Assignments / DM Buzz Thursday July 15th, 2010 2:26:27 AM The majority have decided to return to the manor. Since Wynum only suggested adventuring in the sewers and did not specify leaving the group, the DM will assume everyone is home safe and sound. :)
The morning dawns nice and bright with just a few clouds overhead, in no way pending more rain, at least for a few hours. Cobblestone walk ways and brick lined side walks glisten with moisture from the short down pour the group experienced this morning. In preparation of the day, the group sets off toward the debate. The city is bustling with merchants setiing up vending carts with hot breads and pastries as well as meat pies, line the walk way, as well as cotton candy, caramel covered kettle corn and hats. "Don't forget your hat to protect you from the seasons!" Call a young many carrying around a dozen over each shoulder, walking through the crowd and approaching anyone without head gear, "One gold a piece for a bit of protection? Thermo will shine bright today." The groups winds it's way through a small circus of people and lanes until the finally approach The Gold Arena, in the Gladiator Park Quarter. A massive structure capable of holding 40,000 people. Special box seats available for taurs and other large citizens, like ogres and trolls. It is surrounded by trees, tall and thick. Hundreds of years old, they protect those walking along Unicorn Trail toward the main entrance.
Constable Rabbitsfoot is having a meeting of heroes starting about two hours before they allow the populace into the area. There are no seen members of the mighty Dragon groups of the city, but there are some well known troupes eager to lend a hand to what they consider their city. First, you have Griffin Riders. They have been asked to do an aerial patrol of the arenas walls, making sure no one is climbing up the side or lurking in the tree tops. To the leaders of the Mailed Fist, they are asked to station themselves in the stands, especially where some of the more chaotic crowds tamed a bit. No need in another near mob incident to occur, when there are so many innocents present also. Hands of Many, a multi classed, monk based adventuring guild has been asked to patrol, with the militia the Unicorn Trail and stay near the entrances to the quarter. Lastly, the Mithril Order. The Halfling turns to you all and says, "Something special about the lot of you, for you have the luck of halfling spirit about you all. It seems, you have earned the trust of both the mayor and the city council. Likely something that hasn't ever happened before in my short life. Lynom spoke well of you to the council as well as Sturtevant and they would like for you all to stay near the pedestal of the candidates. A show of force and unity as well as diversity. If something is to happen, they are to be whisked away to separate areas of the underground pits and exited out and away to there private manors. Your job is one of protection. Are you up for it? Quite a bit responsibility."
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday July 15th, 2010 5:13:46 AM
Arm buys one of the vendor's hats, more out of pity than of necessity. Donning it, he continues through the crowd with the rest of the party. Once Rabbitsfoot has explained their task to them, he says to him, "Well, it seems that you have the situation well in hand with the other groups, but I'll be happy to lend a hand where needed," thinking that a harder task will be watching the crowd and paying attention to what is being said at the same time.
Wynum Thursday July 15th, 2010 11:31:42 AM
"Well, as long as I can stay a bit away from the podium. The last aggressors we have seen were keen on fireballs. This does not strike me as wise to stay bunched together with the potential targets. I will stay some distance away. After all, if we're too close, it will only contribute to make people fear attacks, right?"
Wynum therefore searches for an adequate spot where he could keep watch on the podium.
Thar Thursday July 15th, 2010 2:30:16 PM
As they walk through the crowds, Thar enjoys "people" watching, as well as all the preparation for the big event. He's glad that so many groups have volunteered to step forward and help provide security. It seems that their order has one of the most crucial tasks, and he echoes Arm's comments. "Yes, we'll provide some security and safety for the leaders...."
Thinking for a moment, he asks, "I've got some questions about who exactly we are to take with us re: candidates (numbers, ...) , where exactly are the entrances to the underground pits, how far are they away, and where are the private manors? Also, are there any limits on what we can do re: protecting the candidates and are we authorized to use lethal force in order to protect our charges?"
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 110/110 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Thursday July 15th, 2010 3:29:50 PM
Revi remains silent, letting those better with words to speak for the group--whatever it was they were getting into, she was up for it.
Trixy Thursday July 15th, 2010 9:11:53 PM
Trixy stands near Revi, comparing their foot size together. Bandit chitters happily in her ear. She suddenly looks panicked and continues measuring feet. Finally, she frowns and yells at the weasel.
"Bandit! Hush! The size of her foot says absolutely nothing about the skill of the druid!"
She looks around and grins sheepishly.
"Sorry."
Edmund d20+8=21 ; d20+12=31 ; d20+3=7 ; d20+3=13 ; Thursday July 15th, 2010 9:49:38 PM
Edmund is pleased to hear the Mithril Order spoken of highly, and agrees with Thar's questioning.
