DO Lge Pb 62% ve Rines | THE HIDDEN EMPERORCONTENTS Introduetion ..-..- ‘Welcome tote Jade Epi! Rol ring Ding he Wr Asis the Danes. ‘New Mechanics ‘What is the Lying Darkues? ‘The Hidden Emperor parabens The Hidden Emperor — Tele. “The Early Reign of Torri Year £129, Month of che Tiger. Year £130, Month of che Hare Year 1130. Month of che Serpent Year 1130, Month ofthe Dog Year £130, Month of the Tiger. ‘Year £151, Month of the Hare Your 1131, Month ofthe Dragon Year 1131, Month ofthe Gout Year 1131, Month of the Ox ‘Year 1131, Month of the Monkey Year 1132, Month ofthe Hate ‘Whats New in Hiden Emperor [New Ancettre Hida Kisida ‘illofthe Heat New items Kiki Kang Journal New Kiko, esr of Suiteng est of Suitengs (Kio Fest). Heat of Suitengu (Water Kio) Soul ofthe Raging Storm Soul ofthe Raging Storm (Kiko Feat) Soul of the Raging Storm (Ai Kiko) [New Baths, School, an Techniques ‘The Asthins Archers ‘Asthma Archers (Prestige Ch) ‘The Asthina Archers (New Fath) Reclaiming the Land coms Wrath Saving the Teo. “The Ts ofthe Jade Campion Magisterial Privilege Imprint NPCs Cul ofthe Desroyer, Set AQuiet Death ‘Synopsis ‘Scene One: A Favor for an Imperi ‘Seene Two: The Schols Home ‘Scene Thre: The House of crystal Water. Seales Dark Journey Home ....-:.- ark Journey Home —Tineline. ‘esr 1132, Month of the Serpent Year 1152, Month ofthe Horse Year 1152, Month ofthe Gost ‘Whar’ New in Dat Journey Home « New Kiko, ‘Stik of Silene Waters (Kibo Fe). Surike of Slens Waters The Upina Fumly The Ujina Fighter School (resige Class) The Ujina Fighter School (Now Path) Heroic Opportunities “The Kolar Reveded “The Mantis Charter Avaleening Antiqulty Important NPCs, Calf the Destoyer,Ace TE Fist Impressions - ‘Background. Synopsis ‘Seene One: Heroic Opportunities Scene we: Det Nor Wed Honor Roxind . 2... = Honor Bouid Timeline... ‘esr 1132, Month ofthe Money Year 1132, Month ofthe Reoster ‘Year 1132, Month ofthe Dog Whats New Pu Lenge Skul “The third Mask Taluan Ancestor) Endless Vigilance (Ancestor: Takuan) Ancestor Takuan, Soul of the Loe Bandi Aral Important NPCS Galt ofthe Destioyer Act I ‘Weaving Threads Synopsis Seene One: Let ave a rey Scene Iwo: Flushing the Peey Scene Three: Smoke and Lie Ambitions Debt. .sossessssessee ‘Arbisions Bebe —Timelie, ‘Shinjos Hue Begins Year 1132, Month ofthe Boar Year 1132, Month ofthe Rar Year 1132, Month ofthe Ox ‘whats New “The Legion of Two Thousand the Legion of Two Thowsand (Prestige Class) “The Legion of hwo Thousand (Neor Path) Ancestor Ora Teeuko, Pentent Soul (ancestor: Ora Teruo) Ancestor Otaku Tetsuko, Ancestor Togahi Kaze Peacefil Hands (ances: Topas Kaze. “Ancestor Topas Kaze. Lond Moon Bone Day ofthe Dead Sins ofthe Pst. Important NPCS... Galt ofthe Destroyer Ae 1 30 a a 32 = 3 Fs 36 36 36 37 a8 239 “40 S40 42 3 baa 4s 45 45 46 48 48 +” 50 st es 52 2 54 ss 56 se se 7 7 7 ” Seene Ones Artval at Zenshow Tree Scene Two: Pleasant Conesition Soene thee: Death ofthe Moon Scene Four: Deparure Biseand Shadow .....-.. Fre end Shadow — Timeline ‘eat 1152, Month ofthe Tiger. Yosr 1132, Month ofthe Hise ‘What’ New. Falling tothe Darkness Gaining Shadow Pots. Powers of Darkness ‘Shadow Lesp Shadow Wave ‘Shadow Seduction Shadow Consumption, Darkness Spawn “The Agasha Maiden Lost Histories Village of Masks. ‘Important NPCs. Cult ofthe Destroyer, Aer Know the Evil. ‘Synopsis Scene One: Warning ie. Scene Tyo: Burning Fie Scene three: Fallot... Soul of the Empire Soul ofthe Empice —Timeline. ‘Year 1133, Month ofthe Dragon Year 1133, Month of the Serpent». Year (133, Month ofthe Horse Year 1133, Month ofthe Goat. What New... [New Ancestors ‘actcal Mind. Asscestor Dojt Kuweanan. New Items Dragons Toth, iro The Ancestral wor ofthe Kin New Schools, Paths, and Techniques. Naga Hunters [Naga Hunters (Prestige Class). [Naga Hunters (New Path) {jine Tokimase Accused (Old Debre epad Importane NPCs. Ga ofthe Destoper, Act VE The Destroyers Isle Seene One: On the Open See Seene Two: Confzonration Scene Thre: Aftermath Appendix One... Resolution Appendix Two... “The Five Cities Appendix Three .... cr ‘Stepping Away From CanonWELCOME TO THE JADE SMPrir=! For those of you whe have been following the recent sourcebooks in Legend of the Five Rings, this book may appear a bit strange. Compared to the current ongoing storyline, is something oF step back, a retelling of various stories Fr long-time fans of the ESR CCG, the tals in this book will be fomilise. This sourcebook retells the Hidden Emperor story arc from the Legend of the Five Rings Collectible Card Game. Just a8 ‘Time ofthe Void explored the Clan War, The Hen mp isa sourcebook dat covers this very specific rime inthe Legend ofthe Five Rings continuity The War Against the Darkness. “Though there area number of new mechanical opts in this book for player use, we recommend shat only the GM. ‘ead any further Each chapter contains a number of spoilers relating tothe ongoing story thatthe GM may wish 10 work snro his own campaign, so by spoiling the Furie, youre only hurting yourselt Why take a step back? ‘The most recently published LSR sourcebooks are set over three decades afer the events in this book took place. Why ‘would we want to dwell on the past? To put it simply, the Hidden Emperor period was too interesting to ignote any longer. A significant period that colored many important events, many questions were left unanswered. A large number of fans wished to know more about the War Against the Darkness —what happened, when ithappened, why it happened, and how. This book answers as many of those questions as possible or those players with campaigns se in modern Rokugan, this book cin still be quite useful, The timelines are an invaluable history resource, and a possible inspiration for adventure hooks set in the present. (What happened to the ‘cate where Ritsu Okura first met Akuma, for example? I it suill standing?) The new mechanical options, naturally, are timeless and can be used in almost any campaign. And this i to say nothing of enterprising GMs who may wish 10 update the adventure in this book for their modern campaign, or even burl the players into the paths taken by their own, aneestors and watch them attempt to survive the War Against the Darkness ‘This isnt my story. In a game like Legend of the Five Rings, where player characters share a setting with well known fictional characters, there is always the danger that the player characters will never live up to the example of the seting's famous heroes. Just because the timeline describes the War ‘Against the Darkness ina linear fashion does not mean that the player characters cannot affect events in some manner. “They should feel as though they ae minor players ina larger game, or that they simply look on as heroes such as Ginawe and Isawa Hochiu perform marvelous deeds. The GM is highly encouraged 10 adapt the War Against the Darkness to showease the player characters. Feehaps in your eampaign, Ginawa and Hiroru never begin their quest. Rerhaps Otaku Kamoko never rescues the Emperor. Perhaps Hochiu never steps forward to battle Goju Adorai, Perhaps the player characters are the ones to fulfill these role, and perhaps the ‘war does not end quite che same way as it ends here. The possibilities are endless. ‘What youl find inthis book... This hole is divided into six chapters each of which is named after che original CCG expansions during the Hidden Emperor story ate. Each covesa dfferene portion of that time period. Though the first chapter cavers wider time span than the other five, many important events huppen inthe later chapters so they have been divided and spread evenly 10 prevent confusion ‘Each ehapter begins with fletion set in that rime period, followed by. timseline tha deseribes the major events. This is followed in tur by asectin detailing new mechanies for this period advenrure hooks, and deseriptions of important NPCs that became prominent at this time. Each chapter concludes with part of an ongoing campaign se during the War Against the Darkness What dot need to use this adventure? ‘While many of the NPCs in this book use character options fiom various LSR sourcebooks, all you really need isthe Player's Guide and the Game Masters Guide (for the traditional system) ox Roluge, the Payers Handbook and the Dugeon Aastr’s Gude (forthe d20 system). While the various NPCs use character options from all the L5R sourcebook, the ongoing eatmpaign in each of the chapters is designed eo draw only upon options presented in the care ‘books and sis volume. you wish to use an NPC and do not have accesso everything listed in his or er stats, fel free to cei thei tts to your liking ROLE-PLAYING DURING THE WAR AGAINST THE DARKNESS Mach like Time of he Void, The Hidden Enipeyor describes 9 particularly bloody and divisive time in Rokugan’s history, “Many LSR campaigns feature mixed partes with charecers of sulriple clans. Can a Phoenix shugenja and Mantis samurai peacefully coexist ina party while Yoritomo lays siege to Kyuden Asako? The GM should consider questions such as these carefully lest these events that nearly shattered an “Empire shater the cmpaign as well ‘Thete are several options that could help a party remain together during the War Against the Darkness. Most obvious isa party composed entirely ofa single clan (though in the case of a Crane or Dragon party even this is not foolproof during this period). Obviowsly this sort of campaign comes about only on the rarest oceasion and is unlikely 10 occur without che players and GM agreeing upon it in advance. ‘Another option comes from an old standard of LSR ‘campaigns, the magistrare party. After the Emperor’ disappearance, lawlessness and chaos are widespread. The need for loyal, durifal magistrates is greater than ever. A party of Emerald Magistrates will be truly tested, forced to work together to preserve the unity ofthe Empire even as thelr clans enter war with one anotherA third option appears rather obvious, given the name of the sourcebook: Though each clan may have a separate objective, they are united in their loyalty to the Emperor. Following Toraris kidnapping, perhaps the party gathers 10 attempt to discover what has become of Torur. Each player character might bear different clues, different pieces 0 a puzzle that can only be completed by joining forces. Once they find the Emperor, no doubs the player characters will realize something is dreadfully wrong. If they know too ‘much, Goju Adorai and bis brethren will inevitably begin to hunt them, Even player characters from warring clans will be forced to band together by circumstance, allying against an ‘enemy that only they understand. This requires abit of extra work on the partof the GM and players ales they figure out how their player characters relate tothe mystery at hand, but results ina rewarding experience. The only real challenge in playing 4 eampaign during this period {s, a8 in Time of the Void, Scorpion characters. The Scorpion Clan is blamed for Toruris disappearance and exiled 1 the Burning Sands early in the story, thus any Scorpion character caught in Rokugan is likely to be arrested and ‘executed 25a raltor A handful of Seorpion during this time period remained in Rokugan, hiding among the populace by ‘emoving their masks and posing as ronin. This option shoul be offered to Scorpion player characters, but with a measure of caution. Any Scorpion who remains in Rokugan after the Emerald Champion’ edict takes an extraordinary risk, Those captured will be shown no mercy. Some player characters will see this as an exciting challenge, but the GM must be careful not t coddle Seorpion who have gone “underground.” A Scorpion in hiding should be in a constant struggle to keep the truth hidden. Further, those Scorpion whe remain will be expected o spare no effort in finding a way to redeem their clan stained honor. Any Scorpion who dodges his clans punishment and spends his time in Rokugan idle will find his kinsmen most displeased when they finally return New MECHANICS ‘The Legend ofthe Five Rings game setting has been officially presented in swo separate game systems, the Legend of the Fer Rings RPG 2nd Eeition System (presented in the Mayer's Guide and Game Masters Guide) and Wizards of the Coast’ 420 System™ (presented in Rokugan,” theofficial supplement 10 Orel Advent. While these 1wo systems are somewhat dissimilar, the setting presented in hoth versions ofthe game isthe same and thus it 8 ou inten to presene a sourcebook that is useful no matter which ofthese systems you choose ‘o use when running your game. Generally, when a new rule or mechanic is presented, whenever applicable we will present equivalent d20 System™ and LSR RPG 28 System versions in close proximity Rales and options for the 420 System™ look like this, Rules and options for the L5R RPG 2E System look like this. (Occasionally extensive new information may be exclusive toa specific system (such as New Paths for the L5R RPG 2E System or new feats for the d20 System"). In such a case, the information wall follow the same convention as above. “The d20 System™ material will appear in black and the LsR. RPG 2E System material in blue In the ease of characters, occasionally a character's name will be followed by a short explanation of his character class in lieu of fall statistical information, Such an exaiple might Took like this TORITAKA TATSUNE [Samurai 6/Berserker 4/Shadowlands Veteran 10; Hida Bushi 5/Hida Avenger 3] ‘The information presented before the semicolon is the characters class and level inthe d20 System: The informa tion presented after the semicolon is the character’ rank and school in the L5R RPG 2E System. Sometimes material must be presented for one system ‘or the other: In such cases, this text will be contained in a callout box with a gray background, such asthe one below. The headers for these boxes will clea label which informa tion is for the d20 System™ and which information is for che ISR RPG 2nd Edition (LSR RPG 26") WHAT 1S THE L ang DARK ‘You may note that many of the evens that take place in the history section seem rather curious or contradierory: Most such events will explain that this resules from manipulations by the Lying Darkness also known as Nothing, « powerful force for evil that is highly active during this ime period. Before the world existed, there was Nothing. When Nothing realized it was alone, it became afraid, and created ‘one third ofthe world. Ic desited a companion, and created snorberthitd. When it realized chat it had ruined dhe perfect nothingness ofthe universe and regretted what