Second Assassin expedition to the Mekong

He who increaseth knowledge, increaseth sorrow.

This article contains spoilers, meaning it has information and facts concerning Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood of Venice – Apocalypse. If you do not want to know about these events, it is recommended to read on with caution, or not at all.

This template should be removed from the article 26 May 2025.

I wanted to ask you something. Which is… what's your name?

The title of this article is conjecture. Although the subject of this article is canon, no official name for it has been given.

ACBOV Apocalypse - Observation Point — Domenico observing Cambodia

The second Assassin expedition to the Mekong was an Assassin mission undertaken in 1524 by the Italian Assassins Alif, Beatrice, Clara, and Domenico,^[1] who were accompanied by the Chinese Assassin Shao Jun. After receiving reports of a former Assassin nicknamed Colubra leading a group of warriors and sowing terror among the local population of Cambodia, the Brotherhood sent a group of Assassins to investigate. After months without any word from the first group, they tasked this second team with not only putting an end to Colubra's actions but also locating the members of the previous expedition.^[2]

History[]

Shao Jun arrived first, having already been travelling on her way to China. She arranged to meet the others at a small village near the Mekong river, though was poisoned just before they arrived, being taken care of by the women of the village. The Italian Assassins arrived to see the village attacked by the Furies, the very same group of warriors led by Colubra. They defended the village and retrieved an antidote for their ally, allowing Shao Jun to recover.^[2]

Managing to locate a diary penned by the members of the first expedition from the ruins of an old rice warehouse, the group found a lead in a drawing of a beautiful female warrior labeled as แม่ วะ.^[3] At a nearby village, after several hours of questioning the inhabitants to little success, one of the village elders told them the warrior they sought was named Mae Wa, pointing them to the jungle where they should continue their search.^[4] They followed Mae Wa's tracks to the ruins of a temple complex being used by the Furies. While observing a conversation, they noticed the soldiers enter a trance as a hissing sound began to surround the location, as if encircled by a nest of snakes. Being drawn towards a gate, the group was attacked by Sesha, a giant snake that burst from underground. They beat back the monstrous creature and explored the lair behind the gate, finding a map fragment and a broken variant of a Hidden Blade.^[5]

Following the map fragment to a river crossing, they found a small group of Furies on the opposite bank and had to swim across, given the crossing rope had been cut, though the warriors escaped in canoes before any confrontation could take place.^[6] Walking along the river banks, they found a ford and crossed it without incident, before beginning to set up camp for the night. The Assassins noticed a nearby passage that had been closed up with branches to disguise it and decided to investigate further, finding a camp with only a few sentries patrolling it. After exploring the majority of the encampment, they were forced to flee due to the guards destroying a dam in an attempt to drown them.^[7]

While traversing a valley dotted with clearings, the expedition members came upon a small group of macaques, one of which was holding a Hidden Blade. As the Assassins gave chase, the animals took it as a game, taunting the humans by backing away and climbing the trees. Completely lost, the Assassins pace through a dense curtain of leaves, only barely escaping from falling from the edge of a cliff. Peering at the blood-stained rocks at the bottom, the group understood the fate of the Assassins of the first expedition.^[8]

Further studying the diary from the first expedition, they surmised that Colubra could be in a rear base much further north, though they noted that this information did not match the intel that had been provided by the Brotherhood.^[9] At an open air market, the Assassins were ambushed by the Furies once again, this time coming face to face with Colubra and her Apple of Eden. Though she seemingly towered over the others by several feet, the Assassins managed to defend themselves. Just as Colubra should have collapsed from the combat, the Assasssins were hit with a shockwave and passed out, waking up later to a completely empty market.^[10]

Delving deeper in the jungle, the group noticed a number of changes in the environment, with animals having been corrupted and even plants taking on strange shapes. A particular "mutation" of interest to the Assassins were the "Hydras", aggressive snakes similar in appearance to Sesha. Notes in the diary attested to a link between the corrupted snakes and the mythical monster led the group to capture a few of them for further study.^[11] As they got closer to Colubra's sanctuary, the effects of the Apple seemed stronger, with the creatures being incredibly aggressive and the plants seeming to have a will of their own. The group eventually arrived at an artificial lake with ink black waters and surrounded by the smell of death and decay. Pausing on their journey to destroy the dike and purify the corrupted valley, the group also took some time to ponder on the strange legends they heard from the few people they encountered this far in the jungle.^[12]

At a temple to the serpent god near Colubra's hideout, a pair of Furies performed a ritual using the Apple of Eden seeking to control Sesha. The Assassins diverted the ceremony, sacrificing the Hydras they had captured before to weaken the giant snake instead,^[13] though they did not manage to retrieve the Apple, which was returned to the hideout.^[14]

Upon finally arriving at Colubra's sanctuary, the Assassins suffered the effects of the Apple, feeling their opponent's pain and despair. After defeating a number of Furies in combat, they attempted to seize the Apple so they could destroy it, though once again they were hit with a shockwave and thrown backwards. In addition to that, they were assaulted with visions of devastated landscapes, war and famine until they lost consciousness.^[14]

Colubra took the Apple herself, but did not attack the expedition members. Upon their waking, she declared that they would not be able to destroy the artifact, but that she was ready to sacrifice herself to do so instead. As she made her way to the Isu temple, she was attacked by Sesha, who emerged from the ground and lunged at her. Working alongside her, the Assassins defeated the snake and allowed Colubra to enter the temple knowing that neither she nor the artifact would ever come out again.^[14]

Events[]

Location-specific events[]

You decide to continue your investigation of this incredible giant snake. You tell the villagers in nearby towns about the location of the crossing and ask them about the snake. Although the name Sesha is mentioned in ancient legends and matches the description you give them, no one has ever seen this creature before.

You continue to explore the area and eventually come across a wandering pilgrim whose talkativeness is matched only by his vast knowledge of all things Hinduism. Your own knowledge of this religion being very limited, you have more difficulty understanding his ramblings than making him speak. You still manage to understand that Sesha is the name of a snake demigod. Although it is more often depicted as a many-headed serpent, its attitude and size match what you have seen previously.

As the old man looks through documents from his large leather bag, you can see what look like ancient texts as well as depictions of many snakes and Hindu deities. In these texts, it is said that Sesha will appear with his hatchlings at the “end of the world” and that they will give birth to a new kingdom where peace and harmony will reign. It is also mentioned that his offspring are in fact a part of himself and that anyone who attacks them will weaken Sesha and be punished for it.

Many people worship Sesha in one form or another, but he is almost never a threatening or evil deity.

When you ask the man if he found a reference to Colubra, he flips through the pages for a long time, but shakes his head negatively.

You thank him and continue on your way.

Monkey Bridge

You are standing at the edge of a gorge. At the bottom flows a wide river in which two crocodiles are fighting. On the other side lies a peaceful village which matches the description of one of the places crossed by the Assassins of the first expedition.

