south of the Great Carpenter Wall, not the lands to the west. The heroes realize that in the great scheme of things, their plight is as yet only of concern to themselves. Once again, they resolve to reach the capital of Heian-kyo and try to take their case to the Emperor.
Early the next morning, the heroes and their entourage set out once again. While crossing a causeway near the falls, a large group of bandits set on them. The heroes square off, back to back, and steel is drawn. In the bloody fight, even Lady Kono manages to skewer one of the assailants with her naginata. The heroes make short work of most of the bandits and the survivors flee. The heroes manage to capture one and they truss him up. Their servants kick the bodies of the dead bandits over into the falls and the heroes quickly leave the city.
After a few hours on the road, they stop in a small glade of trees to question the bandit. The ruffian refuses to talk. There is some discussion about what to do with the man, and Nobutada is within his rights to execute him. With a swift stroke of his sword, the bandit is sent into the afterlife. The heroes notice the man’s tattoos, which show odd disturbing figures that look like an octopus or a squid. Was it simply a random attack, or were the bandits hired to kill them? Nobutada suspects the latter, but can offer no clues as to who sent the killers.
Journey’s End and More Bad News
Many more days pass as the heroes head for the capital. The countryside is bright with the colors of late autumn, and the first chill winds of winter are beginning to blow. As they go deeper into the heart of the Empire, they pass many other travelers and entourages on the road. Finally, one afternoon, after weeks on the road, as they pass through the outlying villages and rice fields surrounding the capital, they see the sprawling mass of the Imperial City in the distance. It is at once one of the most beautiful and frightening things they’ve ever seen. Somewhere within the ancient city, the heroes intend to confront their destiny.
The heroes pass through the gates of the city and hire a lantern boy to take them to the estate of Naoya Ieyasu, the Boar clan representative in the Imperial Court. When they arrive, the servants are astonished, having had no news from Lord Ichijo for over two months. The head servant tells Nobutada that Naoya-sama is deathly ill and the heroes rush to see him.
The old man is indeed dying. Jozan examines him and determines that Naoya has been poisoned with a rare and difficult to detect toxin. Naoya recognizes Nobutada and struggles to speak. He welcomes the heroes but says they will find no allies in the city, and that all is lost; the Boar clan is finished. Then he pulls Nobutada close and with his dying breath whispers a dire warning in his ear.
The following morning, Jozan conducts funeral rites for Naoya. Later the heroes discuss what to do. They know they are in perhaps the most deadly battleground of all, and they have no idea who they can trust. One thing they decide to do is find out who, if anyone, is interested at all in the fact that some members of the Boar clan are still alive. Nobutada drafts a letter announcing their arrival and his assumption of Naoya-sama’s duties, and orders it sent to the embassies of the other clans, the intention being to see who replies or comes calling.
Naoya was scheduled for an audience with the Emperor the following week, so the heroes resolve to keep that appointment. Meanwhile, they set about tidying themselves up. Naoya-san had a store of money and the heroes use it to purchase new clothing and generally spruce up their gear. The eight surviving footmen are even given matching livery. When the heroes make their procession to the Imperial Palace, they hope to make a good impression.
And indeed they do! On the day of the audience, the heroes assemble in the courtyard of the estate. All are resplendent in new finery (at considerable cost). They leave the estate and make for the Imperial Palace. Their procession is quite a showstopper. The citizens of the Imperial City make way for the lords of the Boar clan.
They'd been through hell, so I gave them this little parade as a way to get some Glory points.
The Son of Heaven
At the gates of the Palace, Nobutada presents his invitation. It is carefully scrutinized and Nobutada explains about Naoya’s death and that he has assumed the position of ambassador. The heroes are allowed to enter. Inside, they seem to have entered a different world. Beyond the gate, there is very little hustle and bustle. Behind the high walls of the Palace, the noise of the city is absent. A finely dressed Imperial courtier greets them, and his speech and mannerisms are almost alien. Although the perfect mask of his face betrays no extraneous thoughts, the heroes can’t help but feel like out of place country bumpkins.
The courtier gives them instructions for when they meet His Imperial Majesty. “In the presence of the Son of Heaven, you will kneel at all times. You will speak only when spoken to, and you must refer to him as ‘Heika’. You will not meet his gaze directly, and you will not approach within 10 paces of him upon pain of death.”
