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

[fuhrinkaed]

I have no idea! [Great. That's good ol' reliable Edward Jay Finklestein at his finest.]

[While she's covering for him he shuts his eyes and feels. He can sense the ebb and flow of mana--something he's been able to do before this place, but the differences in the ability as compared to what he's used to is enough to make him need a moment to adjust.]

[--He can feel the magical energies in the flaming rain. The 'motes' that make it up--no, that's the wrong term. The bindings that tie the magical energies together.]

[He slashes at one with his katana, but all he gets for his effort is a faceful of soot. Coughing, he shouts out to Soleil.]

A-a little longer, maybe..!

[brightsmile]

[Well, that's not the best answer she could have hoped for. But it's an answer! So she'll continue covering for her new ally.]

A little longer? Got it. But I can't keep this up all day!

[Just a friendly reminder. But it's nothing harsh or mean. She'll just get tired eventually if Ed doesn't you know HURRY UP.]

[fuhrinkaed]

[He can feel the magic, and how it's constructed-it's different from his home, of course, but similar enough that he can see the basic idea.]

[If he hits the bindings, then maybe...]

[He drops his weapons beside him, this time smacking one of the flames with a karate chop. It breaks apart into--!]

[He recognizes this. It's different, but somewhat familiar all the same.]

[Ripping the mana from the spell, he reforms it into a dart and fires it right at one of the griffons. It doesn't hurt it very much, but it lands on its head and the heat forces one to blink and lose its orientation. Which... causes it to crash into a second one.]

[And then they topple.]

Hah! Got it! I figured out how it works!

[brightsmile]

Whoa—! Nice shot!

[Soleil can stand down for the moment. Because wow! That was pretty amazing! She's going to stay on her guard though. Maybe if this guy can fire from behind... she can take them face to face.]

Hey, can you keep doing that? I think I can work with what you've got back there!

[fuhrinkaed]

Magic's always been my specialty. I've got the hang of it now, so...

[Another rider uses the spell from before, the one that changes geysers to lava. He smacks it away as well, changing it back to...scalding hot water all over him.]

[ow. ow. ow. NO TIME TO BE HURT, he channels the magic from it into another flaming dart--launching it at another of the griffons. It's not as good of a shot, but it still forces them to stay honest.]

Yeah! Definitely got it! I'll be your shield, you focus on takin' them down!

[brightsmile]

[Yikes, that didn't look to good. She's going to step back after she's dealt with more of the enemies. She has time to check on her partner for the moment. This was not really the best time to be hurt, after all.

Not that it could be helped.]

Hey, you okay?

[Don't worry Ed, she's got you if enemies try to attack them from here.]

[fuhrinkaed]

[He's already focusing some magic on low-level healing spells, just to make sure that he's not left stiff and unable to move by his sudden bout with boiling.]

God's breath. God's breath..!

I-I'm fine. Really, I don't get slowed down by things like this. [That's an exaggeration, but he seems to be okay.] Th-thanks, though!

[More Riders circle.]

Are you ready for round two..?

[brightsmile]

[Please do not boil yourself alive, new friend. That would be absolutely horrible.]

Round two, three, four if it takes that.

[She sounds a little exhausted. But right now is not the time to be giving up.]

We'll be okay if we keep doing what we were doing. Sorry for asking too much of you so soon.

[fuhrinkaed]

It's fine. Just hold my hand when we have a break, it'll keep us both a little fresher than normal.

[He sheathes both his staff and his scimitar (Apparently he stores them in an x-pattern on his back?) as he cracks his knuckles and prepares to go back to work blocking what ranged spells he can.]

They told you about how mana exchanging works already, right? It's super useful for times like this.

[brightsmile]

Right! They told me how it works. I just haven't done it too many times yet. Being kind of new and all.

[Soleil is going to dart around at that, taking enemies out initially with a burst from her given flamethrower and then trying to follow up with the sword. It definitely seems like Soleil is more comfortable handling a sword over anything else.]

Focus a little more heavily on the right.

[fuhrinkaed]

Got it!

[He focuses on the indicated area, hitting spells putting him in his element. His Knight Watch senses and his ability to destroy spells are serving him well, the occasional dart or shuriken or spear coming from behind her to give additional support.]

[This does lead to one very important question, though: When one of the griffons opens their mouth and shoot freakin' lightning at Soleil, what does she do? Because that is some lightning for sure.]

[brightsmile]

[She thought she was doing well and then the lightening attack happened. Thankfully Soleil is going to be mostly okay! The worst the happens is debris getting flung her way.]

Lightening?! Really?

[SHE SOUNDS FRUSTRATED. But the griffon is coming for round two of lightening. R-rude. This time it might be going for both of us, Ed. WHAT WILL WE DO?]

Hey, you! Move! Move!

[fuhrinkaed]

Right! [After the first time, Ed expects what's coming when the beak opens and he's already dashed off to the side of where the bolt is going to be aimed.]

[He whips his scimitar out, jumping forward with the reverse blade weapon over his head. Mana rockets from the back of it as he tucks in, pouring energy into sending him spinning uncontrollably into the griffon.]

[Luckily, the sword is reverse bladed so nobody's getting sliced to hell.]

[Unluckily, he used too much mana so he's crashed into it with his full body much harder than should be advisable.]

W-weeeh....

[brightsmile]

[Well, that certainly wasn't a move that she would have advised using or anything. So she's gonna have to go check on her battle partner right now.]

Um, are you okay?

[She's gonna fight off the grounded riders but, yikes— that looked like it hurt pretty badly.]

[fuhrinkaed]

I'm... [He stands up, staggering back and forth as he tries to shake the cobwebs out of his head.]

I'm okay.

I think so, anyways. Ugh. Didn't mean to go quite that wild.

[brightsmile]

We should be safe for the moment. Do you need to go sit down somewhere?

[That was kind of concerning! I mean! More concerning than most things she's seen!]

That was pretty impressive, even if it was a little crazy of you.

[fuhrinkaed]

Eheh... Impressive but crazy is sort of my thing. [He takes a deep breath, releases it, and gives Soleil a big nod.]

I'll be just fine! It'll take more than motion sickness and ramming into some enemies to throw me off! Thanks for worrying, though.

[brightsmile]

Is that right?

[She's back to laughing and smiling again, that was enough to ease her worries at least.]

How about we try less crazy if they come barreling at us again?

[fuhrinkaed]

Yeah, it's right.

--But I can turn down the crazy for you, for next time. Just make sure you watch my back and I'll watch yours too, okay?

[brightsmile]

Mm, you don't have to turn down the crazy for me! Turn it down for yourself if anyone.

[S H R U G.]

[fuhrinkaed]

Eheh... Well, I guess I could do that too.

[He scratches his cheek, before looking back at the circling griffons.]

Well... back into the fray, it seems like. How's your mana holding up?

[brightsmile]

[ Ugh, more griffons. They'll just have to keep at it... won't they?]

I'm getting a little tired. But it's going to be fine. I'm sure these creeps will back off eventually.

[fuhrinkaed]

Yeah. At some point it won't be possible to justify throwing more men at us.

[Offering Soleil a hand though.]

Grab on. We'll exchange mana.

[brightsmile]

At least you hope they have enough sense for that.

[ She'll easily accept the hand. ]

You're not tired, are you?

[fuhrinkaed]

[He squeezes her hand, and she'll feel a cool, refreshing sort of breezy and fluffy sensation from his mana.]

Not by a longshot. I'm no stranger to a battlefield, y'know? B-but I've learned that making sure to exchange whenever you have the chance keeps everyone in the army running smoothly---so it's just a good idea.