```metadata title: The Rippling East Sample - Ariadne's Codex of Strings description: '' tags: [] systems: [] renderer: V3 theme: 5ePHB ``` {{frontCover}} {{imageMaskEdge,--offset:0%,--rotation:90 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1166756408897851463/tomfarlane_a_fantasy_portrait_of_a_golden_oriental_dragon_shini_4a105dd4-bad2-417c-bcf6-68ca5a7fd282.png?ex=654ba595&is=65393095&hm=fbbcf427a6fe4a6c3956825f2c1b6b6c6b151852d261499fff174e1b007282c2&=&width=3000&height=4000){height:117%,left:-0px,top:0px,transform:scaleX(-)} }} {{position:relative,top:-30px,left:0px # The Rippling East : ## **Ariadne's Codex of Strings -- Deluxe Edition** --- }} {{banner 5th Edition Compatible}} {{footnote Discover the secrets of a windswept kingdom ruled by serpent dragons and prowling yokai. }} \page {{imageMaskEdge2,--offset:5%,--rotation:270 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1167160310625476689/Cherryland_Actually_Final_Fix.png?ex=654d1dbe&is=653aa8be&hm=145ac8533e145b91651b4d637866b4d7a13de7a34410c16bc19bef0d9443aa6a&=&width=1002&height=1002){height:100%,position:relative,left:-120px,top:-px} }} {{position:relative,top:-px,right:10px # An Introduction Woe be upon us, who condescendingly call the land of the serpent dragons, the yokai, and the arcane smiths the *Rippling East*. They do not deserve to be named in relation to the other kingdoms of the material plane -- if anything, their art, magic and invention makes *them* the center of the world. Few artisans are so reputed, few mercenaries so feared, and few emperors so shiningly mighty. : Welcome, threadseekers! Before you is the birthplace of much of what we call *civilization*. ### Divinity on Earth Mortals across the cosmos are unaccustomed to seeing the divinities they worship, irrespectively of where they direct their prayers: Dead Gods, elemental titans, and false idols are all silent patrons, for the most part. : The inhabitants of the Rippling East, who call their land Satokai, have never suffered from such spiritual shortages: their feudal lords are the Leung Dynasts, ancient serpent dragons descended from a draconic emperor, who once ruled over a united Satokai, many ages ago. : ### The Three Dynasts of Leung The Leung dragons are naturally mighty, and the worship rituals given to them by their subjects only make them stronger. Their level of power is unmatched among all dragonkind, save for Greatwyrm Yarhel of the Soulfrost Expanse, who has transcended the power of emperors to become a flying natural catastrophe. : Despite their incredible personal power, they are seldom seen outside of their palaces. Ancient and wealthy beyond belief, they have become decadent kings, reveling in gambling, exquisite foods and celestial liquors. : ### Stoicism and Brilliance Though their feudal rulers might have become passive and unbothered by terrestrial and philosophical pursuit, the same cannot be said for the mortals that inhabit their land. Blackpowder artificery, peerless magical weaponsmithing, and a variety of spiritual disciplines that bolster mind, body, and soul alike are the products of their discipline and creative curiosity. : Pilgrims from around the world make the journey to the Rippling East, through blistering deserts and cruel mountaintops, to earn an apprenticeship with a master of Satokai. Those who return to their lands go on to become great spiritual eminences, wealthy craftmasters... or even kings. }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote An Introduction}} \page {{imageMaskEdge3,--offset:45%,--rotation:180,left:450px,transform:scaleY(-1 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1167280846089244773/tomfarlane_an_oriental_demonic_palace_night_indigo_palette_fant_a127ba7a-0ad3-4f48-8038-78e94b99bb63.png?ex=654d8e00&is=653b1900&hm=36e579eef243fe59e7b224d8c48696c9ca19f17fb2f64982f591afd9cec86c56&=&width=1002&height=1002){height:100%} }} {{imageMaskEdge3,--offset:44%,--rotation:175,left:400px,transform:scaleX(-1 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1167280846089244773/tomfarlane_an_oriental_demonic_palace_night_indigo_palette_fant_a127ba7a-0ad3-4f48-8038-78e94b99bb63.png?ex=654d8e00&is=653b1900&hm=36e579eef243fe59e7b224d8c48696c9ca19f17fb2f64982f591afd9cec86c56&=&width=1002&height=1002){height:100%} }} :::::: ### Raids From the Other Side Thinking of making the journey to the Rippling East and become a master of your craft? Think twice. The elusive Oni Emperor, an old spirit of plunder and slaughter, commands an army of fiends, undead, and specters that appear in gloomy night to terrorize entire regions. Locals have a hard time dealing with them, and foreigners --dead weight-- are often left to die. There's no room for the useless when the night brings