Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Solos =&gt; Topic started by: MadPanda on 17-07-2006, 03:18:51</h2>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 03:18:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nexus.&nbsp; The very name of the city brings images to mind: greed, corruption, a bustling and diverse hive of commerce and crime, dirty and stinking and mad with confusion, where anything and everything may be bought and sold for the right price.&nbsp; It has a thousand nicknames, none of them polite.&nbsp; It is, they say, no place for the unwary.<br><br>Of the places least healthy for the unwary to walk, Nighthammer and Firewander districts are the worst.&nbsp; Perhaps the man in the front of a tiny skiff sliding amongst lumbering cargo barges toward the Nighthammer docks knows this: the bandage around his sightless eyes all but announces his infirmity to the world.&nbsp; And perhaps he does not care.<br><br>The boatman, a gaily dressed fellow with a crimson kerchief over his head, glides up against the dock as smoothly as you please.<br><br>"Here you are, Nighthammer docks...as you requested.&nbsp; Look, are you quite sure...I mean, you..."<br><br>He coughs and blushes.&nbsp; He's already said it and been overruled: this is not safe, stranger.&nbsp; And you're blind.&nbsp; Will you not reconsider?&nbsp; But his passenger paid well enough, and the man has been adamant.<br><br>"We're here.&nbsp; I wish you the best of luck.&nbsp; May the gods watch over you, my friend."<br><br>Waiting until his passenger carefully disembarks, taking his meager belongings with him, the boatman pushes off, shaking his head...and leaving a blind man behind him.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 03:53:08</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The man stepped carefully off the boat.&nbsp; The bandage did indeed give away his infirmity, and made the oversized sword strapped to his back look just for show.&nbsp; Especially since it seemed impossible for anyone but a giant to wield.&nbsp; But it was not for show.<br><br>True, he could not see the decay and squalor around him.&nbsp; But he could hear his footsteps echo down the path.&nbsp; He could feel each loose pebble beneath his sandles.&nbsp; He couldn't tell whether the buildings around him were rusty brown or ash grey, but he could tell just about everything else.<br><br>The greatest mystery about him, why he would come to such a place as this, he himself only half knew.&nbsp; He didn't know for sure that his father was after him, but this seemed a highly unlikely place for him to look.&nbsp; So, this is where he went.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 04:10:10</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Gruff exclamations of surprise and alarm reach his ears almost at once: a blind man?&nbsp; On the docks?&nbsp; Stevedores and boatmen make room quickly enough--some cursing, others uttering quick prayers to this god or that, still others just confused.&nbsp; Through it all, the humdrum of business as usual continues...and underneath that, the machine noises of the factories and mills that huddle throughout the district.<br><br>Soon enough, the traveller makes his way from the docks, but the narrow streets and alleyways beyond are no quieter.&nbsp; Children playing, arguments, animals barking or yowling...more than one urchin approaches him to offer a guide, a meal, a woman.&nbsp; Somewhere up ahead, he hears another argument all to clearly:<br><br>"Let me go!"&nbsp; A girl's voice, or a young woman's.&nbsp; She does not call for help?<br><br>"Come on, pretty!&nbsp; Just a kiss for me and my friends..."&nbsp; Male laughter, ugly and pregnant with the promise of violence, follows this comment.<br><br>"Please, no!"<br><br>The girl is near panic...perhaps there is no help to be had.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 04:56:06</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				He knows all too well where that argument will go, and he would prefer not to hear it.&nbsp; Quickening his steps a bit, he takes the quickest path to the conflict.<br><br>As he walks, he gets a feel for the terrain and how it will affect a fight.&nbsp; He listens to pick out how many men are present and where, and which is the alpha of the pack.&nbsp; He listens to them shuffle their steps, trying to tell which leg they favor, who is carrying what sort of weaponry, and how quickly they could escape.&nbsp; By the time he arrives, he is ready.<br><br>Placing one hand on the shoulder of the leader from behind, he speaks in his normal voice.&nbsp; "I do not think she wishes to favor you with a kiss, my friend.&nbsp; Perhaps you should be on your way."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 05:29:29</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				There are three of them, common thugs all by the sound of it.<br><br>"Mind your own fucking business," is the leader's comment upon being addressed.<br><br>"Piss off, you fool," says one.&nbsp; "She's ours."<br><br>"Yeah," the third chimes in.&nbsp; "Piss off and fuck your own...I mean mind your own..."&nbsp; Obviously the third is not the brightest of souls.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 05:45:53</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The slight smile didn't waver at all.<br><br>"I'm afraid I can't let that happen, my friends.&nbsp; Why not find a girl who will service you all for a nominal charge and leave this one alone?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 06:10:08</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				There is a moment of silence as the three toughs try to work their brains around this concept.&nbsp; Then the thug-in-chief decides this is way too much thinking and gives a simple, straightforward, basic order to his two chums:<br><br>"Fuck this!&nbsp; Kill him."<br><br>And both of them lunge at the blind man...<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 06:26:41</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				It only took a moment.<br><br>The golden blade arced quickly through the air, cleaving the leader in half along the first stroke.&nbsp; The sword continued down, slicing across the second thug's chest.&nbsp; The swordsman turned as he swung the blade back up, taking off the last thug's head.&nbsp; At the top of the curve, he bent his wrist, sliding the sword silently into the sheath on his back.<br><br>He then faced the girl, his smile still there but showing concern.&nbsp; "Are you alright?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 15:19:01</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The girl gives a squeaking gasp.<br><br>"You...oh, my!"<br><br>And then faints dead away, perhaps overcome by mingled relief and shock at her bloody rescue.&nbsp; The sound of many running feet approaching from all sides now reaches his ears.&nbsp; Surely the tension would grow thicker and angrier if not for the cry of a lone street urchin:<br><br>"That was soooo <em>COOL</em>!!!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 16:15:01</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				He quickly reached out and caught the girl as she fainted, the close contact giving him an opportunity to feel how she looks, especially her figure.&nbsp; He was blind, but he wasn't dead.<br><br>As the crowd rushed over, he tried to keep his gentle smile.&nbsp; "Excuse me folks, but could someone direct me to a tavern or inn?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 16:48:56</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				A small and childlike hand clutches at his sleeve.<br><br>"Yeah, come on!&nbsp; I'll show you!&nbsp; That was so cool!&nbsp; I mean, they...and you...wow!"&nbsp; Much giggling follows, along with various astonished or impressed mutterings among the crowd.&nbsp; Not everybody's happy about this (the other gang members are apparently likely to ask a lot of ugly questions) but none of the assembled residents are about to pester him.<br><br>It takes a few minutes, and several repetitions of 'almost there' and 'not too much further' before the helpful child halts and knocks on a door.<br><br>"Yes?&nbsp; Oh.&nbsp; It's you, again."&nbsp; An old man's voice answers the door.&nbsp; "What is it?"<br><br>"This guy!&nbsp; He took out three of Matti's thugs and saved <em>onechan</em>!"<br><br>"Did he."<br><br>"Yep!&nbsp; It was so cool!"<br><br>There is a quiet grunt, possibly even an impressed one.&nbsp; Then the old man sighs.&nbsp; "Well, come on in, who-ever you are.&nbsp; The least we can do is offer you a meal and a space for the night, if you need one."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 17:01:06</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: Onechan?)<br><br>The swordsman nodded gently.&nbsp; "Thank you, sir, I would be honored."<br><br>Carrying the girl inside carefully, he kept his ears open to discern the room, its furnishings, its occupants, and especially if there was an ambush waiting inside.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 17:08:19</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: it means big sister, but in this context the urchin simply means that the rescuee is older and female, but not old enough to be called 'auntie'.&nbsp; I believe the usage is correct...)<br><br>The old man harrumphs.<br><br>"Not 'sir'.&nbsp; Just Ganesh.&nbsp; And no 'venerable,' either!&nbsp; I'm not that old."&nbsp; He gives a wheezing chuckle.<br><br>"You're older, you ancient pervert!"<br><br>"Quiet, Trouble!&nbsp; And see to his lady friend."<br><br>"Okay, Pops."<br><br>"And no pinching her things this time, you young scallywag!"&nbsp; The scamper of little feet and a giggle is his only answer to this.&nbsp; "Children!&nbsp; I knew there's a reason I avoided having any..."<br><br>Once inside, the smell of varnish and sawdust hangs in the air.&nbsp; The elder helps him to a low couch.<br><br>"So, stranger, what really brings you to my humble abode?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 17:18:43</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: I believe it's spelled oniichan, heh.)<br><br>He took the seat gratefully, but kept his attention on the young boy and the girl, to make sure nothing inappropriate was done.<br><br>"I'm just a simple wanderer, hoping for a place to rest while I'm in Nexus.&nbsp; The young lad brought me here when I asked for a tavern or inn.&nbsp; Is the girl alright?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 17:26:39</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC Romanization varies.&nbsp; 'Oniechan' would be 'big brother'...I'm <em>all too</em> familiar with that one.&nbsp; Long story&nbsp; ;) )<br><br>"Hmm?&nbsp; Which one?&nbsp; Oh, you mean...yes, your friend should be all right.&nbsp; She probably just fainted.&nbsp; We'll have her on her way soon enough, I suppose."<br><br>A soft rasping sound indicates that he's rubbing his chin thoughtfully.<br><br>"I can tell you that this is not an inn.&nbsp; I'm but a humble cabinet maker.&nbsp; If you'd like, I can have someone more reliable than my ward direct you?&nbsp; But you're still welcome to stay the night, if you like."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 17:32:38</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: I'll check my textbooks later, heh.<br><br>Edit: My book says that it's oneesan.&nbsp; Ah well, that's what I get for not studying for... god, years.&nbsp; I suck.)<br><br>"I would hate to put you out, but I do not much fancy my chances of finding an honest inn I could afford...."&nbsp; He was rarely above charity in his travels; a more anachronistic person might say he always relies on the kindness of strangers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 17:40:28</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC Like I said, romanization differs&nbsp; ;)&nbsp; Don't ya love standardization?)<br><br>Ganesh grunts.<br><br>"Fair enough.&nbsp; You'll want to be careful moving about, though.&nbsp; My handiwork is often fragile."<br><br>Soft footfalls herald the return of the urchin.<br><br>"Okay, Pops, she's resting.&nbsp; Is he staying here?"<br><br>"For now, I believe so.&nbsp; Behave yourself."<br><br>"Awwwww...."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 17:46:03</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"I shall tread lightly, don't worry."<br><br>He turned his attention to the urchin again.&nbsp; "Is she awake?&nbsp; I must admit, I'm quite curious about who exactly I rescued."&nbsp; He gave a slight chuckle, feeling the material of the couch with one hand, trying to get a sense of how expensive it was and, by extension, how well off the owner is.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 17:54:02</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"I dunno.&nbsp; Onechan's just resting.&nbsp; She had a bad scare."<br><br>The couch has a roughly woven cover, possibly homespun.&nbsp; It's padded well enough, but it's definitely not a luxury item.<br><br>"I did find this on her..."&nbsp; Something clinks in a distinctly metallic fashion.<br><br>"Trouble!"<br><br>"Pops!&nbsp; I was going to give it <em>back</em>..."<br><br>"Let me see it, then...ah.&nbsp; It appears the young lady is...uhm...well, now.&nbsp; This is awkard.&nbsp; Trouble, go fetch our guest some small wine."<br><br>"Yeah, okay!"&nbsp; Exit one dejected urchin, who clearly knows a dismissal when given one.<br><br>"Your damsel in distress is apprenticed to a local guild.&nbsp; We'd best take her back to one of the local shops before they assume the worst."&nbsp; There's something the old man is trying very hard not to say.&nbsp; "Curious, though.&nbsp; Why would thugs...ah, but they were Matti's.&nbsp; The fool thinks blood is better for business.&nbsp; We'll have to be careful."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>17-07-2006, 18:01:19</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm afraid I don't quite understand..."<br><br>With casual but fast movement, the blind man took the metallic token and felt it in his hand to see what it was.<br><br>(OOC: I should be able to tell the shape of things by hearing at least, heh.&nbsp; Also, I'm headed to class now, so you've got some time to craft a really great explanatory post. ;) No pressure!&nbsp; I'll be back demanding more posts around 4 PM eastern.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 03:54:17</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The medallion, or whatever it is, is round, heavy, cool to the touch.&nbsp; It fits easily into the palm of his hand.&nbsp; There's some sort of writing engraved on it, but the script is unfamiliar.&nbsp; The reverse side definitely has a small bas-relief of a full-breasted figure on it.<br><br>"Yes, well," the old man coughs.&nbsp; "She's a harlot.&nbsp; I imagine she was going about the business of her house when she was accosted.&nbsp; Such a pity...but they usually have bodyguards.&nbsp; I wonder what happened?"<br><br>There's a subtle tone to his voice--he's merely making conversation to fill the empty spaces until the one called Trouble returns...which doesn't take too much longer.<br><br>"Here ya go," that cheerful voice pipes up, taking one hand and pressing a mug into it.&nbsp; "Only small wine, though.&nbsp; It's barely fermented."<br><br>"Thank you, Trouble."&nbsp; The old man's voice makes it clear that he is <em>not</em> thanking the child for mentioning too much information.<br><br>"Don't mention it, Pops."&nbsp; And the child knows it, apparently...and doesn't care.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 03:57:32</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The man took a small sip from the mug, sure in his own mind that he has tasted worse before.<br><br>"Perhaps she'll be good enough to inform us when she is up and around."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 04:00:39</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				The stuff in the mug is suprisingly good...strangely good.&nbsp; This isn't the weak and watery stuff that 'small wine' implies!&nbsp; How odd.<br><br>"I'm sure she will.&nbsp; But until she is feeling better, friend, take your ease.&nbsp; Trouble..."<br><br>"Yeah, yeah.&nbsp; Make myself scarce and behave.&nbsp; I know, I know."&nbsp; The child sighs and departs again.<br><br>"You will have to excuse her.&nbsp; I've done my best, but Nighthammer is no place for a child, let alone an ill-favored one of uncertain parentage.&nbsp; Now, what shall we discuss while we wait?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 04:08:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am afraid I am not learned in many topics, and I am a stranger in Nexus, so I'm not sure what I could ably discuss."<br><br>He clearly didn't bring up the giant sword on his back, or how he so easily dispatched three thugs, or how he could do so blind.&nbsp; His tone was still friendly and casual.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 16:02:53</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				There passes an uncomfortable silence as both men try to think of something to say.<br><br>"So...what brings you to Nexus?&nbsp; The usual reasons?&nbsp; Perhaps I might suggest a few...uhm...I do know a few people.&nbsp; I should, having lived here my entire life."<br><br>The old man shifts awkwardly.<br><br>"You would seem to know something about the arts of war."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 16:18:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I would not mind meeting new people, I am here to see the sights after all, as it were."<br><br>The man's smile didn't waver when the old man brought up warfare.<br><br>"I doubt anyone could fault me for being able to defend myself, what with the world as it is.&nbsp; I may be blind, but I'm not daft."&nbsp; He chuckled softly, almost to himself.<br><br>(OOC: We can skip ahead some if you want.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 18:56:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				After a brief and halting period of awkward small talk, the young woman rouses herself and, led by the child named Trouble, presents herself to thank both her rescuer and her host.&nbsp; Giving her name as 'Desireable Blossom of Innocence, she takes her leave, refusing all escort.<br><br>"A pleasant young woman, no doubt sent on some important errand," Ganesh murmurs after she has gone.&nbsp; "Trouble?"<br><br>"Yeah, Pops, I got it.&nbsp; 'Keep an eye on her'."&nbsp; The pitter-patter of little feet scurries away.<br><br>"This city...my young friend, would you be at all averse to an arrangement?&nbsp; I know a few people who might value your skills highly and who would be quite understanding about your need to avoid attention."