WAR ♞ MARCH ON CENTRAL WEST PLATEAU

[boardmaster]

MARCH ON CENTRAL WEST PLATEAU
20 AUGUST (GLADIA) 2016

The quiet, seemingly unremarkable town of Friedgood doesn't seem like a prime target for a Noir attack. Ask any outsider what a Friedgood local's favorite activity might be, and they’ll likely respond "I don't know, digging?" They're not wrong: Friedgood's primary industry comes from the excavation of precious stones and minerals in the nearby mountain ranges and volcanoes. Those who don't make their living from mining most likely still enjoy digging, as the town is a hot destination for archeologists from the school of Pigeonsblood looking to uncover the ancient secrets of Gammon.

More important than shiny rocks, however, is Friedgood's strategic location within the country, specifically the checkpoint known as Platform 42 and 5/8ths. It forms a stark contrast to the sleepy town it resides in. This bustling travel hub is known as the "Gateway to Gammon", and boasts fast transport to almost anywhere in the kingdom. Security is tight here, with grim-faced Gammon soldiers working around the clock to ensure that criminal activity doesn't stand a chance. Keep your contraband at home — an infraction will cost you heavy jail time. Friedgood is also the only town with a road providing access to Grantebrycge, Gammon's illustrious University town.

By conquering Friedgood, Noir hopes for universal access to all of Gammon.

On the 20th of Gladia, amidst strong winds and persistent thunderstorms, Heroes will arrive to the Central West Plateau. Even surrounded by tall mountain ranges and ominous volcanoes, its ancient wall is truly a daunting sight. A marvel even by modern construction standards, it was built over 300 years ago to defend against hostile nomadic tribes, and remains as strong and sturdy as the day it was built. It also provides an important environmental buffer to the people of Friedgood — the wall is resistant to lava.

Basic info on the war can be found here. All OOC questions about the event may be directed to the thread below.

ONE ♙ The War of Three Armies
It’s time to head to the battle, Hero. You may be walking, riding a mount - your own, or a borrowed spider or boar - or hitching a ride from someone else. It’s a miserable trek to the plateau, but at least you’re not alone. Once you arrive, Verdoni is there to greet you, accompanied by another Gammonian, the commander of this battle.

Pinta [ so god damned salty about not being a naval tactician and assigned to ships ] Ah, yes, the vaunted Heroes I’ve heard so much about. The name is Pinta, ah... naval tactician to Gammon’s armed forces. Ask why and I’ll show you a bloody hell. Anyway, welcome to the Central West Plateau! During ancient times, the volcanoes were said to be a wall of flame that protected Gammon. But if that stopped the Othellians, I suppose I wouldn’t be here, ahaha! Now, with them dormant, we must instead rely upon our steel and our wall. It’s strong enough to protect Gammon even if every volcano in the area were to erupt all at once! At least that’s what the locals say. They didn’t sound too dodgy, but... moving on! If you have any questions, our men will be glad to explain; show you how the cannons work, where the traps are and whatnot. Again, this really isn’t my expertise—oh! Our wizards have been creative as of late. We’ve these wind platforms that will fling those Noirs up, up, up! Into the air! Try not to get caught in them, yeah? Our navy will take care of our seas. They’re an outstanding lot, they are. All we need to do is focus! Gammon shall not sink here!

You’ll then be handed a magical bracelet. The miners use it protect them from toxic air, so this is a precaution; should you need it, it should last for the duration of the battle. Now all you have to do is wait and prepare for the battle. Acquaint yourself with the battleground: explore the Defense Wall and see what traps there are. It may give you some ideas of your own. There are also war cannons aligned on the top wall and within its interior. Otherwise, check your supplies or rest and collect yourself for what will come. Your mount may also want attention.


TWO ♙ Fellowship of the Bling
Initially cloaked by thick fumes of sulfur, ozone and the dreary overcast of the storm, the Noir battalion finally arrives. Their general, Spicy Spice, steps, nay, struts forward.

	Why is it that every time I come around, that Cochrane Bridge wants to go down? [ ADJUSTS HER WORLD CUP BRA ] They can’t keep that wall up forever.
Let’s make this a quick one, so we can get out of this smelly rain! [ gets ready to fire her gun in the air when she remembers something ] And don’t forget, target their puny pathetic healers, first. [ raises gun high above her head, signaling for the attack with a BANG! ]

On her cue, the Noir Vanguard rushes forward with a fearsome war cry, followed soon after by the Rearguard.