it had done, the world became complete When Lady Sun and Lord Moon went abour the task of handing out names to everything that existed, Nothing decided that it did not want a name. Ic begged the shadow to hide itso that it would nor be noticed, and thu: tundefined, and an embodiment ofthe formless void thar once was Nothing hid within the shadow and watched carefully, looking for a way to destroy this world it had accidentally zmade. It saw potential in the youngest of Lord Moons children, the one named Fu Leng, Fu Leng was wise but also very artogant with «rage deep inside him tha, ifempered properly could destroy all that existed. Nothing came to Fu ‘Leng and revealed itself, told him the true origins of the universe, and taught him the ways of magic. I offered to ally with him, to grant him true power if it would help him sunmake al ofevistence. Fu Leng listened intently for along time, When Nothing finished teaching him, the young Kami stisked and refused toally witht. Nothing became enraged and attacked Fu Leng, bur the Kami already knew too much. He defended himself witha erystal sword, cutting off a piece of Nothing and ‘wounding i teibly.Iled back into the shadows, Bitte and tersfied, Nothing turned instead t0 Lord Moon, ‘his time, did nor reveal itself te whispered in Lord Moon'slore Yat—t- (er b- ean de Leng, ing him to madness, curning bis suspfcions egainst Pa ‘As Lord Moon hunted his children, Nothing olfeced Ft Leng a place to hide in the shadow a final chance co form an alliance, Before Fu Leng could teply,Togashi drew his brother from the shadows and both were devoured by Lord Moon, Nothing considered this an acceptable conclusion until Hance arrived and rescued his siblings. They fell ro the mortal, realm, where Lord Moon would no longer chase after them. As the Kami fell, Nothing flew to darkest Jigoku in an instant, It whispered in the ear of the living Realm of Evi, warning it that the Kami were dangerous and must be destroyed — Fu Leng most of all. But Jigoku was more intrigued than afraid of the way Noching described Fu Leng. The realm snatched Fu Leng ashe fell from the sky, dragging him deep into the earth and suffusing him with its corrup’ Nothing now became even more afraid. This Fu Leng was powerful, and he knew its weaknesses. I had acted too rasbly in seeking an aly, and instead hed created a powerful rival Nothing saw bur one recourse — to retreat into shadow and hope that Fu Leng forgot about i ‘When the Seven Thunders defeated Fu Leng, Nothing tejoiced. Icknew, however that Fa Leng was not truly dead, 0 it hurcied to his ruined keep to find a weapon thar might be used against the Kami when he returned. Ir found the severed obsidian hand of Onnotangu, Lord Moon, and drew it into the shadows. As it fled from the Shadowlands, it came across the humans who had survived the battle with Fu Leng, One, surprisingly encugh, was not truly human at all, but made from the piece of Nothing that Fu Leng had carved away 50 long ago. Nothing offered Shosuzo a chance to escape, if she helped it She agreed, and for centuries the __ Lying Darkness used the Scoxpion, CClanasits eyes and ears, study ing the world so that it Ul . py stl? 020 AND L5R Since 2001, Legend of the Five Rin Peco en catt ese cre iets ie erent enc res sao ics pepeerey bers rt ee ened will be the last Legend of the Five Rings book that ruses the d20 system. A number of factors contributed to this decision, including the fact that Oriental Adventures (a book which the L5R sourcebooks draw upon but which was not printed by Alderac Enter: Perera eee sete ent book, all future Legend of the Five Rings sourcebooks see eee ee ee eras ag eee peer c ce eres eet erences Se ecg ea Pee eee eee eo a of the original system who have stuck with us the Co ees een) Edition as much as you've enjoyed everythi a eae system period, we sincerely hope that you'll stick ornare Cr Ln ns might better know hove to unmake it.I never truly under stood the world —it could not understand and remain what it ‘was. Instead, it found bursans who were willing t help, The hhouse of the ninja named Goju fell our of favor and was to be executed for treason. The Lying Darkness drew them into shadow and made them its servants. For centuries it waited, plotted, and planned fora chance to tunmake the world again. Ie stayed close to Onnotangy, whis: pering in Lord Moons ear, driving him ever deeper into mad ness, Lord Moon, it reasoned, was its only defense should Fu Leng ever rerurn to hune it once mare ‘Though Onnotangu believes the litte shadow is his willing servane, ip truth he has become its Z, unthinking slave. When the Darkness unleashes its power upon the mortal realm again, Onno- tangu will serve as its most powerful minion, ‘On the Day of Thunder, the only true obstacle remaining, the only one who could truly ‘oppose the Darkness, was destroyed. With Fu Leng dead, could anyone truly stop the Lying Darkness from casting all the reais into Deep For two years the Darkness subtly spread is {influence throughout the Empire. As Hidden Emperor ‘opens, there is not a single being in Rokugan who has not felt its touch, Its influence is always subtle bbut inevitably profound. In its wake it leaves doubs, shame, indecision, causes noble men to do foolish things. While ies mortal servants bring distraction and chaos, the Darkness’ subtle influence insures that Rokugan’s heroes will deal wich the resulting crises poorly: Can even the greatest heroes ofthe Empice triumph against a menace with such insidious power? Read on and see TMM MAM NII VRSa Bi yulen foi, 1130. Ben uy yee he Dy of Teun las amd io jude ale te sas of tr Cla Wah once ping towers find olliged-end’many ofthe las fans ats the Empire or the knowledge they contained, were erly. Pe oess sivouriing the ty rele he devastation shay as lange satis had ben bur ay faving ie bt ah ther wake Yet evr i the st of ts toapndy, hie Phois ere ring, a a new frst ws groting te ch soi fey De destruc of he old. ‘Natun’ fort te vest the tan wes echoed bythe worn: sedhin de ity Sell were coped rom ater Phen sionghohis and acquired from other Clas construction was ongoong, and Jealty was offered a suger from-weiss the Empire. AlTough ‘work as fr from complet, the Phos, ike thor nares ‘tere illad whoa were determined le tha oye rece ‘mane nal ee fer fom he ub af the cate’ cot = ‘onl dhlven were ali henge ha fae of he Cs, OF “use, ike wilde, hey didnot rele he alications.of inhat hey wine dg ete Bron hi paps, they ore being asked tw imeereretolengand mri paral fam he New “in, il seemed to thew young ees he que pints. Aer. all hey were shugena-i-feining, he mast promising students ‘the Phoeni had fo aller Why Aid they need last heir tne studying kaans ond ils when hey were he fata the ot the Pha? : ‘adh an Astha orphaned by the dar ue sue he ket hy the exercise was porta "owe! he said, "is rolng ethan wisdont to gute ik Shunt, one of de elder students lated he fom ndiatng Asagrmest No, Nich sly she gent chded the younger oy "Ne stady Hes fo expand our pci owes treat ‘with the Rai ad us bicome beter sugenja’ The students looked expt He sme -AC the head ofthe classtoown the sens loghed baci at her atudens Aout wou nba lve wifi bn sparing Harte eof the dren: te ele og mt yet entered her ‘ces ws dificult tt apart from Cheek of the las, consicting af clio, fm 10.018 jos of age Hoste, evel observer ‘Would Have noticed sue differents botivern her an herpes her hough chlarty gaze the pose of smcae wha bert ‘our the easy stad of one wh tas triveled many harsh oa’. Most stint washer vo poses ely, wear, owing ‘erdanty he Kind expected froma evered monk af the Broker. Ingo nob a young grt was This wice that held her adents ental a saa Ong answer her question “the ty bth ipl and me copes then you think she sid bong paws, lad copy he Ness Ta. “As you Aeon the shows us how the Food Renan se’ the wak* ‘She pons, vitng for respon. But why sid mporka that weumdesiand how Hooded ‘Romine the wold. benuse elles Emperor Tol il “Hu Leng” Nichi aed. ‘Auily his eldover the dassal Nicki's imusive lous Fu Lrg was. frightonng figure io mention, ahi the ikdrn had lesrneb tht sie isdsappeansee,Zlun meme was never be sd lightly, gy indeed by evker name, prceded wih her lesson: i “These slorsshowhow onieighoned mar looks the ond around hin, and how he ses himself i the order of this 8y examin fs prablis-we can unidersahd what he ait, and why! i “ut what fe dogo th what he bees Amag-= wr Eyer orate ti} WAG NWAvartnANwWAVvaArtN WAG ee) ee “rat 1 fine. The point i not todo everything he dd, butt..." ‘Osugi tailed off ssh sealed forthe cored phrase. “The elements, spl nahin eve the Rami al havea roe fo play They ft ogther. ‘Understanding how and why different paris interac isan importent| step finding your out path The Tao explains how the Ronin found his way, to show as how we might find our own. Osugi wind at her filow childven. “Our duis are more complicated than studying ‘magic and giving devotions o the kam? ‘A gang sunded outside the class, signating the end ofthe day's lessons. The class hewed deeply t2 Osugi, and after the traditional Ariat, sens the child gathered their eres and ran of, many to sly, sme to various dues, ana afew simply lo enjoy thems. ‘Csugl gathered her supplies, ard ead towards her quarters ithe central ower of thecal, ‘Shun, who had en seating for sug fll no step beside het ‘with clas complete, the ell nt easyconversalion, with Shumin the elder and more outgoing ofthe two, talking exitely about various happenings around the castle, Eventually, conversation drifted tows gempuka cersmonies, which would be happening in a few days "Are you excited, Osugirhan? Finally, afer al hese years of sty, we wll be wal shugna!™ ‘Osugi mili at her frend." We ave alivad ral shugenia, Shum. ‘Our genus jst a chance forus to prove thal we are ready fo serve the Clan Mischiof and disbelief colored Shur deep blac eyes. “I know youve assed Lsukuonesama, attended Imperial Cour, and been Selected by The Hooded Ronin to vecrd the New Tao, fu eve the legendary awe Osugs mast be looking forward to her long-delayed sgempul! “Of coure Lam! 1 have been waiting for this snc the Clan Wa, but 1 was lays 0 busy Osugi gaze wandered os im memories ‘Shunin nodded. "We mised you toa" ‘Osugi looked ack at Shui, ad her smile veturned. “Is good to be back eve had new kimono tailored forthe occasion ‘Shun giglod. "That sore lke 1 jst hope our new yojimbos will eppecgie how important we are” ‘Oxigi rolled her ees, andthe tivo walked cheyfally back to their rooms, chatting all the way Oxi entered her room with a contented sgh. While it was afin sxvkward for her tobe called pom to teach students who frequently sve older than she was, her duties im the lst two years had been far taser than they were during the Clan Wars. It fac, she rather tnjoyed the challenges of instruction, as concepts and incantations that came intustvely to her often-eluded shugenja many years her Fortunes willing, afer her gempulkeu, she hoped to take on an sping Ishi as am apprentice, Sho would have done so long ago, as Ishikee were rae a the best of times and it was vital forthe futere of the Phos to tim mew oes as son as possible, bu it was simply imprtica for her take an apprentice prior ta her graduation fo adulthood. Osugi shook her headin arnusement. Looked at from: the ‘ouside a great many things about hor situation were simply absurd ‘Ohh sureyel her oom, twas fail lange as bit the rome ofa instnictor and whole ofthe Tawa, but was also sparsely furnished, result of Osu fequemt travels. ew noteworthy possessions adored the rom, save for smal selection of oufits in a comer closet and ‘tbe wel socked with paper, pens and inks. The only unusual item in the room was an unopened red box by the base of her futon, ‘onfaiming her new kumono. Placing er srl satchel down upon the tale, she sat downs and proceeded to write. Gran Maser Kuro had requested her assistance im vesearching a new ritual, and she had sone eas se wanted to experiment with before bringing thems to his tention. Sometime passe before a wice at Her door drew Osu atention way from her work, “Onaga, fF may intrude.” (sug tured her head and saw the kindy, weathered fetes of ‘Naka Kuno, Grand Master of he Elements.and sense to the Phoenix Can, at her door. Rising smoothly to fae him, she bowed deeply. "Master Kuro, how may Ie of service?” ‘Naka Kuo stepped into her chamber sing the door shut behind Jun. He spear wncharaclerstcaly hesitant, perhaps as. esl of watever as wnifen om the llter he was carrying in his hands sgt met his gaze and waited “Osugi! begon Kuro, “this missive ervived today from Otosan Ui fell hat should dies this wth you before camposing eons! ‘sug nodded her curiosity piu. What would prompt Nak to consult wit her prio o making a deision? “Acconing to his, there appear t have been several discrepancies fod between the copes ofthe Tao dsrbuted acros the Empire. The Aehatesbetuwen various groups egarding interpretation have became site heated” Kuro paused, ‘Osu aba shugenja and solar herelf was aware of how intense isagreements could become. "1 believe L understand, Masi Kuro “They would lke to have their debate veslued, but do not wish to remove te eriginal copy ron the impriat Libraries ovr this" “es. nd since only you and Emperor Turi were present tis inception, and the Emperors missing." "1am the logical pean oasis” Osag agreed. "Master Kur, wy did you come ere to inform me ofthis? What decisions thereto temade?