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 22:44:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Though the small talk was nothing of concern, the man was rather disappointed with the curt thanks and early departure.&nbsp; Usually he didn't get treatment like that until people suspected he was more than just a blind swordsman.<br><br>"That depends on the arrangement.&nbsp; I'm not averse to mercenary work, so long as it is not overly... distasteful...."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>18-07-2006, 22:48:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"No, not...mercenary, exactly.&nbsp; Bodyguarding.&nbsp; Although I suppose, yes, there could be some mercenary aspects to it.&nbsp; Nothing distasteful, I think.&nbsp; Danger, yes...digging into old sites and the like."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 01:58:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The mention of old sites definitely aroused his interest.&nbsp; In the First Age, Nexus was supposedly a capital of the Solar empire on a par with the Blessed Isle.&nbsp; If he could find any old artifacts or documents, he might better understand what he'd become.&nbsp; He still didn't feel particularly evil, despite his swordsmanship.<br><br>"That sounds interesting.&nbsp; I think it might suit me for a time."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 05:21:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Excellent!&nbsp; I'll make arrangements and introduce you as soon as I can...tomorrow, hopefully.&nbsp; For now, take your ease!"<br><br>Chuckling softly, the old man tops of the wine.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 17:16:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The man didn't drink anymore wine, not wanting to put his host out or lose his wits.<br><br>"Thank you.&nbsp; I think for now I'd best get some sleep, it was a long trip here."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 17:35:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Good, good.&nbsp; You rest.&nbsp; Oh!&nbsp; But let me help you to our guest room."<br><br>The old man gives him a hand up, leading him to a musty-smelling cell.<br><br>"It is less than modest, I'm afraid, but the only other option is letting you sleep with Trouble, and you probably wish to keep your valuables," he chuckles dryly.<br><br>"Please do not hesitate to ask if you require anything."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-07-2006, 17:42:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Thank you very much."<br><br>He closed the door, not voicing his thoughts about sleeping with Trouble, and quietly disrobed and got into bed.&nbsp; After making sure his sword was within arm's reach, he let himself drift off to sleep, trusting as always in his ears and bare skin to warn him of intruders.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 04:32:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A few days later...<br><br>Her name is Sumire, just Sumire.&nbsp; She's a Southerner, from a place called Chiaroscuro...and she's Dereth, whatever that means.&nbsp; She's also paying the bills.&nbsp; That means that the rickety-sounding cart he's now riding is hers, as are the tools concealed under the tarp next to him.&nbsp; He's also the only guard for this tiny group--himself, her, and three other menials, one of whom is driving the cart.&nbsp; The other two are just laborers.<br><br>Old Ganesh wasn't too clear on the details, but apparently this woman is some sort of grave robber.&nbsp; She calls herself a 'scholar'.&nbsp; The difference is likely hard to measure.&nbsp; And while she hasn't given any hint of her destination, other than the direction ('east and a bit north, away from the river'), the others are clearly nervous.<br><br>The countryside smells of compost and ashes.&nbsp; Old, fallow fields are being burned and fertilized.&nbsp; Occasionally, he can hear the cries of local farmers hailing the cart.&nbsp; Sumire invariably responds, sounding falsely cheerful.&nbsp; Finally, she calls a halt and barks orders like a soldier.<br><br>"Make camp.&nbsp; We continue in the morning...the swordsman and I, that is.&nbsp; You three remain here."<br><br>The three laborers scramble to obey her.&nbsp; She dismounts her horse, leads it over by the rear of the cart.<br><br>"What did the old man tell you about this jorney," she asks Zatoichi quietly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 05:09:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zatoichi kept his slight smile and answered just as quietly.<br><br>"Nothing I could not have known by now by my own observations.&nbsp; We are going to excavate a site from a previous Age.&nbsp; You're more than a mere scholar.&nbsp; You could probably fight off random bandits or wild animals yourself, if properly equipped, but you need a bodyguard either because you lack the equipment or you expect something worse than random bandits or wild animals.&nbsp; Or perhaps both.&nbsp; How am I doing so far?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 05:14:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Fair enough," Sumire laughs.&nbsp; "And you've even guessed where we're going.&nbsp; So I probably won't need to tell you why you and I are the only ones going in.&nbsp; Except that the real reason that you're going with me is because you won't get lost in the fog."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 05:19:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He couldn't help but chuckle.&nbsp; "And here I thought it was because I was blind and couldn't report the location to anyone else."&nbsp; He, of course, didn't say that he actually could if he wanted to.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 05:23:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh, I'm not too worried about that.&nbsp; As close as it is to Nexus, the location's well known.&nbsp; As well known are the problems with getting closer than two leagues to the place!&nbsp; There's some heavy duty protections on the place.&nbsp; I just want to get closer...at least for now."&nbsp; She laughs softly.&nbsp; "The next to impossible we do now.&nbsp; The impossible, we do in a few days."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 05:28:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"If you don't mind my asking, what are these protections you speak of?"&nbsp; If it was a simple Solar Essence seal, he could get inside himself and have a chance to explore alone....
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 05:34:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"That's why I want to get closer, to find out just what they are.&nbsp; Oh, there's the unnatural fog for about two leagues in every direction.&nbsp; That's bad enough, but the marsh makes it a bit worse...and rumor has it the dead walk around in there and ambush bold explorers.&nbsp; There might even be a few spells linked to wards if we get to the center.&nbsp; Won't know for sure until we reach it."<br><br>She claps him on the shoulder lightly.<br><br>"Which I'm pretty sure we will.&nbsp; They've tried to go in with blind men before.&nbsp; But so far as I know, they've never tried with a blind <em>swordsman</em>.&nbsp; Fog won't confuse you, the undead won't scare you, and Ganesh swears you're damn good with that blade."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 05:38:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiled.&nbsp; "Well then, I am ready when you are."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 05:48:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Tomorrow, then.&nbsp; Rest up."<br><br>The next morning, she shakes him awake.<br><br>"Feel like a little walk?"<br><br>A 'little walk' feels more like a league or so, uphill most of the way, over a poorly maintained trail.&nbsp; Finally, Sumire calls for a halt.&nbsp; Here Zatoichi can feel a cool, clammy breeze that smells like swampland: water and decay and who knows what else?<br><br>"We're nearly at the edge of the fog.&nbsp; In theory, we need only walk for about six miles until we reach the center of this mess.&nbsp; How do you feel?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 05:57:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He had kept his smile throughout the day of walking, not once stumbling or hesitating.<br><br>"I've walked six miles and then some before.&nbsp; Don't worry, I'll not fall behind."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 06:04:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Good.&nbsp; Now we just need to hope that the mist hasn't expanded.&nbsp; Or worse.&nbsp; My life will be in your hands, swordsman.&nbsp; Try not to lose it, hmm?"<br><br>The stroll downhill is brisk.&nbsp; Soon enough, the air turns as cool and clammy as the breeze, and the smells and sounds of the marsh close around them.&nbsp; Shortly after that, the air turns even more chilly...<br><br>"Th-thi-this is new..."&nbsp; Sumire notes.&nbsp; "The b-b-books said n-nothing about c-cold!"<br><br>And then, clear as a bell, Zatoichi can hear a flute playing somewhere nearby...deeper in the marsh.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 06:08:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It is an unnatural cold, some spell or enchantment I imagine..."<br><br>He paused, listening to the music for a few seconds.<br><br>"Do you hear the flute?&nbsp; Music is playing, deeper in the marsh.&nbsp; Whether it is causing the cold or just another apparition to accompany it, I could not say.&nbsp; In either case, we had best press on."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 15:03:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"What flute?&nbsp; I don't hear anything beyond...well, you and me and whatever's out there..."<br><br>She shudders.<br><br>"This better be worth the trouble, I tell you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 18:27:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He put a comforting hand on her shoulder.<br><br>"Do you wish to turn back now?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 18:32:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"No way!&nbsp; Not when I'm so close to finding...we press on.&nbsp; Besides, it's just cold and eerie.&nbsp; It isn't like we've got walking dead or hungry ghosts to worry about."<br><br>She doesn't say 'yet' but somehow Zatoichi knows she's thinking it.<br><br>"We just keep pushing.&nbsp; Maybe if we can find the thing that generates the fog we can...turn it off, maybe.&nbsp; Or something."<br><br>But just then his ears prick up--there's an odd noise in the woods, a klickety-clacking followed by a grunting growl.&nbsp; An animal, perhaps?&nbsp; It sounds like it's a ways off, still.<br><br>And the flute plays on, weaving strands of hauntingly beautiful music.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 20:17:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"There's an animal, fairly far away.&nbsp; I can't tell what kind."<br><br>Regardless, he led on through the fog, carefully moving inward toward the marsh (and flute).
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 21:00:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The deeper into the fog and marsh the two go, the louder and more frequent those annoying noises become.&nbsp; After what feels like a twenty minute eternity, Sumire gasps.<br><br>"Oh, damn...better draw!"<br><br>Zatoichi can sense that they've entered an open space...and there's a number of somethings in here, moving toward them.<br><br>(OOC Whee! Combat!&nbsp; My notes are mostly at home, but these are your garden variety undead cannon fodder.&nbsp; See how many you can whack in a round.&nbsp; There's no way short of botching initiative that you're going to lose that...)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 21:09:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(Now watch me do just that!<br><br>Also I haven't used Diceserv before so I could foul it up.<br><br>Roll Result: CirclMastr rolled: 1d10<br>Comment:<br>Result: 8,<br>Total: 8<br><br>Plus 7 init for 15.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 21:14:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC Is no botch.&nbsp; Go for it, dude.)<br><br>There is the unmistakeable sound of Sumire's blade clearing her scabbard.<br><br>"Come on, you freaks!"<br><br>And, by the sound, more of them are shambling into position behind you, blocking your retreat.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 21:17:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: How many are there?&nbsp; If I can reasonably kill them all without using Essence, that would be preferable.&nbsp; Don't want to have to blow precious resources on undead cannon fodder.&nbsp; But the rules for splitting dice pools are brutal.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 21:25:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC At least six...with another four to your rear.&nbsp; They aren't all going to arrive at once...three, three, two and two most likely.&nbsp; Plus there's Sumire.&nbsp; She can account for one.&nbsp; Or two.&nbsp; If the dice server is kind.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 21:53:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Leaping forward, Zatoichi easily slid his blade from its sheath on his back to meet the undead approaching.&nbsp; Keeping his weight on one side, he swung the sword in a wide arc, cutting through a trio of the creatures.<br><br>(OOC: Rolls!&nbsp; If it works.<br><br>Attack #1:<br>Roll Result: CirclMastr rolled: 8d10<br>First Target Number: 7<br>Second Target Number: 10<br>Comment:<br>Result: 8, 3, 8, 9, 1, 3, 1, 6,<br>For: 1, 1, 1, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,<br>Total: 3<br><br>Attack #2:<br>Roll Result: CirclMastr rolled: 7d10<br>First Target Number: 7<br>Second Target Number: 10<br>Comment:<br>Result: 4, 8, 5, 8, 8, 2, 10,<br>For: 2, 1, 1, 1, 0, 0, 0,<br>Total: 5<br><br>Attack #3:<br>Roll Result: CirclMastr rolled: 6d10<br>First Target Number: 7<br>Second Target Number: 10<br>Comment:<br>Result: 10, 4, 3, 7, 1, 5,<br>For: 2, 1, 0, 0, 0, 0,<br>Total: 3<br><br>10L base damage against each, should all be down.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-07-2006, 21:59:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Behold, Zombie Kibble!<br><br>Behind him, there is an ugly scrunching noise as Sumire's short and heavy blade puts one of the undead out of commission...and a clanging noise as she deftly parries an attack from the remaining shambler.<br><br>"I think...we want to move from here...quickly!"<br><br>(OOC: Let me know if you end up using any Essence.&nbsp; ;D )
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 05:46:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He easily turned and cut down the shambler near the scholar.<br><br>(OOC: Roll Result: CirclMastr rolled: 11d10<br>First Target Number: 7<br>Second Target Number: 10<br>Comment:<br>Result: 9, 1, 8, 10, 3, 2, 5, 2, 1, 9, 1,<br>For: 2, 1, 1, 1, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0,<br>Total: 5<br><br>Yeah, I would say it's more kibble.)<br><br>"I can handle it, just stay close and stay calm."&nbsp; He didn't want to have to rush into terrain he hasn't scouted out yet, and he definitely didn't want her running blindly away.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 19:36:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm perfectly calm, thank you!"<br><br>No, she isn't...and her voice betrays her with every syllable.<br><br>More clicks and grunts as the next wave shambles forward.<br><br>(OOC: new initiative!&nbsp; Oh, who cares...you've got it.&nbsp; Kill undead stuff&nbsp; ;D )
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 19:48:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Just stay with me!"&nbsp; As the next wave of undead approached, Zatoichi's sword swung almost invisibly through the fog, taking them down left and right.<br><br>(Rolls...<br>Roll Result: CirclMastr rolled: 8d10<br>First Target Number: 7<br>Second Target Number: 10<br>Comment: <br>Result: 6, 2, 9, 8, 4, 4, 1, 5, <br>For: 1, 1, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, <br>Total: 2<br><br>Roll Result: CirclMastr rolled: 7d10<br>First Target Number: 7<br>Second Target Number: 10<br>Comment: <br>Result: 9, 1, 5, 4, 2, 7, 6, <br>For: 1, 1, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, <br>Total: 2<br><br>Roll Result: CirclMastr rolled: 6d10<br>First Target Number: 7<br>Second Target Number: 10<br>Comment: <br>Result: 4, 1, 2, 3, 9, 5, <br>For: 1, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, <br>Total: 1<br><br>Jeez, where'd all my dice go?&nbsp; It's still 10L damage with just 1 success, at least.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 19:50:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The next wave of three almost falls to pieces without an effort...leaving only the last two for Sumire.<br><br>There is a satisfying 'crunch' noise as her chopping sword crushes another undead skull, followed by a furious parry that just barely succeeds...<br><br>"Go now?&nbsp; Move?&nbsp; Good idea..." she pants.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 20:00:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(Roll:<br>Roll Result: CirclMastr rolled: 11d10<br>First Target Number: 7<br>Second Target Number: 10<br>Comment: <br>Result: 1, 9, 3, 1, 9, 4, 1, 6, 1, 4, 7, <br>For: 1, 1, 1, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, <br>Total: 3<br><br>Look at all those damn 1's.&nbsp; Ah well.)<br><br>After cutting down the last of the creatures, he paused and listened.&nbsp; "I don't hear any more.&nbsp; We're safe now."<br><br>Putting the blade back in its sheath, he smiled and gently gave her a pat on the shoulder.&nbsp; "Better to stay on ground you know than blindly run away.&nbsp; Just stay close to me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 20:08:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sumire pauses.&nbsp; There's another crunching noise...sounds like she's giving the fallen a good boot to the head to keep them down permanently.<br><br>"Yeah.&nbsp; Good point.&nbsp; Lead on."&nbsp; She doesn't sound so confident anymore.&nbsp; Maybe it's a good think he can't see.<br><br>For the next little while, the two of them make their way through the marsh.&nbsp; Every so often Sumire complains that it's getting darker...or that she can see things in the mist...and periodically the noises repeat, but never come closer.&nbsp; It's almost as if, having attacked once, the undead denizens of this unpleasant place are biding their time.<br><br>The flute starts up again after a while.&nbsp; It sounds close, but Sumire still doesn't seem to hear it.&nbsp; Very curious.