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

[showsnopiety]

[Who needs glory or praise? Victory in itself is its own reward. Caren herself is not some sort of beserker. And she's interested in his abilities in war.]

I have some, but not all of them are suitable for mobile combat.

[She leans in against him, wrapping her arms around his torso for more contact. Taking in as much mana as possible in this position, until the last moment. She's going to need it for what's to come. If she was another person, she would have smiled, aware that what's to come will be most enjoyable.

When they're in range, her hand flings out. Not at the enemy, but at the lava crack to the right, far enough away that it won't do any damage to them.]

Adspargo!

[Lava is flung, and they're rewarded with the screams of mounts and soilders alike, before her other hand flings out. Wires stream out from her left hands fingers this time, which she jerks around, like a flail or a whip.]

[verisimilitudes]

[Focused on navigating the ever changing and perilous landscape, Laurent can be only peripherally aware of what she's doing. He hears her call, feels the moment that she releases her hold on him, and feels the shifting of her weight at his back. As a cautionary measure he tucks his knees inward in order to lock his calves around her own- keeping her anchored should her balance become threatened.

He does not have to concern himself with conserving the boar's energy. This will not be a lengthy ride or a test of endurance, they will not be out here for hours because they do not have hours. He leans forward, reducing resistance as he spurs the creature onward and outward, racing through the cluster of soldiers only to double back, flanking those that try to scatter in order to allow the woman behind him to cast again, to catch them up in her spells. As the men falter the boar speeds over trembling earth, bringing its riders within range of a group of mages that appear to have spotted them. He will have his work cut out for him trying to outmaneuver against their spellwork.]

Oh look, we've found more.

[showsnopiety]

Oh, how nice. Looks like they've been slaking.

[She doesn't smile. She's never been big for smiling in the first place. But he might feel a certain tension rise in her body, not just from balancing herself on the boar.

She likes this. There's a kind of hyper awareness, a challenge, even as she knows this will be brief. There's only so much time before the walls close. Getting there at the last moment though-

That might give her a thrill she hasn't felt since her last fight. Spells are uttered, meant to confuse, case pain and if they're too close, they get a lazy flick with her shawl, much like another would use a leather sap.

Mages though-they're something else. She doesn't have much time to make her choices; she decides quickly then, and touches his shoulder in warning.]

Close your eyes in five seconds.

[She lets him make the mental count to prepare himself, and she makes the motion with her fingers. This spell is different from the one before. That was affecting their surroundings. And this...]

LUX!

[Is a summoning of light. Light, thrown at the enemies eyes, at their mounts, like flash bangs at close range. She's always been good at light summoning, particularly that of the holy element. Even if there were those who would raise their eyebrows at that.]

It's done.

[verisimilitudes]

[The way she reaches for him, the touch on his shoulder and the absence of his reaction would convince anyone that did not know him that nothing about this exchange was unusual. The reality of course is that Laurent is not a thrill-seeker and he does not place himself in precarious situations simple for the danger in it- nor is he touched by others, let alone so casually. But combat is what it is and there is no time for observing personal preferences while skirting between life and death.

She tells him to close his eyes in five seconds and Laurent has the span of an inhale to be sure that doing so won't have them careening into disaster- and then he does. There isn't time to do anything but trust her, really. He hears shouts of alarm and cries as they reach them from a distance. When his eyes open at her encouragement and the boar leaps over a crevasse in the earth, he can't afford to look back, but his curiosity is piqued enough to question.]

A spell? Or your weapon?

[showsnopiety]

[Caren has always been casual at breeching personal bubbles, while reacting badly to those who would do the same. Then again, it is something she does to gain control: by making the other uncomfortable. But this is more of a practicality, and so long as he doesn't go blind, that's the main concern.

After all, he's the one in control of the boar, not her. It'd be difficult to grab the reins around him.]

A spell, directed not at them but at the air around them. A light summoning.

[It's no secret, she thinks, and she has been assisting in training of heroes for awhile now. He might learn how she recites them sooner rather then later.]

My weapons-you might see that sooner than later. But the opportunity is missed, I would be glad to spar or display them at a later time.

[Not without a price, but that's a given.]

[verisimilitudes]

That's quite the offer. I'll consider it carefully.

[There is something refreshing for Laurent in finding himself of a kind with another. This isn't to say that he was starved of the subtleties and plays for power or control in Vere, but rather that those plays were, after all, the sum of what he knew. While life in Enprise markets itself as (for lack of a better phrase) black or white, he refuses to believe that any land in any world could ever be just that. He has had too many lessons to the contrary. Human nature will be what it is regardless of setting.

