World of Dreams, sometimes also known as World of Countless Sins, is widely know for its decadence and lawlessness, many of the highborn samurai as corrupt as they are wealthy. The secretive, indulgent, and outright debauched Shadow Masquerades are a prime example of how these powerful Scorpion peers entertain themselves. Participants in these risqué masquerades are chosen carefully, with only a small cabal of Scorpion nobles allowed to hand out invitations and the location of the gathering kept secret until an hour before the doors open. Within the closed doors, each and every person present is expected to wear a mask to hide their identity, allowing the decadent nobles and their guests to freely enjoy one anothers company without the usual constraints of caste imposed. A carefully curated dress code ensures that all are wearing something daring and extravagant to even walk through the doors. Many of the costumes worn by the guests utilize exotic materials, such as the Crab-crafted glow silks and other artificial fabrics. While some, more noble and honorable, samurai detest such frivolous gatherings, equally many relish the chance to take part in the most wicked and decadent social occasion the world has to offer. Tonight, Soshi Miyako is hosting a party at her mansion with hundreds of nobles and dignitaries in attendance. With Miyako being known as close friend of the governess, the high and mighty are expected to flock to the occasion, both to make an appearance and to entertain themselves. For a canny diplomat, a gathering like this is an ample opportunity to gather information innocuously as the Scorpion are known as gracious and generous hosts.

Magic: Magic is not allowed unless character rolls contested Agility / Stealth (Spellcasting) against the guests. Emphasis is needed to make the roll and only that spells that last at least for an hour can be employed. Needless to say, getting caught has consequences. Soshi Shugenja school technique can be used to bypass this restriction.

Securing an invitation: Ronin This is a high society event. Ronin characters with Benten's Blessing or Dangerous Beauty Advantages may try to secure an invitation by rolling Glory and keeping 1 dice against TN 10. (e.g. Glory 2 ronin would roll 2k1). Void can be spent on this roll as normal. Other, more plain looking ronin have to deal with the fact that the decadent high society of the World of Dreams wants to have nothing to do with them.

Noblesse oblige: Non-ronin
While a diplomats can usually secure invitations to the decadent fêtes organized by the Scorpion, those with fame and influence find it far easier to mingle with the hosts. To represent this, non-ronin characters reduce their TN's by 1 for each rank of Status beyond 1. Similarly, non-ronin characters reduce their TN's by 1 for each two rank of Glory beyond 1. e.g. Status 3, Glory 3 character would reduce their TN's by 3. Ronin that somehow manage to secure an invitation never benefit from such TN discounts.

World of Make Believe
The Shadow Masquerades instill a rigid code of conduct upon the participants, the event etiquette dictating when one can approach an another person and what sort of topics should be discussed. The Scorpion peers have woven a weave of unspoken rules for their own amusement, smirking behind their elaborate masks as the newcomers fumble around. To avoid making a fool of themselves and to earn the goodwill of their hosts, character must roll Etiquette/Awareness against TN 20. Characters with Precise Memory or Clear Thinker Advantage roll against TN 15 instead. Success and each successful Raise called grants the character a Free Raise on 'The Dance' roll. This roll does not trigger Benten's Blessing.

The Dance
As much as the Shadow Masquerades celebrate beauty and grace, inviting the guests to enjoy themselves on the dance floor, the real dance often happens behind heavy curtains in shadowed rooms. The Scorpion invite each and every guest to join them, playing a game of words, eager to shred apart anyone overstepping their bounds. To appear courteous and please the Scorpion hosts, character must roll Sincerity (Honesty or Deceit) /Awareness against TN 20. Success and each successful Raise (free or otherwise) called grants the character a Free Raise on 'The Truth Beneath the Rose' roll.

Characters with Contrary Disadvantage roll against TN 25 instead.

Characters with Ide Courtier Rank 1 technique are particularly good at avoiding giving offense in even the most dangerous and hostile of courts and gain a Free Raise on this roll.

This roll triggers Failure of Bushido: Courtesy and Sincerity.
This roll triggers Benten's Blessing.
This roll triggers Touch of Spirit Realms: Sakkaku if and if Sincerity (Deceit) is rolled.

Rolling for 'The Dance' triggers Brash as the Scorpion peers toy with their guests. If you happen to have Brash AND fail the roll, please inform the GM's as soon as possible and prepare for a combat scene.

Truth Beneath the Rose
For those the Scorpion peers find delightful and charming, the night is ripe with opportunities. A character may try pry information from the hosts by rolling Awareness / Investigation at TN 20 twice, Each successful roll and each two successful Raises (called or otherwise) granting the character's faction an Information point. Characters with any of the Contrary , Gullible, Lechery or Frail Mind Disadvantages are easily led astray and roll against TN 25 instead. Rolls are considered to be Social Skill Rolls made against Samurai characters and count as Rolls Contested meaning that techniques and advantages referring to Contested Rolls apply (Including, but not limited to Heart of Vengeance: Scorpion and Bayushi Courtier Rank 1 which grants one Free Raise in this case). This roll triggers Benten's Blessing.

A sex party. She was covering a goddamn sex party. They really should have sent Ikoma "Liz" Anzu, gossiper in chief, who couldn't exit a room without five juicy stories about the people inside, including two she gleefully contributed to directly.

