Total War: Broken City

[Zemalac]

http://i.imgur.com/uau7g.png

They found her body just after third bell, when she failed to appear for the second round of grievance hearings. At first they assumed that the sorceress was sleeping, or meditating, and that disturbing her rest would bring down terrible wrath, but one of the more venturesome servants noticed that the blood staining her seat was not coming from a sacrifice she had made but rather from the small hole drilled neatly into her head. That servant died when he tried to examine the wound, frothing and drooling on the floor. Some said it was because of some lingering enchantment that had not yet failed with her death, but other, darker rumors whispered of the assassins of the Craftsmen's Guild in far-off Lomar, and spoke of resurrection darts and five-step poison in grim and hushed tones. No one knew who had done it, and thanks to the servant's death--either by the poison lingering on a killing arrow or by lingering ward--no one wanted to try their hand at figuring out how.

Welcome to Sav Altulas, once the capitol city of great and fabled Talidor, one of the three kingdoms that made up the Shattered Lands before the Zancharian Empire came and went, more than a thousand years ago. The city has gone through some rough stages since then, lying in ruin for a time before being found and rebuilt into the pit of refugees and decadent, bandit-bred nobility that it is today. It was, until very recently, ruled by Burgravet Desoui, a sorceress that everyone thought was immortal. They were, very recently, proven wrong. Desoui is dead, murdered by gods alone know who, and the power-hungry people of this ancient city are showing their true colors once again. For the first time in a hundred years, the natural-born conspirators of Sav Altulas are not held in check by the fear of magical wrath, and when the dust settles only one will rise above the nest of vipers to claim the now-empty throne.


________________________________

Turn 1 Begins

Events:
Death of the Sorceress.

Rumors:
The warlord Agia Lonecutter has posted a bounty of [2 WEL] for the head of Skeeve Redeye, infamous serial killer currently at large in the Shattered Lands, for what he did to her father and brothers.

The Illarym Empire has posted a bounty of [4 WEL] for the head of Skeeve Redeye, also known as the Dollmaker, the Poisoner and the Bloody Eye, for the crimes of murder, arson, black magic and criminal depravity.

Rumors persist of revolution in the Imperial South; they say that the Lead Prophet has been seen once again, stirring the people into a frenzy with his words.

Open war has broken out between the warlords Cord Witchbrother and Maximilian Greeves.

It is said that the wizard Logos the Dreamer has joined the court of the warlord Sakel-Doge.

Two men who disappeared in the Frostcap neighborhood several weeks ago were found in Old Jack's Run with all of the blood drained out of them and splashed about the alleyway they were discovered in.

Various gangs, cults and secret societies are stirring, eager to seize what they can from the chaos that they believe will follow the death of Burgravet Desoui.


________________________________

A new day dawns over the old city. Wake up, my friends; there is much to do.

[Thelonius]

Bloodhaven

Painted Court

''Ah, Doctor'' Ella smiled at the figure, bundled in a large white scarf, with several ice pieces stuck on it, that were already melting. ''Do you wish to get warm in a bath?'' She walked seductively to him and for a moment Vassari was tempted. It would be nice to lose himself in the arms of pretty girl right now.

''I’m afraid I’m here on business Ella. I would like to see Madam Red.'' He finished removing the scarf from his head, revealing tight bandages beneath, with only two small slits, through which his grey eyes were peering. There was a hint of nervousness in them, which disappeared so fast, that Ella couldn’t have spotted it. Then again, the girls often earned extra income, by passing information they spied from their clients. And Madam’s girls were smarter, then your average ladies of the night.

The Red Court was one of the high-end bordellos in the Painted Court, catering to the interests of the nobles and wealthy from the Heaven’s Gate and Sky districts, who wished to go slumming, without touching too much dirt. Here, the girls worked to attract continued attention of their clients and thus were more valuable. The fate of those who worked in the less prestigious establishments was quite different. Doctor observed the wrecks, those left, begging and dying on the streets daily.

Vassari walked to the Madam’s cabinet, passing two stern bodyguards and quickly exchanged pleasantries with her, complimenting the exquisite nail polish she used that day. Datails. Women liked when you noticed the fine touches.

''I realize, that your girls need to stay clean, if you wish to maintain your clientele without incidents.'' He begun, taking a sip of the offered wine.
Madam Red sighed solemnly: ''The noblemen. It’s always the girl’s fault, never theirs. And then they make trouble and my girl can’t work anymore.''
''And then there is issue with the drugs.'' Vassari continued. The Madam simply nodded. ''I was thinking we could come to an arrangement. My hospital and my skills can help you, while your girls.''

''You want coin?'' she inquired. ''Payments yes, and I’m willing to pay myself for referrals.'' answered Vassari.
''If you wish to cater to noblemen, you need to move your shop. And bar the riff raff you let get treated now. You can’t be making any money off them. That’s bad business sense.''
''I’m driven by compassion and inability to deny my skills to the suffering.'' Vassari shrugged.
''Then you can offer my poor, little things, a discount? I can barely pay my protection money and if this poor old woman is out of business, they’ll all be on the streets.'' Madam murmured.
Vassari laughed: ''I’m certain you are quite far from being destitute. Not with that jewel I spy, woven in your hair.''

They haggled. Vassari trying to penetrate the mask of Madam's pleasant face and failing at that. Some people's faces didn't need to be covered to hide them. Money was of interest to him, but also the information, he could acquire, if mistress of Red Court was positively inclined to his inquiries.

[Eldan]

The Black Brotherhood

To Doctor Vassari (Esp Def 6)


A runner comes up to the Bloodhaven hospital one day bearing a message. It's a young boy, maybe eight, in clothes often-mended but essentially clean, clutching a piece of parchment to his chest. He will, he says, only show it to the Doctor personally.


GM only:
I want to stretch my feelers into the Harrowing fields, see what kind of organisation can be found there. I might be interested in organising a prison riot/outbreak.
Second, I want to look into Doctor Vassari. Everyone has some skeletons to hide. I want to know what his are.

[Grimsage Matt]

Technist Guild

So, she was dead? Time to get back to work then!

[Thelonius]

A messenger from Black Brotherhood

''Doctor is busy with the patient’’, a young and rather pretty girl, wearing clean, white dress informed the messenger boy. ''I’ll bring you a mug of warm tea, while you wait for him.''

''That old goat should be dead!'' a shout came from the closed door behind her. ''I should inherit the estate, I’ve already started spending the money. I owe people!'' A middle aged man, wearing an expensive suit, clearly designed in youthful fashion, was forcibly dragged by two man, in livery of noble house Wrelf.

''Thank you doctor. I shall see, that you are properly rewarded for your skill. And not taking the bribe to butcher me on the operating table'' a weak, rasping voice, barely carried into the room. ''And perhaps recommend you to several of my. Aaahhh. Old friends.''

The door closed, cutting off the doctor’s reply. In fifteen minutes he walked out of the room, focusing his attention on the boy. ''I was told you had some message to pass on to me?''

A letter from the desk of Alfred Wrelf, To Esoteric Society of Gentlemen Explorers [6]

Ser Pontiss,

You may recall our acquaintanceship from the common interest in stamps used in the correspondence across the world. I recall you complaining about worsening eyesight and back pains, from your constant work on the old manuscripts. I wanted to recommend to you the Bloodhaven Hospital and its Doctor Morden Vassari. He has saved my life just recently and prescribed me a drug, that did wonders to relieve my chronic pains. I feel that his expertise can be of use to you and your friends as well.

Sincerely Yours,
Alfred Wrelf

[Eldan]

Blackfst Brotherhood to the Doctor [Def Esp 6]

The boy smiles and crumbles the scroll he holds in his hand, tossing it away.
"I do. I speak for the Index*."
He clears his throat, then intones:
"Greetings Doctor! It seems to me that you are a true curiousity in this city: a man with good intentions. As such a rare animal, of course, you have to be protected, as this city is full of predators.
We could offer you such protection. It is not our modus operandi, normally, to demand payment. We won't. We will simply offer our services, keeping your enemies from your doors, if you need us to. If you were so inclined, you may help us in return, in whatever way you can, but we understand if you are too occupied to do so. If you want our help, simply say so to the messenger, he will pass it along."

*The Index is one of the Black Hand, the five more-or-less leaders of the Anarchist. He's their scholar.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

Gleamers - Wallen Manor.

Lord Wallen had finished his breakfast, and asked his butler who were going to attend his audience of the day.

"Milord, you have Lord Hoster first. He claims Lady Hapsburg is sending spies to his manor, and claims he needs guards to prevent it"

"The Lady seeks only to marry him. My spies already told me. she is good looking, and young. I can't believe he is this blind." Lord Wallen thought.

"Good, I'll discuss it with him in private."

"There is no way I'm giving this clown more guards. He has enough guards. I'll tell him of the Lady's intentions and watch him jump on his feet of joy"


After the audience (Which was very jumpy indeed), he wrote some letters and read some reports.

Def. Esp 4

To Bloodhaven
Greetings, Doctor Vassari. I have been observing your methods, and I'm interested in them.

Could I hire you to attend my men? I would gladly pay a good price; if the honorable gentlemen and ladies of my neighbourhood see you coming, you will probably gain a lot of work. And they can pay.

In other matters, I'd be willing to build a hall for your hospital to help the city's less fortunate souls.

I hope this is the beggining of a lasting friendship.

Signed, Lord Henry Wallen III.


To Esoteric Society of Gentleman Explorers
Milords; I send you this message as a friend.
We are currently the biggest houses in Sky.

While I wish to be in good terms with you, I believe we should talk for a long time before deciding for which way to coexist.

In the meantime, I believe we should support each other to gain full control over Sky, and avoid the appearance of a third party that would further divide and weaken the Noble class.

I'm willing to extend control over Lodstrom (Which is the only way I can go); and I'd be fine with you taking the Risen Court or Dai [this turn]

[Nyrt]

"Ahh, Sebastian, the lake is truly beautiful at night. I can't imagine how I never realized this before."

"Indeed Sir."

"You see that island there? With the trees?"

"Yes Sir. It is magnificent, Sir." Sebastian looked around. All of the islands had trees.

"My father used to take me down to that island. Apparently, my great-great grandfather got stranded there once and had to wrestle a bear to survive."

"Amazing, Sir." Sebastian had heard this story before. The great-great grandfather in question had been attacked by a bear while signalling for help, and had killed the bear with his bare hands, so the story went. The bear pelt was used as a rug in the sitting room back at the house.

"I think I'll build a house there, Sebastian. One away from all the court intrigue."

"Good idea Sir."

"Not to live there, of course, but to spend some time away from Old Face."

"Of course, Sir." Sebastian looked out across the lake. It was beautiful, in a way. You could see all the lights of Old Face reflected in the water.

"I believe I shall retire early today, Sebastian. Who knows what might happen tomorrow."

"Indeed Sir, one can never know."

"I have some letters to write first, though. If you would be so kind as to pass them on for me."

"Of course, Sir."

A letter from the desk of Aberham Pontiss, To Alfred Wrelf [4]
Ser Wrelf,

What a pleasure it is to hear from you again. I do indeed recall our discussion of stamps and correspondence, and indeed, since we talked, I have discovered an incredibly rare ten-cent royal blue affixed to a letter sent to be by my mother ages ago! What a wonder that she came across it without realizing what it was. As you mentioned, however, my back has been hurting rather more of late; I believe I may have been too hard on it. I have been to several private practitioners, but none seem to have much effect. I must say, I've never considered the thought of going to a public hospital. I thank you for the suggestion, and look forward to the possibility of further correspondence.

Sincerely,
Aberham Pontiss

Bennet Founder, To House Wallen

Ser Wallen,

Indeed, I feel it is beneficial to the both of us to work together for now. I will be expanding my foothold in Risen Court; the cliffs along it have a wonderful view of the lake. We can leave Dai up for discussion for now.

Sincerely,
Bennet Founder

Aberham Pontiss, to Bloodhaven
Doctor Vassari,

I have the good recommendation of a friend saying that you are far more effective in your methods than many of the private practitioners in the city. As I am plagued with back pain and diminishing eyesight, I may pay a visit to you in the near future.

Sincerely,
Aberham Pontiss

[Imperial Psycho]

"Beautiful night, don't you agree, Alden?" Spoke the Wren.

Alden looked up from his work, seeing the Wren sitting, face covered by a dark hood, watching the world outside through the window. He peered out into the black city. "Yes, sir." Alden said, waiting for the Wren to speak again. When the words came again, they were deep and sure. "And yet, as we speak, the city dances on the edge of chaos. The old order had it's weaknesses, but now it has fallen, the rats and foxes have emerged to tear the corpse apart. "

Alden looked puzzled. "But isn't this a good thing? Isn't it an opportunity for the order?" The Wren fixed his gaze on Alden, and Alden looked away. "An opportunity? This city will be engulfed in fire and blood. Death will be commonplace, as the various scavengers attempt to claim the corpse for themselves. It is a chance, yes. A chance to build something better in this shattered city. But it is also a time of death, and you cannot ask me to celebrate its coming."

"...Yes sir." Alden returned to his writing, and the Wren continued to stare out into the Broken City.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To Bennet Founder
I am glad to receive this response. I'm looking forwasd to have a beneficial relationship between each other.

To GM
What information do I have on Lodstrom and its inhabitants? How are they currently ruled, and how open would they be to join my group?

[HerbieRAI]

The church was almost at capacity today; with almost every believer in truth longing to hear with the mouth had to say about the mysterious death of the sorceress. The mouth had always said mixed things about her. She was too strong to offend, but had denounced the church as a cult many times over. This left The Mouth in a strange position when asked questions about the witch, since he could not say anything positive or negative.

Behind the scene, Harvey was talking with the Mouth, giving him some speaking advice about the current Situation.
The Great Neposh has returned. Only the God Slayer could have killed the foul witch. We need the rest of our brothers to see this, and now we can stop hiding in the shadows.
The Mouth had a sly grin across his face, and the familiar spark in his eye.
I think it is more than that my brother. Why would Neposh wait until now to slay her? He intended it to be a sign as well. You see, my friend, The God Slayer has been biding his time, waiting for the opportunity to allow his church to prosper. It is time for us to expand our congregation, and to show the city and the world what the faith of Neposh can do for the world.

At the he strode out into the front of the faithful. They were currently meeting in a cave, where they had been for a few years now. It was a dark and dank place, but it was easy to escape and hard to find, two things very useful for a group trying to hide from the world.
Listen, my brothers and sisters, I do not have much time today, as we have much to do. The rumors are true, the Blasphemer witch that has been subjugating this city for the last age has been slain. She was a very powerful sorceress, and has been alive for longer than any mortal should be. Many called her a god, and I would have to agree. She did have one weakness, she spat in the face of the Great Neposh. He had killed gods much stronger than her in his mortal years, killing her was nothing more than stomping on an ant. You may ask, why did he wait so long? Why didn't he free us from her shackles years ago? The answer is simple my friends, to allow the church to spread across the world.

You see my friends, her death was more than a retaliatory strike, it was a sign. The Great Neposh is telling us that now is the time for us to come out of the shadows and show the world his true power. It is no longer the time to sit and speak of his praises, it is time to spread the word of his greatness and bring true glory to this bleak land. Keep your ears open my brothers, soon we will be calling on every one of you to prove his faith and worthiness in front of the Great One and to bring glory to his following.


Defensive ESP 7

Messenger to The Mercantiles guild
A man who says he is a speaker for Neposh comes to your doorstep
"Would you be willing to donate some funds to the Church of Neposh. We can supply you with holy items and perhaps ways to transport goods throughout the city while evading tariffs.

Messenger to the Silversmiths guild
A man who says he is a speaker for Neposh comes to your doorstep
"Would you be willing to donate some funds to the Church of Neposh. We can supply you with holy items and perhaps ways to transport goods throughout the city while evading tariffs.

Messenger to the Exchange
A man who says he is a speaker for Neposh comes to your doorstep
"Would you be willing to donate some funds to the Church of Neposh. We can supply you with holy items and perhaps ways to transport goods throughout the city while evading tariffs.

[Thelonius]

Dr. Vassari & Black Fist Brotherhood [6]

''Your organization has a rather nasty reputation for violence and troublemaking. If I accept, your protection, many may think we are allied and can chose to strike against you through us.'' Vassari looked at the window at the street outside, filled with a group of visitors, awaiting their turn. ''I am not the most trusting person and an offer of aid with no strings attached sounds a little too good to be true. Are do you claim to be the rare breed of people, who seek to do some good in this corrupt city?''


Gleamers

''Your business here’’ A dour looking pair of guards have stopped Morden from proceeding further down the streets. He looked fairly respectable and was surprised to be stopped by a pair of guards. Wasn’t their job to harass the poor and unfortunate, that sometimes made their way to the rich quarters, to rummage through garbage and scraps. Then again, the neighbourhood around him looked like it was run like a war camp. An influence of Wallen’s fabled discipline? They were focused, efficient and practical. The same qualities that made the more decadent nobility of the city consider them an undesirable social company.

The guards have been satisfied by his explanation. It appears his bandages have alerted them. The people in Frostcap were already used to them, so Vassari forgot about the effect his hidden face sometimes provoked.

Letter to Lord Wallen [6]

''Bloodhaven would be quite prepared to treat your men, though I suspect you won’t be as kind to inform me in advance, when such treatments would be particularly necessary, so I may stock up on supplies. I must warn you, that whatever arrangement we should reach, I won’t refuse treatment to any patient, even if it were to be enemy of your eminence.''

''We would be very greatful to another wing to the hospital. Our capacity is relatively high, but it won’t take long for this chaotic times to produce such supply of those in need, that I imagine, that every room available would be priced in gold.''

Doctor Morden Vassari


A letter from the desk Alfred Wrelf to Aberham Pointiss [4]

''I certainly didn’t imply you’d need to go to the public hospital, as the place is unfortunately situated in a rather disreputable location. It was a petty, but ultimately fortunate gesture, by my snivelling nephew Pierce Wrelf, to place me from my dying bed in my ancestral home into the hospital. The imbecile has expected the indignity of dying in common hospital to sap me of my will and hasten my demise, while spiting me, for my wish is to die in the same bed, where my dear wife Lenore has passed away. Fortunately, unlike the usual charlatans of Triphage, I got into the hands of a competent physician, who brought me from the brink of death.''

''He has assured me, that he would be available for personal visits, and has shown himself to be within acceptable in his choice of attire, although I find his choice of suits rather unassuming and lacking in finer details, that would give it character. I would complement his choice of cultivating mystique about his hidden face, a mystery that has attracted favourable attention of a number of quite comely nurses, that tended to me while I recovered. In my years of youth, I’d probably try hiding my face and pretending a hideous wound to woo the fine ladies, but alas those days are behind me now.''

Yours Sincerely,
Lord Wrelf.


Letter from Doctor Vassari to Aberham Pointiss [4]

''I would welcome your eminence at my hospital and I assure you, we have proper accomodations to treat the patients of your calibre. If you find your schedule limited, I can arrange for a personal visit.''

''While my arts may not be able to address your eyesight problem, though I can try to select the best lenses to correct it, I’ve got both remedies for the back pains and a new approach to treating them, that involve little, but specific movements of the body to stretch the muscles, that are usually the main culprit of such afflictions.''

Dr. Morden Vassari

[ForzaFiori]

The Ram Revolution
Rot's Borough

Constantine Richter surveyed the plot of land in front of him. It was one of the best neighborhoods in Rot's Borough, though that wasn't saying much. He was here for a reason though, to finally mark to start of their rebellion. Unfortunately, that would mean a speach. He turned to the growing crowd, and began speaking. "The Sorceress is dead! The city will soon be thrown into chaos, and we will rise above it, triumphant! Here, on this ground, we will put our government! Not a government of oppression and rich nobles, but of, by, and for the people! The crowd cheers, most waving the red flags that had been circulating for as long as the rumors of the death of the sorceress.

