Session 61 (Played January 7, 2007)

Synopsis

The Unconquered Sun arrives in Kirighast in the month of Ascending Fire. The Admiral and Monkey are greeted by one of the Leopard Seat's advisors, one Wise Imbata, and are given quarters near the Seat's palace in the Old City, as well as the services of two Lesser Drums as guides. They meet the chief priest of the Unconquered Sun in Kirighast, Soto, briefly. The evening is spent in a banquet at the Leopard Seat's court, where the Admiral makes diplomatic contact with most of the major players: The Guild factor Hiala, the Leopard Seat, and the Realm ambassador, Cathak Boruta. Meanwhile, Monkey is distracted by Cathak Imani, a young Dynastic beauty, and wanders with her into the palace gardens, where they are attacked by assassins. Monkey handily defeats the assassins, but Imani is wounded. Monkey takes her to the Unconquered Sun for patching up, then returns her to the Satrap's Palace.

Cast of Characters

Cathak Boruta, Realm envoy to Harborhead (first appearance)
Cathak Imani, Boruta's niece (first appearance)
Cathak Temalin, Boruta's wife (first appearance)
Hiala, Guild factor (first appearance)
Lami, Lesser Drum assigned to assist Kaizoku (first appearance)
Laughing Dolphin, Drum of the Leopard Seat (first appearance)
The Leopard Seat, ruler of Harborhead (first appearance)
Robin, the Unconquered Sun's surgeon (first appearance)
Semuda Beni, Cathak Boruta's secretary (first appearance)
Soto, high priest of Sol Invictus (first appearance)
Stalking Lioness, commander of the Harborhead Royal Guard (first appearance)
Unjani, Lesser Drum assigned to assist Kaizoku (first appearance)
Wide Grass, priest of the Sol Invictus (first appearance)
Wise Imbata, Drum of the Leopard Seat (first appearance)
Yasurbo, Drum of the Leopard Seat (first appearance)

Edited Log

It is Ascending Fire, and the harbor of Kirighast glitters under the Unconquered Sun's light. Across the water, Taiyo Kaizoku's mighty flagship slides, a shark among minnows. It is truly the mightiest vessel to have graced this city in centuries. On the pier ahead, you see a small group of dignitaries, escorted by Brides of Ahlat. They are waiting for you. The ship pulls alongside under the Admiral's mental command and stops silently. The crew runs out the gangplank with perfect teamwork. It thuds onto the stone of the pier. The dignitaries look at one another and then up at the ship. One swallows nervously.

Monkey senses that the ship has stopped. He opens his eyes, "Are we there yet? We are there!" and springs up from his hammock and races outside.

Admiral Kaizoku cuts a figure as impressive as his ship, burning with the majesty of the sun as he walks to to the top fo the gangplank and spreads his arms wide. He's wearing a dress version of his normal uniform, a cloth-of-gold coat that goes down to the knees, finely tailored, with shoulder boards, but only one medal, a gold starburst with an amber gemstone in the center. "Come aboard, by all means!" he says, stepping back and to one side, gesturing onto the ship with a small smile on his face.

Monkey says, "Can I come down? Never been in Harborhead before, lots of things to see."

Monkey says, "You're gonna show the ship to them, right? I already know everything about the ship, so how about I go shopping?"

Admiral Kaizoku says "Now now, patience, Monkey... these are our hosts, and they'll surely invite is to a party once we show them our ship. Besides, they might be unsettled by Creation's greatest warrior walking around their city." His smile is a bit forced now.

Monkey says, "Bummer."

Admiral Kaizoku rolled on something and got 1 success.

Monkey is sad because his plan to look for this famed Ahlat without Kaizoku looking over his shoulder has been spoiled.

One of the women in the group takes the lead. She's old, probably well into her seventies if not older, and walks with the assistance of a cane, but there's fire in her eyes as she hobbles up the gangplank. The others follow. She comes aboard and bows as best she can to the Admiral. "Welcome to the city of Kirighast and the nation of Harborhead, Great Admiral. As a Drum of the Leopard Seat, I extend the hand of courtesy to you."

Admiral Kaizoku inclines his head politely to her. "As the Admiral of the Solar Wind Fleet, I accept your hand in courtesy and hope for a beneficial friendship for ourselves and our nations. Come, let me show you one of the wonders of the lost age that I am working to restore to creation."

Monkey says, "Welcome to Unconquered Sun."

The old woman says, "Thank you. I am Imbata, sometimes called wise. These are Yasurbo, and Laughing Dolphin. We are among the Drums of the Leopard Seat. Stalking Lioness and her companions of the Brides of Ahlat accompany us." She indicates her two male companions and the chief of the Brides as she makes introductions. "Lami and Unjani are Lesser Drums who have volunteered to act as guides to the city while you are here."

Monkey says, "Great! Lami, unjani, what is the best winery in Harborhead and where is it?"

Admiral Kaizoku speaks as he begins to walk. "The fierce prowess of the Brides of Ahlat is well-known in the North. My combat chief Monkey has been looking forward to meeting them... and other aspects of your city." He smiles tolarantly as he pauses next to the central paddlewheel.

Monkey cocks his head as he hear Kaizoku mention the brides, but quickly settles back on important matters of state, "That's probably too far to visit. We don't have that many days. I will have to settle for a shop that carries their wine. You wouldn't mind taking me there, would you?

Stalking Lioness is clearly not a diplomat. "Here, we have heard much of the prowess of the Children of the Sun." She looks like she wants to say more, but doesn't.

Monkey says, "Hey, Admiral, I don't suppose a side trip to iGoli could be squeezed into our plan?"

Admiral Kaizoku ahs. "The most... colorful tales of the Children of the Sun come from the children of the fork-tongued" he remarks, alluding to the Dyansts of the Blessed Isle. "Our prowess is not exaggerated, but our habits often are" he tells her. "Perhaps not on this trip, but should we become great and good friends with Harborhead and her peoples, I anticipate returning often."

Monkey says, "Sweet! Now, Unjani, now that that issue has been settled, we must move on to another important issues. Namely, good food. You've been on a ship for long journeys before? No? Well, trust me when I say the food is boring. Can't be helped. One ship, in the middle of the ocean. Preserved stuffs and fish."

Monkey says, "But now that we're on shore again, how about you show me that Harborhead cuisine?"

Admiral Kaizoku leads the group past the massive Heavy Essence Cannon that towers over the rear of the ship. "By no means!" he says. "Let us go to the quarters you have so graciously provided. Monkey! Assemble the shore party and then we shall break our fast."

Unjani says, "The royal kitchens will certainly have prepared dinner tonight, but a true feast must await a royal hunt."

Monkey says, "Aye aye! You, find Norio and tell her to pick a talon of honor guard to accompany Admiral Kaizoku to the palace."

Admiral Kaizoku finishes up the tour at the gangplank. "Another thing to look forward to" he says of the royal hunt, letting the diplomatic party disembark first, following them with the honor guard after.

Monkey says, "Oh, tell her she's coming too and bring whoever else she thinks useful. And don't forget the gifts."

The sumptuous quarters are just that. They are a pair of buildings, richly appointed with a courtyard garden and plenty of room for your entire entourage. It is across the plaza from the Palace of the Leopard Seat, and not too far from the famed Street of Palms. Towering overhead, you can see the Fane of the Upswept Horns that dominates the old city from its central hill. Wise Imbata and the other diplomats leave you to get settled, while Lami and Unjani stay in the garden, available if you should need them. There are no other occupants of the house.

Admiral Kaizoku takes a good look at the palace out the window. As the guard unpacks, he turns to Lami and Unjani, hands clasped behind his back. "I'm sure this house has a rich and storied past... would you care to share it?" he asks mildly.

The two Harborheadites look at each other. Lami shifts a little on the stool she's sitting on, and Unjani looks everywhere but at you. "Um... well, it's about five hundred years old," Lami says. "It was built by a rich merchant who was later executed by the Realm in the revolt. It's been an annex of the Palace since then."

Admiral Kaizoku sits down on a stool, facing them, a warm smile on his face. "So I see. And what of yourselves? Is this your first time acting as diplomatic aides?" he asks lightly. "What do you do while not escorting visitors to your great city?"

Unjani smiles a bit and says, "Nothing so exciting. We are both minor functionaries of the Leopard Seat, tasked with whatever needs doing in foreign relations. This is why we both speak Rivertongue, for example."

Monkey yawns and says, "I'm going to sleep. Wake me up when it's time for dinner."

Admiral Kaizoku chats them up and puts them at ease for an hour or so, using skills he rarely employs.

During the siesta hours, Kaizoku talks Lami and Unjani into a semblance of friendship, and learns what he can about local politics. He finds that things are tense, not least because of his presence. The Realm is leaning heavily on the Leopard Seat, who is himself insecure in his power and looking to shore it up by whatever means he can. A Realm delegation lead by the famous general Cathak Boruta is presently installed in the Satrap's Palace. And everyone's worrying that this rebel in the south, the Ishadhi, will really turn out to be a chosen of Ahlat. So, things are not easy.

By the time Kaizoku finishes talking to them, the hour is late and the sun nearly set. The cool of evening is beginning to show itself, and Monkey is nearly climbing the walls from sheer impatience. He would surely have run off already if not for Norio challenging him to games of skill to keep him occupied.

Admiral Kaizoku brings out his extra-dressy dress coat, and a matching hat as well. Now comes Monkey's ultimate challenge... of dressing himself up!

Just as you're about to set out for the palace, a very small group shows up at the guest house. It is only three people, and one is obviously a mere servant. The other two are priests... of the Unconquered Sun.

Monkey doesn't see the point of dressing any more different than usual.

The two priests are similar in appearance, natives of Harborhead and male, dressed in white with sun-pendants. They wear small caps, typical of what you've seen on the street. Both are on the small side, with shoulder-length curly black hair and dark brown skin. One has a beaded bracelet. They look a little out of breath.

The slightly taller one walks up to Kaizoku and bows deeply. "Great one, I welcome you to the city of Kirighast. We are honored by the presence of a Golden Bull and a Bronze Tiger in this land. May we accompany you to the banquet?"