Kanna had barely put a foot inside she was already tired of the excruciatingly complex etiquette and sadane public roleplay high-rank Scorpion apparently required before they could fuck each other. Were the Scorpions even allowed to say fuck actually, or was a ten-words, fifty syllables, circumlocution required instead?

This was going to be long, hard, and impossible to go through without unintentional innuendos.

She had opted for a cheongsam and one of these modern, luxurious, punk masks that left the eyes fully visible so she could stare.

It was important to be able to stare. Terrible joke? Stare. Too raunchy a comment? Stare. Hands getting dangerously close? Stare. Any kind of interaction with anyone at this party really? Stare.

Yes, she was terrible at this affected promiscuity thing. At least she had ears to hear what was going on.

---

D4 LE, Information Event: Eyes wide shut, World of Make Believe
Etiquette/Awareness, Base TN 15 (Precise Memory), calling 3 raises so TN30, VP for +1k1 | 8k5 ⇒ 25 (TN: 30)

Failed

D4 LE, Information Event: Eyes wide shut, The Dance
Sincerity (Honesty)/Awareness, Emphasis, Base TN 20, calling 3 raises so TN35 | 6k4 ⇒ 31 (TN: 35)

Failed

D4 LE, Information Event: Eyes wide shut, Truth Beneath the Rose
Awareness/Investigation, Base TN 20, calling 2 raises so TN30, VP for +1k1 | 6k5 ⇒ 52 (TN: 30)

Success, +2 Information points

D4 LE, Information Event: Eyes wide shut, Truth Beneath the Rose
Awareness/Investigation, Base TN 20, calling 2 raises so TN30, VP for +1k1 | 6k5 ⇒ 38 (TN: 30)

Success, +2 Information points

LE4 - Eyes Wide Shut - World of Make Believe (Awareness 4, Etiquette 3, VP +1k1, Noblesse Oblige Status 3, 3 Called Raises, TN 33) | 8k5 ⇒ 59 (TN: 33) 4 Free raises on The Dance Roll

LE4 - Eyes Wide Shut - The Dance (Awareness 4, Sincerity 2, Deceit Emphasis, Touched by Sakkaku +1k1, VP +1k1, Benten's Blessing +0k1, Noblesse Oblige Status 3, Susumu Courtier 1 1FR, 4 FR from prior roll, 3 Called Raises, TN 33) | 8k7 ⇒ 43 (TN: 33) +9 Free Raises to The Truth Beneath the Rose

LE4 - Eyes Wide Shut - The Truth Beneath the Rose (Awareness 4, Investigation 0, VP for Skill, Benten's Blessing +0k1, Noblesse Oblige Status 3, 9 FR from Previous Roll, 1 CR, TN23) | 5k5 ⇒ 33 (TN: 23) 6 Information Points

LE4 - Eyes Wide Shut - The Truth Beneath the Rose Second Roll (Awareness 4, Investigation 0, Benten's Blessing +0k1, Noblesse Oblige Status 3, TN18) | 4k4 ⇒ 26 (TN: 18) 1 Information Point

Total: 7 Information Points

Yuji was dressed rather conservatively. Yet he appeared as something dreamed about from a fantasy of Jigoku. The mask well fitted to his face.

The Serpent was well acquainted with the proper decorum for such a party. Ingratiating himself with the hosts, this type of masquerade was old hat for him at this point.

The vicious dance, however, was HIS domain. These Scorpion thought they were masters of lies, but they merely adopted it. The Susumu were born to it, molded by it. They did not know truth until they were already grown, and as such, his barbs were quick and serpentine, deftly allowing him to slip in close.

And through that closeness, all those pretty little thoughts were his as sweet wine.

These types of nights were not usually ones for people like Sumiko - she's not high society, she's not famous or rich. She's just a simple librarian.

Thankfully however she knew two people who were both, and through Yuji was able to secure an invite. She also managed to secure a very unique look for the little Spider, the contacts being a really good final touch that she'd never thought of before.

While the tiny Spider wasn't one to usually attend due to status or fame, she very much fit in once she was past the doors. Everything she said was careful and planned, but with the carefree appearance to make others feel more comfortable conversing with her. Her natural talents shone through, and by the end of the night she had learnt far more about those around her than they had learnt about her.

(ooc:
Part 1 - World of Make Believe: D4 LE World of Make Believe roll. Etiquette/Awareness+prodigy. TN20+2 raises (TN30) | 8k4 ⇒ 40 (TN: 30) 3 FR for The Dance
Part 2 - The Dance: D4 LE Event part 2 - The Dance. Sincerity(Deceit)/Awareness+Prodigy+Benten's Blessing+void. FR from Susumu Courtier 1+3FR from World of Make Believe. TN20+2 called raises+4 FR to make 3 raises called and TN30 | 9k6 ⇒ 40 (TN: 30) 7 raises for Truth Beneath the Rose

Part 3 - Truth Beneath the Rose
Roll 1: D4 LE Event part 3 - Truth Beneath the Rose roll 1. Investigation/awareness+prodigy+bentens+VP. TN20+1 called raise+7 free raises for TN25 | 8k6 ⇒ 49 (TN: 25) - 5 information points for part 1
Roll 2:D4 LE Event part 3 - Truth Beneath the Rose roll 2. Investigation/awareness+prodigy+bentens. TN20+2 called raises for TN30 | 7k5 ⇒ 44 (TN: 30) 2 information points