Their weapons are politely taken away, and the courtier leads them into the Palace. The place is huge, and the heroes pass through several buildings, gardens, and chambers. Here and there they catch fleeting glimpses of people, servants, courtiers, guards, but all in passing like memories from a dream.
Finally, after several minutes, the courtier brings them to an immaculately kept garden deep inside the Palace grounds. Imperial guardsmen stand discreetly near all exits, and several courtiers wait quietly in the nearby chambers. Near a small pond in the garden, a young man in dazzling finery is playing kemari with a number of women. The courtier escort bows deeply and announces the heroes who fall to their knees and kowtow.
For several minutes, the boy, the Emperor, makes no acknowledgement of their presence. Finally, he stops giggling with his female friends and approaches the heroes. He considers them with a curious look on his face and directs Nobutada to speak.
My Emperor is 19 years old and already suffering from syphilis, so yeah, he's nuts - and callous and uncaring as well.
Summoning his best court language, Nobutada relates the sad tale of the fall of the Boar clan, and the new encroachment of the Shadowlands in the west, infusing his story with as much pathos as he can. When he finishes, he makes his plea, saying that only His Imperial Majesty can proclaim Nobutada as head of the clan, and thus restore the Boar to their rightful place.
The Emperor, seems distracted during Nobutada’s speech, fixing his gaze on Lady Kono. “Little flower,” he says to her. “Will you attend us later?”
Lady Kono nervously glances at the others. Everyone is surprised and a bit disturbed but they signal her to accept. “Yes, Your Majesty,” she replies.
The Emperor smiles wistfully and begins to slowly walk away. The heroes remain silent wondering what will happen next. Then the Emperor turns to them again and says, “Everything is in the hands of the Gods. We regret that We cannot help you, but such are the whims of the gods. Surely it is your destiny, and you must accept it as well all do.” Then he turns away again, adding, “You may go,” before returning to his playmates and their game.
The heroes back away and return to their escort, who begins to lead them away from the inner garden and the Emperor. On their way out Toshiro notices a Scorpion clan courtier watching them. The man does not smile, for that would show too much, but Toshiro can detect a hint of smug satisfaction on his face.
Our view pulls up and away from the heroes as they leave the Emperor’s presence, opening up to a view of the Imperial City of Heian-kyo, stretching out like a living creature in front of us.
___________
Lots of intrigue coming up next time. Plenty of opportunities for the good guys to dig themselves in deeper! I'm trying hard in this campaign to really let the PCs motivations and goals dictate how things unfold. So, I'm setting things up - describing the players and what their goals and motivations are - and letting the heroes insert themselves into the mix. Then it's just a matter of seeing how things turn out. I have some idea of where it might end up and I've planned some stuff for that if the players want to go that way. I have a pretty good sense for what they want though, and I mean to give it to them! They all seem to be enjoying it so far, so it's all good.
Gawd! AMAZING session today! Some great roleplaying and character moments, and tension by the bucketful! I promised opportunities for our heroes to dig themselves in deeper and indeed they are.
I haven't started the write-up yet (and I will soon) but to sum up, at the end of the session:
* the Emperor was dead.
* his brother, next in the line of succession was dead.
* the Dragon clan embassador to the Imperial Court was dead.
* the daimyo of the Lion Clan was dead.
And the PCs are running for their lives once again!
Only one of those casualties listed above was actually done in at the hands of one of the PCs - can you guess which one?
This has really become a great, epic game and we're all having a blast!
Whoa, long time since I updated this. Better late than never I suppose.
The campaign is really going well. Here're the write-ups on the latest two sessions. These are very long so I'm breaking them up into several posts.
The Hour of the Boar – Part 3
The Cornered Boar
Many Meetings
As the first chill winds of winter blow across the sprawling city of Heian-kyo, the heroes are settling in. A few days after their audience with the Emperor, Lady Kono is preparing to leave for the palace. She is nervous and frightened but willing to do her duty for the Boar clan. Nobutada reassures her and she promises she will write to him with any information that could help. The heroes see her off at the gate of their small estate.