Admiral Kaizoku lifts a finger to his brow, where his caste mark would be. Not showing any surprise, he says "Be at peace and relax" when the man rises up again. "It pleases me to see the word of the Sun being spread in this land. Tell me of yourself and your efforts."

The taller one -- still only an inch taller than Monkey, as it happens -- says, "My name is Soto, and this is my fellow priest Wide Grass. I am the head priest of the temple of the Unconquered Sun in Kirighast."

"As the people of Harborhead have always recognized the Sun's supremacy in the heavens, we have tended to their needs in this city in his name," he adds.

Monkey says, "That's good. Right?"

Monkey says, "But what brings you here? The Leopard Seat is expecting us, so make it quick, or we'll be late."

Admiral Kaizoku says "The blessings of the Sun on you. Come in, please." He ushers them into the house. "Now, our truth must be put forth, but against centuries of lies, it must be done with care and cunning. To bring you to this party would bring the Sun in as an unwelcome guest. To bring the powerful of the city to my own celebration, which you will attend, would have them as the Sun's guests."

Soto nods. "Though we are often overshadowed by the worship of Ahlat -- he is the patron of Harborhead, not the Unconquered Sun -- we are never forgotten. We will, then await your return if it is your will."

Admiral Kaizoku nods his head. "It would please me greatly for you to share your experiences with my faithful crew as you await my return."

The two priests and their servant acquiesce, and you head on to the palace of the Leopard Seat.

Cut to the shindig. It's a big dinner, in your honor, and the first thing you notice is the small group of Dynasts, pointedly seated on the far side of the great hall from where you've been placed. This is probably a wise precaution by the planners... Looking around the hall, you see the Leopard Seat and the one who sits upon it at the head of the hall. Around him are seated a variety of well-dressed, wealthy looking Harborheadites -- the Drums of the Seat. Then are seated yourself on the one side of the hall, and on the other are the Dynasts. Rounding things out are lesser nobles and some visiting dignitaries from other powers -- a tough-looking middle-aged woman who appears to be some kind of merchant, a man who you are informed is the Varangian ambassador, and so on.

You are seated on low couches and attended by well-trained slaves. In the center of the circle of attendees is a great fire, and on the walls of the great hall are paintings and sculptures of Harborhead's history, emphasizing the martial glory of the nation and its god. Dancers and musicians perform in between you and fire, and a low buzz of conversation underlies the music.

The first part of the dinner proceeds without incident -- clearly, this is a time to be seen, not to act. It is after the food is largely cleared away that the Leopard Seat stands and begins to speak.

He's a strong-featured man, powerfully built, and though he's obviously mortal, even from here you can feel the force of his charisma. "Countrymen and friends from foreign lands. The land of Harborhead stands at a crucial juncture in its history. The events of this time will determine whether our nation becomes a power among the states of Creation -- or the slaves of outsiders. It is with great pleasure, then, that I see who comes to us as friends." He goes on in this vein for a few minutes, then says, "But enough of politics! Let us speak of better things. Tomorrow I embark on a great hunt throughout the country. For the fortune of this hunt, an entertainment." He waves toward the back of the hall.

From there, a large party of dancers comes in. They begin enacting a ritual hunt. It's quite good, as far as entertainment goes, and during it, people begin to mingle a bit. No one has the nerve to approach you quite yet, however.

Monkey mingles with the crowd, hitting on the lovely ladies.

Admiral Kaizoku rises and brushes any stray crumbs off his coat. "Do try not to cause any incidents with the young ladies..." he says heading over to the nearest clump of people.

It's to be expected, really, that the most attractive woman in this hall is, in fact, one of the Dynasts. She's young, maybe not a Dragon-blooded -- if she is, she's not very powerful yet. She's also clearly peeved at her fellow Dynasts, since she's off sulking away from anyone who might try to cheer her up. She looks about seventeen, dressed in a ceremonial breastplate and cotton skirt, both green. The badge of House Cathak adorns her clothing. A sword hangs at her side.

Monkey walks purposely towards the woman and squats right in front of her and looks up into her face. "Yeah, I totally agree. Boring useless party. Why'd they even listen at those old men prattling instead of doing what is common sense, right?

The girl says, "What? Who are you?

Monkey says, "Most people call me Monkey. Some people calls me nastier names, but I hope you won't listen to them."

Monkey says, "And what about you?"

The girl says, "My name is Imani, of House Cathak. Are... are you Anathema?"

Monkey shrugs, "Beats me. I've been told I am, but I don't feel like one."

Monkey says, "You are welcome to try and take my head off if you feel strongly about it, but I have a peculiar emotional attachment to it though."

Monkey says, "So I'd rather you not try. At least not until you've known me enough to make your own judgment."

Monkey says, "But anyway, how about we ditch the party? That way, even if you take my head off, it won't be too gauche."

Imani looks at you warily. "It's a diplomatic function. Uncle told me not to fight anyone without his permission." She glances over at the Dynastic party. It seems no one's paying attention to her. "I shouldn't leave."

Monkey says, "Bah, tell them I kidnapped you. Then even if you take my head off, it'll be self-defense."

Monkey stands up and grabs her wrist and drags her away from the party.

As Kaizoku approaches, the tough-looking woman turns away from her dinner companion and rises to greet him. She doesn't look particularly friendly. "Ah, the infamous Admiral Kaizoku. Welcome to Harborhead." she says.

Admiral Kaizoku takes that comment in stride. "It is good to be here, madame..." he trails off, fishing for her name.

She says, "Hiala, of the Guild." Awkward pause. "How are you enjoying the entertainment?" she asks, gesturing at the ritual hunt around the fire.

Admiral Kaizoku looks to the dance. "A well-staged performance. I'm sure you've seen many exotic entertainments in your mercantile travels" he goes on politely.

She says, "Indeed I have. The Leopard is skilled at arranging such entertainments. These are from the Totikari of the southern plains, skilled in such hunts. Do you hunt, Admiral?"

"Not for sport, I fear." Admiral Kaizoku goes on "Perhaps I shall have the chance to see such a hunt with the Leopard on this visit. Have you accompanied him before?"

Hiala says, "Ah, yes. You are a... pirate. A kind of hunter.

She answers, "I have, when I am not overseeing the caravans and ships of the Guild. This will be his first great hunt as the Leopard Seat, however. It should prove interesting."

Admiral Kaizoku says "I scarcely consider myself a pirate any longer... the prey is too small..." He glances over to the Dynasts. "There are larger, rabid animals that need to be put down lurking in the shadows. Those are what I stalk now." "What sort of interesting?" he asks of the Seat's hunt.

Admiral Kaizoku remembers a Realm fleet he intercepted about year and a half ago, trying to head up the Yanaze River. Hesacked it, of course, and you remember that about, oh, twenty, maybe thirty silver talents worth of goods in the plunder were marked with the same sigil He sees on Hiala's seal ring. He's probably cost her an awful lot of money.

Hiala says, "As he has been graced with such august guests, the Leopard intends that the hunt will be for the Five Trophies of the South -- abacasteri, desert basilisc, furnace rhino, simhata, and lion fae. Or so it is bruited about."

Admiral Kaizoku says "Ah, that should be quite a sight indeed. Perhaps you will share tales of past hunts should we find ourselves travelling together on this upcoming one."

Monkey finds himself escorting Cathak Imani along a carefully maintained path in one of the palace gardens. Most of his cunning conversational gambits have been met with silence, but it seems she's happy to be out in the night air. The sky is clear, and the stars are bright, barely washed out by the torches and fires of the city. To the south, the hulk of the Fane of Upswept Horns is lit by fire, and silhouetted against the stars. After the heat of the day, it's pleasantly cool. The garden is deserted save for the two of you.

Monkey says, "I think... I'm lost."

Monkey says, "Where are we, anyway?"

Imani looks around. "The gardens, I suppose. They're not very much, are they?" She's got a lovely bit of condescension in her voice.

Monkey says, "No, they aren't. I've seen better."

Monkey says, "Imani, I will have to ask you a favor. You'll have to show me around."

And that's when the assassins attack.

A missile of some kind buzzes past Monkey's head as he bends over to look at a particularly interesting plant. He looks up and sees a trio of figures running toward him, weapons in hand.

Monkey says, "Imani, you wouldn't happen to have enemies around here, would you?"

Imani says, "Of course. Don't all great heroes?" as she draws her blade.

The three attackers split, one to either side of monkey and one coming straight for him. They are wielding short spears -- typical Harborhead weapons. In the starlight, they look like natives. Simultaneously, they attack.

Monkey is used to this kind of coordinated attack. People would train up for months to close in all avenues of defense, but they are all assume that the defender will be staying put. Which Monkey doesn't. He rather advances forward and ducks under and into the first attacker's reach, and from there, behind the whole group.

Monkey says, "So, are these yours or mine then?"

Imani says, "Never seen them. Local rabble."

Monkey draws a flame piece, turns around, and shoots the nearest ninja.

They're... not very good assassins. At least, not against a pair of Exalted. One Exalted. Monkey's target gets a face full of fire dust and starts screaming -- then the fire goes down his throat and he's reduced to a weak croaking as he writhes on the ground.

Monkey says, "Got one. Your turn, Imani."

Imani steps and feints at the assassin nearest her, then brings her sword around in a quick blow at his femoral artery.

Her target parries with his spear and stabs at her face.

Meanwhile, the other assassin tries to impale Monkey with a vigorous spear-thrust.

Monkey yells, "Imani!" while deftly dodging the other assassin.

The assassin's spear tangles in Imani's ornamental collar, knocking her off her feet but doing no damage.

Imani rolls to the side and rises to her feet...

Monkey effortlessly does a spinning kick at his own assailant.

Monkey's kick catches the assassin in the gut, and he crumples to the ground. Still breathing, or at least trying to. The last standing assassin goes for the kill on Imani as she tries to stand, driving his spearpoint into her throat. This time Imani is not so lucky, and the spear catches on her collarbone, driving her back down to the ground. She grunts in pain and drops her sword as she grabs the spear and tries to keep the assassin from impaling her. Despite the pain, she wrenches the spear away from her, ripping it out of her shoulder, and knocks the assassin off-balance.