Two hours later, Constantine was busy writing notes to the various leaders of similar rebellions located near the Borough. One of the many urchins of the neighborhood would deliver the messages to their recipient, and hardly be noticed by anyone of importance (D. ESP 7)

TO: Order of the Wren
We of the Ram Revolution have much in common with the Order of the Wren, including, I would hope, an aversion to losing. To insure that neither of us are forced to deal with such a horrid concept, I propose an alliance between our two factions. I would welcome a letter from your leaders offering a way to divide up Runner's City in a mutually beneficial way.
-Constantine Richter

TO: Technist Guild
It is well known that the best creations of all Sav Altulas come our of your guild, but that you are far from soldiers. My own followers, however, are not afraid to cut throats, yet have a decided lack of fancy equipment. I propose an alliance between the two of our groups, for mutual protection and benefit. If you and yours would be willing to supply things that may give us an edge in the coming civil war, me and mine would do all we can to insure the protection of the Technists as well as the Rams. I look forward to your reply.
-Constantine Richter

TO: United Alliance of Labor
I sense a kindred spirit to the Ram Revolution in the UAL. Our fight against our oppressors would not be served by fighting each other. In this vein, I would like to propose an alliance between the Ram Revolution and the UAL, for the mutual benefit of the poor and downtrodden.
-Constantine Richter

GM ONLY:

I would like to look into what/who is currently running Pisser's Kingdom and Pits, as well as (if possible), roughly how strong their militia is.

[Eldan]

Black Fist Brotherhood to the Doctor [6]

Communication is slow, as the runner has to memorize the message and vanish, only be replaced a few hours later with another.

"We are no more good or bad than other people, but we believe you might be.

What we seek, I suppose, is a selfish goal. We oppose much of the way modern civilization work. We think that loyalty should be personal and mutual. We believe that long hierarchies crush those standing in the lowest ranks. We believe in equality.

We make trouble, that much is true. We have killed people. We have destroyed buildings and reputations. We did it, because we had to, and we regret little of it. But this city has poverty, and oppression, and it needs to end.

There are never no strings attached in an offer. For you, the strings would be, as you said, that you would be seen as allied with us. That is a heavy price to pay for protection. And how would be profit? We would show our dedication to the welfare of the poor by helping you. That is how we profit, in the public eye, not our purses.

[Imperial Psycho]

Order of the Wren Morale: 5

To the Ram Revolution
Our causes are indeed similar, though not the same. For now, we will permit some co-operation.

The Order will be moving to take the Tragic Court, and skirt the edges of the Runner's City. Do not oppose us in this, and we shall have no problems.

The Wren.

[Eldan]

To GM:

If possible, I want to covertly send a few reliable people to the ram revolution. Not to spy on them, really. To make sure no one messes with them and their parliament. Take out enemy agents attacking them, if it becomes necessary. But without the revolution really noticing.

[Zemalac]

To Eldan

In answer to your notes:

First: The Harrowing Fields were formerly owned and operated by the sorceress' people, who are currently struggling to maintain control. Officials from Gatehouse Prison feel that with the demise of Desoui they should be in charge, as they supply most of the fighters for the arena, and a local group of merchants from Annosus is making a bid for it as well.

Second: Sending spies around and whatnot is really something that should be done during End of Turn. Getting information on places is fine, since all you really need to do for that is to buy a broadsheet or walk past the place listening to rumors, but actually moving around and doing counterintelligence stuff should be reserved for the EoT.


To Ragnar

Lodstrom is a pretty even mixture of old blood and New Coin nobility, families that have been in Sky for centuries mixing with ones who built their manor only a couple decades ago. At the moment, control is just about evenly split between House Matoff, which heads a coalition of ancient lines that don't like the intrusion of the New Coin families, and the Lodstrom High Society Club, which is a collection of New Coin nobility who gather for drinks and politicking every weekend. Of the two, Matoff regards House Wallen as a disgrace to the upper class, while the Society Club thinks that you are merely misguided, and perhaps the new generation will clean things up a bit.


To ForzaFiori

Pisser's Kingdom is currently run by the Street Men, who collect waste from the roads and byways of Sav Altulas, assemble it in their offal dumps and sell it as fertilizer to farmers and the like. They are being challenged by a Mafia-like gang known as the Knifehands, who are demanding protection money. Skirmishes have already been fought in the alleys of Pisser's Kingdom, and open fighting in the street is expected to break out any day now. The Street Men have a military strength of [++], while the Knifehands have a strength of [+++].

Pits is a more complicated matter. There are at least five known gangs claiming control over the neighborhood, none of which have anything near what they say they do. Collectively, their strength is [+++++ +], which would probably come to bear on any outside force seen as muscling in on territory that rightfully belongs to Pits kids, but infighting among the gangs could easily weaken that.

[Nyrt]

Aberham Pontiss, To Alfred Wrelf [4]

Ser Wrelf

Your good advice does you credit, Alfred. Already I have received a response from Doctor Vassari. If all goes well, perhaps I will finally be free from this damnable pain.

On the topic of those nurses, don't let your age stop you; sometimes age just makes things better- like with wine or cheese. Who knows, perhaps one of them would like a respectable seasoned gentleman like you or I.

Aberham Pointiss to Doctor Vassari[4]

I would be happy to come in personally to see you. I would like to see the facilities you have set up, and this treatment sounds particularly enticing. I assure you, if it works, money is not an object.

GM only
Hey, so I'm going to try to convince some of the people in noble families in Risen Court to join the society.

[League]

Militia of Order and Justice
Moral: 6

I have done well in bring the Just One’s peace, thought High Watchmen Kos as he patrolled the streets of Upperdeck. Men and women were shoping and haggling at the newly emerging shops without fear of being mugged on the way home while children played in the street. As Kos and his men walked by some even stopped to thanked and praised Kos for the excellent work the Militia had done.

A few hours later Kos and reached the end of his patrol and the highest street of Upperdeck. From there Kos surveyed the rest of Old Town. Lawless chaos filled with evil, the Militia will not restore order there easily. We need allies.

Technists Guild
The Militia of Order and Justice wishes to commission a particular machine. If you are interested, perhaps we can discuss this matter in private.

[Grimsage Matt]

Technists Guild
To the Rams
Sure, we can do that. At the moment, we were planing on exenting our factories before full scale production, but we'll see what we can find for you.
Respectfully,
Matt Rosen.

To the Millita of Law and order
Sure, what do you need?

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Church of Neposh
Transport is not something that we particularly need, as most customers come to our stores themselves to select their purchase. Holy relics, however, do seem of interest to us; especially ones of silver. We would ask some time to deliberate on how much we can spend before getting back to you, if possible.
To GM
1) How does reading others messages work in this game?
2) Is there anything in particular demand in the Jewellery and Luxuries market right now?

[Murska]

The Wardens (5 Morale)

Wardens to the Illarym Empire - Trade Ministry

The city of Sav Altulas has fallen into chaos, and we are forced to consolidate our own operation and cut back on protecting the trade routes, which are likely to lessen in usage anyway. In addition, the Warlords of Shattered Lands are taking the opportunity to harass us during our moment of weakness.

Any support you can offer for us financially or militarily would allow us to better protect your own interests within the region. We plan on moving fast to unify enough of the city to resume proper trade, but there are several other groups with conflicting views within the city.

Wardens to the Sausage Guild

We respect your work and unique skills and so wish to offer you this warning - we will be moving our forces inside the city, cutting back on the guarding of trade routes, for as long as the chaos lasts. We require security for our barracks, and will therefore we making sure that no minor gangs trouble our District. This will mean our soldiers will be patrolling near the border of your neighbourhood - be assured that we mean you no harm.

[Greystone]

The EBSA

The lights brightened in the Carvin Landscape room, named for the murals that covered the walls showing a landscape of Sav Altulas seven generations ago, painted by Joseph Carvin in an almost surreal realistic style- giving the impression that despite the rooms lack of windows, that they were overlooking the city rather than nestled deep with the Halls of Final Justice.

The most senior staff, with a scribe to take minutes, gathered and sat around the long oaken table. At the head of the table, grey-haired and stately, Chief of the EBSA Staff Dekan O'vail eyed each of his lieutenants as they took their seats. Directly to his left, Chief Legal Consul Chrine Blizzardmarch sat- his frost blue skin and deep blue hair standing out against his austere black robes of office. To his right, sat his Deputy Chief of Staff Kara Lythene, the polar opposite of the elf. Wearing a amused grin as well as a white button shirt, red vest, and black pants (showing a balance between seductive and professional which always slightly perturbed him). Across from his was Captain Franz Rargo, a dark skinned mountain of muscle and scar tissue fit inside the Greycloak uniform, a curved blade at his side and a Burgonet Helm on the table- solid and dependable as always. Finally, chatting quietly with the scribe was Anala Weaver, dark brown hair cut short around her ears, exuding the natural charisma that made her an excellent ambassador to the public of the city.

O'vail flipped open the cream folder in his hands and examined it before laying it on the table. Thin writing was revealed, interrupted by a large magically captured picture of the Sorceress, before he flipped the page, revealing a drawing of her corpse "This is accurate?"

Kara nods, tapping the picture "I was there when this was created, its accurate. The hag is legitimately dead"

Anala smiled "That's great news, isn't it?"

"I wouldn't be so sure" the elven consul warned "She passed without a government to remain, the city will probably fall into chaos"

O'vail nodded "I wouldn't be surprised, Captain are we ready for that?"

The military man coughed and straightened as he was called upon "I believe so. I've sent runners to all of our controlled elements, and have doubled the on watch officers patrolling the Halls of Final Justice"

"Excellent" the pale Deputy nodded "But that doesn't exactly deal with the political shift that is bound to happen"

"Well maybe we can get ahead of it" Anala suggests, leaning forwards and shuffling through a stack of papers in front of her "Should we put out a press briefing, let the people know that they will be taken care of?"

The old Chief of Staff glanced at her "Can you and your staff get a statement ready in" he checked his clicking wrist-clock, a gift from his wife "Thirty minutes? Any more and we'll have to wait till tomorrow"

"I can help" Blizzardmarch stood, and swept away towards the door "I shall immediately look up the pertinent legal measures that would give our claim validity"

Kara stood and cracked her neck "I have business to attend to out and around the city, are we good?"

Dekan rubbed his hand through his grey hair and nodded "I think that's all for now, get your people moving- or we could have a crisis on our hands that could snowball out of control"

He smiled at the affirmatives, and turned to leave the room. Raising his voice Dekan called for his aide "Yinda!" the slightly portly woman stepped to his side as he marched to his office "Do me a favor, and bring me the Saaros Documents, and a mug of something hot". As she scuttled away, he smiled and sat at his deck- ready to do a job that he loved out from under the heel of the immortal sorceress.

Press Statement- for all PCs, NPCs, and people of Sav Altulas
Given from a podium within the Halls of Final Justice, and then relayed in text form and crier form across the city. The transcript reads.

With the death of the Sorceress, times are changing in the great city of Sav Altulas. Whatever you may have thought of the previous administration, she had brought a measure of stability to the city. We strongly oppose returning to her ways again with another petty dictator, so the EBSA would like to start talks with the various factions of the city with legitimate claims to governorship to step forwards and send a representative to the Halls of Final Justice.

Chief Consul Blizzardmarch has let me know that we will conduct ourselves as set out by Bill 567- 2 of the city code.

We will immediately start talks and negotiations for a new government, and how to implement said new order. I will be happy to take questions through letter or personal meeting here at the Halls before the talks begin.

As a sidenote, polling will begin among the population to find what they would want in a new, better government.

- Anala Weaver, Press Secretary of the EBSA

Kara Lythene to Ram Revolution
Donning a black leather coat to protect her from the chill of the night, Kara arrives at the plot of land she knows is used by the people's revolution. Peeking around she looks for someone who knows what they are doing "Hello, Kara Lythene from the EBSA, I was wondering if any of the leadership is available to speak with"

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution
Rot's Borough
D. ESP - 7

TO: Order of the Wren -

That is fine. We will begin moving to the north and west of Runners City, but will leave you the southern half of our district.


TO: Technists Guild -

Feel free to get your workshops up to full capacity, as well as anything else you may need to do, before sending your resources out. I assure you that I plan to do the same. I am hoping that our alliance will last long enough that we can afford to take our time.


Constantine Richter to The EBSA (through Kara Lythene) -

Constantine comes around the corner to answer Kara. "I am Constantine Richter. Currently I find myself in command of the Ram Revolution. I must say, I expected this meeting to occur in the Halls of Final Justice, rather than in a rundown building in the Borough."

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Heladuit Court
Greetings. The Silversmith's Guild has noticed that we both offer services to similar clientele, you providing amazing garments and us intricate silver jewellery. We, therefore, think that perhaps we may cooperate for mutual prosperity. If we were to subtly promote each others goods, it may lead to additional profits for both of us. If we were, perhaps, to suggest to a customer who buys an ornate silver necklace that it would look sublime with one of your vests, and vice-versa, it would be good for both of us. What think you?

[Zemalac]

Illarym Trade Ministry to Wardens (ESP-D 5)

Commander Tarmin,

We will inform the border castles of your situation and have them extend their patrols to compensate. Unfortunately, due to the delicate situation in the south, we cannot offer you as much assistance as we would like, but we can allow you to requisition any equipment you might need--to a reasonable limit, of course.

I will also inform Chancellor Quille of your situation. Perhaps he may be able to assist you further.

Regards,
Jekath Moth, Imperial Minister for Trade


Imperial Chancery to Wardens [Private]

You're not entirely sure how the messenger got into Tarmin's office--no one let him in, certainly--but there he is nonetheless. He nods briskly and drops a package on the Commander's desk, leaving as quietly as he had come. Five minutes later, no one would remember his face.

Inside the parcel is a letter, and a poster.

Letter

Dear Sir,

We have been informed of the situation in Sav Altulas by Minister Moth. While we cannot offer substantitive assistance at this time, we would like to request that you keep an eye out for the man on the poster we have included. He tends to be attracted to places in chaos, where he can stir up anti-Imperial sentiments and try to raise an army. We believe that he is responsible for the current unrest in the south, and knowing his usual patterns he may try to flee north once we have crushed his latest rebellion. A city in the midst of civil war would be a place where he could very easily hide from us.

If he is discovered in the city, under no circumstances are you to speak with this man. In fact, it would be best if you would terminate anyone who has had any contact with him, just in case.

Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.

Chancellor Quille
Co-signed: Doctor Reymond


Poster

http://i.imgur.com/3PeEO.png



To ragingrage

1) To read someone else's messages, your Espionage must be higher than (not equal to) the lowest Defensive Espionage of the two factions exchanging messages.

2) Thanks to the efforts of the Heladuit Court, arachnid designs are popular, and a recent scarcity of emeralds has made green the must-have color for high society.

[Greystone]

The EBSA

Kara Lythene- The Ram Revolution
"Well I wanted to have a one on one with you before people start coming to see us" she gestures you off to the side, giving you a friendly smile.

"I'll level with you, looking at the past, tyranny and monarchy aren't helping anyone- we at the EBSA would prefer to work with a democratic government" she lowers her dark spectacles to get a better look at you "And from what we can tell, your movement is one of the best candidates for that. I was hoping you could fill me in on what exactly you wanted to occur with your little revolution, and then we can deal"

United Labor Unions- Kara Lythene
Your men report that a red-haired woman in a black leather coat has been asking around to see the Union Boss.

Bloodhaven Hospital- A letter to Dr. Vassari
The EBSA would like to deliver their appreciation to the service you and your doctors are supplying to the city. Due to your excellent medical practices, we would like to give you a position in the EBSA's upper staff, as our medical consultant. Our worry is that a sickness will break out without proper health protocols in place, and you have been chosen as the best medical professional in the city.

Militia of Order and Justice- Kara Lythene
Several of your men report Kara Lythene of the EBSA wishes to speak with the High Watchman.

House Wallen
Kara Lythene from the ESBA, also of the minor Lythene House, wishes for an audience with a representative from your house.

Technists Guild
Hello, the EBSA would like to ask for a member of your guild to become a direct consultant for our organization. In the coming months, chaos will reign, and we wish to be as prepared as possible. Interested?

ES of Gentlemen Explorers
We understand that you have... quite a bit of personal wealth. The EBSA will be combating the chaos the city will attempt to plunge itself into. We were wondering if you would be willing to become a financial backer of the ESBA, and in return we will attempt to assure that your agenda is heard.

The Wardens- Kara Lythene
Your guards report that Kara Lythene, Deputy Chief of Staff for the EBSA wishes to speak with the commander.

BookBinders Guild-GM
Those who control the flow of knowledge, control the city. The EBSA once was deeply invested with the presses of the city, but our control was withered during the Night of Scourged Chains. We would like to discuss a mutually beneficial deal.

Lodstrom High Society Club
We would like to send a representative, Kara Lythene, to discuss politics with your most influential members. Would you allow this?

Orn Totre
A runner is sent into the district, looking for a member of the secret police willing to receive a message.

Wreken and Hearthfeather Families
The EBSA wishes to send a representative, Kara Lythene, to meet with representatives from both sides of the conflict.

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith Guild

To the Church of Neposh
We wonder if you have any holy artifacts that contain precious emeralds within them. A designer has come upon an interesting idea, but none of our current emeralds in stock are of good enough quality.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To Bloodhaven
"My dear Doctor, I am happy to read your position on this matter.
I will not only accept that you treat my enemies in your hospital; I will ask actively fot it.

The offer for a new hospital wing is... Free of charge, except for the treatment of my servants (Or, gods forbid, myself, or my friends) who require it.

My servants, friends, and specially me are well taken care for, so we are mostly healthy.

I'm interested in the benefits your work will bring to this town. We need more people like you to improve this place and avoid the civil war that is menacing us every day.

Would [++++ Wealth this turn] and [+++ Wealth next turn] be enough to build it?

I will be glad to help in other endeavours if needed.

Sincerely, Lord Henry Wallen"

To EBSA
"I gladly agree to the audience. I was going to attend the audience in the Halls of Final Justice personally, but you are invited to come to my manor before if you need to discuss anything.

Lord Henry Wallen"

Lodstrom High Society Club
Henry Wallen knew some of the members of the club. Small time nobility, but the kind that tends to grow with time.
He had also known the old goats from House Matoff and his bullies. Big old Huoses, with little capacity to adapt or change. They weren't like the
Esoteric Society of Gentleman Explorers, either.
They were brutes, and like brutes they acted.

He had been a friend of one or two of the Lodstrom High Society Club, before time and family set them apart.

He decided to send a message to one of them: Count Eric Bassa.

"Hello, old friend. I realize you consider me to be a part of the "Old Guard". But I'm not my father. I would love to attend one of your meetings, or even hold such a meeting myself if possible.

The motive of that would be to join our fortunes, so to speak.

We are fighting for more than a crown here. We are fighting for our lives, and I believe you need me as much as I need you.

Lord Henry Wallen"


To Heladuit Court
My noble (Future) friends. I realize we have not talked about the important events that are about to transpire in this great town.

I have a simple proposal for you: I will support any claim you have towards Heavensgate, as long as you support any of my claims over Sky.

In the meantime, I would be willing to help you in what you needed.
Lord Henry Wallen.

[Greystone]

The EBSA

House Wallen- Kara Lythene
Kara Lythene arrives soon after you accept her letter, just after sundown. Her red hair is pulled back in a long ponytail, and she is wearing he classic red vest and black pants, as well as a pair of fashionable darkened spectacles.

She is quickly shown in, and she gives you a small bow "Lord Wallen, I am grateful you gave me this audience. I wanted to know your opinion of where the city's government should go now the sorceress is dead. "

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

Lord Henry Wallen - Kara Lythene
Lord Wallen was ready, as always. He wore a long, black robe, with no garments. He was very tall and skinny, and a bit pale.
His short blonde hair was in disarray, like always.

He saluted Kara politely, but only answered her question after they were seated down in his office, with a cup of tea for both.

"Mylady Lythene, that is a difficult question.
An older noblemen would answer that government should go to the person that had the most right to it, by tradition and lineage (Both of which can be highly arguable at this time and age).
I don't like my lineage too much, that is not a secret. You wouldn't like yours either if your father had thrown up in invauable art objets.
But I like and respect tradition, because it can bring security and happiness to people; as long as it doesn't create conflicts that have to be mended with blood.

Some commoners may tell you to destroy all nobility, and as you can imagine I deeply resent that.
I understand where that comes from, but I don't believe in governments that can destroy complete parts of society simply because they don't like such parts.

Others may tell you that we need to find a balance that allows commoners to prosper and grow, and that brings new life and change to nobility.
That new balance could include democratic elements, but would have to include some place for the nobles (Specially very honorable and harmless places where we can put the stupidest of my social class to make them feel important and keep them out of the way).

But, in the end it all comes down to what you want to do. I'm just a lord sitting in his castle. You can move the whole city if you mean to.

I would be willing to rally the nobles behind your cause, depending on what your cause is.
And I will be honest about my cause: My cause is the City."