™ “Apparently, this matter is of concern tothe Imperial Cour enough 50 that they would like you fo travel there immediately. ‘ShinjoYokatsu sm putida has tated tha he Believes your serves ‘would be invaluable, and has convinced the Court to effer the ens tmperalasistance in our rebuilding effrts upon your rival asa gesture of gate” “very well will prepare to depart ai once” Kuro shook his head. “Osugi, the missive was a request, not a demand” ‘Onugi looked out her window for]a momtent, a the towers stl being sed, the homes sil bg bul. "Master Kur, the Lmperi assistance is substantia, isi nl” "yes" he Twi go now” there sno hurry. You can certainly bw allowed afew days "The sooner I erive at Olosan Uchig te sooner the ven will {ish being born anes” Kuro watched as Ong gathered her few Jongg from the oom. *Onugh, Shinjo Yokatsu is nota particularly pious man. Why ‘would he intercede on our behalf?” Compassion, perhaps? The Master ofthe Four Winds skmawn to ‘very sistent when he wants something” Isawwa Onugi finshed her packing, and sid open the door. She bewed agin fo the Grand Master af the Elements “Farewell, Master Kuo” Naka Kio wasleft alone her room, the space barren sae foran snaps ed box,THS HIDDEN EMPEROR - TIMELINE EARLY REIGN OF TOTURI I As the Hidden Emperor saga begins, two years have passed since the events described in Time of he Vou. Totus 1 reigns from the newly crafted Jade Throne in the heart of Otosan Uchi. With Fu Leng slain and he destinies of the Seven ‘Thunders flied, Torus proclaims a new age, an Age of Man, the age ofthe Jade Empire. The early days of Totais rule are a peaceful time, expecially compared to the tumultuous events of the Clan War. After facing Fu Leng's armies, even the most batrle-hardened generals seem willing to put aside their personal feuds and snimosites forthe sake of ebuling the Empite ~ at ast THE CRAB CLAN (CURRENT LEADER: HIDA YAKAMO) The Clan War caused many to look upon the Crab with fear and distrust, but Crab Champion Hida Yakamo has fought hard to win back the Crabs honor. The Ksiu Wall has been repaired and once again stands asa symbol of defiance against the Shadowlands. Through an alliance with the Nags, Hiruma Castle has been retaken and rebuilt. Kuni shugenja perform situs that leave the castle and its immediate environs free of | the Taint, and begin plans to purge the entire Hirama tecrtories ofthe Taine as well, Former Crab Champion Hida Kisada dies shortly after hearing the news that Hiruma Castle has returned to Czab hands The Falcon Clan longtime neighbors ofthe Crab, is measly wiped out when mako-fukais ritual unleashes a powerful spirit in their lands, With aid from the Crab, the Faleon sucvive, but only just. Unable to continue protecting their lands without aid, the Falcon swear fealty to the Crab Champion. Totuti gives the alliance his blessing, and the ‘Toritaka become the newest family of the Ceab Clan THE CRANE CLAN (CURRENT LEADER: DOT! KUWARATD Once the wealthiest clan, much of the Crane’ fortune was either looted during the Clan War or exhausted hiring rmercenaties to help defend their besieged territories. With the ascension of the Toturi Dynasty, many Crane ae left scrambling to rebuild their webs of political influence. “Though the Crane novs lack the politcal and economic power that once defined them, ironically they now possess quite respectable military might. Given all the crises they faced during the Clan War, those who serve under Kuwanan’s banner are among the most resourceful and experienced soldiers in the Empire. Kuwanan charges his most trusted ‘general, Daidoji Uji, with protecting the clans borders until they can rebuild their influence in the new Emperors court. THE DRAGON CLAN (cuRREnt LEADER: HITOMD Following the death of Dragon Champion Togashi Yokuni on the Day of Thunder, the Order of Togashi unexpectedly recognize the Dragon Thunder, Mirumoto Hitor, at the new Dragon Champion, Sone Togas even sweat fealty to Hitomi, taking her name a their family name. Hitomt abandons the Mirumoto name te honor theis devotion. She soo learns chat ‘with Togashis wisdom she has alo gained the power to grant mystic tattoos, though the powers granted by her tatoos tend to be darker and more violent than her predecessors. Under Hitomi$ rule, the Dragon become even more reclusive than before, retreating into their mountain homes and seldom interacting with outsiders. Stange, handful of individualsin every clan hear the siren songel"the Lady and ‘venture into the mountains, where they receive mystic tattoos and take the Hitomi name “Though Hitomi does not yet realize it, fragment of the Tying Darkness, which for centres as ain darmant within the Obsidisn Hand she wears, i awakened by the power she inherited fom Togashi. The Darkness and Togsshis influence war for control over Hitomi foul. The new Dragon Champion gradually descends into madness. Uncertain what ‘s happening and desperate for guidance, ftom invites the filler tamashii, Kolin, nto the High House of Light -Kokujin, who takes the Hitomi name, advises shat Hom cannot find balance unless she ean guarantce the loyalty of ‘those who follow her He demands that ll Togashi abandon their name and swea fealty tthe order of Hitomi. These who refuse todo 0 are exe from the Dragon Clan. Ina searing move; Hitomi unleashes her tattooed men upon thot Logaabi unwilling or unable to leave, butchering them on the spot in their home monasteries, Among those slain is Hitomls own grandfather, Togas Gajutsa THE LION CLAN (CURRENT LEADER: IKOMA TSANURD “The early eign of Torur is a roubling time for the Lion. Their loyalty to the Hantei Dynasty was unquestioned, so to see the ced of the Hante andthe coronation of dishonored member of their own clan is to many, unehinkable. The fact that Toturt I defeated the dark god Fu Leng vedeems him in the eyes of most Lion, but nonetheless « handful request the right to seppuku to express their distaste for this new dynasty. ‘Ironically, the Lion Clans opposition to Toturis reign is not asstrongasitcould have been considering that many of those most loyal tothe Hantei died on the Day of Thunder. Some, including the renowned tkoma Ujiaki, continued to fight “Toturi the Usueper" in the Hanteis name even as Fu Leng’s troops tore them apart. As former student of Toeur, Toma ‘Tanuri recognizes that the Empire is in capable hands and does her best to stamp out any resentment toward the new Emperor with simple reason and endless patience. THE MANTIS CLAN 7 yORITOMO'S ALLIANCE (CURRENT LEADER: YORITOMO) Catapulted to Great Clan status by the new Emperor’ edict the Mantis have spent the lst two years struggling to earn the respect of their fellow clans. Though only the foolish would dare understate Yoritomo’s heroism or the sacrifices the Alliance made during the Clan War, few aze willing to afford them the same privileges asa Great Clan. To complicate mat- ters, many of the Minor Clan samurai who allied with Yorie ed i) = TOU te Ba = =a | ict EB A ce} ‘i wzFh fas Ba = Ta) 1) Ter ee ey pera IL} como during the war begin co etumn to their homes. The Son of Storms swifly cealizes tha the fortunes of war brought him preatness, but without wat the Yoritomo family may soon und alone once more Disgusted at the lack of dedication shown by other members of the alliance, Truruchi of the Wasp Clan swears fealty o Yoritomo. He does not cake the Yoritomo name, however, instead promising shat one day his faily will serve the Mantis under his ovin name, Yoritome is greatly impressed by the Wasps ambition THE PHOENIX CLAN (CURRENT LEADERS: SHIBA TSUKUN=, NAKA KURO? Following the Clan War, the Phoenix are in estat of near-total tin, Most of their most prominent shugenja are dead o missing, including the entire Elemental Council. though the new Phoenix Champion, Shiba Tsukune, possesses the sme soul that has guided ler predecessors since the founding of the Emipite, she isa victual unknown in the courts and has reat difficulty making the needs of her clan hea. ‘Though times are bleak for the Phoenix, a ray of hope shines upon them, Naka Kuro, Grand Master of the Elements, retums to the clan of his birth. He reopens the doors of the Asawa Academy, inviting any and all with the git of magic to study as shogenja Within months, the halls of Kyuden Isawa are filled with promising novices. Kuro keeps a careful eye ‘open far those who show the potential to become new ‘Elemental Mastes, THE SCORPION CLAN (CURRENT LEADER: BAYUSHI KACHIKOD Tellowing the Day of Thunder, che once dishonored Scorpion Clan i recurned to Great Clan sats under the rule of the former Empress, Bayushi Kachiko. Thotgh this move gsins Tot litle populariey én the courts, it does earn him the unwavering loyalty ofthe Scorpion Clan —and Toturi knows thatthe loyalty of «Scorpion ss powerful thing indeed The ‘samurai of the Clan of Secrets begin to rebuild their ravaged houses while thete enemies wait carefully fr them ta prove unworthy of the Emperor's trust. In the meantime, the shugenje of the Sosbi family notice that a disturbing number of Scorpion agents who possess kage yin (shadow brands) brave disappeared on missions and have not etummed, THE Unicoan CLAN (CURRENT LEADER: SHINTO YOKATSUD Like the Dragon Clan, the Unicorn escaped the Clan War largely unscathed. Due to their relasive strength, Totuel I grants large ntumber of Unicorn magistrates Emerald Magis trate status to restore peace throughout the Empire, For many ‘months the Unicorn ride across the Empire, desteoying rem: nants of Fu Lang army as well as opportunistic bandits seele {ngto profi from the chaos ofthe Clan War. In short onder the sight of Unicorn horsemen becomes synonymous with law and onder. This is « development that sits quite well with Shinjo Yokarsu, secretly one of the Ten Masters of the Kol THE SHADOULANDS (CURRENT LEADERS: KUMI YORI, KYOSO NO OND Despite the Crab Clan’s best efforts to kill him, che traitor Kunt Yori escapes the battlefield on the Day of Thunder The mad shugenje even somehow manages to infiltrate the Imper jal Pelace and steal the bead ofthe dead Emperor from the funeral pyre. Fleeing to the Shadowlands, he attempts 10 ‘muster what forces he can for his inevitable vengeance upon the Crab Clan. Yoris waitings, entitled Owths an Betrayal become a call co arms among the Lost. However, some who adwoll in the Shedowlands do not wish to bow to another leader so soon after their bitter defeat. The Oni Lord Kyoso no Oni becomes one of Yoris most visible opponents, going so far asto slaughter any creature she sees who wears the mon once worn by Yopo Junzos followers, THE TGA (CURRENT LEADER: THE OAMARD “Though they now have some measure of acceptance among hhurvans the Naga are cautious neighbors at best. As gesture cof goodwill they dispatch their armies to ald the Crab in retaking Hirama Castle. Among the mystic jakla of the Cobra bloodline, hope forthe future begins to wear cin, The Cobra ‘once believed that dhe awe spell which had eas ther entre race into endless slumber was a an end, but now i sees that the return of Fu Leng was merely a brie! interruption Throughout the Shinomen, Naga begin to retuen to theit slumber, The Cobra do thie best to conceal the truth fr now all ds while doing what they can to find away to reverse the spell THE BROTHERHOOD OF SHINS: (CURRENT LEADER: TAKAO) “The monks of Shinsei serie into a strangely unfamiliar role following the Day of Thunder the tole of heroes Rare isthe peasanr who has not heard ofthe Hooded Ronin or the many ‘other monks ho toak parm to defend themselves from Fa Leng armies. The lesser classes continue to look upon the brothers of Shinsei with an increased measure of awe and respect, a change that some ofthe more humble initiates find very assed Shorlybelore the Hooded Ronin vanishes into obscusiy his conversations with the new Emperor are recorded in 4 document that has come to be known as the New Tao. Many ‘Shinseist scholars eagerly dive ino studying ths"Tao. A few ae surprised by the implications inherent in the New To, including a heightened emphasis onthe need to cast of false loyalties end find enlightenment theough free and independent thought. None suspect that Isawea Osugi, the seribe who recorded the New Tuo, has subely seeded the dlocument with Kola subtext ‘Upon their exsle from the Dragon lands, many former “ogishi find a weleome home among the Brotherhood “Though the fllowets of Shins cannot hegin to understand the circumstances that would lead Hitomi to exile and slaughter her own kinsmen, they are more than eager to grant refuge othe survivors. ToTURI'S ARMY (CURRENT LEADER TOTURI D “The unlikely band of ronin andl ourcasts who once followed the Black Lion are perhaps more surprised than anyone else when their leader becomes Emperot, As most ofthe former Imperial Guard died on the Day of Thunder, Toturioffees all those who once followed him positions in the Imperial Guard. Many ofthe surviving members ofthe former Imperial Guaed likewise begin to wear the symbol of the wolf in recognition (of Tonuris days asa ronin hero.‘Toku, one of the most famous heroes of the Clan Wat, comes forward shortly after the Emperor's coronation and confesses to Torus that he is not truly a samurai, He humbly requests thatTorur allow him one last rrue act as 2 samurai — seppultu.Toturi denies Tokis request, claiming that Toku was 2 truer samurai than most born to the name. He also names Tol the Captain ofthe Imperial Guard (though Takuan con- tinues to command the Emperor’ troops in the field) and names a new Minor Clan, the Monkey, with Toku as its daimyo. The Monkey are not yer granted any official lands, but imalke their home in the Imperial Cty YERR 1129, MONTH OF THE TIGER (LATS WINTER) NoRIKAZU'S RAVINGS Ista Norikaza, one of the few skilled Phoenix shugenja to survive the Dey of Thunder, falls nto a deep fever for fice days, During the fever, he spouts a range af wild prophecies, allof which are dually recorded by Phoenix sribes who ate aware of Norikazu's gifts The prophecies, referred to as Novia Revngs, ate a mad hodgepodge of vague ramblings and very specific references to upcoming threats tothe Empire. One ofthe more memorable verses states that When darkness falls over the Empire, vo men will rie forth to save it One man wil find his master and the ecer wil ill hi” Even moc ds curbing isa warning thatthe Phoenix choose o keep to themselves — that the Splendid Emperor will die by his cow hand OTAKU KAMOKO DISMPPEARS For years, Orakeu Kamoko has bunted forthe truth behind her mothers mysterious deach, Over the last ewo years she has tuncovered a variety of clues pointing to sinister conspiracy woven throughout her own clan. Uncertain who to trust, she vanishes from Unicom lands without warning, She pursues her only true lead — that the Lion general Mate Agetoki commanded the army that killed her mother Shortly after Kamoko disappears, Agetoki vanishes from his postin Lion lands as well. FLIGHT OF DRAGONS For their own mysterious reasons, the Elemental Dragons withdraw their influence from the mortal world. Some theo- rize thar the dragons are in mourning over Togashis deat, Others wonder if the dragons do not approve of the new dynasty that has come to power. Others simply wosty that ddack times ate ahead, and the dragons have withdrawn to gird themselves for the coming storm The Dragon of the Void, hhowever finds it cannot completely abandon the mortals it has come to cherish. Ir eaves behind a nemuranai that bears some frction of his power This is the Dragon's Claw Katana, a relic itleaves in the safe-keeping of the Crane Clan. HIDA 0-UsHI's