<br><br>Suddenly, Sumire cries out.<br><br>"The fog!&nbsp; It...it lifted!&nbsp; And...oh, wow!&nbsp; It's huge!&nbsp; Too bad you can't...uhm...it's a stepped pyramid.&nbsp; A big one.&nbsp; And there's a door in one side.&nbsp; Hang on...let me get my notes."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 20:19:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: Just a reminder, I should be able to 'see' all this with the Acute Sense: Hearing.&nbsp; And if I can't, it's a big clue that it's an illusion and I'd like to warn Sumire. &gt;_&gt; heh)<br><br>"I'm still rather nervous that you can't hear the flute.&nbsp; It's a fair bit closer than it was before."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 20:25:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				What Zatoichi can sense is, yes, some sort of large structure, vaguely pyramid shaped.&nbsp; It doesn't seem to be an illusion.<br><br>And the flute is a LOT louder here.<br><br>Sumire manages to get a loosely bound book out of her pack.&nbsp; Her voice is no longer frightened--instead she's practically bubbling over with excitement.&nbsp; It's as if she just found the discovery of a lifetime...which, considering what it took to get in here, might not be so far from the truth.<br><br>"I need a closer look.&nbsp; There should be carvings by the door...historical narrative, maybe even a clue to what's in there.&nbsp; It's supposed to be an Anathema of some sort."<br><br>The flute abruptly stops.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 20:30:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"The flute stopped.&nbsp; I don't think it liked being called Anathema.&nbsp; Try calling it Solar instead."<br><br>Moving closer to the pyramid, it took quite a bit for Zatoichi to contain himself.&nbsp; He wanted to see the carving and writing, and if there was an actual person like him inside, he might learn a lot....<br><br>(OOC: I just realized I didn't pick out my... I dunno, 9 languages or something, but obviously High Realm and Old Realm are included, heh.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 20:45:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: Acute Hearing doesn't seem to cover purely visual information, like writing.&nbsp; I'm unsure how well he'd be able to read a bas-relief in stone...one the one hand, he'd know there's something there, but fine details might easily be drowned by background 'clutter')<br><br>Sumire gets right to work, poring over the images.&nbsp; While she talks as she works, it's largely to herself...and while a picture emerges, it takes at least an hour to assemble enough details to get a good idea of what's going on.&nbsp; To summarize:<br><br>There's a lot of carvings about a dragon, or at least a serpentine creature of some sort, that had a number of daughters.&nbsp; It isn't too clear whether this tomb is the father's or instead holds one of the daughters...but what <em>is</em> clear is that the serpent thing was a little upset with the Usurpation.&nbsp; So upset that it called a curse down on the territory, leaving the corpses of the Terrestrials and mortals who were slain in battle against the inhumed person to guard it for all time...<br><br>"...until a child of the Sun shall rise and free them.&nbsp; That's what it says here, anyway.&nbsp; I think.&nbsp; Huh.&nbsp; Child of the Sun.&nbsp; Would that be one of those Anathema...what're they called?&nbsp; Oh, right.&nbsp; Solars.&nbsp; So what in Creation's a Sidereal?&nbsp; The builder had a lot of...uhm..."<br><br>Sumire clears her throat.<br><br>"I just thought of something.&nbsp; These carvings must've been made <em>after</em> the curse."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 20:49:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: Acute Sense: Touch covers thee writing, heh.&nbsp; As long as he can touch it, obviously.&nbsp; If push comes to shove, he could try tapping on the wall to get stronger vibrations from the wall to 'see' it better with his ears.&nbsp; If that gets me anything more about the carvings, I'll hold off on replying until I have more info, heh.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 20:54:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: Okay.&nbsp; Sumire's summary is pretty much what you'd get, in any case.&nbsp; It's like trying to read a Mayan tomb wall mural.&nbsp; Even the experts have fits, sometimes&nbsp; ;D )
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 21:05:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"A lot of what?"<br><br>He thought a few moments.&nbsp; "Sidereal roughly means 'of the stars'... so maybe it's some sort of stargazer or astrologist?&nbsp; And, if the carvings were made after the curse, someone must have been around to carve it.&nbsp; Do you think the Solar inside is still alive?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 21:18:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sumire coughs again, quite nervously.<br><br>"I don't know.&nbsp; But this means that someone had to come back through that...twice...to carve out..."<br><br>She shifts.<br><br>"Leaving aside the question of 'do we want to open this' I'd have to say the bigger challenge before us is...'how do we open it'?&nbsp; There's a big circle mosaic of a sunburst right in front of the door, but..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 21:20:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Let me see..."<br><br>Stepping toward the door, he reached out and ran his hands over the mosaic, examining it carefully.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 21:25:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It's a giant sunburst.&nbsp; Not terribly remarkable, except that it's in the middle of nowhere on a 'lost' tomb with a weird security system...but Zatoichi can 'see' that there's a carved sunburst right over the doorway, at the top of the arch.&nbsp; Maybe they're connected?<br><br>The radius of the mosaic sunburst seems familiar somehow.<br><br>"Even if we had an Anathema around, how would they...how do you prove something like that?&nbsp; Maybe there's a lingering spell or something.&nbsp; A device or something that would respond to them..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 21:28:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hmm..."<br><br>Still feeling the mosaic, he quietly channeled a bit of Essence into the sunburst, hoping it would open the seal.<br><br>(OOC: 1 mote of Personal essence.&nbsp; No anima, no clue, and if it opens he plans to say he must have accidentally hit some sort of trigger.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 21:44:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Nothing happens...<br><br>(OOC Int plus Lore, please&nbsp; ;D )
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 22:00:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC:<br>Roll Result: CirclMastr rolled: 6d10<br>First Target Number: 7<br>Second Target Number: 10<br>Comment:<br>Result: 10, 4, 6, 8, 2, 8,<br>For: 2, 1, 1, 0, 0, 0,<br>Total: 4<br><br>I think I should trim it down and just put the total, heh.&nbsp; Anyway, 4 successes.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 22:22:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The mosaic on the ground would seem to be awfully close to the size of a fully manifested anima banner.<br><br>(OOC: that is, ten motes to turn on your Caste ability)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-07-2006, 22:32:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He carefully weighed his options.&nbsp; Yes, it would open the palace, but could Sumire be trusted?&nbsp; She didn't seem a Dynast, but one can never tell.&nbsp; On the other hand, whatever was inside could prove immensely valuable in finding out what he is and perhaps let him defend himself from the Dynasts who came for him.&nbsp; Even as a child, the Wyld Hunt went out less and less....<br><br>In the end, he decided it was worth the risk, and channeled the (OOC: Peripheral) Essence into the sunburst.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 01:27:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"What the...?"&nbsp; Oh, yes, Sumire is <em>definitely</em> impressed!&nbsp; And the sound of stone doors grinding open for the first time in long centuries is probably only about half the reason.<br><br>"Zatoichi...the fog...it's lifting!"<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 03:18:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He slowly stood up, listening to the rumbling of the pyramid to get a mental picture of the interior.&nbsp; The fog lifting actually worried him a bit; without the stigma to keep people away, or undead to defend it from intruders, he might have to come up with some other defenses himself.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 03:23:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It sounds like there's at least one inner chamber, lots of statuary about the place, and doubtlessly plenty of inscriptions and other decorations for Sumire to study to her heart's content.<br><br>The flute starts up again, this time almost cheerfully...<br><br>"Oh!&nbsp; Is that the flute you were...uhm...you're..."&nbsp; Sumire clears her throat awkwardly.&nbsp; "Well.&nbsp; That explains much.&nbsp; After you, then."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 07:15:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His smile got a little wider, but not much.&nbsp; "I trust my secret is safe with you?&nbsp; Though I still know as little or less about this place than you do.&nbsp; Shall we go in together?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 16:54:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"If you think I'm going to be stupid enough to turn on someone who's very presence is probably sparing my life, you have another thing coming!&nbsp; Besides, the monks are always trying to shut me down for one flimsy reason or another.&nbsp; I see no reason to help them."<br><br>She heaves her pack up onto one shoulder again.<br><br>"Let's go have a look...so to speak."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 18:26:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nodded and moved into the pyramid, roughly trying to make his way toward the flute.&nbsp; Once in a while he ran a hand over the stonework to 'see' any designs or text, and roughly tell the age of the stone.&nbsp; If the designs outside were made after the curse, maybe the interior was as well.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 18:39:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The chamber beyond the door is square, thirty feet on a side and twenty feet high, and centers on a statue of a dragon-like creature with a number of arms.&nbsp; The hands are so positioned that if one wished to use them, it might be possible to climb up under a square hole in the ceiling...<br><br>Inside the pyramid, the images continue.&nbsp; They seem to tell a different story, focusing more on the dragonish creature and it's definitely humanoid offspring.&nbsp; Yet, and this is easy enough to determine, the dragon's children are clearly <em>not</em> Terrestrial Exalted.<br><br>Other possible bits of information, passed along by Sumire during her examination: there appear to be twelve children, all daughters.&nbsp; They seem to be something like gods, if the engravings are to be taken as representative, and they do their parent's bidding across Creation.&nbsp; Then, just prior to an event which seems to be the Usurpation, the Twelve were sealed away somehow, or slain, and this tomb clearly houses one of them.<br><br>The flute continues to play.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>22-07-2006, 18:51:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"There's a passage up here, above the dragon.&nbsp; We should be able to climb the arms..."<br><br>Careful not to break anything, he cautiously got into the statue and moved from arm to arm, up through the hole.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>23-07-2006, 04:35:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Sure, go ahead..."<br><br>Gaining entrance to the next chamber is surprisingly easy.&nbsp; It's small...maybe ten feet on a side, seven feet high.&nbsp; There is a small altar table on one end, and a bowl containing some small stones, maybe gems.&nbsp; They're cold to the touch.&nbsp; The flute is so close, it's almost as if Zatoichi could reach out and touch it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>24-07-2006, 04:10:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Since it felt as if he could reach out and touch it, he tried.<br><br>"Where are you?"<br><br>(OOC: Had a power outage, at sister's place.&nbsp; Don't expect updates until I can get online at home again.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-07-2006, 04:14:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				From somewhere, Zatoichi hears a young girl's voice giggling softly.<br><br>"Here!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>25-07-2006, 04:43:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He tried running his hands over the altar for some sign or clue.<br><br>"You'll have to do better than that.&nbsp; In case you didn't notice, I'm blind."<br><br>(OOC: Still no power at home, just at sister's place again.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>25-07-2006, 15:16:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				More soft, musical giggling.<br><br>"Mother wept.&nbsp; Empty her tears, and the lock will open."<br><br>The altar itself appears to have no ornamentation, no carvings of any sort.&nbsp; Just a bowl full of strangely cold stones.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>25-07-2006, 23:28:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Having nothing else to do, he took the bowl and poured the stones out over the altar.<br><br>(OOC: Power is back up!&nbsp; Yay!)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 15:02:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There is a sound of smooth pebbles dropping and scattering across the floor, followed by a sudden silence...and then a quiet giggle from behind Zatoichi...<br><br>"Many thanks, Dayblade!&nbsp; It was boring in there."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 16:50:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He turned around, more to be polite since it made no difference to his perceptions.&nbsp; His smile was back; the whole puzzling situation was a bit frustrating.<br><br>"I can only imagine.&nbsp; Perhaps you'd like to come down with me and explain to myself and my companion more about yourself and this place?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 18:08:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He can hear the pout.<br><br>"Must I?&nbsp; Mother never explains.&nbsp; It ruins the fun!"<br><br>She giggles brightly.<br><br>"I'm Korrawi, also called the Sphinx.&nbsp; No idea why."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 22:31:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He couldn't help but chuckle.<br><br>"Explaining may ruin your momentary fun, but it brings everyone to much better fun much sooner.&nbsp; So how about it?"&nbsp; He went to the hole and began to climb down.&nbsp; "My name is Zatoichi, and my downstairs companion is Sumire.&nbsp; It's a pleasure to meet you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>26-07-2006, 22:45:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Indeed, it is pleasant to be out of there!&nbsp; It was cold.&nbsp; And dark.&nbsp; And terribly dull.&nbsp; Tell me, Blade of the Dawn, has the face of Creation changed much?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 06:04:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm sure it has.&nbsp; I cannot even begin to tell you how, simply because I do not know what it was like when you were... incarcerated.&nbsp; In fact, I seem to know very little about what it is to be a Blade of the Dawn..."<br><br>(OOC: No description of her or anything still?&nbsp; Is she some sort of spirit?)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 15:09:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Has so much time passed?"<br><br>Most people would voice such a question with either wonder or despair.&nbsp; She sounds almost bored.<br><br>"Ahh, well.&nbsp; Nothing for it, then.&nbsp; Please introduce me to your associate."<br><br>She's strangely difficult to get a fix on, for whatever reason, but she seems to be about the size and build of your average twelve-year-old girl.&nbsp; Her face seems strangely featureless...oh, wait.&nbsp; That could be a mask of some sort.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 18:29:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He finished climbing down and, after making sure the girl followed him, brought Sumire over.<br><br>"Sumire, this is Korrawi, the... occupant of this place.&nbsp; Korrawi, this is Sumire, the scholar who brought me here."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 18:34:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hello, Auntie."<br><br>"Hello...AAAAHHHHH!!!!"<br><br>Now, to put those two lines in context, what has happened is simply this: Sumire, who is quite distracted by studying the inscriptions on the walls, turned around as Korrawi waved hello from around Zatoichi's flank.&nbsp; It took a few seconds for the peculiar nature of the occupant to sink in, whereupon Sumire performs her double-take.<br><br>"Who?&nbsp; What?&nbsp; Where...how did you...?&nbsp; She looks kind of young to have been in here.&nbsp; Not to mention alive!"<br><br>Korrawi giggles.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 19:31:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Auntie?"<br><br>He shook his head a bit; this was all feeling very weird.<br><br>"Perhaps you can explain to us who you are and what this place is, and all that..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 19:50:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"That," Korrawi says with all the seriousness of a senior bureaucrat announcing the unforeseen findings of a long and painful system audit, "would be telling."<br><br>She turns to Sumire again and gives the woman a suprisingly formal bow.<br><br>"I grant you permission to take what you wish from this place.&nbsp; I have no need of any of the devotional items placed here, and if Uncle Zatoichi is correct, then the original owners have long since vanished into the dark mists of the Underworld."<br><br>"Uhm...thanks.&nbsp; I think."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 20:04:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zatoichi (OOC: and his player) is completely at a loss when it comes to understanding this Korrawi character.