An old rope bridge connects the two sides, about one hundred and fifty feet apart. Some planks are hanging in the air and the ropes don't look very strong, but the bridge seems to be holding up...

Choose an option:
A: No time to waste! Shao Jun volunteers to lead the way. Your group follows her cautiously.
B: You attempt the crossing one by one, being very careful where you jump.

A: The bridge creaks under your weight. Suddenly a board gives way! Shao Jun barely catches herself and shouts: "We are too heavy, throw everything you can!" Discard as many Equipment cards as there are Assassins (except Shao Jun). Read 2
B: The crossing seems to take forever, but the bridge holds firm! After a few cold sweats, you reach the other shore with relief. Read 1

1: You were probably right to err on the side of caution, even if it cost you time. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge, pause, then read 2.

2: You finally make it to the village. The inhabitants are assembled in the center as if they were waiting for you. [Read Location 21]

On the Edge of the Abyss

The villagers, scantly dressed, remain motionless and stare at you. You can see the fear in their eyes.

The leader advances towards you, escorted by two men armed with bows. He speaks: "Your friends are no longer there. They were looking for Evil... and they found it." He pauses and continues: "And you, what are you looking for?"

Choose an option:
A: "We are looking for our friends. Where did they go?"
B: "We are looking for a woman named Colubra."

A: The man replies: "they have brought corruption here. Many souls perished because of them. They went that way and were never seen again." He points to location 22 on the Map of the Region. Do you want to leave without delay [Read 1] or investigate before you leave? [Read 2]
B: The man can't manage to hide his terror. "Colubra is a corrupt being, she is both everywhere and nowhere. Your friends have gone this way." He points his finger towards location 22 on the Map of the Region. One of his men brings him a package. [Read 3]

1: The villagers seem relieved to see you leave. They give you items. Draw 2 Equipment cards.
2: You find things that belonged to the Assassins! Take small card A#11 and draw 2 Equipment cards.

3: The leader gives you the things the Assassins left behind. Take small card A#11 and draw 1 equipment card.

You can see green hills in the distance. To reach them, you must cross a portion of jungle which sinks into a valley dotted with clearings.

A few columns of smoke, traces of human activity, break the monotony of the intense green of the vegetation.

You follow a path that seems endless. The cries of the monkeys become moreand more piercing and aimost threatening.

After taking several breaks, at a bend in the path, you come face to face with a small group of macaques. You are not used to these wild animals and caution prompts you to observe them for a moment.

That's when you see a reflection in the hands of one of them. Looking closer, you are convinced that it is a weapon. And not just any...

This is undoubtedly a hidden blade!

Ignoring your caution, you set off in pursuit of the monkeys who seem to take your actions as a sort of game. The small troop taunts you by backing away and climbing the trees.

You chase them, trying not to scare them. The game becomes a grueling and sometimes frightening pursuit as the cries of the macaques deafen you.

There are many af them and they are way too agile. Out of breath and completely lost, you pace through a curtain of dense leaves. Suddenly you realize you're on the edge of an abyss! You stop dead in your tracks! As you sigh with rebel, your gaze falls on a crowd of monkeys at the bottom of the cliff. Four ripped backpacks lie on a blood-stained rock. You understand that the Assassins who preceded you did not have the same reflexes as you and that they fell into the trap set by the macaques.

You look away, realizing that you can do nothing for these unfortunate people whose lifeless bodies have undoubtedly been dragged into the surrounding crevices from which eyes are spying on you.

You leave the scene before fear or rage puts you in danger.

Now you know how the Assassins from the first expedition disappeared.

You decide to go upstream to try to understand what is behind its strange behavior. The course narrows as you progress, the treetops eventually coming together and obscuring the harsh light of the burning sun.

Higher up, the river joins a lake where there is a small island. The water is strangely stagnant. A few perfectly aligned stones allow you to reach the shore of this island. The air, thick and humid, hinders your breathing. Little black dots flutter in front of your eyes. You try to chase them away like gnats, but you quickly realize that it's your eyes that are playing tricks on you.

As you set foot on the island, you suddenly plunge into darkness. The sounds of the jungle fade away. You no longer see your Assassin brothers and sisters. The ground beneath your feet is strangely hard and even.

Filaments of white light swirl around you. Fragments of unintelligible conversation, alternating between whispers and shouts, attack your hearing.

Progressing blindly, your gaze is drawn to an increasingly bright yellow dot. it forms a globe whose brilliant light pulses slowly, then faster, and finally harmonizes with the rhythm of your heartbeat.

Luminous lines emerge from the sphere, their anarchic trajectories drawing evanescent images before your incredulous eyes.

You can't repress a gasp as the images come to life and you make out the silhouette of a young female Assassin, like an animated painting whose realism grips you.

Your amazement prevents you from concentrating or analyzing anything. It's only when the images finally fade that you decide to engrave in your memory the scene you've just witnessed: The very lively conversation between the young woman and an older man, obviously a notable of the Brotherhood, their incomprehensible words, uttered in a language foreign to you, and Isabel's name, the only word that came through clearly.

You also engrave in your memories the anger of the young woman against the notable, his air full of disdain, similar to that which certain men have towards women, whatever their merits. A feeling of injustice overwhelms you...

As you continue to progress Northeast, you enter swampy terrain. Mosquitoes attack you, the air is humid and the walking is exhausting. Suddenly, you experience blurred vision again, your heart beats faster, darkness falls and a flash of white light makes you lose all your bearings.

Isabel is there, in front of you! At first, you cannot tell if it is reality or just a daydream...

The young woman has her hands tied behind her back. She is on board a Venetian ship and seems to be a prisoner of the Templars. Wounded in the face, she was undoubtedly the victim of their legendary brutality.

You can see the coast In the distance, it is strangely similar to the one you landed on a few weeks ago.

The images freeze, swirl and disappear into a great white light before crystallizing again.

The jungle IS all around you, deep and wild. Isabel is tied up, led on a forced march by the Templars, who constantly harass her. They want to know the location of some Artifact. Several women follow her, also visibly exhausted and bruised. You can't help but feel the pain and burden that each of these women carries under the rule of the Templars.

Suddenly, an arrow splits the air with a sinister whistle.

The young woman's guardian collapses, struck in the heart. The screams rise, the men become restless, panic seizes them as they fall one after the other. The woman's face lights up before your eyes, a broad vengeful smile on her lips.

The vision ends abruptly, leaving you breathless, heart racing and sweat beading on your forehead.

You explore a vast desolate plateau. Everything here exudes the corruption that you have heard about from the locals you encountered. The air is almost unbreathable, the sunlight is blinding and the stifling heat weighs like a lead weight on your shoulders.

The vegetation is reduced to a few low grasses and stunted and deformed shrubs. The only animals you come across are insects and snakes that appear out of nowhere and whose hisses make your blood run cold.

It is as if a plague had fallen on the entire region.

According to the information you have collected, this is not a natural disaster, but rather a phenomenon linked to the presence of Colubra. The only explanation that comes to mind is that this place is under the influence of the same power as the Renegade Assassin, that of the Apple of Eden.

