(co-hosts: Saru Yatsufusa, Wu Ko)


Elemental Discussions
Day: 6
Timeslot: Late Morning
Participants: Open to everyone
Magic: Allowed (spells must have a duraton of 1 hour or more)

The daughter of Lord Togashi, Togashi Satsuki, is hosting an open discussion on the nature of the elements and elemental magic. She is seeking new and interesting views on how magic can be performed, and to understand the different approaches to calling upon the kami among the people of Shiba’s Empire.
Joining her in overseeing the discussions is Wu Ko and Saru Yatsufusa, her two travelling companions and friends.
To keep things orderly, one at a time is given a chance to talk about their own theories and knowledge, and to demonstrate as well if they are so inclined.

The purpose of this open forum is to understand more of the many different ways of magic and communion with the spirits practiced in the Empire, allowing people to speak of new ways established within the clans as well as the ways of old originating from different tribes and groups. The floor is also open to new ideas and theories to be brought forth.
(OOC: Think of this as a fun exercise in world-building fluff how different groups may have approached magic and spiritual worship, and how it might look like among the clan today)

Formulate your theory
You may roll Lore: Elements/Intelligence, Lore: Spirit Realms/Intelligence, Lore: Elemental Dragons/Intelligence, Lore: Theology/Intelligence, or Lore: Shugenja/Intelligence against TN 15. A successful roll gives 1 Thesis Point, plus 1 additional Thesis Point for each successful raise.
If you possess any Emphases on the skill of your choice, you may apply it.


Present your theory
This step has different options, and you may only choose one. Characters with Elemental Blessing or Friend of the Elements gain a Free Raise on their roll in this step.

• Practical presentation: You may cast Summon (any element), with +5 to the TN for sake of presentation (for a total of TN 15). A successful roll gives 1 Thesis Point, plus 1 additional Thesis Point for each successful raise.
• Theoretical presentation: You may roll Spellcraft/Intelligence against TN 15 to present your thoughts. A successful roll gives 1 Thesis Point, plus 1 additional Thesis Point for each successful raise.
• Mystical presentation: You may display the use of a Kiho you know, rolling Meditation/Void against TN 15. A successful roll gives 1 Thesis Point, plus 1 additional Thesis Point for each successful raise. Alternatively, you may choose to spend a Void point to automatically activate the Kiho, as per Kiho rules, which earns you 1 Thesis Point for succeeding, but cannot benefit from any raises (free or called).

Defend your theory
To argue the worth of your magical theory to not only the others but Togashi Satsuki as well, you must roll either Courtier/Awareness or Sincerity/Awareness against TN 15 to push for the worth of your presentation. A successful roll gives 1 Thesis Point, plus 1 additional Thesis Point for each successful raise.
Shugenja and Monk characters roll against TN 10 instead, as their training and place in society gives them an easier time speaking on the subject.


Rewards
The character with the most Thesis Points is rewarded with the personal acknowledgement of Togashi Satsuki, and is gifted with a scroll written by Togashi containing mysterious words of wisdom.

The character with the second most Thesis Points is rewarded a copy of the writings of Togashi Saruko.

The character with the third most Thesis Points is rewarded with a copy of the writings of Wu.

Hikaru was there, but less to speak, more to listen. That he would put forth his own eyes was only in an attempt to encourage others to speak on the subjects he hoped they would. In speaking about the supernatural, perhaps he could learn just a little bit more. If some embarrassing talk could let him overhear something that would let him help Lady Doji, so be it.

Besides, he found he was enjoying the company of the Dragon. As a whole.

"The Crane approach magic as they do so much else. As a well-ordered garden." Hikaru spoke in his soft voice. "There must be balance. There must be harmony. And unwanted elements must be kept out. It is this that I am most concerned about. How might an imbalance affect spellcasting? Or an element that does not belong? Something worthy of more study, I feel. Ah... in my limited understanding, that is." Hikaru bowed as he retreated.