Meanwhile, the letter announcing the Boar clan’s arrival has born fruit. The heroes are asked to meet with both the Lion Clan and the Dragon clan within the week. The Dragon clan has invited the heroes to a social gathering on the weekend a fortnight from now to recognize the start of the winter court season.
Jozan and Akiteru head for Tenryaku-ji, the great temple and library of the Imperial city. Here, Jozan meets the priest in charge of the library. They hit it off so well that Jozan receives almost total access to the archives he wants to see. Jozan settles into a daily routine of researching the dusty racks of scrolls, with Akiteru watching his back.
On Jozan's roll to persuade the priest, the player got 10's and just kept on rolling them! The final result was 97! On the first roll of the session. It was so amazing I just had the priest decide Jozan was like his long lost brother...
A few days later, they all go to the Lion clan embassy. As they enter, Toshiro is warmly welcomed, as are they all. Otomo Hideyori, the Lion clan ambassador greets them and invites everyone in, telling them they are graced with a special visitor, Lord Akodo, daimyo of the Lion clan itself. Toshiro realizes he may be having a private chat later on.
Otomo-san listens to the tale of their journey and all the dangers they’ve faced up to this point. But what Nobutada realizes is, Otomo wants to know where the heroes stand in terms of support for the Emperor. Nobutada gracefully avoids giving a direct answer (seeing as how he doesn’t really know where he stands himself). “Certainly,” Otomo says upon hearing the story of the heroes’ loyalty to their dead lord Ichijo, “Loyalty is a virtue that should not go unrewarded.” This being an allusion to a possible offer of help from the Lion clan if the heroes take their side.
Toshiro is indeed called to a private audience with Lord Akodo. The gruff daimyo seems troubled and distracted, casting furtive glances into the courtyard where Otomo entertains the other heroes. Something’s going on but Toshiro can’t suss out what. Lord Akodo asks Toshiro if he understands the reason he was ordered to protect the Boar clan leader. Toshiro says he does and that he knows exactly what his duty is. Lord Akodo looks at him piercingly and says that war is coming, the likes of which haven’t been seen in a very long time. The Lion clan, he says, has always been loyal to the Empire and that will never change. Is Toshiro ready to do all that is required for the clan? Toshiro answers, “Yes.” Lord Akodo wants Toshiro to maintain his position with the Boar clan members, and, “If necessary, you will do what you have to do.” This last is said as Lord Akodo glares at Otomo. Toshiro begs his leave and departs.
Forbidden Lore
Later Jozan is looking through the library scrolls and comes across a piece of the puzzle he’s trying to figure out. He finds a reference to the Nameless One that indicates more information in another scroll entitled “Goju’s Celestial Agonies.” This scroll is nowhere to be found, and Jozan suspects it may be held in a restricted part of the library. He goes to talk to the head librarian again, and the old monk warns Jozan about digging too deep into long forbidden secrets. At the same time, if no one were meant to read those texts, why keep them? At any rate, he allows Jozan to see the scroll. It is kept in a vault beneath the floor of the library. As Jozan rolls it out on the reading table, a shiver goes up his spine.
The book is hideous and blasphemous indeed, and the illustrations accompanying the text are equally disturbing.
Jozan finds what he’s looking for – background information on the Nameless One, and learns something of its history and nature, or at least, what can be gleaned from the ravings of the madman that wrote this account. Akushin-kage may be an avatar of the Nameless One, or manifestation of that entity. Regardless, Jozan begins to form a better picture of this enigmatic enemy that seems to somehow be involved in their fates. Who is really pulling the strings?
Enter the Scorpion
As Jozan and Akiteru leave the library, a messenger approaches them and gives a note to Akiteru. He says it is from, “The lady across the street.” Indeed it is. Through the hustle and bustle of the street, Akiteru can see an attractive young woman with her back to him, but catches an ever so demure glance from her. The letter says her name is Bayushi Michiko, and after hearing about the Boar clan’s daring escape and long journey, (the story has gotten around) she wanted to meet Ichijo Akiteru, who “featured so prominently” in the tale.
Akiteru approaches her and she plays it coyly. He thanks her for her letter and she invites him to her estate for tea. Jozan notes that she is a member of the Scorpion clan, which raises a red flag!