[WrathOfLife]

The Exchange - ESP-D 4

Public notice - For all to read

The Exchange is willing to offer personalized loans, unique investment opportunities as joint investment opportunities. Looking for funding? Look no further.


Church of Neposh

We shall over look this attempt to evade the law. However next time a messenger suggests that we engage in criminal activity we will be forced to report him to the authorities.


Mercantile's Guild

Greetings, we of the Exchange would be very keen to enter into some basic trading and financial agreements. This is to ensure the regularity and stability of the financial market. Would you be interested in hearing out our terms for cooperation?


GM

Felix Urd makes his way to Dovel to discuss various financial possibilities. Among these, perhaps most importantly is tackling the current Free Rider problem they are suffering. Felix will explain that the Exchange can hire on all of the Dovels guards, take over maintenance of their roads, their services, etc, and instead the Dovel population simply pays the Exchange a small percentage of their yearly income. Every resident of Dovel will have a say in how the excess is spent, in order to further improve the wonderful district of Dovel.

Jess Furs makes his way to Embassy Row, to discover who the current power players are and uncover the true as to this Merdallan knight. He will also attempt to find areas the Exchange can influence.

[Greystone]

Kara Lythene-Lord Henry Wallen
The woman takes a seat and waits quietly as you make your point, occasionally nodding her head at appropriate times, but overall keeping silent and very, very still. Her eyes, hidden by the darkened spectacles, could still be felt watching you as she listened, before you finished.

"I am happy to hear that. We of the EBSA believe that a democratic election and government is for the best of the city. I believe that most of the people have had enough of the petty tyrant controlling the city and through extension- their lives"

She leans forwards, and carefully removes her spectacles, revealing startlingly blue eyes as she smiles "Currently we are considering backing the Ram Revolution, but we wish to direct the course of the... formation of the government into something functional, legitimate, and orderly. Of course this means the backing of at least some of the cities nobility. What we are considering is two chambers of people. We are" she pauses and rolls her eyes "Currently in disagreement over some of the details of other power bases, but the EBSA top staff has agreed that one house elected by the people for legislating and a chamber of the nobility for overview. The exact nature of the power structure is not set in stone, and won't be until the meeting"

She leans back "Is this, perhaps, something you would support?"

[NM020110]

The Library
Espionage Defense: 4

The wizards of the dead campus were never much for serving others. Strange that they should be doing so now.

They served because of one thing, and one thing only: fear.

Whenever one stepped out of line, they were faced with death. When one protested, they were chastised, and killed if the protests continued. Corpses have become a regular export of the Dead Campus.

To: The Yellow Court

I am declaring my dominion over the Northside Black Neighborhood. As a part of this, I am making the following offer:

Serve under me and support my bid for the city, or be crushed trying to face me in magical combat.


To: The Crimson Court

I am declaring my dominion over the Northside Black Neighborhood. As a part of this, I am making the following offer:

Serve under me and support my bid for the city, or be crushed trying to face me in magical combat.


To: The Blacksbrace Gang

I am seeking dominion over the Blacksage district. I am willing to engage and destroy Silas Mok for you as a part of this.

In exchange, I would ask that you rule this neighborhood under me.

[oblivion6]

mercantiles guild
morale:3

to the EBSA
when you have the new goverment set up, we are prepared to step up and take charge of the cities trade. our contacts are already far-ranging so we could serve well

to the church of neposh
i suppose i can probably donate some funds to your church. in exchange for some holy relics and a way to move goods throughout the city

OOC: what are these holy items exactly?

to the exchange
yes i will hear you out. and just out of curiousity, how extensive is your intelligence network? i may have a joint project in mind

to the silversmiths
i hear you are some of the best makers of fine jewelry around. would you be willing to let me distribute your goods? with my contacts i can spread word of you and your goods far. we can of course share the profits

[Thelonius]

To Blackfist Brotherhood [6]

Vassari considered his answer, before giving the boy a message: ‘’I will trust you. The whole mess in the Shattered Lands is because everybody wants to be ruling on the top, instead of working with what was given to them.’’


Bloodhaven

Vassari’s assistant Petyr scurried around the hospital in a perpetual state of hushed yelling. The doctor reprimanded him for disturbing the peace of the patients, but clearly you need to shout the ears off the people for them to do their jobs. There was a chance nobs were going to visit and those sorts could get offended over a fly on a curtains. Nothing said about some blue stuff spilled in the hallways to operations room, that nobody thought was his responsibility to clean. He was going to tear the ears off the cleaning staff. Had to keep stuff clean, cause doctor said it was good for patients. Had to keep stuff clean for nobs – Petyr didn’t like them, but they provided a lot of coin, the hospital was run on. He finally spotted the boy responsible for mopping floors, chatting one of the nurses. Well, he couldn’t shout, but he could humiliate the little snot in front of his girl. You could always find enjoyment in little things and the job didn’t look so bad no more.

Piggy-Piggy Snout Tavern

Doctor Vassari was relaxing near the fire, eating a goulash. It was hard to do it without staining the bandages and at home he usually didn’t bother. But it wouldn’t do to appear unkempt now. He realized that his position of safety in the neighbourhood hinged mainly on his reputation. The city was growing chaotic and he had to appear strong and unconcerned.
Several men at the table next to him were reading a pamphlet. Vassari’s eyesight was good and he read it, despite the dim lighting. EBSA was calling for a general meeting. He imagined the chaos and shouting that would occur, if half of the ‘’city lord wannabes’’ would decide to attend.

He pulled out the letter bearing EBSA official seal on it, already broken and quickly re-read it. Food for thought.

Bloodhaven Hospital, Dr. Vassari’s Cabinet

''The costs for materials are going to soar. I wouldn’t be surprised if local toughs would start to collect tolls for goods and raise protection money on craftsmen. Plus merchants always work in premium, for operating in high risk environment.'' Francesca commented, looking over the plans, spread on her table.

''Which the city will soon become.’’ Vassari replied. ''What are you estimates for the project?''

''You have to give me a little more time. And it will depend on the price, Orson charges for his shack.''

To GM Only

+++++ ++ t. Wealth: would they allow to construct an additional hospital wing?

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Mercantiles Guild
We would very much appreciate that. We also have a proposal for you, if you would listen to it. As you know, Guild's row is right now a sham, a farce. Would you be interested in cooperating to return to it its original splendor, a place where different guilds can meet and discuss issues?

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

Kara Lythene-Lord Henry Wallen
Lord Henry reflected deeply about Kara's words.

"I would agree."

"But I am not the issue" he thought.

"You should watch your back if you go to other of the big houses with this idea. One or two of the BigOlds wouldn't let you live long after hearing that.

I'm trying to join the smaller houses under a group protected by my banners, to be able to counterwight the old houses.
Any support you can give me in that would be apretiated.

What is your vission on the executive branch? A Prime Minister, a King or both?

Thorny issue, that is. I would choose both, were I at your place. The King would have veto power over some things, and maybe a private army. The PM would have more power in short-term decissions.

I tell you this because if you choose a king and not a PM, you will lose the support of the mob. If you put a PM and not a king, then the nobles are out.

And, as dumb as many of the older houses may look when they divide and fight their little wars, that would cause them to close their ranks and choose a leader.
Their private guards are insignificant individually, but a formidable force together.

Maybe the Ram or some others would win at the end, but it would be a bloodbath."

[Murska]

The Wardens

To Illarym Trade Ministry

We most pressingly require ways to combat mages and their ilk - either equipment or specialists.

To Gatekeeper's Guard

The Wardens intend to pacify Spicer's Circle. To this end, we are willing to offer you military support to secure Gateway Milanus if you, in turn, offer your support for our task.

To Guild's Watch Association

The Wardens are taking control of Guild's Hand. If you wish to join us, we will train you into a proper guard and give you food and board. If you wish to disband and return to your homes, we will not stop you. If you wish to fight - our soldiers returning from the Shattered Lands do need a vacation from bashing in Warlord skulls.

[Greystone]

Kara Lythene- Lord Henry Wallen
The pale woman nods slowly "My thinking was similar, I was only so candid due to your... apparent political leanings. For the executive branch, that will have to come up during the talks. The biggest problem with the King that I foresee is the heriditary aspect of his role. "

She sighs "Perhaps if the 'king' was elected by the nobles, maybe term limits... I don't know, but we will have to bring THAT to a larger forum"

EDIT-

Mercantile Guild
We have no problem with this, but may require financial backing to support the new government contender. If you are willing to be part of that financial 'system', then I have no problem with that.

[Murska]

The Wardens - Kara Lythene (PM)

Four soldiers arrive quickly to the gates to escort her further in. Passing several barracks and a wide training yard, along with multitudes of soldiers performing various tasks, they enter a stone hall.

At the end of the hall, past rows of faded banners, sets of armour and weapons hanging from the walls, is a heavy wooden table behind which currently sits only Commander Nathaniel Tarmin himself.

He motions to one of the chairs on your side of the table. "Have a seat, and tell me - what are you here for?"

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

Kara Lythene- Lord Henry Wallen
"Well then, let's do just that, I'll be at the meeting. The idea of a king elected by nobility, and a limited time of reign interests me. But I'm already laughing picturing the older guys getting choked and spraying tea all over the room.

If you have nothing else to discuss, we could consider this meeting over. I'm glad we had this chance to talk, feel free to come visit any time.

Good luck; and be careful."

[ForzaFiori]

The Ram Revolution
Rot's Borough
D ESP - 7

Constantine Richter to EBSA (Private) -

"Our revolution wants what every revolution wants. We are fighting for the rights of the downtrodden and oppressed. Universal suffrage for all adults in the city, as well as citizenship, and some sort of declaration of universal rights, such as the right to speak, to assemble, to hold office, etc. An elected leader that presides over a group of representatives from every part of the city that makes the laws, and a court system separate from the main government that is charged with upholding a constitution that is yet to be written. As you could imagine, there are a few things that are going to have to happen before the writing of such a document, as we would not want to have input from only Runner's City. Of course, this is all very idealistic, and I am unsure of how much will actually pan out, but it is my hope that our view of this government will be the same as the one that we put into place.


TO the Street Men (NPC) -

Surely you have heard of our great struggle for democracy. The Revolution is interested into expanding into Pisser's Kingdom, and as you are the rightful protectors of this area, we offer to fully integrate you into our growing government. In order to facilitate this, we would be willing to lend a hand in ridding your streets of the gang known as the "Knifehands". In exchange for this, we would expect your acknowledgement of the Revolution as the true government of the city, your deference to us in matters outside of your neighborhood, and the integration of your military forces into ours. We recognize the need to keep a militia for defensive purposes however, and would allow you to keep half of your forces (+ Mil) in Pisser's kingdom as a militia force, while the other half would be integrated fully into our army under Krodok. We await your reply, and will send a treaty for your leaders to sign with our next message, assuming you are agreeable.

[Greystone]

Kara Lythene- Lord Henry Wallen
She stands and bows again before turning to go, shooting a look over her shoulder as she does "If you ever need anything, feel free to stop by Lord Wallen.

Kara Lythene- Wardens
The pale woman sits, and slowly pulls back her hair, making sure its all in her long ponytail before she peers at the man from behind her darkened spectacles "Commander Tarmin, as you know the city will soon plunge into chaos- and despite the EBSA's best efforts, I'm sure it will be sometime before we receive a functioning legitimate government. "

She leans forwards in her chair "I am here to discuss a agreement, to coordinate the cities various guard and military organizations so we can keep the violence in the streets down- and keep the civilian casualties down. "

EDIT

Kara Lythene- Constantine
The pale woman nods as you speak "All those things are elements we at the EBSA agree with. What you need is three branches of support to help the popular branch of your movement. You need money, political support, and as unfortunate as it sounds... the nobles. "

She sighs and cracks her neck before going on "Are you willing to compromise and discuss? For that is the only way we can contain the blood that will flow due to revolution"

[Murska]

The Wardens - Kara Lythene (PM)

"Oh?" The Commander smiles.

"A commendable goal. However, throughout our years of service to the city and our even longer years of fighting in the Shattered Lands, we've come to notice that an uneasy truce between unwilling partners to avoid short-term violence is, in the long term, worse for the populace than a short time of war followed by unification and peace. Not to mention the risks of letting the wrong people in control of various locations.

What sort of agreement are you thinking of?"

[IcemanJRC]

The United Alliance of Labor

Letter to the Technist's Guild

Lot's a' my guys over here on the docks say that you's boys and yer contraptions are crazy. But I tell them, I tell them "Boys! Crazy is just what you need to get by in these here crazy times!" So I'm looking to team up wit you's fellas and your flying machines and such. How's about it?
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak of the UAL


Letter to the Blackfist Brotherhood

Anarchist beware, the Union keeps the peace.
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak of the UAL


Letter to the Order of the Wren

You's fellas, you's got the right idea. You feed dem poor folks, just like us, and you rough up da' bad guys, just like us. SO I's was saying to my boy Rocco, I said, "Rocco" I says "these Wren guys gots the right idea. I think we should team up wit dem." So hows about it?
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak of the UAL


Letter to the Sausage Guild

Hey, you's just the types a' guys we's needs working with the United Alliance of Labor. You's the proud, upstanding guys that feed the city. Well, us union guys, we're big eaters because we do all the cities hard work, and cause we feed so many of dem poor folks from Runner's City. So I's was thinking, mayhaps we's could work out a deal?
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak of the UAL


Letter to the The Ram Revolution

I sees. So yous the ones who've been messing around in Rot's Borough. Okay, deal sheep boy, da' Union's on your side as long as we's got a place in your "New World Order" or whatever.
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak


The EBSA

Cat calls and whistles echo out as six very large and very tall men approach the coated woman. Some innocent enough, and many rather obscene, they are quickly silenced by the scrawny man in a poorly fitting but very impressive suit.
So den yous the one who's been looking for me? Whys a dame like you looking for a dock rat like myself?
The greasy haired man replies, his goons echoing their curiosity.
You looking for a job candyass?
His blatant disrespect would come as no surprise to anyone who's done their research, but if you're here for the Union Boss it's probably not for tea and highbrow conversation anyway.


Factories South

Rocco Scagnetti, the gigantic juggernaut of the UAL, steps lightly around the neighborhood. His eyes peeled for "suspicious violation of union policy" just like Mr. Dennis asked him to. Rocco was gonna keep a shard eye out for any of those bad guys that pretend to be good guys. Mr. Dennis told Rocco that only the UAL was a real good guy. The other unions were bad guys and Rocco was supposed to try and get rid of them. So here he was, Factories South, the place where all the bad guys lived.

[HerbieRAI]

The Church of Neposh

(ESPD 7)
To the Exchange

How is using our passage ways against the law? We never said anything of illicit goods. If you do not wish to use them we will not press the issue, but to say traveling under the city is somehow illegal is absurd.


To the EBSA (VIP level)

An old man with a distinct limp comes near your compound, he says he is from the Church of Neposh and wishes to speak with you about the forming of the new government.
(if allowed an audience)
I haven't heard much about your proposal of a new government, but the Church of Neposh also favors order to chaos and to leave the dictatorship a thing of the past. We may not see eye to eye on every issue, but we believe those differences can be worked out. If I may ask more toward your plan for a new government?


For GM

I'm assuming I can use one of my characters to create magic items, right? Also, The Mouth is going to be moving into Orn Totre to drum up support against the Secret Police. We will also be readying to send some military into the district.

[Greystone]

The EBSA

Kara Lythene- The Wardens
She chuckles, and removes her spectacles, revealing her startlingly blue eyes "We don't plan to make deals with the wrong people. What we are trying to do is establish a democratic government. What we need is more boots on the streets- protecting the populace and fighting the criminal gangs that are becoming violent. Our Greycloaks will start soon, and we are also attempting to converse with the Militia of Order and Justice."

Suddenly she leans back, apparently not a woman who likes to stay still "The agreement is simply among like-minded military and law enforcement factions who all want to help the city, and combining their forces against the chaos"

Kara Lythene- Union Boss
The pale red-headed woman merely chuckles at the cat calls, but ignores them overall until she reaches the Union Boss herself. She smiles at him, glancing around under her darkened spectacles. "Maybe, but is there a place that we can talk... in private?"

Church of Neposh
You are brought to Dekan O'vail, an older human male, and Chief of the EBSA staff. He looks up from behind his desk and nods "Our plan is to support a democratic government, and we are trying to find a way to avoid as many casualties as possible doing so. What do you think about a new government?

[Grimsage Matt]

To the UAL
We hope to bring technological empowerment to the common man. We'd be happy to work with you.

[Murska]

Wardens - Kara Lythene (PM)

"Well, that sounds all nice and well.

We here do not really care about the type of government in Sav Altulas, so long as the city is stable and in peace. Our concerns are towards defending it against outside threats. We intend to pacify Spicer's Circle both to make sure we can work unimpeded and also to secure a base for resources while there is no government to collect taxes and relay them to us. Once such a government emerges, we'll be fine with returning to our old position.

If our men are needed in troublespots elsewhere in the city, we'll think about it if called."

[Grimsage Matt]

To the Gear’s Chosen
To our brothers in artifice,
we of the technists guild have been following your actions, and we support them. If you are ever in need, you can call on us.

To the Artificers of little Veras
We are always intrested in new technological developments. Would any of you be adverse to reciving funding from us to help with your experiments?

[League]

Militia of Order and Justice
MORAL: 6


Technist's Guild
Would it be possible to invent a machine to quickly and easy make and distribute written material to a large amount of people?

The EBSA-Kara Lythene
A Militia guardsmen leads Kara into Kos's office, a decent sized room but made cramp by stacks of log, report, a weapon rack, a desk, and a large map of the Upperdecks and Old Town.

"What brings you down to Old Town?"

[Eldan]

Blackfist Brotherhood to the UAL [6]

I do so much admire a man who goes to the effort of writing his letters in an interesting accent. A man who is a member of an organisation who is so dedicated to peace and unity, like the UAL.
We are not opposed to peace, as a concept. But we are opposed to a peace that is enforced by thugs in badly tailored suits, and we would rather reserve the right to fight such a peace.

Signed: The Middle Finger

Passed along in the city everywhere and handed out secretly on street corners:
http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/1818/torch2t.jpg

[Imperial Psycho]

The Order of the Wren Morale 5

To UAL
We will stay out of your way, if you stay out of ours.

The Wren.

[IcemanJRC]

The United Alliance of Labor

Letter to the Order of the Wren

Aw, you don' like us? I suppose it can't be helped.
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak


Letter to the Blackfist Brotherhood

So you've seen the other letters then? I have under my employ a talented secretary, though if it suits you better I'll have her paraphrase for you. My men and I are not thugs, we are workers and artisans that help the poor and downtrodden. Also, I saw your little poster, you think we work in a Gilded Palace? You think we're rich? We've got almost nothing, yet we give and give, helping Runner's City and all it's inhabitants. I'd mind my tongue if you think to insult us, we simply wished to let you know that if you made trouble we'd be the ones to end it.
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak


Letter to the Technist's Guild

Yous guys are great. A real laugh riot. I's, personally, can't wait to start working which yous.
-CEO Dennis Kasparazak


The EBSA

Sure ting dollface. Take five, boys.
The thugs disperse and the boss takes a step forward,
Where we off to, neh? Yous got something important to say?

[Greystone]

EBSA

Kara Lythene- The Wardens
"If that's all you are willing to give we shall accept that. It is excellent that you will accept a legitimate government if one is created. Would you like to send a military consultant to the Halls of Final Justice? We may need a man or woman knowledgable in the ways of combat and tactics. "

Kara Lythene- Militia of Order and Justice
The red-haired woman takes her seat and adjusts her dark round spectacles " As you may know the EBSA has its head quarters in the Halls of Final Justice, so OldTown is of interest to us. Still... we have larger goals coming to you."

She leans forward "We wish to set up a government to reorder the chaos, but that will take time. During that time the city is going to fall to bloodshed and chaos very quickly. We have sent representatives to the Wardens as well to discuss a joint military, law enforcement measure to protect the people and keep order. Our Greycloaks will of course soon take to the streets, would you be interested in helping us?"

UAL
She takes him within sight of his men, but out of earshot, and leaned forwards "We are trying to establish a democratic government. Such a government would greatly help the people, the workers, give them power. We need labor support to get the ball rolling. Interested?"

[Murska]

The Wardens - Kara Lythene

"I'm wary of letting go of someone I would trust with such a matter in such turbulent times, especially when you have not named what you would need him for, and for how long he would stay.