7 points scored total

GM NOTE: The 'Truth Beneath the Rose' rolls have been re-rolled due to originally having used incorrect dicepools

/World of Make Believe

Etiquette/Awareness, 1 raise, Noblesse oblige 2, TN 23: D4, Information event, World of Make Believe, Etiquette/Awareness, 1 raise, Noblesse oblige 2 | 7k4 ⇒ 43 (TN: 23)

2 free raises on 'The Dance' roll

The Dance

Sincerity (Deceit) /Awareness, Noblesse oblige 2, TN 18, 2 free raises passed on Truth Beneath the Rose: D4, Information event, The Dance, Sincerity (Deceit) /Awareness, Noblesse oblige 2, TN 18, 2 free raises passed on Truth Beneath the Rose | 6k4 ⇒ 36 (TN: 18)

3 free raises on Truth Beneath the Rose

Truth Beneath the Rose

Awareness / Investigation, 1st roll, Noblesse oblige 2, bayushi courtier 1 tek, 3 declared raises, -10 from 2 free raises, TN 23 ( minus whatever the Bayushi courtier 1 tek brings): D4, Information event, Truth Beneath the Rose, Awareness / Investigation, 1st roll, Noblesse oblige 2, bayushi courtier 1 tek, 3 declared raises, -10 from 2 free raises, TN 23 ( minus whatever the Bayushi courtier 1 tek brings) | 6k4 ⇒ 26 (TN: ?)

Awareness / Investigation, 2nd roll, Noblesse oblige 2, bayushi courtier 1 tek, 3 declared raises, -5 from 1 free raise, vp, TN 28 ( minus whatever the Bayushi courtier 1 tek brings): D4, information event, Truth Beneath the Rose, Awareness / Investigation, 2nd roll, Noblesse oblige 2, bayushi courtier 1 tek, 3 declared raises, -5 from 1 free raise, vp, TN 28 ( minus whatever the Bayushi courtier 1 tek brings) | 7k5 ⇒ 54 (TN: ?)

5 information points

edit: after the edit the gm made regarding free raises being used gaining info in the last two rolls, I'll use the Bayushi courtier 1 tek for turning any free raises it brings on information points.


So! Total information points: 6

Kazumi had managed to acquire a unique mask covering more than usual but also teasing pieces usually covered by their typical mask. Kazumi's clothing choice was also certainly daring wearing a long but thin jacket cinched at the waist showing the Soshi had ample hips for their slender frame. nothing else was worn on top but the jacket opened at the bottom revealing rather short shorts in an unorthodox but ultimately fashionable way. Kazumi strutted showing off slender but well toned legs. As they moved through the party they had an enticing sway to their walk and their voice took on a somewhat sultry quality for the evening.

Kazumi wasn't high society born and raised they were however accustomed to events like these. They had been invited to a number of them and the rules were easily adhered to.

Those that sought the slender Scorpion as a target were sorely disappointed to find their barbs rendered useless and in many cases their own position torn to shreds under Kazumi's clever retorts.

The evening was rather eventful and Kazumi flitted gracefully from one conversation to another picking up details as they went

------------------------
D4 LE event world of make believe Etiquette/awareness glory reduction vp +1k1 3 called raises tn 34 | 7k5 ⇒ 43 (TN: 34) 4 fr on dance roll

D4 LE event The Dance sincerity/awareness glory reduction 4 fr from previous roll 3 cr vp +1k1 tn 34 | 7k5 ⇒ 49 (TN: 34) 8 fr on next roll

D4 LE event The truth inv/aware 8 fr from previous roll vp for skill tn 20 | 5k4 ⇒ 39 (TN: 20) 5 information points

D4 LE event truth behind 2nd roll glory rediction inv awareness unskilled tn 19 | 4k4 ⇒ 21 (TN: 19) 1 information points

Total: 6 information points

Well. It was that time again.

On Rei's budget, there was only so much high fashion that he could afford. Still, he managed to rent something in proper Hare colors. It was in a traditional style, but worn rather as the Scorpion liked to wear things. That is, open enough at the front to show some chest. His mask was in simple black, covering his face without embellishment.

He'd been here long enough to be able to navigate the flows of conversation. To be able to look good and politely deflect. And to be able to get the information.

But damn, he'd forgotten just how hot everyone was!

More than once, Rei found himself lead off, or his head turning at an inopportune time. But really, that was all part of the game, and he managed to get at least part of what he came here for.

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

D4LE Event, World of Make Believe, Etiquette/Awareness, VP 1k1, Status 2, 1CR | 6k4 ⇒ 32 (TN: 24) - 2 raises gained

D4LE Event, The Dance, Sincerity/Awareness, Status 2, 1FR effect 1 FR +5 | 5k3+5 ⇒ 26 (TN: 19) 2 FR gained

D4LE Event, Truth Beneath the Rose, roll 1, Investigation/Awareness, Witchfinder 1k0, VP 1k1, Lechery, Status 2, 2FR effect | 8k5 ⇒ 36 (TN: 24) BAD ROLL - TOO MANY KEPT DICE

D4LE Event, Truth Beneath the Rose, roll 1, Investigation/Awareness, Witchfinder 1k0, VP 1k1, Lechery, Status 2, 2FR effect CORRECTED ROLL | 8k4 ⇒ 54 (TN: 24) 2 Information gained

D4LE Event, Truth Beneath the Rose, roll 2, Investigation/Awareness, Witchfinder 1k0, VP 1k1, Lechery, Status 2 | 8k4 ⇒ 26 (TN: 24) 1 Information gained

Internally, Osamu is groaning.