forth monsters. : These attacks follow a pattern: the disappearance of wildlife in the area, the thinning of rivers, and a stillness in the air deeply uncharacteristic of the ever-windswept Rippling East. Then, one night, a spectral palace appears, and entities better left to the imagination run amok between cherry trees and quaint riverside villages, adding a coat of blood to the picturesque scenery. : ### The Lord of Slaughter The Oni Emperor himself is rarely seen, though his figure inspires terror in even the most accomplished warriors. When you see an entire palace appear in ghastly shadow instead of just a few gloomy buildings... you're in for a long night. Or perhaps a short one, if they find you quickly. : These spectral raids count among them the spirits that are Satokai's greatest peril: the Yokai. Also known as Daemons and Wandering Oni, these beings of negative emotion are terrible manifestations of the land's afflictions, gaining more power as the emotional turmoil of the populace increases. : These Yokai are a unique phenomenon of the Rippling East, old as time, which has led many cultures of Satokai to develop philosophies that hold emotion, especially negative emotion, as an enemy. Temperance and self-discipline are a must, for the Yokai are not benevolent beings. Even one wrathful peasant puts the entire village in danger of a fiendish visit. \column ::: {{descriptive,position:relative,left:30px ##### From "Examinations", Section 11-N The Oni Emperor is an interesting phenomenon: a ruler with no land. I have long theorized that his dominion is in fact a demiplane, and that he possesses magic capable of melding parts of it with the material world for a few short hours, which they use to revel in plunder and massacre. According to legend, the objective of these spectral incursions is to purge the land of pure spirits by killing them, and to convert twisted ones into members of their horde. : My own investigations into the matter contradict these "spiritual crusade" type of explanations. They leave the villages they destroy barren and desolate, taking every karat of gold, every bale of hay, every pound of salt. That sounds like the motivation of a regular raider lord, not a ghost emperor. : Then again, their apparitions are undeniably supernatural, and the fact that the Yokai elect to ignore them... certainly gives room to think of metaphysical tales. Perhaps the truth is somewhere in the middle, as with most things. Perhaps you, dear threadseeker, will be the one to find it? I'd much appreciate getting to the bottom of this mystery, if only to satisfy my own curiosity. : Is that not why we do what we do, in the end? For knowledge, and to celebrate curiosity? : **--Guilliam Fallow, Threadmaster of Arcana & Science** }} {{imageMaskEdge3,--offset:35%,--rotation:1 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1167280846089244773/tomfarlane_an_oriental_demonic_palace_night_indigo_palette_fant_a127ba7a-0ad3-4f48-8038-78e94b99bb63.png?ex=654d8e00&is=653b1900&hm=36e579eef243fe59e7b224d8c48696c9ca19f17fb2f64982f591afd9cec86c56&=&width=1002&height=1002){height:700%} }} {{imageMaskCorner10,--offsetX:47%,--offsetY:-32%,--rotation:0 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1167280846089244773/tomfarlane_an_oriental_demonic_palace_night_indigo_palette_fant_a127ba7a-0ad3-4f48-8038-78e94b99bb63.png?ex=654d8e00&is=653b1900&hm=36e579eef243fe59e7b224d8c48696c9ca19f17fb2f64982f591afd9cec86c56&=&width=1002&height=1002){height:65%,right:-170px,top:550px} }} {{footnote An Introduction: The Other Side}} {{pageNumber,auto}} \page {{imageMaskCorner22,--offsetX:-54%,--offsetY:-60%,--rotation:0 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1167518531508777051/tomfarlane_a_spirit_realm_at_war_blue_fire_fantasy_art_fantasy__6cbd850d-9356-4caa-9f35-91a80e265f06.png?ex=654e6b5d&is=653bf65d&hm=f556d862037d1b13e0bab26e77491ea4afda27855792050f699e2c605d5e1261&=&width=1368&height=912){height:45%,left:-200px} }} {{ ##### Not All Spirits Yokai are considered evil spirits, which isn't universally true. Satokai has always been a land tethered to the *other side*, but the advent of these monstrous manifestations of emotion is fairly recent, in the planar scale. Evil spirits have always existed, but their presence has grown exponentially in the last few centuries. : This said, Yokai can also represent other emotions, such as curiosity and trickery. Kistune are small spectral foxes that cross from the other side into our world in search of fun and adventure. Their chaotic nature, though, a staple of all Yokai, still lands them in the crucible of conflict, from time to time. {{monster,frame,position:relative,top:0px ## Kitsune *Small Yokai, chaotic neutral* ___ **Armor Class** :: 13 (natural) **Hit Points** :: 7 (2d6) **Speed** :: 30 ft., fly 45 ft. ___ | STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA | |:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:| |5 (-3)|16 (+3)|9 (-1)|12 (+1)|14 (+2)|16 (+3)| ___ **Damage Resistances** :: bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing from nonmagical attacks that aren't silvered **Damage Immunities** :: necrotic, poison **Condition Immunities** :: exhaustion, grappled, paralyzed, petrified, poisoned, prone, restrained **Skills** :: Perception +4, Stealth +5 **Senses** :: truesight 15 ft., darkvision 120ft., passive Perception 14 **Languages** :: understands primordial but doesn't speak **Challenge** :: 1/2 (100 XP) ___ ***Magic Resistance.*** The Yokai has advantage on saving throws against spells and other magical effects. : ***Yokai Scent.*** Within a mile, the Kitsune can detect and follow the trace of a creature it has learned the scent of. It also detects the presence of other Yokai. : ***Ethereal Movement.*** The kitsune can move through other creatures and objects as if they were difficult terrain. It can phase in an out of the Narak / ethereal plane at will. ### Actions ***Bite.*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +4 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. *Hit* 3 (1d4) piercing damage. : ***Kitsune's Fire.*** *Ranged Spell Attack:* +4 to hit, range 60 ft., one target. *Hit* 7 (2d6) fire damage. : ***Possess (1/day).*** The Kitsune attempts to enter the body of a creature within 5 ft. of it. An unwilling creature must succeed on a DC 13 Charisma save or be inhabited by the Kitsune. At the start of the target's turn, roll a d4. On a 1, the target is incapacitated and the Kitsune takes control of the body. At the end of each of its turns, the target can repeat the saving throw, ending the possession on a success. A Kitsune can inhabit a willing target for as long as it wishes. }} }} ::::::::::::::::::::::::: {{descriptive ##### From "Ariadne's Journal", Page ??? Every land has its fair share of peculiarities -- it is our differences that make us interesting, after all! But this Rippling East, I must say, never ceases to astonish me. Me, of all people! I know, darling, it's not good for the brand. : Strange creatures, these Yokai. They are known as evil spirits, and they are! Mostly. Much like the fey, there's always exceptions. In a land overtaken by emotion and sentimentality, the beauty of nature and the playfulness of life also manifests itself in the form of small guardian spirits, such as the Kitsune. : These furry creatures are tricksters at heart, but carry with them a profound sense of curiosity. I found my spirit animal. Quite literally! Isn't that amazing? : **--Ariadne Stringweaver, Regent of the City of Strings** }} : #### Kitsune's Dust *Food & Drink, Uncommon* : The magical dust that is left in the wake of a Kitsune's phasing abilities can be gathered into a fine powder, often used as an alchemical component. It also tastes like rainbows, a mix of cotton-candy and spicy ginger, which makes it a killer seasoning. : Applying this dust to a food or drink makes it taste sweet and prickly. A creature that consumes it gains advantage on perception and deception checks for an hour afterwards, accompanied with a sugar rush that negates the effects of one *exhaustion* level for the same duration. ![kitsune](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1167816602998288545/kitsune_1.png?ex=654f80f7&is=653d0bf7&hm=7ea84f22af3fe35800a6c5a6e610a257ee11a2c770b0c838923331fa17bcd140&=&width=912&height=912) {width:455px,position:absolute,top:-10px,right:-10px,transform:scaleX(1),mix-blend-mode:darken} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Introduction: Kitsune}} \page :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: {{quote,position:relative,left:-20px I do this for Satokai. I do this for our united country, our future. I do this for our Dynasts. But most of all, I do this for Him. Our Lord... he deserves better than that... slave. Tonight, the Leung have tasked me with killing the nuisance. He needs to die. : With him out of the picture, our Emperor will transcend. He will grieve... as much as I detest saying it. But the Huran people will be blamed for the crime, and their pathetic kingdom will be razed to the ground. And I'll be by his side... forever. He will choose me, in the end. {{attribution Malathai, the Porcelain Lady}} }} \column :::::::::::::: {{position:relative,left:-0px,top:-10px ## The Narak All that live in the Rippling East know the Yokai cannot truly be vanquished. They are emotion itself, and so long as mortals feel, they will continue to manifest and haunt them. It is known. Still, the people of Satokai never falter