Additionally, he scans the crowd to see if he can notice anything unusual or any people of note, but the bustle and commotion of the crowd is difficult for his text-strained eyes and overly-sensitive half-elven hearing.
Thar Saturday July 17th, 2010 10:22:31 AM
Checking in...
OOC: Exit stage left / DM Buzz Monday July 19th, 2010 12:06:05 AM
ooc: Greetings all. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend.
Jim/Revi will be moving to another game, in order to experience a higher level game, especially with some of the new site additions we are heading toward. Let us all wish him well at his new venue.
As for the Mithril Order, I know we are slowly shrinking and we might not get any more players for a while, since our site recruiter is on vacation.
Let us just think of this game as an old fashioned table top game for a bit. I will be including a bit more information into my posts, with this scene leading up into the election, as well, you all will be fairly busy rather soon, but it will be nothing that the five of you can not handle.
I will take a day to field any question or concerns some of you might have. If I don't get any, we will continue with the scene, exiting Revi with honor and setting the group up in locations as well as answering the questions posed in your previous posts.
Revi AC24/14T/24FF HP 110/110 -- Arashi AC19/11T/17FF HP 46/46 Monday July 19th, 2010 1:51:33 AM
As Revi was standing there and taking in everything she noticed a small squat young man, most likely a barbarian from his manner of dress, staring at her. She would have simply turned away if it hadn't been for the Sun Bear tattoo he bore. A cold chill ran down her spine when the young man approached. Instinctivily her hand moved to her weapon, but the young man raised his hands in peace. When he was close enough for Revi to smell him, he spoke quietly, "I know who you are, Revi Kinslayer. The hunt continues, if you stay here, everything you hold dear will be destroyed. Your choice. You have one hour, then we pursue." The young man spat at her feet, then turned away and disappeared into the burgeoning crowd.
An ill-fated life, born of strife and woe. How much longer, she thought to herself. Looking at her new found friends, she gave in, she would not drag them into this. With a soft embrace of her well-muscled arm around Edmund's waist, she pulled him close and spoke softly, "Just shut up and listen. My past has caught up with me and I will not bring shame and disgrace to the Order. I thought I had somehow eluded it because I was clever or lucky, but I was just lying to myself. Edmund, take care of the Order as you always have, and tell the rest it was my honor to fight alongside them. Tell them... tell them goodbye for me." She gave him a sad smile, then slipped into the crowd, her arm that had been around Edmunds waist raised as she waved goodbye, then she was gone.
Thank you all for letting me share in your adventures :)
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Monday July 19th, 2010 5:20:44 AM
OOC: Best of luck to you Jim, and Revi's sword arm will be missed! :)
Thar Monday July 19th, 2010 10:43:09 AM
(Good luck Jim and it was great having you here! I hope you hvae a great time in your new game and we'll miss you ;-) )
Preparing for action / DM Buzz Monday July 19th, 2010 8:35:28 PM Arm looks dashing in his new hat. Some how, it matches his adventurers clothes well. He is correct in what his duties will entail. It is confirmed by Constable Rabbitsfoot. "Yes, yes, watch the crowd indeed. Especially for those that might try to rush the stage. If it's one or two, just occupy them until help arrives.
Wynum states his positioning with the orders and he is put at ease, "The arena is magically protected. Nothing can be summoned or cast into or out of the arena. It is secure from all magic. The ingoing magical protection are temporary, just imbued this morning, but the arena has a permanent magical ward, to protect spectators from spells..
Thar wants specifics and the constable gives him an approving wink with a nod, "Now I know why they wanted you folks close. Which ever candidate is attacked is the one you will protect. Me and my crew will be having to deal with crowd control if something happens. Gormley and I believe, if one is attacked, it will be by a supporter of another. If by the slim chance they are both attacked though, you will have to split up, won't ya? We have trap openings right behind the candidates, five feet away. If something happens, they will both be opened at they will exit. Below are their personal assistants. They will tell you where to take them, if that need arises. As for lethal force, be Domied sure no innocents are hurt. Only use as much force as needed. Disgruntled citizens and anarchists from abroad use these occasions for their own and today, it will not be made a mockery!"
Edmund is happy his cleric companions has covered the basics and begins his own scouting mission before they are in position. Over there by the fountain is a carriage carrying the Family Witherspoon. The husband, a general in the Plateau City army and wife, the inheritor to a massive gem and jewelry cartel. To be invited to one of their ball's would put an up and coming local hero on the A-list of a city.