He hoped it would be useful to him...

...

D6LM, Formulate, what's a theory, raw int: 3d10 24 - 1 thesis point!
D6LM, Present, what's a spellcraft, raw int: 3d10 8
D6LM, Defend, hey a skill I have, Court/aware, benten, 1CR: 4d10o10k4 16 BOO
1 thesis point

Nozomi attempted to come up with something solid, coherent, easily understood to those who were not actually of the monastic orders. The kiho that she wielded, while things known to other monks like Satsuki, were new creations. They were outcroppings of embracing and attunement one's own elements and the world around them, not precisely prayers. Her head started hurting and finally, she shook it. "Forgive me, -samas, but I think the best way to help you understand the nature of how I, and those who walk a similar path that I do, can work with the elements is through a visible demonstration of the application. I will demonstrate for those of you present a technique that was developed by my order based upon my recollections of the prayers of a unique woman named Shoji Haka. I cannot aspire to her capacities in embracing the Void, and yet this I can do."

She asked for a blindfold and began to stand in the middle of an open circle, assuming a martial stance and a collection of pebbles. "Come towards me, as quietly as you wish. I will cast a pebble each time I know where you are," she said. Every single time, with reflexive ease, the pebbles landed just in front of the people approaching some thirty feet away from her, without error. She seemed eerily aware of everyone around her.

When she began to explain what she felt, the sincerity of her words at least made it very clear that she didn't simply have very good instincts and hearing. No, this was something else entirely.

=======

Formulation of Theory - 7, Failure (haha, yeah, that fits. She has no clue how to explain this shit.)
Mystical Presentation - 26 w/ 1 Raise Called, 8 Directional Awareness, +2 Thesis Points
Defense of Thesis - 24 after Disturbing Countenance 2/ 1 Raise Called, Success +2 Thesis Points

Total Thesis Points: 4

"Air. Earth. Fire. Water. These are seen and felt all around you. But, it is what is unseen, and only felt in certain moments, that connects these elements to create our world." As Ryoshan Rei spoke, a small bamboo shaft appeared in her hand. "Like all of the elements the Void is within all of us, within all living things. It is instinct and inspiration. It is what drives us beyond our limits and empowers us to reach new heights. And, as it connects all elements, it connects each of us with one another."

She knew not to delve to deeply, when speaking of the Void. It's intangibleness made it difficult for many to appreciate more than the basic concept. Regardless, she had conveyed her thoughts clearly enough.

- - -
Elemental Discussions (D6. LM. Open: Player Event!), Lore: Elements (Void)/Intelligence, 3 CR, TN 30, VP for +1k1: 7d10ro1o10k4 33
Elemental Discussions (D6. LM. Open: Player Event!), Summon Earth, 2 CR, TN 25, VP for +1k1: 7d10o10k4 29
Elemental Discussions (D6. LM. Open: Player Event!), Courtier/Awareness, 1CR, TN 15, VP +1k1: 4d10o10k3 17

9 Thesis Points

"The kami are around us." She explained. The samurai ko still felt that time in which the kami had protected her without her call. The way that it had not been her call what moved the kami to help her. "Fire, Air, Earth, Water, Void. They surround us, they are part of this world in the same way we are, except that they have been here before us and will stay here after us." She paced herself around the area recalling, making connections of thoughts. "Like us humans, the kami have their own feelings and personality, but speaking to them, communing with them, showing them respect and favor, building up the relation with them has shown me that it can also help us get their favor, have them perform magic for us. We can act as a medium for the magic that already surrounds us."

-Elemental Discussions, Theory. One Raise, TN20: 38 - 2 Thesis Points
-Elemental Discussions, Presentation. 2 Raises, TN25: 53 +1 Free Raise Friend element, - 4 Thesis Points
-Elemental Discussions, Defense. 3 Raise, TN25: 30 - 4 Thesis Points

Total 10 Thesis points

Ayano was present but just observing the discussion.