Everything around you is desolation. The stunted trees have lost their foliage. Animal carcasses stink up the air, which has become almost unbreathable.

You approach a large cliff, its sheerness beneath your feet makes your head spin.

Suddenly, here comes the white light again, it grips your temples and projects you into another reality.

The woman is no longer young, her features are marked, her breathing heavy, her eyes darkened. She sits on an ancient stone throne, surrounded by hundreds of women and girls. The peace in their eyes washes over you and Slows the rhythm of your heart, making the dull thump in your chest stop. You feel like them, full of serenity.

The Apple of Eden is in her hand. You feel how its power transforms the fear, anguish and hatred that these women have accumulated after years of mistreatment and sometimes slavery at the hands of the Templars or other merciless men. She shapes them, unmakes them, sublimates them into a feeling of strength, self-confidence and love.

The Apple is her tool for erasing suffering. You can understand the adoration these women have for the one they call Colubra, whose real name is Isabel.

You can't help wondering what right you have to kill her. Who issued this order? Something tells you that the Brotherhood official you saw in your first vision is no stranger to that decision.

Will you serve as the arm of Justice or that of the Brotherhood?

Mystery[]

The heat assails you and your wineskins are empty. Suddenly, one of you steps into a small stream. You decide to follow it and after a short walk, you discover a well hidden pond.

A mother elephant and her calf are watering on the other side. You observe these exotic giants with great curiosity while they seem to ignore you. The water in the pond is translucent and looks drinkable... It's hard to resist it!

Each Assassin chooses 1 option below:
A: Drink water from the pond.
B: Wait for the next destination.

You leave, and a few hours later...

A: As you were drinking, you felt a slight aftertaste of slime, but you were too thirsty to change your mind! Roll 1 [star] die (regardless of the number of Assassins who made this choice):

[Assassin symbol]:Each of them recovers up to 3 [health].

[star]:Each of them recovers up to 2 [health].

[swords]:Each of them recovers up to 1 [health].

B: You regret not having drunk. You decide to suffer the effects of dehydration (1) or retrace your steps to the pond (2).

1: You're tortured by thirst, but you don't want to slow down the group. You Lose 1 [health].

2: You wasted the group's valuable time... Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge (regardless of the number of Assassins who have made this choice), [Pause] then recover as many [health] as the Assassins who previously chose A (if none of them chose A before, read A).

You move carefully through the humid heat of the jungle... Suddenly, a volley of arrows splits the air! Each Assassin suffers an attack with 1 [Star] die. [Pause]

You try to take cover, but the arrows continue to rain.

Choose an option:
A: You try to escape.
B: Choose 1 Assassin who will accompany Shao Jun to locate the origin of the shots to try to neutralize your opponents.

A: Each Assassin makes a Detection Test with 1 [eye] die. [Pause] Any exposed Assassin is hot at and loses 1 [health]. You manage to get out of range of the shots and get away from this ambush.
B: The Assassin and Shao Jun bypass the enemies as arrows continue to rain down on the rest of the group. Each of them suffers an attack with 1 [star] die. [Pause]. Shao Jun and the Assassin manage to eliminate several enemies, the others flee. You can Pursue them (1) or search their camp (2).

1: You quickly reach your targets thanks to your Assassin skills and it was definitely worth it because you intercepted one of them. You decide to spare her life and in exchange, she shows you a shortcut. Make your next Journey for O [green cube].

2: Your opponents have left equipment behind. Draw 2 Equipment cards.

As you progress through the jungle, you see in the distance a motionless figure hanging from a tree by one foot. She was probably caught in a trap. Is she still alive?

You approach, scanning the ground to avoid suffering the same fate... When you are only a few dozen meters away, you notice that it is an enemy Stalker. This might be an opportunity to find out more!

Choose an option:
A: You move even closer to see if she's still breathing.
B: You decide to give her the finishing blow, then search her.

A: She's still breathing! You help her regain conciousness. She stares at you suspiciously and asks you to untie her. You can release her without delay (1) or leave her tied up [it might be easier to get her to talk] (2).
B: Shao Jun interrupts you and says, "Are you really going fo sully the honor of the Brotherhood by taking the life of a defenseless enemy?" You change your mind and decide to spare the captive. Read (2).

1: Charya thanks you for freeing her. The time spent away from Colubra's grip has helped her see things more clearly. She decides to help you. Take small card A#09. [Pause] [slashed eye] Add large card A#08 to the [encounters] deck and shuffle it.

2: She remains silent: You've probably put her through one too many trials... You do everything you can to convince her to change her mind, then you release her. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge [Pause] and read 1.

You are busy chasing away mosquitoes when suddenly the ground collapses beneath your feet. You find yourself at the bottom of a hole in the middle of bones among which you can discern a few objects. You search around hoping to find one that will get you out of here. Draw 2 Equipment cards. [Pause]

After about an hour, two men appear at the top and throw you a rope: "We're going to get you out of there! Let's start with your equipment!"

Choose an option:
A: You trust them. Set aside a total of 3 Equipment cards from your Assassin boards.
B: You suggest they take Shao Jun out first, at the risk of offending them...

A: Once the last object reaches the top, the rope does not come back down. You call both men, but you get no answer. Looks like you got fooled! Read 1.
B: "We offer you our help and you don't trust us?" They leave you to your fate... Read 2.

1: You hear two arrows whistling, followed by two collapsing bodies... Charya, the stalker you freed some time ago, appears with a smile on her face. She throws you the rope and says "I have your equipment!"Get back the Equipment cards that were set aside.

2: After long hours of effort, you finally manage to extricate yourself from the pit on your own. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge.

You approach two large huts. Numerous wicker baskets, usually used to transport snakes, are scattered on the ground, some lying on their side and open. This place looks like a farm where snakes are bred.

There is not a soul alive, With a little luck, you might find some equipment, or even antidotes against cobra venom...

Choose an option:
A: You discreetly approach the huts to search them.
B: You advance towards the huts, stamping your feet to scare away any snakes.
C: You look around hoping something is going to happen.

A: You reach the huts without incident. They seem to have been abandoned for a long time. At first glance, there is nothing interesting. You can leave the premises (1) or take a few minutes to search each hut (2).
B: Still no trace of snakes. You feel a little ridiculous, but at least you're safe... Read A.
C: Time passes...still nothing. Choose an option: Advance discreetly towards the huts to search them (2) or wait a bit more (3).

1: You get back on the road.
2: After a few minutes of searching, you find a small vial filled with a reddish liquid. Take small card A#17.

3: Nothing. Still nothing. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge [Pause]. You decide to search the huts. There's no one there, but you find a small vial filled with a reddish liquid. Take small card A#17.

You arrive near a pond into which a waterfall flows. You've been on the road for hours and your legs are starting to hurt.