It is for this reason that he does not call her offer generous- because it isn't, though he doesn't yet know the cost. Something to consider at a later date. Greater still is her use of magic and that is an opportunity he cannot afford to pass up.

The ground has destabilized enough to force their hand- it's well enough, Laurent can see no other stragglers that they might knock off on the way back in.]

What is your willingness on the subject of tutoring spellcraft?

[showsnopiety]

Please do.

[After all, once he sees he may think of weak points. Not a good thing in their line of work, even if by design they're supposed to be on the same side. But no information or alliance seeking is without risk. It is refreshing, she finds, to deal with this man; here is someone she can deal with. Someone who doesn't seem to expect her to be good to point out she did do some good things. A lot of people could. It was motivation that could be suspect.

Just like generosity could take advantage of a person, far too easily. She's getting her hooks into heroes, little by little, with small favors becoming bigger over time. It's a gradual process.]

I'm willing. I can show you the basics, the things you need to know-even help you certain spells, if you have a certain one in mind.

And if you find me unsuitable, I can assist with finding someone who is.

[verisimilitudes]

[Her language is one he understands. Veretian court is nothing but favors and secrets- a matter of leverage and fondness and obligation and desire all in fluctuating measures and at varying intervals. If they are to make an arrangement then he intends to be perfectly clear about what he wishes to gain, he has no interest in feigning platitudes or disguising his short-comings; they will be clear enough on the field of battle and while he can survive wounded pride he doubts he will survive long in these circumstances without improving himself. Laurent has a ready mind, one eager to set itself to patterns, plans, and designs. He isn't seeking her out to play to either of their senses of vanity. She is skilled, he stands to gain- the line is clear.

Less clear is what he has to offer in return. It would not be the first time Laurent had incurred a debt he was not immediately able to repay, and he is not eager to enter into such an arrangement when he cannot identify that which makes him desirable to her. But he isn't naive enough to believe he has a wealth of options. Even if he were to find another instructor, he suspects they would not share this- preference for pragmatism. Laurent is no stranger to accusations of ruthlessness or frigidity. He simply doesn't care about them so long as the work is done.]

And what might I offer you in turn?

[showsnopiety]

[It was the language of politics, of a more pragmatic bent. Pleasing arrangements, and compromise. Too often, people here are ruled by emotional bonds and desires, for friendship and the like. It doesn't suit Caren. It's not survival.

A trading of skills suits her. But what she stands to gain from having Laurent, a pawn that could disappear at any time to back home? What could he possibly offer her? That is a question, and not one he may be able to answer.

As she makes herself comfortable on the boar's back, she offers him an answer.]

A favour, which can be called on at any time. Something that is within your power to do. One favor for each lesson.

I think that's more than fair.

[Though it is a deadly thing to offer. Caren is not predictable to most people, and she likes it that way.]

[verisimilitudes]

Trading the known for the unknown?

[She must be aware, as she says it, that the terms of negotiation are far from fair, because nothing about their interaction thus far has lead to the impression that she is naive or particularly optimistic. Laurent expects that any favor she requests is just as likely to be mundane and pleasure-seeking as it is to be a true challenge to his health or comfort.

And yet the risk stands for her as well: to give something for nothing. That would simply be poor bartering.

The race for shelter begins. Ahead of them the wall has begun to close; Laurent digs heels in and the boar launches into a feverish sprint- racing towards safety.]

Then it would be in my best interest to be a fast learner.

[showsnopiety]

[It's a race to the wall now; she can feel herself baring her teeth at the risk. They might be locked out of the wall, and die.

There is a thrill to it, and that, along of the comment, makes her chuckle. He doesn't want to be in her debt, it's true. She is not gentle with those who are in it. But then, she isn't gentle with herself either.]

We will see. There are many applications, and it may take some clarification.

And my time is a precious thing.

[verisimilitudes]

I'll do my best to remember it.

[There's hardly time to discuss it further, even to trade a few more pointed remarks into one another. His attention remains on the steadily narrowing gap ahead of them- the meters closing between them and then, so quick and in slow motion all at once, they slip through to the other side. The wall thudding and sealing at their backs.]

[showsnopiety]

[There's almost no time to discuss it at all. It's all she can do to hold on, and ensure that he doesn't lose his concentration to ride the boar to swiftness, and ensure they aren't crushed to death.

And feeling the breath of air against her back, Caren laughs softly. There was little that matched the thrill of a close call.

She'll part from his company soon enough, and leave him to consider and mull over what they had discussed. But she's certain she'll have use for him, sooner rather than later.]