<br><br>"So... who are you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 20:28:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Korrawi the Sphinx, at your service.&nbsp; I did mention that, didn't I?"<br><br>She performs a curious little dance on her way over to the wall, tapping one of the twelve 'children' around the dragon-like figure.<br><br>"Here.&nbsp; Here I am, right between Urvasi the Qiling and Lalita the Gryphon."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 20:58:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"So you're one of the children of the dragon?&nbsp; How did you survive in here for so long?"<br><br>He swallowed a bit before asking his next question.&nbsp; After all, if the Immaculates were right and he was some terrible Anathema, he wouldn't be very happy with himself.<br><br>"And what am I, exactly?&nbsp; I've heard my kind called Solars in some texts, but everyone in this world knows us as Anathema..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 21:05:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am one of the Apsaras, Sword of the Dawn.&nbsp; Mother does not follow the rules, and neither do we."<br><br>Sumire gasps out, "what?&nbsp; But they're a..."<br><br>"A myth.&nbsp; Just like the Unconquered Sun was a false god, I suppose."<br><br>"I need a drink!"<br><br>"You will need more than that."&nbsp; Suddenly all giggles again, Korrawi goes dancing about the chamber.&nbsp; "The correct word for you, Dayblade, is Solar."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 21:13:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"And what is a Solar, exactly?"<br><br>(OOC: Can I get an explanation of Apsaras, too?&nbsp; I've got Lore 3 so I figure Zatoichi would know, but I've never heard the term before.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 21:32:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Why, the favored of the Unconquered Sun, of course!&nbsp; Just as your spouse was the favored of Luna.&nbsp; Where are they, by the by?&nbsp; I have unfinished business with them."<br><br>(OOC go ahead and roll, but it's not an easy answer--three successes needed, with more than five giving you a much better idea.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 21:46:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: Doh, 2 successes.)<br><br>"...With who?&nbsp; The Unconquered Sun and Luna?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-07-2006, 22:34:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Just the Lunars."<br><br>The girl...if that's truly what she is...continues capering about and giggling softly.&nbsp; Sumire shakes her head and collects her things.<br><br>"We...we should go.&nbsp; Maybe I'll be back for some of these later.&nbsp; Maybe not."<br><br>"You have permission.&nbsp; The other safeguards should no longer be in effect."<br><br>"Sa-safeguards?"<br><br>"Of course!&nbsp; If you don't put traps in, sooner or later everybody tries to break in.&nbsp; It took a Solar to bring me out...hmmm.&nbsp; I wonder..."<br><br>Korrawi stops in front of Zatoichi and stands on tiptoe as if trying to get a better look at him.<br><br>"Nope.&nbsp; No family resemblance.&nbsp; You'll have to settle for 'uncle' instead of 'daddy'."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 03:31:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He took the opportunity to move his hands over her face and body, to get a better idea of what she looked like.<br><br>"I have never met a Lunar.&nbsp; I don't even know if they're still around, the only references I've seen are from First Age texts and I've never heard of the Wyld Hunt going after them..."<br><br>Lowering his hands again, he paused in thought.&nbsp; "Are the safeguards gone for good?&nbsp; Though a better question might be, are there any artifacts or... uh, occupants housed here?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 04:40:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You would know better than I, Dayblade."<br><br>Korrawi submits readily enough to his examination.&nbsp; She's fairly cute, in an adorable-little-sister sort of way.<br><br>"I am the only occupant, although there were devotional items left in a lower chamber.&nbsp; Now that I am released, the wards should be inactive."<br><br>She tilts her head to one side.<br><br>"I think."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 06:33:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hm.&nbsp; I am not overworried about such wards.&nbsp; Although, how do we get to the lower chambers?"<br><br>This clearly wasn't a suitable location to remain for an extended period of time, and he wanted to make sure nothing was left behind when they left.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 20:38:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Korrawi giggles again and reaches out to take Sumire's wrist.<br><br>"Here, let me show you."<br><br>She leads the scavenger lord around the central statue, obviously looking for something.<br><br>"Now, where'd they put it?&nbsp; It's supposed to be impossible to spot normally...ah!"<br><br>One finger taps a part of the statue.&nbsp; A moment later there is a grinding noise as...<br><br>"The whole back wall is false?"<br><br>"Enjoy!"<br><br>With a schoolgirlish squeal of glee, Sumire rushes forth.&nbsp; Zatoichi can hear the tinkle and jingle of coins being sorted.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 20:40:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He follows Sumire back to the cache, investigating what is there and hoping to spot something he can hang onto.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 20:45:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Behind the wall lies a veritable treasure trove of artifacts, funerary goods, devotional items...mostly valuable because of their age, as Sumire comments several times under her breath.&nbsp; After a quick survey, it becomes only too obvious that there are no weapons, no armor, and no major artifacts anywhere in here.&nbsp; Jade, gold, and silver...yes.<br><br>"Mother prefers us to travel light," Korrawi giggles from the doorway.&nbsp; "You may come back for these, if you like.&nbsp; Or not."<br><br>"What do you mean?&nbsp; How would we get through the fog?"<br><br>"What fog?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>28-07-2006, 20:57:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm more worried about someone else getting them if we leave all this here.&nbsp; Is there any way we can take it back with us?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 04:17:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sumire sighs heavily.<br><br>"We could go get the cart...if there was any way to get through the fog."<br><br>"What fog?"<br><br>"But even then, I don't know if there's enough space to haul everything..."<br><br>"<em>What</em> fog?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 04:22:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"There was a fog surrounding this place when we arrived.&nbsp; I gather you either didn't know about it or it dissipated when I broke the seal."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 04:27:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"A fog?&nbsp; Are you sure?"<br><br>Korrawi tips her head to one side.&nbsp; Zatoichi can almost hear her smile.<br><br>"Well, well, well.&nbsp; And here I thought I was merely locked in.&nbsp; I must have made someone very upset indeed if they put other measures in place!&nbsp; Tell me, Solar, what else was there?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 04:47:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Quite sure, it extended for miles."<br><br>He smiled gently in response to her own smile.<br><br>"There were also some undead roaming around, and I believe I heard some sort of animal but it never came upon us."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 04:53:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh.&nbsp; Is that all?&nbsp; I was hoping for something more dangerous.&nbsp; Oh, well.&nbsp; Let's go get that cart."<br><br>"Wait!&nbsp; You don't...hey.&nbsp; Hey, Zatoichi...the fog.&nbsp; It's gone.&nbsp; Totally."<br><br>Sumire sounds awfully impressed.&nbsp; And a bit scared.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 04:55:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Probably burned off when I broke the seal."<br><br>Zatoichi stepped outside, listening for any undead or animals that might be roaming nearby, as he headed back in the direction they came from.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 04:58:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"W-wait..."<br><br>Sumire suddenly hugs him from behind, burying her face against his back and shuddering quietly.&nbsp; Using his body as a gag, she screams...whether out of frustration or overload is anyone's guess.&nbsp; Then she releases him, just as abruptly.<br><br>"Sorry.&nbsp; I, uhm...I needed that."<br><br>And Korrawi is somewhere ahead of them, skipping along and playing her flute again.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 05:14:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grinned and gently ran a hand down her arm.<br><br>"I'll give you a massage when we get a chance.&nbsp; It'll do you good."<br><br>He followed after Korrawi, still wondering what to make of the girl.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 05:16:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Y-yeah?&nbsp; I...I mean, uhm..."<br><br>Sumire clears her throat.<br><br>"All right.&nbsp; That could be nice."<br><br>Korrawi is definitely well ahead of them by now, judging by the flute.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 05:24:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He picked up his pace, following Korrawi, before wondering why he was following Korrawi.&nbsp; Unless she somehow knew where the cart was.&nbsp; But ah well.&nbsp; As long as she was headed in the right direction, there was no reason not to follow.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 05:28:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Actually, she's not even close...wandering off in a random direction, but not towards the cart.&nbsp; Finally, she halts.<br><br>"Where are we going, again?"<br><br>And Sumire, for the best of all reasons, is simply unable to withold her laughter.<br><br>"It's to the South, actually."<br><br>"Is it?&nbsp; Oh."&nbsp; The strange little girl comes marching back again.&nbsp; "All right.&nbsp; You lead the way, and I will follow."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 05:32:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckled.&nbsp; "And here I thought you were leading us to more treasure."<br><br>He turned and headed toward the cart, trusting that Korrawi could easily catch up.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 05:37:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sumire all but clings to Zatoichi on the trip out to the cart.<br><br>"I...I don't understand!&nbsp; Were those...did we encounter all the undead in the fog?&nbsp; How...where did everything go?"<br><br>"Ashes, mortal.&nbsp; The unclean cannot stand against the light of the Unconquered Sun."<br><br>"I see.&nbsp; I think.&nbsp; But...do you mean that the monks are wrong when they speak of the Anathema as evil?"<br><br>Korrawi laughs musically.<br><br>"The monks are not as wise as they believe.&nbsp; They never were."<br><br>About an hour later, the small party reaches the cart and the two sullen laborers still guarding it.<br><br>"You made it!&nbsp; What happened to the mist?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 05:42:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He stayed silent, letting Sumire tell the laborers (or not) a story about the new girl and the mist.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 16:09:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sumire gives her two associates a heavily edited version of events, carefully leaving out little details like someone being a Solar, and someone else being apparently some sort of spirit or demon or who knows what.&nbsp; In the end, they're more than happy to pull the cart closer to the tomb and help Sumire start loading as much as they can...<br><br>Korrawi, who has managed somehow to do no more than giggle softly at Sumire's evasions, perches herself on a branch about twenty feet up (after climbing the tree, of course), and kicks her dangling feet idly while she watches the 'adults' work.&nbsp; Out of nowhere, she tosses a question in Zatoichi's general direction:<br><br>"What will you do, Son of the Dawn?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 19:16:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He moved under the tree and kept his voice low, so no one overheard.<br><br>"That depends on what you can tell me about myself.&nbsp; I'd very much like to learn more about what a Solar is.&nbsp; If I should be doing something important, and if I get a share of the money being hauled out so I have the means, I may try doing something important.&nbsp; Otherwise I'll probably keep traveling and learning on my own."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-08-2006, 19:50:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The girl laughs softly.<br><br>"I may not be of much help!&nbsp; I know of them, but you may well understand far more about being one of the Sun-touched that I may ever hope to learn!&nbsp; For me, they just are."<br><br>Another laugh.<br><br>"Creation has changed since I was last abroad.&nbsp; It feels...diminished.&nbsp; Tell me, are the Dragon Kings yet enthroned in far Rathess?&nbsp; That, at least, should not have changed much."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 03:23:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm... not sure what you mean by the Dragon Kings, or Rathess.&nbsp; The monks speak of elemental dragons at each pole of the world, but they're the same ones who say that Solars are the greatest evil in history."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 15:10:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Korrawi is quiet for a long and uncomfortable moment.&nbsp; When she speaks again, for just a moment she sounds much older than her manner and appearance lead one to believe:<br><br>"Creation has changed...much.&nbsp; Perhaps it is later than Mother had hoped."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 19:47:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Perhaps...."<br><br>He tried to smile in a comforting manner.<br><br>"But it cannot be helped.&nbsp; We'd best proceed on, and learn as much as we can."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 20:03:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I suppose.&nbsp; Being my mother's daughter, I have little choice."<br><br>She laughs again, suddenly all brightness and good cheer again.<br><br>"This will indeed be interesting!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 21:34:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"So, what can you tell me about myself?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 21:37:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You are a Solar, Dawn caste.&nbsp; You appear to be male, blind, and thus probably unaware of how others see you.&nbsp; The woman Sumire...she favors you, I think.&nbsp; Beyond that...what would I know of you, Dayblade?&nbsp; We've only just met."<br><br>More childlike laughter.<br><br>"But that is not what you meant!&nbsp; You are meant for war, to act as the sword of the Unconquered Sun, smiting the unjust and the wicked.&nbsp; Did He not tell you as much Himself when you exalted?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 21:47:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I just remember a voice... it reminded me of my father, but it called me a Solar.&nbsp; It told me to always keep my sword bared against evil and my senses sharp against betrayal.&nbsp; That is all I can remember."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 21:53:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"There you are, then."<br><br>Korrawi goes back to playing her flute for a moment.<br><br>"Mother told us once upon a time that the gods needed the Exalted, to do for Creation that which the gods would not or could not do.&nbsp; To that end, and no other, you are lifted up above all others.&nbsp; Yet you are still at heart a mortal with the powers of a small god.&nbsp; Have a care, yes?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 21:56:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nodded.<br><br>"What will you do now that you are free?"<br><br>He wanted her to come with him, but he didn't want to voice that opinion just yet.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 22:00:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				For a moment, it seems as though she has ignored his question, content to play her flute.&nbsp; But then...<br><br>"I will do Mother's work, as is my duty...and my burden.&nbsp; But I may yet choose the manner in which I set myself to task!&nbsp; Are there any cities nearby?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 22:04:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Nexus is the nearest, but it is not safe for lone travelers.&nbsp; I could watch over you, if you like."<br><br>He hesitated before asking, "What is your mother's work?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 22:09:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There is another long pause, broken by a soft laugh as Korrawi lets a hint of her 'older' voice sound again.<br><br>"And perhaps it is I who shall watch over you, Dayblade!&nbsp; Nexus will do.&nbsp; Nexus will do very well."<br><br>She gives another soft laugh.<br><br>"Mother was once known as the Confounder of Wisdom.&nbsp; I am her agent.&nbsp; There are secrets which must no longer be kept, deeds which must be undone, seals to shore up or shatter.&nbsp; Many tasks...and if my sisters are no longer abroad on Creation, I shall be all the busier."<br><br>(OOC Go ahead: Int + Occult.&nbsp; I dare ya.&nbsp; I double dare ya.&nbsp; 5 successes needed...)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 22:23:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: With 3 int and no Occult, I can barely get 1 success.&nbsp; Maybe I should have just brought back Gaze. ;) )<br><br>"Uh... huh.&nbsp; Well then, we'd best be going back.&nbsp; I'm sure Sumire will be happy to provide us with some lodging until I have my share of the income from this little adventure."&nbsp; And, he thought, if Korrawi was right about Sumire favoring him, she might provide more than just lodging....