-----------
Here but not participating

Sora (and his kids) showed up, but he wasn't about to waste anyone's time by pretending to be qualified to participate.

'' As many others have explained here...'' Yatsu began his own theory. '' The world is made out of five elements. These elements should not be seen as just innanimate objects, no. They have feelings and they have their own ways of living.'' He adds.

'' The power that a priest shows is not his own. So to speak, but rather is the power of the elemental kami, a spirit, in which it lends it power to us, channeling through the sacrifice of blood, in order to create certain effect. These effects are not just a creation in our reality, but they also have effects on the balance and harmony of the entire spiritual realms.'' He said making his point about the spiritual worlds.

'' Since the elements are all connected, and like other fellow atendees had said, everything is one and the same. Through the void, everything is connected and what actions we do in this realm, or in any other, also affects the entire balance. So caution and respect to the elements and their spiritual representatives should always be a priority.''

'' As an example, here, i can...'' Yatsu cut his hand, made a quick prayer and suddenly, wind, like a small vortex or tornado formed on his palm. '' Ask the elemental kami of air to form this effect, yet, this is not my power, but i'm only channeling it. One must always keep in mind that balance requires respect to the elements, unless we cause distraction on our minds causing dire consequences into the future.'' He closed his hand and the vortex dissipated.

He then bowed respectfully to those who listened to him, and returned to his previous spot, still listening and judging what other theories could come about.

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

[OOC-Rolls]

Lore:Spirit Realms/Intelligence, 1 CR, 1 VP - 32|Pass [TN20, 1 CR, 1VP]
Casting Spell: Summon (Air); 2 CR, +1k0 Tech, +1k0 Affinity - 34|Pass [TN25, 2CR]
Courtier/Awareness, 3CR - 40|Pass [TN25, 3 CR]

Results

9 Thesis points (They do not count as a co-sponsor)
2/3 void points left
7/10 Wounds (+0)

"With the needs of the people being taken care of more consistently, shugenja are asked far less to use their magic to solve basic problems in a village. Now that doesn't mean that we shouldn't still be judicious with our gifts, but it does mean that future generations will have the opportunity to learn techniques more advanced than any we have seen before." With that, she uses her magic to conjure an aroma that is of a hard to find plant with enough intensity where the room can smell it. "Now more than ever is the time for cooperation to find new spells for our posterity."

D6 LM: Casting Benten's Touch, TN 15, Affinity, Dutiful Disciple: 9d10o10k4 50 (Lasts an hour, 2 wounds)
D6 LM: Casting Fire Kami's Blessing, TN 10, Dutiful Disciple: 7d10o10k3 26 (Lasts an hour, 1 wound)
D6 LM: Lore:Shugenja/Intelligence, Sage, Fire Kami's Blessing, Base TN 15, 3 raises, TN 30, Void Point: 8d10o10k4 43 (4 points)
D6 LM: Practical Demonstration, Spellcasting/Air, TN 15 base, +3 raises, TN 30, Dutiful Disciple, Affinity: 9d10o10k4 37 (4 points, 4 wounds)
D6 LM: Defend Your Theory, Base TN 10, 3 raises, TN 25, Benten's Blessing: 8d10o10k5+4 37 (4 points)

12 points total

Kuu was there, and he participated in the discussion, but he much preferred learning from the others their more full understanding of the elements in the external world. His understanding was mostly of his own internal elemental structure, so he did not wish to say too much on the subject as it was... subjective.

However, when it came time to demonstrate a kiho, he asked for volunteers. He didn't do a single demonstration because he had enough energy reserves to help a couple people that had participated using the power of their blood. He approached several of the shugenja after they had drawn blood for their demonstrations and performed his healing kiho on them, inducing improved healing energy through the transfer of chi into their pressure points.

With that demonstration of his actual personal understanding of energy as it can relate between people there wasn't much to defend and he didn't need to spare many words on it... simply explain the simple mechanics of it.