in this unending battle. : To resist the call of the Yokai, emotion must be purged. And so, the different civilizations of these great lands found ways to limit their presence in what they call the Narak, a dimension of pure feeling that supercedes our own. It cannot truly be called the ethereal nor the astral plane, but borrows heavily from each. It is something beyond, exclusive to the land of Satokai, a spirit realm of sorts. : The greater your emotions and those of your people, the stronger your light within the Narak. And light... attracts predators. }} {{ #### Spiral Pattern Mask *Headgear, Common* : It's a simple mask depicting a blank face with a symbol of a strange spiral pattern. Many of the travelers that you have encountered on the road wear one type of mask or another. : Using a mask hides your intent. Your light within the Narak is not only determined by your own emotions, but also by all that surround and interact with you. Covering your face goes a long way in maintaining your light within the Narak small and unappealing. : You wonder if these easterners aren't a little bit too paranoid. They routinely fight and kill each other, which seems to be much more intense than the emotions on someone's face, yet insist in the use of masks. It appears to be a matter of etiquette to some of these people. }} {{imageMaskCorner31,--offsetX:-70%,--offsetY:50%,--rotation:30 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1174682412840661063/tomfarlane_a_land_of_spirits_dark_night_shadowfell_from_Dungeon_814b18ac-b546-4c4b-9a3b-7092c97a1413.png?ex=65687b3f&is=6556063f&hm=213f0eb2cb9915064436c77967af6d9b0a59b5b7671f9709f965cbc73d7759bd&=&width=4000&height=3000){height:55%,top:-150px,transform:scalex(-1)} }} {{imageMaskCorner31,--offsetX:-0%,--offsetY:70%,--rotation:25 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1174682412840661063/tomfarlane_a_land_of_spirits_dark_night_shadowfell_from_Dungeon_814b18ac-b546-4c4b-9a3b-7092c97a1413.png?ex=65687b3f&is=6556063f&hm=213f0eb2cb9915064436c77967af6d9b0a59b5b7671f9709f965cbc73d7759bd&=&width=4000&height=3000){height:55%,top:-270px,transform:scalex(-1)} }} {{imageMaskCorner31,--offsetX:-70%,--offsetY:-50%,--rotation:30 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1167540793750335619/tomfarlane_a_fantasy_illustration_of_an_japanese_island_in_the__3ae44deb-6642-4b39-b8ed-c8b75fc56638.png?ex=654e8019&is=653c0b19&hm=39acb713c508bda174981c57dd7906799e7ad101a1207c0aecf48529bd023ebb&=&width=1368&height=912){height:55%,top:550px,right:00px} }} {{imageMaskCorner31,--offsetX:-0%,--offsetY:-75%,--rotation:0 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1167540793750335619/tomfarlane_a_fantasy_illustration_of_an_japanese_island_in_the__3ae44deb-6642-4b39-b8ed-c8b75fc56638.png?ex=654e8019&is=653c0b19&hm=39acb713c508bda174981c57dd7906799e7ad101a1207c0aecf48529bd023ebb&=&width=1368&height=912){height:55%,top:550px,right:00px} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote A Land of Emotion}} \page {{imageMaskCorner10,--offsetX:34%,--offsetY:40%,--rotation:0 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1167540793750335619/tomfarlane_a_fantasy_illustration_of_an_japanese_island_in_the__3ae44deb-6642-4b39-b8ed-c8b75fc56638.png?ex=654e8019&is=653c0b19&hm=39acb713c508bda174981c57dd7906799e7ad101a1207c0aecf48529bd023ebb&=&width=1368&height=912){height:100%,left:-125px,top:-40px} }} {{imageMaskCorner10,--offsetX:-24%,--offsetY:-45%,--rotation:40 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1167540793750335619/tomfarlane_a_fantasy_illustration_of_an_japanese_island_in_the__3ae44deb-6642-4b39-b8ed-c8b75fc56638.png?ex=654e8019&is=653c0b19&hm=39acb713c508bda174981c57dd7906799e7ad101a1207c0aecf48529bd023ebb&=&width=1368&height=912){height:55%,top:500px,left:-200px} }} ![Yokai Hunter](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1167561704289341490/Yokai_Hunter_1.png?ex=654e9392&is=653c1e92&hm=bda98201e5d66f3e96c8c999067bac6b5840f7dfde7aab1019efc7041b79fadc&=&width=3000&height=4000) {position:absolute,top:70px,right:20px,width:400px,transform:scalex(1)} {{monster,frame,top:-25px ## Black Lotus Initiate *Medium Humanoid (any race), lawful neutral* ___ **Armor Class** :: 16 (black lotus armor) **Hit Points** :: 33 (6d8 + 6) **Speed** :: 30ft. ___ | STR | DEX | CON | INT | WIS | CHA | |:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:|:-----:| |12 (+1)|17 (+3)|13 (+1)|10 (+0)|14 (+2)|12 (+1)| ___ **Saving Throws** :: Dex +5, Wis +4 **Skills** :: Acrobatics +5, Stealth +5, Perception +4 **Senses** :: passive Perception 14 **Languages** :: Common and two of the Satokai Languages **Challenge** :: 3 (700 XP) ___ ***Divine Confetti.