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

4b

[locktouches]

[There's something very invigorating about winning a battle - he was used to them, and the thrill of victory, especially close ones. But it was definitely the moments afterwards, once the battle was over and people were still riding on the adrenaline of victory, that were the best.

Less murder, more drunk people with loose lips willing to spill secrets and tidbits of information.

And food, apparently. Confusing food, if the woman frowning at it like it's about to rise up and attack her is anything to go by. Reaching out, he slips a spare spoon off one of the tables and sticks it into the dessert as he passes.

... It's heavy. And sweet, with fruit.]

Edible.

[Look how helpful he is.]

[showsnopiety]

[Well, she's glad she hasn't been torn to pieces by goats. It was pretty close there by the end. And well, can't be too sure about murder. She's actually not protective of food, but...it's her food.

She stares up at him, unblinking. Yeah she's...not pleased with this development.]

That's it? Edible?

[If it's just edible, you can have it Niles. Also you can get a bite taken out of you too, in a bit.]

[locktouches]

[You asked, Caren. You asked.]

Better than inedible.

[He spins the spoon in his hands thoughtfully, then brings it down to tap it against the table.]

Don't worry, I promise I'm not carrying anything deadly. [Other than a bow, arrows and formative years as in a street gang. The usual.]

[showsnopiety]

[That wasn't how she wanted her answer...!!]

If you can put it in your mouth, it technically counts for being edible.

[Technically. She stares up at him, and her eyes narrow. Oh, really.]

Somehow I doubt that.

[She pushes over the bowl his way with her fork. Ugh.]

Since you started it, you can finish eating it. I'll stick to my cream ale for now.

[Why can't she have wine? Or coffee? Cuz she's cheap and it ain't free!]

[locktouches]

[Well, he's not going to turn down free food at all. Although he wonder what it says about someone who is so willing to let their food go like that.]

How rude. [He waves his utensil idly.] You should trust your fellow warriors more.

[He spoons another bite of the pilfered dessert into his mouth.]

Cream ale?

[showsnopiety]

[What do you want her to start the war of the bread? Nah.]

I trust you won't kill me or give me anything. Isn't that enough?

[She shows him the bottle, though not close enough for him to grab it. She's still hungry, so this'll be her snack for now, thank you very much.]

Cream ale. It does have a smooth taste.

[locktouches]

[There are enough wars going on here, without adding more to them.]

Fair enough. [It's more than he'd trust Caren or anyone here with, honestly. But he didn't have to say that out loud.

He cranes his head slightly to take a look at the bottle.]

... Paler than the sort of ale I'm used to seeing.

[showsnopiety]

[True. Though she wouldn't say no to a spat or two to perk up her day. Also, she's not sure he won't kill her. But you know. It's a polite thing to say.]

Might be because it's meant to be smooth. I'm not certain; I'm not very well versed in beers or ales.

Though the Lasker Train Bombs aren't bad. The name is in poor taste though.

[locktouches]

[If she plays her cards right they can have a cat fight. It'd be wonderful.]

Most ale I've sampled has been fairly dark, so I can't really make too much of a judgement. [He motions with his spoon again.] But I don't think you'd be willing to let me try it.

[Oh. Oho, really?]

Or someone with a sharp, dark sense of humour, depending on how you look at it.

[showsnopiety]

[Everyone would want to watch it, it'd be great.]

They've a bunch of darks as well. But you're right, I'm not going to.

[She shrugs. She might have had a few of those before someone put this thing in front of her. Rook benefits.]

However- we can try to find you both if you're interested.

drags self slowly back here it's been 84 years

[locktouches]

Sharing is caring~

[Don't listen to him. Ignore him. Completely.]

An ale with both a dark colour, and a dark, sharp sense of humour?

[Stop.]

no wonder their hair is white

[showsnopiety]

[She just. Looks at him for a long, long moment. And she slinks over, and makes to press her hand against his chest, guiding it upwards.

That is, if Niles lets her.]

Oh, just the dark colour. We don't need something with the dark sharp sense of humour.

We already have that.

he's gone blind in one eye--oh wait

[locktouches]

[Niles leans back very slightly; Caren will be fine to do her slow hand glide upwards... but a scant centimetre or so from Niles' actual chest.]

Hmm. I'm sure we'll find something somewhere.

[Just probably not by Caren's hand on his chest...]

wheezes

[showsnopiety]

[It's like a hover glide. She laughs quietly, and moves back to grab her Cream Ale.]

But we won't find it by sitting around. Come; there should be something nearby.

you're welcome

[locktouches]

[It's probably considered seductive, somewhere in the wide world. The whole 'hover just over the skin thing'. It's okay, he gets that his man-boobs are irresistible.]

Lead the way. This seems to be your specialty.

[showsnopiety]

[ Niles she just wanted to make you squirm put your tits away.]

Taking the lead or teasing you with what you could have?

[Just wondering. She'll just sunder over to the nearest open bar, thank you very much.]

[locktouches]

[But look at them, they're glorious. Get to support level A and he might let you stroke them for real, Caren.]

Oho. Only you know the answer to that, I believe.

[Both, probably.]

[showsnopiety]

Perhaps. But I'm always interested in others desires.

[These two, support level A? That might be terrifying, tit stroking aside.

Also yes. It's both.]

[locktouches]

Oh? Are you some kind of audio pervert? Living vicariously through other's desires?

[How very lewd of you, Caren.

They'd probably take over the world. It'd be glorious.]

[showsnopiety]

No, I'm far more hands on with my perversion. But if I don't know what the other person wants, how am I to know?

[She shrugs.

She might be a little lewd. Also they would. The world would be terrified. Poor world.]

[locktouches]

Ah. So just a pervert, plain and simple then. [No attempts to pretend otherwise. He can approve.]

It's true though. Things must be experienced to know what someone enjoys.

[The world had it coming.]

[showsnopiety]

Just like everyone else.

[She just doesn't deny it. There's no point.]

And I agree. If you don't experience it, how are you to know if you like it or you don't?

[The world had it coming all along.]

[locktouches]

Oh, I don't know. Some people need quite a bit of coaxing to reach pervert levels.

[Still, the inner pervert is still there. Waiting.]

Exactly! Some things in life need experiencing. From the every day to the more unique.

[Like with food. Or sex. Or dark ales.]

[showsnopiety]

I believe that's what you call 'a hard nut to crack?'

[The inner pervert is lurking. Watching.]

It seems we both agree. Speaking of-

[She takes a few moments, a quick conversation and...ta da, check this out Niles.]

The drink you wanted?

[Dark, delicious, and frosty in her hand, just waiting for him to take it.]

[locktouches]

[Niles snorts.] That's never the case with men.

[He raises an eyebrow, first at Caren and then at the drink.]

My highly trained instincts are telling me there's a catch here.

[What's she gonna do? Try and rub the ice cold drink against his bosom this time?]