ENEMY ♟ Mounted Noir Soldier
Weak against None	Strong against Fire	Immune to None
These soldiers gallop onto the battlefield with their imposing GOLDHORN GOAT mounts. These are bigger and stronger than the average goat, and their golden horns tend to ABSORB SPELLS directed at their riders. Some spells in a soldier’s arsenal: GRISTRELKI sets fire to the rain — literally. It converts the rain in the sky into a barrage of fireballs. Pray your umbrella’s fireproof! With the PLAMEVODA spell, they can turn hot water (i.e. those from geysers) into bubbling hot lava. When combined with a strong cooling spell, the spell can trap you in rock… That is, if the lava doesn’t kill you first! DVIZHE SMERTI is a dangerous spell that paralyzes its target, rendering them unable to even speak or blink. This can be cured with mana exchange. Hurry before Noir strikes with a rain of fire!Of course, the soldiers are capable of HEALING SPELLS to assist their injured allies and mounts. The VANGUARD is lead by an impressive wall of massive shield units, armed with various melee weapons: swords, maces, and daunting battle axes. Herd them into the traps around the battlefield to render them immobile! The REARGUARD, armed with bows and arrows, will try to overwhelm the HEROIC VANGUARD. HEROIC DEFENSE back them up with long-ranged attacks and the cannons! If they get close enough to the wall, the Rearguard will relentlessly attack the Defense! Both units are under strict orders to prioritize an attack on the HEROIC SUPPORT. If they see any Hero or Gammonian soldiers helping each other or performing rescues on the battlefield, they will give chase IMMEDIATELY. DROPS: Shield with Noir Emblem, Flame Staff, Assorted Non-Magical Weapons, Golden Goat Horns, Lava Lamp

In the heat of battle, you will feel the ground beneath you shake and tremble. In a turn of events neither side could have predicted, a dormant volcano in the distance erupts, raining down fire and scorched earth on the area. More alarming, however, is how the resulting earthquake sets off powerful, white-hot geysers on the battlefield. Stay alert! To make matters worse, the approaching lava makes Noir’s fire spells even more deadly, and Noir shows no signs of letting up on their assault.

Spicy Spice You think a little bad weather is going to stop us? Don't make me laugh. [ laughs anyway, then falls into a coughing fit ] Urghh, damn these fumes — Oh whatever, Send in the riders!

THREE ♙ The Desolation of Noir
Undeterred by the eruptions, the geysers, or the bad weather, they’ve called in their aerial units, fierce griffon riders who’re trying to fly over the wall and into Friedgood. Don’t let them pass! Make use of your resources and shoot them down: Heroes with long ranged weapons or magic will find their skills useful here. Learned how to fire a cannon? Now’s your chance! If not, protect your allies, Hero and Gammonian, as they line up their shots.

ENEMY ♟ Noir Griffon Rider
Weak against None	Strong against Fire, Lightning	Immune to Wind
For the first time, Heroes will witness firsthand how Noir’s legendary griffon riders—often called masters of the skies—live up to their name. A griffon’s powerful wings not only lets them soar at great heights; they can whip up terrifying BEAMS OF LIGHTNING. Griffon riders are armed with JAVELINS which they can also throw and cast the same spells as their counterparts on land. However, they share a closer bond with their griffon mounts. Upon losing their master, the griffons will go BERSERK and proceed to kill everything in sight. If a Hero gets caught in a griffon’s talons, the creature will drop them into their boiling demise at either a GEYSER or VOLCANO. DROPS: Mount Treats, Riding Gloves, Noir Lance, Harness, Griffon Feathers, Griffon Talon

The lava is fast approaching and Noir can no longer take the heat. The griffon riders are maintaining their assault, but the rest of their army is falling back to escape. Time for you to retreat too before Gammonian soldiers seal the wall and you’re trapped on the plateau side. Fried Heroes ain’t Fried Good.

• Defense, continue shooting at any enemy target in range! Be attentive and aid your allies as they retreat back to the wall. Do not fear, you have the advantage.
• Vanguard, fall back! Watch the skies for any griffon riders on the way to the wall. Once you arrive, take down enemies who try to breach. Letting even one enemy pass could spell disaster.
• Support, grab the wounded and check the wall’s condition! Any damages should be repaired immediately to prevent the lava from entering Friedgood.