WEDDING ‘Crab Champion Hida Yakamo recognizes the need for an heit 16 the Crab Clan, but has no time to dedicate wo courting & wife: Thus, he commands his younger sister, O-Ushi, 0 marry (O-Ushi is outraged by che command, but will not defy her brother She announces a cournameng inviting all who would seck her hand to compete in hand-to-hand combat. Further, she insists that she be given the sight to participate and, ifshe Wins, secure her independence. Yakamo grudgingly agiees Though O-Ushi and Daidoji Uji deleat most of the combatants, they incapacitate one another in thei final confrontation. The wis thus goes by default to the one contestant wise enough to avoid O-Ushi ducing the great melee — Shinjo Ysamura, son ofthe Unicorn daimyo, SAR 1150, MONTH OF THE HARE (SARLY SPRING) DISAPPEARANCE OF TOTURI 1 ‘Asa gesture of unfty, Emperor Toturi holds Winter Court at ‘Otoxan Uehiso tharal clans may meer as equals. At the end of ‘the court, he intends to hal a second coronation, now thet all of the clans have recovered somewhat from the horrors of the (Clan War, so tha all servants ofthe Empice can reaffirm thelr loyalty 10 the throne. The night before this intended ‘coronation, Emperor Toturi vanishes from his chambers. Two cof his guards, including his personal yojimbo Mikio, are found dead at the scene. Emerald Champion Kakita Toshimoko investigates the scene, and comes toa disturbing conclusion. A large number of unidentified Scorpion samurai were seen entering the palace shortly before the kidnapping, but vanished without « trace. A red silken searf, of the sort frequently worn a8 &ry Eo nm > = z ic z Scorpion mask; is found at the scene of the crime. The Imperial Court is outraged. They demand the Scorpion Clan surrender the culprits or all will be punished for the crime. To Toshimoko, the crime seems uncharacteristic for the Scorpion. Kitsulki Yast investigates at Toshimokos request and finds the evidence accusing the Scorpion to be false. By Imperial Law, unfortunately the mounting testimony cannot be ignored, Yasu warns Toshimoko that sf he does not find a ceulpeit quickly, the clans will fall ro blaming one another, causing the Clan War to begin anew. THE CHANCELLOR “Totutis general Taian, is named Imperial Chancellor inthe Emperor's absence. Takuan (sa man unaceuscomed to che subsleties of politics, thus he turns to Imperial Advisor Kakita Yoshi for ad. Yoshi complies willingly, and quickly becomes the true power behind the Jade Throne, THE HUNT BEGINS Bayushi Kachiko knows that her clan will inevitably be exiled for Toruris kidnapping, and suspects that che rue culprit is an enemy of the Scorpion Clan, She summons two members of ‘Tours Army, the ronin swordsman Ginawa and the ninja Matsu Hirore, and eharges them with discovering the true location of Toturis kidnapper, promising them whatever aid the Scorpion Clan can provide. Matsui Hliroru already suspects the erat, a truth he is loath ro share even with Gnawa. In his years of hunting in the shadows, Hiroru has already encoun tered the minions of Goju Adoraia handful of times. He fears that only they could truly be responsible for this kidnapping. THE SCORPION =xII With a heavy heart, Kakite Toshimoko commands the Scor pion Clan to be exiled to the Burning Sands. He commands the Lion general Matsu Gohei to escort B. Kachiko and her followers beyond the Empires borders All Scorpion children under the age of ewelve are allowed 9 remain in che Empire, in the care of the Crane Clan, (Ostensibly this is done to protect the Empire against Scorpion revenge, but in reality it isa gesture of apology from the Emerald Champion towatd a clan that he knows is innocent. Not all of the Scorpion aceept this punishment. Bayushi Aramoro and a number of other Scorpion remain in the Empire at Kachieos request, casting aside thelr masks so they ‘will not be recognized and hiding disguised as peasants or ronin, Ta those Scorpion who survived the Clan War, such subterfuge comes easily Gazy cRANS Shortly after the Scorpion ate exiled, Kakita Toshimoko aban- ddons the Emerald Armor on the cliffs near Kyuden Do}, along swith a final bale, Most assume he has taken his own life, and Toshimoko does nothing to dissuade the rumor. Donning nondescript armor and a mempo to conceal his face, he becomes a ronin calling himself simply "The Grey Crane In this guise he begins his own quest to discover the truth Jnchind Toruris kidnapping. In Toshimoko$ absence, Shinjo Shirasu takes command of the Emerald Magistrates until sueb a time as a new Emerald ‘Champion can be chosen. YEAR 1150, MONTH OF THE SERPENT (LATE SPRING) THE UNICORN TAKE THE CITY OF LIES Tn the absence of the Scorpion Clan, Unicorn troops march into Ryoko Oweri and claim it. The hidden Scorpion still ‘within the eity are resentful, but would prefer the Unicon control the eity (as the Unicorn have always had a presence there) rather than some outsider. The Scorpion do what they can to subtly help the Unicorn secure their position there ARAMORO'S ALLIANCE ‘With the Scorpion lands now unprotected by samurai, Bayushi Aramoro knows itis only a matter of time before ‘other clans follow the Unicorns exemple fn Ryoko Owari Aramoro journeys to the island of Spice and Silk and secretly meets with Yorit ‘omo, The Som of Storms agrees to march into the Scorpion lands and make s show of claiming them in the name of the Mantis, as all‘unaligned’ lands ave the domain of the Mansi undeeTonsn edicts. When the Scorpion clea theie name and retur, the ‘Mantis will surrender the lands to them sn retuen for their fanuze aid in the courts. Having nothing to lose and everything to gain, Yoritomo agrees to Aramoro’ terms. To seal the bargain, Aramoro fosters his son, Aremert, 0 the ‘Mantis Champion. YEAR 1150, MONTH OF THE DOG (MID-FALL) SHOR! IS STOLEN “The Ancestral Sword of the Lion, which has been in the pos session of the Crane Glan since the Clan War, disappears From Shinden Asthina. Further investigation reveals thatthe crime ‘was committed by Daidoji sen, who was in actuality « Kisu agent masquerading a8 a Daidoyi who perished in che War, ‘Osen: commits seppuku shortly after he returns the sword to Shiro Matsu, His final haiku isan spology r his Crane wife, Sasuke, who committed suicide when she discovered his ‘rue identity bur could not bring herself 0 expose him YEAR 1150, MONTH OF THE TIGER (LATS WINTER) THE KAZAQ'S DREAM In the Shinomen forest, the Qamar’s son, the Kazag, has an ominous dream. He foretels atime when Hitom will drag the Pale Eye from the sky. For wventy-seven days, darkness rales the earth. A beast forged from che heavens and the heart of the Foul, reigns over the mortal world from the shadows. ‘The Celestial Order spirals into rain and, worst ofall, the [greatest heroes of the mortal realm da not seem to notice. ‘The Kazag hurries to the mountains ofthe Dragon Clan to warn Hitomi, but she does not seem concerned. The Kaza4 claims thar, should the Naga fear this future wall come 0 pass, they will stop her. Hitomi Koleujin incapacitaes the Kazaq and uses his coreupt powers ro brainwash the Nags, granting. him kikage zum tattoos and severing him from the Naga’ akashic group mind in the process. The young Naga becomes loyal servant ofthe Dragon, under Hitorn Kokajias control, YEAR 1131, MONTH OF THE HARE (SARLY-SPRING) RAGA ABANDON THE CRAB ‘At their Qamars command, the Naga abruptly depart eon Shiro Hiruma and march north, The Crab ate surprised at the sudden departure oftheir allies but, given the silence of the Shadowlands in recent months, do little to impede them. KUNI You) ATTACKS HIRUMA CASTLE Under Kuni Yor leadership, the Shadowlands Horde attacks Hiruma Castle, For the time being, Hida Yakamo forces repel Yori assaults wath ile dficuley, even without the Nage’ aid Yakemo does not call for veinforcements, wary that this isa rere int 10 weaken the Kaiu Walls defense. ARUMA UTLEASHED While exploring the ruins of an ancient Lion castle, Kitsu ‘Okura encounters the bound spiit of the Oni Lord, Akuma, ‘Akuma offers Okura great power if itis released, but Okura refuses. Regardless, Okura finds himself srangely unwilling to report what he had discovered to his fellow Lion. SAR 1131, MONTH OF THE DRAGON (AID-SPRING) SHINTO TASHIMA VISITS THE DRAGON LANDS Disturbed by the rumors of the Togashi slaughter in che Dragon provinces, Shinjo Shitasw dispatches his cousin ‘Tashima to investigate the cruth of the matter. Shortly after arriving in the Dragon lands, Tashima encounters Hitomi Kokujin. Days later, Tashima sends a message back to Shirast stating that he has seen “The Lady's Truth” and will be remaining in the Dragon provinces, learning the path of the Iikage aumi mystics. THE NEW JADE CHAMPION ‘While exploring the achiverof Orosan Uc, Imperial sxibes discover the existence of the longedefunct office of Jade Champion, Chancellor Takuan decides to renew the tile a2 demonstration ot hi effective leadership. Many shugenja Journey to Otosan Uchi to compere in the tournament, Inelding Ktst Okara ofthe Lion Clan Unfortunately che pesmi a ccred overwhelms Okura Suceumbing tothe whispered temptations of kansen, Okura seikes a bargain with the Oni Lord, Akuma. With Akuma power, Okurs easly wins the rounnament and assumes the tole of Jade Champion. Akuma then begins a slow campaign fof driving the new Jade Champion ever deeper into ‘omuprion nd madness YEAR 1131, MONTH OF THE GOAT (MUD-SUMMER) KUZ0'S DISCOVERY After studying Novikaau's Revings ac length, Grand Master ‘Naka Kuro begins to sense a troubling disturbance in the elements. Suspecting that the chaotic times Notikazs foresaw are swiftly approaching, he reinforces the cites of protection fon Kyuden Isawa. Shortly after be does so, Kurs most rusted servant undergoes a terrifying change. His facial features vanish, leaving an eggshell-smooth surface, and then the servant vanishes as well. Kuzo is deeply disturbed, as not even his great magical knowledge can explain what has occusted. yorr's Szcono ASSAULT ‘Kuni Yori again attacks Hiruma Castle, and again the Crab utterly crush his forces. At this point, the defenders of Hiruma Castle become fairy confident that they can defend the castle even from the assembled Shadowlands Horde. Yor! «escapes unharmed: satisfied withthe result. As his troops are mere undead minions, he has lost nothing, but the overconft dence of the Crab will be their undoing. THE CRANE ATTACK THE MANTIS The Mantis begin to occupy the abandoned Scorpion lands Dut face fierce resistance from the Crane. Daidoji Uji does nat fully trust Yoritomo’s motives, and suspects that once the Scor pion lands are secure he might rum on the Crane. Yoritomo Jmows that rhe Crane forces are not large enough to sustain «prolonged artack or hold the Scorpion provinces without ‘wealeening the defense of thetr own orders, so he withdraws into Beiden Pass to fight a defensive batele and wait, After many long weeks, Uji bitterly withdraws his forces. SIEGE OF SLEE7ING MOUNTAIN ‘The Naga armies invade Dragon Clan lands. The Naga fight back only when engaged, but are brutal and methodical in their passage through the mountains. The Dragon likewise tenaciously defend their homes, initiating a prolonged ‘campaign of brutal mountain warfare, ht THE AGASHA LEAVE THE DRAGON With Hitomts activities becoming increasingly random and Violent, large number of members ofthe Agasha family leave the Dragon Clam in disgust. They ind a weleome home within the Phoenix Clan. Shiba Tsukune even permits these Agosha to resin cher family name eather than commanding them © swear fealty tothe Asako or Isa, “The daimyo of the Agasha family, Agasha Tamori, refuses to join his brethren. He maintains his loyaly to Hitomi, refusing to abandon her even in her madness. | YEAR 1131, MONTH OF THE ‘| Ox CHUD-WINTER) |'| sepucTION oF THE LION CLAN Kitsu Okura falls deeper into madness, seduced by the Oni ) Lord Aleumas power. He begins seeking out other Lion who _ are dissatisfied with Tsanuris rule oftheir clan and secretly © =} inivating them as followers of Akuma, Most notable is Matsu e “| Daoquan, brother of Matsu Goemon, one of Toru’ most celebrated allies. Peed pur URC Lt WwaAG AwAvatn me + | YERR 1131, MONTH OF THE eee oe MONKEY (LATS WINTER) TSUME REBORN ‘On the night of a lunar eclipse, Kuni Yori enacts perverse magical ritual. The undead general Moto Tsume, slain during the fighting on the Day of Thunder, is restored to unlife via the povver of Eu Leng’ skull, He immediately swears his loyalty wo Yor. At his command, legions of undead Moto issue forth from Jigoku and bolser Yorts armies HIRUMA CASTLE PREPA: After months of silence, Yakamo suspects that Yori will soon assault Hiruma Castle again, He sends scouts to Kyuden Hida ro summon reinforcements and supplies. |) None ofthe scouts reach their destination alive. AR 1152, MONTH OF THE HARES (SARLY SPRING) SIEGE OF HIRUMA CASTLE Just asthe winter snows melt, Moto Tsume and Kuni Yor! leed 4 beutal assault against Shiro Hiruma. Legions of undead, gres, and bakemono surround the fortress, The Crab are not prepasted for this assault, yet somehow, through 3 combination of resourcefulness, determination, luc and the aid of the ‘Thin Whisker Nezumi, they survive the onslaught Hida Yakame kenows thatthe Crab will noe survive for long, ifhissister does not learn what is happening. Praying that the Jade Hand will offer him the protection he needs to survive the joueney, he ventutes through che Nezumi tunnels and begins a harried journey back 10 Kyuden Hida Unfortunately, Yori senses the purity ofthe Jade Fland and dispatches Moto Tsume to apprehend Yakamo. THE ORACLE RETURNS Searching for any clues as to the whereabouts of Toruri GGinawa and Matsu Hitors find a most unexpected ally. Isa Kaede, once the Master of the Void, has rerurmed to Rokugan as the Oraele of the Void. Kaede instructs them t0 find *a Dragon-man, whose face has nor yet vanished. STRANGE HAPPENINGS IM LION LANDS ‘After months of investigating steange disappearances in Lion territories, Shinjo Shirasus magistrates confront a band of ‘Kitsu shugenja and samucai. All of the Lion are consumed by ‘extremely advanced Shadowlands Taint. The group fights to the death. The magistrates artempe to investigate further, but Jade Champion Kitsu Okura intervenes, claiming he will tke ‘command ofthe investigation. Shirasuis suspicious of Okura true motives, but knows better than to question the acthority of the Jade Champion. His magistrates withdraw from Lion WHAT'S New In_HIDDENn EMPEROR NEW ANCESTORS HIDA KISADA Been in Rokugan sland