*** Black Lotus warriors use a special burning paper on their weapons. Their *Daisho* attacks are considered magical and deal an additional 1d6 radiant damage to Yokai, Undead, and Fiends. : ***Hunter's Discipline.*** The Black Lotus Initiate has advantage on rolls made to resist being charmed or frightened. : ***Unrelenting.*** When the Black Lotus Initiate is bloodied (below half their maximum hitpoints), they gain a +2 bonus to hit and damage rolls. ### Actions ***Multiattack.*** The Initiate makes two weapon attacks. : ***Daisho (katana).*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +5 to hit, reach 5ft., one target. *Hit:* 8 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage. : ***Shuriken.*** *Ranged Weapon Attack:* +5 to hit, range 60/120 ft., one target. *Hit:* 6 (1d4 + 3) piercing damage. : ***Planar Sense.*** The Initiate opens their awareness to detect planar forces. Until the end of their next turn, they are aware of the location of any yokai, celestial, fiend, or undead within 60 feet of them that is not behind total cover. They know the type of any being whose presence they sense, but not their exact identity. ### Bonus Actions ***Second Wind (1/day).*** The Initiate gains 2d10+3 temporary hitpoints, as a wave of resolve washes over them. : ***Detect.*** The Initiate makes a perception check. : ***Daisho (wakizashi).*** *Melee Weapon Attack:* +5 to hit, reach 5ft., one target. *Hit:* 4 (1d6) slashing damage. This attack can only be used if the Initiate attacked with its *Daishō* at least once this turn. ### Reactions ***Black Tooth.*** As a reaction to being reduced to 0 hit points, being possessed by a Yokai, or beginning a Yokai metamorphosis, the Initiate can poison itself with a deathly capsule it hides in its mouth. The Initiate instantly suffers 35 (10d6) poison damage. }} \column {{note,position:relative,top:620px,right:333px,background-color:gainsboro ##### Threadnotes: The Unrelenting Hunters Those that fight against the Yokai corruption never truly rest. Mostly from the Asiore people, these reckless hunters are part of the only organization that transcends the borders of the three kingdoms. They are the blade that cuts through the darkness, tasked with battling the fiends wherever they are... and wherever they may rise. : They are the Black Lotus, hunters of Yokai. Comprised of men and women that lost everything to the monsters, they hide their face under smiling masks both as a sign of authority wherever they may find themselves, but also as a cruel mockery of the Yokai themselves. The message is clear; to hunt monsters, you must be willing to become one. : And they do. Black Lotus members are notoriously difficult to negotiate with and will attempt to kill anyone that may be at risk of becoming a Yokai. Their "ends justify the means" mentality has led to the deaths of many innocents. They are not bothered by this. No benevolent nor sane person would ever join the Black Lotus. }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote A Land of Emotion}} \page {{partCover}} # I {{ ## The Crimson Isle }} {{imageMaskEdge,--offset:10cm,--rotation:180 ![Background image](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1167536706149437471/tomfarlane_a_front_portrait_of_a_mighty_samurai_fantasy_illustr_a4d51e56-e9f9-4802-aeb2-ef0af3a6661d.png?ex=654e7c4a&is=653c074a&hm=07b0073bded4a8a68cf2a6371fb2c4570fcfbfba7d4cac6de2a24ddb7d9367d8&=&width=2000&height=3002){position:absolute,top:-0px,left:0px,height:117%} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Asiore, the Crimson Isle}} \page {{imageMaskEdge3,--offset:10%,--rotation:180 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539459962904677/1167541386485174372/tomfarlane_a_fantasy_illustration_of_an_japanese_island_in_the__732cdab6-b71e-4d5a-a97f-ed270ea5b65a.png?ex=654e80a6&is=653c0ba6&hm=6d939128777b97ef2f34117367cc966d0a4f0b16009bb194c3b822e4702b52bf&=&width=1503&height=1002){height:60%,top:-60px} }} ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: # Asiore, the Crimson Isle Asiore, the realm of the serpent dragon Vazan, is the most traditional of the three kingdoms ruled by the Leung Dynasts, shielded from modernization by its towering topology and the frenetic zeal of its inhabitants. The island itself is a maze built by generations of men and women who carved stairways, dug hidden tunnels and stone walls, cutting off entire valleys from the next. : The infamous assassination attempt the Oni Emperor staged against Vazan is said to be, in part, the cause of all this excessive security and militarization : ### Strength Against Emotion The inhabitants of Asiore teach that strength is the opposite of emotion, and that the Yokai thrive because of the weakness that has taken civilization. To endure and silence bouts of passion, whatever their source may