Seriously? A masquerade? On a planet where the native samurai all wear masks?

"I mean seriously, think of the cliches." He doesn't realize for a moment that he's spoken out loud. "Err, you have to lean into them a little. That's how you subvert them, no?"

Whew! Saved it.

The word games as pithy enough, Asako plays charmingly naive. "Why yes, I do have a wakizashi in my pocket. You cannot imagine how hard it was to find a proper place to fit it with the costume, I'll need to have words with my tailor. Arriving to an event like this without one would not be befitting of a samurai, can you imagine? Oh but, I am happy to see you."

He's not a master of the game, and is imagining what each tittering courtier would look like in an alley, but he manages to play enough to glean a few interesting tidbits.


_______________

D4LE - Eyes Wide Shut - World of Make Believe - Awareness/Etiquette - TN reduced by 2 for Status -TN 18 | 4k3 ⇒ 19 (TN: 18)

D4LE - Eyes Wide Shut - The Dance- Awareness/Sincerity -TN increased by 5 due to Contrary Disadvantage -TN reduced by 2 for Status -TN 23 - Free raise for effect passed from World of Make believe - VP spent | 5k4 ⇒ 57 (TN: 23)

D4LE - Eyes Wide Shut - Truth Beneath the Rose #1 -TN increased by 5 due to Contrary Disadvantage -TN reduced by 2 for Status -TN 23 -two free raise from The Dance passed for effect - VP spent | 6k3 ⇒ 32 (TN: 23) Passed with Raise

D4LE - Eyes Wide Shut - Truth Beneath the Rose #2 -TN increased by 5 due to Contrary Disadvantage -TN reduced by 2 for Status -TN 23 - - VP spent | 6k3 ⇒ 31 (TN: 23) Passed with Raise

3 Information points gained
(misread value of raises, shifted raises to one roll, will drop to 2 if necessary

This wasn't exactly like any kind of event Yakumo had attended before. Not that she wouldn't fit in, but she did feel a bit outside of her realm here. Her hosts on the other hand made sure that she felt very much at home though, with whispered words about the spider-princess behind fans and veils to give some gravitas to her presence and her moves that would allow her to perform to tonight's event with ease.

Dressed to the theme of peacocks, with what seemed like a full-face mask or perhaps just a combination of mask and exellent facepaint-work, wearing a black ao dai adorned with a peacock in gemstone and sequins, the only thing that could give away the spider-princess' true identity was a pair of black silken gloves with faint spiderweb patterning.

By this time in her life, she was used to navigating difficult social situations and she navigated this one too skillfully, quickly learning the ebb and flow of this party. There was a moment when someone nearly tripped her up, to cause her to make a fool of herself... but they did not know they were facing off against the embodiment of Perfection, and Yakumo pivoted the incident to her advantage, even if it was a cruel trick.

And an impressive advantage it was.

------

D4 LE EVENT: Eyes Wide Shut. Noblesse Oblige (-3 to TNs). World of Make-Believe. Etiquette/Awareness. 2 raise. TN 27 | 7k4 ⇒ 37 (TN: 27)
3 FRs to The Dance.

D4 LE EVENT: Eyes Wide Shut. Noblesse Oblige (-3 to TNs). The Dance. Sincerity/Awareness. +1k1 Void. 3 FRs (World of Make-Believe) for effect. 1 Raise. TN 22. | 6k5 ⇒ 20 (TN: 22)
D4 LE EVENT: Eyes Wide Shut. Noblesse Oblige (-3 to TNs). The Dance. Paragon of Perfection | 1k1 ⇒ 6 (TN: ?)
Total: 28 (success). -.5 Honor.
5 FRs to The Truth Beneath The Rose

D4 LE EVENT: Eyes Wide Shut. Noblesse Oblige (-3 to TNs). Truth Beneath The Rose #1. Investigation/Awareness. Void for Skill. 1 FR for +5. 3FRs for effect. TN 17. | 5k4+5 ⇒ 37 (TN: 17)
((Misread this part. GM allowed me to move 1FR over to the next roll. *bows*))
2 Information Points!

D4 LE EVENT: Eyes Wide Shut. Noblesse Oblige (-3 to TNs). Truth Beneath The Rose #2. Investigation/Awareness. Void for Skill. 2FRs for effect. TN 17. | 5k4 ⇒ 48 (TN: 17)
2 Information Points!

4 Information Points for the Spider

With the the Kakita Stochastic Couturier machine somehow knowing Hinata would need appropriate dress for tonight it had spun him an off the shoulder, floor length dress of sparkling dark blue silk in the Stormbird fashion. It was slit to the waist down the side of each leg revealing matching fishnet stockings up to mid thigh. He'd completed the look with silver strappy heels that elevated him to the lofty heights of . . . 5'3".

Which left a mask . . . which in proper Hinata fashion he'd never considered he might need. At a Scorpion ball . . . on a Scorpion planet . . . known galaxy wide for Scorpion shenanigans. Which was why he now sported a traditional kitsune half mask from the nose up, over blood red painted lips and a long white wig to try and hide his distinctive blue hair. The wig having been added by the Embassy staff as there was no way Hinata would have remembered he needed to stay 'anonymous' tonight. They'd also given him a lecture on how to behave which he'd promptly forgotten.