Still, it could be arranged, if only to keep good relations to the other groups such as ours in the city, who value peace and stability."

[IcemanJRC]

The United Alliance of Labor

EBSA

Eh, new government, seems good. You gots our vote, that is, if what cher' saying is true. Is whatcher sayin true sugartits?
The boss slicks back his greasy hair and grins,
Cause if it is, you just gained a very powerful ally.

[TsukikoJ]

House Laurier

Notables of Swordsware [4]
"Hello. House Laurier is interested in working with other respectable citizens of Lomb Circle to make this place safe and profitable. Your folks don't seem to be too interested in any established system of governance, but I have an offer for you. I believe my family has the power to make the surrounding area a better place for all of its citizens, and if you will agree to allow us to establish governance over Swordsware we will pledge to protect your interests always and keep you and your markets safe. And the Lauriers could always use a group of skilled swordsmiths to keep our household guard well-equipped."

OOC: I am willing to negotiate with them in exchange for taking control of Swordsware. If they want more business, I can do that. If they want promise of protection, I can do that. If they want someone eliminated, I can do that. I'd be happy to employ a bunch of them to make me some fine swords as well.
Zemalac [GM/PM]
In regards to The Pond, is MIL the only stat? Or are they fighting over the neighborhood on a more economical level? This is actually a general question when dealing with NPC neutrals. If I wanted to use something like ESP against them, does each minor NPC have an ESPD rating that I would have to surpass or only the particularly notable ones?

How will subversion work? How will economic attacks work? Similar to 2126 at all? I figure an economic attack would be more effective against gaining control of a neighborhood dominated by merchants. While an espionage attack would achieve greater success in a fractured neighborhood such as The Pond.

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution
Rot's Borough

Constantine - Kara Lythene (Private):

"Compromise is, unfortunately, a part of politics. It would be unfair of us to fight against oppression only to enforce our beliefs on the rest of the city however. I believe I can convince the others in my movement of the necessity of such talks. However, there are some points that cannot be compromised on: Citizenship and equality, as well as basic democratic principle."

[ArcaneStomper]

The Sausage Guild

Deep beneath the streets of the city in a dimly lit cavern lay a massive quivering beast. It lay ungainly against the floor little more than a living wall of meat from which the Carvers of the Sausage Guild produced a steady stream of meat to feed the city of blood. Blood ran in thick torrents to drains on the floor which carried it vast reservoirs. But the members of the Sausage Guild were inured to the unsure footing and deftly maneuvered their cartloads along without stopping. To the side a trio of Shapers chanted in an unknown tongue and directed magic along the flanks of the great beast, regrowing the meat along a side the Carvers had depleted to the depth of the Guild guidelines.

And on the other side a single figure worked alone. Half again as tall as any of the figures in the cavern he made even the massive carvers look like children compared to his bulk. And he was enjoying himself. It wasn't often that Urso got the chance to actually do a bit of carving, caught up in guild paperwork as he often was. Cheerful and singing a song that no one dared tell him was not very good.

"Oh carving it up I am. Carving it up all day. Carving it all day long."

"Bloodhand"

"Something Something Meat! Meat! Meat!"

"Mr. Bloodhand"

"Oh, sometimes we carve up cows, and sometimes we carve up sheep."

"Mr. Bloodhand Sir!"

"But nothing is like a Behemoth, to Carve up for the MEAT!"

"URSO!"

Turning the giant figure glared at the figure who had dared interrupt him. The entire guild knew he wasn't to be disturbed during his down time. His glare molded into a sigh as he recognized who it was. Gern Smokebeard, a dwarf and Bloodhand's second in command. If he was interrupting it was probably important. "Alright, alright I heard you. Now what's so important."

"We just got word that the Sorceress is dead."

Urso frown, "So, we have nothing to do with her. The city doesn't stop eating just because one person's dead." He turns back towards the flank of the great beast.

"Sir but other people do. We've got letters from several of them."

Urso sighs and wipes his hands on his leather smock only serving to rub bloody smears in the already gory surface. "Alright let me have them." Plucking the letters out the dwarf's hands he stomps away to his office. He gingerly holds them to avoid as many blood stains as possible and heads to office. "More paperwork, bah." he grumbles as he heads away.

The Sausage Guild to the Wardens (DEF-E 5)
"The Spicer's Circle is where the majority of meat is sold and where we get our spices for the sausages. We are just as interested in securing the area as you. More perhaps as all you want is security, while we need to ensure the continued floor of goods through the area. However I do have a proposal if you are interested?

-Bloodhand

To the UAL (DEF-E 2)
We can supply bulk shipments. What quantities and payments did you wish to purchase?

-Bloodhand

[Murska]

The Wardens to Sausage Guild:

Well, let's hear your proposal.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Sausage Guild

To the Wardens (Def-E 5)
You want to secure your barracks by clamping down on the Spicer's Guild. We want to expand our vaults. Problem is there's a bunch of gangs running around the Spicer's Circle some of them with fancy magic and gadgets, and for us the vaults of the Gilded are already filled with gold. So we help each other out.

We've got some good mages who aren't above getting their hands dirty unlike a lot of wizards in this city. We'll help you deal with the Painted Elves running around and with the other gangs in the Spicer's Circle. Then you help us clear out the vaults of the Gilded, we don't even mind if you keep the gold.

OOC: I help you claim the Spicer's Circle District. You help me claim the Gilded District. Two fairly high mil factions shouldn't have much trouble if we act before the NPCs get their act together.

[Murska]

The Wardens to Sausage Guild:

Though we have enough strength to take Spicer's Circle by ourselves, an ally in the vicinity would be useful. This agreement sounds fine with me.

Our troops are right now moving to take control over Guild's Hand, White Market and Gateway Milanus. We should be able to take control of the other three neighbourhoods soon after these are pacified. I suggest that you take control of Dovel quickly, to improve your strategic position - I am certain the Exchange will also wish to expand, and if they block your way, taking Gilded might become a long and difficult battle.

I do not know of the situation in Dovel and what assistance you might need. As for our own concerns, we may need Espionage in the White Market to ascertain the demise of Wayt Embler.

[Grimsage Matt]

To the Millita of Order anf Justice
So, you want a automated printing press? We can do that, just give us some time.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To GM only
I intend to try to annex the noble society I sent a message to last time.

Also; I know we have basic D&D magic. Could you PM me how powerful my magic is?
On a side note; could I fashion a low-leveled spell called "100 fliers"?

I intend to make publicity magical.

[League]

Militia of Order and Justice
Moral 6

Technist's Guild
Excellent, when can we expect? The Militia has limited coin, but we can pay in many other ways including protection and giving you the people's respect.

EBSA- Kara Lythene
If I were to commit my men to your new government, I would first like to know of any possible enemies.

Even if there is no major threat to this government, we have sure that that other members are on the side of law and order. The Militia cannot share a name with the likes of swindling merchants or thieves, who else would you have join?

[Zemalac]

Bookbinder's Guild to EBSA (ESP-D 5)

Of course. The Guild is always looking for new clients, and renewing the relationship we once had with the Bureaucracy would be beneficial to us both. What did you have in mind?


Lodstrom High Society Club to EBSA (ESP-D 5)

Of course! We are always willing to welcome our friends from House Lythene to our little get-togethers. We are meeting for drinks in the back rooms of the Emerald Swan this Saturday, at eighth bell. We will tell the doorman to let Ms. Lythene in. I'm sure she will be full of entertaining Oldtown stories.


Orn Totre: EBSA [Private]

Your messenger is jumped by half a dozen masked figures an hour into his journey, blindfolded and thrown into the back of a wagon, which spends another hour driving in seemingly random directions. When the blindfold is taken off he is in a dark room, tied to a chair facing a mirror with a little grille in the middle of it, behind which dim shapes are moving. The dirt floor is covered in little splatters of dried blood.

The voice that comes from the grille can only be described as oily. "Good evening," it says. "What can we do for the Executive Bureaucracy today, hmm?"


Wrecken Family to EBSA (ESP-D 4)

We will meet with your representative, but not if you are also dealing with the Hearthfeathers.


Hearthfeather Family to EBSA (ESP-D 4)

You petty bureaucrats, always thinking you'll be the ones to mediate our little wars. Let me tell you what will end this war, young man: ten dead Wreckens for every one of my sons they have killed. In case you're not too good at math, that would be all of the Wreckens.


Count Eric Bassa to Lord Henry Wallen (ESP-D 4)

Henry,

Good to hear from you again, old boy! So long as you don't mind sharing the guest stage with a delightful young lady from House Lythene, we're going to be meeting in the back of the Emerald Swan at eighth bell on Saturday. I doubt I'd even have to tell the doorman to let you in. If you'd prefer a more private meeting with the club, well, that can be arranged too.

I should warn you that some members of our little group do tend to see a bit too much of your father in you for their comfort. Step carefully, old boy.

Delightfully Yours,

Eric


The Exchange [Private]

Felix Urd
The merchants are interested, as this is much the same deal as they have with the Ansigaris, but the guards themselves make it clear in no uncertain terms that they will take steps if they think their power is being taken away.

Jess Furs
The Ambassadorial Guard are proud, still standing watch in front of abandoned embassies. From all appearances, they control the Row in its entirety. Of the knight, you find only rumors. You will need a more concentrated search to discover anything more (OOC: Will require EoT action of some kind).


Yellow Court to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 4)

Did mine ears hear that right? Mayhaps you have mistaken us for another Court, one comprised of cravens. We reject your laughable offer wholesale, and cordially invite you to come die on the Black Streets. You will not find the Yellow Court as easy to cow as your pitiable Daimot charlatans, of that I assure you.


Crimson Court to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 4)

**** off.


Blacksbrace Gang to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 3)

Yes. Gods in a ****ing ditch, anything to get that mother****ing wizard outta here.


Thelonius [Private]

Add in another [+] WEL. You could easily get the building up for half of that, but equipping it is just as expensive.


Illarym Trade Ministry to Wardens (ESP-D 5)

I see. That is, in fact, one thing that we do not require in the South, and as such I do not believe it should be overly difficult to supply you. We have some null-bombs that should do the trick--I will request the Ministry of Mystic Unity to provide me with a description of the equipment that I will attach to this letter.

We will, of course, expect you to offset some of the costs associated with getting these supplies to you. Say, [++++ WEL].

-Minister Moth

Attached: Letter from Minister of Mystic Unity Debbleis Borthe

As you are no doubt aware, the perpetual issue with antimagic enchantments is that they eventually turn inward and evaporate, since they are themselves of magical origin. Most of the research and experimentation in this line as been with extending the length of the antimagic field using various ways of "tricking" the spell into treating itself as something other than what it is.

Null-bombs do not do this. They instead take advantage of the fact that they are going to turn on themselves and use that warping of energies to put out more power than any other magic-cancelling spell that we know of. This unfortunately destroys the bomb, among other things, but as the result is an effective magic-disruption device that can be deployed by a properly-trained infantryman, the negative side effects were deemed acceptable.

Bear in mind that the disruption only lasts for a split second. Some enchantments will be destroyed entirely in that time, and most mages will be sent reeling, but individuals of particularly strong willpower may weather the storm and remain dangerous. Also, please for the love of any god you hold dear, remember that the bomb will do the same to your own magical equipment.


OOC: Gain one-shot Tech: Null-Magic Bombs. Can be deployed to negate up to [+++++] Magic, though it will prevent you from using your own Magic in that same action.


Gatekeeper's Guard to Wardens (ESP-D 5)

Assistance in pushing out the Milanus Protective Association would be welcome, though we would rather keep our independence from your organization afterwards. I'm sure we can come to some sort of mutually-beneficial agreement on that subject.


Guild Watch Association to Wardens (ESP-D 5)

Like hell you're taking over Guild's Hand. This here is our turf. All you Imperial dogs can just go barking on home.


The Street Men to the Ram Revolution (ESP-D 4)

We ain't too interested in all your politickal speachifyin'. While yer offer is a kindly one, I reckon it's a bit too much to pay--we ain't interested in fightin', just in keepin' the streets clear, ya know? We'll deal with the damn Knifehands ourselves, never you fear.


Factories South: UAL (ESP-D 2)

Rocco was one. They were three, which gave them a bit of confidence.

"Well, lads, look what we got here?" said the one with the ugly hat. "Eu-Ay-El boy, come down to where th' real men work for a chat, is dat right?"

Their smiles could not be considered anything near friendly.


To HerbieRAI (Private)

Magic Items: Absolutely.

Orn Totre: The people are eager to get out from under the control of the secret police, but the Mouth of Neposh quickly finds himself pursued by masked men bearing a recognizable heart-and-spear badge.

Any further meaningful action should wait for EoT.


Gear's Chosen to Technists Guild (ESP-D 4)

Though the Holy Writ of Mechanical Purity has deemed some of your designs heretical, we thank you for your kind words, and look forward to one day having the opportunity to purge your laboratories of clockwork falsehoods.


The Foundary to Technists Guild (ESP-D 4)

No one is adverse to recieving funding, though some of the enchanters express worry about your entirely-mechanical contraptions, arguing that enhancing them with magic would make them work more efficiently and that you are fools for not having done so.


Swordsware to House Laurier (ESP-D 4)

Aye, we'll work with you lot--ye seem like fine folks. From across the mountains, if ye don't mind me asking? We get good steel from over that way. Damn sight better than the trash they send us from the Protectorate, anyhow. Say nothing else about Merdallanese, even if ye say not a damn thing more, say they know their steel.

If ye want to have yer boys patrol our streets, yer welcome to it, though they'd best not cause trouble or they'll get their arms set on my forge, ye hear? And if ye happen to get yer hands on any of that Kingdom steel, send it my way. That'd be much appreciated.

OOC: You can gain control simply enough by being friendly and ensuring that your soldiers don't bother the locals. You can also earn their thanks and favor by getting them better steel, which would give you a greater degree of control over the neighborhood (stats and whatnot).


TsukikoJ [PM]

The feuding merchants as a whole have a collective ESP-D value that is the average of their individual ones. If you have a plan that involves the entire neighborhood, I'll use one value, if you have a plan that involves just one subfaction I'll use another.

Economic warfare works much the same as it does in 2126, if only because I can't off the top of my head think of a better system. As for whether ESP or ECO would be better in the Pond, I'd say either, depending on whether or not you wanted people to know about it.


To Ragnar [Private]

You've got a Magic score of 2, which isn't particularly high--I used 4 as the "Medium" level in this game, which would be about where you'd get mages who actually knew what they were doing. You can create very low-key permanent effects and some nifty trickery, but blasting the enemy to ashes is probably beyond you. A spell that scatters fliers over an area, though, or that created cunningly animated fliers, or little things like that; that is well within your grasp.

As for the annexation, make your case to the Society Club, then put it in your EoT, and then I'll roll some dice.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Sausage Guild
Def-E 8

To the Exchange (Def-E 4)
Your notice said that you were seeking to invest. Well we have been looking at opportunities for expansion to better feed the growing city. We don't need money though we need space, and your deepest vaults would be perfect for our needs. Perhaps we could work out some sort of arrangement.

- Bloodhand

[Copper8642]

Heladuit Court

Esp-D: 4

Markus Heladuit lounged in a golden seat with plush red curtains. The seat was in a rather large room, a gathering hall of sorts, with a number of seats spread throughout, a full bookshelf along one wall. Hanging from the ceiling were multiple chandeliers, each of exotic materials and shapes. A few of the seats were occupied by various family members, reading books or admiring new vestments. Out of one window, Markus's uncle watched the streets below, and a guard of the Court watched Markus's uncle. Markus continued to smoke his Orphan's Tears, his favorite, from his novelty pipe; it was made from the preserved corpse of a rare type of lizard. He looked across the room at his sister, Meredia, reading a play she had found on the shelves. He was about to make his way over to her, when he saw the a half-orc with a blank expression walk through the door and start heading towards him. Javier never did look normal.

"Message, Markus. Silversmith Guild."

"Ah... mhm... have this message sent back."

To Silversmith's Guild

We might be able to agree to such things. Of note, it is far easier for us to recommend a piece of jewelry to go with one of our shirts, then it would be for you to recommend one of our suits just to match a piece of jewelry you sell.

Maybe, to make this deal a little more even, we could also work with you to embroider such gems into our designs?

[Nyrt]

Cornelius StigBalathad, To Home Guard, [by personal visit]
Sir,

It has come to my attention what a vital establishment the Home Guard is for the Risen Court neighborhood. As such, I would like to provide funding for the equipping of the guards who valiantly police the streets.

In exchange, I would like to propose a deal. I have realized that there is no watch established in the Old Face neighborhood. I have discussed this with several other major noble households, namely the Founder family and the Pontiss family. We all have agreed to provide funding for you so long as your organisation provides protection for the nobility in the sky neighborhood as well, and report to the aforementioned noble families within.

Bennet Founder, to the Heladuit Court [4]
Sir,

I have found myself unexpectedly in need of a suit, as my last several seem to have been accidentally destroyed by some kind of acid. The full circumstances are quite complicated, and I'll not bore you with the details for now. I hope this does not inconvenience you, as I seem to be running through them quite quickly recently. I will send a servant with payment to pick it up and pay for your troubles- make sure he gives you the proper amount- I trust my servants, but you never know.

Many thanks,
Bennet Founder

[Grimsage Matt]

To the Gears Chosen
We loom forword to seeing how you progress technology. If you wish, we can send you a copy of the Liber Technologica?

To the Foundry
Well, it's been our policy to try and push mechanics further with using enchantment. Sort of see how far we can go on pure technological power alone. We'll provide funding, do you have any projects currently planed? We'll support any technological or magitech advance that would benifit all people.

[oblivion6]

mercantiles guild
morale:3

silversmiths guild
very good. i will begin talking to my foreign contacts to see who might be interested in them

to the ESBA
of course, we can provide you with any financial support you need to set this up. i am working on unifiying the stacks right now. it could help tremendously if we can make friends with the other powers

to GM
so could i just march my militia onto the traitors bridge and begin setting up tollhouses and the like?

about how much wealth would it take to buy up both of the families who operate the stage coach businesses in the turnaround?

about what kind of tech level are we looking at here? like say if i eventually wanted to construct a massive airship armed to the teeth with blackpowder weaponry, could that be done?

to the gears
OOC: this is the place with the the gears chosen right?

greetings. would you be willing to merge into the mercantiles guild? i understand that you arent very well funded and i believe if you merged with the guild your inventions could be spread to the entire world and you would of course have access to the funding you need?

[IcemanJRC]

United Alliance of Labor
Morale: IT DOESN'T MATTER JUST LOOK

Factories South

Mr. Dennis said you were bad guys. I'm so supposed to get rid of the bad guys. Please leave the city, thank you.
Rocco removes his drivers cap and wads it in his hand, his bald head shining in the street lamp's light.


The Sausage Guild

Now yous know that's not what I's meant. I's was looking for a... Special agreement. If yous catching my drift.
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak

[Greystone]

EBSA Morale 5

Bookbinders
Simply this. We consider the Book-Binders to be a vital part of the city, the functioning organ upon which information flows. We wanted to offer you a position in the EBSA, becoming effectively a department of our group. You will remain in control of the Mewlings, and have access to the funding and support of the EBSA, including Greycloak Bodyguards for your Guild Leaders. Sound reasonable?

Mercantile Guild
Excellent. We are currently in negotiations with the Ram Revolution, Militia, and other various groups around the city. Could you give a little this turn? We might need to train some extra security for the conference.

Orn Totre- Private
The runner looks up frightened before taking a deep breath "The EBSA wants to offer you a deal. We both know that the sorceress is dead, and a purging of her former supporters is... very possible" his voice clears as he tries to pick out the owner of the oily voice "The EBSA is the legal might of this city. We can give you new names, identities. In return you join our ranks, to help further our goals. Everyone wins."

Wreken Family
We have decided to back your claim for the district, if in return you will allow the EBSA to re-establish our control over the area. You get a victory and a district, our influence grows. Sound fair?

Heartfeather Family
I appreciate your honesty. We shall not press you any longer.

Militia of Order and Justice- Kara Lythene
Well at the moment the government has no one, though we are strongly considering backing the Ram Revolution's claim. They seem civilized enough and are willing to compromise for a better government. Besides from that I don't know of any forces against order that we are siding with.

Unfortunately I suspect the Black Brotherhood will become a problem quickly, as they appear to be an anarchist cell. Besides them, mostly we will have to combat street gangs and contain various riots.