----

D6, LM, Formulate, Lore: Theology/Intelligence, TN 15: 5d10o10k3 23 +1 point
Demonstration: 1 point for spending void on kiho
D6, LM, Defend, Courtier/Awareness, 1 CR, TN 15: 5d10o10k3 43 +2 points
Total: 4 points

Additionally, up to 3 people who have wounds can be healed for up to 12 damage with Chi Protection

He had rushed through his bath this morning, as he had heard there would be a discussion this morning on the elements. A subject near and dear to his heart.

When he was given an opportunity to speak, he found his mouth stammering, unable to formulate his thoughts and present them in a reasonable manner. So, he shrugged, made a small slice on his left arm, and bent down, laying his hands on the ground.

His command of the Earth is clear and powerful. He can get it to do many things, that is immediately obvious.

However, when he is asked questions about his theory, he is unable to respond in time, having to think deeply, and making the judges move on, while he does so.
__________

Formulate Theory, Lore: Elements/Int, 2 Called Raises, TN 25: 22, fail.

Present Theory, practical, Summon Earth, Affinity, Dutiful Disciple, Friendly Kami, Innate Spell, 3 Called Raises, TN 30: 37

Defend Thesis, Courtier/Awa, TN 15: 5.

Total, 4 Thesis points.

In her quiet monotone, Yua followed on the teachings Rei had amply demonstrated, stressing that while the elemental kami were indeed separate and knowable entities, they, like everything and everyone, rested upon and were held together by the connections of the Void.

She'd have preferred to demonstrate the shifting of one element into another by rearranging those connections. Instead, she sought to call a small flame to her hand, only to find that, with Satsuki in the room, they were not so keen on coming to some nobody's call. After that, she felt a bit odd asserting her expertise terribly strongly, but it was obvious that she did deeply believe it.

********************************************
Formulate your theory
D6, LM Elemental Event: Formulate your theory Lore: Elements (Void)/Intelligence, VP, 3 CR, TN 30: 7d10ro1o10k4 32 4 points


Present your theory
D6, LM Elemental Event: Present your theory, Summon Fire, VP, 3CR, TN 30, Correct Dice Coding!: 7d10o10k4 27 fail
4 wounds


Defend your theory
D6, LM Elemental Event: Defend your theory, Sincerity/Awareness, TN 10: 5d10o10k3 23 1 point

5 Thesis points

"The spirit realms are filled with different elements. Each realm is connected by the line the void makes." She cleared her throat. "Ningendo seems to be the center where all the elements could join. Then the Ningen are composed of all the elements... but not just the ningen but the animals as well." She nodded. "but we ... we..." She started to find something to back her theory. "Ah yes... they are like the humans having earth, fire, water and air... void is a mysterious thing that join and decide what the creature will look like."


//D6 LM Lore Spirit Realms Int 1CR TN 20: 5d10o10k3 34'+2TP
D6 LM Spellcraft Int 1VP PhR 1CR TN 20: 5d10o10k3 190TP
D6 LM Defending argument Courtier Awa 1CR TN 20: 6d10o10k3 35 +2TP

As he had admitted to Satsuki, he really did not know much about magic, but it was still something he wished to show his interest in, as it was clearly something she was interested in. Susumu sticks to the academic principles he knows: documented cases of Nezumi impervious to Jigoku corruption during life that faded with death. Therefore, there must have been something inherent in the soul that held power. The process of bloodletting had been used in magic as long as remembered, and that energy was used as currency by the kami for the desired effect.

Unfortunately, his practical knowledge of the mechanics of this are nil and what comes out of his mouth is nonsensical.


______
Formulate and present: Elemental Discussions-Lore and Sellcraft/Intelligence-untrained-TN 15: 2#2d10 10 11 Both fail no points
Elemental Discussions-Defend-Courtier/Awarenes-3 raises-TN 30: 7d10o10k4 13 0 points

"I don't understand what an elemental spirit is.