be, is the mark of a virtuous individual. : Before visiting the Crimson Isle, it is recommended to train in the art of stoicism for at least a few weeks. Even a short burst of fervor can call the Shinobi upon you, guardians of solemnity and temperance native to Asiore. These warriors will not ask questions about your bout of anger: they will simply extinguish it. \column : {{note,background-color:gainsboro ##### Threadnotes: Frenetic Guardians The Shinobi are fast, unrelenting warriors trained in the art of outlasting and outmaneuvering their enemies. Their temperance of spirit grants them durability and clarity, which is why their frenzied fighting style does not tire them out. They are used to giving their all, not merely momentarily motivated by surges of passion. : In truth, this is not how one beats the Yokai. The main purpose of the Shinobi is to quench the emotion of civilians, thus preventing the apparition of the Wandering Oni. Silent terror engenders its own kind of demons, however. }} : ### A Forlorn Glory Ever since Asiore was invaded and almost razed by the Oni Emperor, the islander civilization has folded back unto itself. They once held dozens of isles across the Sea of Crimson, but now scarcely populate five, like a turtle retreating into its shell. : This focus on defense has made them unassailable, as both sea and mountain shield their domain. And within, the vigilant Shinobi take good care of quenching the emotions of those who step out of line. Thus, Asiore is simultaneously the safest and most tyrannical kingdom of the Rippling East. {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Asiore, the Crimson Isle}} \page :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: {{monster,frame,text-align:center,position:relative,left:-30px ## Human of Asiore : *Playable Race by Ariadne's Codex* : Unbreakable temperance, stillness of spirit and peace of mind. These are the ideals of Asiore's civilization, and such principles are undoubtedly displayed by its inhabitants. To others, they may seem absent, or even cold -- but the minds of Asiorans are always at work. : Humans as they are, they still feel emotion, but take good care of hiding it beneath layers of duty and rational thought. Over time, this has made their civilization uncannily proficient in tasks that require both intelligence and steadiness. ###### Ability Score Improvement Your Intelligence score increases by 1, and another ability score of your choice increases by 2. : ###### Pattern Recognition When you are forced to make a saving throw against a spell or magical effect, you gain advantage on saving throws against the same effect for the next eight hours. : ###### Absolute Temperance When you fail a saving throw to avoid being charmed or frightened, you can choose to succeed instead. Once you use this ability, you cannot do so again until you finish a short rest. : ###### Resourceful You have proficiency with two types of Artisan's Tools of your choice. Additionally, when you roll an ability check that you have proficiency in, you can double your proficiency bonus for that roll. Once you do so, you can't do so again until you finish a short / long rest. : }} {{imageMaskEdge4,--offset:2%,--rotation:90 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105488303710543923/1167585437498482718/tomfarlane_a_stout_japanese_keep_fantasy_illustration_mountaino_30fcb939-ae72-493a-8007-d71b20981ac6.png?ex=654ea9ac&is=653c34ac&hm=43d469fb58926179fb8abda3083f6dce6189d953c136728d46a19b590fe511fd&=&width=1002&height=1002){height:100%,left:-490px} }} ![Asiore Lady](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1167577107958870110/tomfarlane_a_female_samurai_with_a_mask_in_the_style_of_a_visua_3a4cbf8c-ead0-4e82-befd-f308b70c3b9b-transformed.png?ex=654ea1eb&is=653c2ceb&hm=e9bfaf28479ec3c794bd8e90ee488bdaade52c05cf17011ca97d0b2fa1d896be&=&width=666&height=1002) {width:485px,position:absolute,top:20px,left:-40px} {{position:relative,left:35px,top:-50px ## Peerless Refiners : Some three hundred years after the Oni Emperor last touched Asiore, the island remains isolated by order of Vazan's right fist and acting regent, Kaltoven. With no trade and no wartime raids, his subjects were forced to learn how to harvest every last ounce of the Crimson Isle's resources. : They make liquor from sap, unbreakable blades out of lumpy metal, a house out of shipwrecked splinters. It is often said in the rest of the Rippling East that an Asioran can produce a feast with a pound of squirrel meat and half a head of garlic. : #### Elixir of Asiore *Wondrous item, Very Rare (consumable)* : This liquor is made from the sap of the red-leafed trees that give the Crimson Isle its name. Instead of fanning the flames of passion, negative