Kara Lythene- Constantine
"Done, we will make sure that those points are utmost on our groups minds. " she leans closer "We are in an unfortunate situation where the nobles are a major power in our society, so we can't cut them out. So we were considering proposing two chambers of government. One would be elected directly by the people, and these would be the people who make the laws. The other chamber would be nobles, assigned by the various houses. To make their power... less, I am suggesting that their power be mostly overview, giving commentary and such- though I'm not sure what actual role we would give them. Does this sound fair to you?"

Kara Lythene- Lodstrom Society
Kara arrives, and has dressed up for the occasion. Her usual men's clothes have been replaced with a dark blue gown, accentuated with silver jewelry. After chatting for half and hour, she asks for a word with the society's most senior members.

"Honored Lodstrom Society, I am honored to be received this evening. What would you say if the EBSA is willing to help you in the ongoing strife between you and the other families that insist on hindering your influence"

Kara Lythene- UAL
"That is indeed what I'm saying. " she smiles and extends a hand to the man "We may call on you for votes, or help in other areas- feel free to do the same, and if we can we will try to help. "

Kara Lythene- The Wardens
"The idea is that he will give us intel on any tactical emergencies that come up, and give us a direct link to you in case of an emergency. We will both be able to react faster with mutual trust"

[oblivion6]

mercantiles guild

to EBSA
expect maybe 3 wealth this turn and more next turn. or if its preferrable i can send my own 2 MIL. that way i can use that wealth to help us long-term

[Thelonius]

Bloodhaven

Letter to EBSA [6]

''While my time is in extremely short supply, due to lack of qualified aid or even simple administration, I will accept the consultant position, as I see an opportunity to do much good for the city. I would greatly appreciate, if you could provide services of an experienced clerk, at least to show the ropes to my few assistants, keeping the hospital records. I’m afraid, they were selected on their ability to read and count, though their vigour and dedication to their work does them credit. In return I will provide you access to the records and statistics, not pertaining to the names and conditions of individual patients, whose privacy I will respect.''

''As a consultant, my first step would be to draft a set of proposals to implement cheap, but effective measures to reduce the risk of disease. I believe your organization would have extensive records about the city. If I could access to them, I’d be able to determine the history of diseases and their most likely origins, so such problems can be addressed. I will deliver my proposal, as soon as it’s finished.''

Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Morden Vassari



A letter to Lord Wallen [6]

''I thank you for your kind donation and the new hospital wing will be named in honour of our benefactor. While the demands on hospital care are always high, I will not ask more of you now, but hopefully, if in darker times, you will be there to support us.''

Sincerely Yours,
Dr. Morden Vassari

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To Lodstrom society
Final response to Lord Bassa
Of course I'll be there! It's better if I'm not the only new face around there. It will give them something else to talk about.

The meeting (Def-Esp 6)
Henry smiled and saluted the doorman as he came in. He was an old Bassa servant, who had chased him and Lord Vassa around the garden, over troubles about some stolen apples. Good times.

He got there just after mss Lysene did. He made small talk, and even talked to her for a few minutes. Amazing woman.

In the meantime, he arranged for a meeting with the leaders of the group after her proposal, since he had decided to let Ms Lysene make her argument first.

They asked him if he knew anything, and he admitted to have talked to her before, but didn't let many details escape.
"It's big, it's important" He said.

And (If previous dialogue had shown him that this particular nobles shared his mindset), he added "And it may be just the thing we need to get out of this fix".


OOC: In the smalltalk (Which will of course include politics); the position he will present to the Lodstrom society is that the older houses are strangling the city with their petty fights.
Henry is worried aboutt he loss of the commoners, and thinks that getting them back is the only way to save the town.

To do that, an united noble front is required; and one strong enough to stand up to the older houses.
If asked to go deeper on the subject; he will be honest and tell them to wait until miss Lysene ends her speech. His ideas will make more sense after that.

On his father issue; he will be straight. Thiugh he loved him, he was a drunk and a fool, who played politics as it was played 500 years ago.
His ways damaged House Wallen to a great extent.

(On a lesser note, I should've written this before if I haven't; Henry drinks only water with very little wine).


He is well dressed, but not magnificent. He tries to mix with the group, not using his position as a way to get above others as his father always did.
If he wins a discussion, he wins it on wits alone.

Of course, he TRIES to win the discussions, if only to show his skill. He tries to avoid being disrespectful, and avoids insults like a plague.

[WrathOfLife]

The Exchange

OOC sorry, been busy.

The Sausage Guild

We are interested but obviously such an agreement will be built on a relationship of trust and down payments. What resources of ours would you be interested in renting and what price would you be willing to pay?


GM

Felix Urd
Felix is to assure the guards that they will not lose power, infact they will gain secure and stability. When a guard is injured who cares for them? Who looks after their pension? Who ensures every guard gets equal treatment? The exchange can do that. Every guard without exception will be hired on
by the exchange, partially funded by the new taxation system Felix is introducing. The guards positions will be contracted in and they will be able to access cheap loans for housing as well as many other benefits of working with the exchange.

Jess Furs will act in EOT


mercantiles guild

The exchange monitors the financial situation of the city and ensures its investments are profitable. We may be able to broker deals with information gathers but we would act sololy as a middle man for such an arrangement.

We would be more than willing to work with you on a joint project. Currently the Exchange is looking into many investment opportunities.


The Church of Neposh

Please forgive our defensive nature. We assumed when you mentioned evading taxation that your tunnels were of an illegal nature. The exchange desires to always act with in the law and is sensitive to matters of financial mismanagement.

We hope you took no offense.

[Eldan]

Blackfist Brotherhood [6]

To the Common People of The Gear

Brothers!
We see you suffering under the yoke of insane cults and reckless artificers. Speak the word, and we will help free you.

-The Little Finger

To the Host's Watch
We cast our eyes over the city, and when we look at the Traveler's quarter, we see what we like. Common people, uniting behind a goal to protect their own interests, with force, if need be. Speak the word, brothers, and we will help you defend your own.
-The Little Finger

The Gangs of Tremorous, the Pits, the Mains
Brothers!
It is your right to fight each other, but should you direct your wrath upwards, at your so-called betters, instead of at those as poor as you? Why is it that some in this city are rich, and some are poor? You form gangs with your brothers to protect yourselves. Why do you need protection? Because there is never enough for all of you.
Could you not, instead, leave each other be and fight your common enemy? Raise the torch, brothers!
-The Little Finger

The Blackjack Boys

It is the right of every man to defend himself against those who would harm him. And if those who would harm him have magic, then a man learns to take down mages.
Now one mage, the one ruling this city, was taken down, and the question becomes: should we wait until another is put in charge, or should we strike now, while the time is ripe, and set this city on a course to freedom from such tyranny?
-The Little Finger


The people of Little Veras
[This one is called out loud on street corners and handed out in pamphlets]

People of Little Veras!
This is a neighbourhood where every man can be said to be his own King! Would you bend your knees to the rich, the bureaucrats and the unions again, who will tell you what to do and what not? Who will smother you in laws and regulations? Or would you be free from now to all eternity, ruling your own matters? The decision should be simple!
Raise your fists, brothers, raise the torches!


The Street Men
You fight against the Knife Hands, and that is true and proper. But what will you fight when they are cast down? You could win your freedom with this struggle, and rule your own affairs, or you could come through, victorious, with our help, only to find that you are to bend the knee to some new overlord of this city, no better than the sorceress.
Raise your fists, brothers!
-The Little Finger

The Locals of Deadman's Hill
You do not like having that travesty of a prison looming over you? Whose fault is it that it does? Not the inmates, for most of them are people like you. Those who angered their so-called "betters". Who could not pay the taxes that they broke their backs to pay.
No. It is the warden's fault. Whose side would you be on, when the wardens were to fall? Raise a torch with us, brothers!

-The Little Finger

[Imperial Psycho]

The Order of the Wren Morale: 4

To UAL
I simply do not think our interests lie in the same direction. If you have other suggestions, I will hear them.

[HerbieRAI]

The Church of Neposh

To EBSA PM

A democracy does seem like a great option for government, although there are many ways to implement such a thing. Would every person have an equal say in the government, Would there be certian things the government cannot control, how would the military be managed. Surely you have thought of these issues.


To The Exchange (DESP 4)

No offense taken. It would mearly be a way of avoiding the many different factions that are going to be popping up through the city.

We also may be interested in taking out a loan. We are looking to remove the last reminance of the old regime. What would be required of us to get a WEL 1 loan?

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution
Rot's Borough

TO: Technist Guild (D ESP 4)

I have an item that I would like you to build, if you are able. We have need of a way to distribute pamphlets to the masses. Currently, every sheet must either be handwritten, or carved onto a horrendously expensive stereotype in order to be printed. The time these processes take, as well as the rather slow printing process, means that even the smallest leaflets are more expensive than anyone in my borough can afford. If we had a way to print fast and move the letters around, so that we could put whatever we want on it, the prices could come down, and we could spread our message to all of the huddled masses of the city.
OOC: I think a printing press would be an excellent invention. Not sure how you have it worked out with Zemalac to create things though. I would be willing to trade for presses however, if you make them.


TO: Church of Neposh (D ESP 7)

Your Holiness,
We of the Ram Revolution, as you may know, are seeking to protect the rights of all from the wants of few. Certainly, when looking at the history of the oppression the elves forced upon us, this is a needed movement. It is clear to us that we are the proper government of this city, just as it is clear to you and your followers that you are the one true church. HOWEVER: While we both know these things, I am afraid that all of our great city does not. I would like to propose an agreement, where we each endorse the other as the true church or religion, thereby bringing believers to both the Church, and the Revolution. As two of the true powers in the city, this would also mean a certain amount of cooperation, though since you are located in Old Town, I doubt that there would be much we would disagree over currently. When we finalize our new government, we would of course officially make the Church the state religion of Sav Altulas, but until we control the city, we will not make any permanent rulings that would cause others to feel unable to act in our government.
We await your reply
-The Ram


Constantine - Kara Lythene (Private)

"That sounds reasonable. The nobles could act as an advisory board to the lawmakers. They have the experience dealing with other nations and creating laws, so between them knowing what is impossible and the commoners telling them what is reasonable, we may yet turn this city into a place that is worth living in.

[Grimsage Matt]

To the Rams
The Milltia of Order and justice wanted the same thing. We'll see what we can do.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Sausage Guild
Def-E 8

To the UAL (Def-E 2)
And what sort of special arrangement do you hope to come to given that we are on opposite ends of the city.

-Bloodhand

To the Exchange (Def-E 4)
We have no interest in renting anything. We were under the impression that you were looking for investment opportunities. An investment requires the investor to put in some of their own assets. In this case the assets are your deep vaults which are currently doing nothing productive. If you provide us access to those, we will provide the labor and skill to actually make them productive, and then we can split the profit.

- Bloodhand

[HerbieRAI]

To Ram Revolution (DESP 7)

We will move to support the revolution if the revolution will support the faithful. We are currently trying to rid the city of the last reminants of the witches power, do you have any aid you could send for our holy crusade?

OOC: Yay for high moral factions.

[IcemanJRC]

The United Alliance of Labor

Letter to The Sausage Guild

I'm suggestin that we's help eachother set up shop across town. We's get chu ova here, yous get us over there. Then wes get free food and yous get free service. Neh? Are you picking up what I'm putting down?
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak


Letter to The Order of the Wren

Well then you misunderstand sir. We's looking out for Runner's city, and yous are looking out for Runner's City. We's the same.
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak


EBSA

Yous got it mamacita. The UAL is gon' help you out.
The boss smirks again and takes out a cigar,
Nows that business is taken care of,
He holds the cigar to the woman,
Can I's get ta know you?

[ForzaFiori]

TO: Church of Neposh (D ESP 7)

At this time, we are working to secure our borders, and much of our militia forces are going to this purpose. However, we would never let it be said that we did not try to help our allies. (-) military will be reserved for your use. Should you have need of it, simply send us a message saying where it is to be deployed. In the coming weeks we will be holding a recruitment drive for our forces however, and may be able to send more if needed.

I am afraid however, that we must ask for aid as well. You may have heard of our request to the Technist Guild for a quick printing machine. This will almost certainly cost money however - money we don't have. If you would be willing to help finance some of the cost of obtaining these devices, we will use them to print church notices, books, and leaflets, as well as our own, greatly improving the amount of people exposed to our messages.
-C. Richter

[Imperial Psycho]

The Order of the Wren Morale: 4

To the UAL
Perhaps. But we are based in the Runner's City. You are based in the Docks. What manner of co-operation are you proposing?

[TsukikoJ]

House Laurier

Roper's Watch [4]
I hear rumor that within your neighborhood there is a way of contacting the Kingdom of Merdallan. Is there any weight to that rumor?

Also, how goes your fight with the Decker's Dogs? Despicable folk, they are. We might be able to help you take them out at some point.
Swordsware [4]
Ah, yes. Your guess is correct. The Lauriers are from across the mountains. We have several notable branches in both Merdallan and the city-states, though we seem to have lost contact with them recently. One of our current priorities is reestablishing contact with that area of the world. I have strong suspicions about how I might be able to do so. Once we have established contact, we will do what we can to get you some of that kingdom steel.

Thank you, my friends, for being reasonable and agreeable. I will make sure the household guard does not interfere with your interests. They tend to be pleasant folk, our guards. I'm sure you will get along splendidly.

[IcemanJRC]

United Alliance of Labor

Letter to The Order of the Wren

Simple. Yous help us find a spot in Runner's City to settle down in, open some shops, etc. and we hire some new muscle. Then we's help youses get some more turf. And we's just keep going like that. Savvy?
-CEO Dennis Kasparzak

[oblivion6]

mercantiles guild

to blackfist brotherhood
may i ask why you are trying to muscle your way into the stocks?

to hosts-watch
greetings. i understand that you are funded by well meaning inn keepers and other business owners. while they may keep you funded enough to continue doing your job, i believe if you were willing i could supply you with enough funds to completely drive out the rebels who oppose you within the travelers quarter. then once that is done we can work together to restore this district to its rightful glory

to the exchange
i am working on gaining control of the traitors bridge so we can open the city up to trade with foreign nations, that way the city can prosper and recover. if you can help in maintaining the bridge, i can split the profits with you.

also would you be interested in pooling our intelligence assets, to track down that warlord in the shattered lands that various factions have posted a bounty for?

OOC: the one in the opening post

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Mercantile Guild
Excellent. And to our other proposal, in relation to Guild's Row, would you be interested?
To the Healduit Court
We do have some experience working with gems, even though our priority is obviously silver. That would be acceptable for us. We hope that this can be the start of a long and profitable relationship.

[Greystone]

EBSA Morale 5

Kara Lythene- Constantine
"Excellent on the legislation. As for the... more executive matters we were thinking a Prime Minister of sorts as Head of the Government, taking the role similar to the Chief of the EBSA staff- they set agenda and facilitate discussion. We were also thinking a King or Exarch to be in charge of foreign affairs and perhaps the military. The title of regent has been brought up, giving both term limits."

Kara Lythene- UAL
Her eyebrow raises "Get to... know me?"

Kara Lythene- Church of Neposh
"As for the... more executive matters we were thinking a Prime Minister of sorts as Head of the Government, taking the role similar to the Chief of the EBSA staff- they set agenda and facilitate discussion. We were also thinking a King or Exarch to be in charge of foreign affairs and perhaps the military. The title of regent has been brought up, giving both term limits.

Mercantile Guild
The wealth would be more useful but beggers can't be choosers.

Bloodhaven
We have plenty of administers to send to you to help structure and set up your hospital, though that would be much easier if we were to fully integrate and become a medical branch of the EBSA, but we are aware you may not wish to be tied down, so we shall send the consultants.

As for your proposals we shall dig up as many records as we can and set them up in your new office inside of the Halls of Final Justice (Policy says large amounts of records can not leave the premise of an EBSA building unless an emergency demands it.). We look forwards to working with you.

Dekan O'vail, Chief of Staff

[oblivion6]

mercantile guild

silversmith guild
well, i am quite a distance away from guilds row but i will work with you to restore it. waiting to hear from the GM about a few things before i know how much i can currently contribute

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Mercantile's Guild
Of course, just please remember to contact us when you are ready.

[IcemanJRC]

The United Alliance of Labor

EBSA

Yeahs. You know, a little booze, a bit ta' eat. Talk about cherself, no work stuff. Dere's a little 'ole in the wall I could shows yous.
He clips the tip off his cigar and lights it up,
If yous are intrested.

[oblivion6]

mercantile guild

to EBSA
things have changed. i will be sending you 3 wealth instead of my men as i need to keep them close to home due to current situation

[Zemalac]

Home Guard to Cornelius StigBalathad [Private]

OOC: I will assume you meant Old Face.

Certainly, that would be an acceptable arrangement, though we fear we must also report to several noble families in Risen Court. They are our original sponsors, and thus must be given due deference.


Gear's Chosen to Technists Guild (ESP-D 4)

We are always looking for more books to add to our collection. While yours is undoubtedly full of unholy devices that disgrace the name of the Righteous Machines, we would be willing to accept this gift.


Foundry Artificers to Technists Guild (ESP-D 4)

Artificer Omar LeFance: "I have been working on a truly magnificent project that I am sure you will be interested in funding. I have very carefully been developing a plague with which to infect all of humanity--I see your eyes widen at the thought! Never fear! My disease only works on the dermal layer, turning all human skin to the indigo hue that God truly intended!"

Sygaldrists Lennec and Teth: "We have been trying to reverse-engineer some interesting magical devices found buried beneath the Triphage Untima. We think they're of Zancharian make. No idea what they do yet, but some of the side-effects of our experimentation have been interesting."

The Mord: "Dogs. I've been making them bigger."

Ser Lostria VenTek: "Well, if you're looking for something to 'benefit all people,' as you said, I've had an idea for easier water purification rattling around for a while. I'd prefer to work on my armor smithing, but if you're proposing to fund it I could give the filtration thing a shot."


To oblivion6 [PM]

Traitor's Bridge: There are already tollbooths and guardhouses along the bridge, controlled by people who until yesterday reported to the sorceress. At the moment, they're not really thinking of tomorrow and are keeping on doing what they were doing, keeping all the money for themselves. You would have to either subvert them or kick them out and replace them with your own people to take over the bridge.

The Turnaround: I can't give you solid numbers on that, because that sort of thing would be considered an economic attack and thus there would be rolls involved. Could be one number, could be another, depending on who the dice favor.

Airship: That could absolutely be done. I think I forgot to copy the Technology briefing over from the recruitment thread, but here's the gist of it: Black powder weapons exist, but aren't that common in the Shattered Lands and Sav Altulas. Airships exist as well, but are even rarer and don't come this far north, due to warlords and dragons.


The Gear's Chosen to Mercantile's Guild (ESP-D 3)

We will accept any donations you choose to give to the True Mechanical Faith, but we refuse to, as you say, "merge" with the Mercantile's Guild. You worship false idols of Coin and Profit, while we worship blueprints drawn in Heaven Itself. These ideals are not compatible.

We would, of course, be willing to provide you with instruction in the Holy Path of the Machine, should you so desire.


Factories South: Union Throwdown Edition (ESP-D 2)

"Ya hear dat, boys? We bad guys, looks like!" Ugly Hat grinned. "An' who would doubt dat, comin' as it does from th' king o' th' skeezeballs, Dennis Fatarse, eh? Fairly boggles th' mind."

There were chuckles all around. A real comedian, was this fellow.

"You head on back uptown, now," said Hat, losing his smile with a suddenness, "and you let dat dip**** Dennis know dat if he wants us to play bad guys, we'll ****in' play bad guys, aight? An' you, if I see you 'round here again, why, I can't say fer shure dat they'll ever find all the pieces of ya. Hear me?"


Bookbinder's Guild to EBSA (ESP-D 5)

The arrangement you propose raises some questions for us. First of all, to what degree would working for the EBSA affect our normal operations? A lot of our business comes from private enterprises or aspiring authors wishing to publish, and we would not want an editorial oversight other than our own to interfere in that work.


Orn Totre: EBSA (ESP-D 5)

This much ESP lets you know that an EBSA messenger has been captured by the former secret police and taken somewhere for questioning. You do not know the contents of that conversation.

PM-EBSA

A steel plate slams down behind the grille, and the messenger can hear voices murmuring beyond it for a moment. When it is raised a new voice speaks, this one very, very deep, sending bass echoes rumbling through the dungeon.