Monkey's foot smashes the assassin's spine right at the neck. He collapses over in a limp heap, dead as he hits the ground. Monkey lands and wipes his (dry) nose before turning to Imani. "We need to have that tended. In the meanwhile, shall I call the guards or would you rather slip out before more assassins show up?"

Admiral Kaizoku looks up to see if Monkey is swinging from anything. With that done, he begins to work his way through the throng around the Leopard Seat.

The throng parts for Kaizoku -- mortals tend to do that for the Princes of the Earth, let alone a Solar. The Leopard Seat has seen him coming from a bit and is waiting with a wide, white-toothed smile. "Greetings, O Admiral of the Sea! It is a great pleasure to meet one such as yourself."

Admiral Kaizoku smiles and inclines his head politely. "Just as it is a pleasure to meet a noble and progressive ruler such as yourself" he replies. "Pray, what role of mine brings you such pleasure?"

The Leopard laughs, a big belly laugh. Half a beat later, the nearest Drums laugh as well. He says, "You are a great man, and chosen of the Sun. Who would not be honored by your presence? Who would not wish to have you as a friend? Come, sit with me and let us watch the hunt." He gestures at a stool, an elaborate one, placed next to the Leopard Seat.

Admiral Kaizoku takes the offered stool, sitting carefully so his sword and coattails are not caught. "There are some who are not as as welcoming as you are..." he says, glancing towards the Dynasts. He sits quietly and makes small talk about the fine quality of the performance for the next few moments. "I have heard that a truly grand hunt is planned... the five trophies of the south?"

He laughs again. He does that a lot, you notice. "Yes! A hunt such as we have not seen since the Empress disappeared. All of my honored guests shall gather the Five Trophies." He grins, an unpleasant glint in his eye. "I imagine it shall be a competition, to see who can do so most skillfully. Cathak Boruta has hunted before, you see." He waves in the general direction of the Dynasts.

Admiral Kaizoku hmmmms. "It sounds festive indeed. I do hope that the Cathak is up to the challenge... after the recent unpleasantness on the Blessed Isle, many of his kin are looking for easy prey."

The Leopard says, "Boruta is a hunter of great skill, especially when going after the very largest prey. As are you, I imagine."

Admiral Kaizoku smiles modestly. "I have had my moments. Sadly, the Juggernaut's head was too big to mount on my wall."

The Leopard laughs in appreciation of your joke. You're pretty sure that's why he's laughing, anyway...

Monkey lands and wipes his (dry) nose before turning to Imani. "Imani, if the assassins can get here, that means somebody in the palace is helping them. Come with me to the ship so we can have your wound tended. It'll be safe there. Okay, fine, safer."

Imani groans as she throws the spear aside. "Dragons, that hurts..." You can hear people approaching now, running feet and shouts.

Monkey grabs her by the waist and with a leap, disappears from the garden. "I'll worry about the backlash later," Monkey thinks. His destination is the docks. He figures if Imani decides to go elsewhere later, she can always just leave.

Monkey says, "Let's get out of here first."

Either she's not a Dragon-blooded, or she's a young one, because she appears to be drifting in and out of consciousness now. Monkey races to the docks, unhindered by any bystander, and bounces up the gangplank. Meanwhile...

Back in the garden, the palace guards stand over three corpses. "Gods," one of the guards says, "What monster did this? Look at their heads..." The camera pans down and we see that each assassin's head has been crushed. Then it shifts to a point-of-view shot from the tall plants behind the guards, low to the ground, as something scuttles backward. Cut back to Monkey.

He's on the Unconquered Sun, watching as the ship's doctor bandages Imani up.

Monkey says, "Exciting night, already, eh? Good thing they weren't expecting me to be there. Had they caught you by surprise, it could be bad. Not that they have any hope of defeating you, but they might leave a scar or something."

Imani is fully conscious now, and not looking too happy. "Of course they were no match for me, they're only mortals. Where am I?"

Monkey says, "The ship Unconquered Sun. Right next to the Harborhead docks."

Monkey says, "Where do you want to go now?"

Imani manages to look completely horrified and still maintain her calm. "I need to get back to the Satrap's Palace right now."

Monkey says, "You sure? There were assassins there. Might still be there. Can I take you to your house instead? Or maybe your uncle's?"

Imani frowns. "That is my house. We were at the Leopard's palace. Don't you know anything?"

Monkey says, "It was? But it was so big and grand I thought surely it's still part of the palace. In that case we must go right away to the palace. Let's go. Surgeon, tell everybody I'm going back to the palace. No need for an escort."

The surgeon nods and leaves the cabin.

Imani explains, patiently. "The Satrap's Palace is in the Imperial Garrison. The Leopard's palace is in the Old City."

Monkey says, "There were two palaces? Seems like a colossal waste of wealth. Why not just use one? But nevermind that. Lead the way, my lady. And ummm, do you want to go through via the faster way or the slow way? The slow way is more comfy, I'm told."

Imani says, "The fast way!" Under her breath, she mutters, "I'm in so much trouble."

Once outside the ship, Monkey scoops Imani up with both hands and tells her, "Hold on" and starts jumping from rooftop to rooftop. They're all disappointingly low, but one must make do with what's available.

The journey is swift, but it's not a short one... Following Imani's directions leads Monkey through the Old City, then along the Street of Palms and through the slums between the Old City and the Imperial Garrison. As Monkey bounces over the Garrison's wall, he sees the guards look up in surprise -- they're Harborhead troops, not Imperial legionnaires. Imani asks him to drop her at the edge of the clearing that surrounds the Satrap's Palace. She says, "You can't come up to the palace, it would upset people."

Monkey looks crestfallen.

Monkey says, "In that case, I'd better go to the other palace. Take care, Imani. And hey, see you at that hunt or whatever."

She doesn't answer. She's walking up toward the Satrap's Palace.

Admiral Kaizoku politely watches the hunt performance for a time and excuses himself, "not wanting to keep the Seat from his people" for too long. He moves in a roundabout way towards where the Dynasts mingle.

The Dynastic party is smaller than you'd expect -- only five people of note, not counting servants, and of those, only three obvious Dragon-Blooded. You can tell them because they're all wearing jade armor. Cathak Boruta stands out -- a largish man clad in green jade, with the House symbol worked into the breastplate. His armor's of the finest quality, as is the reaver daiklaive at his side. He is chatting idly with a patrician, a young man dressed in a robe of deep green mixed with off-white and carrying a writing tablet and stylus. Probably a secretary. Next to him is a Dragon-Blooded woman in red jade, quite beautiful but hard-faced. Probably fire aspect. Last of the Dragon-Blooded is another man, an Immaculate monk in white jade. He sees you approaching and whispers something to Boruta, then stalks off. He looks back over his shoulder at you with an expression of pure hate.

The final Dynast is a very old man, a patrician, dressed in white tunic and trousers. He seems not to be doing much beyond watching the hunt and drinking something alcoholic.

Boruta pointedly ignores your approach until you're within a few steps. He's saying, "... and send it to our agent in Bent Creek. Any questions, Semuda?" The secretary type says, "None, my lord."

Admiral Kaizoku has a relaxed posture as he approaches... he has no need to demonstrate his power to people like this. "Are you enjoying the performance?" he asks Boruta. "I have heard you are quite a hunter yourself. How does the show compare with your experiences?"

Just before it would really be rude not to, Boruta turns to meet the Admiral. "It is... a pale imitation of the Hunt, Anathema. And your own?"

Admiral Kaizoku says offhandedly "Oh, I must credit their skill and admire the effort they put into recreating something they have not experienced themselves. A difficult undertaking, just like building a society on past wonders one has no true understanding of..."

Boruta doesn't take the bait, and responds with, "Ah, but these are true hunters, not simply dancers. Look and see the scars -- you can see that each one has hunted lions, at the least. I believe that one in the white mask has even faced a simhata on the hunt. Scars, you see, are the true mark of a hunter... such as this one I bear here." He traces a small, pale line on his neck. "A reminder of a hunt a few years back, as I received from a forsaken beast."

Admiral Kaizoku tilts his head. "The truly forsaken beasts are the walking dead and dying that swarm from the Shadowlands over the Threshold. Perhaps news of them has reached the Blessed Isle?" he asks mildly. "They are a challenge for any true hunter or warrior."

Boruta says, "Have your voyages taken you to the West, Admiral?"

Admiral Kaizoku says, "On occasion."

He continues, "Have you heard, then, of the new power in Abalone? One... like yourself... rules there now. The people flee her rule and some, I understand, travel to Onyx and throw themselves on the mercy of the Silver Prince, for he has some. And does not practice human sacrifice upon altars to a false god."

Admiral Kaizoku says levelly "Very troubling indeed, to hear of Solar Exalted abusing their power like that. I shall turn my attention towards the problem once the tide of human misery to and from the central isle is stemmed."

Boruta says, "There will be no need. The legions will crush the demons soon enough and restore order to the land. As we will to all Creation."

Admiral Kaizoku says, "I do hope the surviving five great houses are up to the challenge... oh, there are still seven now, aren't there?"

Admiral Kaizoku says, "Very disconcerting, so many Dynast houses needing to be purged for being infested with demons, is it not?"

Boruta says, "The Host of the Dragon-Blooded will stand, and prevail, against all threats to Creation, as we have done since the beginning. ALL threats. Admiral."

Admiral Kaizoku says, "I quite believe you... The host will stand for as long as it has legs to support it."