Trixy takes in the many sites available today. Every person from every facet of life is here today. Almost everyone is wearing an arm band, in support of their favorite candidates. She moves with the group, through the crowd and taken down into the large arena setting, before the candidates have arrived, likely through some form of magical transportation for safety sake.
The crowd slowly grows in size as seats are filled. Smells of tobacco and sweat begins to fill the air. A draft will bring along the scent of perfumes brought along with the warm summer breeze as clouds fly gently over head, following the whims of the winds.
Already, members of The Mailed Fist are handing people over to the militia for being disorderly. A mood setting standard as they are booed by the anarchists at heart, but after a couple of hours, the time is set for the candidates to come out. An adventuring group called the Devil's Advocates cause a bit of a problem as they are always looking for trouble in the city, when they are not looking or looting treasure outside of the city. They are a motley group with two half orcs, an elf and two dwarves, all of whom have a nasty disposition and some say, although not open about their beliefs, they follow the ways of Caeroldra. They relent when approached by the members of the Fist though and are allowed to stay, even if watched very closely.
ooc: The group can be twenty feet away or further away from the candidates, but any group member that is over fifty feet away will not be a part of getting the candidate away and can assist in crowd control or detainment of aggressors. We will split the arena up into NW/NE/SW/SE quadrants. The arena is way, way to large to turn into a map, so if battle breaks out and a scale map is needed, we will go from there, depending on where the battle takes place. I will let Edmund break the news about Revi to everyone so that a response can take place within your post.
Wynum Monday July 19th, 2010 9:37:47 PM
Wynum will stay about 30 feet from the podium, in the quadrant that affords him the best field of view towards the Devil's Advocates.
Trixy Monday July 19th, 2010 11:04:50 PM
Trixy takes care to set herself as far away from the crowd in general as she can. Taking time to work with the spells she has, she looks for a place she can climb a little higher and see everything that she normally couldnt.
Edmund (HP 54/54, AC 12) Message Tuesday July 20th, 2010 12:42:32 AM
Edmund is shocked nearly out of his skin at Revi's sudden embrace. He finds himself quite unable to speak, whatever her command, and so he listens in complete silence as she speaks to him.
When she lets him go, his first conclusion is that this is just another of her jokes, and he cracks a sarcastic smile at her--until he sees the expression on her face. Then, the wizard knows at once that she was being serious, and the smile--and colour--fade from his face. He looks like he is about to be ill.
As Revi waves goodbye, Edmund begins to formally salute, but stops halfway. His shoulders sag a bit as he instead waves to her, knowing that he won't be seeing her again.
"...Goodbye," he says quietly.
After Revi disappears into the crowd, Edmund stands numbly, staring through the crowd, completely ignorant of any sound or happening taking place. He neither speaks, nor moves, even as people brush past him, whispering things such as, "Isn't that Edmund from the Mithril Order?" Several minutes pass before he forces himself to regain his composure.
Edmund then sets out to meet the other members of the Mithril Order, casting Message on them as he goes. He says nothing of Revi's departure until after all the members of the MO have been en-Messaged.
"Revi had to... ah... go for a bit," he says into the Message spell, once he has returned to his original position. "Very sudden--she wanted me to let you all know. I'll tell you more about it later. What's important is that we remain focused on the task at hand, right? Right so. I'm going to check out the Witherspoons, since they're here. I want to make sure everything is all right with them, considering they are a conspicuous target."
With that, Edmund makes his way to the carriage of the Witherspoons, announcing to the crowd in an authoritative voice, "Edmund, Archmage of the Mithril Order, stand aside please, stand aside."
When he reaches the carriage, he knocks quietly, and announces himself with the usual titles and honorifics, and enquires of the Witherspoons if their security is to their satisfaction, and if there is anything the Archmage Edmund can do to put them at ease.
Spells - Durations - Effects Message on Mithril Order - 1000 Rounds - Communicate across across distances and through light barriers. (PH 253)
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday July 20th, 2010 5:26:37 AM
Arm joins Wynum in moving toward the Devil's Advocates, reasoning that he's better off away from the half-orcs where HE may be the one to cause problems with them. He takes up a position about 20 feet from the stage, and tries his best to look observant without LOOKING like he's observing.
OOC: I don't mean to be a pain, but...Ed and Trixy...Buzz said in his post to Wynum that the area is warded against all magic, so I suppose your Message spell didn't take, Ed...and a word to the wise for Trixy... :)
Thar Tuesday July 20th, 2010 10:18:41 AM
Thar watches the Devil's Advocates stir up some trouble, but it seems the Mailed Fist has them handled for now. He's glad that they stepped in, but he would have liked to knock down the DA's a rung or two to show them how unliked they really are...