and positive alike, this elixir stills the mind and allows for a more contemplative outlook. Some even claim it grants them a kind of foresight, slowing down reality for their eyes. ::::::::::::::::::::::: A full flagon of the Elixir contains five doses, each of which last for one hour after being consumed. The effects of drinking are cumulative. : ***1 Active Dose:*** Your elixir-induced temperance grants you advantage on Wisdom saving throws and ability checks. : ***2 Active Doses:*** Your mind is rendered free of the irrationalities of passion. You are immune to the *frightened* and *charmed* conditions. : ***3 Active Doses:*** Reality slows before your eyes, allowing you to analyze everything with additional time, though this ability hinders your reflexes somewhat. You have disadvantage on initiative checks, but gain advantage on attack rolls. : ***4+ Active Doses:*** You are rendered catatonic by the elixir. You fall unconscious until you fall below 4 doses. ![elixir](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105918269992480819/1167598094607732886/Remove_background_project_7.png?ex=654eb576&is=653c4076&hm=99cda97d19a757dc423ee573d743ebcdb3e97f34fbb801013f1e6807254bde66&=) {position:absolute,top:300px,right:-90px,width:500px,mix-blend-mode:multiply} {{watercolor5,top:-20px,left:-120px,width:560px,background-color:pink,opacity:70%}} {{watercolor5,top:460px,left:-120px,width:590px,background-color:pink,opacity:70%,transform:scaleX(-1)}} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Asiore, the Crimson Isle}} \page {{position:relative,left:-20px,top:-25px #### Assorted Distillations *Food & Drink, Varies (consumables)* : This wooden box contains a variety of Asiore's most iconic distillations. When complete, it counts three vials of each category (liquor, medicinal syrup, poison). Don't get them mixed up! : ***Liquor.*** A hearty alcoholic beverage, its main advantages are its monetary value -- and its capability of drowning demons. Figuratively, don't try it on a Yokai. : *Common* liquor is worth 2 GP. : *Fine* liquor is worth 20 GP. : *Elixir* liquor is worth 200 GP. : ***Medicinal Syrup.*** A mildly magical, thick, sickeningly sweet remedy that bolsters a body's regenerative and immune capabilities. : *Common* level medicinal syrup restores 1 hitpoint per minute for the next 20 minutes after being consumed. : *Fine* level medicinal syrup restores 2 hitpoints per minute for the next 20 minutes after being consumed. : *Elixir* level medicinal syrup restores 5 hitpoints per minute for the next 20 minutes after being consumed, and instantly cleanses any sickness. : While under the effects of medicinal syrup, you gain a +2 bonus to Constitution saving throws per rarity tier (elixir tier grants a +6 bonus, for example. : ***Poison.*** A toxic substance made with only one purpose in mind: ending a life. : *Common* level poison can be applied to food or drink, applies the poisoned condition for one hour and deals 3d6 poison damage to a target that fails a DC 12 Constitution saving throw. : *Fine* level poison can be applied to food, drink or weapons, applies the poisoned condition for one hour and deals 6d6 poison damage to a target that fails a DC 15 Constitution saving throw. Creatures who succeed on the save take half damage. : *Elixir* level poison can be applied to food, drink or weapons. It applies the poisoned condition for eight hours to a creature that fails a DC 18 Constitution saving throw. While poisoned in this way, a creature takes 4d6 poison damage at the end of each minute. If they fail the saving throw by 5 or more, they are also *paralyzed* for the duration. Elixir level poison ignores resistance to poisone damage and the poisoned condition. }} ![separador](https://png.pngtree.com/png-clipart/20220706/ourmid/pngtree-decorative-line-separator-black-lines-png-image_5687462.png) {width:325px,mix-blend-mode:multiply,transform:rotate(90deg),position:absolute,top:400px,left:245px,opacity:80%} {{imageMaskEdge5,--offset:42%,--rotation:0 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539299815989330/1168947479123873902/tomfarlane_a_shinobi_warrior_oriental_fighter_crow-like_humanoi_d48df80b-924d-4ea1-ab57-fdf7281442fc.png?ex=65539e2d&is=6541292d&hm=400ccd61d8acc63d82cbef166614a3f5061181cf03cdfcc2de95b081bc341cc7&=&width=2000&height=3002){height:247%,top:920px} }} {{watercolor9,top:-100px,left:420px,width:300px,background-color:crimson,opacity:30%,transform:rotate(-40deg)}} {{watercolor9,top:-100px,left:420px,width:-300px,background-color:crimson,opacity:30%,transform:rotate(40deg)}} \column {{position:relative,right:-20px,top:-25px #### Forage Master *Feat, no prerequisites* : You can make nature feed you like a city market would feed the common man. You