Raw Log

Monkey . o O ( Don't speak Flametongue. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( The new flagship with a full crew and 125 "extra" crew, one of the Rising Dragons (written up in the NPCs section). A couple aides-de-camp that speak Flametongue, a cabin boy... there are a few ships crusing the area for backup if needed. . )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( And there's dinner. BRB. )

The GM . o O ( right, gives me time to get my coffee on. )

Monkey . o O ( I think out of those, only Kaizoku, Monkey, a DB (how about Norio? Or Saji?), and an honor guard of 5 Tiger Warriors under the leadership of Hotspur (generic heroic mortal Tiger Warrior) needs to be tracked. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Back. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Sounds good. Norio, as Saji's out west. And the new girl, Misa, watching the ship. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( I used the Elite Troop as the basis for the Tiger Warriors... some might be even more elite though. )

The GM . o O ( Sure, but no calling the tiger warrior sergeant Hotspur... that was a PC in my other Exalted game. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Thus he shall be... Rock Fury! )

The GM . o O ( so... )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Are we met at the docks with pomp and circumstance, or do we start at the big shindig that night? )

Monkey . o O ( Rock Fury. -_-; )

The GM . o O ( eh. We'll start things up with the Unconquered Sun (ship) docking in Kirighast harbor... posing. )

Monkey . o O ( David, how familiar are you with Harborhead setting? Because I don't have anything more other than what's in the corebook. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( About the same. )

It is Ascending Fire, and the harbor of Kirighast glitters under the Unconquered Sun's light. Across the water, Taiyo Kaizoku's mighty flagship slides, a shark among minnows. It is truly the mightiest vessel to have graced this city in centuries. On the pier ahead, you see a small group of dignitaries, escorted by Brides of Ahlat. They are waiting for you. The ship pulls alongside under the Admiral's mental command and stops silently. The crew runs out the gangplank with perfect teamwork. It thuds onto the stone of the pier. The dignitaries look at one another and then up at the ship. One swallows nervously.

The GM . o O ( Now, in your court: do you want to go down to them, or invite them up to the ship? It wasn't worked out previously. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Invite them up. Posing. )

Monkey senses that the ship has stopped. He opens his eyes, "Are we there yet? We are there!" and springs up from his hammock and races outside.

The GM . o O ( BRB -- coffee needs finishing. Be loquacious. )

Monkey . o O ( waiting.... )

Admiral Kaizoku cuts a figure as impressive as his ship, burning with the majesty of the sun as he walks to to the top fo the gangplank and spreads his arms wide. He's wearing a dress version of his normal uniform, a cloth-of-gold coat that goes down to the knees, finely tailored, with shoulder boards, but only one medal, a gold starburst with an amber gemstone in the center. "Come aboard, by all means!" he says, stepping back and to one side, gesturing onto the ship with a small smile on his face.

Monkey says, "Can I come down? Never been in Harborhead before, lots of things to see."

The GM . o O ( "Burning like the sun" -- figurative, or indicating a Charm? )

Monkey says, "You're gonna show the ship to them, right? I already know everything about the ship, so how about I go shopping?"

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Majestic Radiant Presence is up, and I'm not sure if that's literal or figurative. )

Admiral Kaizoku says "Now now, patience, Monkey... these are our hosts, and they'll surely invite is to a party once we show them our ship. Besides, they might be unsettled by Creation's greatest warrior walking around their city." His smile is a bit forced now.

The GM . o O ( posing )

Monkey . o O ( Probably figurative, but still, I'd say everyone knows some kind of anathema magic is being used. )

Monkey says, "Bummer."

The GM . o O ( oh, wait. Kaizoku, make a Per + Socialize check. )

Admiral Kaizoku rolled on something and got 1 success.

Monkey is sad because his plan to look for this famed Ahlat without Kaizoku looking over his shoulder has been spoiled.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Another lacking skill... )

The GM . o O ( eh, good enough. )

The GM . o O ( The welcoming party is small enough not to be a threat, large enough not to be insulting. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Can I tell anything about the importance of the party members? )

The GM . o O ( working on it. )

The GM . o O ( There are eight Brides, one of whom is probably high up in the Bride hierarchy. The non-Brides are three men and two women -- by the look of it, two are Lesser Drums, bureaucrats, and two of the men and one woman are Drums, nobles. The female Drum looks to be the most confident, as well as the oldest, of the party. )

The GM . o O ( and posing )

Monkey . o O ( Mmmm, pizza. )

The GM . o O ( stop making me hungry )

One of the women in the group takes the lead. She's old, probably well into her seventies if not older, and walks with the assistance of a cane, but there's fire in her eyes as she hobbles up the gangplank. The others follow. She comes aboard and bows as best she can to the Admiral. "Welcome to the city of Kirighast and the nation of Harborhead, Great Admiral. As a Drum of the Leopard Seat, I extend the hand of courtesy to you."

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Does she literally extend her hand? )

The GM . o O ( nope, figurative. )

The GM . o O ( oh, and done posing. Back in your court. )

Admiral Kaizoku inclines his head politely to her. "As the Admiral of the Solar Wind Fleet, I accept your hand in courtesy and hope for a beneficial friendship for ourselves and our nations. Come, let me show you one of the wonders of the lost age that I am working to restore to creation."

Monkey says, "Welcome to Unconquered Sun."

The GM . o O ( posing )

The GM . o O ( wow. you get a lot results for "african names" on the internets. )

Monkey . o O ( m'butu is traditional. )

The old woman says, "Thank you. I am Imbata, sometimes called wise. These are Yasurbo, and Laughing Dolphin. We are among the Drums of the Leopard Seat. Stalking Lioness and her companions of the Brides of Ahlat accompany us." She indicates her two male companions and the chief of the Brides as she makes introductions. "Lami and Unjani are Lesser Drums who have volunteered to act as guides to the city while you are here."

The GM . o O ( knew I should have made up a name list. Eh, next week. )

Monkey says, "Great! Lami, unjani, what is the best winery in Harborhead and where is it?"

Admiral Kaizoku speaks as he begins to walk. "The fierce prowess of the Brides of Ahlat is well-known in the North. My combat chief Monkey has been looking forward to meeting them... and other aspects of your city." He smiles tolarantly as he pauses next to the central paddlewheel.

The GM . o O ( follow-up pose to the Admiral's. )

Monkey cocks his head as he hear Kaizoku mention the brides, but quickly settles back on important matters of state, "That's probably too far to visit. We don't have that many days. I will have to settle for a shop that carries their wine. You wouldn't mind taking me there, would you?

Stalking Lioness is clearly not a diplomat. "Here, we have heard much of the prowess of the Children of the Sun." She looks like she wants to say more, but doesn't.

The GM . o O ( brb, more coffee )

Monkey says, "Hey, Admiral, I don't suppose a side trip to iGoli could be squeezed into our plan?"

Admiral Kaizoku ahs. "The most... colorful tales of the Children of the Sun come from the children of the fork-tongued" he remarks, alluding to the Dyansts of the Blessed Isle. "Our prowess is not exaggerated, but our habits often are" he tells her. "Perhaps not on this trip, but should we become great and good friends with Harborhead and her peoples, I anticipate returning often."

Monkey says, "Sweet! Now, Unjani, now that that issue has been settled, we must move on to another important issues. Namely, good food. You've been on a ship for long journeys before? No? Well, trust me when I say the food is boring. Can't be helped. One ship, in the middle of the ocean. Preserved stuffs and fish."

Monkey says, "But now that we're on shore again, how about you show me that Harborhead cuisine?"

Admiral Kaizoku leads the group past the massive Heavy Essence Cannon that towers over the rear of the ship. "By no means!" he says. "Let us go to the quarters you have so graciously provided. Monkey! Assemble the shore party and then we shall break our fast."

Unjani says, "The royal kitchens will certainly have prepared dinner tonight, but a true feast must await a royal hunt."

The GM . o O ( Waiting on one of you. )

Monkey says, "Aye aye! You, find Norio and tell her to pick a talon of honor guard to accompany Admiral Kaizoku to the palace."

Admiral Kaizoku finishes up the tour at the gangplank. "Another thing to look forward to" he says of the royal hunt, letting the diplomatic party disembark first, following them with the honor guard after.

Monkey says, "Oh, tell her she's coming too and bring whoever else she thinks useful. And don't forget the gifts."

The GM . o O ( right, fast forward, then. Unless you have something you want to do prior to the next scene. )

Monkey . o O ( Nah, let's fast-forward. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Nope, I'm good. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( The honor guard all have bundles with Ashigaru armor though. )

The GM . o O ( noted. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( We need a golden protocol automaton for situations like this. )

Monkey . o O ( With a trusty cleaning and repair automaton that can only communicate in whirrs and clicks? )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Yes, he can help maintain the Unconquered Sun's advanced systems, and stash away a beamklave for emergencies. )

Monkey . o O ( not to mention storing and relaying short audiovisual messages in its essence-matrix projector. )

The sumptuous quarters are just that. They are a pair of buildings, richly appointed with a courtyard garden and plenty of room for your entire entourage. It is across the plaza from the Palace of the Leopard Seat, and not too far from the famed Street of Palms. Towering overhead, you can see the Fane of the Upswept Horns that dominates the old city from its central hill. Wise Imbata and the other diplomats leave you to get settled, while Lami and Unjani stay in the garden, available if you should need them. There are no other occupants of the house.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( What time is it and when is the dinner? )

The GM . o O ( it is just entering the hot part of the day, in mid-afternoon. Dinner will be late tonight. Most of the city is settling in for a couple hours of not doing anything. )

Admiral Kaizoku takes a good look at the palace out the window. As the guard unpacks, he turns to Lami and Unjani, hands clasped behind his back. "I'm sure this house has a rich and storied past... would you care to share it?" he asks mildly.

The GM . o O ( Man, you're just trying to make me work, aren't you. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( I could just yell "The Sun commands you to RELAX AND RELATE LOCAL CONDITIONS!" but that might not work so well. )

Monkey . o O ( heh heh heh. )

The GM . o O ( New rule: Any time we're in a scene and you want to ACCOMPLISH SOMETHING, you have to TELL ME WHAT IT IS, 'cause you play Kaizoku as this incredibly oblique tactician. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Besides, if things get too slow, two Deathknights with daiklaves will smash through the door. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( OK. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Find out what the house is like as a gambit to see how we're really being recieved. Demonstrate we're not baby-eating pagan gods to put them at ease and get some handle on local politics. )

The GM . o O ( right. Quick pose. )

The two Harborheadites look at each other. Lami shifts a little on the stool she's sitting on, and Unjani looks everywhere but at you. "Um... well, it's about five hundred years old," Lami says. "It was built by a rich merchant who was later executed by the Realm in the revolt. It's been an annex of the Palace since then."