blessed with heroes, Hids Kisodes ‘name revered by many, anal known toa. Kisida, commonly ‘known as The Great Bea” for is huge stature and ferocity in battle, distinguished hirmsel a « cunning commander and relentless warrior in over 40 years as Champion of the Crab ‘The Crab Clan prospered under Kisada’ leadership; he refused tallow che polities ofthe Empice to distract from the Crabs eruc dry protecting However, Kisada fl that only unified Empire with strong leadership could ever truly deleat the Shadowlands. When Heat the 39th proved co bea weal Emperor, ineapable of uellng dhe nascent Clan War, Kisda decided that the pro- tection of the Empire demanded drastic measures. He had his then advisor, Kuni Yor, strike « pact on bis behalf with the Shadowlands, ro jointly invade Orosan Uchi. Kisada plan was simple and pragmatic: with the aid ofthe creatures ofthe Shadowlands, he would quickly conguer the capital then call tapon che combined might of the Great Clans to crush the thveat forever. Kisada$ plan was strategically sound, but Des- tiny would intervene The Crab emily swept ehrough the lands ofthe Crane, and routed the Lion defenders of Otosan Uchi in short orderKisada personally led the assault upon the palace, and confronted the Emperor By that point, Fu Leng possession of Hantel was complete, and the Dark God fought the Greet Beatin personal comet. Although Kisadis prowess in battle vias legendary, he was notte equal of Fu Leng Their conflict ended when Fa Leng impaled Kisada on the Ancestal Sood of the Haste. Kisadas immense fortitude allowed him to survive the terble wound Fa Leng inflicted upon his, and Kiss son, “akamo, dragged him to safety. Although Kida was crippled by his injuries and had to rurn over active leadership of the Crab to Yaa he continued to serve asa military advisor to the Crab and the Empire, where he played a major role inthe planning and logistic preparations for the second Day of ‘Thunder. When he finally died in the year 1130, Kisada was named Fortune of Pessstence by Emperor Tour. sada has taken a very ative role in guking his descendans since his death WILL OF THE BEAR You possess a portion of Hida Kisadals drive to succeed, no matter how great che challenge, Ancestor: Hida Kisada Clan: Crab Benefit: 1f you fall 9 Skill Check for a task but try again, the DC penalty for repeated arcemprs is waived, Repeat attempts still consume the normal smoutnt of time and materials. ing effort would be helpful (GM's decision, but typically any- New ITEMS RITSURI KAAGI'S TOURNAL Kitsuki Kaagi was a Kitsuki Magistrate active in the years preceding the Scorpion Clan Cou who specialized in purse ing investigations with bizarre, unusual, or supernatural overtones, Like all magistrates of his family, Kaagitegulaely recorded his investigations, thoughts, and expesiences ina collection of serolls, vllectively known asa journal. Many of his earlier, more mundane chronicles ae safely stored within Kyuden Kitsuki, but the logs of is fina, agi investigations into the Lying Darkness bear both a trace of his inqutsitive nature and the Fate that eventually befell him. ‘When Kaag realized that he was lowly being consumed by the Lying Darkness, be sent his Journal via messenger to yuden Kitsuki, hoping thar his fellow Dragons could pur the insights he had gleaned to use against it, However, the Journal was aso touched by the Davkness even as readers perused its contents, learning of its nature and identity, the Darkness sained a foothold into the reader's mind. Even though the Kitsuki were very methodical, and took careful precautions while reading the Journal, they could find no way to prevent the Darkness from consuming those who read the Jounal Ultimately, they sealed the Jouenal sway within a vault in Kyuden Kitsuki where it was interzed for years. ‘As Hitomi began examining Shosuro, in the ceystsl chamber deep within Ryuilen Togashi, agents ofthe Darkness stole the Journal from Kyuden Kirst, substinuting blank dluplicae in its stead. By the time the Kisuki were aware that the Journal was in circulation, mostly through rumors of {incidents similar those Kangt encountered a generation ago, itvvas far oo late to eack the Journal down, Kitsuki Kaagi’s Jounal consists of a collection of scrolls, sealed within a stuedy but mundane scroll ease. In addition to Kaagits keen observations and deductions contained in the journal entries, reading che Journal provides the reader with intuitive, instinctive insights into the nature, powers, and threats of the Lying Darkness, However, this knowledge comes ata terrible price; the Lying Darkness gains similar insights into the character reading the Journal, insights tis eager to use against him, Kitsuki Kags Journal is divided into 4 chapters, each cov- xing one of Kaagis final investigations, inside a sealed box. ‘Written on the ftont of the bax in shaky calligraphy is the phrase “do not read this” Alchough the Journal appears mun dane itis pat of the Lying Darkness, and merely possessing it will raw the attention of the Darkness and its minions (or the Shadow Dragon and its minions after the Darkness is defeated), A character who reads a chapter of the Journal immedi- ately gains single Shadow Point, but permanently gins +1 Insight bonus into any Knowledge (Lying Dazk- ness), Knowledge (Ninja), or similar Skill or Ability check relating to the Lying Darkness (not including ‘Attack and Damage rolls) This bonus increases by a fur ther +1 for each additional chapter the character reads, 10 a maximum of +4. However, the amount of Shadow Poines gained for each successive chapter increases, 25 fallows and Chapter: +3 Poims ‘nd Chapter: <5 Points 4th Chapter Rank The Journal does not dieectly compel readers to continue, bur the character will not be aware of the Shadow Points gained until ouside forces, such as min fons ofthe Darkness tempting him, draw attention t his aifiction. Note for campaigns occurring after the Darkness is defeated: a character may make a Knowledge (Lying. Darkness) check at DC 20 (or Knowledge (Ninja) check. at DC 30) t0 recognize the Jounal and the danger it represents. A character who reads « chaprer of the Journal immediately gains a single Shadow Point, but perma rently gains a Free Raise for any Lore: Lying Darkness, Lore: Ninja, or similar Skill, Ring, or Trait check relating wr ed A 3 fey 3int 2 Lying Darkness (not including Attackand Damage rolls), This bonus increases by a further Raise for each additional chapter the character reads, to a maximum of four. However, the amount of Shadow Points gained for cach successive chapter increases, as follows: 2nd Chapter: +4 Point ard Chapter: +2 Points 4th Chapter 13 Points The Journal does not directly compel readers to con tinue, but the character will noe be aware ofthe Shadow Points gained until outside forces, sch 25 minions of the Darkness tempting him, draw attention to his afliction Note for campaigns occurring after the Darkness is defeated: a character may make a Lore: Lying Darkness check at TN 20 (or Lore: Ninja check at TN 30) 10 recognize the Journal and the danger it represents N=wW KIHO In the years immediately succeeding the second Day of ‘Thunder, Rokugan experienced a spiritual enlightenment Monks, shugenja, and other mystes, galvanized by the victory ‘of mortal men over Fu Leng, learned co harness their chi in Innovative ways. This resulted in the development of several new kiho, HEART OF SUITENGU One of the more ubiquitous discoveries of the new age stemmed from a practical need: in order to be able to continually research new kiho, monks needed a way to rapidly replenish theie reserves of chi The Heart of Suitengu kiho was developed ro allow monks to recuperate quickly alter exerting themselves HEART OF SUITEIGU (Ino FEAT) s:t level of monk, inkyo, or shugenja, Void Benefit: Once per day, by taking 1 hour to meditate and spending.a Void Point, you may select one Class Feature that ‘has a limited number of uses per day (other than Spells and Spell Uso); our number of uses refreshes as though you had spent complete day of rest. HEART OF SUITENGU (WATER KIHOD ‘Type: Aiki Mastery: 3 ‘The Heart of Sultengu ktho has two effectsThe fits is chat, swhile this kiho is acrive, the user only needs to spend 5 min tues meditaring to switch from one Aiki or Karmic ktho to another, and does not need to spend a Void point to do so. The second is tha, once per day, by spending an hour in medics ‘ion, the monk gains an additional Void Poin that may only be cused to pay the cost of activating a kiho. SOUL OF THE RAGING STORM ‘After Totutis disappearance, many conflicts erupted across the Empire, The lho that eventually would become known as Soul ofthe Raging Storm evolved from basic shugenja wards and dhe martial disciplines practiced by many monks. Flee the Darkness allows its users inal attempt to ward off incoming, attacks by focusing their chi intoa momentary defense. SOUL OF THE RAGING STORM GQuHO FEAT) Prerequisites: Dodge, Expertise, Base Attack Bonus +4 Benefit: Whenever a physial attack or spell that requires a torhit oll targets you and you are aware of it,you may spend a oid Point to immediately receives +4 bonus to your AC for the duration of the atack. You may do this even if you are flarfooted or otherwise denied your Dex bonus 10 your AC, ‘but must declare your intent 1 use this kino before the tack dice are rolled. SOUL OF THE RAGING STORM CAIR KIHOD ‘Type: Zanshin Mastery: 4 A monk who has mastered Soul of the Raging Storm is always prepared to defend himself. Whenever you are attacked, before the dice are rolled but after the attacker has declared any raises, you may spend a Void Point to increase your TN tobe hit by 10.This Kibo can also be used against any. spell which is aimed or targeted, increasing the'TN ofthe spell by 10 New PATHS SCHOOLS, And T=CHTUQUES THE ASAHINA ARCHERS Bven though the Crane Clan prefers to resolve disputes in the courts or through laijutsu Duels, hey sometimes need to settle conflicts through force of arms. While at war, the Clan relies heavily upon the guertillatacties of the Daidoji 0 ‘weaken opposing armies. However, once the skirmishing is finished and the battle joined, the Crane often find them- selves aca serious disadvantage against the veteran units ofthe Crab or che legendary leadership ofthe Lion. ‘Long before the Asahina Battle School was founded (see ‘Way ofthe Shugenja, the Asahina family needed 0 find away for those who either lacked the capability to commane with the kami or the pacifist mentality seguired co study at its shugenja school 1o erve the Clan. Likewise, the Daidoji ree- ognized that they needed a force to fil the niche between the highly unorthodox Daidoji Harriers and cheir more conven- tional forces. The development of formal archer units was natural outgrowth of the sensibilities of both families; eventhe martially inclined Asahina had no particular desire to be physically close ro the victims of their violence, while the Daidoji had an affinity for any tool chat could weaken a foe ‘before he could realise. Prior to the War Against the Darkness, the Asahina and Daidoji jointly maintained a school for their archers, who trained in a smal kyuden near the border of the Asahina and Daidoji estates. Although Asahina Archers served in some capacity during most ofthe wars involving the Crane, thelr role was often understated. Ironically, the first time the ‘Asahina Archers played 2 pivotal role in a war was against other members of the Crane Clan, The Asahina Archers were mobilized during the War, ini tilly to weinforce the Daidoji garrisons defending the major Crane holdings. When the Lying Darkness manipulated Daidoji Uji into attacking Shiro no Yojin, then held by the Lion Clan, he enlisted the majority of the Archers to assist in his siege ofthe castle. Uji succeeded in capturing Shiro no Yojin, only to find that Doji Kuwanan, Champion of the Crane, had disavowed all knowledge of Uj actions, and had declared war upon Ujiand his followers. Under pressure from both Lion and Crane, Uj resorted to extreme measures to pre- serve his command, including unleashing the Daidoji Harsi- cers and Asahina Archers agains his kin during several brutal ‘engagements Eventually, Kuwanan and Uji discovered that the Crane Civil War had been instigated by the Darkness and ceased. their conflict. By that time, many casualties had been inflicted on both sides, crippling the Crane forces, The Asehina Archers had acquitted themselves amply, but were horrified bby the amount of damage they inflicted upon their oven Clan. Inthe years since the War Against the Darkness, the Archers swore to never again take arms against another Crane, an oath that led them into conflict with Doji Kuzohito during the War Against che Spirits. Pressed severely by Hantei XVIS forces, Kurohito ordered the Archers to cake the field against Hantei armies, an onder that the Archers refused to follow, leading to the seppules of their senior sensels and the disgrace of the School. Since ‘Towuris vietory over the forces of the Steel Chrysanthemum, the Archers have once again been relegated to support oles in the Crane armies, where they still serve diligently, waiting for an opportunity to show thar they can serve the Crane as well asany bushi ASAHINA ARCHER (PRESTIGE CLASS) Hit Die: ds Requirements: To qualify to become an Asahina Archer, a character must fulfil the following criteriar Base Attack Bonus: 8. Hide: § ranks. ‘Move Silently: 8 ranks. ‘Spot: 6 cals. Feats: Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Shot on the Run, ‘Weapon Focus: Yuri TABLE 11: THE ASAHINA ARCHER Special: The character must swear an oath never to take up arms against the Crane Clan. Class Skills: the Asahina Archer’ clas skills (and key abil- ities for each skill) ae Balance (Dex), Climbing (Stx), Hide (Dex), Jumping (Ser), Move Silently (Dex), Search (Lat), Spot (Wis) and Tumble (Des) Skill Points per Level: 4+ Int modifies CLAss FEATURES: All ofthe following are class features ofthe Asshing Archer Prestige Class Weapon & Armor Proficiency: Asshina Archers gain no additional weapon or armor proficiencies for joining this Prestige Class. Armor check penalties for armor heavier than Jeather apply othe sls Balance Climb, Escape Arist, Hide, Jump, Move Silenil, Pek Locks, and Tumble Note thatthe special class abilities ofthe Asahina Archer (ether than the Bonus Feats) can only be performed with a em Ranged Sneak Attack: Asahina Archers are taught to strike from hiding and maximize ther effectiveness eginst rouch larger, less