FOUR ♙ There and Back Again
The wall closes, sealing the lava and ending the battle. Hopefully no one got left behind.

Spicy Spice Now I'm wishing that I didn't wear these shoes (I hate heels). Better get up out my face! [ trips on her way out ] Oh shit!

Catch your breath, Hero. You won. First, check up on everyone and heal your wounds. If you borrowed a mount you might want to take the time to say farewell, since the trip back to Friedgood means you’ll be parting soon.

The people of Friedgood are grateful. They know what would have happened if you lost. There’s no time for fancy parties. They’re pulling out whatever they can find for a makeshift street party right then and there.

You can find bowls of Splotched Richard - a dessert pudding - and Bangers and Mash. If you’re in the mood for something strong you can get pints of Guileless or Pale Noir, maybe a Lasker Train Bomb if you can find someone who’s willing to mix it. Or perhaps you fancy a CreamAle, the favored drink of Grantebrycge.

You’re welcome to stay out and party as long as you like - the party is for you, after all! In fact, the people will respect you more if you get drunk and pass out on the side of the street. But for Heroes who’re tired from the war, you’re always welcome to stagger into the Bollox Inn for a room, free of charge.

Comments

[babbylon]

[Gods, they are going to have one very, very long night at the inn after this. She's a beast of the savanna in her own right, swift on her feet and all the more so in destroying her enemies. She's so beautiful, so mesmerizing, he doesn't even think to complain when she jumps onto his mount and stabilizes herself on his shoulders. What had been a competition in earnest turns into a joint effort, as he purposely guides Taka in such a manner that Vietnam can line up the cleanest shots.

He wouldn't claim he was helping her, though. Only that they were helping each other. Holy magic continues to devastate the enemy lines, but now Gilgamesh isolates a few of the tougher individuals that won't fall to the swords alone, forcing them into corners and leaving them defenseless. Only a gifted sniper can bring them down. A gifted sniper like the leader of a proud nation that refuses to fall behind the rest of the world. Shy, yet strong, and stubborn as a superpower.

He loves her, really and truly. Everyday he'll drown her in the King's affection, passionate and unrelenting, to make her understand.]

Griffons incoming! Clear them out, Sen!

[Gilgamesh pulls a few riders down with his magical chains. Easy prey for his waiting woman.]

[hoasen]

[After a long battle, and a small party of good food and drink? You bet. After all the image of his heroic figure cutting through the battlefield will still be fresh in her mind, and the way he just guides Taka as they race across the space to vanquish their enemies. All of it. She knows he's no quite challenging her right now. This here is how those who understand each other wage war. She probably wouldn't even count anymore, with how they're working together.

Having understood his tactics, she waits until each rain of sword takes their target, before sniping out whoever is left. Would they think they were impaled by a holy blade with how quickly she follows? Who would even know. But here is Gilgamesh, bringing out spell after spell, impressive and destructive. And a constant reminder of his power in this world. Chains to bind them. But she knows it's not the spell, but rather, how one could wield it to awaken fear in all his enemies. He's radiant, Gilgamesh really is a magnificent King of Heroes.

And to ensure that he can keep doing so with his limited mana, she wraps her arm more firmly around his shoulders, pressing against him so that he can have a constant stream. He will never find himself without, if his wife had anything to do with it.]

Roger.

[But even with that moment, her voice is firm and as soon as there is a clear opening once Gilgamesh flings off the riders, Vietnam lines her aim to take the griffons out cleanly. The creatures will not suffer, as their lifeless bodies plummet into the depths below. The riders, now in the hands of her husband? They will.]

[babbylon]

[In the midst of all this fury, Gilgamesh recalls a quieter conversation.

"You were the reality I always desired."

Earnest words shared with a former Master, yet they seem to apply just as much here, in this moment. Here, in this moment, where he felt like a true Hero—with someone who loved him just as much as in return, and would give everything they had to ensure his success. He feels not only like a true Hero, but like a proper King, guiding his vassals to battle. His heart swells with pride in his chest. And it may be here, in this moment, that Gilgamesh finally lets go of the world left behind and admits to himself:

I wish to stay with them.

I wish to stay with the people that love and protect me.

Have I become selfish?

No, I have always been selfish.

Therefore, this is the only path left to me.

The path I choose...

...is one of personal happiness, at long last.