The GM . o O ( read: They're nervous around you. So, Charisma + Presence. Success puts them at ease, while failure means they find you terribly unnerving. )

Admiral Kaizoku rolled on something and got 6 successes.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( That should probably do it. )

The GM . o O ( Yup. Pose it. )

Admiral Kaizoku sits down on a stool, facing them, a warm smile on his face. "So I see. And what of yourselves? Is this your first time acting as diplomatic aides?" he asks lightly. "What do you do while not escorting visitors to your great city?"

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( IE, are they meant to be expendable in case we want to drink from human skulls? )

Monkey . o O ( What a waste. For one thing, skulls have holes where tasty drinks leak out undrinked. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( This demonstrates how even propaganda has fallen into a sad state since the First Age. )

Unjani smiles a bit and says, "Nothing so exciting. We are both minor functionaries of the Leopard Seat, tasked with whatever needs doing in foreign relations. This is why we both speak Rivertongue, for example."

Monkey . o O ( expendable. )

Monkey yawns and says, "I'm going to sleep. Wake me up when it's time for dinner."

Monkey . o O ( Need to skip further forward. )

The GM . o O ( yup )

The GM . o O ( quick further pose as the "cunning diplomats" fill Kaizoku in on local dirt. )

Admiral Kaizoku chats them up and puts them at ease for an hour or so, using skills he rarely employs.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( OK. )

During the siesta hours, Kaizoku talks Lami and Unjani into a semblance of friendship, and learns what he can about local politics. He finds that things are tense, not least because of his presence. The Realm is leaning heavily on the Leopard Seat, who is himself insecure in his power and looking to shore it up by whatever means he can. A Realm delegation lead by the famous general Cathak Boruta is presently installed in the Satrap's Palace. And everyone's worrying that this rebel in the south, the Ishadhi, will really turn out to be a chosen of Ahlat. So, things are not easy.

The GM . o O ( and posing yet. )

By the time Kaizoku finishes talking to them, the hour is late and the sun nearly set. The cool of evening is beginning to show itself, and Monkey is nearly climbing the walls from sheer impatience. He would surely have run off already if not for Norio challenging him to games of skill to keep him occupied.

Monkey . o O ( What is Ahlat doing? And curious, how does he run (or not run) Harborhead? )

The GM . o O ( He doesn't. He's not a hands-on manager as far as Harborhead's concerned. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( He knows better than to get involved in the sausage-making of governing. )

Admiral Kaizoku brings out his extra-dressy dress coat, and a matching hat as well. Now comes Monkey's ultimate challenge... of dressing himself up!

Monkey . o O ( Silly David. With App 5 less is more. )

Just as you're about to set out for the palace, a very small group shows up at the guest house. It is only three people, and one is obviously a mere servant. The other two are priests... of the Unconquered Sun.

Monkey doesn't see the point of dressing any more different than usual.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Though the logical conclusion to such an idea is too horrible to contemplate. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Natives to the area? )

Monkey . o O ( Only because you have not accepted your inner-yaoi-fandom-ness. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( waiting on more on the priests. )

The GM . o O ( sorry. )

The GM . o O ( posing )

The two priests are similar in appearance, natives of Harborhead and male, dressed in white with sun-pendants. They wear small caps, typical of what you've seen on the street. Both are on the small side, with shoulder-length curly black hair and dark brown skin. One has a beaded bracelet. They look a little out of breath.

The GM . o O ( and still posing. )

The slightly taller one walks up to Kaizoku and bows deeply. "Great one, I welcome you to the city of Kirighast. We are honored by the presence of a Golden Bull and a Bronze Tiger in this land. May we accompany you to the banquet?"

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Oh, my. Hmmm... )

Monkey . o O ( The thing to do is say no. They aren't invited. )

Admiral Kaizoku lifts a finger to his brow, where his caste mark would be. Not showing any surprise, he says "Be at peace and relax" when the man rises up again. "It pleases me to see the word of the Sun being spread in this land. Tell me of yourself and your efforts."

Monkey . o O ( They're basically trying to crash a patry. )

Monkey . o O ( It would be rude to your host to bring them over. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( They might even want to throw blood on fur coats. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Ah, I know. We'll throw a party of our own in the future and have them there. )

Monkey . o O ( Ooo ooo, neat! )

The taller one -- still only an inch taller than Monkey, as it happens -- says, "My name is Soto, and this is my fellow priest Wide Grass. I am the head priest of the temple of the Unconquered Sun in Kirighast."

"As the people of Harborhead have always recognized the Sun's supremacy in the heavens, we have tended to their needs in this city in his name," he adds.

Monkey says, "That's good. Right?"

Monkey says, "But what brings you here? The Leopard Seat is expecting us, so make it quick, or we'll be late."

Monkey . o O ( hmmm, nice meter. )

Admiral Kaizoku says "The blessings of the Sun on you. Come in, please." He ushers them into the house. "Now, our truth must be put forth, but against centuries of lies, it must be done with care and cunning. To bring you to this party would bring the Sun in as an unwelcome guest. To bring the powerful of the city to my own celebration, which you will attend, would have them as the Sun's guests."

Soto nods. "Though we are often overshadowed by the worship of Ahlat -- he is the patron of Harborhead, not the Unconquered Sun -- we are never forgotten. We will, then await your return if it is your will."

Admiral Kaizoku nods his head. "It would please me greatly for you to share your experiences with my faithful crew as you await my return."

The two priests and their servant acquiesce, and you head on to the palace of the Leopard Seat.

Monkey . o O ( Aaaa, indoctrination. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Norio's coming along on the Admiral's arm. Two of the Tigersharks armor up and take up hidden watch positions outside the palace. )

The GM . o O ( right... okay. we'll say they find somewhere two foreigners in magitech armor won't be TOO conspicuous. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( It's stealth armor! )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( They'll go up trees and blend in! )

The GM . o O ( Okay. )

The GM . o O ( that works. )

Monkey . o O ( Honestly, I think Kaizoku's too paranoid. Which is fine if you are playing out his Great Curse. )

The GM . o O ( Heh heh heh. )

The GM . o O ( which reminds me... roll Perception + Occult. )

Admiral Kaizoku rolled on Per+Occ and got 7 successes.

Monkey rolled on Per+Occ+tiara and got 6 successes.

The GM . o O ( cool. Moving on... )

Cut to the shindig. It's a big dinner, in your honor, and the first thing you notice is the small group of Dynasts, pointedly seated on the far side of the great hall from where you've been placed. This is probably a wise precaution by the planners... Looking around the hall, you see the Leopard Seat and the one who sits upon it at the head of the hall. Around him are seated a variety of well-dressed, wealthy looking Harborheadites -- the Drums of the Seat. Then are seated yourself on the one side of the hall, and on the other are the Dynasts. Rounding things out are lesser nobles and some visiting dignitaries from other powers -- a tough-looking middle-aged woman who appears to be some kind of merchant, a man who you are informed is the Varangian ambassador, and so on.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Waiting on more. )

You are seated on low couches and attended by well-trained slaves. In the center of the circle of attendees is a great fire, and on the walls of the great hall are paintings and sculptures of Harborhead's history, emphasizing the martial glory of the nation and its god. Dancers and musicians perform in between you and fire, and a low buzz of conversation underlies the music.

Monkey . o O ( Let me know when you're done posing. )

The GM . o O ( will do. )

Monkey . o O ( bathroom. )

The first part of the dinner proceeds without incident -- clearly, this is a time to be seen, not to act. It is after the food is largely cleared away that the Leopard Seat stands and begins to speak.

Monkey . o O ( back )

He's a strong-featured man, powerfully built, and though he's obviously mortal, even from here you can feel the force of his charisma. "Countrymen and friends from foreign lands. The land of Harborhead stands at a crucial juncture in its history. The events of this time will determine whether our nation becomes a power among the states of Creation -- or the slaves of outsiders. It is with great pleasure, then, that I see who comes to us as friends." He goes on in this vein for a few minutes, then says, "But enough of politics! Let us speak of better things. Tomorrow I embark on a great hunt throughout the country. For the fortune of this hunt, an entertainment." He waves toward the back of the hall.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Hopefully not slaves fighting to the death. )

From there, a large party of dancers comes in. They begin enacting a ritual hunt. It's quite good, as far as entertainment goes, and during it, people begin to mingle a bit. No one has the nerve to approach you quite yet, however.

The GM . o O ( and finally your poses. )

Monkey . o O ( I know what Monkey would do, but ultimately, that doesn't advance the plot. Or at least not in the ways David would like. )

Monkey mingles with the crowd, hitting the lovely ladies.

Admiral Kaizoku rises and brushes any stray crumbs off his coat. "Do try not to cause any incidents with the young ladies..." he says heading over to the nearest clump of people.

Monkey . o O ( So we'll settle with a generic pose. )

Monkey . o O ( Too late, David! )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Curses! )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Anyway, the Admiral will work his way over to the other outside guests, the Varang ambassador and the tough woman who's probably Guild first. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( He tells Norio to mingle too, as she's less threatening than he or Monkey. )

The GM . o O ( so who wants to go first? Girl shenanigans or diplomatic niceties? )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( The ladies first! )

The GM . o O ( posing, then )

The GM . o O ( any particular girls you're looking for? )

Monkey . o O ( The prettiest one, naturally, which of course will be plot-significant somehow. )

The GM . o O ( right, working that out real quick... )

Monkey . o O ( With luck, it might even be helpful, but I am not going to count on that. )

Monkey . o O ( Bonus points if it's Roseblack. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Probably Cathak Boruta's innocent daughter. )

Monkey . o O ( That's heroic mortal scale. )

Monkey . o O ( Solar Exalt scale would be The Scarlet Empress in disguise. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Was trying to update Norio's charms real fast... she's got a bunch of charms that don't exist now. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( I hope it's not the Empress. I don't want to see Monkey fighting off a bunch of tentacles. )

Monkey . o O ( The empress is not a squid. )

It's to be expected, really, that the most attractive woman in this hall is, in fact, one of the Dynasts. She's young, maybe not a Dragon-blooded -- if she is, she's not very powerful yet. She's also clearly peeved at her fellow Dynasts, since she's off sulking away from anyone who might try to cheer her up. She's a red-head, looks about seventeen, dressed in a ceremonial breastplate and cotton skirt, both green. The badge of House Cathak adorns her clothing. A sword hangs at her side.