You know you should keep going, but some of you need to rest. You could also take the opportunity to catch some fish and prepare a nice meal. Fishing with your bare hands looks complicated, but you've already seen kids do it, so why not...

Choose an option:
A: Take a long break and try to prepare a meal.
B: Get back on your way.

A: Decide what each Assassin will do: Rest or try to fish with their bare hands. [Pause] If 1+ Assassins decided to rest, read 1. [Pause] Then read 2, whether the Assassins chose to fish or not.
B: The muscles in your legs ache, as well as your feet, but you realize the urgency of your quest and you decide that you must continue at all costs. Read 3.

1: A long break in the shade of the trees... Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge (regardless of the number of Assassins who have made this choice).[Pause] Assassins who have rested recover 2 [health]. Note: Do not forget to read the end of A.
2: Each Assassin who chose to fish rolls 1 [star] die. For each [star], 1 Assassin recovers 1 [health]. For each, all Assassins recover 1 [health]. If no Assassin recovers any thanks to fishing, read 3.

3: Each Assassin loses 1 [health].

You arrive on a hill overlooking the valley. The view is spectacular! As Shao Jun is about to leave, she notices footprints heading towards some sort of stone well. You look deep down, but you can't see anything: It’s way too dark.

One of you leans over and tries to see more clearly, but it's no use. However, you hear muffled voices...

Voices? Here!?

Choose an option:
A: Designate 1 Assasin who will silently climb down to the bottom to investigate what is happening there. [Pause]
B: Before an Assassin climbs down, light a torch and throw it to illuminate the bottom of the well.

A: The descent is agonizing: You have no idea how deep this well is... After a few minutes and a lot of efforts, you finally touch ground. It is soft, is it mud? Suddenly you feel a sharp pain in your calf. A snake bit you! You lose 1 [health]. [Pause] Decide what to do: Leave this place as quickly as possible (1) or ask other Assassins for help (2).
B: The torch reveals only a few snakes moving away from the flame. You can see more clearly now. Read 3.

1: The Assassins throw you a rope and quickly extract you from the well.
2: The Assassins throw a torch. Read B.

3: At the bottom, an opening leads to a narrow tunnel. You get on all fours and move slowly. The voices are getting closer and closer and you can see two guards talking. You manage to steal a document from them before leaving. Take small card A#14.

You approach an imposing stone structure that juts out from the treetops. You climb it to scan the surroundings. The jungle looks less hostile from up there... Looking behind you, you can see a thin column of smoke rising towards the sky and you decide to retrace your steps. After about twenty minutes, you reach a camp. A fire is slowly dying and the place seems deserted.

How could you have passed by this camp earlier without seeing it?

Choose an option:
A: You approach the camp stealthily to search it.
B: You observe your surroundings before moving.

A: You enter the camp and start searching it, but suddenly one of you feels a sharp pain in the back! Enemies, their faces painted black and white and armed with strange hidden blades, have ambushed you! A random Assassin (except Shao Jun) loses all their [health] except 1. [Pause] Choose: Flee (1) or fight (2).
B: You detect three enemies hiding in the trees above the camp. It looks like they're waiting for you, but they haven't spotted you. You take out your weapons and walk around them. Read 3.

1: Shao Jun loses 2 [health]. You manage to escape.
2: Each Assassin may decide to expose themselves and lose 1 [health] to add 1 [star], then roll a total of 8[star] dice. If you get 6+ [star]/[Assassin symbol], read 3. Otherwise, you must flee. Read 1

3: The enemies were quickly eliminated, but one of them who was standing at a distance managed to escape. [slashed eye] Add large card A#52 to the Event deck and shuffle it.

After a tiring day of walking through the jungle, it's time to set up camp for the night. Through the clouds, the moon illuminates the surroundings with a pale glow.

You haven't met anyone in a long time. Apart from some potentially hostile animal noises, it seems there is nothing to worry about.

Now it's time to organize the team...

Each Assassin chooses 1 option below:
A: Go hunting and prepare a hot meal.
B: Keep watching and monitor camp.
C: Rest and regain strength.

Before reading A, B or C, if less than 2 Assassins have chosen B, a pack of dholes (wild dogs) approaches your supplies... You can collect your weapons and hunt them (2) or keep a low profile (3).

A: Roll 1 [eye] die for each Assassin who made this choice. [Pause]: If you remain incognito, you kill a prey and prepare a meal, read 1.
B: The night is calm. Your vigil may have discouraged potential intruders, but you are tired. You lose 1 [health].
C: If 1+ Assassins chose B, you manage to get some rest. Recover 1 [health].

1: For each meal prepared, all Assassins recover 1 [health].
2: Each Assassin can lose 1 [health] to add 1 [star], then roll a total of 7 [star] dice. If you get 5+ [star]/[Assassin sybol], you chase the dholes. Otherwise, each Assassin suffers an attack with 1 [star]. [Pause] In this case, read 3.

3: The dholes steal your food supplies. You must spend the next morning hunting. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge.

Under a blazing sun, you cross a large rice field bordered by a river. As you take a break to cool down, you hear a voice behind you: "Here they are!!" You turn around and you discover a group of around ten Stalkers approaching, threatening you with their armed bows.

One of them turns around and rushes towards the jungle. Does she intend to raise the alarm?

No time to waste!

Choose an option:
A: You draw your weapons and wait for your opponents with firm footing.
B: You throw yourself at your enemies, weapons in hand! Shao Jun sets off in pursuit of the Stalker who left the group.

A: You have a few seconds to prepare. Each Assassin (including Shao Jun) rolls 3 [star] dice +1 [venom] die if they possess Poisoned Shurikens. [Pause] If each Assassin gets 2+ [star]/[Assassyn symbol]/[venom], you win the fight hands down, read 1. Otherwise, you barely win the fight (remember your dice results), read 2.
B: Each Assassin (except Shao Jun) rolls 3 [star] dice. If each Assassin gets 2+ [star]/[Assassin symbol], you win hands down, read 3. Otherwise, you barely win the fight, read 4.

1: It's a victory... but the Stalker ran away and the alarm was triggered! Take small card A#56 and follow its instructions. Note: If that card is not in slot #, ignore this point.
2: Each Assassin who scored less than 2 [venom]/[star]/[Assassin symbol] loses 2 [health]. Read 1.
3: Shao Jun stopped the Stalker from sounding the alarm and all the others perished.

4: It was tough, but you did it! Each Assassin who failed loses 2 health. Read 3.

You arrive at the top of a hill at the end of the day. From here you can see a few huts and a campfire around which eight figures are sitting. Here and there, other people go about their business.

As you cautiously approach the village, you can see a Stalker who appears to be standing guard. They settled there! You won't be able to rest here, but you could at least try to steal a few rations of food...

Choose an option:
A: You attempt an infiltration despite the risk (there are about fifteen warriors in this village).
B: You wait until it's dark to infiltrate the village.
C: You go around the village and continue on your way.