"A purging of Desoui's chosen," it says, chuckling. "What put that idea into your head, my friend? What have you heard that we have not?"

There is a sound of metal on metal from behind the messenger's chair, just a slight clink.



Wrecken Family to EBSA (ESP-D 4)

More than fair. Let us end this petty war so that we may get to the business of making Heartsblood into the noble district that it was meant to be.


Lodstrom High Society Club-Kara Lythene

"Strife?" A genteel chuckle. "Perhaps you are thinking of some other Club, eh? We just enjoy our drinks, dear lady, not..."

"Erhm," said an older gentleman, watching Kara very carefully with ice-blue eyes. "Herbert, the usual talk won't work here. Our friend from Lythene is a sharp girl, I think. She knows about Matoff."

"That fat ****," said Herbert, all of the geniality leaving his voice in an instant.

"My dear, dear child," said the old man, as though Herbert had not spoken, "You have my full attention, which is something that many like you have tried and failed to claim. What sort of assistance did you have in mind, hmm?" He laughed quietly to himself. "I feel it unfortunate that I must remind someone from a fellow noble house of this, but here in the Sky no one feels any obligation to the petty bureaucracies and legalities that hold sway elsewhere. I cannot see anything that your...what was it? Executive Bureaucracy? A quaint title, don't you think, implying a structure that is in itself the executive, or head of state, the organization built to support the thing that it itself has become...a worm eating its own tail or somesuch. Anyway. I cannot see anything that your EBSA can do for us, but my eyesight has not been the best of late. Perhaps you can bring something entertaining to light for me." Eyes too bright for that old, knowing face winked at her. "And talk fast, girl. Henry, old Thiugh Wallen's son, is here--you may have met him during drinks earlier, charming fellow--and I suspect he may have an interesting proposal for us as well."


To Ragnar Lodbroke [Private]

I'm going to wait until the Society's conversation with Kara Lythene is concluded before having them respond to you, if that's okay.


Felix Urd: The Exchange (Private)

The Ansigaris will consider your offer. Many of them are inclined to agree to it at once, citing the good treatment of the Exchange's current guards, but some are leery, and want more information on what you are intending to do with the neighborhood once you have control. Why do you want your guards on our homes? What is the game, here?


The Gear to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 2)

All we want is to get these goddamn machine cultists out of our neighborhood. Should you help drive them out, we will fight by your side.


The Host's Watch to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 4)

We are the foreigners, the innkeepers, and the men at the door. We have seen many come and go in this city, including the sorceress who's downfall you are trumpeting in the streets. Perhaps one day we will see you go as well. We do not like your politics, but we will not refuse any aid in defending our homes from the broken men who try to burn them down.


Gangs to Blackfist (ESP-D 0)

Aye, and what then? All yer gonna find is that there ain't never enough for everyone, fingerboy. Pull yer head out of yer ass, why don't you.

OOC: That said, a lot of gang members are certainly interested in your message.


Blackjack Boys to Blackfist (ESP-D 5)

We got our own problems, boyo. You think the sorceress was bad? Least with her, you knew where you stood. Come on up Redress Street some day, we'll hunt down a MU Sifter or two so you can see what magic can do when it's not concerned with the business of running things and just wants to steal and destroy.


Little Veras to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 2)

The madmen in the Foundry like the way you speak, friend.

"It is amazing what you can build when you have no limitations."
-Lucas Deplorian, Tinker-King of Veras.


The Street Men to the Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 4)

When the Knifehands are done with, we won't be fighting anyone. All we ever wanted to do was our jobs, see? Just keep the streets clean. Don't know how it got to be all about politics around here.


Deadman's Hill to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 1)

**** the police.


To ForzaFiori, Grimsage Matt

Just as a note, printing presses do exist, and there are in fact some already in Sav Altulas. However, the Bookbinder's Guild has a habit of posting bounties on presses that are not under their control, which keeps the technology all but unknown outside of Mewlings.


Roper's Guard to House Laurier (ESP-D 4)

Funny, we heard the same rumor about your neighborhood. Though admittedly that rumor may have been talking about you yourselves.

Decker's Dogs are louts, pure and simple, bandits who thought they could get people to treat them with respect if they called themselves mercenaries and took over a couple of taverns. Thieving, brawling *******s, the lot of 'em. Any help you want to send our way would be appreciated; we certainly can't deal with it.


The Host's Watch to Mercantile's Guild (ESP-D 3)

More funds would be appreciated. These bandit gangs, they are getting worse every year. What we really need is some form of gatehouse control, and maybe some cheaper rooms so that the refugees can get themselves sorted out and don't form street gangs right away. Every effort we've made to fix the problem has only made it worse, though, so maybe we're not the best people to be making suggestions.

[oblivion6]

mercantile guild
morale:3

to gears chosen
hmm...training in the art of machinery might do us well. it also appears that the blackfist brotherhood is looking for an excuse to wipe you out

to turnaround
i suggest a merger with my guild. that way i have the authority to bring my full might to bear on the situation. i understand if your reluctant to do such a thing though.

to GM
oh, i know such a thing might take a bit. thats why i have the money and others have the technological know how to make me such things

on second thought, how much wealth would it take to hook myself up with a fairly large airship? i am equipped with a trait that allows me to get in contact with such dealers. i might hold out on the stage coach business. i believe im stretching myself sorta thin

[HerbieRAI]

Church of Neposh

To the Merchintile guild (DESP 3)

We are very glad you are willing to support the true faith. What size of a donation are you wanting to make? We are able to give you access to the tunnels immediatly, but the relics will take a little longer to deliever.
(ooc: the relics are echanted items that provide protection from enemies. We will also have weapons that give the wielder strength, but they are not ready yet.)

To the Silversmiths guild (DESP 4)

Unfortunetly we do not have much in the lines of precious metals or stones. What we do have is real protection. Our pendants are fused with the holy protection of the Holy Neposh. Although we have none currently, we can also make weapons that contain the fury of the True god


To the Ram Revolution (DESP 7)

We are willing to assist you in the device. We can currently donate 1 WEL, although we do not wish to communicate with the Technist Guild directly as of now. I have no ill toward them, but we feel like the conversation could turn south very easily.


To the Hearthfeather Family (PM)

Havey comes to the Hearthfeather mansion, and seeks an audience with the head of the house. (assuming he's allowed in)
Lords of the house, Rumors have came to my ears that you have been fighting with another house over this district. I'm not sure what your beliefs are, but giving praise to Neposh can always help when in a conflict. He was born of conflict with the Gods themselves, surely if you are willing to give financial backing to the church, you will find your resources in other areas multiply.

[Eldan]

The Blackfist Brotherhood

To the Gear's Chosen
Despite what you may have heard, we do not aim for your destruction. We are not directly concerned with your destruction, or whatever it is you build.
However, we would ask you to relocate to another place, if that can be arranged, or find a way of conducting your studies without disturbing the locals of the district. They do not want you in their midst, and if it were to come to open conflict, we found find ourselves your enemies. Which, though regrettable for us, would not end to your advantage.

-The Little Finger

To the Common People of The Gear [2]
First, we will attempt a peaceful solution. But be not disheartened brothers: if the Chosen should prove unwilling to negotiate, they will be driven away.

To the Host's Watch [4]
We do not want politics any more than you do. It is a necessity, that we have to engage in, not a wish. But we fight for the same thing you do: a man's right to defend his own home. We do not ask for your help. We ask for your voice: state your independence, your willingness to handle your own affairs instead of bowing to some government caring more about your taxes than your lives, and you will have a friend in us, brothers.

The Gangs [0]
Perhaps there won't ever be enough for everyone. But there can certainly quite a bit more for those who have the least. Ask yourselves: how come that some live in palaces, and some in the streets? There will never be a palace for everyone. But perhaps a roof to most.
In any case, let us say this: our doors are open to every man who wishes to join us. If your bosses do not want to join the cause, be a man, brother, and go on your own!

To Little Veras [2]
And we would like to have you for an ally. Think of it as a mutually beneficial partnership: we defend your streets against the trampling boots and pikes of those who would call themselves our overlords, and you... give whatever help you can, in machines or resources.

To the Street Men [4]
And that is what we fight for, brothers! A man should have the right to do his job and live his life, without paperwork and politics. What we say is this: do your job, by all means, but declare that you want no hand in whatever government is set up. That you want to be independent and rule your own affairs as a district. Even from that, you would have a friend in the Blackfist Brothers. If we were to help you handle security, you could do your job all the more easily.

To Deadman's Hill [1]
****ing the Police is a beginning, brothers, and one we share. But it is not an end. A man of the watch takes a job he is paid for. He will be ruthless, he will be cruel, but in the end, he does what he has to to make his family survive.
Move up, brothers, from ****ing the police, to ****ing the state! Join the cause, and raise a torch!

[ForzaFiori]

Constantine - Kara Lythene (Private)
"Your idea of a 'regent' sounds acceptable. More power in the position than I had originally wanted, but compromise was the point of this meeting, wasn't it? Any other semantics can hopefully be solved at the upcoming meeting at EBSA headquarters"

TO: Church of Neposh (D ESP 7)

As the church surely knows from collecting tithes, every bit helps. Once the Technists have completed their machine, that money will make big strides towards setting up our own. In respect for your wishes, I will of course keep the church from being mentioned when dealing with the guild.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To GM
Sounds great. That was my plan.

To Bloodhaven (D. Esp 4)
My dear doctor; feel free to ask anything you need. Always glad to help the city.

Lord Henry Wallen

To EBSA
When are you planning to meet? Would you need any extra security?

[Grimsage Matt]

To Bloodhaven
We offered Funding to some Artificers recently, and this is one of the forms submited;
Artificer Omar LeFance: "I have been working on a truly magnificent project that I am sure you will be interested in funding. I have very carefully been developing a plague with which to infect all of humanity--I see your eyes widen at the thought! Never fear! My disease only works on the dermal layer, turning all human skin to the indigo hue that God truly intended!" As your doctors, thought we'd give you a heads up. Also, would you be intrested in exchanging notes on biology sometime? It's not our primary focus, but we always Value information.

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

to church of neposh
expect 3 wealth this turn and if things go well more next turn. i am currently engaged in several other projects that require the rest of my wealth

[Nyrt]

Cornelius StigBalathad to Home Guard [Private]
Ah, yes, of course. This should not be a problem. If I could inquire about the names of these gentlemen to whom you report?

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Church of Neposh
That is very interesting. We will see if we have the funds necessary to purchase them, and if not this turn then definitely the next one.

[Greystone]

EBSA

Kara Lythene- Constantine
"Indeed." she stands to leave "I hope that all your endeavors go smoothly. Have a nice day, and if you need anything, send a runner"

UAL- Kara Lythene
"Sure, I could use something to drink" she shrugs "Not that hungry but, that's not a problem. I have some time to chat"

Ragnar
The meeting will occur next (turn). We could use more security for the perimeter.

Bookbinders
We make make some simple administrative changes to bring the Guild up to EBSA code, and major decisions will have to be authorized, but we have no interest in censoring publishers or taking away your control of the industry.

Orn Totre- Private
The runner sputters "N-nothing I've heard, but there is a feeling that is merely a matter of time before someone decides to win political points by taking a... very harsh stance on the sorceress's former supporters. " he shrugs as best he can "We just wanted to offer a mutually beneficial deal before that occurs. "

Wreken Family
Our forces are better at defensive conflicts, so perhaps our Greycloaks can hold the line while you can commit all of your troops. This might force the Heartfeathers to stretch their lines thin. Besides from that, what other help would you need?

Kara Lythene- Lodstrom Society
Kara waits listening to the other nobles, before she smiles tightly and saying her piece "What can we add? My dear lords, soon (next turn) we shall be hosting the meeting that hopefully will chart the course of the next government of the city. We can offer soldiers, financial backing, and smooth the legalities of various political actions requiring paperwork. " she pauses and steps forwards "In a word, while we are not the most publicly powerful of organizations, we are strong enough behind close doors. Speaking of Lord Wallen, I have already spoken with him, and his has offered his support to the formation of the new government. What I am here for is your support, and the EBSA is willing to aid you in establishing yourselves as superior to the old blood houses in terms of influence over this district"

Mercantile Guild
Very well, troubles.

[IcemanJRC]

United Alliance of Labor

Factories South: Union Throwdown Edition

Mr. Dennis said if you wouldn't go, I'd have to make you go. And Mr. Dennis said that the bad guys would say mean things, and that I wasn't supposed to listen and I was just supposed to make them go away. I'm gonna make you go away now.

Rocco replaced his hat and frowned.
Please leave.


EBSA

The boss smiles and straightens his ill-fitting coat,
Well I's is just tickled pink. What's you's name dollface? Mines 'es Dennis.
He laughs and gestures for her to follow, making his way towards the docks proper. As he begins to move his thugs make to follow, but he quickly shoos them away,
AYE, I'M WALKING HERE! BACK OFF YA' SCHMUCKS!
He chuckles again and turns back towards his date,
Who'd a thunk this'd happen, neh?

[ArcaneStomper]

The Sausage Guild

To the UAL
Very well then we agree. To cement this deal we will tell you this. We expect to make a major expansion in the coming weeks. If we can count on your services afterwards then you can count on all the meat you can eat when you expand your own plans to give the workers of the city some much needed organization.

-Bloodhand

[NM020110]

The Librarian of the Elements
Esp-D: 4

To: The Yellow Court

And here I thought that I would find no-one with even a trace of civilization here. I suppose that since you were so cordial, that I will grant a boon.

The Crimson court will soon be destroyed. If you should accept vassalage, then I shall spare you the same fate, and grant you control of this neighborhood.

Otherwise, we shall see who is the stronger between us.


To: The Crimson Court

If that is your only response, then I shall carry out my earlier promise. Expect my response in two weeks time.


To: The Blacksbrace Gang

Very well, then. I will begin my attack in three days.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To Lodstrom Society
OOC: Given that tomorrow is the EoT, I wanted to end this as soon as possible.

(Assuming they accept to attend the EBSA meeting):

Once Kara Lythene had finished, Henry stepped in to talk to the leaders
"Well, now that you know what the odds are, and have agreed to attend the meeting, I will tell you what my ideas are.

Basically, I think like you. The older Houses (Including most of my own) have transformed the sistem into a joke. The noble class is no longer alive, and the ones of us who actually want to make this city work are strangled by it.

That is the reason for all the cults, gangs, and anarchists running around. If we don't adapt, we'll be destroyed.
I brought some samples He passes around some of the flyers publicly distributed by the Blackfists

Some of you may think they are a joke. They are not. They are strong and dangerous, and we will have to deal with them shortly.
We have to win the masses back to do that.

I think the idea of the EBSA meeting can give us some legitimacy to form a new government, and maybe stop the revolt that we will undoubtely face otherwise.


In any case, I have a proposal to make. I'll be direct.

I have a great problem, at this time. My father's actions have destroyed a lot of my house's former prestige. I disagree with such actions, and suffered a lot of them on my own skin. Yet I am looked upon as a sequel of such deeds...
Thus, I'm with no allies at the moment, despite belonging to an important house. And I can't hope to make a difference alone.

You, on the other hand, have prestige and desire to create a sistem that works, like I do. But you are too divided, and too small individually to make a difference.

The Old Houses would scowl at your attempts of change, and say things like "Remember your place".
They have enough power to damage you, and will do their best to stop your political ambitions, just like they will with my own.


This is my offer: We will unify our assets. We will form a Party (I'm fine with naming it "Lodstrom party", though I don't care about the name), and we will act together on all things.
The party will be ruled by a Neighbourhood council of 10, elected by its members, (One member, one vote, of course).
We would start with two Councils: Lodstrom and Gleamers.
Each Council would attract more members in the neighbourhood and act as a link between the neighbourhood and the Party.


The Councils will be headed by a Patrician (Who must be a member of one of the councils) elected by all Council Members. The Patrician will discuss matters with the councils and set party policy.
The patrician would decide when the Councils were divided on opinion; and he would have to share his policy decissions with them.

However, that Patrician wouldn't be able to accept the position of King or PM, should the new government be formed.
He could accept a ministry though.


My house may have lost prestige, but I'm still a major noble, and I'm the ruler of Gleamers.
A lot of my noble friends from there would join, and that would be enough to make us powerful.


Finally, I would like to add that not all Houses are New coin or Old Houses. Some Houses stand in the middle, and many of them actually share our vission of things. They are more conservative, and care more about tradition and proper order than we do.

Appointing an Old House Noble like myself as the first patrician would atract those houses to our side.


I know, you don't like that bit too much. But think about it: You would be able to get me down at any time, as soon as you had enough votes. I can assure you that my friends from Gleamers aren't so great to support me if I don't do well.

And the Old Houses wouldn't be able to scowl so much if all of us were together. The dumber ones would think I'm the only man directing the Party.
And as you know, "There is nothing wrong with the smaller houses following the bigger ones" OOC: He says that imitating a really ols member from House Madoff.


Together, we could extend our rule over here, efectively stopping House Matoff, we would be big enough to atract more like-thinking Houses, and we would actually stand a chance against all the anarchists and gangs that are going around these days..

I officially offer my men to serve as further protection to your neighbourhood, and open my barracks to you: you will be able to send your men to train with mine if you like. I belive in military cooperation, and our men would be better working as one.


If the government as planned by the EBSA works, we will be in a great position.

If things went bad, and the Revolution started, we would be better off together and strong than weak and divided.

And you should also think what your other options are: The gentlemen's society seem like a fun group, but they are Old Houses, unlikely to bring any change.
And what will happen if House Matoff takes the initiative?

That is what I think. I would like to know what you think, now.

If you agree, we can form the Council when you choose to (Better soner than later, though)."

(If they don't accept the meeting, please forget all references to it. The speech would be the same)

[Thelonius]

Letter from Bloodhaven to Technists

''Thank you for your warning. I'd be willing to consult you in the field of physiology and chemistry. I hope you would be able to assist me in creating a prototype of mechnaical prosthetics at some point in the future.''

[Zemalac]

Gear's Chosen to Mercantile's Guild (ESP-D 3)

If this is the case, then they are fools and less than fools. Let the heretics come. All the torches they may raise will not burn holy steel.


Bloodthorne Carriage House to Mercantile's Guild (ESP-D 3)

We have some problems that need to be worked out before we can consider such a deal, thanks.


Exodus Carriage House to Mercantile's Guild (ESP-D 3)

No.


To oblivion6 [Private]

Acquiring an airship would cost you, with your Merchant Contacts trait, 20 WEL.


Hearthfeather Family to Church of Neposh [PM]

We have heard of your Neposh and his war with the gods. We will consider it. Miracles always do come in handy, don't they?


The Gear's Chosen to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 6)

What matter is it to the Righteous Machines if they disturb the sleep of the unworthy? The Gear is ours, part of the very plans we build from, and we will not be moved; not by word, not by sword, and not by purging fire.


Host's Watch to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 4)

We will consider your words. At the very least, we would like to keep running our own affairs, and it seems that you are supportive of that.


Little Veras to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 2)

As long as no one interferes with our great work, we are happy to assist you.


Street Men to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 4)

We will give your words a good thinking over. Declaring things to the government reeks a little too much of politics, but being left alone and getting rid of the Knives ain't nothing to scoff at.


Deadman Hill to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 1)

There will be fire in the streets; that we promise you.


Warden Malcolm Exarn to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 4)

I see you trying to incite folk 'round here, trying to rile things up, and I feel I ought to warn you that all you're going to do is get these good people killed. All those poor sods you're telling to "Raise the torch" on Deadman Hill, they're going to have to be put down, you know? Ain't nothing else for it.

Stay the hell away from my people.


Home Guard to Cornelius StigBalathad [Private]

House Etimine, House Jove, House Lusoph, House Terrepa and House Fauxworthy are our main benefactors, though of course there are other lesser houses that also support the Guard.


Bookbinder's Guild to EBSA (ESP-D 5)

We would like to keep our administration exactly the way it is, thank you very much. We are willing to accept the EBSA as clients, but the Guild has always enjoyed a position as an impartial printer and distributor of the written word. Accepting your authority would undermine that impartial position to a degree that we find unacceptable.

We hope this decision does not sour relations between our Guild and your organization.


Orn Totre: EBSA [Private]

"I see," said the deep voice. The steel plate slammed down again.

A cold-sweat minute later, the grille opened once more. This time, the voice was female, and imperiously cold. "Tell your masters that we will consider their offer," it said. "We have certain business that must be finished before we can come to any more permanent decision."