Later Akiteru is about to go off to meet Michiko. The other heroes give him some friendly advice about how to handle this situation. Obviously, thinks Jozan, she’s some kind of spy who wants to “pump” Akiteru for information. Nobutada wryly suggests Akiteru “stand tall,” but to remember that the Scorpion can’t be trusted. The young samurai is a bit embarrassed but is ready to do his duty for the Boar clan.
This little bit of character interplay had us all laughing at the double entendres.
At Michiko’s house, part of the Scoprion clan’s estate in the city, Akiteru and Michiko enjoy a walk in the garden, followed at a discreet distance by a rather dire looking Scorpion bushi standing guard. Akiteru and Michiko talk, and she seems fascinated by him. She wants to see Akiteru again, and suggests another meeting in the future. Akiteru agrees.
In the Dragon’s Lair
A few days later, as snow begins to fall on the city, the heroes prepare to go to the Dragon clan’s gathering. When they arrive, they see that there are guests from several clans in the courtyard including an emissary from the Phoenix clan and some Scorpion clan members as well. Akiteru cannot help but recognize Michiko among them, and she gives him a pleased smile.
Katsu Tetsuya, the Dragon clan ambassador welcomes the heroes heartily. He says he’s very glad they came and there is much to discuss. Katsu goes on for a while making a great show of generosity and friendship. Again, Nobutada realizes though the haze of small talk, that he’s once again being sounded out for his position on the Emperor.
Toshiro decides to see what the Phoenix are up to and approaches a rather uncomfortable looking woman. Despite her beautiful kimono and ladylike appearance, she carries herself as a bushi. Toshiro introduces himself to Lady Asano Miyoko. She doesn’t seem to be enjoying herself much. Toshiro gets the idea that she’s there simply to show the flag and display a show of allegiance with the Dragon clan.
Suddenly, there is a commotion at the gate. The guards are straightening up, and everyone seems to compose themselves; someone important has arrived. In comes a palanquin, clearly decorated as only a member of the Imperial house could warrant. Out steps Prince Takasu Shijo, the brother of the Emperor, Takasu Norihito (Emperor Antoku). Everyone kneels and bows deeply. Katsu escorts the Prince inside the house, and a few minutes later, Nobutada is asked to join them. It’s game time.
Whispers of Betrayal
The Prince tells Nobutada he was impressed with the Boar clan’s story, and disappointed to hear that their petition to the Emperor was dismissed. Katsu-san agrees. To have come so far and leave empty-handed, such a shame. The heroes, he says, have done so much and honored their fallen lord with their dedication to returning the Boar clan to its rightful place. Prince Takasu knows the Boar clan needs help and might be willing to speak to the Emperor on their behalf. Katsu says that tension between the clans is growing and, no disrespect intended, a small clan like theirs could use the pull of a Great Clan in the Imperial Court, and the favor of a member of the Imperial House would go a very long way toward getting what they want. The alliance between the Lion and the Crane can’t last. The Lion are loyal to the Empire and the Crane loyal to the Emperor and of course Nobutada can see the distinction can’t he?
Nobutada knows what they’re saying to him. It’s clear to him that Prince Takasu wants to get rid of his brother and become Emperor, and has the backing of the Dragon clan (and maybe the Phoenix clan?) to do it. Though they haven’t said it outright, their offer is clear enough. “Support our coup, and we’ll give you back your title.” Nobutada smiles conspiratorily, deftly gives a non-committal answer but makes it sound like he’s on their side. “Excellent,” says Katsu. “When we require your service, you will be ready.”
There's nothing like having the players develop a real dislike for the bad guys in a campaign. I was a bit surprised (but pleased) at how much they all really despised Katsu and the Prince!
Back outside, Michiko approaches Akiteru and says she can’t wait until next week, she wants to see him later tonight! Akiteru agrees with his heart in his throat.
The heroes leave the gathering, and head home to talk things over. Over a short tea ceremony conducted by Jozan they discuss what’s going on. It’s clear to them that the great clans are trying to gather as much support as they can. Why anyone would be interested in the remnants of the Boar is a mystery, but they wouldn’t be if they didn’t think the Boar were good for something. None of the heroes likes the idea that they’re being played. They don’t know what’s coming, but they’re all watching out for it.