A: Roll a total of 3 [eye] dice. [Pause] If you remain incognito, read 1. If you are exposed, the fight begins! Each Assassin suffers an attack with 3 [star] dice. The Enemies are put out of action. Read 2.
B: You take advantage of the wait to rest. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge [Pause]. Each Assassin recovers 1 [health]. [Pause] You sneak into the village... Read 1.
C: To get around the village, you have to cross a swampy area, which slows your progression. Furthermore, you're torn by hunger. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge. [Pause] Each Assassin loses 1 [health].

1: The pot on the fire is still hot. You hastily fill a few bowls and leave the village. Each Assassin recovers 2 [health].

2: During the fight, two scouts ran away to raise the alarm! Take small card A#56 and follow its instructions. Note: If it is not in location #, ignore this point. Read (1).

You reach a canopy which shelters five elephants tied to a rudimentary railing. The ground is littered with banana peels and the trough ts filled with water. It looks ike someone is taking care of these pachyderms, but you don't see anyone in the surrounding jungle.

Continuing your journey on the back of elephants would be great, but you're not going to lower yourself and steal them! And even if you did, would these animals obey you?

Choose an option:
A: You shout to try to call the owner.
B: You hide while waiting for the owner to return.

Before reading A or B: [slashed eye] add large Card A#57 to the deck of ? cards and shuffle it. [Pause]

A: You shout and nothing happens. You shout again and a few minutes later, a group of men probably attracted by your shouting appear and attack you! Read 1.
B: After a few dozen minutes, a group of suspicious individuals approaches the elephants. It looks lke they re about to steal them. You decide to attack. Read 2.

1: You are totally surprised by the attack! Roll a total of 6 [star] dice. [Pause] Read 3.
2: Roll a total of 8 [star] dice. [Pause] Read 3.
3: If you get 5+ [star]/[Assassin symbol], you win easily! Otherwise each Assassin suffers an attack with 2 [star] dice. Each smoke bomb used allows you to avoid 1 [star].

IN ALL CASES READ: The owner of the elephants having still not appeared, you continue on your way.

You have reached a road that you have been following for several hours. What a relief to be able to move forward without tiring yourself out by cutting your way through the thick vegetation with - step you take!

As a light rain begins to fall, you can hear screams behind you. You turn around and see a young boy running towards you, gesturing wildly, But what surprises you more are the five elephants running behind him and make the ground thump under their feet!

Choose an option:
A: You run towards the boy to try and help him.
B: You move away from the road to try to find shelter.
C: You wait there to see if there really is any danger.

A: The closer you get to these animals, the more you realize how colossal they are... Was it really a good idea to head straight for them?! Read C.
B: After a hundred feet, you turn around. Everything is calm. The boy calls you and you retrace your steps. Read C.
C: The boy doesn't seem worried. He's been looking for you ever since you stopped some thieves from stealing his elephants. He wants to thank you and offers you a ride on his elephants, You choose to accept without quid pro quo (1) or offer him 2 pieces of your Equipment ([give card]) in exchange (2)

1: The young mahout helps you get on his elephants, then the caravan sets off. Your next Journey is 0 [green cube].

2: The young mahout is delighted! He teaches you a few words in his language so that you can give orders to your mounts, then the caravan sets off. Your next Journey is 0 [green cube]. [Pause] Take small card A#24 if available.

As you progress on a path obstructed by numerous roots, you see the silhouette of a child coming towards you. Once you get closer, you realize that she is carrying an apparently empty bag and that she has a scratch on one arm that looks recent. She explains that she was bringing food to her grandmother, but the monkeys stole everything from her...

She looks totally helpless.

Choose an option:
A: Choose 1 Assassin who gives her one of their food rations.
B: Choose 1 Assassin who offers her one of their Equipment.
C: You tell her there's nothing you can do for her.

A: Your generosity honors you, but hunger makes the Assassin lose 1 [health]. Read 1.
B: The littie girl answers: "If you give me one more piece of equipment, I will be able to exchange it for food." If you accept, discard 2 [black] cards then read 1 Otherwse, read 2.
C: She says. "It must be difficult for you too" and she continues on her way, crying. You're going to have a hard time regaining your morale after that...

1: The little girl thanks you. She draws shapes on the ground with a stick. You realize it's a map of the surroundings! Make your next Journey for 0 [green cube].

2: You tell yourself that the children are spoiled and you keep your equipment. Read C.

After a few hours of walking, you take a break on a path near a rice field. Everything is calm and some of you are dozing off. Each Assassin recovers 1 [health]. [Pause]

The only sounds you hear are those coming from the jungle. The only ones? No. You also hear women voices approaching. Lurking in the shadows, you can see a patrol of Stalkers heading straight towards you!

Choose an option:
A: Improvise an ambush.
B: Move out of the way and hope you won't be seen.

A: There are as many Stalkers as there are Assassins. Each Assassin can use 1+ Poisoned Shurikens and/or 1+ Cobra Baskets in their possession before rolling the dice [Pause]

Poisoned Shurikens: Rll 1 [star] die. If [star]: Eliminate 1 Stalker. If [Assassin symbol] Eliminate 2 Stalkers. If X: Nothing happens. [Pause]

Cobra Baskets: Discard the cards and roll the [venom] dice Each [venom] Eliminates 1 Stalker. [Pause]

If all Stalkers have been Eliminated, read 1. If 1+ Stalkers survived. read 2.
B: Roll 1 [eye] die per Assassin. [Pause] If everyone succeeds, you remam incognito. If 1+ Assassins are exposed, read 3.

1: The attack was effective. You find a map in a bag. Take small card A#12.
2: They flee and disappear.

3: You have to fight, but you're not ready! Roll 3[star] dice. [Pause] If you get 2+ [star]/[Assassin symbol], you are victorious! Read 1. Otherwise, you barely win the fight: Each Assassin suffers 1 attack with 1 [star] die.

You struggle to make your way through the overgrown ruins. In front of you, a building rises a hundred feet into the air. You're getting closer...

Once in front of the temple, a thick trellis of creepers blocks what appears to be an entrance. With a little time or sharp weapons you should be able to get inside.

Choose an option:
A: You draw your weapons to cut the creepers (hoping they won't be damaged).
B: You try to find something in your Equipment to pull out the creepers.
C: You move on.

A: Roll the [star] dice of 1 Assassin's [melee] weapon [Pause] If you get less than 2 [star]/[Assassin symbol], read 3, otherwise. you enter. It's dark... Suddenly you hear a noise... Choose an option: Designate 1 Assassin who enters immediately (1) or wait for your vision to adapt to the dark (2).
B: If an Assassin has a grapple, you damage it to remove creepers [give black card] [Pause], read 2. Otherwise, you clear the passageway by hand. It takes a long time... Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge [Pause] and read 2.
C: You walk away from the temple, but you may have missed something...

1: The Assassin enters and screams! He has been bitten by a monkey. He loses 1 [health]. [Pause] In a corner, there is a chest. You open it and you discover a map! Take small card A#10.
2: A macaque is hiding in the dark. You chase it away easily. You open a chest and find a map. Take small card A#10.