He hears Revi's reason for leavings and sadly nods his understanding. Life sometimes intrudes on our plans...
Returning the matter at hand, Thar tries to stay close to the delegates (20'). He makes sure there is a clear path b/t them and the escape door, and if anyone does block it, then he'll gently move them aside and give some religious excuse for his actions. He makes sure he's in his clerical robe and tries to seem as one of their religious advisers rather than a bodyguard... Hopefully this will detract attention from him...
Preparing for action / DM Buzz Tuesday July 20th, 2010 10:46:50 AM
ooc: No Arm, I apologioze for not being clear.
The arena is warded from magic from the spectator stands and the spectator stands are warded from the arena. Magic works normally in those two areas, the magic just can't cross the barrier.
Trixy Tuesday July 20th, 2010 11:47:45 PM
Trixy sits bored, watching the whole proceedings. Armed only with spells that are particularly useful against undead, she is unhappy that their wild-ghost-chase led them gone so far into the night that she was unable to reorganize her spell power.
Not that she was anything much compared to Edmund, but still..
She liked to be prepared.
Preparing for action / DM Buzz Wednesday July 21st, 2010 4:45:28 AM
Sorry for missing a post yesterday guys. Life got real hectic. Might be this way for a couple more weeks while I execute my dads will.
Post coming later today.
Thar Wednesday July 21st, 2010 10:16:35 AM
OOC - Hey guys and gals... I'll be gone from 24 - 31 July on a church mission trip, where I'll be leading a bunch of High School youth to Cleveland... I'll try to post in the evenings if we have Inet access...
Trixy Wednesday July 21st, 2010 9:54:38 PM
OOC: When it rains it pours. I've got a lot going on right now and am going to retire down to 1 character. Since Trixy is my newest, I'll be shedding this one. It's been fun everyone. Too bad I never got to pull Trixy into combat, not that her Druid/Wizard abilities wouldve done much.
Thar Thursday July 22nd, 2010 11:09:43 AM
Checking in...
Debates begin / DM Buzz Thursday July 22nd, 2010 8:06:15 PM
The loss of those that contribute to a unit of people leave lasting impact on those that are within it. Revi will be missed as thoughts of her running around in her underwear flash through those that lived with her. The thought is to much for Trixie to bear. Oh, she loves the Mithril Order, but they don't need anything. Revi though, she has need of a friend and no one is a better friend then a druid friend. She too says goodbye to the others and uses Dace to look for her or Arashi. May their journeys be joyous and without unwanted incident.
Even with the loss, Edmund knows, life in the city must go on and getting to know your neighbors is important. As he approaches the carriage of the Witherspoons, he is intercepted by their own personal guard. Some of the elite for the defense of New Elenna and greeted well. A sharp captain, clean cut with dress blue pants and jersey, each lined with intricate gold weave. One can see he wears four medals on his chest, mounted on a tight fitting, closed collar and long sleeved parade uniform. "His and Her Lordship are not receiving visitors at this time. If you would like to leave a message or set up an appointment, their offices will be open tomorrow." His hands go no where near the brilliantly artistic saber that hangs from his hip... Later in the arena he can take either the NW or SW quadrant, in order to cover the incumbent Sturtevant, whom is scheduled to come out soon..
Standing not from where Caal will be staged to speak against the ideas of a king, Wynum watches the trouble making Devil's Advocates, waiting for something to happen. His massive frame an intimidating structure of muscle, sinew and bone. Looking up into the faces of thousands of people is not something centaurs get a chance to do very often, let alone tens of thousands.
Arm joins him in the NW quadrant, also covering Caal. The bard in him strums his heart strings as his nature would be to entertain this crowd, yet his want to perform stilled by needing to perform a serious and important duty, guarding the leaders of today and the future. An indication that hard work and good deeds are rewarded, not just in money but Honor and fame as well.
Thar is saddened by the loss of the groups two druids, but those that are bound to the earth, such as they have agendas unknown to clerics or other classes and they are to be respected for their decisions. Entering the arena, positioning himself near to the two podiums, he can see the crowd settling in. Clerics and priests of many kind are attending the event today and they tend to sit in groups throughout the large arena. Waiting patiently for the event to begin.
And so it does...
The main seating of this arena is enormous and that is where those of "common" birth are seated, but down in front and surrounding the main podium are the most influential of the city and their retinue and guards. The milling around the podium platform is to be expected at first and settles down after awhile, but the sheer number of people involved here comes to bear as a small roar rumbles down onto the field from all the people talking and moving. It will only be through powerful magic that the debate can be heard by all, through the entire complex..