Midnight Confession
After the discussion, Akiteru excuses himself to go make his midnight meeting with Michiko, to the knowing grins of his compatriots. Akiteru makes his way to a toney ryokan near the embassy quarter. The guard outside lets him in without any trouble. Michiko is there and in the darkened room, she confesses that she was supposed to spy on them, but was so taken with Akiteru’s righteousness as a samurai she just couldn’t do it anymore. She most definitely has developed feelings for him. As much as Akiteru tries to resist his own urges, he gives in. The servant discreetly closes the shoji on the two as the candle in the room goes out.
Later, Michiko tells Akiteru that he’s in great danger. The Lion clan may seem like allies, but Lord Otomo is apparently in the controlling grip of Lady Sumire, a member of one of the Imperial families.
Another twist everyone liked was turning the Scorpion cliche on its head. Yeah, yeah, everyone expects the Scorpion to be treacherous, but now Michiko is on their side. Well, Akiteru's side really. A lot of potential developments to be had here!
New Year’s Convocation
A few weeks later, the New Year has come. The Emperor is holding a great convocation of all the clans to discuss the coming year. It is to be a week of religious rites and ceremonies where all the Great and Minor clans, along with the Imperial House, get together for a good strong bout of politicking!
The heroes receive an invitation, much to their surprise, since the Boar clan is such a minor clan now (and indeed nearly extinct). Nobutada finds out through channels that Prince Takasu saw to it that they received an invitation. The heroes prepare themselves for a week’s stay as guests in the Imperial Palace.
Upon arrival, the heroes are given guest quarters in the outer palace grounds. There is an air of pageantry as representatives from all the clans, great and small, arrive. Not insensitive to current politics, the Imperial House quarters groups from rival clans in separate wings.
Nobutada’s Mercy
One benefit of going to the palace is that the heroes can meet with Lady Kono, who they haven’t seen in several weeks. She is happy to see them, but Jozan notices a haunted look in her eyes. Lady Kono asks to speak privately with her cousin, Nobutada, and they walk slowly into the large courtyard outside the heroes’ quarters.
When asked about the goings on in the Palace, Lady Kono tells all she knows, which isn’t much more than what everyone already knows about the political situation despite the fact that the Emperor makes her share his bed. But she does know about the Emperor himself, and far more than she wishes. With tears forming in her eyes, she relates her treatment at the Emperor’s hands to Nobutada. She pulls her kimono off her neck slightly to show Nobutada the bruises there, and also on her arms. The Emperor, she says, did this in a perversion of love-making, his insanity brought on by the Black Madness, syphilis, and now, she is also infected. But more than that, she says, she has no honor or face left to show the Boar clan. She collapses in tears and begs Nobutada for permission to take her own life.
It is a difficult moment for Nobutada. The Emperor’s malady is something of an open secret that no one dares bring up in public or in polite conversation. He also realizes how weak the Emperor really is, and knows something is going to happen soon.
At the same time, and more importantly, he feels a deep sense of anger and shame for what happened to his cousin, for it was he who sent her there. Nobutada gently tells Lady Kono that it is not her fault, if anything the blame lies with him, and that she has done nothing but bring honor upon her house. He tells her life is still worth living, for she is perhaps the only reminder of the beauty of their homeland. Nobutada composes a poem on the spot for her.
The demure sunflower
Beaten down by the rain
Turns away from the sun
But keeps it in the corner of her eye
Lady Kono finds her spirits so lifted that she apologizes for despairing, and stands up proud once again. The Boar clan is not giving up yet, and neither should she. As for her infection, surely there must be something Jozan can do, and if there isn’t well, they’ll find someone who can help. As for the Emperor…
This whole scene was intended to really get the PCs to put the hate on for the Emperor, given what I was hoping to spring on them later. The looks on their faces as this played out told me I had them. Nobutada's poem was so appropriate, and genuinely heartfelt, I think I was getting a bit choked up.
A couple of days pass. The heroes spend time attending banquets and getting to know the members of the other delegations. The lines are definitely being drawn; the Lion and the Crane allied as loyalists, and the Dragon and Phoenix allied as rebels, with the Unicorn looking to join forces with whoever can put them on top (though they are tipping towards the rebels) and the Crab trying to stay aloof. Each power bloc is gathering as many minor clans to itself as it can. It is clear that the situation is a tinderbox waiting for a spark to set it off.