mobile forees, Beginning at 2nd level, the archer gains a damage bonus on all ranged attacks made from hiding. This ability functions exactly as the Rogue class special ability ofthe same name, except that itmay only apply to ranged atcks with a Yumi and is limited co range of 60 feet rather than 30 feet This bonus damage increases ror 146 to2déat 4th level. Bonus Feat: ac tst end th level, the Archer gains an additional Feat, which must be chosen from che folowing ist Dodge, Endurence, Improved Critical (Yur only), Improved Initiative, Run Swifter Arrow: Asahina Archers ate masters of atuition, specializing in suppressing the enemy’ bili ta fight bale “The Archerreceives an exta attack with his Yur atthe end of each round (aris highest artack bom), that can only be used upon an enemy who attempted to attack ehe Archer with a throwing or missile weapon during the round No Regrets: The Asahins Archers are changed with redueing the numberof foes the Crane armies must face upon the battlefield, and are aught o spare no te reflecting once theirarrowes are loosed and their targets deaths are assured. At sth level an Aschina Archer gains the Great Cleave Fe, only usable a range with their Yumi rather dha in melee comb, ‘without needing 10 meet dhe other prerequisites THE ASAHINA ARCHERS (=u PATH) ‘Technique Rank: 3 Path of Entry: Daidoji Yojimbo or Daidoji Harcier 2 Path of Egress: Re-enter the same school at Rank 3 Special: must rake « 2-pt Obligation (never take up arms against any member ofthe Crane Clan) Class Level Base Attack Bonus Fort Save ——Ref'Save_—Will Save—_Special Ist 0 2 2 40 Bonuis Feat 2nd 1 8 3 +0 Range Sneak Attack +106 3rd) 42 a 3 ‘Swifter Arrow ath 3 4 44 4 Ranged Sneak Attack +246, Bonus Feat sth 3 + 44 4 No Regretssl m7 it ? E R fe) KR et Fld t ed Pier Unt Technique: No Regt: The Asahina Archers are rained to suppress the innate pacifism of their Family to focus on the lives they save through the lives they take. When firing 2 ‘Yumi, ifthe Archer kills an opponent with an attack, he may immediately make an additional atack a different target, to ‘maximum of double his normal atacks per tur. RECLAIMING THE LAND This adventure hook works best ifat least one member of the .:0up is aligned 10 the Crab Clan or is personally allied with the Crab, orifat least one member ofthe group isa courtier or truer who deals in weapons, jade, oF food. ADVENTURE HOOK CHALLENG With the departure of the Naga from Shiro Hiruma, the Crab forces remaining in the castle badly need re-supply Although the Neziumi have agreed to transport food and weapons to their old allies, the Ratlings do not have a surplus oftheir own to donate. Supplies need to be transported from the Crab estates to the Nezumi, so the later can sneak them past the shadowlands lines to Shiro Hiruma, Focus The vast majority of the Crabs resources have already been committed tothe effort to retake Shiro Hiruma, so they are aggressively lobbying the other Great Clans for aid, They are calling in old debts and offering future services for any form of substantial aid. This represents a wonderful opportunity 10 ie in the good graces of the Hida sta In addition to being shost on supplies, the Crab ate desper- ately short on soldiers experienced in navigating the Shadow- lands, The convoys delivering supplies to the Nezumi need 19 be protected. Likewise, additional bushi to accompany the ‘Neauimi during the final, most dangerous stage of ransfer sneaking past the Shadowlands forces to the exste itself — are sorely needed, As the Crab appreciate action as mulch as gesture, any samurai who assist in this critical rask ean expect gratitude from the Crab. HITOMI'S WRATH This adventure hook works best if ene or more members of the group are members of the Dragon Clan or the Brotherhood of Shinsei ot are courtiers with a history of dealing with the laws of the Empire ADVENTURE HOOK CHALLENGE ‘After assuming the manele of Dragon Champion, Hiromi has begun a systematic purge, permitting only those who swear loyalty to her to remain in the Dragon Clan. Although all the families of the Clan have been affected by her vehemence, the “Togashi are particularly hard-hic They have been offered three choices: sweat fealty to Hitoms, forsake their past, or be slain, Many members of the Dragon Clan and most of the Togashi family have begun to search for ways to escape the Clan and Hitomi ire Focus For much ofthe Clan the situation is nocas simple as saying” or “leaving” Oaths of fealty bind them, and even though lcomi is making particularly strident demands, chey are stil within her mandate as Champion. However, i is obviows to ‘many within the Clan that Hiromi is unstable, particularly given her treatment of the Togashi. Anybody who can provide the reluctant with an honorable way to distance themselves from Hitomt’s leadership, or who can assist the Togashi refugees who are fleeing the Clan, will receive the personal _gratinude of those they a STRIKE Those who get involved in the situation will be subject to crit- {cis fom all sides. Although i is dificult t ignore the sul fering of the Dragon Glan, assisting those leaving the Clan is alse technicilly assisting desercets. Additionally, chere ave ‘many in the Dragon, particularly among the Mirumoto andthe newly-fledged Hitomi family, who see the situation as @ matter of honor and are willing to back up thelr convictions with violence. Bven if character wishes to remain neutral in the inter-Clan conflict the Dragon could certainly use the assistance ofa facilicator, a difficult path to balance but one that could spate a great deal of bloodshed. ‘Note: This hook can easily be adapted to later in the War Aguinst che Darkness, as the Agasha family flees to the Phoenix. SAVING THE TAO Thais adventure hook works bestia least one member ofthe group is a member, indebted to, or controlled by the Kolt, ot ‘fat least one member ofthe group is linked to or Tainted by the Lying Darkness. ADVENTURE HOO! CHALLENGE ‘The Kolat have access to hidden information that few other organizations possess. They are one of the first groups to reilize that che Lying Darkness is active in the Empise, and realize the danger ir poses: One of the Darkness’ first targets is likely tobe the New Tuo, che transcription ofthe conversation between Toturi and the Hooded Ronin, transcribed by Tsawa (Osugi Ifthe Darkness can consume that, a great deal of Shin: seis wisdom shall be lost 1o the Empire. Focus Saving the Tao will nor be easy; even before the Kola began to act the Darkness quietly consumed many of the copies af the New Tap across the Empire. The last copy tobe consumed will be the True, original Tao, preserved within the Palace of (Otosan Uchi, protected by the Imperial Guard, However, samurai offer litle proceetion against the Lying Darkness, and the Tao must be saved, STRIKE “Tho Kolat ate sailing to reveal themselves in ord to save the Tao — their exposure would cost the organization greatly, and the Empire would react with hostility rather than gaimde. Additionally, the disappeasance of the Tao would cause uproar within the Empire, and prematurely alert the Darkness to the fcr chat it has an enesiy. Saving the Tao will require not ony its theft fom the capital, but is replacement with a newly written copy. Even wit the assistance of Isa sug, who asthe original writer isthe only person remaining ‘who could write anew copy, rescuing the new To wil require sneaking into and out of the Palace, a task that promises @ shameful desth for those who are caprured, THE TEST OF THE JADE CHAMPION This adventure hook works best if the group contains a least fone shugenja and/or one courtier of Clan or family known for its shugenia ADVENTURE HOOK CHALLENG With the disappearance of Toruti and the increasing unrest in Rokugan, the Imperial Court has decided 0 relnstitute the office of Jade Champion, to tally the Empire and increase support for their provisional government. This will require & ‘great deal of logistic and planning work, as all the Clans must be notified and arrangements made for the tournament and Focus ‘The office of Jade Champion was originally dissolved at the request of the Phoenix Clan, who felt thae it infringed upon their mandate asthe guardians of magie within the Empire, With the Phoenix stil severely weakened duc to the Clan War they are unable to fill this niche, Nonetheless the return of a Jade Champion represents a very public refutation of the Phoenix, and the court does not wish to alienate Great Cl while the Emperor is missing STRIKE Players can be involved in this hook from several vantages. A _great deal of negotiation and politicking will be occurring in and around the tournament, to salve egos and to select entrants. Likewise, some might wish t participate inthe tour ‘nament itself — winning would bring tremendous prestige, Glory, and Status to the winter and his Clan. After the tou nnament, the selection of Jade Magistrates and other promi ‘nent support positions must also be made all of chese repre- sent opportunities to och earn and expend favors. MAGISTERIAL PRIVILEGE ‘This adventure hook works best if one ox more members of the parry are magistrates. ADVENTURE HOOK CHALLENGE With the disappearance of the former Emerald Champion, ‘Kakita Toshimoko, the Emerald Magistrates have been left leaderless and unfocused. The senior Magistrate, Shinjo Shirasu, as been elevated to the eole of acting head ofthe organization, but this appointment has left considerable ill between the Clans, who resent tha the Unicorn have taken » dominant role in interpeeting and enforcing the lws of the Empire. Focus ‘Any peacekeeping or facilitating effort on de part ofthe PCs will be complicated by the fact chat many conflicts are beginning between various factions of the Empire: the Dragon and the Brotherhood of Shinse are at odds and the Crane haveattacked the Lion at Shito Yojn, While Toskimoko wielded a certain amount of authority because he made « poine of distancing himself from promoting Crane interest, Shira i unproven ia his role and the Clans ate becoming ‘more distrust of the Emerald Magistrates asa eslTh nr ae puede Ly STRIKE ‘Complicating mateers further, the Lying Derleness i atempe Ing t0 actively promote war and distrust between the Clans, weakening the Empire, Ifthe players become successful at reducing or quelling inter-Clan warfare, they are likely to draw the attention of the Darkness, which will ry to subvert or destroy them, IMPORTANT Necs KITSY OKURA, SADE CHAMPION Kitsu Okura knows, deep in his soul, that what he has done i rote than mezely dishonorable, its simply weong. For him, there shall be no hope, no redemption, and ultimately no honor in his futute. His crime — suamoning, entreating, and bargaining with the legendary Oni Overlord Akuma lange that there is no hope of concealing it, or evading its con: sequences, Someday soon, Kitsu Okura soul will be forfeited to Akuma, and the Empire will suffer for Okura’ crimes (Okura is deeply sorry for whit he has done, and wishes he never struck his pact with Alcuma However, F Okura was given the opportunity to make his choice agtin, he would do exactly the same thing. The Empire is in turmoil with the disippearance of Emperor Tocuri, and the Lion Clan is beser by challenges from without ond within, ‘Oleure fears char not even the might of the Lion can prevail against the chaos engulfing the Empire, not without some backing from the Imperial Court, an organization th barely able to keep the Empire running, let slone assist i vidual Clans, For the Lion to survive, they need to wield more authority than they currently do; having the Jade Champion hal for the Lion will give them far more political clout with, which to negotiate While the samurai of the Lion are renowned for their prowess-ar-arms, their shugenja, while skilled, are no match for those of the Phoenix or Dragon. The few Lion shugenia, such as Kitsa daimyo Kisu Toju, who possessed the skill ne essary towin the Test of the Jade Champion, simply had other dies to fulfil for the Clan. Okura was chosen co represent the Lion not based upon the hope that he would prevail, but merely so that he could pur up a decent showing. Nobody, least ofall his kin, expected him to win, The low expectations of his peers was no great shock to Okura, who, while limited in hie skills as a shugensa, possessed a good-deal of self awareness Throughout his youth And his studies, he had to grapple with the knowledge hat ‘even thouigh he desperately wanted to achieve something for his Clan his limited ability to call the kama forever consigned him to mediocrity, Even Kitsu Motso, who did not even possess the ability co speak with the ancestors, had achieved note fame within the Kitsu family, Olura, for many years, lacked both the ability and the opportunity to show that his heart was as fierce as any Lion’ ‘While exploring an abandoned castle at the edge of Lion lands, he discovered the trapped essence of the Oni Lord, ‘Akuma, Okura could have gained great prestige for reporting the creature's presence, or even greater prestige for destroying sthimself Instead, he did nothing, Once he discovered that he would represent the Lion atthe ‘est, Okura threw himself into preparations. He studied every spell, practiced every rieual, pored aver every scroll in the su libraries, but knew that chis was insufficient, Oku spent hours in the libraries looking up obscute and forgot conds, eying to find some way to bring victory to the Lion. As time elapsed and success eluded him, Okura began to hear the whispets ofthe Oni Lord in the back of his ming. ean help you i said, “Together we can win” ‘Okura was reluctant at first, but Akuma promised that he did not wane 10 take Okuras name for himself —as oni were wont to do, Eventually the two came to an agreement. Akuma rno Oni was surprisingly willing co enter into a pact with (Okcura. The Oni offered Okura the knoveedge and power the laeter needed to win the Jade Championship, in exchange for (Olena binding himself to Akuma, initiating others within the Kits i the secrets of maho and the Shadowlands, and swear ing upon his honor as a Lion not to take his own life, Okura agreed, and the deal was struck, ‘With Akuma’ backing, Okura stunned all observers atthe Test of the Jade Championship, besting luchi Karasu in the final round. Since then, he has organized the Jade Magistrates uunifying the vatious Clans of the Empire in thei opposition to Jigoku, He has als fulfilled is end of the bargain — the Kits Tombs ate now the home of vile rituals and