On arrival he'd taken a moment to look around at everything going on . . . and managed not to faint in shock. Well there was nothing he hadn't seen before in Crane lands . . . just it was usually kept very private and without an entire Masked Ball's worth of participants. Luckily for him he was very good at fitting in to strange situations, usually be just being himself. So he was just himself. They had a dance floor and he seriously knew how to dance, so all was fine. This eventually led to a series of invitations deeper into the ball and the smaller, more private rooms. Oh this was just like what back home!! Just with masks, and less clothing, and . . .

". . . Excuse me, what did you just say? It sounded a lot like you were expecting me to . . . Oh. of course. That makes soooooo much sense now. Better done from the sitting position and facing the other way though!"

It seemed his answer was appropriate . . . or he'd just totally confused the Scorpion nobility here. He'd confused himself a little as well to be fair, but that once again was just him being him. In the end he overheard enough information that when he returned to the Crane Embassy and repeated it all, he'd actually proved somewhat useful to the Daidoji efforts on the planet.

--
D4 LE EWS World of Make Believe: Eti/Awa, Glory 6, TN 18 | 7k4 ⇒ 39 (TN: 18) 1 FR to The Dance
D4 LE EWS The Dance: Sinc/Awa, FR to lower TN, Glory 6, TN 13. | 5k4 ⇒ 38 (TN: 13) 1 FR to Truth Beneath the Rose which cannot be used due to lack of skill.
D4 LE EWS Truth Beneath the Rose: Inv/Awa, ALL the disads, Glory 6, unskilled, TN 23. Roll #1 | 4k4 ⇒ 22 (TN: 23) SOOOOOOOO CLOSEEEEEEEEEEEE!!! but no cigar.
D4 LE EWS Truth Beneath the Rose: Inv/Awa, ALL the disads, Glory 6, unskilled, TN 23. Roll #2 | 4k4 ⇒ 26 (TN: 23) OH MY CAT WE HAVE A WINNER . . . errr 1 Information Point.

Totals = 1 Information point to the Crane.

Wearing his most fitting outfit for the night, the now very in vogue yet completely masked tuxedo man from the Kaiu family enters the ball room with a renewed hope in his heart. This disguise was perfect to hide who he was, and that was a chance for him to actually try to find, perhaps, some romantic endeavour while still kicking ass in getting his secret agent job a victory in this Shadow War.

His training in front of the mirror did not go to waste. Having rehearsed all the mannerism required for the ball, he replicates the code of conduct at its core. As much as the Crab within him just wanted to get some sake and chill.

Taking a step ahead, Setsu fetches himself a pretty partner to dance. Of course he was hoping for a certain important someone, which he might or might have not been successful.

As he dashes with his charming dancing partner through the ballroom with a rose in his teeth, he overhears the various talks and tidbits of whats going on around, keeping mental notes to share with his superiors afterwards.

--

D4, LE, World of Make Believe
Etiquette/Awareness -2 TN (Status 3) + 1k1 VP + 1 CR | 5k5 ⇒ 23 (TN: 23)
Invalid Roll

D4, LE, World of Make Believe, Etiquette/Awareness -2 TN (Status 3) [Reroll since there's no CR in unskilled roll] | 4k4 ⇒ 18 (TN: 18)
Success! +1 FR

D4, LE, The Dance, Sincerity (Honesty or Deceit)/Awareness -2 TN (Status 3) + VP for Skill + 1 CR +1 FR | 5k4 ⇒ 35 (TN: 18)
Success! +3 FR (instead of 2 FR, reviewed by Thimacek - Thanks)

D4, LE, Truth Beneath the Rose, Awareness/Investigation -2 TN (Status 3) + 2 FR + 1 VP for Skill | 5k4 ⇒ 39 (TN: 18)
Invalid Roll (Thimacek allowed a reroll to add the extra FR, and a +1 CR, below)

D4, LE, Truth Beneath the Rose, Awareness/Investigation -2 TN (Status 3) + 3 FR + 1 VP for Skill + 1 CR (Re-roll with GM permission) | 5k4 ⇒ 26 (TN: 23)
+3 Information Points

D4, LE, Truth Beneath the Rose, Awareness/Investigation -2 TN (Status 3) | 4k4 ⇒ 20 (TN: 18)
+1 Information Point

Total = +4 Information Points

--
Edit: GM nudge to fix the rolls. Thanks and sorry for the confusion.

Eyes covered by an elaborate mask and hair bleached a bit to a pink rather than her usual red, Bayushi Tenma found herself mingling at yet another party on the World of Dreams. It seemed this sort of thing would be a part of her work here, but this time she wasn't dressed up in magistrate uniform. It wasn't precisely undercover since basically everyone here was anonymous, but it felt that way.

Despite being anonymous she was still given a little bit of deferential treatment, the hosts knowing who she was at least. And those who weren't the hosts seemed to give the attractive young woman deference of a different variety. Still, she wasn't exactly a courtier, so she still stood out like a sore thumb in some ways, and was a bit awkward in her conversations and such. Not that she stumbled or made a fool of herself, but her stiff manners and such marked her out clearly as a bushi or something of the sort, and the information around her flowed more like ketchup from one of those glass bottles than like the alcohol flowing at the party here.