Like, not at all.

I've watched shugenja in action. I've talked to them at length. I've studied texts broaching the subject from a widespread or focused point of view. I've meditated on that question, in temples, in nature, in my home.

And still, bewilderment. My mind cannot grasp that concept at all. It simply refuses to click. I can see the power of the spirits when a shugenja uses them, but I'm unable to picture there are invisible, intelligent entities manipulating that gust of wind, that splash of water. It feels like a... gremlin explanation. You know, when you lose a sock, and you blame it on a gremlin, a mysterious invisible mischievous monster, for lack of a real culprit?

My theory is thus that's the current concept of elemental Kami is a rough oversimplification. A spherical cow. It gives us some basics to work with and is useful in that regard, but only has a tenuous connection with reality."

---

D6LM | Elemental Discussions | Formulate your theory | Lore: Theology/Intelligence (TN15) | 4 Raises because why not (TN35) | VP for +1k1 | Tawagoto's Army: 6d10o10k4+4 33 -> Fail
D6LM | Elemental Discussions | Present your theory | Spellcraft/Intelligence (TN15) | Unskilled: 3d10 28 -> 1 point
D6LM | Elemental Discussions | Defend your theory | Courtier/Awareness (TN15) | No Raise: 4d10o10k3 30 -> 1 point

Total: 2 points

As the hour was drawing to a close, Satsuki rose from her seat to bow deeply to those gathered.

"Thank you all for your input, your words, and your efforts. And thank you to the most esteemed royal consort to have joined us today to listen in with us. Everyone today has given me and my companions much to think about, moving forward."

"We find Akodo Moshi-san of the Lion to have delivered her presentation most aptly and with much thought to her theories. Please accept this token of my appriciation for your efforts today." Accepting a box from Ko, Satsuki opened it to take out a scroll bound with a green silk ribbon with the mon of Togashi on it, presenting it to Moshi. "This scrolls contains some of the writings of my honored father, Lord Togashi-no-Kami of the Dragon Clan. Perhaps his wisdom will enlighten your path further."

"The words of Anjing Sagara-san of the Crab were also of interest, and we shall take her ideas into further consideration, as we appriciate the insight of our northern neighbours." Again, she retrieved a scroll from the box, this one bound with a similar silk ribbon, but with the mon of the Saru on it. She held it out for Sagara to take. "This scrolls is a copy of the writings of my honored mother, Lady Togashi Saruko of the Dragon Clan, and contains the philosophies she teaches her followers. I hope it will be of interest to you."

"Lastly, I want to thank my most honorable cousin, Lady Ryoshun Rei. I've always known you to be clever and wise, and I'm deeply honored you shared it with us today. The insight of the Ryoshun and the Bat will no doubt be of great help to us." Once more she reached into the box, and took out another scroll with a green ribbon, this one bearing the mon of the Wu. "This scroll is a copy of the writings of Lord Wu, founder of the Wu family of the Dragon Clan. Perhaps his thoughts and ideas will be helpful to you in return."

Once more she bowed to the gathering. "Thank you all once again for your time. I'm honored by how many chose to spend their times with us today."

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

Akodo Moshi - 12 points: is gifted with a scroll written by Togashi containing mysterious words of wisdom.
Anjing Sagara - 10 points: is rewarded a copy of the writings of Togashi Saruko.
Ryoshun Rei - 9 points: is rewarded with a copy of the writings of Wu.
--
Ryoshun Yua - 5 points
Bayushi Sasori - 4 points
Isawa Kyosei - 4 points
Kuu - 4 points
Nozomi - 4 points
Jiyo Ayumu - 2 points
Doji Hikaru - 1 point
------------------------- Everyone who scored a point gets a small token of appriciation in the form of two wagashi wrapped in paper.

Hisomu Susumu - 0 points: is given a consolation prize of dried and pressed sping-flowers and a wagashi.