devotions to Fu Leng, helping the Lion to hold its own against the Crane and other foes, Okura knows that ths is an illusion, and that soon Eu Leng will claim all of Olowas followers, much like ‘Altuma will claim the Jade Champion. He just hopes that he and the rest of his family can hang on long enough forthe rest of the Lion and the Empire co rally.KITSU OKURA, TADS CHARPION Male Human Lion Shuto: CRio Medium-size humanoid; HD 1046430 (70hp); Init +4; Spd 30 ft; AC 16(11 roueh, 15 flarfooted) tack +10 melee (idée4, +3 wakizashi) §Q Class Skill — Knowledge (Ancestors) (Family Bonus), Sense Kami AL LE; Honor: 1.0; Glory: 4.0 Status: 8.0; SV Fort +6, Ref +4, ‘Will +16, Str 14, Dex 13, Con 16, Int 14, Wis 16, Cha 14; Taint 05; Height 5 fin ‘Sls ad Fels Spoak Language (Rokugani, High Roleugeni, Kami) Bluff +6, Concentration +11, Knowledge (etiquette) +8, Knowledge (nobility and royalty) +8, Knowledge (ancestors) +10, Knovledge (Lion Clan) +10, Knowledge (law) +10, Knowledge (imaho) +10, Knowledge Shintao) +10, Profession (scribe) +10, Sery 49, Search +7, Sense Motive +7, Spelleraft +40, Spot +7, Tea Ceremony +7, Combat Casting, Iron Will, isu Blood, Versatile (Blufl, Seateh, Sense Metive, Spot), Void Use Spells Known (6/7/7/6/5/3), Base DC 424spell level; Ele- zmental Focus — Water; Kitsu School: 0-Devect Magic, Purify Food and Drink, Moment of Peace, Summon Water, Com ‘mune with Elements, Sammon, Read Magic, Mending, Mage Hand, Know Direction; tst-Remove Fear, Castle of Watet, Detect Taint, Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Magic Weapon; and-Lesser Restoration, Locate Object, Remove Paralysis, Balls Strength, Hold person; Srd-Remove Curse, Remove Disease, Invisibility, Magie Circle Against Tain 4th-Neutral- ize Poison, Restoration, Discern Lies, Sth-Summon Navares Ally ¥,Summon Monster W Possessions of Note: +5 Bracers of Armor +3 wikizashi, Ring of -reedom of Movement KITS OkURA, JADE CHAMPION Earth: + Willpower: 5 Water: § Fire: 3 Air:3 Void: « School/Rank: Kitsu Shugenja4 Honor 10 appears tobe 30) Glory: 40 Status: 50 Taine 05 Advantages: Half-Blood Kitsu Ancestsy, Social Postion (ade Champion) Disadvantages: Dark Fate, Dark Secret (Pact with Akuma 0 Oni) Spells: Sense, Commune, Summon, Jade Strike, Hands of ‘Chi, Minor Binding, Grounding Energy, Evil Ward, Wings of Fire, Path to Inner Peace Fires From Within, By the Light of Lord Moon, Matsu’ Fury, Summon Oni. Additionally, asthe Jade Champion, Okura can requisition any non-Clan secret spell, given advance notice and need Skills: Calligraphy 6, Etiquette 4, Heraldry s, History Ancestors 5, History: Lion Clan 5, Investigation 5, Kenjutsu4, Lore: Maho 6, Lore: Shugenja: 4 Meditation 5, Sincerity 4, Shintao 3, Tea Getemony 4 TARUAN, IMPERIAL REGENT Takuan isa samurai who has successfully navigated many ‘vials in his fe. He has fought battles led eroops, even walked away froma dishonorable master and lived the life of onin. He has seen diffculr times, and has survived and even flour. ished where others would have fallen. However, he fears that his current duties are beyond even his capabilites, ‘Asa young Crane Fresh from his gempulkku, Takuan was assigned guard duty on a Daidoji caravan. When Takuan later discovered his lord Daidoji Kichibet was using the caravan as cover for an opium smugglingcartel, he soughes more honor able lord within the Crane to whom he could report is find ings. Kichibei manufactured false evidence and testimony suggesting that Takuan had embezzled from the caravan, rut ing the young bush's reputation. Officially, Takuan was expelled from the Daido for his dishonorable behavior. Taleuan knows the truth — he lft af his oven choice Even though life as a ronin was difficult, he enjoyed the freedom it provided. He discovered a putty to the lie as + ‘wave man, one he never encountered serving under Kichibei Takuan windered the Empire for some time serving various Clans, houses, and employers He learned courage from the Grab, resourcefulness from the Unicorn, and humility from the Suzume For four years, he was the headman of Nanashi Mura, and learned leadership. Then, he met Toturi, and learned devotion “The campaigns where he served under Tonuti ate some of ‘Takuan’s fondest memories. Takuan rose through the ranks, including an extended stint as one of Toru’ chief military advisors and even serving for a time as a leader of the legendary Twelve Ronin. Torurs geasp of both tactics and hhuman nature made him an able commander, but Takusn admires Toturis humility and willingness to give all individuals a chance co show their mettle, regardless of station, During the Clan War, Takuan would have gladly given his life for Torus. ‘With Toturi missing, Takuan has found that he ean better serve his former commander by continuing to serve as Imperial Regent until the Emperor ean be found. Takuan was intrigued when Totur first offered him the position, seeing it as very similar tothe role he played in Nanashi Mara, only on larger seal. Even though chs psition entailed learning new skills, Takuan adapted with the same vigor he applied to all challenges. Although he was somewhat unpolished compared to the courtiers he worked with, none could dispute that he would soon be fully qualified as Regent. ‘Toturis disappearance has shifted the requitements of his post considerably. Wheveas before, Takuan was tasked with carrying out the Emperor's wishes, he now needs 19 net only implemenc the decisions made by the Imperial Court, he needs to keep the Court together and the Clans at peace. “Takuan isa good man, and skilled warrior, bt he is not yet teady for this ask ‘But there is no one ese available cha Takuan trusts to fill ‘Toturis wishes. Many have stepped forward to asist Takuan in running the Empire, most notably Kakita Yosbi, but al of them have the interests of their Clans at heart. Takuan, although ke does not see all of the political nuances Tatu di, realizes that the Empire needs tbe unified, and chat even the appearance of favoritism is something he cannot aford right now Se he struggles with his duties, hoping to hold Rokugan together until such time ashe is ready o dizectit as Regent, or until Toru is found. “Takuan feels some guilt over Toturis disappearance, per ceiving Paice security as one of his duties even though the two were no longer on military campaign, The Regent would like nothing more than to take up his blade ike is old com rades:in-arms Daieya, Ginawa, and Hiroru, nd pessonally take up the search for the Empecor, bur realizes that Toruei ‘would want him where he is now 1fTakuan cannot help find the Emperor, he will make sure that Toturi has a healthy, vibrane Empite to return to Peres 1) = COR Ee iaUe= =a) fat 2 eB ro & ryae rere LU OMe nb Ta) ee TAKUAN, IMPERIAL REGENT ‘Male Renin (formerly Daidoji) Human; Sami3, Courtier 4: CR14; Medium-size humanoid; HD 13410+52 + 1d624(450bp; Init +6; Spd 20 fr; AC 25 (15 touch, 20 flat footed Amack «21/16/11 melee (141049, +4 keen katana), $20/+15/s10 ranged (14845, +3 mighty yumi); SQ Hide Class Skill (Family Banus}, Ancestral Daisho, Talent, Seyle & Grace; AL LG; Honor: 25; Glory: 40; Stars: 8.0; SV Fort +12, Ref 46, Will 112; Str 17, Dex 15 (18) Con 18, Int 12, Wis 15, Cha U4; Height 5 10, ‘Shils and Feats: Speak Language (Rokugani, High Rokau- gani), Bartle 117, Bluff 46, laytsu Focus 17, Innuendo +6, Diplomacy +12, Handle Animal +8, Knowledge +11, Knowl edge (Shadowlands) +11, Ride +14, Sense Motive +12, Swim 19, Cleave, Mounted Combar, Power Attack, Great Cleave, Righteous Fury, Daisho Specialization (katana), The Sudden Strike (katana), Tokus Lesson, Way of the Crane, Weapon Focus katana), Void Use Possessions of Note: +4 een hatana (ancestral daisho), +4 keen wakizash (ancestral daisho), 15 lamella armar of hea forte tion, ighty +3 yur light warhorse, gloves of dexterily +3 TAKUAN, IMPERIAL REGENT Barth: Water: 4 Fire: 4 Air: + Void: + School/Rank: Daidoji Bodyguant 1, Eyes of “Toru 1, Otomo Seiyale { (Insight Rank 5) Honor: 25 Glory: 40 Status: 6.0 (Imperial Regent) Advantages: Allies (Imperial Court, Nanashi Mura), Inher: itance (Armor of Sun Tio), Multiple Schools, Social Position Imperial Regent), True Friend (Mirumoro Taki) Disadvantages: Obligation (Nanashi Mura), Mealistic Skills: Athletics 5, Batile 7, Commerce 5, Courtier 4, Defense 4, Diplomacy 6, Horsemanship 4, Hunting 3, lalutsu 5, Jujurst 4, Kuenai s, Kenjutsu 7, Kyujursu 3, Law §, Lore: Shadowlands + CULT OF THE DESTROYER, ACT A QUIET DEATH “yond Rolsupan, thoe exist horrors beyond imagining, Thove are other dark gods than Fu Long, some posses of cruelly an hatred ‘hat no samurai can fathom.” Ide Tamoko, Unicorn Clan Historian the Cult of the Destroyer is an adventure in six parts that takes place across the face of Rokugan during the era of the Empires epic War Against the Darkness. In each chapter, you will ind an installmens of this adventure that relates in some way 10 the events of the peviod covered in that chapter These axiventures are intended to be played as a campaign, but they may also be used individually with only minor modifications if that suits your groups needs syTlorsis The characters are contacted as they are staying in @ city within their lord's domain. The diseeet inguity is from an ‘tomo vista to ther lords court. Alebough she mater bas been leepe quiet, hoth the courtier’s yojimbo have been vileoaly mitered in cei sleep, This is abviously a concern to che courtier, who fears further violence against his person, and to thecharacters' lord who wishes to avenge the dishonor of having Seppun guardsmen killed while visting his domain The Otomo wishes the characters to inguire after the reclusive scholar Seppun Horiken, a cousin of one ofthe smulered men. The yejimbo in question had returned from ‘ising his cousin only rwo days previously, and the Ocomso hs concerns thatthe visit may be linked to the murder in some way The mater needs tobe handled quickly and quietly, and the characters’ loed has assured the Oromo that they are perfectly suited for such ask. The characters find the scholar, buc ace too late to prevent his murder The mans humble home has been ransacked and partially burned, but some documents survive. In the ruins, the characters discover clues leading to a Mantis Clan ‘merchant house inthe lords home ety. They travel bac and confront the assassin, but find more questions in the aleemath oftheir victory “This adventure’ opening scene is eft deliberately vague s0 that individual GMs can incorporate it into their carmpaignsas seamlessly as possible. Depending on where it takes place, the hooks at the end may need to be changed to reflect the ser tings geographical location. Any existing Otomo character from a campaign can be utilized in this adventare, although for convenience this writing makes use of tomo Bans vivor from the Clan War era who has found a somewhat less influensal position among Toturis court ‘The characters receive asealed letter, delivered by servant. “The leter may be delivered to an individual, but instrections accompanying the serell request thatthe group be assembled when itis opened, The serell bears the mon of the Otomo Family, easily recognizable t most samurai (Heraldry roll, 10/Knowledge (nobility & royalty), DC 15) The leier con tains a discreet invitation forthe characters o meet withthe ‘writer ata small shrine just outside the city. There is no name attached, and the srol contains no personal chop or even that of particular family branch, but the Otomo family mon should be sufficient initiative for most characters ‘Assuming thatthe characters follow through, they ative at a small shrine fo Jurojin, the Fortune of Longevity (although the shrine’ patcon ean be changed to something more sut able forthe campeign) Read the following: The quiet of early morning seems to have settled over the shrine like a shroud. Even at this hour, there are normallyadherents and monks in attendance at most shrines, even those as small as this one, A half-dozen. te easy epee eee ere enene ree) rns ere miter a ras rela ener era nen ee | Pee er et ore hema? EeCharacters may wish to atcempt a roll for information on Banus With « successful Courtier/ Knowledge (nobility & roy alty) oll (IN45/DC1S), any character can recall that Banu was something of a power player in the Imperial Court up to the beginning of the Clan War. Afer that, he found his power and influence substantially diminished when Toturi took the throne, alshough the pres. in starure. In any event, he is a high-ranking Otomo, and certainly not the sort of man the characters would wish 10 upset. When che party enters the shrine, read the following: ver vacitaim has seen him rise A man sits alone within the shrine, kneeling before Prange ec eee es like those worn by the guards outside. Despite his apparent desire to remain unnoticed, the Cerone ae iene teeta ‘Whether through pride or arrogance, Otomo Banu refuses to conceal his allegiance, a ee eer please, my friends, I have matters I would diseuss ‘with you? He turns back co the altar, closing his eyes Rr sara ce ec en eet et eee ees be trusted to act with speed, skill, and dise ‘That whieh I would discuss with you should be kept Precast esrea! eerie eens setter jonorable acts in my name. Your silence, how: Pree erst coer ne ees ‘Banu will answer no questions until the characters agree to his conditions. Assuming the characters have no objections, Banu willeontinue. Read che following: por ee ee ing among your lord® court over the past few days; Pa Lota co era tear evar there has sparked many rumors, Some believe your lord has offended me, while others think I was the fender, and he has banished me from his sight The courtier shakes his head sadly: “Unfortunately, the ‘truth is somewhat more gruesome” Banu rises and Per Nee entee ha canter eres altar and you. Clearly, Serer thing to change his love : Boe nes sleep. 