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

Day 4, Late Evening, Eyes wide shut, World of Make Believe, Etiquette/Awareness, TN 17 (TN20 - 3TN from Noblesse Oblige) | 4k3 ⇒ 28 (TN: 17) = 1 free raise on The Dance

Day 4, Late Evening, Eyes wide shut, The Dance, Sincerity (Honesty)/Awareness, TN 17 (TN20 - 3TN from Noblesse Oblige), 1 Free Raise from step 1 (The World of Make Believe) | 4k3 ⇒ 23 (TN: 17) = 2 free raises on Truth

Day 4, Late Evening, Eyes wide shut, Truth Behind the Rose, roll 1, Investigation/Awareness, TN17 (TN20 - 3TN from Noblesse Oblige), 2 free raises from step 2 (The Dance) | 5k3 ⇒ 22 (TN: 17) = 2 information points

Day 4, Late Evening, Eyes wide shut, Truth Behind the Rose, roll 2, Investigation/Awareness, TN17 (TN20 - 3TN from Noblesse Oblige) | 5k3 ⇒ 22 (TN: 17) = 1 information point

Total Result = 3 Information Points

A samurai-ko in a cherry-light dress appeared, which was both traditional and daring (or trying to be, if the figure had a more traditionally Scorpion figure), while wearing a mask that was sheer elegance in its simplicity. Her traditional scent, the Wild Cherry flavor of Tail 9, hung heavily around her in a cloud of aroma, denser than usual.

Sakura (for it was she under the cunning disguise /snrk/) was familiar with the conventions of the Circus of Sin, the Vanity of Vice, the...Neighborhood of Naughtiness, that was Scorpion galas. At least, from rumors, and standing in as an occasional ornamental ronin. Glancing around, she decided with some trepidation that Yurei could have fit in...with some amount of make up. And a new dress.

She bowed to the (presumed) hostess, observing both the spoken and unspoken rules, not intimidated by the crowd of jeering nobles surrounding her like sharks a bleeding sailor. She stood gracefully, her greetings polite and surprising to some.

She followed a couple of Scorpion behind the curtain, dueling their wits with her own sharp tongue, lashing out punishments for their insolance and ignorance. "Why yes, this IS my first time at such an occasion." she lied sweetly as she spun away from a pair of grasping, desperate hands.

Through her girlish giggles and daring dances, she flitted from fool to fool, picking up pieces of gossip. The Dark Forge seemed to be churning out a type of new drill, and expected to flood the market. A pair of high-profile Soshi actresses seemed to be cheating on each other...with each other. So trite. Such foolishness. Such delicious foolishness.

OOC:
D4 LE Eyes Wide Shut - World of Make Believe, Etiquette/awareness, 1 CR, tn 25 | 7k4 ⇒ 28 (TN: 25)
1 FR to next roll

D4 LE Eyes Wide Shut - The Dance - Sincerity (Deceit)/Awareness, Phantom rank due to Crafty, VP for +1k1, +2 from Wolf's Way, 2 CR, 1 FR from previous roll | 6k5+2 ⇒ 57 (TN: 30)
4 FR to next rolls

D4 LE Eyes Wide Shut - Truth Beneath the Rose, Investigation/Awareness, VP for +1k1, +2 from Wolf's Way, 2 CR | 6k5+2 ⇒ 37 (TN: 30)
2 Information points

D4 LE Eyes Wide Shut - Truth Beneath the Rose, Investigation/Awareness, 4 FR from the Dance | 5k4 ⇒ 20 (TN: 20)

3 Information points

Total: 5 Information points

This was a rare appearance by Kiyoshi without the Detective. The Fox had never been entirely comfortable at these types of parties and he didn't feel it was an appropriate place for the monkey. His unease was evident and all to easy for others to see. He played their games well enough, however, and even managed to learn a small bit in the process.


- - -
[D4 LE] Information Event: Eyes wide shut, Etiquette/Awareness, Glory 6, TN 18, VP for skill | 4k3 ⇒ 14 (TN: 18) Fail
[D4 LE] Information Event: Eyes wide shut, Sincerity/Awareness, Glory 6, TN 18, VP for skill | 4k3 ⇒ 30 (TN: 18) Success
+1 Free raise for Investigation Roll
[D4 LE] Information Event: Eyes wide shut, Investigation/Awareness, Glory 6, 1 CR TN 23 | 6k3 ⇒ 15 (TN: 23) Fail
[D4 LE] Information Event: Eyes wide shut, Investigation/Awareness, Glory 6, 1 FR TN 23 | 6k3 ⇒ 24 (TN: 18) Success
+1 Point (Misread worth of Raises)

+1 Information Point

A slender gentleman entered the Tower of Sins wearing nothing less than a mask reminiscent of a Ram, paired with a lush wig reminiscent of a slick coat and a sleek matching kimono suit, albeit one with a large V cut that, while not muscular, showed off his nonetheless smooth chest.

This unknown gentleman moved with a radiance that made it clear to everyone in the room that this was not his first event of this kind.

For Nishida, a wonderful evening would begin....