Monkey . o O ( Bonus! )

Monkey . o O ( But not full marks. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( She read the big book of Bad Stuff. She's got them now for sure! )

The GM . o O ( oh, and Monkey's pose )

Monkey walks purposely towards the woman and squats right in front of her and looks up into her face. "Yeah, I totally agree. Boring useless party. Why'd they even listen at those old men prattling instead of doing what is common sense, right?

The girl says, "What? Who are you?

Monkey says, "Most people call me Monkey. Some people calls me nastier names, but I hope you won't listen to them."

Monkey says, "And what about you?"

The girl says, "My name is Imani, of House Cathak. Are... are you Anathema?"

Monkey shrugs, "Beats me. I've been told I am, but I don't feel like one."

Monkey says, "You are welcome to try and take my head off if you feel strongly about it, but I have a peculiar emotional attachment to it though."

Monkey says, "So I'd rather you not try. At least not until you've known me enough to make your own judgment."

Monkey says, "But anyway, how about we ditch the party? That way, even if you take my head off, it won't be too gauche."

Imani looks at you warily. "It's a diplomatic function. Uncle told me not to fight anyone without his permission." She glances over at the Dynastic party. It seems no one's paying attention to her. "I shouldn't leave."

Monkey says, "Bah, tell them I kidnapped you. Then even if you take my head off, it'll be self-defense."

The GM . o O ( roll Charisma + Presence )

Monkey stands up and grabs her wrist and drags her off the party.

Monkey . o O ( Spending WP. )

Monkey . o O ( for autosuccess. )

Monkey . o O ( Well, now we see whether she goes along or slaps Monkey in the face, therefore creating a Diplomatic Incident. )

The GM . o O ( you rolling, or not? )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( It's up there. )

The GM . o O ( I just see the "spending WP" bit. )

Monkey . o O ( Jesse, set yourself as gm. )

Monkey . o O ( I used the private roll mode. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Weird. Monkey rolled 4 dice on Cha+Pre and got 2 successes. )

The GM . o O ( aha. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Oh oh. I need to de-set myself as GM then. )

A pale blue haze briefly obscures your vision. Through the haze you can make out the form of a glowing pointed hat settled on the head of jetman (#2259). This person is your Game Master.

Monkey . o O ( The moo still thinks David is the gm. )

The GM . o O ( yup )

Monkey . o O ( But anyway, what David said. 2 success + 1 wp = 3. )

The GM . o O ( good enough. )

jetman (#2259) hangs up the pointed hat on the hatstand.

The GM . o O ( she goes willingly. Camera tracks you out a nearby door and we switch to Kaizoku for the moment. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Now use @setgm jesse )

Apollonian (#972) utters a word of command. A glowing pointed hat appears in the middle of the room. It floats over to Apollonian (#972) and hovers overhead before fading out. This person is now your Game Master.

The GM . o O ( Kaizoku -- who do you want to approach first? )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( The unknown tough woman. )

Monkey . o O ( The Hat has changed head. All hail the new HeadHat! )

The GM . o O ( roll Per + Socialize, Kaizoku )

Admiral Kaizoku rolled 4 dice on Per and got 1 success.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( See that? )

The GM . o O ( yup. posing )

As Kaizoku approaches, the tough-looking woman turns away from her dinner companion and rises to greet him. She doesn't look particularly friendly. "Ah, the infamous Admiral Kaizoku. Welcome to Harborhead." she says.

The GM . o O ( your pose )

Admiral Kaizoku takes that comment in stride. "It is good to be here, madame..." he trails off, fishing for her name.

Monkey . o O ( It's Suda! Wearing a resplendent destiny. )

She says, "Hiala, of the Guild." Awkward pause. "How are you enjoying the entertainment?" she asks, gesturing at the ritual hunt around the fire.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( That wouldn't stop her from throwing a drink in his face though. )

Admiral Kaizoku looks to the dance. "A well-staged performance. I'm sure you've seen many exotic entertainments in your mercantile travels" he goes on politely.

Monkey . o O ( Hahaha, mercantile travels. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Feeling out her goals, softening up her opinion of the Admiral. )

She says, "Indeed I have. The Leopard is skilled at arranging such entertainments. These are from the Totikari of the southern plains, skilled in such hunts. Do you hunt, Admiral?"

Monkey . o O ( Not in this manner, no. )

"Not for sport, I fear."

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Stop that! :) )

Admiral Kaizoku goes on "Perhaps I shall have the chance to see such a hunt with the Leopard on this visit. Have you accompanied him before?"

Hiala says, "Ah, yes. You are a... pirate. A kind of hunter.

She answers, "I have, when I am not overseeing the caravans and ships of the Guild. This will be his first great hunt as the Leopard Seat, however. It should prove interesting."

Admiral Kaizoku says "I scarcely consider myself a pirate any longer... the prey is too small..." He glances over to the dynasts. "There are larger, rabid animals that need to be put down lurking in the shadows. Those are what I stalk now." "What sort of interesting?" he asks of the Seat's hunt.

The GM . o O ( Per + Presence roll, please. )

Admiral Kaizoku rolled 9 dice on Per+Pre and got 2 successes.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Yow. )

The GM . o O ( Yeah, she doesn't like you at all. Make an Int + Bureaucracy roll, difficulty 2. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Spending a WP for autosuccess )

Admiral Kaizoku rolled 2 dice on Int and got 3 successes.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Sonofa... )

The GM . o O ( heh. )

The GM . o O ( Okay, you flash back to a Realm fleet you intercepted about year and a half ago, trying to head up river. You sacked it, of course, and you remember that about, oh, twenty, maybe thirty silver talents worth of goods in the plunder were marked with the same sigil you see on her seal ring. You've probably cost her an awful lot of money. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( It IS just business! )

Monkey . o O ( Bad Kaizoku. No cookie. )

Monkey . o O ( You could try buying her off. )

Monkey . o O ( But this depends on how you want to handle the Guild as a whole. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Millions of Talents for defense, not one for tribute. )

The GM . o O ( man... now I remember what I detest about WW books. No index. )

The GM . o O ( finally found it. posing her reply )

Monkey . o O ( What about definitely yozi-cultish organization and editing? )

Hiala says, "As he has been graced with such august guests, the Leopard intends that the hunt will be for the Five Trophies of the South -- abacasteri, desert basilisc, furnace rhino, simhata, and lion fae. Or so it is bruited about."

Admiral Kaizoku says "Ah, that should be quite a sight indeed. Perhaps you will share tales of past hunts should we find ourselves travelling together on this upcoming one."

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Politely part and start working my way through the crowd and to the Seat after that. )

The GM . o O ( right, no problem there. Aaand cut back to Monkey and the Dragon-Blooded naif. )

Monkey . o O ( Hey, Monkey is just a naive too. )

Monkey finds himself escorting Cathak Imani along a carefully maintained path in one of the palace gardens. Most of his cunning conversational gambits have been met with silence, but it seems she's happy to be out in the night air. The sky is clear, and the stars are bright, barely washed out by the torches and fires of the city. To the south, the hulk of the Fane of Upswept Horns is lit by fire, and silhouetted against the stars. After the heat of the day, it's pleasantly cool. The garden is deserted save for the two of you.

The GM . o O ( your pose )

Monkey says, "I think... I'm lost."

Monkey says, "Where are we anyway?"

Monkey . o O ( This is going to be one of those conversational pieces. )

Imani looks around. "The gardens, I suppose. They're not very much, are they?" She's got a lovely bit of condescension in her voice.

Monkey says, "No, they aren't. I've seen better."

Monkey says, "Imani, I will have to ask you a favor. You'll have to show me around."

And that's when the assassins attack.

The GM . o O ( You've got one ranged attack on you, Monkey. Defensive charms? )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Obviously, I wasn't paranoid enough! )

Monkey . o O ( No, this is classic. When the hero is about to get the girl, ninjas attack. )

Monkey . o O ( No matter how much precaution is taken, this will happen. )

Monkey . o O ( None, i'll rely on my full dodge dv. )

The GM . o O ( right, rolling )

You rolled 8 dice on something and got 6 successes.

Monkey . o O ( Close. Dodge Dv is 7. )

Monkey . o O ( Hmmm, need to add a
there. )

The GM . o O ( right, then, posing. )

A missile of some kind buzzes past Monkey's head as he bends over to look at a particularly interesting plant. He looks up and sees a trio of figures running toward him, weapons in hand.

The GM . o O ( and, um, combat. )

Monkey . o O ( Ninja? )

Monkey says, "Imani, you wouldn't happen to have enemies around here, would you?"

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Join Battle rolls? )

The GM . o O ( Yep )

Monkey rolled 10 dice on Secret of future strife and got 4 successes.

The GM . o O ( oy )

The GM . o O ( I keep wanting to type "roll 1d10+x" )

You rolled 5 dice on something and got 2 successes.

You rolled 7 dice on something and got 5 successes.

Monkey . o O ( One moment. I need to reintegrate how join battle works now. How about you answer my question to Imani to buy time? )

The GM . o O ( yeah )

Imani says, "Of course. Don't all great heroes?" as she draws her blade.

The GM . o O ( also, brb )

Monkey . o O ( Okay, the guy who get 5 successes goes first. Monkey (with 4) goes 1 tick after him. The guy with 2 successes go on tick 3. )

Monkey . o O ( You can activate Reflexive charms (or do other Reflexive actions) as part of your Join Battle. The charm does not need to relate to the roll. )

The GM . o O ( back. Ninjas going first. )

Monkey . o O ( I'm going to rate the ninja as low level annoyances and not unleash stacking dice pool of doom or combos. )

The three attackers split, one to either side of monkey and one coming straight for him. They are wielding short spears -- typical Harborhead weapons. In the starlight, they look like natives.