The two podiums are 10' feet apart and turned length wise with the field, facing each other, they will debate this day on the key issues the city had brought up in debates past. Ten feet behind each podium is their exit and entrance. The small hole leads down into sharp corridors which will take a candidate out of the arena and through tunnels out of the quarter.
When the time is right, a cheer is heard through the complex as Sturtevant slowly walks up the stairs and waves to the crowd. He has a high charisma and seems to shine in his white and red robes. With a black belt and boots to bring his wardrobe to a close, he is of noble bearing himself. His middle aged visage one of experience and confidence. He easily takes the podium with authority and determination and waits for his opponent.
Then, out comes Caal, after some waiting. Wearing a blue tunic and black leather pants, his style impresses the younger generations and those that avoid conformity. The free spirits that want to keep the city under a multiple mandated government, doesn't feel it is the best government, to those of this mind, but it is better then being under the thumb of one person. The crowd goes a bit wild with his entrance and he raises his arms in the air as if he has already won the race. Those sitting close to the podiums, out of the arena stands do not seem to be as exuberant in their support of the young man, but it is clear, the nobles have more to lose then anyone, potentially.
Please make Listen and Spot checks.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] d20+17=25 ; d20+9=10 ; Friday July 23rd, 2010 6:31:03 AM
Taking special care not to favor one candidate over another, Arm politely claps for them both, all the while keeping a sharp eye and ear out for any signs of trouble, though his ear seems to be better than his eye today (listen=25, spot=10).
Edmund (HP 54/54, AC 12) Message, Mage Armour d20+15=31 ; d20+3=15 ; d20+3=10 ; Friday July 23rd, 2010 12:41:23 PM
Edmund smiles diplomatically at the guard, and informs him that he is from the Mithril Order, and that he just wanted to make certain that their security needs were amply provided for. (Diplomacy=31)
"And," he says to the guard, "I can see their security is first-rate. Keep up the fine work!"
With that, he heads back towards the platform of Mayor Sturtevant. He also makes certain that the crowd is fully aware of whom he is, and does his level best to be as near the platform as possible. He also takes the opportunity to cast Mage Armour on himself.
If Edmund manages to catch the Mayor's eye, he gives Sturtevant an encouraging smile.
Otherwise, Edmund does his best (admittedly, not very well), to pay attention to the crowd. (Listen=15, Spot=10)
Spells - Durations - Effects Message on Mithril Order - 1 Hour 40 Minutes - Communicate across across distances and through light barriers. (PH 253) Mage Armour on Self - 10 Hours - +4 Armour Bonus to AC. (PH 249)
Thar d20+19=24 ; d20+13=32 ; Friday July 23rd, 2010 2:47:56 PM
Thar maintains his quiet observance of the crowds and watches closely for any that could raise problems or cause trouble. He occasionally checks in with Wynum, Arm and Edmund to ensure that they haven't seen anything... He ensures that his glasses are clean to ensure they're able to give him a good view of everyone...
Spot = 24 Listen = 32
CDM Jerry [OOC] Friday July 23rd, 2010 3:28:45 PM
Mithril, I have sent an email to all of you. If you didn't get it, please email me and let me know. I need replies by Monday if you can please.
Don't ignore this please.
ooc / DM Buzz Tuesday July 27th, 2010 12:52:03 AM
The time has come for us to wrap this game up. There are some things, some of you might want to settle, like Arm and his girlfriend as well as Thar and Ruby. How will these issues be wrapped up so you guys can move on?
Also, I am going to leave the fate of the Wold in your hands my friends. You four get a vote to choose the next king of New Ellena or have the Kingdom continue under the authority of a council and the castle will sit even longer, empty save for the skeleton crew that keeps it clean.
Let me know what you want to do and we will get this all wrapped up in a couple of weeks.
Thanks all.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday July 27th, 2010 5:40:46 AM
OOC: Buzz, once we get a firm story bridge in place, I'll make a post that will dovetail with it :)
ooc / DM Buzz Tuesday July 27th, 2010 4:07:58 PM
ooc: Hmm, I was kind of hoping for your ideas so I might be able to build a bridge, but I can wing it.
Post tonight.
Edmund (HP 54/54, AC 12) Message, Mage Armour Wednesday July 28th, 2010 1:19:33 AM
((My vote is for the council. It will give Ed something to grind his teeth about for ages, and he is always fond of having something to grumble about.))