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D4, LE - World of Make Believe - Etiquette 3 / Awareness 4, Void +1k1, 3CR Status/Glory Reduction: 2 | 8k5 ⇒ 43 (TN: 33) +4 FR for "The Dance"

D4, LE - The Dance - Sincerity (Deceit) 2 / Awareness 4, 4FR, 1CR, Status/Glory Reduction: 2 | 6k4 ⇒ 74 (TN: 23) +6 Raises for Truth Beneath the Rose

D4, LE - Truth Beneath the Rose -Investigation 3 / Awareness 4, Void +1k1, 2CR 6FR, Status/Glory Reduction: 2 | 8k5 ⇒ 67 (TN: 28) +5 Informations

D4, LE - Truth Beneath the Rose -Investigation 3 / Awareness 4, Void +1k1, 2CR Status/Glory Reduction: 2 | 8k5 ⇒ 51 (TN: 28) +2 Informations

Total 7 informations

For such lewd behavior to be everywhere... well, it hardly phased someone like Yesugen. She shocked herself with how composed she was as she walked around with this silly mask that the embassy had bequeathed her: a smiling cat, a joke at her expense that she didn't really think much of. The whiskers were admittedly extremely cute on her but even more were the ears placed over her gelled-back hair.

Perhaps her patron cat did well for her. Her usual brooding got to be played off as alluring and mysterious, even if she meant nothing of the sort. As she fluttered about, she made sure to keep her eyes up instead of drifting below, allowing her to collect information about important things rather than tidbits which would only serve in the bedroom.

---

(D4 EE) - Eyes Wide Shut (World of Make Believe): Etiquette / Awareness TN 20 | 3k2 ⇒ 42 (TN: 20)

(D4 EE) - Eyes Wide Shut (The Dance) - Sincerity / Awareness TN 20, FR from Last Roll for +5 | 3k2+5 ⇒ 23 (TN: 20)

(D4 EE) - Eyes Wide Shut (Truth Beneath the Rose - Roll 1) - Investigation / Awareness TN 20, FR from Last Roll for +5, Inheritance | 4k3+5 ⇒ 29 (TN: 20)

(D4 EE) - Eyes Wide Shut (Truth Beneath the Rose - Roll 2) - Investigation / Awareness TN 20, Inheritance | 4k3 ⇒ 22 (TN: 20)

2 Information Points

Reki had a duty...well actually she didn't, but she felt she did and that was good enough. The Lioness appeared in her best evening gown. It hugged her form uncomfortable with a away to high slit and way too low neckline, well by her standards. Most would call the dress 'cute' if they were generous, 'modest' if they were being truthful.

As for a mask, Reki had chosen something more equine, the muzzle of the horse sticking out just past her face leaving her face bare from the nose down. The colors were an odd choice that somehow had been harmonized....earth tones and a subtle shade of purple.

She navigated the waters well, managing to project just enough of an hidden allure to draw some attention without embarrassing herself. But the night had left her own edge and she was only able to retain some of the information teased out.

-----------

[D4 LE] INFORMATION EVENT: EYES WIDE SHUT - World of Make Believe - Etiquette/AWA 6k4 - Rolling with the correct Dice Pool! 1 Raise, TN25 | 6k4 ⇒ 39 (TN: 25) - Success! 2 FRs on The Dance

[D4 LE] INFORMATION EVENT: EYES WIDE SHUT - The Dance - Sincerity/AWA 5k4 - Rolling with the correct Dice Pool! Using 2 Free raises from WoMB as regular raises. VP Spent. Benten's Active! TN 25 Because of Contrary | 6k6 ⇒ 38 (TN: 25)
- Success! 3 FRs for Truth Beneath the Rose

[D4 LE] INFORMATION EVENT: EYES WIDE SHUT - Truth Beneath the Rose - Investigation/AWA 5k4 - Roll 1 - Using 2 FRs from The Dance to lower TN by 10. TN starts at 25 Due to Contrary. Benten's Active. Final TN 15 | 5k5 ⇒ 28 (TN: 15) - Success 1 Information point!

[D4 LE] INFORMATION EVENT: EYES WIDE SHUT - Truth Beneath the Rose - Investigation/AWA 5k4 - Roll 2 - Using 1 FR from The Dance to lower TN by 5. TN starts at 25 Due to Contrary. Benten's Active. Final TN 20 | 5k5 ⇒ 18 (TN: 20) - Failure!

1 Information point for the Lion total!

Costume inspired by https://www.pinterest.com/pin/30680841204063220/

A confection of carefully pleated and cut fabric, strips of thinly cut metal, and areas of gently glowing cloth moves with an eye-deceiving blurring effect beneath a mask utilizing the same techniques with a bit more structure to create the effect of solid smoke. Every movement offers a tantalizing hint of the skin beneath, but the endless movement makes it all quite indistinct. The heaviness of the wearer's footfalls offers some hint of the sturdier scaffolding beneath those shifting layers; underpinnings sturdy enough to offer support in the case of a stumble so that the wearer makes do without her habitual cane, though few would mistake her limping gait for anyone else's.

Is this outfit fashionable? Not remotely. It's a striking piece of engineering and creative tailoring for sure though. Locals and fans of niche fashion may recognize stylistic cues of a local Soshi designer.

Tsuyo moves through the party with the practiced, and somewhat cautious, air of someone who's been here long enough to be comfortably wary of all these Scorpion in their element. She skillfully avoids the actual dance floor, most of the drinks, and several renowned bores while managing a number of interesting conversations in spite of her need to make her own opinions known...even when her conversation partners might reveal more if they *didn't* know quite where she stood on any given topic.