As for the heroes themselves, they know when they’re just pawns in a big game of shogi; everyone seems to want them on their side, but what do they want the heroes to do? Nobutada remembers Lord Katsu’s pleased smile when he said, “When the time comes, you will be ready.” Many people seem to feel that, given the ill-fortune of the Boar clan, the heroes are probably leaning toward the rebels.
Challenge From the Crane
The following day, during an afternoon gathering, a move is made against them. Yet again, the heroes are asked to speak of their plight, and discuss their journey. While Nobutada makes a great speech, one person is unimpressed. A Crane samurai named Kakita Akechi questions the heroes’ choices, and casts doubt on their courage and honor. His insults are not as rough as that of Lord Honjo’s drunken warrior Months ago, but they are insults nonetheless and quite pointed. A challenge has been presented, and Nobutada accepts, though as a courtier, he has the right to name a second. He considers nominating Akiteru, but Toshiro is really the best choice for this, and the Lion samurai is more than willing to accept. With the particulars worked out, everyone retires for the day. The duel will be fought at dawn.
Later Nobutada learns that Kakita Akechi was seen speaking with Otomo Hideyori, the Lion clan ambassador. The heroes feel that this move must have been made against Toshiro, knowing that Nobutada would nominate a second, perhaps to get him out of the way of any moves against the Boar clan survivors. The Dragon and Phoenix could be behind it but now the disturbing possibility that someone in the Lion clan is pulling the strings is raised.
In the morning, a small crowd has gathered in the snowy courtyard. Before going out there, Jozan holds a tea ceremony for Toshiro to help him center his spirit. The Phoenix samurai Toshiro met earlier, Lady Asano is there and she gives Toshiro a respectful nod and a knowing look.
This duel is to be to first blood, yet when you fast draw with a three-foot ribbon of razor sharp steel, first blood can be an awful lot of blood! The heroes look on tensely as Toshiro and Akechi square off. They bow to each other, then assume a ready stance. Their eyes meet, and it’s on. For several minutes, both of them stare unmoving at each other. Neither is about to back down. Toshiro can sense the Crane is going to go for the kill. Finally, something in Akechi’s eyes gives it away and he makes his move.
Toshiro’s sword flashes out of its scabbard in a perfect draw, and like that, it’s over and Toshiro completes the movement by sheathing his sword once again. Kakita Akechi is left gasping, clutching his bleeding sword arm, his weapon lying in the snow. The Crane pulls himself up painfully and the two duelists bow once again. The Lion has again fought to protect the Boar.
What can I say? Since we started the campaign, Toshiro's player was absolutely chomping at the bit for a scene like this one. So, why not give him what he wanted? It was a very cool, iconic sort of scene.
As night falls on the evening before the Emperor’s big address to the assembled clans, the palace is abuzz with gossip and news of the courtyard duel. But the heroes are unconcerned. They know that someone is actively working against them, and that even those they consider allies may not be trustworthy. One thing they do know; the stakes in the game are getting higher.
And boy do I like playing for high stakes! If you're gonna make things epic, you just have to put it all on the line and put the characters at the center of the whole freaking universe. This story is evolving as we go along, but everyone wants to see their characters do something big and epic. Again, I mean to give 'em what they want!
Boiling Point
Near midnight, a messenger from Lord Katsu arrives at the heroes’ chambers. Lord Katsu has invited them to a secret meeting in the interior Palace. The heroes know things are about to come to a head. They know it has to be some kind of trap. They know they have to go. Lady Kono asks them why they must go if it is a trap. Nobutada tells her that if the gods will it that they should die tonight, then that is karma. They need to stay on top of what’s going on. She wants to go with them, but Nobutada denies her, saying that if they do not return, she is the only person who could restore the Boar clan, and that is the duty she must accept. She does. The heroes, armed only with their wakizashi, head off to the secret meeting.
They make their way quietly into the interior of the Palace. Strangely, there seem to be no guardsmen around. The whole place is dark and silent, as the heroes see a pair of Dragon bushi standing outside one of the chambers. The heroes enter and the door slides shut. From another doorway steps the Dragon ambassador Katsu Testuya, holding a sheathed sword.