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-08-2006, 22:28:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: You never know--you might've gotten three 10's, after all.&nbsp; Having rolled only a single success on an 11 die pool before, I know it's possible... :D )<br><br>"A wise idea."<br><br>And strangely, the 'child' is back again, giggling and kicking her feet.<br><br>...some time later...<br><br>Sumire is beside herself with glee all the way back to Nexus, and even the grouchiness of her two laborers seems to have eased somewhat.&nbsp; Secure in the knowledge that they've both earned a major bonus, the two men are even more cheered when Sumire explains that the girl is not getting a share of the treasure.<br><br>The evening the party returns to the city, the woman invites Zatoichi to join her in a flagon or two of fine wine at a local tavern...without Korrawi in tow.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>04-08-2006, 03:42:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				After making sure Korrawi had a place to stay (OOC: I'm guessing probably Ganesh's place, unless Sumire has an extra bed) and instructions not to tell people about herself or Zatoichi, he met Sumire at the tavern with a slightly broader than normal smile.&nbsp; After all, he didn't want to jinx anything by coming off overeager.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>05-08-2006, 19:54:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Korrawi seems only too happy to stay with old Ganesh, and she and little Trouble seem to hit it off almost at once.&nbsp; This leaves Zatoichi plenty of time and relative privacy to prepare for his evening out.<br><br>Sumire gave him good directions to the tavern, and hails him from a corner table when he arrives.<br><br>"Hey!&nbsp; Over here!&nbsp; I ordered you a round already.&nbsp; You like beer?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>06-08-2006, 02:20:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiled when he saw Sumire, and casually moved over to the table and sat across from her.<br><br>"I like it fine, thanks.&nbsp; I trust you are having no trouble handling the.. ah, excavations?"<br><br>In truth, Zatoichi had tried various beers and wines from around the region and from the Blessed Isle, but he didn't care to drink alcohol in any real quantity.&nbsp; When he first drank a full glass of wine in his youth, the effects it had on his balance and his senses threw his perceptions into quite a disarray.&nbsp; Needless to say, the experience kept him from doing any rowdy partying, which is probably a good thing.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>06-08-2006, 03:06:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"No trouble at all!&nbsp; We even found a couple of interested parties..."&nbsp; Sumire chuckles.&nbsp; "Unfortunately, they're both interested in exclusive ownership, so I have to be careful about what I sell to whom.&nbsp; Oh, well."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>06-08-2006, 07:16:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He couldn't help but chuckle as well.&nbsp; "I suppose you know what you are doing.&nbsp; Or do you intend to just hide behind me if they find out?"&nbsp; He grinned and took a sip of his beer.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>06-08-2006, 21:11:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"As handy as you've proven yourself to be with that sword?&nbsp; Why wouldn't I take the advantage of asking you to cover me?"&nbsp; She laughs.&nbsp; Under the table, her foot brushes his leg.&nbsp; "Besides, I'm probably safer with you than with any other man in here."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 01:42:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckled again, and slowly moved his leg against hers.&nbsp; "I am quite sure that's true, but it may not be simply because of my sword."<br><br>He paused to take another sip of beer.<br><br>"I just remembered, I believe I owe you a massage, don't I?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 02:32:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I believe you do," she laughs.&nbsp; "And that is a debt I particularly look forward to collecting.&nbsp; Your sense of touch is, I suspect, rather acute?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 04:22:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"As acute as my hearing, which, needless to say, comes in handy when giving massages."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 05:10:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ah, but can I truly trust you to take advantage?&nbsp; I...I mean <em>not</em> take advantage...oh, dear..."<br><br>Sumire giggles, and Zatoichi can almost hear her blush.<br><br>"That came out wrong!&nbsp; Why, you might mistake me for a woman of easy virtues instead of a tough and independent woman of means."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 05:22:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckled again, having a bit of trouble keeping his voice from carrying.&nbsp; "So was it the tough and independent woman who was clutching my arm after those undead attacked?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 05:24:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Please!&nbsp; Anyone can be frightened of...of something like that!&nbsp; You didn't have to look at them, remember?"<br><br>She shudders.<br><br>"I rather hope never to see anything like them again, thank you very much..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 05:27:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grinned.&nbsp; "Then perhaps we should go up to your room so I can massage your cares away."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 05:31:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Not here.&nbsp; They charge an arm and a leg for a night.&nbsp; I'm actually a few streets away...if you think you can stand it."&nbsp; Again, her foot brushes his leg.&nbsp; "It's been a while since I've done this, you know."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 05:39:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I think I can, if you can lead the way..."&nbsp; He rubbed her leg a bit more before standing up and taking her hand.&nbsp; "That is, if you think you can stand it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 05:45:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"If I can stand the wait, you mean," she mutters softly, leading him outside.<br><br>The streets are a little chilly now, as if a mist has risen off the river while Zatoichi's been inside.&nbsp; Or maybe it was like this earlier and it's only noticeable now that he's come out of a warm, noisy, crowded tavern.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 05:56:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He held onto her hand.&nbsp; "Yes, that's what I meant, though I imagine it can't be very fun to lead a blind man around..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 05:58:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'd have to lead you anyway.&nbsp; You don't know where I live."<br><br>...which turns out to be an upper floor apartment next to a bakery.&nbsp; She leads him up the back stairs, unlocks the door, and guides him inside before closing and barring the door behind them.&nbsp; A moment later she presses against his back, sliding her arms around his waist, kissing his neck.<br><br>"Ohhhhh...gods, it's been too long..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 06:30:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He moaned softly, grinning rather widely as she clung to him.&nbsp; "Perhaps you'd care to get undressed so I can give you that massage... and you can truly trust me to take advantage of you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>07-08-2006, 06:33:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Y-yeah.&nbsp; Massage...uhm.&nbsp; Hang on a minute!"<br><br>She leaves him by the door, clearing a space hurriedly before rolling out her sleeping mat and shucking her clothes.&nbsp; Returning to take his hand, she guides him over by the mat and stretches out on her stomach.<br><br>"I...I'm ready...whenever you are."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 02:05:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He kneels beside her and slowly runs his hands over her back, feeling every muscle, along with every birthmark and scar.&nbsp; He starts off gently, picking out the trouble spots and warming her up.&nbsp; Then, he begins to go deeper, working out the knots and bundles of tension.&nbsp; He slowly works her body loose, moving his hands lower in order to cop a feel of her butt before going on to massage her thighs and calves.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 04:29:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She's definitely tense--her whole back has knots!&nbsp; And she clearly appreciates Zatoichi's skills, moaning softly as he works her muscles out.<br><br>"Nice...oooo!"&nbsp; She almost starts when he gropes her ass.&nbsp; "Do that again, but gentler.&nbsp; Please."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 05:25:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grins at her request, and moves his hands back up to her butt.&nbsp; His fingers slowly work over her ass, gentler than the massage to loosen her tight muscles.<br><br>"This is the sort of work I could do all the time, except I couldn't travel this way..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 05:28:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oooooo...yeah, I bet..." Sumire purrs.&nbsp; "Guess I've got tension in places I didn't think I had muscles!"&nbsp; <br><br>She shifts a bit underneath him.&nbsp; <br><br>"Careful you don't put me to sleep, now.&nbsp; Don't want you going home in the morning all frustrated..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 06:13:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Mm, I'm sure it would wake you up when I started to take advantage of you..."<br><br>Keeping one hand working on her ass, his other began massaging and relaxing her arms.&nbsp; It took a bit of effort not to work down to her wrists; that really would put her to sleep.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 14:54:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh, my goodness!&nbsp; And you would take advantage of a sweet and innocent city girl, wouldn't you?&nbsp; How (yawn) horrid!"<br><br>Sumire giggles, making it perfectly clear that she's just kidding.<br><br>"You've got magic hands, Zatoichi...bet the girls all love you for it, too."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 17:28:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Well I know all the girls in this room love me for it..."<br><br>Once he finished up with her arms, he went back to gently massaging and fondling her ass.<br><br>"If you'd care to flip over, I can take care of the rest of your body..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 17:29:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Mmmm...with what you're doing now, I'm not sure I want to turn over!"&nbsp; But, with a quiet laugh, she does.&nbsp; "Careful, now."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 17:46:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He started with her shoulders, gently running his fingers along her collarbone and slowly working the last knots out there.&nbsp; Then he began to go lower, stopping to massage just above her breasts.&nbsp; He was quite tempted to go for her breasts right away, but he didn't want to come off appearing too eager.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 17:51:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She shifts under him, purring.<br><br>"...magic hands, indeed!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 18:13:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Mm, thank you..."<br><br>He gave in and cupped her breasts in his hands, gently massaging them and feeling the size and firmness of her chest.&nbsp; He was careful not to touch her nipples just yet; he wanted to keep her on edge.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 18:19:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ahhhhh!&nbsp; Oh, my..."<br><br>She shifts again, letting her legs part slightly.<br><br>"You...you make it rather difficult to stay relaxed, you know..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 18:35:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Well, I don't want you to fall asleep, after all.&nbsp; Then what I'll do to you might technically be considered rape..."<br><br>He gave her nipples a quick pinch, then ran his hands over her torso, tickling her belly button briefly.&nbsp; Then he let his hands move down to her thighs, massaging away the last bits of tension he could find and gently spreading her legs apart.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 18:39:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ahhh!"&nbsp; She squirms when he pinches her, parting her legs even more.<br><br>"G-gentle, please!&nbsp; I don't normally like that until I'm almost ready...I mean...ahhhhhh..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>08-08-2006, 18:42:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Mm, forgive me, I'll be gentle..."<br><br>He leaned down and planted a gentle kiss on each of her nipples, as his hands crept between her legs to carefully explore her pubic region.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 02:56:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a quiet giggle, Sumire spreads her legs wider, tilting her hips to allow him easier access and running her fingers through his hair.<br><br>"Your mouth feels so <em>goooood</em>..."<br><br>She purrs at his touch.<br><br>"Gettin' me wet. baby!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 03:00:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles lightly.&nbsp; "Baby?"<br><br>Keeping one hand moving around her nether region, teasing her and keeping her aroused, he undressed as quickly as he could without disrupting her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 03:04:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You...ahhh...got another pet name I should use for you?"<br><br>She keeps wiggling back against his hand, trying to keep his touch in just the right place.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 03:13:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Most call me Zato for short, I'm sure you can think of something more appropriate though..."<br><br>After a few more seconds he pulls his fingers away, bringing them up to his mouth to taste her juices.&nbsp; "Mmm, delicious..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 03:14:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She giggles again.<br><br>"You like that?&nbsp; I'd like to feel your mouth there, too..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 03:20:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I had something else in mind..."<br><br>Moving between her legs, he gently pushed her knees a bit futher apart and rubbed the tip of his length against her pussy lips.&nbsp; Needless to say, he was already quite erect, and his acute sense of touch just heightened his pleasure.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 03:21:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ooooo, already?"<br><br>She laughs, reaching up to play her fingers across his chest.<br><br>"Okay!&nbsp; Go ahead, Zato."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 03:27:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grinned.&nbsp; "What can I say?&nbsp; It's been a while for me too."<br><br>Running his hands down her thighs, he slowly thrusts his hips forward, penetrating her warm depths.&nbsp; He did his best to be gentle, but it <em>had</em> been a while for him, and he was definitely eager.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 03:31:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ooooo..."&nbsp; One hand curls into a fist, pounding his shoulder lightly as she slides her ankles around his knees.&nbsp; "Oh, yes..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 04:36:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He groans deeply, his eyelids fluttering involuntarily, as he pushed deeper inside her.&nbsp; When he can't go any deeper, he slowly pulls back, almost completely withdrawing, before thrusting forward again.&nbsp; He formed a slow and steady rhythm this way, his breath coming in deep gasps, letting her body adjust to his size.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 04:54:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a soft sigh, she pulls him closer.<br><br>"Yeah!&nbsp; That feels nice, Zato.&nbsp; Just like that."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 04:59:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He moans softly, holding onto her ass with his hands as he fucks her.&nbsp; He tries to keep the same pace, but he can't help but gradually move faster in and out of her.<br><br>"Mmm... so good, Sumire..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 05:01:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Laughing, she grinds her hips up against him.<br><br>"Yeah...faster...give it to me..."<br><br>Pulling him closer, she cranes her neck until she can close her teeth around one of his nipples.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 05:05:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He gives a soft hiss at the brief pain, but (trooper that he is) keeps giving it to her.&nbsp; He thrusts faster and harder into her warm, welcoming pussy, groaning in pleasure.&nbsp; Taking one hand off her butt, he gives her nipple a little pinch, to let her know he can give as good as he gets in that department.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 05:07:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Crying out sharply, she releases him and lies back.<br><br>"More?&nbsp; More of that.&nbsp; Gets me hotter..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 05:14:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He moves both his hands to her breasts, squeeing them roughly.&nbsp; Every few seconds, he'll give one of her nipples a pinch or a twist.&nbsp; He fucks her faster now, and much harder, grunting and groaning from the effort and the stimulation.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 05:17:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Aaahhhh...yeah...oh, want you...do that from behind, make me moan for it..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 05:29:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Grinning, he quickly pulls out and flips her onto her stomach, his hands cupping her breasts.<br><br>"Moan for it, you horny little wench..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 05:35:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh!"&nbsp; She laughs suddenly, wiggling her butt.&nbsp; "Please take me?&nbsp; Fuck me like a bad little doggy!&nbsp; Slide that lovely cock of yours right up my tight pussy and play with my tits while you fuck me good and hard..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 05:43:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Mmm, like to talk dirty, do you?"<br><br>He gives her nipples a sharp pinch, running his dick along her pussy lips.&nbsp; Rather than penetrate her pussy again, however, he pressed his cock against her asshole and pushed slowly inside her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 15:32:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"AAAHHHH!!!"<br><br>Bowing her head, pushing herself back on him, she moans loud and long.<br><br>"Oh...oh, you...owwww...."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 19:14:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He doesn't give her much warmup this time, but instead just starts pounding away at her tight ass quickly and roughly.&nbsp; His balls rhythmically spanked her wet pussy, while his hands kept groping and pinching her breasts and nipples.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-08-2006, 20:40:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"AAAHHHHH!&nbsp; Oh, <em>ZATO</em>!"<br><br>Sumire suddenly starts trembling, almost forced into a climax by the raw intensity of their coupling.<br><br>"Ohhhhh, more...!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>11-08-2006, 05:27:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He couldn't hold back anymore.&nbsp; With a loud groan, he rammed his cock into Sumire's ass and exploded in orgasm.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>11-08-2006, 21:38:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She moans as he finishes, reaching between her thighs to finish herself off quickly and burying her face in a handy cushion to stifle her cries of pleasure.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>12-08-2006, 05:34:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grabbed her wrist when she reached back, and ran his own fingers over her sensitive clit to finish her off.&nbsp; He tried to keep his cock moving inside her ass, to give her a little extra stimulation, but he was panting pretty heavily and rather worn out for the moment.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>12-08-2006, 19:46:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a sudden cry, she climaxes...and collapses, panting heavily.<br><br>"That was...oh...!&nbsp; Gonna have to keep you around, Zato!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>13-08-2006, 03:39:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zatoichi chuckles amidst his panting, and gives Sumire a spank on the butt.<br><br>"Mm, but would it be you keeping me or me keeping you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>13-08-2006, 19:59:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She moans softly and puts her head down on her crossed arms.<br><br>"...dunno...don' really care right now..."<br><br>She yawns, giggling suddenly.<br><br>"You wore me out?&nbsp; Whoa..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>14-08-2006, 00:06:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'll take that as a compliment."<br><br>He grins and stands up, carefully lifting her in his arms and carrying her to the bed.