3: The entrance is clear, but the weapon has been damaged. You spend a few hours repairing it. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge, [Pause] and read 2.

The sun begins to set when you see the top of a temple which seems gigantic in the distance. If you climbed it, you would have a breathtaking view of the surroundings!

As you approach it, you realize that you underestimated the size of this building. It's at least two hundred feet high. Of course that doesn't deter you: You have already climbed much taller towers in Italy's largest cities!

Choose an option:
A: Choose 1 Assassin who will climb the temple.
B: You challenge yourselves: "The first one to reach the top can use other people's Equipment!"

Before reading A or B: The climb promises to be perilous, especially as night begins to fall. It would probably be wise to take some weight off your shoulders before climbing...

A: The Assassin may discard as many [black] cards as they wish. [Pause] Roll as many [star] dice as [black] cards left in their possession. [Pause] Read 1.
B: Each Assassin can discard as many [black] cards as they wish. [Pause] For each Assassin, roll as many [star] dice as the number of [black] cards left in their possession. Read 1.

1: If you get 0 [star] or fewer [star] than [🛡], all goes well. Otherwise, the Assassin slips, barely catches himself and loses as many [health] as [star] rolled. [Pause] In both cases, you reach the top. You can look at 2 of the Location stickers in contact with the one where you are. If you chose B, read 2.

2: The Assassin(s) with the fewest [black] cards arrive first. Each of them can choose 1 Equipment card from 1 loser's board.

In a small village on the edge of the jungle, a man watches you from afar and seems interested in you... or maybe in your equipment? Annoyed by his insistent gaze, one of you approaches him and tries to find out more.

The talkative man claims to be a blacksmith in exile. He had to abandon his house and his forge. He asks if you have a blueprint for crafting iterns.

Check your Blueprints [Pause] then choose a reply:
A: "Yes. What services do you offer?" If you choose this option, you must have the [white] and [black] cards required to craft the Blueprint that interests you.
B: "Maybe... But how do we know you are really a blacksmith?"
C: "No thanks."

A: "Your trust honors me! I can craft weapons at the best price." Choose an option: Accept (provided you have the required [white] and [black] cards) (1) or try to negotiate (2).
B: You upset him. "I was one of the blacksmiths of the late ruler Damkhat Sokenthor. Is this enough proof for you?" Choose: You decide to trust him (provided you have the required [white] and [black] cards) (1) or you continue to doubt and you leave (3).
C: Read 3

1: Choose 1 of your Blueprints. [Pause] The blacksmith crafts it for 1 [white card] less.
2: Choose 1 of your Blueprints. [Pause] "I will forge this weapon without my apprentice, it will be cheaper, but it will take longer." Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge. [Pause] The man crafts the weapon for 2 [white card] less.

3: The disappointed blacksmith watches you leave...

Encounter[]

In a clearing, you discover a teenager crouching, his back facing you, and perfectly still. As you approach, without turning around, he gestures for you to stay back. As you move to the side, you discover with amazement that a king cobra is standing tn front of him!

In a few seconds, the boy manages to capture it using a stick with a hook. With a victorious smile, he places the cobra in one of the baskets behind him, then he challenges you to charm it...

Choose an option:
A: Designate 1 Assassin who will take on the challenge.
B: You decline and offer to exchange one of his baskets for some of your equipment.

A: The boy places the basket three feet away from the Assassin. He lifts the lid delicately The cobra rises in a flash! The Assassin takes a sight step back, which makes the boy smile... Choose an option: You take the pungi and start playing it to try to charm the reptile (1) or you change your mind (2).
B: The kid agrees to exchange a cobra basket for two pieces of your equipment. You give them to him but you are abruptly interrupted before you can retrieve the basket. Discard 2 Equipment cards [Pause] and read 3.

1: For a few minutes, the cobra undulates following the cautious gestures of the Assassin. The young man wishes to reward you. Take up to 2 cobra baskets from the Equipment deck (or if there are none yet, from slot A1.3).
2: The teenager seems disappointed... Read 3.

3: Suddenly, six enemies come towards you! The boy hides his cobras in the tall grass. The snakes attack two enemies. The others run away, terrified. Permanently remove (X) the Clear Cut Event card.

You progress painfully, cutting your way with your swords through the thick vegetation when a woman's cry rings out and freezes you in place. You wait a bit, but nothing happens. The surrounding jungle suddenly became silent...

Choose an option:
A: You rush in the direction of the scream.
B: You remain on your guard and wait cautiously.

A: A motionless Stalker with no apparent injuries lies on the ground. She was probably poisoned. As you approach, she opens her eyes with difficulty and desperately tries to say something... You try to find out what she wants (1) or if one of you has an antidote, you can give it to her [give black card] (3).
B: You wait a few minutes... Nothing happens. You then decide to move closer to where the scream came from. After traveling about a few hundred feet, you discover the body of a lifeless Stalker. You search it. Read 2.

1: She stammers a few words before losing consciousness. You decide to search her (2) or if one of you has a Medicine, you can give it to her [give card] (3).
2: Draw 1 Equipment card.

3: The grateful Stalker informs you that she will help you as best she can in the future. Discard permanently (X) the "Investigation (I)" Equipment card.

You see an isolated hut on the edge of the jungle. As you approach, you notice a young woman lying on the steps. She calls to you from afar: "I'm hurt, I can't get up... Come and help me!"

She seems to be alone and does not appear to pose any threat.

Choose an option:
A: You tell her that you will try to find help and you continue on your way.
B: You approach to help her.

A: The girl is desperate. She gives you a dejected look then collapses. You leave, knowing that where you are going, you are unlikely to find help...
B: You approach the hut... In a flash, men armed with bows surround you and claim one of your weapons. Shuffle the [melee weapon] cards on the Assassins boards and draw 1 at random: This is the one that interests them. [Pause] Decide what to do: Give the weapon to the thieves (1) or refuse (2).

1: Discard permanently (X) the card.

2: Attack! 1 Assassin can decide to create a diversion by losing 1 or 2 [health] to add as many [star]. Roll a total of 8 [star] dice [Pause]. If you get 6+ [star]/[Assassin symbol], you win! Keep your [melee] weapon and draw 3 Equipment cards. Otherwise, decide what to do: Discard permanently (X) the [melee] weapon or continue the fight. In that case, each Assassin suffers an attack with 2 [star] dice. The thieves flee, you keep the weapon.

A fully tattooed man stares at you as you walk towards him. When you get close enough, the poker-faced man reaches into a large bag without taking his eyes off you.

Choose an option:
A: One of you rushes at him, deploying their hidden blade.
B: You smile at him calmly, waiting for what's to come.