Simultaneously, they attack.

Monkey . o O ( Activating Flow Like Blood. personal. )

The GM . o O ( what's your DV, then? )

Monkey . o O ( Dodge 7. )

Monkey . o O ( Oh, FLB is Obvious. Think of Kung-fu Bullet Time. )

The GM . o O ( got it. )

You rolled 8 dice on something and got 3 successes.

You rolled 8 dice on something and got 2 successes.

You rolled 8 dice on something and got 5 successes.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Being that flexible might actually impress the ladies though. )

The GM . o O ( wow, they suck. who knew? )

The GM . o O ( go ahead and pose it. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( These must be the kind of ninjas who hang around airports and get sucked up into jet engines. )

TonyC decides that saving the world takes priority over chatting and disappears.

TonyC takes a break from saving the world and wanders in.

Monkey . o O ( Bah. )

Monkey . o O ( posing. )

Monkey is used to this kind of coordinated attack. People would train up for months to close in all avenues of defense, but they are all assume that the defender will be staying put. Which Monkey doesn't. He rather advances forward and ducks under and into the first attacker's reach, and from there, behind the whole group.

Monkey . o O ( Mozilla's backspace key is convenient for navigating, but occassionally I would press backspace to edit my desc and it will think I want to exit the Pyramoo. )

The GM . o O ( Yup )

The GM . o O ( your go. )

Monkey says, "So, are these yours or mine then?"

Imani says, "Never seen them. Local rabble."

Monkey draws a flame piece, turns around, and shoots the nearest ninja.

Monkey rolled 4 dice on Flame piece and got 2 successes.

Monkey . o O ( That's including the penalty. Just compare it to their dv after their attack. )

The GM . o O ( hrm. hit, since they've DV 2. )

The GM . o O ( roll it. )

Monkey rolled 10 dice on flame and got 3 hits.

The GM . o O ( Posing it. )

They're... not very good assassins. At least, not against a pair of Exalted. One Exalted. Monkey's target gets a face full of fire dust and starts screaming -- then the fire goes down his throat and he's reduced to a weak croaking as he writhes on the ground.

The GM . o O ( what's the speed on that attack, btw. )

Monkey . o O ( 5. )

The GM . o O ( got it )

Monkey says, "Got one." "Your turn, Imani."

The GM . o O ( posing Imani's attack. )

Imani steps and feints at the assassin nearest her, then brings her sword around in a quick blow at his femoral artery.

You rolled 6 dice on something and got 1 success.

The GM . o O ( no joy for her! )

Her target parries with his spear and stabs at her face.

You rolled 8 dice on something and got 6 successes.

Meanwhile, the other assassin tries to impale Monkey with a vigorous spear-thrust.

You rolled 8 dice on something and got 5 successes.

Monkey yells, "Imani!" while deftly dodging the other assassin.

You rolled 2 dice on something and got no hits.

The assassin's spear tangles in Imani's ornamental collar, knocking her off her feet but doing no damage.

Imani rolls to the side and rises to her feet...

The GM . o O ( and Monkey's go. )

Monkey effortlessly does a spinning kick at his own assaillant.

Monkey . o O ( Can't come up with a witticism. )

The GM . o O ( save 'em for decent foes. )

Monkey rolled 10 dice on kick and got 3 successes.

Monkey rolled 9 dice on bashing kick and got 4 hits.

The GM . o O ( behold the pain! yeah. posing )

Monkey's kick catches the assassin in the gut, and he crumples to the ground. Still breathing, or at least trying to. The last standing assassin goes for the kill on Imani as she tries to stand, driving his spearpoint into her throat.

You rolled 8 dice on something and got 7 successes.

The GM . o O ( typical )

Monkey . o O ( That's what charms are for. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( If she's even Exalted. )

Monkey . o O ( Ah, patricians would've dressed and acted differently, I expect. )

Monkey . o O ( but if she's Wood aspect like her dress suggests, then her anima power should protect her a bit. )

You rolled 7 dice on something and got 3 hits.

This time Imani is not so lucky, and the spear catches on her collarbone, driving her back down to the ground. She grunts in pain and drops her sword as she grabs the spear and tries to keep the assassin from impaling her.

You rolled 5 dice on something and got 3 successes.

Despite the pain, she wrenches the spear away from her, ripping it out of her shoulder, and knocks the assassin off-balance.

Monkey . o O ( Harborhead Harbinger: Newsflash! Scandal! Assassins attack Dynast in Harborhead. Palace guards incompetent! Anathema saves Dynast. Leopard Seat announces martial law! )

The GM . o O ( Monkey's go. )

Monkey runs into a flying kick at the last assassin. "Ooooyah!"

Monkey rolled 10 dice on Flying kick. and got 8 successes.

The GM . o O ( yes, that's a success. )

Monkey . o O ( You know, i didn't even think of stunting. )

Monkey rolled 14 dice on bashing kick and got 7 hits.

Monkey . o O ( that one might break his neck. )

The GM . o O ( works for me. posing )

Monkey's foot smashes the assassin's spine right at the neck. He collapses over in a limp heap, dead as he hits the ground.

Monkey lands and wipes his (dry) nose before turning to Imani. "We need to have that tended. In the meanwhile, shall I call the guards or would you rather slip out before more assassins show up?"

The GM . o O ( aand... cut to Kaizoku. )

Monkey . o O ( If I may, I'd rather retcon that last sentence out and rephrase it as something more active. )

Monkey . o O ( But we'll handle it after Kaizokuk. )

Admiral Kaizoku looks up to see if Monkey is swinging from anything. With that done, he begins to work his way through the throng around the Leopard Seat.

The GM . o O ( go for it -- we'll do it when we hit your scene. )

The throng parts for Kaizoku -- mortals tend to do that for the Princes of the Earth, let alone a Solar. The Leopard Seat has seen him coming from a bit and is waiting with a wide, white-toothed smile. "Greetings, O Admiral of the Sea! It is a great pleasure to meet one such as yourself."

The GM . o O ( your pose )

Admiral Kaizoku smiles and inclines his head politely. "Just as it is a pleasure to meet a noble and progressive ruler such as yourself" he replies. "Pray, what role of mine brings you such pleasure?"

The Leopard laughs, a big belly laugh. Half a beat later, the nearest Drums laugh as well. He says, "You are a great man, and chosen of the Sun. Who would not be honored by your presence? Who would not wish to have you as a friend? Come, sit with me and let us watch the hunt." He gestures at a stool, an elaborate one, placed next to the Leopard Seat.

Admiral Kaizoku takes the offered stool, sitting carefully so his sword and coattails are not caught. "There are some who are not as as welcoming as you are..." he says, glancing towards the Dynasts. He sits quietly and makes small talk about the fine quality of the performance for the next few moments. "I have heard that a truly grand hunt is planned... the five trophies of the south?"

He laughs again. He does that a lot, you notice. "Yes! A hunt such as we have not seen since the Empress disappeared. All of my honored guests shall gather the Five Trophies." He grins, an unpleasant glint in his eye. "I imagine it shall be a competition, to see who can do so most skillfully. Cathak Boruta has hunted before, you see." He waves in the general direction of the Dynasts.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Do I know anything about Cathak Boruta? In particular, activities during the civil war? )

The GM . o O ( roll Intelligence )

Admiral Kaizoku rolled 2 dice on something and got 2 successes.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( GOT to bump that up... )

The GM . o O ( yes, yes you do. )

Admiral Kaizoku hmmmms. "It sounds festive indeed. I do hope that the Cathak is up to the challenge... after the recent unpleasantness on the Blessed Isle, many of his kin are looking for easy prey."

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( That and a half-dozen other things. )

The GM . o O ( anyway, short version: He's one of the older Cathaks, a pretty solid supporter of Cainan, and was fairly important in hammering out the final arrangements after the Civil War. Lots of connections. Statesman. )

Monkey . o O ( And what do you do? )

Monkey . o O ( Gonna try to co-opt him? Assassinate him? )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Violence won't solve anything. He'll make a move against Harborhead or us and we'll expose it. )

The Leopard says, "Boruta is a hunter of great skill, especially when going after the very largest prey. As are you, I imagine."

Admiral Kaizoku smiles modestly. "I have had my moments. Sadly, the Juggernaut's head was too big to mount on my wall."

Monkey . o O ( The Mask's head wouldn't. Although sadly as a ghost he kinda fades away into mist. )

Monkey . o O ( Or so Monkey thinks. )

The Leopard laughs in appreciation of your joke. You're pretty sure that's why he's laughing, anyway...

The GM . o O ( roll Per + Presence )

Admiral Kaizoku rolled 9 dice on Per+Pre and got 3 successes.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( ... )

The GM . o O ( If you were mortal, this man would be very scary. As it is, he's simply a little unnerving and distasteful. He reminds you of some of the worst Dynasts you met before you exalted -- powerful, knowing how to use that power, and entirely without a conscience. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( But at least he's not a Dynast. )

Monkey . o O ( Could still be a DB. )

Monkey . o O ( Or some sort of other blooded. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Does he show any signs of DB breeding? )

The GM . o O ( and cut back to Monkey )

The GM . o O ( line? )

The GM . o O ( Oh, and no, he doesn't. )

Monkey lands and wipes his (dry) nose before turning to Imani. "Imani, if the assassins can get here, that means somebody in the palace is helping them. Come with me to the ship so we can have your wound tended. It'll be safe there. Okay, fine, safer."

Monkey . o O ( Secretly, the Leopard Seat is Ahlat himself, possessing an ignorant dupe. )

Imani groans as she throws the spear aside. "Dragons that hurts..." You can hear people approaching now, running feet and shouts.