“I’m glad you’re here. The time has come,” he says. With that, another door slides open and the Emperor falls unceremoniously through it to lie battered and dazed on the floor. He is followed by his brother Prince Takasu Shijo. Everyone tenses.
“Yes,” Katsu says. “The time has come. The Boar clan can be restored if you will join us. Everything that was once yours will be so again, and much more!” He holds the sword out to Nobutada.
Then Prince Takasu speaks. “It is time for the Empire to be rid of the shame that stains its very being. While the Empire is beset with dangers, this young sybarite whiles away the days dallying with his concubines. He shames us all with his taste for common whores, whose tainted blood now pollutes even those of noble rank. He ignores his duties and responsibilities and rewards only those who stroke his pathetic ego, ignoring the valiant efforts of all those who sacrifice themselves in his name. When I am Emperor, I will see to it that my loyal servants are properly rewarded.”
“Indeed, my friend,” Katsu says. “Your valor and the valor of your retainers is most admirable. But this syphilitic upstart cannot see what a valuable asset you are to the Empire. You can help the Empire and reclaim your honor and that of Lady Kono’s in but one stroke. Join us.”
The heroes are like tightly coiled springs. The Dragon guards are covering the exits, and the heroes aren’t sure what is going to happen next.
Neither was I! That was it, right there - I put the whole campaign in the hands of the players, specifically, Nobutada's player. What would he do? I honestly didn't know. Everything that happened after that I was improvising on the spot, so I was as tense as the players were!
Somewhere, a line has been crossed. Nobutada looks at the Emperor lying on the floor and thinks of Lady Kono. He looks at the Prince standing over him, and finally at Katsu Testuya. Nobutada casts a quick glance at his friends and gives them a knowing look. He turns back to Katsu and extends his hands to take the sword, giving the Dragon a smile. Katsu grins and hands it over.
Then Nobutada draws the sword and cuts Katsu down in a welter of blood! “Assassins!!” Nobutada yells. Having surprised their enemies, the heroes move to attack. Toshiro leaps on Prince Takasu who is raising his sword to cut the Emperor down himself. With his wakizashi, Toshiro impales Prince Takasu through the throat and the usurper goes down spraying blood onto the walls and tatami.
Akiteru and Jozan set upon the two Dragon guards on the door. In a heartbeat, Toshiro grabs up Prince Takasu’s fallen sword and takes the head off of another guard at the back of the room. Jozan invokes the kami and the earth flows up from under the floor into his hand forming a tetsubo with which he proceeds to dispatch another Dragon with a crushing blow. The remaining guard goes down to Akiteru’s blade.
Wow! Stunning! I thought Nobutada was going to go cut down the Emperor and join the coup, but the good guys really didn't like the usurpers at all! The atmosphere at the table was so tense, there was a sigh of relief as the fight ended, but the ball was still in play! No stopping now!
Unwelcome Reunion
The palace is starting to wake up. The heroes have only moments before they are discovered. Hoping still to gain the Emperor’s favor they turn to defend him but are stunned to see the Emperor pinned to the tatami with a sword through his back; Lord Ichijo’s sword. They rush to the Emperor but the boy is dead. Things are happening too fast. Who killed him? He was still alive just a moment ago. Then they hear a familiar laugh.
From the shadowy corner of the room, a figure emerges. The unmistakable Girajoda cocks his head at them, his mad yellow eyes glaring out from behind the serene mask he wears.
“You’ve surprised me again, Nobutada-sama. I was sure you were going to save me the trouble,” he says pointing at the Emperor’s body.
“Sorry to disappoint you. But we’re through with this game,” Nobutada says.
“The game is just beginning my friend,” Girajoda says and the heroes know the smug bastard is smiling behind that mask. “But I’ve said too much already so I’ll leave the rest up to you.” Girajoda’s form blurs, and then he is gone. Guards are thundering down the hall. Nobutada quickly pulls Lord Ichijo’s blade out of the Emperor (replacing it with Prince Takasu’s). Then the door slams open, and instead of Imperial guardsmen, Dragon troops pile into the room. Someone yells, “Kill them!”