A: Your blade is only inches from the man's throat when he takes his hand out of his bag with the utmost caution. He remains frozen, a bottle in his hand... He just wanted to exchange equipment with you! Will your gesture complicate negotiations? Read 1
B: The man gives you a broad smile revealing teeth from chewing betel. You can barely hide your disgust! He takes some out of his bag, starts chewing and then offers you some. Accept (1) or politely refuse (2)

1: The man seems willing to barter. Draw 5 Equipment cards. [Pause] You can acquire 2 by discarding 1 of your Equipment, or 4 by discarding 2.

2: The man seems upset, but he nevertheless offers to barter. Draw 3 Equipment cards. [Pause] You can acquire 1+ in exchange for that many of your Equipment cards.

You reach a small village made up of rudimentary huts. The rather puny inhabitants observe you with curiosity. There are more and more of them and they are getting closer...

A few young children touch your clothes and your hands while women present you with dishes that look very appetizing, especially since you have been looking for something to eat in the jungle for hours...

Choose an option:
A: You exchange your possessions for a good meal in the hope of regaining your strength.
B: You hit the road again hoping that you will find something else to eat further on...

A: "To offer you this food, our village will have to fast." You understand that this meal is going to cost you more than you imagined... Choose an option: Give as many [black] cards as there are Assassins in play (except Shao Jun) in exchange for a good hot meal (1) or leave the village on an empty stomach, read B.
B: You make your way through the jungle, desperately looking for something to eat other than boiled roots... Night falls and there's still no sign of any decent food! Read 2.

1: The rice, grilled frogs and fruit are delicious, but you've lost precious time! Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge.[Pause] Each Assassin recovers up to 2 [health].

2: Each Assassin loses 1 [health].

You approach an altar that overlooks a a beautiful valley. An old man is sitting there, in deep meditation. He is surrounded by numerous offerings and glowing incense sticks. Their woody scent washes over you as you approach him.

Judging by his outfit and the sword he carries at his side, the man appears to be a martial arts master.

Choose an option:
A: Respectfully interrupt the old man's meditation and ask him if he would be willing to share his knowledge with you.
B: Suggest that Shao Jun go and meditate alongside him.
C: Give him a friendly wave before getting back on the road.

A: The old man slowly turns around, then looks at Shao jun in silence, completely Ignoring your words. "You must be the one who dances with the wind. I can teach you some techniques." Choose: Accept (1) or politely refuse (2).
B: Shao Jun agrees. She sits next to the old man and closes her eyes. He slowly turns his head towards her. They exchange a few words, then stand up. Shao Jun gestures for you to wait. Read 1.
C: Read 2.

1: They begin a choreography that Shao Jun repeats for hours and hours. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge. [Pause] Shao Jun emerges transformed... Replace her card with large card A#44 and add 1 [health]. [Pause] Permanently discard (X) Shao Jun's previous card.

2: "Maybe our paths will cross again." The man whispers a blessing and wishes you good luck. [slashed eye] Add large card A#45 to the [Encounters] deck, then shuffle it.

On the side of a road, you come across an old man in deep meditation. He faces a small altar filled with numerous offerings. It is the old martial arts master you met a few days ago!

He hears you coming, turns to Shao Jun and says "The one who dances with the wind... I knew our paths would cross again. Would you like to train with me today?"

Shao Jun responds (choose an option):
A: "Yes thanks. It's a good time.
B: "Unfortunately, I have to refuse once again. Please accept my apologies. The common good comes before my personal interests."

A: Shao Jun follows the old master. They stand side by side and begin a choreography she repeats faster and faster. You are captivated by the grace of their movements. Two hours later, the old man finally sits down and closes his eyes. You understand that the lesson 's over. Read 1.
B: "That's wise. You have all my gratitude and that of my people. Do you need something?" says the old man. Choose an option: "Yes please.” (2) Or "No thank you, We wouldn't want to deprive you of anything." (3)

1: Tick 1 box on the Threat gauge. [Pause] Replace the Shao Jun card with large card A#44. [Pause] Store Shao Jun's old card in slot A1.2.
2: Two puny children bring you some equipment. Given their sad appearance, you regret accepting... Draw 2 Equipment cards.

3: The master rewards you with a broad, benevolent smile. You continue on your way...

You reach the edge of the jungle. In front of youstretches a plain dotted with banana trees. In the distance, a thin smoke attracts your attention. You reach a small camp where a man, apparently alone, !s smoking a pipe.

The bow and leopard skin next to him seem to indicate that you are dealing with a big cat hunter. And the bloody bandage around his leg probably hides a nasty wound...

The hunter invites you to come and sit next to him to share a jasmine tea.

Choose an option:
A: You try to learn more about the hunter's presence in the area.
B: You offer him one of your Medicine to treat his injured leg. In this case, discard 1 Medicine. [Pause]

A: "A woman with a black and white painted face asked me to hunt a leopard." You understand that it is a Fury! Choose an option: You try to convince the man to abandon his hunting project (1) or if you have a Medicine, you offer it to him [give black card] [Pause] to try to get more details (2).
B: The man thanks you. He tells you that a Fury promised him a nice sum to hunt a leopard that would terrorize the region. He adds one last point that catches your attention... Read 2.

1: He negotiates... Choose an option: Each Assassin gives 1 [black] card (3) or You refuse (4).
2: "The leopard devoured several Furies." You try to dissuade the hunter: This beast would be more useful alive than dead! Read 1.
3: Deal! You can always count on the leopard to make bodies disappear.
4: "In that case, I will eliminate him."Read 5.

5: Discard permanently (X) the "Leopard" event card.

Ruins[]

As you approach a ruined building, you hear voices. You move carefully... Four Vipers in their impressive armor sit in a circle. You realize that it will be difficult to go unnoticed. Behind them, in a dark comer, you see a large red chest.

From time to time you hear loud noises that sound like banging. Could they come from the chest?!

Choose an option:
A: Designate an Assassin (except Shao Jun) who will try to sneak close to the chest.
B: You move on.

A: The designated Assassin must either make a Detection Test with 1 [eye] die, or throw [black] one of their smoke bombs. [Pause] If they become exposed, the Assassins come to their rescue, read 1. Otherwise, read 2.
B: As you make a detour to avoid the Vipers, one of the Assassins falls into a trap! This Assassin, determined at random, suffers an attack with 2 [star] dice. [Pause] You free him and continue on your way.

1: Assassins take up the fight! Take a total of 8 [star] dice. Before rolling, Assassins can use 1+ Venom Equipment cards to add as many [Venom] dice. [Pause]. If you roll at least 6 [star]/[Assassin symbol]/[venom] you win! Read 2. Otherwise, you must flee and each Assassin suffers an attack with 1 [star] die.

2: You open the chest. A monkey jumps on your shoulder, obviously happy to get out of there. Take small card A#07.

You move through the ruins of some older buildings and enter an ancient temple. A majestic sculpture of Buddha seems to gaze at you with a benevolent smile.

But your good mood is short-lived: You can see about fifteen silhouettes busy searching the temple. They haven't noticed your presence yet...

Choose an option:
A: You try to see if there's anything interesting around here.
B: You sneak away.

