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

never...!

[retains]

[Well, this is only slightly a disaster on his part; he really hadn't intended to upset her even a little bit, let alone enough to make her voice rasp with the kind of feelings she seemed to be grappling with.

He offers her a smile that's much more put together. It's comforting, and maybe a little self-depreciating.]

Well, y'know, the thing about getting lost is, you can always find your way again, yeah? S'not too late.

[He shrugs, not really sure if he should be doling out this kind of advice when he can't say he's great about listening to any type of reason himself, but he can't just walk away, either.] Nobody's askin' you to make your mind up about what you believe in right away, so why don't you take all the time you need?

and sorry to keep you waiting!

[rememberher]

[ This wasn't the first time that she had this suspicion. This world that was so different from her own, the way that it forced her to see more than what was clearly in front of her, to exist beyond the safety of her ivory towers... it was a bit terrifying, in a way, and so easy to get lost in.

And Lavi, he was only trying to help, asking a simple question that somehow set her off. Lux wasn't quite sure what happened, really. Yet there they were, as she did her best to maintain some sense of decorum, to keep it in. This wasn't like her at all...

Her shoulders shrugging gently upward, she tried to salvage this failed conversation with a somewhat lackluster smile. Please, don't worry about her, she'll be fine. Her job was to be strong for others, not seek out strength herself. It was fine. This would be fine. ]

I'm sorry, I didn't mean—

[ And as he began to speak, she stopped, quieting herself and listening. Take all the time she needed? Her eyes lowering, the younger blond shook her head simply. ]

I can't do something like that. They look to me to guide them. If I show even a bit of weakness or uncertainty, then...

[ This wasn't her "fair" Demacia, and her fellow heroes were different. Still, the burden of that responsibility remained, no matter how she tried to assuage it. If not them, then the people of Blanc. She had to be strong, she had to be sure; there was no room for doubt or uncertainty. ]

Please just... forget what I said.

[retains]

[This is far more than one day or one conversation can handle, but they're here now. He's not even a little bit fooled by her attempt at a smile; he's been around enough people that try to plaster on the exact same sort of look to cover up what they're really feeling that he just takes it as a matter of course.]

Hmmm, nope. [Which is... not entirely helpful or supportive, probably. He holds up his fingers as he talks, emphasizing his points.]

First, I don't forget things, ever, so that part's not gonna happen. Second, you don't gotta apologize for nothing. Third, do you really think anybody's as infallible as you're tryin' to be?

Look, I know you're givin' it your all, but it's not as easy as deciding something and then it is that way, yeah? People're still gonna look up to you, even if you think you're not perfect. All you're gonna do is drive yourself crazy trying to live up to your own expectations.

[rememberher]

[ His steadfast refusal caught her by surprise, and looking up at the older man, clearly taken aback. No?

Her posture slumping gently, her gaze lowered again, a sort of piteous smile crossing her lips. No, Lavi, that wasn't it. She wasn't stupid, she knew that other people were capable of having and showing flaws. But for her...

For her, such a luxury didn't exist.

The smile still painted on her lips, Lux shook her head gently, eyes averted downward. For being such a confident woman normally, she couldn't bring herself to meet his gaze. ]

They look for me for hope and guidance. The people where I'm from. To be a Crownguard is to be strong, infallible. Any sign of weakness is unacceptable. Such behavior would bring dishonor to my house, to my prince, and that... that is inexcusable.

[retains]

[Those are completely valid feelings, Lux. Wanting to be a paragon of excellence and strength for your people is totally understandable, as is not wanting to let them down by faltering.

And yet--]

Hmmm. [He isn't going to 'nope' her out loud, but he's certaintly thinking it.] Nope. Last time I checked, none of us are actually home, and I'm just sayin', I think it's the people here that are looking to you for hope and guidance right now.

[He rubs at the back of his head, wanting to get his point across.]

You're doin' fine, Lux. [More than fine, really. Nobody that didn't have resolve and strength down to their bones would be worrying about seeming weak.] Seems like the only one that can't see that is you.

I'm so glad I mentioned this...

[rememberher]

[ The first "nope" surprised her, startling her more than anything. But a second time? Her smile quickly melting away, she looked up indignantly. Are you trying to make light of how she feels, Lavi?! ]

I know that!

[ There was a bit of fire there where there hadn't been before, and biting it back, Lux looked away with a sigh. ]

I know that, but—and don't you dare "nope" me... Even if this isn't my world, and even if these people aren't my people...

It doesn't matter. This is my life, this is what I was born to do. "Doing fine," it isn't good enough. The people of Demacia may never know of what I've done here, of the battles we've fought, and the people we've lost. ...But I will. A soldier like me carries her mistakes with her, whether or not anyone can see them. It's my duty to remember, to push myself beyond what I am capable of in order to protect the lives of the innocent.

[ Clenching a fist at her side, it shook. But out of passion, frustration or fear, it was hard to say. ]

It's my duty.

fite me

[retains]

[He wasn't going to nope her, not this time. He does let her go on, tilting his head slightly and squinting at her, though there's nothing wrong with his vision. Even when she finishes, he only has a considering look on his face, though it's tinged with something close to irritation.]

Huh. So, you think you're the only one with a duty to somethin' back home? That you're the only person around here walking around with things on your shoulders nobody else can see? S'a pretty big head you got there, then.

[He's only raising his voice a little bit.] Come off it, Lux, you're not the only person that wants things to be different.

cracks. knuckles. [1/2]

[rememberher]

I know that!

[ If he didn't raise his voice, then she would for him, looking up suddenly, tears of frustration in her eyes. ]

nope. not gonna do it. [2/2] (unfortunately I don't have a good icon for this one...)

[rememberher]

[ Then all at once, the realization sank in, and her eyes widened in horror, a hand covering her mouth.

Oh gods, she didn't mean... That wasn't what she intended for at all, and as his words began to wash over her like a rushing tide, her hand shook.

Was that really how she felt? That her own duty was the only thing that mattered, that somehow, what drove her fellow heroes was somehow unimportant? ]

I... Lavi, I didn't mean...

[ Not only did she cross a line, she stormed past it with a complete disregard for him or anyone else fighting there. Anyone else who shouldered that heavy burden of duty and obligation. ]

That's not...

[ ...But it was, wasn't it? ]

I'm sorry...

[retains]

[Even without the tears in her eyes, the fact that he startled her enough to apologize is a sign he's overstepped some boundaries himself.

He shrugs one shoulder, shaking his head slightly. He's still frustrated, and he'd meant what he said, but taking it out on her isn't going to anyone any good.]

Look-- we're all under a lot of stress, yeah? S'important not to forget that, and it's not surprising that anybody'd be caught up in their own troubles. We all gotta deal as best we can.

[rememberher]

[ As they say, it takes two to tango.

She knew he did, that he meant every word of it, and while that wasn't the jarring part, the fact that it took someone nearly yelling down at her to realize how wrong she had been... It was uncomfortable, and made her skin crawl. Had it always been this way?

Probably.

Stress might excuse her sudden outburst, but it hardly justified that that was the way she truly felt. It was ugly, that feeling. Nevertheless, she nodded slowly, once again unable to meet his gaze. ]

Yeah.

[ What should one say at a time like this? Apologizing again felt inadequate and quite honestly nearly patronizing at this point, so instead, forcing a smile on her face once again, she looked up. ]

Be careful out there, all right Lavi?