&nbsp; "I'm not sure if I should stay the night or check on Korrawi..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>14-08-2006, 05:36:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Awwww...stay the night, why don't you?&nbsp; She can probably take care of herself.&nbsp; Plus, that little street urchin can probably keep an eye on her for you. What was her name again?&nbsp; Problem?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>14-08-2006, 07:03:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Trouble, yeah.&nbsp; I suppose she'll live for one night... I hope..."<br><br>He crawls into bed next to her, wrapping his arms around her waist.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>15-08-2006, 21:09:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Mmmm...good.&nbsp; Because I might just wake up feeling like taking advantage of that lovely thick cock of yours, Zato-chan!"&nbsp; She giggles sleepily.&nbsp; "You're definitely a keeper."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>15-08-2006, 21:24:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckles and hugs her with a sigh, feeling very worn out suddenly.&nbsp; It doesn't take long for him to drift off to sleep.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>16-08-2006, 19:49:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				In the morning he wakes to find himself...restrained.&nbsp; Tied, spread-eagled, over the sleeping mat.&nbsp; And Sumire's hand washing him clean.<br><br>"Good morning, Zato!&nbsp; Ready for an early-morning bit of fun?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-08-2006, 20:19:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato feels about, testing the bonds tying him to the bed.&nbsp; He figures he can break them if he tried, but what would be the fun in that?<br><br>"Nothing too rough, now.&nbsp; Pain isn't exactly a turn-on for me..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-08-2006, 20:26:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh, I wasn't thinking of hurting you..."<br><br>Her fingers tease him to hardness.<br><br>"Frustrating you until you beg me to let you come, maybe.&nbsp; But not hurting you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>22-08-2006, 19:37:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He groans deeply as Sumire brings him to erection.<br><br>"Just don't go too far, or I'll be forced to break out of these bonds and rape you while you're teasing me..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>22-08-2006, 19:50:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh?&nbsp; And just how much can you take..."<br><br>She bends and takes him in her mouth, working him down her throat almost all the way to the hilt, then lets him slide back out as she sits up.<br><br>"...before breaking?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>23-08-2006, 02:08:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He groans as her mouth envelopes his length.<br><br>"I suppose... there's only one way to find out..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>23-08-2006, 02:13:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"And what might that be?"<br><br>Giggling, she deep-throats him again, humming to add a few good vibrations to the experience.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>24-08-2006, 05:43:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Obviously...."<br><br>He pauses to groan deeply as she swallows his length again.<br><br>"...Tease me until I break out and rape you..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-08-2006, 05:48:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She comes up for air and wags a finger at him.<br><br>"Ravish.&nbsp; You can't rape me if I want you to do it, now, can you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>24-08-2006, 19:56:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grins and takes a breath.<br><br>"I think the end result would look identical in either case, my dear."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-08-2006, 19:58:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Maaayyyy-be.&nbsp; Maybe not.&nbsp; If you ravish me, I might help."<br><br>And she deep throats him again, humming and running her fingers along his belly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>26-08-2006, 07:19:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zatoichi groans again, letting his head fall back against the pillow.&nbsp; The semantics of the situation weren't worth debating at the moment.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>26-08-2006, 20:04:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Getting him good and hard, she finally swings a leg over and lowers herself on his cock, gasping as she lets him enter her ass.&nbsp; Then, balancing herself with one hand on his chest, she rubs herself rapidly.<br><br>"...yessss...that's good!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-08-2006, 19:31:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He moans deeply, wanting to reach up and grab Sumire's breasts, but not wanting to break the bonds so quickly.<br><br>"Mmmm... seems you've... given up on... teasing...."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-08-2006, 20:10:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Wordlessly, she pulls herself almost all the way off of his length, holding there for several seconds before dropping again, quite suddenly.<br><br>"AAAHHHHH!&nbsp; Y-yeah...feels so good up my ass..."<br><br>She repeats this several times, holding herself up a little longer with each repetition.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>28-08-2006, 05:36:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He groans and moans each time she lowers herself, still wishing he had use of his hands, but able to take the intermittant torture so far.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-08-2006, 04:45:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Suddenly forcing herself down on him all the way and grinding against him, she cries out passionately...<br><br>"Oh!&nbsp; Oh, gods, I never....ahhhhh, you bad boy!&nbsp; You made me come, and you didn't even touch me!&nbsp; Tsk."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>29-08-2006, 06:23:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He couldn't help but lay back and chuckle.<br><br>"Does that mean... I win?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>03-09-2006, 06:29:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sumire laughs and starts to say something...but that is when her door gets kicked open by someone's booted foot.&nbsp; With a cry of alarm, she rolls off of Zatoichi and scrambles for a blanket...<br><br>Heavy footfalls sound as a number of well-armored people come through the door.&nbsp; One of them, a woman with a cold, slightly nasal voice, addresses the would-be scavenger lord.<br><br>"Hello, again, Sumire.&nbsp; Found a new toy, have you?"<br><br>"Leave him out of this!"<br><br>"Oh, I intend to.&nbsp; Lovely specimen though he is.&nbsp; But you, my dear, owe a few explanations.&nbsp; Come along quietly and you'll probably come home to fuck him again."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>05-09-2006, 08:12:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zatoichi quickly supposed that the game was over now, with a bit of amusement that he had indeed won.<br><br>Easily breaking the bonds on his wrists and ankles, he quickly rolled to one side, off the bed (OOC: to whichever side his daiklave is on).&nbsp; He didn't take up the sword just yet, since he didn't want to expose his nature if he didn't have to, but he still felt the attunement to the weapon and hearthstone, and it comforted him to be near it.<br><br>With his bare feet now on the floor, he felt better about having to fight them, even if it was unarmed.&nbsp; He wasn't entirely helpless in that area.&nbsp; "If all you seek are explanations, there is no need for violence or relocation.&nbsp; Why not discuss it here and now?"&nbsp; His voice still had that soft, casual tone to it, and his smile was a bit wider than usual, but he was primed for action if needed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>05-09-2006, 18:50:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ah, a reasonable man.&nbsp; Most unfortunately for you, my lord is not particularly reasonable, and he insists on seeing this tomb-robbing filth in person.&nbsp; Probably naked and violated, but there's no accounting for taste.&nbsp; Now, if you don't mind?&nbsp; You really aren't involved."<br><br>There is a moment of silence, then she makes a rather appreciative noise.<br><br>"Although you <em>are</em> a handsome specimen, aren't you?&nbsp; Perhaps something could be arranged...if you cooperate."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>06-09-2006, 04:17:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am afraid that I am involved, my dear."&nbsp; There was no sense being impolite at this juncture.&nbsp; "You see, I have a certain financial stake involved, which I'd most like to see come to fruition.&nbsp; Besides, I'd be rather offended if she were to be violated by anyone but myself."<br><br>He smiled, hoping some natural charm could sway the woman a bit.<br><br>"So if I may ask, who is your lord and what does he wish of her?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>06-09-2006, 06:38:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				This certainly seems to surprise Sumire...<br><br>"Za-Zatoichi?"<br><br>In a <em>good</em> way.&nbsp; The undertones in&nbsp; her voice make it perfectly clear that if there weren't several angry people with weapons in here, she'd be rewarding him amply.<br><br>The other woman, however, is not so favorably impressed.<br><br>"My lord's name is none of your concern.&nbsp; The woman will likely be returned to you, if she is yours, once our lord finishes his present business.&nbsp; She'll live.&nbsp; The dead are soooo unprofitable."<br><br>Okay, that was sarcasm, laid on with a trowel.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>06-09-2006, 21:56:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His grin faded a bit, but it was still there.<br><br>"All sarcasm aside, I'm not going to allow that.&nbsp; I'd hate to hurt anyone, but I'm not above violence."<br><br>He was still poised to take up the sword if he had to, but he didn't suspect he'd have to unless these were Dynasts.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-09-2006, 05:00:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"And what exactly are you going to do about it, I wonder.&nbsp; No, you'd best just stay out of this, man.&nbsp; It'll be healthier for all concerned."<br><br>The woman gives a triumphant little snort.<br><br>"Come along, grave-robber, before I decide to hurt your precious boy-toy."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>08-09-2006, 05:22:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(Now I get to ask how many people there are, heh.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>08-09-2006, 05:46:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(sounds like four...five including Sumire)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>08-09-2006, 06:11:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm afraid that's out of the question..."<br><br>And then he was moving.<br><br>He reached down quickly, pulling his daiklave from its sheath and swinging it around in front of him.&nbsp; He leaped forward, a glowing trail following him as he moved with inhuman speed.&nbsp; His blade lashed out in sparkling gold arcs, one, two, three, four times.&nbsp; Then he was back, between the door and Sumire, ready to deal with whoever was left standing.<br><br>(OOC: Using my combo of Iron Whirlwind Attack + Bulwark Stance, so I've got 9 dice to parry any counters this round, heh.&nbsp; I should get some sort of surprise round or something, I mean, who expects a naked guy to attack 4 armed and armored people?&nbsp; Ah well, in case it's needed... 14.<br><br>Attacking in no particular order...<br>1: 6 successes<br>2: 4 successes<br>3: 7 successes<br>4: 7 successes<br><br>10 Personal essence and 1 Willpower spent.)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>09-09-2006, 21:14:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The thugs, whoever they are, are taken completely by surprise...and Zatoichi's blade makes short work of three of them, wounding the fourth severely.&nbsp; The downside of this is that Sumire screams her head off...not least of which because of the short crimson rain which results!<br><br>(GOOD rolls.&nbsp; Three KIA'd extras and one Incapacitated.&nbsp; What a mess...)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>09-09-2006, 21:52:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(They'd better be good rolls, for 10 essence and a willpower point. :P )<br><br>He tried to ignore the droplets of blood landing against his skin, and he quickly dropped the sword and hurried over to Sumire.&nbsp; "It's okay, you're fine, you're not hurt..."<br><br>He took some moments to try to calm her down, then hid the sword under his clothes in case anyone busted in.&nbsp; "Do you know what these people want from you?"&nbsp; He had an ear to the surviving thug, to tell if he or she was going to try anything, but he doubted it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>09-09-2006, 21:55:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The surviving thug is currently out for the count, passed out from shock.&nbsp; Sumire simply latches on to him, hyperventilating and whimpering.<br><br>"They...I...Dynast..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>09-09-2006, 22:02:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He held her close, gently running his fingers through her hair.<br><br>"It's okay, they won't hurt you.. just tell me what's going on..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>12-09-2006, 18:08:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				In between sobs, Sumire reveals the following.<br><br>"I...uhm...there's this Dynast, and he...he doesn't like scavenger lords.&nbsp; Especially not when we dig into certain places.&nbsp; I <em>thought</em> that tomb was outside his interest!&nbsp; He's certainly never made any claim about it before...but since word must have gotten out that I found something, he must have just...changed his mind."<br><br>She shudders.<br><br>"He's supposed to be from House Cathak...Fire Aspect.&nbsp; They say he's gone rogue, but..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>12-09-2006, 18:17:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He blinked in a bit of surprise.&nbsp; "House Cathek?&nbsp; What's his name?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>12-09-2006, 18:29:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I've heard one of his minions call him Lord Weige, so...Cathak Weige?"<br><br>She shivers a bit more, and would probably add more if not for the soft and impressed voice from her now-ruined doorway.<br><br>"Oh, my!&nbsp; <em>Onechan, oniechan</em>, it seems Korrawi can't leave you two anywhere!&nbsp; Did the Dynasts come to play?"<br><br>The slight form of a certain perplexing little girl leans against the doorframe, smirking at the scene.<br><br>"They should have been more polite."<br><br>She giggles softly.<br><br>"Is <em>onechan</em> pregnant yet?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>13-09-2006, 02:03:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zatoichi couldn't help but chuckle.&nbsp; "Onechan isn't pregnant.&nbsp; I am incapable of fathering any children, at least normally.&nbsp; For all I know there is some magic that might override that, but Sumire has nothing to worry about."<br><br>He sighed then, and looked over at the bodies.&nbsp; "Weige...&nbsp; You say he has gone rogue?&nbsp; Then House Cathek will be here soon, and we should not be.&nbsp; Korrawi and I, at least, should be miles away.&nbsp; Sumire, if you want to finish the deals you started, you can probably lay low for a few days and be safe...."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>18-09-2006, 01:49:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh?&nbsp; She isn't?&nbsp; How unexpected."&nbsp; Korrawi laughs musically.&nbsp; "Mother will be cross with you, Son of the Dawn!"<br><br>Sumire simply gasps in alarm.&nbsp; Whether she is more upset at the thought of having to deal with House Cathak, or of possibly getting pregnant, or the very matter of fact way in which such a small child discusses such things, is Zatoichi's guess.<br><br>"I...yes.&nbsp; Low profile...uhm..."<br><br>She grabs for a tunic, hastily discarded the night before, and shields her charms.&nbsp; She's probably blushing.<br><br>"Shall we go, Elder Brother?&nbsp; Or do you need to give her a last goodbye fuck before we depart Nexus?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>18-09-2006, 02:01:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He chuckled and got dressed again, wiping the bits of blood away and cleaning off his daiklave before strapping it to his back again.<br><br>"We'd best go quickly.&nbsp; But what to do with the survivor?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>18-09-2006, 05:18:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"He is of no great significance.&nbsp; If we let him live, then he will simply explain the truth.&nbsp; If not, well...one less loose end."<br><br>Korrawi giggles, turns on one heel, and skips away while humming a cheerful little tune.&nbsp; She certainly doesn't sound like someone who just witnessed a massacre of thuggage.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>18-09-2006, 06:36:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He sighed and moved close to Sumire.&nbsp; "We'll be alright, just keep yourself safe.&nbsp; I'll come back after things have calmed down."&nbsp; He kissed her, deeply, and helped her get her things and leave.<br><br>Once she was outside, he drew his daiklave and finished off the last thug.&nbsp; Replacing the sword on his back, he joined Korrawi and made his way out of town.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:03:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Getting out of Nexus was the easy part.&nbsp; No doubt return at any point in the next ten years would be difficult, at best--one does not massacre the minions of a Dynast without angering at least someone on the Council!&nbsp; For now, though, nobody was on the lookout for Zatoichi.<br><br>And nobody in their right mind is likely to be after little Korrawi, who proves to be a difficult traveling companion in short order.&nbsp; The child seems to think this is some sort of game...never mind the dead bodies.&nbsp; Never mind the curious stares of passers-by (Zato can't see them, perhaps, but he can certainly pick up the whispered comments).&nbsp; Never mind her habit of saying the damndest things at the strangest times!<br><br>"We must go North, Elder Brother," is how she greets Zato on their second day on the road.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:05:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zatoichi, patient as he could ever be, didn't falter in traveling with the young girl.&nbsp; The declaration to travel north, however, seemed quite sudden.<br><br>"And why is that, little one?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:08:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Why, Mother's business, of course!"&nbsp; A musical laugh follows, and from the sound of it she's dancing a quick jig.&nbsp; "There are matters to set aright once again, Son of the Dawn.&nbsp; Are you not willing to bring His light ahead of you into the darkest of places?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:13:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Bringing forward such light can be very dangerous in this world, Korrawi.&nbsp; What did you have in mind?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:18:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I do not know yet.&nbsp; But all will be revealed in time.&nbsp; Perhaps we will find your mate again?"<br><br>More laughter, more dancing.<br><br>"We shall tell others that I am your daughter.&nbsp; That should ease most suspicions.&nbsp; I shall lead you by the hand, as a duitful daughter ought.&nbsp; Who knows?&nbsp; Perhaps you will find more chances not to impregnate willing mortals."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:32:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I have no memory of any mate I might once have had.&nbsp; I would have to hope she remembers me."<br><br>After her latest bout of dancing finished, he deftly reached out and took her hand.<br><br>"You'll have to forgive my attraction to females, dear sister.&nbsp; It is a plague of all males in Creation, and I fear in an unguarded moment I may have those same feelings even for my 'daughter'."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:36:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Then you must get used to disappointment, 'father dear'.&nbsp; I am a dutiful child, and such a thing would be most improper!"<br><br>She laughs, not sounding the least bit offended.<br><br>"Your mate will no doubt be jealous to hear of such things.&nbsp; I would fear for my safety in my stepmother's presence!&nbsp; Surely you would not wish me to come to harm?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:37:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He couldn't help but chuckle.&nbsp; "I would imagine that 'proper' would be the last thing you would be, dear daughter."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:41:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am most dutiful.&nbsp; See, I even lead you where Mother's business shall take us!"&nbsp; She dances away from him again.&nbsp; "Why would you not prefer the nubile and full-breasted maidens of your own kind, Dayblade?&nbsp; Are we so attractive to you, child-like though we are?&nbsp; I know of a race of men far, far to the south who would please you thusly.&nbsp; Should I procure one for you?"<br><br>She giggles.<br><br>"Alas, I must wait in chaste purity for whichever groom you shall arrange for me, father.