gain the following benefits: : - Increase your Wisdom score by 1, up to a maximum of 20. : - When you forage, you find twice as much food as you normally would without this feat. : - Your Wisdom (perception) checks are made at advantage while in the wilderness. This affects your passive perception. : #### Unreadable *Feat, no prerequisites* : Your face shows no signs of emotion. Is it well hidden, or simply not there? You gain the following benefits: : - Increase your Charisma score by 1, up to a maximum of 20. : - Your Charisma (deception) checks made to hide your emotions or thoughts are made with advantage. : - As a bonus action, you can focus your temperance so deeply that it eludes even magical sensors (such as a *zone of truth* spell). The caster of the magical sensor is unaware of your advantage. This benefit lasts for ten minutes. : #### Distiller *Feat, prerequisite: Wisdom score of 13 or higher* : You are adept at producing spirits, syrups... and poisons. You gain the following benefits: : * Increase your Wisdom score by 1, up to a maximum of 20. : * You gain proficiency with Brewer's Tools. If you already have proficiency, you gain expertise. : * Given the right ingredients, you can distill a flask of liquor, medicinal syrup, or poison over the course of a short rest. When you do so, roll a Wisdom check using your Brewer's Tools. : ##### Distillation Results {{column-count:1 | Rarity Obtained| Brewer's Tools DC | Components' Worth | |:----------------|:--:|:--:| | Common | 15 | 5 SP | | Fine | 20 | 5 GP | | Elixir | 25 | 50 GP | }} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Asiore, the Crimson Isle}} \page {{position:relative,top:-30px,left:-20px {{text-align:center ## The Shinobi : *Fighter Archetype by Ariadne's Codex* : *"For every Shinobi you see, walking inconspicuously, there are a dozen more unseen, waiting to pounce at the first sign of aggression."* }} : #### Shinobi Stance Starting at 3rd level, you gain the ability to bolster your fighting ability with specialized stances. At the start of each of your turns, you can choose one of the following options, which lasts until you pick another option or a minute passes. Certain Shinobi work to develop their own unique stance, giving them an edge of unpredictability in combat. At the DM's discretion, you can forgo the learning of one of these stances to create one exclusive to your character, which you design with your DM. : **Mao (Cat Stance):** Your movement doesn't provoke opportunity attacks, and you roll Acrobatics and Sleight of Hand checks with advantage. : **Jiachong (Beetle Stance):** You have advantage to resolve grapple checks, and have a critical range of 18-20 when making melee attacks against creatures that are grappled by you. : **Wuya (Crow Stance):** Your jump distance is increased by 5 feet, you take only half damage from falls, and you roll Stealth checks with advantage. : You can activate stances an amount of times equal to your level in this class. : #### Shadow Warrior At 7th level, darkness and smoke become another tool of your arsenal, instead of an enemy. You gain 15 feet of blindsight and the ability to craft smoke grenades from basic ingredients. You can expend 5 GP worth of materials over the course of a short rest to craft three of them. : Additionally, you gain a +5 bonus to stealth checks while in dim light, darkness, or areas that are heavily obscured. #### Prana Blocker Upon reaching 10th level, you develop the ability to make a magical unarmed attack that hinders your target's arcane capabilities. This attack deals 2d4 force damage. On a hit, a target must succeed on a Constitution saving throw with a DC of 10 + the damage dealt by the attack, or be unable to cast spells and use magic items that require attunement. At the end of each of their turns, they can attempt the saving throw again, ending the effect on themselves on a success. : You can make this special attack an amount of times equal to your proficiency modifier in between long rests. }} {{imageMaskEdge1,--offset:3%,--rotation:270 ![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1105539299815989330/1170841393414025266/lushvn_a_painting_of_a_fantasy_female_shadow_ninja_with_a_Oni_f_1a92d99d-a6fe-4002-9841-390c87815a89.png?ex=655a8205&is=65480d05&hm=71f94a648182de122e6ca6877e613609f860b393fdd309c1b1f268710058e108&=&width=1002&height=1002){height:100%,top:px,left:120px,transform:scaleX(-1)} }} {{pageNumber,auto}} {{footnote Asiore, the Crimson Isle}} \page {{backCover}} # That's all, Folks! : We hope you enjoyed this sample of our work. We do monthly mini-sourcebooks themed around a particular flavor, and these are some of the things that await in each booklet! 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