1 did not say assassinated, for this was: pee acetone oe rend ce eee ert et ees istic fashion that your lor shagenja have never seen before” Hi this time less for dramatic effe expression seems genuinely remorseful. “Junic Ci eee aes hers nea sree re eee eer erie Cee een net and Banu seems to recover his wits, and continues cae ee ere ted a short leave of duty to visit 2 cousin of hers, 2 man See ere te careers tas Porat crear pat cece ier eer any seclusion in the wilderness 4 few days travel fro here, T fear that Oronoko's visit to him may be involved in this tragedy" The courtier stops his pacing and faces you earnestly. “I need someone to find this man and speak to him, Discover what he and Oronoko spoke of, and whether or not it contributed Pit eng cee et tec ee Pi coe et enero a Ifthe characters decline Banus request, then the courtier wants nothing more to do with them. He cautions them ‘against revealing the nature of their diseussion with others, shen departs without any further conversation ‘Assuming the characters offer their aid to Banu, he will seem noticeably relieved. He will answer any questions the characters might have to the best of his ability, bur unfora: nately there is little information to be had regarding the crime, He will nor reveal specifies regatding the murders, instead going pale and simply saying that they were violent and ritualistic. Banuis understanding of Horiken’s area of study is likewise vague, and he will simply refer tothe man as an obscure historian” SCEn= TWO: THE SCHOLAR'S HOME The home of retived bushi turned scholar Seppun Horiken is atleast two days travel outside the city where the chatacters are located. The directions provided by Banu are somewhat vague, and some degree of improvisation will be required (Hunting, TN 10 / Wilderness Lore, DC 15), There are no se ements or other residences within a day's travel in any direc tion, As the characters approach, read che following. pete Err source for such a thing: there has been a fire here posers the characters discover a simple building pastilly con: sumed by fire, Evidence suggests that the fire was extin- {guished by rain before it erly got started, but the damage i still significant. Horiken is dead, alehough he does not appear to have died in the fire. While the characters should (right fully) be reluctant to touch Horiken's remains, they can still search his home. What they discover depends upon the results of chet skill rol Investigation 10/Search 15: The dark stains upon the blackened floor around Hariken’ body are a clear indication that he did nor die in the fire, bur rather that he was killed | vith «blade, then left in the building as ie burned Investigation 15/Search 20: A scroll dealing Horikenss research into a strange insignia found, from his accounts, on the blade of an assassin who attempted to kill him some weeks ago. Horikens notes indicate the insignia is ‘obviously gaijin {n origin," but not fimilia to the scholar. He further notes that an associate of his may be more knawledgeable with it, and references attempting to contact him through the House of (Crystal Water trading house in the characters’ lords city. Investigation 25/Search 30: A scrap of green cloth, torn from a kimono hangs from a jagged piece of wood near the from wall re NOMMVEI WAG NWAVaAEN i 4 i \ Le } iey Per ( 7 i ? us Z fe) is pleat 1} SEPPUN HORIKEI'S TALE Seppun Horiken was once a bushi serving asa miharu, chose warriors blessed with defending the Emperor and his palace. As he grew older, Horien began ro doubs his abilities belie Ing tharage would cripple his speed so that he could not fulfill his duty: Wieh full honors and recognition from the Emperor himself, the guardsman stepped down. Always 2 bright and curious man, Horiken retired inco obscurity to pursue the study ofa controversial topic that had always fascinaced im gaijin euture, Prom his secluded home, Horiken was able 10 request copies of many Unicorn and Mantis histories thet were made available ro him because of his starus. Though few in the Empire knew his name, Horiken soon became one of Roktugans leading scholars in gaijin lore, Horiken was an early target for the Cult of che Destroyer: The cult’ leaders feared he might be able ro determine their origin if he survived. They were mistaken, both about Horlken’ knowledge of their ways and his capabilites. The firs assassin was killed by the aging but capable bushi, and he quickly began cracking down anything he could find regard ing the Destroyer’ symbol on his gaijin blade, Horiken made plans to contact a Mantis ssociate of his through a local Yorit fomo trading house, unsware that che house had already been compromised by the cult, The second wave of assassins did not fail, but Hortken had already Isid the foundation of an investigation shat could ultimately undo the cult The seroll found at Horiken’s home is relatively imporcant in corms of getting the characters further into the adventure If the party fails thefr attempts 10 locate anyching in the burned rain of Horiken's house, you may provide clues inany other manner you see fit, Perhaps there is a copy of the insignis Horiken was studying someshere else in the house or perhaps one lingering assassin attempts to kill the party and fails, leaving his staal blade behind for them to invest gate, In any event, such clues will send the party in search of Sneuthority on goin lore, which should inevitably lead them to the House of Crystal Water (at least after the Unicorn have been consulted and provide no information). SCENE THREE: THE HOUSE OF CRYSTAL WATER The Hose of Crystal Water isan obvious ead ta pursue either 8 2 means of discovering the natute of the strange gatjin symbol found in Horiken’s home or by reading his account of the investigation from the scrolls recovered at his home. In cither event, the Mantis trading house is the only real source of information on gaijin culture autside of any Unicorn com cerns that may be present within che cir, which turn up noth: ing. ‘The ranking member im sttendance inthe house isa pleas ant, ingratiating man named Yoritomo Utawa. Utawa mate tinea rather busy schedule, bur the characters wil find them: selves admitted to see him very quickly if they appear atthe House asking strange questions, as the Mantis has hecome somewhat paranoid of late. Assuming that the characters attempt 10 see Litawa, read the following ‘The rooms within the House are decorated in an ops lent style thar would make even the most ostenta Porter Meare cba eaermarart lg everything, an open display of the wealth that the pee ear eens ng aoe eee eee cers itely detailed, jade-colored kimono siniles broadly as x With a quick bow, he gestures at, "Greetings, honored recreate et cea comers Mantis Clan be of as ‘Unawewil feign ignorance of any tale involving Seppun Horiken or the gaijin insignia ofthe Destoyer If pressed he will retrieve a calligraphy set and demonstrate another Symbol that only voguely resembles the Destroyers mark, claiming iis a gif waening that means “dangerous waters ahead!” (thiss ue) In anatermpt tobe helpful he assures che characters that he has an associate who will be ariving ia town shortly that may be of more use wo them and that he wil contact them shorty. He wll nt offer Further information beyond saying dat his associate isa kebune captain who is very well ravled After speaking with Uta, there willbe few other leads fr the characters to pursue unless they have ideas of their own they wish to estigate. They may wish to speak with their (Otomo sponsor, oF even report thei progress to thei lord. in any even, it wil be late inthe evening when they are next contacted. Read the following Nog ees Soret ea ret eet you find a young messenger, no more than a boy Peete ee area CL ey deeply and offers you a seroll, Quickly breaking the Step ereertcts Perens Peon ea ete quickly, My associate has arrived, and is extremely Bree eee Renee ene Pesce ete ests The message is, of course, a trap. Urawa has marshaled his loyal forces, a number of Mantis bushi equal to ewiee the partys numbers and plans eliminate them. They layin wait within the House of Crystal Waters, and will ambush the party as soon as they areal within the merchant house. There fsno discussion among the attackers, and any that survive will die before revealing anything tothe characters (the bushi are ‘not members ofthe cul anyway, bus merely thuggish brutes eager for violence). Assuming the characters ae victorious and Ura is killed, shey wil find upon his petson a second strange blade bearing the same gaijin symbol. There are n0 answers to be had at this ime; although the Otomo is never theless grateful that the assassins have been deat with “Although the chasaters will not realize it sight away, they have atracted the cult attention, STATISTICS Yoritomo Utawa: sth level courtier / 2nd level samurai ‘Mantis bushi: éth level fighters Yoritomo Utawa: Rank 3 Yoritomo courtier ‘Mantis bushi: Rank 2 Yoritome bushiri Ler Mes ele (6) a) “wil camp near the Vly of Storms tonzrom wie? Shino Hari ai pointing ote ra pra ut fos hip He sed es sen deo ia he connmandes ascibled front of te," Sots ll mc the Lin foes ae gathering to opis us ‘there. We mus each the aregant Lion’ lest le and noo, alse they will oppose aa efforts fo bring justice at every ste. Tela san e ‘Gta Tes stepped forward, “Ha, Handa “Keep your battle maidens sm reserve ai the begioning of ombat, When you jel the time is right, charge thie Vine and bet thera a “etuko bowed, “We wil ie ready, Haear-samac *Yesoyeasan,” Haare sid ad the man standing next ter steed forward "You aconpand these aie day What “an youll abou the terrain ta we cen ae our advantage” Har: fumed, "Weare in ther leitony nw aid we ml vl rdeltmate the Lin’ levernes® 7 “The stmtegy esi contd lng the might. Doses of Stalgis and bale plans wor dicused en weed. nthe end ‘Banat ad decid tilize aly the simplest of las, relying. on the srength of Unizarn caoary to triumph over the dlenteng ion army, Tetsuko wasn't woried; thee landed of her ‘ik bade maidens rade eth Hanan ariy ad hey sve the atest warriors a could be found in Rokugat: Vicory sme daub at hand Tetsuo yawned al stepped outed the tenon 9 find jou ‘Dhak Xing Chisiting onde floor Once Neng Ch ight Tt sk she lithely sprang to her fet andi bowed, Teisuko smiled esther wearines Rieng Chi reminded he. of hoi she Had ated thal age ‘ Yash ta have word with you, Tetshoomema? Ning Chi said inal oie zs Teta ole ond riled af the yours maven. Ske seed ul hers an lego workout th set ha formed her Aree fer standing ill or «Fg her eormvanden' ton ‘She ased Xieng Chi nonchalantly "Was 6, Xieng Chi-chan?" Ene your guidance Tes-sama 1am nol. wise eight choos the right pth te fake on meu Task oped stretching ad ans nto Xieng Cs bey Her ‘ually bright eyes were darkened with canfictn and torment eave een te oun bate widens mon bor. “Of ier Xeng Ch-ckan. Flew met my fn” ‘hy stepped guy toward Tea’ et and gui ener eng Ch waited as Telsuko lit Lanter and Hg ithe middle of te tent. Aftora few moments, Yetsuke termed tofare her rege. "Noie there Wht weighs your rind? “ts about the éompcign weave about to embark on, Lesko Tetsu bed surprise, Xieng Cha ad nee expressed ony doubts fears abou! pot campaigns, ond se Tad alway neue eval int the tcket ofthe fighting with zalousess. 1 ce’ eps Teak Steg hi conte, “bat feslthatihs campaign is doomed. Ll self seit aks, bul the sense foreboding will t go sur’ “Teluanodded ihoughsidly *Perhags yo re nigey avis about tg eoming bales, Xieng Chu The Lien arny wil Bethe Fowgest challenge you have yet fas Bo nek worry; you wil no oud! revel” No, my lady. That 9 nab he problem.” Xiong Chi set ond fookad ava fron Testo," avior tay, wien ms ost the forest the aronky Mit and Tagashi Hoshi came fo vis me, ‘olsitho masoneyebrus “What di your. unisual vistors sin ‘ ?a r A Ff us 4 AE w ° Ero} waOxr cmaNcoW They tld me Ota Kamcko-sama isin danger She is being hted down in Phoenix lands by vnspeakable evils, They believe that she wall pris without help. They believe it is my destiny to seve the soul of our Thunder. do not wh t leave you, Telsuko-sama” Xieng Chi sad, her woice lowered toa whisper, "bu do nt wish o Jail my daimyo" Tetsuo psd as she tried to voce a veply an dozens of thoughts raced thvough her head an seconds, tn the en her answer wes not Aiffwul tall, ‘Follow your heart, Xieng Cli, ant do what you tray feel you ‘must. f you wish to leave, Twi gladly release you from your duties here Tetsuo smiled warmly. ‘And if you go, be sure fo bring ‘Kaynoko-samia back safely" Xieng Ch bowed ta her commander an ran out he tent heres resolved. Tetsuo smiled to herself whon she heard the Uundering of hooves leading aay from the camp. The gates of Kyuden Hitomi opened slowly, bul Mirunoto Bujun ealloped ito the ease when it was only pail open. He stopped his parting horse inthe middie of the courtyard and jumped af. He pled a srl from his saddle ar threw the reins oa stable boy. ‘with the ease of one who had spout countless hours in the calle, -Bijun emeringly made his way lo the suience chamber “Hitom Kola std in front of the door with his arms evossed, sunmoving. Buju slopped in front ofthe man ancl sai, “Lave ‘an gent message for Our Lady. 1s se tending to court?” ‘Koa turned his gaze on the Miranoto samt fel Hike his tright golden ees stared deal hough Byjun, Once again Bujun fella bi of jealousy atthe mank omle, Hat he sas not essed with ‘the Ladys powers but he quickly suppressed the emotion. "Are you expect bythe Lady?” Kobat saad in his smooth voice Ts sam emergency, man et me int” Bujun snarled. Kobai frowned, but regained his composure in a moment. He ‘mowed to the side and pushed the giant doors open with one hand, Bujun walked into the audience room and knelt tn front of the Uhrome. The Lady sat on her throne, unsurprsed by his sudden ‘enzance, He caught her gaze adhe looked down to the loo: “My Lady! Buju said bowing prostrate, "M6 souts palling the Phoenix border saw Agasha caravans departing our lands. When { Iheerd the news, 1 ordered my men to search the Agasha castle for unusual signs." He clenched his hands tn anger. “My Lady, the Acasha have taken everything from their homes. Their libraries are ave” La! Hilomt said. *So they have all deserted ny case” The door flung open. Weare nt all rato, my dy said a form lumina by the light "Some of us remember our oaths” Bujwe turned and squint the could make out the face of Agaska Tarr, the Agasha family daimye *You have remained, Tamar? Hilo said. Baja usa could nol decipher the Ladys expresion did he snse surprise in her voce? “Yes, my lady Tamer seid, and walked forward “My Lady" Bujun whisrered ‘please give me leave to chase the esrters with my legion. Ell make them pay for her treachery” From the corner of his ees, Bujun saw itor Kokufin perk up his head, mic intrest radiating rom his eye. Koji loked up at fhe Lady and they starad at ench ater as they silently held a private conversation No," Hitomi finally said, °F want no legions harassing their cowarily retreat” Hitomi vse fom her throne and fixed her gaze on “Tumor, "Fallow me, Temori” She turned and without a further lance back left the voom. The shugenja strode forward and