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Wednesday July 28th, 2010 5:14:54 AM
OOC: OH, sorry... :) I'll vote for the council as well, and since Arm won't be in the City anymore, he'll have to bid Marie a proper goodbye. Since she was traveling with the gambling troupe, perhaps they'll meet again someday? :)
A message to the people / DM Buzz Wednesday July 28th, 2010 10:24:02 AM
Sturtevant waits for the crowd to hush. When he speaks the podium glows faintly blue, and his voice is magically amplified throughout the arena.
"Right now this city is engaged in a battle of ideas for the city's future. On the one side of this battle we have a vision for Plateau City's future which says that, when it comes to economic prosperity, you cannot have economic prosperity and social justice -- that these are," Sturtevant looks meaningfully towards Caal's supporters in their orange armbands, "incompatible.
"There is another view, another vision -- and it is my vision," he waits for the enormous cheer to fade, "which says that this City and this people are at their best when we are a people and a city committed to building ourselves as a prosperous City while at the same time not jettisoning our vision for a fair Plateau City and a fair society. In an absolute nutshell that is the divide between us -- a view of the world which says it is about me, myself and I, and an alternative view which says that we are about a society, a City, which, sure, recognises that individual hard work, achievement and success are to be encouraged and rewarded but, at the same time, that we cannot turn a blind eye to the interests of our fellow people who are not doing well.
"Ideas in politics are important. They in fact affect everything that we do. They shape our vision of what is possible for the government to do for the City. They shape the concrete dimensions of policies which are brought forth in this chamber. Ideas shape the content of legislation. They shape everything that is done in this place, and that is why on this occasion it is important to revisit what actually divides us.
"What are our different views of the role of government and society? What are our different views of what the state can do to help its people? Because this divide between us is fundamental to the debate that we are going today. It is a debate which also impacts fundamentally on the interests of Plateau City families."
It is with this, the two engage in a blistering debate for the next couple of hours and at various times, it seems Caal is way out of his league when it comes to plans for the future. It seems the young man might even be a puppet to the council as he looks off into the close proximity of the nobles for support when answering the questions of his opponent. However, when Caal asks Stutervant questions, the answers are clear, concise and well planned. between the two, those against a kingdom coming to Plateau City can be glad, Caal will likely not make the three elections to be king himself.
A night of fun or fatigue / DM Buzz Thursday July 29th, 2010 12:52:30 AM
The debates end with no harm done. The Mithril order has prestige amongst the populace. Well deserved prestige as well. While the beginning part of a few hours go by as people begin pouring slowly out of the arena, Caal and Sturtevant shake each of your hands and adjourn safely to their residences.
The group has been up most of last night and all of today. The four that remain can either go hope and get some well deserved sleep or, knowing they do not have commitments tomorrow, they can go party at Sampsons and relish their new notoriety. The militia guards nod their heads towards the heros as they make their way out of the arena. Their respect is clear as is their impression of the group is something they hope to attain someday themselves. Being one of the few left in the arena, night slowly pulls it's dark blanket over the city with a few members of the Hands of Many and the Mailed Fist offering to buy you all the first round.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Thursday July 29th, 2010 6:28:46 AM
Arm gratefully accepts the offer of a drink or three, but promises himself not to stay very long, as he is starting to feel the ache of no sleep in his very bones.
Thar Thursday July 29th, 2010 10:13:23 AM
Thar enjoys the time to rest, especially since there appears to be peace and a decided lack of conflict, at least for now. He enjoys the time with the rest of the MO, especially Arm and Edmund, and then goes to bed for a well deserved rest...
(OOC - Re: Ruby, we closed that out a month or 2 ago where she had to run off for a family emergency... Thar was a bit hurt since his fiancee bailed, but he had met a cute human wizard at the college...)
Edmund (HP 54/54, AC 12) Message, Mage Armour Friday July 30th, 2010 11:29:35 AM
The wizard passes up the offer of a free drink on account of being very tired from lack of sleep. The order has been hard pressed lately.
Instead, he heads back to the Manor with Arm and Thar, wondering what the outcome of the election will be.
Thar Monday August 2nd, 2010 2:38:11 PM
Just checking in...
Not a weak week. / DM Buzz Monday August 2nd, 2010 10:49:02 PM
The week goes by fast for the group as the many activities of the city really come out in the faces of the people the group has come to know. The auction that they helped gather items for continues to receive goods and Sampson, with his own funds, had to buy a storage locker for all the items, because he could no longer get to his kegs, with all the goods he housed in cellar. Father Guud is pleased to tears when he hears that almost twenty thousand gold pieces in donations has been raised, up until the day of the election. Now, he has the immense job of preparing for the auctions results and finding the proper contractors to hire and make sure, they employ the citizens of The Shanty Quarter for their labor means.