The griffons plummet to their doom and the riders are stabbed and pierced one by one by the tip of Gilgamesh's blade. Whenever more of them appear, more of them fall, to the deadly teamwork of a country and a King. Before long, they have opened the way for the rest of the Blanc army behind them, which gladly takes advantage and cheers them as they pass. Inspired and invigorated but knowing they should take time to rest, Gilgamesh pulls Taka aside and finds a safe hollow for them to recover.

Gilgamesh turns to press a soft kiss to Vietnam's cheek, nudging at her.]

Well done. You please me with your relentlessness, wife. Your near peerless ferocity.

[He has blood on him, but he doesn't mind. Perhaps it even adds to the charm.]

[hoasen]

[She didn't realise Gilgamesh had this kind of thought, though it probably isn't too difficult for him when he rains his damage with his ranged attacks, encompassing whole areas. Truly an "Archer" as she was once told. And when she took a quick glance at him, she noticed his expression, even in the heat of battle, looked serene. And so she wonders, what was he thinking? Did he come to another conclusion? He grows each day, stronger in body and spirit.

And since when did Vietnam feel that the heat of battle didn't practically destroy her mood? Even if she accepted it? Gilgamesh's presence inspires her, and her love for him is empowering. She feels strong, and she knows they are strong, as one could see when the army moves forward to take down the enemy marching towards them.

She only relaxes, softens a little, after he rides Taka aside, and Vinh, having caught sight of them, follows after. Vietnam settles down much more carefully now, weapons put away, nudging back at Gilgamesh after he kisses her. And just like that, she tries to smear away the dirt on his face, straighten his hair, even though Gilgamesh as a warrior king looks as handsome as ever. But she knows how vain he is.]

Only because you made it easier, husband. You really are a King of Heroes, no?

[She's not against telling him this, as in battle they are meant to be a team. And to reward him, no matter the count, she moves in kiss his cheek--

Until Vinh practically shoves the spider ride because she wants to congratulate Taka.]

[babbylon]

[Gilgamesh laughs and smiles through her affectionate attentiveness. It's true, he looks more than a little messy right now, but he'd argue it only adds to his charm. As it does for her. He reaches to swipe some blood off her face with the pad of his thumb, though in the end it only winds up smeared further across her skin. Like a warrior wearing battle paint.]

And what does that make you, hm? Neither King nor Queen, but the brave Rook at my side.

[His Vietnam, shy yet bold, who would do anything and everything for the sake of her countrymen. Vaguely he wonders if she's been introduced to Saber; he thinks they might get along well, with similarly stoic personalities. Both beautiful women in his life, both worthy leaders of their respective nations.

Gilgamesh just lets the two spiders have their moment, as they have theirs.]

Countries must be like Servants, in that regard. And especially in your case, fighting is instinctual.

[Vietnam did not spring from nothingness, after all. It sprung from a war for independence.]

[hoasen]

[She definitely finds him charming. After all, she finds perfection in his imperfections, especially when he looks like this. He's so clean, well groomed, but when it matters, he really can embrace the messiness of life. In a way, he already is. He's a catastrophe on two legs. She only laughs when she feels the blood smear across her face. They'll have time to clean themselves up properly later. Be able to finally relax.]

I am no King nor Queen. A Rook is what they say I am here, so I will be your rook. [But really, she is a country. And it is nothing different to what she has done. Would that be the same for him? To rally those around him to battle? When he's not being insufferable, Gilgamesh is able to inspire everyone around him. The army was certainly taken by him. Also, you bet she has met Saber. Guess who feeds her. Yeah that's right.

The spiders are clearly happy to have their moment, and Vietnam knows of the essence of time, that even while they rest here, who knows when they get called out again, so she loses no effort in wrapping her arms around his waist, pressing her head to his shoulder. Who cares if their uniforms are an utter mess.]

Now I have been told more about Servants, I believe so. [They were born for a reason, and that is to be linked to a land.] I don't want to let you take credit for that, but I'll let you have a little bit. With how Sumeria lead to that happening. But yes, you know how history was in the beginning. One must be prepared to fight. [And she sure gave them one hell of a fght.

But she knows that as a country, as a vassal, she still has more freedom than he. She can make her own decisions, she does not get punished by her leaders for disobeying. She can go wherever she likes.] I believe Kojirou said I would be most similar to...what was it...a Lancer.