The GM . o O ( your reaction pose? )

Monkey . o O ( Hmmm, I expected her reaction pose. )

The GM . o O ( that _was_ her reaction pose. She's just been stabbed. )

Monkey . o O ( Okay. )

Monkey . o O ( posing. )

Monkey grabs her by the waist and with a leap, disappears from the garden. "I'll worry about the backlash later," Monkey thinks. His destination is the docks. He figures if Imani decides to go elsewhere later, she can always just leave.

Monkey says, "Let's get out of here first."

You rolled 3 dice on something and got no successes but no botches either.

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Lots of heads on posts come morning. )

Monkey . o O ( Indeed, although I hope they'll interrogate the one that's just unconscious first. )

Either she's not a Dragon-blooded, or she's a young one, because she appears to be drifting in and out of consciousness now. Monkey races to the docks, unhindered by any bystander, and bounces up the gangplank. Meanwhile...

Back in the garden, the palace guards stand over three corpses. "Gods," one of the guards says, "What monster did this? Look at their heads..." The camera pans down and we see that each assassin's head has been crushed. Then it shifts to a point-of-view shot from the tall plants behind the guards, low to the ground, as something scuttles backward. Cut back to Monkey.

He's on the Unconquered Sun, watching as the ship's doctor bandages Imani up.

The GM . o O ( and your pose. )

Monkey says, "Exciting night, already, eh? Good thing they weren't expecting me to be there. Had they caught you by surprise, it could be bad. Not that they have any hope of defeating you, but they might leave a scar or something."

Imani is fully conscious now, and not looking too happy. "Of course they were no match for me, they're only mortals. Where am I?"

Monkey says, "The ship Unconquered Sun. Right next to the Harborhead docks."

Monkey says, "Where do you want to go now?"

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( "You brought a Dynast onto our battleship for a date? )

Imani manages to look completely horrified and still maintain her calm. "I need to get back to the Satrap's Palace _right_ _now_."

Monkey says, "You sure? There were assassins there. Might still be there. Can I take you to your house instead? Or maybe your uncle's?"

Imani frowns. "That is my house. We were at the Leopard's palace. Don't you know anything?"

Monkey says, "It was? But it was so big and grand I thought surely it's still part of the palace."

Monkey says, "In that case we must go right away to the palace."

Monkey says, "Let's go."

Imani explains, patiently. "The Satrap's Palace is in the Imperial Garrison. The Leopard's palace is in the Old City."

The GM . o O ( and I'll BRB. )

Monkey says, "Surgeon, tell everybody I'm going back to the palace. No need for an escort."

Monkey says, "There were two palaces? Seems like a colossal waste of wealth. Why not just use one? But nevermind that."

Monkey says, "Lead the way, my lady. And ummm, do you want to go through via the faster way or the slow way? The slow way is more comfy, I'm told."

The GM . o O ( back )

Imani says, "The fast way!" Under her breath, she mutters, "I'm in _so_ much trouble."

Once outside the ship, Monkey scoops Imani up with both hands and tells her, "Hold on" and starts jumping from rooftop to rooftop. They're all disappointingly low, but one must make do with what's available.

Monkey . o O ( Unless interrupted by ninjae, assume I'm at the Satrap's palace. )

The journey is swift, but it's not a short one... Following Imani's directions leads Monkey through the Old City, then along the Street of Palms and through the slums between the Old City and the Imperial Garrison. As you bounce over the Garrison's wall, you see the guards look up in surprise -- they're Harborhead troops, not Imperial legionnaires. Imani asks you to drop her at the edge of the clearing that surrounds the Satrap's Palace. "You can't come up to the palace, it would upset people."

Monkey looks crestfallen.

Monkey says, "In that case, I'd better go to the other palace. Take care, Imani. And hey, see you at that hunt or whatever."

She doesn't answer. She's walking up toward the Satrap's Palace.

The GM . o O ( and cut back to Kaizoku for the final scene of the night. )

The GM . o O ( whatcha doin' after talking to the Leopard? )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Time to size up Cathak Boruta! )

Admiral Kaizoku politely watches the hunt performance for a time and excuses himself, "not wanting to keep the Seat from his people" for too long. He moves in a roundabout way towards where the Dynasts mingle.

The GM . o O ( posing )

The Dynastic party is smaller than you'd expect -- only five people of note, not counting servants, and of those, only three obvious Dragon-Blooded. You can tell them because they're all wearing jade armor. Cathak Boruta stands out -- a largish man clad in green jade, with the House symbol worked into the breastplate. His armor's of the finest quality, as is the reaver daiklaive at his side. He is chatting idly with a patrician, a young man dressed in a robe of deep green mixed with off-white and carrying a writing tablet and stylus. Probably a secretary. Next to him is a Dragon-Blooded woman in red jade, quite beautiful but hard-faced. Probably fire aspect. Last of the Dragon-Blooded is another man, an Immaculate monk in white jade. He sees you approaching and whispers something to Boruta, then stalks off. He looks back over his shoulder at you with an expression of pure hate.

The GM . o O ( maybe I need to make a habit of shorter poses. anway. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( More, or my pose? )

The final Dynast is a very old man, a patrician, dressed in white tunic and trousers. He seems not to be doing much beyond watching the hunt and drinking something alcoholic.

Boruta pointedly ignores your approach until you're within a few steps. He's saying, "... and send it to our agent in Bent Creek. Any questions, Semuda?" The secretary type says, "None, my lord."

The GM . o O ( and now your pose )

Admiral Kaizoku has a relaxed posture as he approaches... he has no need to demonstrate his power to people like this. "Are you enjoying the performance?" he asks Boruta. "I have heard you are quite a hunter yourself. How does the show compare with your experiences?"

Just before it would really be rude not to, Boruta turns to meet the Admiral. "It is... a pale imitation of the Hunt, Anathema. And your own?"

Admiral Kaizoku says offhandedly "Oh, I must credit their skill and admire the effort they put into recreating something they have not experienced themselves. A difficult undertaking, just like building a society on past wonders one has no true understanding of..."

Monkey . o O ( zing )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Would have been nice to find out which side of the divide the Immaculate is on. )

Monkey . o O ( There's a divide? )

Monkey . o O ( I mean, I thought all immaculate thinks that Anathema must be destroyed. )

Boruta doesn't take the bait, and responds with, "Ah, but these are true hunters, not simply dancers. Look and see the scars -- you can see that each one has hunted lions, at the least. I believe that one in the white mask has even faced a simhata on the hunt. Scars, you see, are the true mark of a hunter... such as this one I bear here." He traces a small, pale line on his neck. "A reminder of a hunt a few years back, as I received from a forsaken beast."

Monkey . o O ( The only difference being when and how. )

Monkey . o O ( Ooo, that's a challenge. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Yes, and then there's the really intolerant faction that Peleps Deled now runs. )

Monkey . o O ( again, that's only a difference of when and how. )

The GM . o O ( waiting on Kaizoku's pose )

Admiral Kaizoku tilts his head. "The truly forsaken beasts are the walking dead and dying that swarm from the Shadowlands over the Threshold. Perhaps news of them has reached the Blessed Isle?" he asks mildly. "They are a challenge for any true hunter or warrior."

Boruta says, "Have your voyages taken you to the West, Admiral?"

Admiral Kaizoku says, "On occaision."

He continues, "Have you heard, then, of the new power in Abalone? One... like yourself... rules there now. The people flee her rule and some, I understand, travel to Onyx and throw themselves on the mercy of the Silver Prince, for he has some. And does not practice human sacrifice upon altars to a false god."

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Have I? )

Monkey . o O ( Oh dear, you have Lyta succeed in your Creation? For shame. )

The GM . o O ( Yep -- there's a Solar circle ruling in Abalone, and while there have been disturbing rumors, you haven't received any solid reports. They've only seized power within the last six months. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Oh oh, out of zingers. )

Monkey . o O ( How about this? "We may have to take care of that one too then." )

Admiral Kaizoku says levelly "Very troubling indeed, to hear of Solar Exalted abusing their power like that. I shall turn my attention towards the problem once the tide of human misery to and from the central isle is stemmed."

Monkey . o O ( I'm afraid we'll have to cut this session off pretty soon. It's getting really late in my timezone. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( I don't think the Solar-DB debate (or pissing contest) will be settled any time soon. )

Boruta says, "There will be no need. The legions will crush the demons soon enough and restore order to the land. As we will to all Creation."

The GM . o O ( and yeah, gonna end it very soon. )

Admiral Kaizoku says, "I do hope the surviving five great houses are up to the challenge... oh, there are still seven now, aren't there?"

Admiral Kaizoku says, "Very disconcerting, so many Dynast houses needing to be purged for being infested with demons, is it not?"

Boruta says, "The Host of the Dragon-Blooded will stand, and prevail, against all threats to Creation, as we have done since the beginning. ALL threats. Admiral."

Admiral Kaizoku says, "I quite believe you... The host will stand for as long as it has legs to support it."

The GM . o O ( man, these things never work. )

The GM . o O ( anyway, let's close on that line. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Better than someone shouting about murder and kidnap! )

Monkey . o O ( What things don't work? )

The GM . o O ( pissing matches. They just come off as petty, like two sorority girls trying to one-up each other at the party. )

Monkey . o O ( You mean they aren't? )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( At least no one was wearing the same dress as Monkey! )

The GM . o O ( they are -- but these are supposed to be a canny elder statesman and one of the great heroes of the age, not petty little bitches. )

Monkey . o O ( That's because none of them were using their Socialize charms. :) )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( the 20 die Presence whammy would have settled things, yeah. :) )

The GM . o O ( true 'nuff. Anything before we bail? )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Any BP? )

Monkey . o O ( Not really. )

The GM . o O ( sure, 2 each )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Big Game Hunting next week, fraught with political subtext? )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( The Solar and DB powers played off each other by the Seat to see who's mightiest? )

The GM . o O ( The big game hunting is going to take a few sessions, easy. Next session will probably be some kind of fallout from Monkey's escapade. )

Monkey . o O ( Alright! )

The GM . o O ( see you guys next week. )

Admiral Kaizoku . o O ( Yep! Nite! )

JesseLowe/PirateMonkeySession61

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Session 61 (Played January 7, 2007)

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