The week is indeed well for everyone as the influence bestowed upon the heros seem to help your stature. The Mithril Order has been invited to the home of the Witherspoons for a private dinner. Edmund would know right away that the very noble family has invited them to their house in this manner to gauge the guests manners, speech and in every way judge them to see in they would be proper guests if invited to a party. This is a great opportunity for someone that enjoys the upper classes of life and... even if one isn't concerned to be associated with such snobs, the dinner would be assuredly be fantastic and the booze free. The Witherspoons are in all ways, very polite and friendly. Who does Edmund know, to take as a guest to such a fine event?
Oh the life of a bard at parties and other events can be heavy as everyone wants to be entertained. So it is when Armathen and Marie are alone together, one has some peace from the paparazzi and the adoring fans. She informs him, early in the week, as they lay between fine linen sheets, that she will be leaving four days before the election. The road calls yet again and a rambling rover knows the summons well, as these types of people can not let the dust around their feet, rest long. That night is long for the two as if they are two ships on a long voyage, who might some day pass on their journey's once again. If she hears of Arm being able to take a guest to the noble party the Mithril Order was invited to, she hops up and down, squealing, while clapping her hands together. She makes it clear, she will need a new dress!
Many changes has effected the life of the group, but none more then the cleric Thar, who seems to have lost his love to a recent family emergency. Some would call it funny, how life rips from one a piece of them selves and there are some things, not even a divine spell can heal. Yet, the Jericko wishes for us all to be whole and in time, one discovers that what was thought of as a rip, was actually a pruning of one life and course through it. Ones life can become better knowing someone and moving on. Myene Shimmerdance is an attractive professor at the Mages Guild. Her strong elven features in no way suggest one of her parents would be anything other then an elf themselves. She has shown to Thar to be a lovely and wise individual, as she gets over being star struck in the priests presence. A very proper guest to take the to the Witherspoons dinner party.
ooc: We can blow through a quick week and head up into the election, but if there is anything you would like for your characters to do, please tell us the story and I will respond as needed, with your tale.
Arm[HP 44/44 AC 24] Tuesday August 3rd, 2010 7:29:03 AM
Arm inwardly shakes his head at Marie's news...yet another one lost to the rest of the Wold. He seriously begins to ponder how much longer HE shall stay in the city, as it seems to have increasing amounts of bad memories for him, and he is getting restless as well. Making the best of it, he smiles warmly at Marie and agrees to buy her whatever dress her heart desires, thinking he should get some new clothing for the party as well.
Thar Tuesday August 3rd, 2010 2:47:35 PM
Thar is pleased at the invite to the Witherspoons, and is looking forward to meeting this influential family. The quiet week and successful fundraising cheers him up too, and helps him begin to heal from the emotional departure of his Ruby. His heart was broken, but he knows that this will help him grow stronger. Or as his father used to say, "The best way to get over a girl is to find another one..."
He's intrigued by Myene and decides to start courting her. After all, his luck should run better with a trustworthy elf than those finicky human females. It sounds like she is well thought of by others in the community, and would be an optimal companion. Over the few days before the dinner, he finds every excuse he can to go by her office at the guild or her classroom. When the day gets close for the party, he brings her very expensive flowers and politely asks her to be his dinner date. "I'd be honored if you would accompany me to the Witherspoon's and there's no one I'd rather have by my side at their table. Would you please be my date tomorrow night?"
He also uses some of his wealth to find a tailored outfit for the dinner, and asks his friends for help in finding just the right outfit to wear to a fancy dinner.
He also spends the week sharing his excitement with Arm and Ed. To Arm, says, "I'm glad you've found someone important too my friend. Maybe this is just what you and I need.... Now of course we have to find someone special for Edmund.... Hmmm.... What kind of woman would be a good fit for him...?"
Thar Wednesday August 4th, 2010 10:25:16 AM
Buzz - After yesterday's emails, it sounds like I'm the only one left.... Is it time to put the MO to bed and make a new forum for our new adventure?
Not a weak week. / DM Buzz Wednesday August 4th, 2010 2:15:56 PM
I'm beginning to think so my friend. I will talk with Jerry about it when I have time today. Take a vacation for the rest of this week.
:)
The End / DM Buzz Saturday August 14th, 2010 1:36:02 AM
The carriage carries their guests up to two, large wooden gates, bound with steel reinforcements of Master quality, ornate in the finest of detail. Four guards greet the coach and will take the invitations everyone would have at their disposal. A young looking woman in fine robes inspects each carefully then nods the gates open and waves with a smile to those entering.