I love Girajoda. He's becoming a really great foil for the heroes, and the enigma surrounding him is really starting to draw the players in. I haven't even statted him up - the players know he's far above their level of skill. But in the end, I'm going to have to because I'm quite sure they'll want a final confrontation with him. This sequence was happening so fast I was having trouble keeping up with it myself!
The heroes run for it. Crashing through the palace chambers, they race toward the outer palace. Arrows from their pursuers thud into the walls. It seems the Dragon coup is fully underway, and the guardsmen are awakening to find Dragon blades at their necks. As the heroes enter the outer courtyard they can see that the palace is falling into chaos. Here and there, samurai cut each other down in the dark. Screams of pain, anger, and terror fill the air. Somewhere a fire has started.
The heroes run for the Lion clan quarters. Seeing dead Lion guards outside the door, they burst unceremoniously into Lord Akodo’s chamber. The daimyo lies dead on his futon, murdered in his sleep. They run outside to see Lord Otomo rallying some Lion bushi, and their eyes meet, and in that moment, they understand the Lion clan s no longer an ally. Otomo commands his men to shoot them down. Arrows fly through the air at the heroes as they now run for their own quarters.
I hadn't decided what to do about the Lion clan til that very moment. I wanted to put Toshiro into a quandry about his loyalties and I saw my chance. Otomo is going to take over the Lion and denounce Toshiro in absentia. Plus he's being manipulated by Lady Sumire (who hasn't come on stage yet) anyway. Maybe I'm getting ahead of myself, but GMing by the seat of your pants is like that sometimes.
The Palace is in chaos. The Dragon clan is pressing their coup, decimating the Imperial guard, with the help of the Phoenix clan. The various embassies are either out fighting for their lives or simply trying to hold the doors shut against any attackers. But in the dark it’s hard to tell friend from foe. Somewhere a fire has started within the palace grounds adding to the panic.
Across the courtyard they see Lady Kono and Rikyo come out of their guest quarters. Some of their own Boar footmen are protecting them from a group of attackers (it’s hard to see who they are). The heroes charge into the assailants and make short work of them. They’ve shaken any immediate pursuers so the Boar clan heads for the gate.
In the general chaos that has engulfed the palace, they are able to get out and go back to their estate. They can see that the Palace is indeed on fire, and in the Embassy Quarter of the city, a few other official residences are aflame – the action has not been limited to the palace only. The city has awakened and the fire brigades rush through the streets. When they reach their estate, it is a flaming pyre and the fire brigades have already abandoned it.
The heroes catch their breath and take a moment to decide what to do. It’s a simple decision – run. They head for the storehouse and stables which haven’t been burned and grab as much supplies as they can. While they hurriedly stock up, grabbing food, their weapons, and some armor, Akiteru looks back at the Palace and wonders if he shouldn’t go back and try to find Michiko.
Before he can do anything about it it’s time to leave. The heroes put the spurs to their horses and thunder out of the city into the snow-covered countryside and toward an uncertain destiny. The sun rises as the Empire awakens to chaos and civil war.
An all-out amazing session, filled with some of the most tense scenes I've played in years! The players all did a fantastic job of portraying their characters and allowing their motivations to drive the story forward. By not plotting the story, and hitting the players with decision points, it's more exciting for me as well, since I don't really know which way they're going to go. After it was over, everyone said they enjoyed the feeling that the whole world was falling apart around them and they were doing everything they could just to stay alive. They also said it was the best session yet and they're eager for more!
I was really happy I had managed to hit certain character beats and keep the tension building throughout the session. When everything finally cut loose in the last scenes, we went from 0-60 in 3 seconds, it was such a release. I was also happy with my pacing and intercutting of events.
I'm ladling out the XPs btw (about 24 total for each character this session - I was doing about 14 earlier), since we're looking at only two sessions more tops before the big finish (the final, sixth session won't count for XPs of course) I'm trying to get the characters up in rank quickly. I'd be going a lot slower if we were playing more often, like weekly or bi-weekly, but we aren't, and some members of the group will be leaving next year, so I'm aiming for a wrap up in March or April (assuming we keep playing once a month).
Thanks to those of you who've read this far!
So, stay tuned for the latter half of this campaign and see if the Boar clan fulfill their destiny!
I don't know where it was centered and I think it was pretty far away, but it was a 5.0 and strong enough to send us all heading for the door! 
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