A: Choose 1 Assassin who will climb to the top of a pillar to get an overview. This Assassin makes a Detection Test with 1 [eye] die. [Pause] lf they become exposed, they flee by improvising a diversion, read 1. If they remain incognito, read 2.
B: After a few minutes' walk, you spot an enemy patrol advancing in your direction. You decide to turn back and hide in the temple. Once inside, your curiosity leads you to investigate... Read A.

1: The exposed Assassin is attacked with 2[star] dice. [Pause] The rest of the group takes advantage of the diversion to hastily search the temple. You discover information about the surrounding area. Take small card A#13.

2: At the top of the pillar, the Assassin discovers a weapon with a curved blade in a richly crafted sheath. They take it discreetly. Take small card A#15.

In the distance, you can see the top of a temple hidden in the thick vegetation. As you approach it, you see a group of about ten enemies busy setting up their camp. Nearby, a woman is tied to a tree. She is completely still and probably asleep. You wonder if she's still alive...

A group of Stalkers walks away to gather some wood. If you want to act, now is the time!

Choose an option:
A: You move discreetly towards the prisoner to free her.
B: You ignore her and you try to bypass the camp.

A: You reach the prisoner. She wants to know who you are. Choose an option: You answer and initiate a conversation (1) or you release her without trying to find out more and you go take cover (2).
B: An ambush! Take a total of 5 [star] dice. Before rolling them, Assassins can use 1+ Venom Equipment cards to add as many [venom] dice. If you roll 4+ [Assassin symbol]/[star]/[venom], you win the fight easily. [Pause] Read 3. Otherwise, you are victorious, but you spend time tending to your wounds. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge [Pause] Read 3.

1: The prisoner asks one question after another. You answer all of them, well aware that every minute you spend talking increases the risk of being caught out. And suddenly... Read B.
2: She thanks you for freeing her. You follow her and she shows you a satchel hidden behind some bamboo before disappearing into the jungle. Take small card A#16.

3: You free the prisoner. Read 2.

You are progressing on a path that is increasingly difficult to follow. One of you climbs a palm tree to locate your destination. You can see the top of a temple about a mile away, you decide to approach it.

You now see an entrance hidden behind a thick curtain of creepers. An intense buzzing noise attracts your attention. You see a nest of giant hornets. Just below is the corpse of a man who seems to have risked his life to enter...

Choose an option:
A: Choose 1 Assassin who will try to cautiously reach the entrance of the temple.
B: You decide to light a fire under the nest in hopes of keeping the hornets away.

A: As you are only a few feet from the entrance, the buzzing becomes more intense, the hornets seem more and more excited! Choose an option: You rush towards the entrance (1) or you lie motionless on the floor for as long as necessary (2).
B: You go back and forth through the jungle to collect wood, paying attention to your every move. The fire you lit finally releases a thick white smoke around the nest. Read 2.

1: You manage to enter despite the hornet stings. You lose 2 [health].[Pause] Read 3.
2: It took a long time, but it was worth it... The hornets finally fly away. Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge.[II] Read 3.

3: Finally safe in the temple behind the curtain of creepers, you can breathe. There's equipment here. Take up to 3 Equipment cards of your choice. You exit through a hidden opening.

On your right, a small path dotted with seemingly recent footprints leads towards an isolated building. You follow them in the hope of finding something to satisfy your hunger and thirst. After a good half hour of walking, you hear the sound of a waterfall Water, at last!

You approach cautiously, but you are not the first ones at that spot: About ten Vipers are preparing their supper...

Choose an option:
A: You attack them by surprise.
B: You approach discreetly to try to capture some of them, hoping that the others will surrender.
C: You gain height to develop a plan and act under cover of night.

A: A complete surprise! The Vipers easily surrender... Read 1.
B: Depending on their audacity, each Assassin chooses to roll between 1 and 3 [eye] dice. Each Assassin still incognito captures as many Enemies as [eye] dice they rolled. [Pause] If you capture more Enemies than Assassins in play (including Shao Jun), read 1. Otherwise, read 2.
C: You look around from the top of a building to plan your entrance in the camp. The sun is still high. You can stay here until nightfall (3) or leave on an empty stomach (4).

1: You take their rations. Each Assassin recovers 2 [health] and draws 1 Equipment card.
2: You must flee. Use [give white card] 1 of your smoke bombs, otherwise each Assassin suffers 1 attack with 2 [star] dice.
3: Tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge.[Pause] Night has fallen and the sentry has dozed off. You take the opportunity to steal some food. Each Assassin recovers 2 [health].

4: Each Assassin loses 1 [health].

The dense rain that has been falling since this morning blurs your vision and seems to absorb all surrounding sounds. So that's it: The famous monsoon you were told about when you arrived.

At the bend of a half-collapsed wall, you come face to face with two Stalkers who are patrolling. They immediately flee! As they run, something falls out of their bag...

Choose an option:
A: You go after them!
B: You just pick up what they dropped.

A: Despite the soggy terrain, you're gaining ground. You suddenly realize that the Stalkers are trying to join a large group of female warriors! Thanks to the rain, It's very likely that they haven't seen you yet... You can stop dead in your tracks and turn back (2) or make a last-ditch effort to intercept the two Stalkers and prevent them from raising the alarm (1).
B: It's a map! On the other hand, it's completely soaked and unusable... But there's something even more serious: You've let the two Stalkers get away! They've Joined a large group of warriors. Read 2.

1: You barely intercept the Stalkers! You think you're now safe, but a few seconds later, the alarm sounds! Read 2.

2: The group of warriors is now heading your way! You set off at full speed to try and escape. You're no longer safe here... [slashed eye] Add large card A#59 to the [Ruins] deck and shuffle it.

The group of warriors who recently started chasing you continues to stalk you through the jungle. You've managed to keep them at bay so far...but for how long?

You still trudge forward, carving your way, foot by foot, through the dense vegetation. But, in doing so, you also leave a trail for your pursuers...

You suddenly find yourself blocked by a steep thirty-foot cliff. The never ending rain made the wall very slippery.

Choose an option:
A: You try to climb without delay in the hope of losing your pursuers.
B: You are trying to go around the cliff, at the risk of being caught...

A: Before you climb, decide if you want to get rid of any of your equipment to reduce the risk of falling. Each Assassin can discard as many [black] cards as they wish. [Pause] Read 1.
B: You walk along the cliff to avoid leaving more traces. Moving without trimming vegetation takes a lot of time... You could speed up, but are you willing to take the risk of getting hurt? Read 2.

1: Each Assassin rolls as many [star] dice as [black] cards still in their possession. [Pause] If they roll 0 [star] or less [star~] than [shield], all goes well. If not, they fall and lose as many [health] as [star] rolled. You manage to get over the cliff and escape your pursuers.

2: You must decide: Each Assassin rolls 1 [star] die or tick 1 box on the Threat Gauge. [Pause] You manage to get far away, enough to feel safe.