************************
World of Make Believe
D4 LE: Eyes Wide Shut: World of Make Believe--Etiquette/Awareness base TN 14 (Precise Memory, -1 for Glory) Void for +1k1 2 raises | 6k4 ⇒ 48 (TN: 24)

3 free raises for The Dance

The Dance
D4 LE: Eyes Wide Shut: The Dance--Sincerity/Awareness base TN 24 (Contrary, -1 for Glory), Void for skill. 3 FR from previous. 2 to lower TN to 14, 1 to use as for effect | 4k3 ⇒ 20 (TN: 14)

2 FR for Truth Beneath the Rose


Truth Beneath the Rose
#1 D4 LE: Eyes Wide Shut: Truth Beneath the Rose Roll #1--Investigation/Awareness base TN 24 (Contrary, -1 for Glory), Void for +1k1. 2 FR from previous. | 6k4 ⇒ 32 (TN: 24) 2 points

#2 D4 LE: Eyes Wide Shut: Truth Beneath the Rose Roll #2--Investigation/Awareness base TN 24 (Contrary, -1 for Glory) | 5k3 ⇒ 25 (TN: 24) 1 point

3 points total

Finally, it was Yamako's time to shine. She'd been prepping her outfit and her mind for this event all day, knowing this was her best chance to gain information for her clan.

Noburu had been...less than thrilled at her clothing choice but acknowledged that part of her job as a diplomat was to catch attention and then use it. Even if it occasionally made him want to growl at folks. The high slit and low neckline had caused some particular staring and distraction when she was packing.
But she was thrilled, as she strode into the Tower of Night in her eye catching gown purple and glittery mask. For to her, this dress and the glittery mask that seemed to resemble a fey magical creature were like armor. They were her weapons and forms. In them, she was as powerful as anyone.

Her time at New Kalani and navigating the different ways of clans served her well as she navigated the complex movements and rules of the Scorpion court. Perhaps she would have done well here. But it was so much better to know this was merely a temporary part of her duty and not a place she would live.

D4,LE Information Event-
Etiquette 4, awareness 3, -2 to TN due to Status 2 and Glory 2.1, one called raise raising TN to 23 | 7k3 ⇒ 25 (TN: 23)

Success, one free raise on dance

She was engaged in conversation by a lovely woman in a Scorpion mask. Her enigmatic smiles reminded her of Hashinako for a moment, but they had none of the kindness and softness she possessed. Still, it was like a thrilling acrobat trial, weaving between all the words and lies without telling an untruth herself. It was exhilarating in a way to stretch herself to the utmost.

D4 LE Event-The dance roll
Sincerity(Honesty)-3, Awareness 3, 1 free raise due to Ice courtier, 1 free raise due to successful raise on previous roll, Benten's Blessing adds 0K1, 1 void point 1k1, TN reduced by 2 due to status and glory, 2 additional called raises raising TN to 28 | 7k5 ⇒ 38 (TN: 28)

Success, 4 free raises to next roll

As they spoke, Yamako felt a small tension as a mention of combat rose up and she put all her senses into discerning what that might be caused by. Maybe this would be the time it all paid off!

First roll for Truth beneath the rose (reroll approved by GM)

However, as she leaned In to hear something interesting being said, she inadvertently tripped with her heels and landed in a nearby fountain. The laughter was....less than optimal.

D4, LE, Truth behind the rose reroll (GM approved)

3 awareness, 2 investigation, Benten's blessing for 0K1, Void point for 1k1, 5 free raises, 1 called raise | 6k5 ⇒ 23 (TN: 23)

(OOC: TN should be 24)


When she was in the bathroom trying to dry herself, she thought she heard something about Mantis privateers but instead discovered a couple who had been trysting there. Not even an interesting one for secrets.

2nd roll for truth beneath the rose:

D4, LE, Truth behind the rose reroll for 2nd roll (GM approved)

3 awareness, 2 investigation, Benten's blessing for 0K1, Void point for 1k1, 1 called raise | 5k4 ⇒ 18 (TN: 24)


This was just not her night. Maybe she should just go home.

0 points for unicorn.

The evening had started off so well! He'd navigated the ins and outs of Scorpion etiquette with aplomb, ready to take on information gathering with every bit of good will at his back. Unfortunately, there was a bit of alcohol available and one particularly charming person, and he didn't remember a lot of the rest of the night, aside from it being pleasant...

~~~

D4 LE, Eyes Wide Shut, World of Make Believe, Etiquette/Awareness TN 15 (Clear Thinker), 3 raises for TN 30, Void +1k1, Tech +1k0 | 8k5 ⇒ 44 (TN: 30) (4 Free Raises on The Dance)

D4 LE, Eyes Wide Shut, The Dance, Sincerity/Awareness TN 20, 2 called raises for TN 30, Void +1k1, Tech +1k0, 4 Free Raises | 8k5 ⇒ 36 (TN: 30) (7 total FR on Truth from Beneath the Rose)

D4 LE, Eyes Wide Shut, Truth from Beneath the Rose, Investigation/Awareness TN 20, 3 called raises for TN 30, Void +1k1, Tech +1k0, 7 Free Raises | 9k5 ⇒ 22 (TN: 35) Fail, lawl

D4 LE, Eyes Wide Shut, Truth from Beneath the Rose, Investigation/Awareness TN 20, 3 called raises for TN 35, Tech +1k0 | 8k4 ⇒ 28 (TN: 35)