A gloved hand reached around from behind the messenger and dropped a brass key in his lap. "You can see yourself out, I think," said the voice. The plate slammed down for a final time, and the man chained to the chair heard feet shuffling, doors opening and closing, and then silence.

When he managed to reach the key, unlock the chains and make his way out of the room, the messenger was surprised to find himself emerging from a door in Silent Court, three blocks down from the Greycloak perimeter around the Halls of Final Justice.


Wrekan Family to EBSA (ESP-D 4)

Anything to help tip the balance would be appreciated. This eternal stalemate is intolerable.


Lodstrom High Society Club to Kara Lythene [Private]

When Kara was done speaking, there was a long pause.

"An interesting view of things, to be sure," said the old man. "I'm not much for the political game--" several other members of the Club laughed at this-- "but it seems to me like something that could work. We'll think it over, yes? No reason to rush into things like this."


____________________

Later, after the Club has spoken to Henry Wallen...

"Ah, there you are!" The old man's eyes gleam with a disturbing amount of intelligence. "I don't think we'll be needing your assistance, young lady, though it was kind of you to offer it. Convey my compliments to your fellows down in Silent Court, won't you? We are going to have such fun with this new government you are creating."


Lodstrom High Society Club to Henry Wallen [Private]

There is a long silence.

"You've thought this through pretty well, haven't you?" said one of the members of the Club, an older gentleman with disturbingly intelligent eyes. "If you don't mind, we'd like to talk things over privately for a bit. This is a fairly large decision, as you are undoubtably aware. I'll walk you to the door."

The murmer of conversation begins as soon as they leave the room. The old man smiles as he hears it.

"They'll argue for a while, of course," he said, "and some will oppose it entirely. But I think you've made a good case, lad. Who knows, maybe this generation of House Wallen will amount to something greater than the last, eh?" His laugh said that he knew the joke wasn't funny, and wasn't meant to be. "The answer will be yes, of course. A political party headed by the scion of a disgraced house, a convenient figurehead that can both get them power and take the blame if something goes wrong? Oh yes, they won't be able to resist that." His smile could have cut glass. "Have a drink, Henry. You're going to need it for the days ahead."


Yellow Court to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 4)

We are Lords and Masters of our domain, vassal to no one. We doubt your ability to destroy the Crimson Court matches up with your ability to speak the words; they have resisted our best efforts to eradicate them, and stood tall through storms of fire and hail. Do not try to tempt us with false promises, Librarian.


Crimson Court to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 4)

No further response is required. Step to us and die.

[League]

Militia of Order and Justice

EBSA-Kara Lythene
We will join your government for one turn, if we feel that it is just we may become permanent members.

[NM020110]

The Librarian of the Elements
Esp-D: 4

To: The Yellow Court

The Crimson Court would appear to be disputing your claim rather well, lately. They've also done nothing but hurl insults at me, whilst you have maintained at least a semblance of politeness.

Since a pre-emptive deal appears to not be in the realm of consideration, I would propose a bet. You would seem to believe that the Crimson Court will survive conflict with me, while I believe that it will not. If you happen to be correct, then I'll leave you alone, most likely facing a Crimson Court that is weakened. If I am correct, then you will govern the neighborhood for me.

Would such a bet be acceptable?

[Zemalac]

Yellow Court to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 4)

We would hesitate to use the word "bet" with regards to this deal, as it is the opinion of the Court that your failure is inevitable. As such, you might imagine the confidence with which we accept your bargain. Let us see what your words are worth, Librarian. Let there be fire in the Black Streets.


Factories South: Union Throwdown Edition (ESP-D 2)

"Leave?" You could have cut the false incredulity with a knife. "Leave for where? This is where we live, and no straightass Union **** is going to kick us out."

OOC: Sorry I forgot to respond to this earlier.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

Lord Wallen to Lodstrom High Society Club [Private]
Henry Wallen smiled. "It's what I hoped. If we fail, I'll have a lot more to worry about than some nobles turning their backs at me."

He took a small glass, with light cider.

"I don't normally drink alcohol, but I think I'll share a toast. For New Nobility, my friend. Have a good evening, we'll talk in the morning"

To Bloodhaven
I am sending you the funds to start the new hospital wing. Will the promised sum sufice?

I am looking forward to a meeting in a close future to discuss matters of importance to the town.

Lord Henry Wallen

[Zemalac]

Turn 1 Results
July, 1032 DR

The Sav Altulas Standard, Your Daily Broadsheet
Setting the standard in clear printing, up-to-date news and knowledgeable reporting.
Sponsored by the Sav Altulas Bookbinder's Guild.

Fighting is reported underground in the Silver Way in Gilded. Exchange guards have been pulled back, bloodied and exhausted, to regroup around the Mint itself. Rumor has it that Sausage Guild tunnellers got into the lower vaults, but the state of the Exchange troops suggests something bigger is going on here.

The Wardens have cleared out the Guild's Watch Association completely from the Guild's Hand neighborhood. Those members of the GWA who weren't killed surrendered or joined up with the Wardens.

Warden troops are supporting the Gatekeeper's Guard in Gateway Milanus against the Milanus Protective Association, which has vowed to fight to the last man.

Warden troops marching into White Market to clear out Wayt Embler and his men suffered heavy casualties and were forced to retreat.

The Mercantile's Guild is now in full control of Traitor's Bridge.

The bandit gangs in the Traveler's Quarter have been completely destroyed, thanks to support offered to the Host's Watch by the Mercantile's Guild.

Swordsware is now controlled by House Laurier, as is the Pond. The Buronian and Lomaran merchant factions in the Pond are still acting independently, however.

Both the Militia of Order and Justice and House Laurier lent assistance to the Roper's Guard in the Chain Run in their attempts to drive out Decker's Dogs. The Dogs are all dead or fled, but the future of the neighborhood remains uncertain.

Rumor has it that the Militia of Order and Justice found something evil in the Fractures neighborhood while trying to clear the tunnels of monsters.

Pisser's Kingdom is now under the control of the Ram Rebellion's Revolutionary Army, amid accusations of inciting the Knifehands and Street Men to violence before storming the neighborhood.

The Tragic Court has taken up the cause of the Order of the Wren.

Gang members in the Pits are flocking to the banner of the Blackfist Brotherhood.

A charity event held by the United Alliance of Labor in the Mendicant's Field turned into a small war when necromancers and priests of Orsag the Guardian clashed over dinner.

Technist Guild troopers have taken up patrols in Little Veras. They control the streets, but the Foundry is still off doing their own thing.

It is said that the whores of the Painted Court owe Doctor Vassari a debt for certain medical assistance he has given them.

The Wrekan family in Heartsblood has begun an all-out assault on their hated enemies, the Hearthfeather family, thanks to the presence of EBSA Greycloaks defending their families and giving them encouragement.

Enraged soldiers from the Fist of Neposh are fighting in the streets with the Heartspear Secret Police in Orn Totre in the wake of a Heartspear assassination attempt on the Mouth of Neposh while he was speaking to the people of the neighborhood. Rumor has it that the Mouth is gravely wounded, and near death. Police bodies are piling up.

The Lodstrom High Society Club is now the Lodstrom High Society Party, determined to act for the political interests of the New Coin nobility, with Henry Wallen of House Wallen as its Patrician.

The smiths in the Smithway now serve the Silversmith's Guild.

Dignitaries in Millford's, Dappled Court and Hobbespot have all placed major orders with the Heladuit Court.

The Home Guard from Risen Court now patrols Old Face as well, and members of the noble families who sponsor them have been incorporated into the Esoteric Society of Gentleman Explorers.

The Crimson Court in Northside Black has been destroyed by fire from the sky, and the Yellow Court has sworn fealty to the Librarian of the Elements.

Silas Mok, the mad wizard of Southside Black, has fought the Librarian to a standstill.

An Imperial caravan rumored to be carrying weapons destined for the Wardens has been raided, and had much of its cargo stolen. The Imperial Trade Ministry has put out a bounty of [2 WEL] for the perpetrators.

The Bookbinder's Guild suspects that the Blackfist Brotherhood has access to a non-Guild printing press, and has posted a bounty of [1 WEL] to whoever finds and destroys it.

The Champions of Soverignity, a secret society long thought to be either a myth or extinct, have claimed control over the Hopers neighborhood in Runner's City.

Mail, Cover-Ups, and Other Hidden Happenings

ESP-D 4


Dear Sir,

I have recently begun having trouble with certain mercenary groups in the city that wish to take over our operation here. I would like to request more men and weapons for my personal use, so that I may further secure my control over the neighborhood that we have set up our shop in.

Your humble servant,
Wayt Embler


Dear Mr. Embler,

We are aware of the situation in Sav Altulas. While the chaos there is certainly a pressing matter, I have been informed by reliable sources that you have more than enough resources already at your disposal to handle the problem. Keep providing excellent results, my friend.

Regards,
Lucas Deplorian


Dear Sir,

While you may be aware of the situation, I do not think you are aware of the specifics, being in Veras as you are. Our authority here has been challenged--your authority, sir--and I cannot abide that. I am once again requesting further men and supplies, preferably professional Operators. I have equipped my men here with Operator equipment, but most of them do not have the same training and skill as true Verdan professionals.

Your humble servant,
Wayt Embler


Dear Mr. Embler,

I am afraid we have no in-house Operators available for supporting you at present time. If you still feel you require assistance, I will send Mr. Neilson, and give him leeway to do what he sees fit to remedy the situation in Sav Altulas, as at that point it would seem that you are incapable of handling it.

Regards,
Lucas Deplorian


Dear Sir,

That will not be necessary. Please do not send Neilson. I will deal with this problem personally and swiftly, of that you have my word.

Your humble servant,
Wayt Embler


ESP-D 5

United Alliance of Labor thugs, headed by Union Policy Enforcer Rocco Scagnetti, spent the entire duration of the UAL's charity dinner in the Mendicant's Field beating up members of the Factories South Union. This was then covered up by the UAL's Union Office.


Turn 2 Begins
August, 1032 DR
EoTs due Saturday, July 28

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild
morale:3

to silversmiths guild
well, our plans were a success. i believe i can contribute funds to the rebuilding of guilds row

to church of neposh
i am sorry i wasnt able to send any wealth your way recently, it was all needed elsewhere. i should be able to send you some by the end of the year

to imperial trade ministry
greetings. the mercantile's guild is now in control of the traitors bridge. we desire an increase in trade between the empire and sav altulas if you are willing.

could you also give the guild a small loan so we can organize an effort to rid the shattered lands of bandits? you will of course be paid back for this...plus interest

to GM
2 questions this time

1. are these bounties temp or perm wealth?

2. is the heladuit court mentioned in the beginning of turn post within the city or is it foreign in nature?

[NM020110]

The Librarian of the Elements
ESP-D: 5

To: Silas Mok

A letter is left behind when the Librarian exhausts the book of spells which she had brought with her.

Impressive. You have managed to match me at 1/5th power. For that, I will give you an opportunity to surrender.

You have two weeks to decide, then I will return, and see how you fair when I fight at half-power.



To: Inhabitants of the Scholar's Compass

It is said that one should avoid the streets of this neighborhood while the full moon shines. Why is this? Some form of lycanthrope, perhaps?

[HerbieRAI]

It would be a day to remember. Serina had been talking to Harvey about the church's aim. She didn't talk to him often, he was always in the background in the meetings, just giving input when the group seemed deadlocked. Currently, he seemed more concerned about making money than Neposh's glory, although the conversation was reassuring her otherwise.

The commotion came from upstairs and quickly moved down towards the two of them. Thats when she say the blood. It wasn't the first time the Mouth had been seriously injured, but it was the most deadly. He was unconcious, and Serina could sense the posion flooding through his veins. This would be a close call even with her intervention.

She had the men carrying the Mouth lay him on a table, and she immediatly began working. The next few moments were a blur. The wound was on the side of the neck, and although he didn't get the full dose of posion, it was enough to do its job. She began focusing her essance to heal the injury, and slowly the blood stopped spilling. That was the easy part, the posion would be a long game of cat and mouse.

Behind her, she heard Harvey's voice Is he going to make it?

I think so, but its still going to be a close call. This is what happens when you decide to charge the target instead of seeing what it is first.
He's always been a bit headstrong. I'll take over his post, and hopefully we wont lose too much ground in his absence.

Then at least listen to me. These enemies are not a god or army like the Mouth believed them to be, they are knavies. We know how they must be dealt with.
Harvey got a small grin on his face That gives me a few ideas.

Message to Hearthfeather Family (Desp 7)

It does take time for Miracles to work. Do you wish to become a true believer?

Message to Ram Revolution (Desp 7)

As you may have heard, there was an assassination attempt on one of our leaders. We ask that you give us military assistance against the secret police in the Orn Totre district.


Message to Annosus Merchant’s Society (Desp 7)

A robed man aproaches the Merchants society's doors, and wishes to speak with one of the head merchants.

As I'm sure you've heard, there as been an assassination attempt on one of our leaders. We are currently in the market for large quantity of weapons, and we believe your Society would have the connections to get us these. Are we correct in this thinking?

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

The King sat on his makeshift wooden throne, courtesy of the workers guild, at the head of a small table, around which sat his most trusted advisor's and friends. A few hours ago this room had been filled; as all the influential men in the district, and as many citizens as could fitted into the vast hall, gathered for his official coronation.

The king had put on his best smile, accepted the crown with dignity, showered the people with promises and gifts and gave his planned speech, speaking about the glorious future of the city. The people needed a King who seemed confident, capable and caring, so he wore that visage, as his training had taught him.

The king would not lie to his friends however, so as he sat on his throne, listening to the reports of death and violence across the city, their was a audible quaver to his voice, a slight shiver to his hands.

"Well, that's the last of the reports. Your orders my liege?"

"I.... I...don't know. I don't think I can do this."

The King reached for his crown. The commander of the Champions; seated at the Kings side, grabbed his hand, stopping him in his tracks.

"James? What are you doing?"

King james replied emphatically. "How many lives rest in my hands? I can't do this Bran. I can't rule a city. I'll just get people killed"

"The people are leaderless, they need their king to restore order."

"I can't do it. look at me!" James stood up, tears running down his face. "I'm breaking up and we haven't even done anything yet"

James moved to turn away, but Brannigan grabbed his arm, and embraced him, as a father does his son. After a few seconds, he released the boy slowly.

"Thanks". James wiped the tears away from his eyes.

"I have faith in you James. I trained you for this day, but training can't make a great king. Your fear is a sign of your compassion. You care for the people of this city, more than any other man I know. Your fear will keep you from making a decision, until you're sure it's the right one."

"I ... don't know. What if things just get worse? I don't know how much death I can take."

"Don't worry about what the future may bring. Concentrate on the now. We'll face this together, one day at a time"

The King took a moment to gather himself, and sat back on his throne.

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Mercantile Guild
We apologize, but the current state of...war in Gilded means that the Guild would like to delay such a project until we can be assured that whatever we do won't be subsequently torn down.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Sausage Guild

There is a considerable amount of activity around the gates of the Bunkers, and eventually a line of carts leave the Sausage Guild compound. Moving into the southernmost portion of Dovel they stop in a clean well patrolled square halfway between the Bunkers and Silver Way. Hopping down from the carts the guild members begin unloading. At first the residents are horrified at the prospect of the Sausage Guild filling their square with meat, but disgust soon turns to avarice as the Sausage Guild members unload not meat, but gold. Soon a towering stack of gold bars and chests filled with gold coins has been amassed in the center of the square.

Their work complete the guild members turn the carts back around, and without a word head back to the Bunkers.

To the Exchange
As I said before we do not concern ourselves with the material pursuits. We do not chase the cold metal that the rest of the city so adores. For us it is merely a means to an end. And as proof of this we have placed all the gold from your vaults [1 Wealth] in Dovel. Reclaim it if you wish. We are sure that the residents of Dovel would not mind claiming it if you do not.

And perhaps now that we have proven, both our determination, and our lack of interest in the things you make a business of we can negotiate an agreement.

-Bloodhand

[Zemalac]

To oblivion6 [Private]

1. Temporary Wealth.

2. The Heladuit Court is a player faction located in the Tailorway neighborhood of the Heavensgate district. You can read more about them here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=13566116&postcount=27).

3. You do not have the Imperial Contacts trait; as such, your message to the Trade Ministry will receive a response during EoT, to account for travel time.


Silas Mok to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 4)

Do not condescend to me, witch. I am Silas Mok, and I cannot die.


Scholar's Compass to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 2)

Not really sure what you're talking about, milady. Nothing happens 'round here on the full moon that I'm aware of.


Hearthfeather Family to Church of Neposh (ESP-D 4)

At this point, we really need a miracle. If you can help us against the bastard Wrekans, we will give you all the funds we can.


Annosus Merchants Society to Church of Neposh (ESP-D 5)

You are indeed correct in that assumption. How large a purchase are we looking at here? We can deliver [+ MIL] for every [++++ WEL].

[Imperial Psycho]

Unbeknownst to all present, the Wren watched as the boy king was crowned in the Runner's City. The ceremony was meagre, and surprisingly brief, though the speech of the king had its moments. He jostled and shuffled to get a better view of James, careful not to let his hood slip from his face. His fist clenched in its black glove as he saw the face of the boy, pretending not to be scared or nervous. He was too young! They had shoved the child onto the stage the moment he was old enough not to look too much a fool. He would have to speak to the boy king in person to be sure, of course, but the city could not wait for some whelp to grow up while people died. The Wren stormed out of the ceremony, signalling for his men to follow.

They retired to the Tragic Court, where his Army of Dreamers lay.

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

To House Laurier [4]
"I offer my most gracious greetings to House Laurier and all it's members. I am King James I, true heir to this great city. I would like to thank you for the good work you have done, restoring order to the district of Swordsware."

"Your house clearly cares for the well-being of the populace, so I would like to propose an alliance, that no blood might be shed wastefully in conflict between us."

To the Ram Revolution [4]
"I offer my most humble greetings to your people, and thanks for restoring order to the district of Pisser's Kingdom."

"I would like to discuss how far you are willing to compromise, to meet your factions goals. I see no reason the people of this kingdom should not be given more power and responsibility in my government, once I rise to the throne.

To the Militia of Order and Justice. [4]
"I offer my most appreciative greetings to you, High Watchmen Kos, and the Militia you lead. I am King James I of Talidor, heir to the throne of this city."

"Your actions have shown you honestly care for the people of this city, and so I would like to propose an alliance, that we might restore order and happiness to the city, with no blood unnecessarily shed."

To the Executive Bureaucracy of Sav Altulas [4]
"Greetings. I am King James I, heir to the throne of this city. I would like to begin discussions, that we and the other noble factions of this city might reforge the government and restore order to city and kingdom."


To Bloodhaven [4]
"I offer my gracious greetings to you, Dr. Morden Vassari. I am King James I, heir to the throne of Talidor."

"You have shown yourself as a man committed to doing good, so I would like to propose an alliance between our factions. Together we might restore order to the city, and ensure peace and prosperity for the populace."

[Thelonius]

Bloodhaven Hospital

Several burly men were lounging in a corridor. In the two rooms next to them, about a dozen of gang members were recovering from their knife fight, just a night earlier.

''I wish that new wing was already completed. Placing them so close to each other. If Dobins and his men weren’t here I’d fear they’ll go for each other again'' muttered one of the doctors.

''Should we actually treat their sort? I think the faster they send each other to graves, the better'' replied his colleague, making sure his voice didn’t carry.

Green Operating Room

''As you can see the inflammation here is the cause of the pain. It would be possible to remove it, without impairing the functioning of the body.'' Vassari instructed, as a cadre of men and women, wearing the white, surrounded the operating table. A Hand, brought doctor boiled scalpel as he leaned over the woman. ''Please a bit of room. You can follow the operation by looking at the mirrors placed on the celling.''

Dr. Vassari’s Personal Cabinet

Morden was relaxing with a glass of sherbet, picking exotic fruits from a bowl on his table. He non-consciously checked, if their skin was broken, before peeling it off, an old habit. His thoughts wandered. The city was boiling with fights and turf wars. At first he was surpised to see so few patients in the hospital, before he realized that making way to him would probably be a dangerous affair, seeing the fighting on the streets. Besides, Bloodhaven hasn’t yet operated for long and many people either didn’t know or weren’t certain of its reputation.