&nbsp; To do else would bring grave dishonor upon you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:44:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ah, you may find me a protective and irrational guardian in that respect, daughter, and refuse to deem anyone worthy of you."<br><br>He grinned somewhat and caught her hand again.<br><br>"As for taste in women, I am not so shallow to value one physical attribute above anything else in the pursuit of beauty."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:47:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Then you protect my virtue for virtue's sake?&nbsp; How unusual!&nbsp; Do you so desire that which is forbidden?"<br><br>She does not pull away this time, but instead steers his hand to her shoulder.<br><br>"There.&nbsp; And thus shall I guide you.&nbsp; Tonight we shall find you a barmaid, that you lie not distracted and awake."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:50:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It is natural to desire most what one cannot have, for good or ill.&nbsp; I imagine it mostly goes ill."<br><br>Holding her shoulder, he gave the girl a gentle, affectionate squeeze.<br><br>"I do not know if a simple barmaid will be satisfying, but I'll trust your judgment until it steers me wrong, my dear."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:53:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"She shall serve you far better in that desired manner than I should."<br><br>For just a moment, a hint of something else enters her voice: he heard it in the tomb as well.<br><br>"Far better.&nbsp; Stick to your mortals, Dayblade.&nbsp; For all that I am friendly, I may prove to be no friend."<br><br>Then, with another giggle, the playful and innocent little girl is back again.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 04:58:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I should hate to think I might be betrayed by my own daughter.&nbsp; Or is it sister?&nbsp; In any case, I am entrusting my life to you for a time."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 05:10:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Just so long as you remember that Mother is no one's ally for long, and friend to few.&nbsp; Not even to Father."<br><br>She lapses into silence for a moment, then produces her flute and begins to play softly as they walk along.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 05:13:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Very well...."<br><br>He walked on, his hand on her shoulder, and let him lead her along.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 05:26:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Besides, Elder Sister will be cross with me if I do not bring you back in one piece.&nbsp; I do not want Elder Sister to cry and throw things.&nbsp; Did you enjoy taking her like a boy?"<br><br>Another soft giggle...<br><br>And thus the day goes.&nbsp; Toward evening (Zato can tell this because of the drop in temperature), they approach a small village.&nbsp; Shelter for the night, at least, and hot food.<br><br>"Here we are, 'father'.&nbsp; Shall I procure the...hmm.&nbsp; Never mind.&nbsp; She is not for you, I think."<br><br>A quiet giggle follows.<br><br>"The beard would indicate that the bar maid is a bar...man."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 18:29:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He didn't respond to her comment about taking Sumire from behind.&nbsp; He knew it wouldn't do him any good.<br><br>Once at the inn, he ignored Korrawi's ribbing over the bartender and focused on taking stock of the other occupants of the inn.&nbsp; The last thing he needed was some traveling Dynast accosting him.&nbsp; He could only hope Korrawi would lead him to one of the empty tables, instead of trying to make him sit with someone else.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>19-09-2006, 22:19:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The inn is not terribly crowded, so finding an empty table is not difficult.&nbsp; Perhaps in his mind's eye Zato can imagine Korrawi kicking her feet back and forth idly as she perches on the bench across from him--they're a bit high, it seems, to be comfortable for her.<br><br>The other occupants are mostly fellow travellers, a few rustics taking their ease after a day in the fields, and...one other.&nbsp; One very large other...he towers head and shoulders over the others, by the sound of things.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-09-2006, 04:30:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: It's Tadj reborn!)<br><br>Zatoichi took in what he heard and felt unflinchingly.&nbsp; The giant was somewhat distracting, however.&nbsp; He whispered quietly to Korrawi, "Tell me more about the tall fellow."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-09-2006, 17:35:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Which one?&nbsp; There are so many biggers in here..."<br><br>Zato can hear the impish grin in her voice, but she quickly sobers.<br><br>"You mean the one just there, like you, brooding at an empty table?&nbsp; I know him not."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>20-09-2006, 18:51:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I did not expect you to.&nbsp; But does he bear any tokens or insignia that might give away his origins or affiliations?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>20-09-2006, 18:55:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I do not know.&nbsp; They may simply be decorative, and things are not as they once were."&nbsp; She makes a curious little noise, turning to regard the man.<br><br>"He has a medallion of rank, perhaps?&nbsp; Around his neck.&nbsp; His clothes are sturdy and well made.&nbsp; He does not seem to be Terrestrial."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>21-09-2006, 02:11:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He thought, trying to consider what this man might be.&nbsp; "Can you describe the medallion to me?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>22-09-2006, 05:21:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It is unfamiliar to me: a simple stone, highly polished, of deep red, set in a bronze medallion and hung from a chain around his neck.&nbsp; I know of no such badge of rank...but if I must guess, that is what I think it might be."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>22-09-2006, 21:10:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: And it looks like Zato doesn't have any appropriate skill to recognize it.&nbsp; Ah well.)<br><br>Zato shook his head, trying to clear out his concern over the man.&nbsp; After all, he hadn't done anything to them, and it's not like he could sneak up on them.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>23-09-2006, 20:54:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A few minutes after this, the giant stands and makes his way over to Zato's table.<br><br>"May I join you?"<br><br>There's something interesting about his voice, a different tonal quality that's hard to pin down precisely.&nbsp; It's deep and rich and sonorous, which makes sense, but there's something else in there, too.<br><br>"I do not mind," Korrawi volunteers meekly.&nbsp; "Father?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>23-09-2006, 23:10:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato put on his usual smile and kept his face forward, as all good harmless blind men do.<br><br>"I suppose if my daughter does not mind, there is no harm in it.&nbsp; Have a seat."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 19:12:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Then...I thank you both."<br><br>The large man settles himself.<br><br>"If I may ask, are you about business to the North?"<br><br>Korrawi stiffens a little.&nbsp; Zato can hear her sudden intake of breath.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 19:39:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He kept his little smile, and hoped the giant was too far away vertically to hear Korrawi's nervousness.<br><br>"I am not sure, to be honest.&nbsp; You see, I am a masseuse by trade, and I had hoped to do business in Nexus.&nbsp; Sadly, I never was able to get any high-class clients for my business, and I couldn't support my daughter there.&nbsp; So, we are looking for a smaller city to establish such a business."<br><br>He turned partially toward the giant and tilted his head up.<br><br>"My but you sound like a tall one.&nbsp; May I ask your business, sir?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 19:44:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The man rumbles with quiet laughter.<br><br>"Seeking employment.&nbsp; Alas, I am no masseur."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 19:54:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh?&nbsp; What sort of employment are you after, then?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 19:57:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Whatsoever the gods may see fit to grant me.&nbsp; Would you perhaps need a bouncer, to protect you from irate husbands and lovers as you ply your trade?"<br><br>He laughs again, this time joined by Korrawi's slightly nervous giggle.<br><br>"That's funny!&nbsp; Daddy never has any trouble with husbands."<br><br>"Oh?&nbsp; Are you his protector, then, little one?"<br><br>"Me?"&nbsp; The girl pretends to think this over.&nbsp; "Yes?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 20:35:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato chuckles a bit.&nbsp; "I have some measure of protection in that I am blind, and most husbands are loath to take aggression against a poor blind man.&nbsp; A benefit of my nature."<br><br>He lowered his voice so only those at the table could hear.&nbsp; "I can understand how your nature might be disadvantageous, however..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 20:55:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Yes..."<br><br>Korrawi giggles again, less nervously this time.<br><br>"We are on business, as you say."<br><br>"Of course.&nbsp; Northwards?"<br><br>"Perhaps."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 21:14:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I take it you would care to accompany us?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 21:20:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"If my presence will not prove burdensome.&nbsp; I am curious, though..."&nbsp; He turns to regard Korrawi closely.&nbsp; "There is a legend of a mother with twelve daughters."<br><br>"Is there?"<br><br>"And I am quite curious to know whether the elder's attention is fixed on the north just now.&nbsp; There have been rumors and ghosts of rumors about."&nbsp; He too lowers his voice.&nbsp; "They say the Solar Exalted are returning.&nbsp; They say the Empress has gone missing, as well...and the Fair Ones again walk at the edges of Creation."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 21:30:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Hmmm.. it is true the Wyld Hunt does not ride out as often as they used to, but for the Empress to go missing...&nbsp; Is there any rumor of what is behind that?&nbsp; One of the Dynast Houses, perhaps?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 21:39:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The man shrugs slowly, like a mountain range moving.<br><br>"With the Realm on the verge of disorder, the monks have other problems...I would suppose.&nbsp; My name is Sebek."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 21:51:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am called Zatoichi, and this is my daughter Sachiko."&nbsp; He hoped she didn't mind the alias, but Sebek had already displayed an unhealthy amount of knowledge.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>24-09-2006, 21:56:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Korrawi gives Zato a curious look at her new name but does not protest.<br><br>"Of course.&nbsp; I am pleased to meet you both."&nbsp; The large 'man' nods politely.&nbsp; "We should speak more in the morning, when you are both well rested and better prepared to discuss our future travels...assuming my companionship is still a welcome thing."<br><br>He rises and stretches, his arms brushing the ceiling.<br><br>"Good night to you, Zatoichi.&nbsp; Sachiko-chan."<br><br>He heads away, perhaps to a private room.&nbsp; Korrawi watches him go.<br><br>"So.&nbsp; Some survived.&nbsp; How...unforeseen."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>25-09-2006, 01:56:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I know only a little about what sort of creature he is.&nbsp; Perhaps you could enlighten me."<br><br>He smiles a bit.&nbsp; "I hope you do not mind the alias, but he seemed to know too much about us already."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>25-09-2006, 17:12:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"The alias?&nbsp; Oh.&nbsp; It is nothing."&nbsp; Little Korrawi makes a dismissive gesture with one hand.&nbsp; "I will speak more of our new friend later, when we have a touch more privacy.&nbsp; Some tales are not for all ears."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>26-09-2006, 00:52:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Very well then..."<br><br>(Might as well skip ahead to the room and exposition, heh)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>26-09-2006, 21:18:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Some time later, up in their private room, Korrawi seats herself on the floor, crosses her arms and legs, and sighs through her cute little pouting frown.<br><br>"Sebek is a Dragon King.&nbsp; They were predecessors to the Solar Exalts.&nbsp; I had thought them extinct, but it seems that I was wrong.&nbsp; It is likely that he will be a help.&nbsp; They were brave warriors, devoted to the Unconquered Sun, and shared many interests with their humanoid counterparts.&nbsp; In the First Age, anyway.&nbsp; They were also masters of strange magics which, to be honest, I never really understood."<br><br>After a pause, she adds:<br><br>"In spite of appearances, Mother is not of their kind.&nbsp; The dragonish motif is a common one among powerful gods and spirits, as you shall surely see.&nbsp; Her visage, as mortal hands portray her, is pure fancy.&nbsp; Mother has always been prone to whimsy in such matters, preferring not to be held to one form or another."<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>26-09-2006, 21:20:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato looked somewhat puzzled.<br><br>"If he will be a help, why do you look and sound so unhappy about it?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>26-09-2006, 21:25:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"My professional pride has been a bit stung, 'father'.&nbsp; It is not often that I am reminded that not even Mother knows and sees all, nor that all is ever explained to me and my sisters.&nbsp; I shall be fine."<br><br>Another sigh.<br><br>"Eventually.&nbsp; In the meantime, I must await Mother's inspiration concerning the task before us.&nbsp; It is not always easy."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>26-09-2006, 21:29:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Very well then.&nbsp; Perhaps I had best get some sleep in the meantime.&nbsp; Or would you prefer someone to talk to?"<br><br>He couldn't help but smile.&nbsp; As strange as Korrawi could be at times, he enjoyed talking to her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>26-09-2006, 21:34:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I do not require sleep.&nbsp; You, however..."<br><br>She giggles softly, her sudden change of mood odd.<br><br>"You should rest, 'father'.&nbsp; I shall keep watch."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>26-09-2006, 21:36:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiled a bit.<br><br>"Very well, daughter.&nbsp; Wake me if I am needed."<br><br>With that he went to the bed and fell asleep.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 17:33:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sometime during the night, Zatoichi has a dream...or at least he thinks it's a dream...of something soft and warm sliding into bed next to him.&nbsp; And then it...the woman...she kisses him gently and takes him in hand, stroking gently.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:07:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato moans softly, either in his dream or in reality, he cannot tell.&nbsp; He rolls partway toward the woman, reaching up to stroke her hair, kissing her lips deeply.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:09:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She pushes him back down on the bed, straddling him...pressing her sex against his belly and laughing softly as her long hair brushes across his face and chest.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:14:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He groans a bit in protest, his hands going to her breasts to fondle her gently and tease her nipples.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:17:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She laughs again, grinding herself against him.&nbsp; Then she rolls back until she's sitting upright and reaches back to stroke him, rubbing his head against her firm backside from time to time.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:19:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(Aww, no description of dream-breasts? heh)<br><br>He maons and runs his hands down her body, squeezing her ass softly.&nbsp; Holding her hips, he tries to position her above his length so he can penetrate her.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:22:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She doesn't seem interested in being penetrated just yet.&nbsp; Instead, she guides his hands back to her full, soft breasts and continues stroking him...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:26:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He tries to make a comment but it just comes out as a groan.&nbsp; He kneads her soft tits in his hands, moaning deeply, letting his fingertips brush lightly against her nipples.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:28:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Now she moves down on his shaft, sighing with pleasure...and in seconds she's riding him fiercely, her passionate gasps soft yet unmistakeable.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:30:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He groans louder, thrusting his hips up as she comes down on his member, his hands squeezing her breasts harder.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:32:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She gives a throaty laugh, then drops all the way down on him and grinds her hips, driving him closer and closer to his climax with every movement.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:34:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He moans deeply, giving her nipples a sharp twist, trying to hold off his climax at least until her own.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:46:10</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Suddenly she freezes, gasping aloud, her body clenching around him once, twice, again...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:56:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Unable to hold back anymore, he thrusts into her as best he can and erupts in climax with a gutteral moan.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 20:59:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She cries out sharply and clenches around him again, apparently having an additional orgasm triggered by his.&nbsp; Afterwards, she leans forward and pulls herself off of him...<br><br>"Back to sleep, 'husband'!"<br><br>And laughs quietly before Zatoichi sinks back into dreamless slumber.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>27-09-2006, 21:00:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He barely has time to wonder how real the experience was before he fades into unconsciousness once again.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>28-09-2006, 22:31:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Morning dawns, bright but chilly, to the musical sound of a small child's laughter.<br><br>"Did you have a good dream, father?&nbsp; I think perhaps you miss mother overmuch."<br><br>Huh?&nbsp; Oh...oops.&nbsp; But as it turns out, Korrawi is referring to the fact that Zato's sheets are soaked with sweat and seem to have been thrashed about violently in the night...and not, as might be inferred from her cheeky comment, anything more embarrassing than that.&nbsp; It's an excuse to get a nice, hot bath, if he wants one.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 03:10:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato stretched and got out of bed, running his fingers through his hair before standing.&nbsp; "Perhaps, daughter.&nbsp; I think I could use a bath.&nbsp; Don't get into any trouble without me."<br><br>Though perhaps his admonition didn't come out quite the way he wanted, he went for a nice hot bath.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 03:14:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Why, father, whatever do you mean?&nbsp; I am the very model of sweet and innocent..."<br><br>Her laughter follows him out and along his way to the baths.&nbsp; There, he finds his worries soak away along with his sweat...at least until a familiar voice offers to join him.<br><br>"Ahh, an early morning bath.&nbsp; An excellent idea.&nbsp; May I join you?"<br><br>Sebek's laugh sounds suspiciously like boulders rolling downhill.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 03:18:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Be my guest.&nbsp; How does this morning find you, Sebek?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 03:22:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh, fair enough...fair enough.&nbsp; A bit chilly, though.&nbsp; And I hear it gets colder, where I'm headed.&nbsp; Not looking forward to that, I promise."<br><br>Another landslide laugh.