Large oak trees rising a hundred feet into the night sky line the long drive way leading up into a well guarded parking area. A fountain operates in the center of the round about. It stands twenty feet tall and is a statue of a man, kneeling down to get a drink of the water that swirls around the basin, overflowing in a very even patterns down five feet to a second basin. Small jets around the rim of the second basin spurts a solid stream of water onto the third and final basin, it's reservoir. The brick which make up the drive ways are patterned nicely to resemble an monarch style cut on a precious stone.
The carriage stops and the doors are opened by young men dressed well and groomed as would be proper. The scene of their home is elegant to the extreme. It would be hard to tell looking up at the massive complex, which resembles both a fortress and a mansion. Many light spells illuminate the area, leaving no place for a shadow to exist. The guards are all dressed tuxedo's and hats, but they also have their face covered by a white cloth, with just their eyes showing. Fifteen men or what are taken as men can be seen to be in the vicinity of the coach, to ensure the groups and their guests, safety.
Walking up a very wide set of stairs to the main entrance allows everyone time to take in the potted plants that lead up to the foyer, finally to two magnificently decorated doors, wide open. Standing there is a butler with a tray of drinks, waiting for the guests. The inside is palatial as many works of art line the walls and sit meticulously in alcoves. Chandeliers line the main hall where it is said, King Claudia regularly attended balls put on by the father of Miss Witherspoon, who's family owns the estate and wealth of the family. Mr. Witherspoon is not at all broke however. He runs the military for Plateau City and the surrounding area and knows a thing or two about getting what he wants, even if it is a beautiful woman way out of his social standards.
The dining room has a four man orchestra playing very nice music while everyone gets to know each other better. It is good to know that these people are some what down to earth and seem to take an interest in the plights of others. The General does like to hear himself talk some times and will bring in the relevance of the need for law in most conversations, but, it is the hostess that is almost unnerving in her observations of her guests. Without being rude or boorish, she gauges everyone and even sometimes, that same gaze rests on her husband.
Then, the evening is complete and the night belongs to the group. The generosity of the couple leaves everyone full of food and beverage. Another night in Plateau City.
The election comes and in the end, the thought of a single leader is shut down and Caal will continue to lead the city on a path of a council, continuing it's current government without interruption.
Many opportunities are presented to the Mithril Order and there comes a time, when it is realized, their ways must part. For awhile, Edmund stay in the city, taking on crucial jobs for the mages guild. His expertise in many fields saves the lives of those naive in the ways of evocation, but after awhile, he too will move forward to many things. Arm and Marie leave a note one morning. She is leaving the traveling troup and he is going on a wild fling with her. Where their journeys take them will be a wonderful love story that may some day be told.
Now as for Thar. When the election is over, Sturtevant approaches the cleric and thanks him for all he has done for the city. "It is people like you that help create magic in this world. Although your soul is not pure, you do your best for good and now that I am out of work, I have a business proposition for you."
It is deep into the night when you are to meet the mayor emeritus. Quite a ways from town, it is quite an odd place, a wide open field surrounded by hills. A perfect place for an ambush really. It is then a gargantuan creature comes flying in low across the horizon suddenly lands in the field. It is of a large reptilian form and in the light of the twin moons, it is of a metallic color. It's form shifts to that of Sturtevant as he approaches. It is then that Thar gets to know the Gold Dragon that almost became king of the greatest kingdom in the Wold.
Over time, they become good friends. With the need to keep Sturtevant secret, the duo are capable of making money, helping the poor and getting experience all in the name good. Myene is an ever growing part of the clerics life. She is kind to others and considerate to even her pupils. The nice thing about elves would be, they are the best race suited to long distance relation ships. Five or ten years isn't that big a deal to a couple of long lived elves.
The Shanty will now have a connection to the sewers and will be a better place to live at least to some degree. Guards patrol the area unwillingly as, was predicted by some, with prosperity came an increase in crime, but now, mal nutrition is almost extinct in the metropolis.
After a couple of years, Stutevant wants to have a long talk with Thar "I have good news and bad news my friend. A major eruption of chaos is occurring and it is now that I must assume a new form and identity to help out a place that needs help. Now, if you have an itch to adventure, I will take you with me and we can part ways there. You can find a flock of hero's to attach yourself to and fight the good fight against evil, if you are so interested. I am leaving in two days. Say good bye to Myene and meet me in the field where I first showed my true self. If you do not show by dark, I will take that to mean, you are staying here to settle down"
The dragon in human form shakes the elf clerics hand and says, "It has been an honor to be your friend."
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