<br><br>"How about yourself, o masseur?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 04:23:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"My sleep was troubled, though not so much that my daughter lost her cheer to see me so troubled.&nbsp; Such are children in this day and age..."<br><br>He sighed and leaned back in the tub, letting the hot water try to work out whether his visitation last night was a dream or reality.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 04:34:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"She seems quite precocious...I suppose that makes her more of a trial than most," Sebek muses.&nbsp; "Still, family is family.&nbsp; Her mother is...indisposed?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 04:47:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"The less said about her mother, the better..."<br><br>Still, he couldn't help but remember the dream - or visit - last night, and feel his length stir at the memory.&nbsp; Right then he wished more than anything to meet Kowarri's mother.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 05:05:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"My apologies for prying."<br><br>Give the big guy credit, he honestly sounds apologetic...and probably assumes the worst.<br><br>"Will you be moving on today?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 05:29:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"By midday, I hope.&nbsp; Though it may take an effort to get me out of this bath."&nbsp; He smiled his usual smile a bit wider, and shifted in the water.&nbsp; "What exactly would you propose in traveling together?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 21:21:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"A most foresightful question!&nbsp; Hmm...I should perhaps work for a pittance and the occasional massage?&nbsp; No?&nbsp; Then my sword shall serve to protect you out of a sense of traveller's honor.&nbsp; There's little gain to leaving a blind man and a small child to the mercies of what bandits may lurk.&nbsp; I would not so sully the traditions of my school."<br><br>Sebek pauses.<br><br>"That is, of course, assuming that my presence is welcome."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 21:31:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am not so helpless as I appear, but your company is welcome for a time.&nbsp; So long as you make no advances on my daughter."<br><br>Zato grinned a bit, and slowly got out of the bath and began to dry himself with a towel.&nbsp; "In fact, I think I'd best check on her now."&nbsp; And so he did.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 21:37:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Sebek has a good laugh at that.<br><br>"Your daughter need fear none such from me, friend!&nbsp; For all that she is a precious child, she is still far, far too young to interest me."<br><br>He lowers his voice a bit.<br><br>"And were it else, my company would like as not be less than welcome in short order...as is your right."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 21:45:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato, with towel wrapped around himself, nodded in Sebek's general direction before returning to his room.<br><br>"Sachiko?&nbsp; Are you here?&nbsp; We'll be leaving soon, we must get ready."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 21:49:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Korrawi appears a moment later, answering him with such a sweet and light tone that it makes him immediately suspicious.<br><br>"Yes, father.&nbsp; I was packing my things for our journey.&nbsp; Will Uncle Sebek be coming with us after all?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 22:01:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"For a time, at least.&nbsp; I don't want you calling him Uncle, though.&nbsp; I still am not sure what he knows, or his intentions."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 22:05:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Korrawi looks around before answering, and her voice carries a smirk.<br><br>"Is Uncle not the usual honorific for an elder male who has yet to give offense?&nbsp; But as I am a dutiful child, I shall heed your advice."<br><br>She leaves the 'for now' unspoken.<br><br>"I have your things already prepared, so we may break our fast and then be on our way."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 22:09:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Very well then."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>29-09-2006, 22:15:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The next few days go by pleasantly enough.&nbsp; Sebek is not a difficult companion, being cheerfully stoic and neither particularly nosy nor overly talkative while on the road.&nbsp; Korrawi is also perfectly willing to uphold the illusion that she, as Sachiko, is merely a seeing-eye guide for her poor, blind masseur father...and deftly sidesteps any line of questioning that hints at digging deeper with such skill that Sebek seems to believe it's his own idea whenever the subject is dropped!<br><br>Nothing suspicious here...<br><br>Late on the fourth day, the little party reaches a small village.&nbsp; From the cries of small children running in from the fields, visitors are a happy accident of life.&nbsp; A few moments after this, a small procession starts out from the village to meet Zato and company: an elderly monk with a long beard in the lead.<br><br>"Greetings, travelers!&nbsp; Come in peace and be most welcome to our hospitality!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 04:58:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zatoichi spent the three days chatting idly, not revealing anything substantive if he could help it.<br><br>On the fourth day, he smiled as they approached the village, and smiled a bit wider when the villagers came out to greet them.<br><br>"We would greatly appreciate such hospitality, kind sir.&nbsp; We have been several days on the road, and would welcome a place to stay."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 05:06:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Excellent.&nbsp; We have only the poor hospitality of our single inn, but perhaps you will do us the supreme honor of attending there?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 18:15:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"But of course, if you do not mind leading the way for a poor blind man."<br><br>He kept his hand on Korrawi's shoulder, letting himself be led by her and the procession into the village itself, alert of course for what was around him at all times.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 18:23:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ah, of course!&nbsp; This way, please, honored guests."<br><br>The path to the inn is, from the sound of things, thronged with curious villagers, all quite happy to see someone passing through.&nbsp; The children in particular seem fascinated by Sebek, and he responds with his deep, rumbling laughter.&nbsp; All in all, it seems a happy place.<br><br>The inn itself smells of pepper and oil, spicy foods, tea, and alcohol.&nbsp; It is not long before space is cleared for the trio.&nbsp; Food and tea are both swiftly served.<br><br>"Be most welcome.&nbsp; Refresh yourselves, please."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 18:38:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Thank you most kindly, sirs and ladies."<br><br>He sat, along with Korrawi and Sebek, and ate what was given.&nbsp; Politely trying everything offered, he let Korrawi help to feed him, acting the blind man with ease (because, well, he's blind).<br><br>Once everyone is satisfied, he sits back in his chair with his same smile.&nbsp; "Never before have I enjoyed such a meal.&nbsp; After too many days on the road, one tends to forget the comforts of home.&nbsp; I am afraid we have not much coin to repay your hospitality....&nbsp; Though, I am a masseur by trade, perhaps there are some in the village who would care to indulge?&nbsp; Or would a few stories by a fire in the evening be more appropriate?"&nbsp; He smiled his smile a little wider.&nbsp; "Perhaps there will be chance for both."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 18:44:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I think we can manage both," Sebek rumbles.&nbsp; "You massage, I talk."<br><br>At the very mention of a massage, there are a number of delighted female giggles...<br><br>"Father is always very popular," Korrawi murmurs, her wicked little smile coming through in her tone all too well.&nbsp; "Must I chaperone?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 18:49:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Very well."&nbsp; Zato grinned some.&nbsp; "I do have some stories of my own, however, if there is time to share them."<br><br>Patting Korrawi's shoulder gently, he leaned in and kissed her forehead softly.&nbsp; "My dear daughter... she grows up so quickly on the road with her father."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 18:54:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Korrawi giggles.<br><br>"<em>Someone</em> must guard your virtue, Father dearest."<br><br>This little performance gets even more feminine laughter, most of it sympathetic...if nervous.&nbsp; But as Sebek settles in with another pot of tea and starts spinning a fantastic yarn about this Anathema he met once in the southlands, Zato is shown to a small room off to one side by the innkeeper (a fairly portly fellow in middle age who seems a bit nervous).<br><br>"What will you require in order to ply your trade, my good man?&nbsp; I'll see to it that you have it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 19:10:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato allows himself to be shown, wishing that Korrawi had not just sunk his chances to relieve some pressure that had built up the past several days.<br><br>"I simply need a bed or mat for the person to lie upon, and my own two hands."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 19:39:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"A mat?&nbsp; Nothing more?"<br><br>The man sounds quite relieved.<br><br>"I'll have one brought to you promptly!&nbsp; Will there be anything else?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 19:54:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"No, thank you.&nbsp; You have already been most generous."&nbsp; Zato smiled and held out a jade chit to the innkeeper.&nbsp; "I am afraid it is not much, but all I can offer in payment for now."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 19:58:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"That should m-m-more than suffice, honored sir!"<br><br>The man disappears very quickly, almost eagerly.&nbsp; A few minutes later, a woman's voice floats in through the door.<br><br>"Are you accepting customers yet?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:01:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato turns partway to the voice, though of course his ears make out the details of her.<br><br>"I am just waiting for a mat or bed for the customer's use, then I can begin."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:03:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You mean...this?"<br><br>She reaches back outside and produces a mat.&nbsp; Zato can almost hear her grin.<br><br>"We drew lots, in case you're wondering.&nbsp; And lucky me, I got to come in here first."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:15:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(OOC: Do I get a description of her? :P heh)<br><br>He smiled and stepped back so she could enter with the mat.&nbsp; "Come right in, then."&nbsp; He shut the door behind her, and kept his voice relatively low so it wouldn't carry outside the room.&nbsp; "Go ahead and disrobe, then lie on your stomach.&nbsp; I prefer to start with the neck and shoulders."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:16:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The woman is slenderly built, but her charms are certainly ample...she unrolls the mat and stretches out on it comfortably, disrobing with casual ease--no need for false modesty in the presence of the blind, right?<br><br>"Don't mind if I do..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:21:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato takes in the shape and swell of her breasts casually, hopefully not letting on that he can tell her body as well as any seeing man.<br><br>Once she lays down, he kneels beside her and lets his hands do their magic, starting with her neck and slowly working out across her shoulders.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:23:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ooooooo!&nbsp; Someone's got magic hands," she purrs.&nbsp; "Bet you keep your wife very happy."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:29:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am afraid Sachiko's mother is... no longer with us."&nbsp; It seemed the most diplomatic way to cover for it.&nbsp; And assuaged any guilt the girls might have.&nbsp; And it wasn't quite a direct lie....
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:30:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh."<br><br>The woman is silent for a moment.<br><br>"Then I don't need to feel guilty about enjoying this so much, do I?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:33:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"No need to feel guilty at all, my dear."<br><br>Once across her shoulders, he kept going down her arms, working the tension out of them slowly and deftly.&nbsp; With that out of the way, he returned to her shoulders, this time working slowly down her back.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:34:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Good..."<br><br>She shifts a little, tilting her head to one side.<br><br>"Ahhhhh..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:38:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Continuing down her back, barring objection he let his hands reach her butt, still massaging and caressing.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:40:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oooo!&nbsp; Naughty, nauuughty..."<br><br>She laughs quietly.<br><br>"That feels very, <em>very</em> nice, you know."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:48:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Mm, good..."<br><br>After a bit more fondling, he reluctantly pulled his hands away.&nbsp; This time he moved down to her feet, starting the massage at her soles and working his way up her legs, gently encouraging her to spread her legs apart.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:51:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Why, are you trying to get me completely relaxed so that you can do something else...naughty?"<br><br>The woman giggles.<br><br>"I rather think you are!"<br><br>The door suddenly slides open and swiftly closes as someone else steps into the room.<br><br>"Don't mind me, please," another young woman says, her voice high pitched and breathy.&nbsp; A moment later, Zato can hear her clothes sliding to the floor.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:53:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato grins, but continues the massage, going just above the woman's knees to begin massaging her thighs.<br><br>"I usually only serve one customer at a time.&nbsp; May I ask what you need?"&nbsp; He kept his ears attuned, however, sensing the new arrival's figure.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:55:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I'm helping," the new arrival says softly, kneeling next to him and reaching for the front of his robe, her hand brushing him through the cloth.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 20:58:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He groans softly, his grin still there and his hands still moving upward slowly.<br><br>"Is the line so long that I cannot give my full attention to one girl at a time?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:01:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The newcomer's hand worms its way inside his robes.<br><br>"Not at all.&nbsp; Please, continue with what you were doing."<br><br>His official client giggles.<br><br>"Ooo, is he hard?"<br><br>"Very.&nbsp; I think he wants to fuck you."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:11:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato couldn't help but chuckle as his hands neared his client's nether region.<br><br>"At this rate I'm going to be fucking both of you..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:14:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Yesssss..." is his client's reaction, widening her legs and almost lifting off the mat.&nbsp; <br><br>Her little friend giggles softly and strokes him slowly, then eases his robe open and bends down to flick her tongue around his head.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:16:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He gave a soft moan at the newcomer's attention, while letting his fingertips slowly tease around his client's wet petals.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:19:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ahhh!&nbsp; That' s it..."&nbsp; The woman on the mat shifts again.&nbsp; "Does she have you in her mouth?"<br><br>The answer to this is now 'yes' as the new arrival takes Zato deep in her throat, reaching over to rest one hand on the other woman's firm ass.&nbsp; She hums softly, bobbing her head up and down on him.<br><br>Zato's client laughs.<br><br>"You like her mouth?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:27:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato moaned loudly as he was deepthroated.<br><br>"It is... a very nice mouth... but it doesn't compare to... the other orifices of a woman's body..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:32:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Should I stop?" comes from below, tinged with sarcasm.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:36:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zato ran a finger along his client's delicate slit.<br><br>"Not yet... but I think she'll be... ready soon..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:42:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				At his touch, the woman on the mat squeals and tries to lift her hips again.<br><br>"Ohhhhhh...do not tease me so!&nbsp; Please, I beg of you..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:55:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grins wider and gently nudges the newcomer.&nbsp; "You see?&nbsp; I need that for another hole now, my dear..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 21:56:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				With a dissatisfied sigh, the newcomer lets him go and leans back out of the way.<br><br>"Take her, then..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 22:05:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He strokes the newcomer's hair gently.&nbsp; "Don't worry dear, you're next."<br><br>Positioning himself between his client's legs, he slowly rubs the tip of his length against her petals before pushing into her tight blossom.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 22:07:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Aaaaahhhhhhhh...oh, yes, that's <em>wonderful</em>!"&nbsp; Zato's client purrs, arches her back, and clutches at the mat cover.&nbsp; "Let...ahhh...let me turn over?&nbsp; I want to feel her tongue on me, too..."<br><br>"I thought you would never ask," the newcomer whispers softly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 22:16:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Using his strong arms, Zato flips the girl onto her back without even having to pull out.<br><br>"Just save something for me to do to her, when I am done with you, my dear."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 22:18:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The newcomer bends down to fasten her lips around the client's clit, and in seconds Zato is enjoying a full-blown three way...
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>02-10-2006, 22:20:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The experience is quite intense, and it only takes a few minutes of full-blown threesomeness before Zato himself blows deep inside the client's pussy.<br><br>Not that that diminished his arousal any great deal.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>03-10-2006, 16:33:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She climaxes a second time, laughs softly, and urges him to sit back.<br><br>"Thank you.&nbsp; That was most relaxing!&nbsp; Come, darling...let's give him a chance to recover for his next client."<br><br>"Wait a moment."<br><br>The quieter woman takes Zato in her mouth again, cleaning him off...<br><br>"Naughty girl!"&nbsp; The client laughs and reaches up to stroke Zato's cheek affectionately.&nbsp; "If you're this kind to all your clients, I suspect there shall be a few more who repay your skills before the night is through."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>03-10-2006, 19:42:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I can only hope, my dear."<br><br>Zato kissed the client's hand softly, then simply slipped his robe around himself and set aside his other belongings before letting in the next client.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>04-10-2006, 21:35:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(Alas, Nobilis will soak up a few zillion GMing cycles...but I'll be back to this whenever my head clears.&nbsp; Honest!)
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Exalted: Blind Man's Bluff (Circlemastr/Madpanda/special guest stars...)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>CirclMastr</strong> on <strong>04-10-2006, 21:55:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(Nobilis is definitely the game I'm more excited about. :D )
			</dd>
		</dl>
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