City’s Chief Health Administrator, Morden Vassari, A Report to EBSA [5]

''I would like to inform you, that the hygienic standards in the preparation of food in the city a quite excellent, courtesy of Sausage Guild and Dover’s Association. I have written a document confirming it, so you can issue an official commendation for their work to keep the city fed and healthy.''

''There is an issue with water contamination in the Bunkers, which I will seek to address.''

''If you could arrange for an inspection office in the Traitor’s Bridge and Underdocks, I can place there my men to watch for the possibility of exotic diseases entering the city.''

''I would also recommend tightening of the work safety regulations in the Smokeyards as the number of accidents from machinery is quite alarming and I believe Technist Guild is experimenting with explosive materials, due to a high number of victims with burns.''


Dr. Morden Vassari to Sausage Guild, Copy of the Letter to EBSA [6]

''I would like to inform you, that signs of water contamination have been detected in the wells in your territory. I would appreciate, if you could work to find the source of this malady and prevent further spoilage, while I work on the formula to cleanse the already affected water sources.''

Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Morden Vassari


A Letter to King James I [4]

''Your Majesty''

''I am of course quite interested in peace and order, but I would like to know, what you mean by an alliance? I run a hospital, that provides treatments to the patients, an institution, that while vital to the health of the city, has neither legitimate authority over the city bureaucracy nor loyal legion of soldiers to quell the unrest.''

Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Morden Vassari

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution

TO: Church of Neposh (D ESP 7)

Firstly, extend our deepest hopes for a swift recovery to the Mouth of Neposh, as well as any others who were harmed in the attack. Secondly, we will begin troop movements today, and they should be there when you begin your attack on Orn Totre.
That will be at the end of this turn, correct?

Also, any thoughts on the recently discovered heir to the throne?


TO: Champions of Sovereignty (D ESP 4)

The idea that the old royal house would be re-found was not something I was expecting. It will require some thinking, and talking with others who are helping to set up our new government, before I can say affirmatively where we stand with regards to a new king. That being said, if you are as open for change and tolerance as you say, there should be no problem with our working together.

I thoroughly enjoyed the coronation, by the way.
-The Ram


TO: EBSA (D ESP 5.5)

What are your thoughts on the recently discovered heir to the throne, and it's possible influence on our plans? I will remind you, just to be safe, that there is much more need for a bureaucracy in a republic than a monarchy


TO: Blackfist Brotherhood (D ESP 6)

Stay out of Runner's City. Why don't you go play in Fat Tippist or Old Town.

This is your only warning
-The Ram

[HerbieRAI]

Church of Neposh to Hearthfeather Family (Desp 4)

And we shall try to make that miracle come true. We will need to know as much as you do. Your current military's strength, how large your coffers are, any commanders at your disposal, and any information you have on the Wrekan's forces. You can join us to the Underchurch if you wish to talk more privately.

Edited to reply to Ram Revolution

Message to Ram Revolution

We thank you for your assistance. We haven't given much thought to this "Heir" with the recent tragedy. The church doesn't give much credit to inheriters, since we believe you must earn respect. Something that this "king" has yet to do.

[Eldan]

Blackfist Brotherhood to Ram Revolution [6]


We are not going anywhere. People come to us. If people in Runner's City want to join the real revolution, we are not stopping them.

After all, not everyone wants to join a revolution ready to sell the city's religious freedom less than a week after it began.

[Imperial Psycho]

The Order of the Wren Morale: 5

To the Champions of Sovereignty
Greetings, claimant to the throne.

I find myself interested in your cause, and see the possibility of co-operation between us. Perhaps you would allow me to meet and speak with your king?I will submit to any security checks that you desire, if it will make you feel safer.

The Wren.

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution

TO: Blackfist Brotherhood (D ESP 6)

Firstly, declaring a national religion in no way prevents the freedom of religion. It simply states which the national government will give funding too. Secondly, coming from someone who consorts with murderers and anarchists (very stable form of government there), I find your critiques of my own plans laughable at best. Why don't you and the rest of your "hand" go back to your University and discuss impossible political schemes some more, and let the real men run the city?


TO: Church of Neposh (D ESP 7)

It has recently come to my attention that others - specifically those anarchists the "Blackfist Brotherhood" - have been reading our messages. I plan to start a counter espionage movement ASAP, I would suggest you do the same.

[Imperial Psycho]

The Order of the Wren Morale: 5

To the Blackfist Brotherhood
I am aware of the exchanges between your organisation and the Ram Revolution, and have been following them with interest. I find that I concur with your side of the argument, and I believe the Ram has gotten the scent of power, and has become as double-dealing and corrupt as any of those he wishes to replace.

Perhaps we can find common cause.

The Wren.

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Underwood Family
Greetings from the Silversmith's Guild. We have seen the conflict between you and and the Silviat family. Such a conflict near ourselves is worrisome, and we wonder if you would be interested in cooperating with us to finally drive out the Silviat family. Though we don't have much mil to spare, we could use our contacts to find out the Silviats' plans to give you the needed advantage.

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

To Morden Vassari [4]
"Doctor."

"Perhaps the term 'alliance' is not a suitable one. What I really mean is mutual protection from threats, free exchange of important information, co-operation on projects where possible, and official support of each others actions."

"King James I"

To the Ram Revolution [4]
"I would be grateful if you could tell me the names of those who work with you towards order in the city. Regardless of any political issues that may arise in the future, the people stand to benefit if we all work together."

"Thank you."
- King James I

To the Order of the Wren [4]
Greetings, Wren

Thank you for your interest. I would be glad to meet with anyone who fights for the good of this cities populace.

King James I

[Eldan]

Blackfist Brotherhood

To the Order of the Wren [5]:

Perhaps we can, perhaps we can.
After all, your group might have ideas that we do not find ourselves disagreeing too much with, and a similar clientèle.

One question, however remains: what do you people actually want?

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution

TO: Champions of Sovereignty (D ESP 4)

You know what? King or not, you seem to be more honorable than anyone else in Runner's Kingdom. You want to talk to the EBSA and the Church of Neposh. If you plan on surviving long enough to try to find a place in the new government, however, you may want to help the Revolution against the anarchist Blackfists, and their cronies in the Order of the Wren. I fear that they are preparing to strike at my people, and you would almost certainly be next. Keep in mind that they have almost certainly been reading our messages as well, so you couldn't claim neutrality, since you clearly came and contacted me.


TO: Technists Guild (D ESP 4)

I'm sure that those Anarchists in the North Factories have been getting annoying yes? Could I count on your help if they move aginst me? I doubt they can protect their selves from both of us at once, but may be able to destroy us, and then come after you. It's a near certainty that they know we have been collaborating, since they have apparently read every other message that the revolution has sent out, so it is for your safety as well.


TO: UAL (D ESP 2)

I'm sure that those Anarchists in the North Factories have been getting annoying yes? Could I count on your help if they move aginst me? I doubt they can protect their selves from both of us at once, but may be able to destroy us, and then come after you. It's a near certainty that they know we have been collaborating, since they have apparently read every other message that the revolution has sent out, so it is for your safety as well.

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild
morale:3

to silversmiths guild
okay, we shall wait then. is there anything we can do to help?

to church of neposh
we understand you are looking for large amounts of weaponry. we can beat any price the merchants society has offered you

to bloodhaven
word has reached my ears of your deeds. if you are interested, i could offer you a large loan to help you expand your hospital

[HerbieRAI]

Church of Neposh

To Ram Revolution (Desp 7)

People reading our messages is commonplace these days with so many nefarious factions about. I do not wish to speak ill of them, but the ESBA is probably monitoring our converstation as well, along with who knows how many others. To try to defend against it is near impossible and we believe it is better to have a strong fist than a large ear.


To Mercantiles Guild (Desp 3)

I have no problem buying weapons from you and would slightly prefer it; what deal can you make? (the deal was WEL for MIL)

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

To the Ram Revolution [4]
"I do not know the Order of Wren, or the Blackfists. I will be wary, but listen to what they have to say. I hope that conflict is not necessary, but if it is I will do my best to stand with the righteous side."

"Can you tell me for what reason you distrust the Wren's and Blackfist? Also, I will say truthfully that I am concerned by the Church's stance towards non-belivers. They seem intolerant. What makes you sure they have the people's interests at heart?"

To the Drovers of the Stockyards [4]
"Greetings. I am King James I, rightful heir to the throne of this city."

"I understand your organisations do not trust each other, but your conflict is endangering the people of the Stockyards. Without a unified response from all of you, criminal organisations will rise up, and cause havoc in the district. With your permission, I would like to help meditate the problem between your associations, so that order can be restored."

[Imperial Psycho]

The Order of the Wren Morale: 5

To the Blackfist Brotherhood
We are not anarchists, as you are, we will admit. The goals of the Wren are fairness, equality, and justice. The system of government, and who, the whats, and the whys, are secondary to this. Like you, our supporters are the downtrodden, because the people who have the least benefit the most from equality.

I do not believe our ideologies match, so to speak. If they did, we would not be two organisations. But, I believe we can benefit from an alliance, of sorts.


To the Champions of Sovereignty [PM]
The Wren arrives at the makeshift HQ of the 'King' with half a dozen men, rakish sorts in tattered cloaks. He himself wears an immaculate tailored doublet, decorated with a Wren in gold thread. On his face he wears a grinning mask, like those worn in the plays. "Greetings, Champions" The Wren said, his voice thick with amusement. "I am here to see your King. I apologise for the false face, but my hood would not be appropriate attire for a meeting with royalty, and you are not ready yet to know my face."

[oblivion6]

mercantiles guild

to church of neposh
i believe the merchants society offered 1 MIL for 4 wealth? i can offer 1 MIL for 3 wealth, which i believe is a fair deal

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution

TO: Champions of Sovereignty (D ESP 4)

The church is simply one of those who are helping to rebuild society. While we agree that they can be intolerant, and that this is not a trait wanted in a church, they are a major faction in the city, and will help gain support from their followers across the city, in places where the group of rabble I control could not go. It is, like many alliances in the city, one of necessity rather than want. I doubt they have much love for us either.
As to the distrust, I have been wary of the Wren since he first sprang up in Castaways. The Blackfists I originally didn't trust due to their anarchists agenda (which, as a supporter of a republic, is clearly against our own agenda). The Blackfists have been expanding in our direction, and recently began talking to Wren as well, in a way that makes me fear for the safety of my people.
I noticed that you as well have been speaking to the Wren. They seem reasonable, or at least more so than the anarchists. Perhaps you can convince them that an alliance with anarchists is sure to be against the best interest of anyone interested in a stable society. Otherwise, I fear I may soon be set upon from multiple fronts.

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Mercantile Guild
Well, I guess you could try building contacts in that neighbourhood to aid in the eventual restoration.

[Eldan]

Blackfist Brotherhood to the Order of the Wren

These ideologies are close enough, for now, to work together. Justice is not a thing that is often achieved in any way other than by accident, as far as we see, and life is also very rarely fair. But we are always ready to help those who can not fight for themselves.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To King James I
Your Majesty, we send you our regards.

I'm Lord Henry Wallen, Patrician of the Lodstrom society Party.
We are a union of nobles who seek to restore order in the city.

You seem to be too close to certain dangerous elements, but I'm sure you'll manage. You should stay close to your people.

Should you need any help, consider us your allies.

Lord Henry Wallen

To EBSA
Is the meeting coming down now? We are ready to attend.
Lord Henry Wallen

To Gentlemen's society.
Right now, the game between nobles has come down to us. I think we should work to divide the rest of the noble neighbourhoods between us.

There are two territories we should work with: The Palace and Dai.
The one who controlled the palace would have a great influence power, but the other one would get the last territory in our district.

What do you think we should do? I'd prefer to take control over Dai.

I'd advise you to head into Dogma, if you can. If that wizard takes the rest of the Magical District, we could all be in bad troubles.

To Party Council [PM]
In the Party's first congress, the situation is tense. Many members dislike each other, but they still hold a clear line of thought. they lake each other more than they like the rest.

"Milords, the limits of our party's range are close. If we build a Party House in Dai, we'll be out of small noble families to atract.
The Families in Old Face and the Risen Court are older, it will be harder to negotiate with them.

On the other hand, many families in Millford are respectable, and we could offer them a higher place in society.

What does the Council think? Should we limit our party to nobility or open it to those we deem worthy of being members?

I, for one, would like to extend our reach in their direction. But I will heed the Council's authority in this.

On other matters, I thank all members for their dedication towards the party's reputation improvement. If we keep working, we will see results soon enough."

[Grimsage Matt]

To the Rams
We'll stand with you, though we will admit to being much better on the defensive then the offensive.

On the Recent Explosions
Recently, we of the Technists guild have been witnessed to cause several explosions. We would like to reassure everyone that the research is related to our ongoing airship plans, and involves Lighter then Air gasses. We'll be improving safety regulations in the coming weeks.

[Nyrt]

To House Wallen[5]
Dai? I had thought nothing of it. I see no reason to trouble yourself with our society's expansion. We will care for our own.

OOC: Uh, Lodstrom is not actually adjacent to Daisong Palace; if you tried to take it you'd be at a penalty anyway.

Lord Jove, To BlackJack Boys [5?]
Sirs,

As I have watched for the last month, it has come to my attention that the university, which was once a noble establishment devoted to the betterment of the world and the spreading of knowledge, has become openly hostile and is using it's knowledge of magic to lay claim to the surrounding area. As you are adept at defending from magical assault and you occupy one of the few neighborhoods between the nobility in the Sky district and this threat to the public well-being, I would like to offer my support and funding for the betterment of your organisation.

As you are a vital establishment protecting us from the tragically fallen menace that the University has become, I and several other noble households would like to provide support for your organisation, both financially and politically, so that your vigilance may be rewarded.



Aberham Pontiss, To Bookbinder's Guild [5?]
Sirs

I have always had an interest in books and print, and have recently taken an interest in the spreading of news. Would it be possible for me to visit and see for myself the process by which the The Sav Altulas Standard is run?

Sincerely,
Aberham Pontiss

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution

TO: Technist Guild (D ESP 4)

Don't worry, either nothing will happen, or the majority of their forces will be south, leaving you free to take the northern factories. That would surely help with your dirigible project. At worst, nothing happens, and at best you gain a territory.

Good luck with your inventions, and I hope the recent explosions didn't harm anyone too severely.

[Zemalac]

Margaret Hearthfeather to Church of Neposh [Private]

An old woman arrives at the Underchurch, surrounded by Hearthfeather family guards. This is what she tells you.

The Greycloaks guarding the Wrekan estates are a force of [+++ MIL]. The Wrekans actually attacking the Hearthfeathers are more in number, but less well trained, giving them a similar [+++ MIL]. The Hearthfeathers had the same last month, but most of their guards have been killed, giving them [+ MIL]. The old woman lays this out for you very plainly, obviously desperate for assistance.


Underwood Family to Silversmith's Guild (ESP-D 4)

We have no interest in driving out the Silviat Family--our relationship with them is quite cordial, with the obvious exception of the Games, which can be delightfully brutal.


Drover's Associations to Champions of Sovereignty (ESP-D 2)

If ye like. Be warned, though, the feuds here run deep, and yer as like to get yerself lost in 'em as ye are to help things any.


Party Meeting (House Wallen) (Private)

"I don't like it. Giving Heavensgate people pretensions of nobility can't end well, in my opinion. But your right in that Old Face and Risen Court won't join us, and old Founder is too fond of his Society to join any other party. I'd suggest we not allow the common folk on the council, myself, but I can't see any way around getting them to support our causes."


Blackjack Boys to Lord Jove (ESP-D 5)

Aye milord, that's right kind of you. We've been keeping an eye on old Daimot, never you fear. Though at the moment we've got a bit more of a problem with MU Sifters trying to sneak through the neighborhood. Damn mages have never heard of Traitor's Bridge, apparently.


Bookbinder's Guild to Aberham Pontiss (ESP-D 4)

Certainly, sir. We would be honored to host such a noble guest as yourself.

[NM020110]

The Librarian of the Elements
Esp-D: 5

To: Silas Mok [Esp-D 4]

Very well, then. I shall crush you as was previously indicated.


To: Scholar's Compass [Esp-D 2]

Very well, then. Surely you won't mind if a few of my...servants were to investigate the rumors?


To: Zemalac [Esp-D ∞]

Could I please get a description of the major factions within the Dogma?

[Thelonius]

Letter to King James I [4]

Your Majesty

I can hardly provide any protection to you, as again I repeat myself, Bloodheaven isn’t a militant order. I’m prepared to exchange information, though I will not share information on my patients or anything told me in confidence, and we certainly can work on joint projects that benefit the city. As for official support of each other’s actions, I would rather avoid getting too involved in the politics, although I have no doubts, I would not be able to stay out of them completely. You can expect me to follow my conscious in what I support and what I decry, rather than political expediency.

Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Morden Vassari


Letter to Mercantile Guild [3]

To Representative of the Mercantile Guild,

I would be interested in securing a loan to expand my hospital, but can you inform me of its terms. I take a long view in the financial matters and my policy was always to avoid entangling myself in obligations today, I’d be hard pressed to meet tomorrow.

Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Morden Vassari


To GM Only

What is the reputation of the Peacocks? I mean they are criminals (and so is 50% of the city powers), but how ''evil'' are they in their practices and are there lines they won't cross?

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

House Wallen, D-Esp 8

To House Orthax
Greetings, Milord. I would like to ask you for an audience to discuss important matters.

Lord Henry Wallen, Patrician.


To House Beteoui
Greetings, Milord. I would like to ask you for an audience to discuss important matters.

Lord Henry Wallen, Patrician.


To the Dwimmercant Families:
Greetings. I would like to ask you for an audience to discuss important matters.

Lord Henry Wallen, Patrician.


To Party Congress [PM]
I understand, and partially agree. I'll think about a way around that.

On other plans; How would our unmarried party members feel about marrying into bigger families?
That would increase our foothold in those neighbourhoods.

Just throwing expansion ideas here, no need to feel attacked.

To Doctor Vassari
My dear doctor, we must meet soon to discuss important matters about city health.

Lord Henry Wallen

Heladuit Court
Greetings. As Patrician of Lodstrom Party, I wold like to extend an offer for a strategic alliance, and ask for an audience with one of my associates.

Lord Henry Wallen

[Thelonius]

Bloodhaven

Vassari read the letter from Lord Wallen and quickly composed an answer:

Your grace,

I can schedule a meeting this evening and use this occasion to bring you a report on the construction of the new hospital wing.’’

Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Morden Vassari

[HerbieRAI]

Church of Neposh

Message to the Silver smiths guild

We are currently looking to purchase a large order of weapons. We are looking for the best deal in town, and as you are one of the best smiths it was a natural we come to you. What would you charge for these weaopns?
(I pay you WEL for MIL)


Meeting with Margaret Hearthfeather (Private)

We also need your current economic standing.

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Church of Neposh
We apologize, but we deign not to craft weapons for battle -- we prefer the crafting of more elegant designs. My apologies once again.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

Lord Wallen - Dr Vassari [PM]
Lord Wallen attended the meeting, and entered the Doctor's cabinet. He liked the looks of it.

"My dear doctor, we finally meet" He said while sitting down.
"How is the hospital wing going? We must speak of the city's situation."

[Thelonius]

Lord Wallen/Dr. Vassari [PM]

Dr. Vassari, wearing a clean suit, gloves and crisply fresh bandages concealing his face gave Lord Wallen a courtly bow.

''I’m glad to meet your grace as well. You donation was most welcome and the workers promise to finish it in the next month. I’m training a cadre of the new doctors to operate there. Honestly, I didn't thing you'd find time to personally visit me, with everything going in the city. Certainly, your time must be quite expensive these days.''

Vassari offers a bowl of fresh fruit to his guest. ''Please help yourself. They are quite fresh and beneficial for your health. I’d offer you some liquor, but as a rule I don’t keep any at work and I haven’t thought to bring a bottle for our meeting.''

As Lord Wallen settles himself into a comfortable chair, Doctor contiues. ''So what exactly did you wish to discuss about the situation in the city?'' His eyes, the one feature of his face visible to his guest grow serious.

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

to doctor vasiri
i believe our terms are quite reasonable. i am prepared to send you a shipment of [6 wealth] this turn, to be paid back over 2 turns. every turn its late will result in a [1 wealth] interest fee. i am prepared to haggle of course

also as a gesture of good faith, i will be sending you [4 wealth] free of charge next turn.

to technists guild
i would like to meet with you privately to discuss business

[Zemalac]

Silas Mok to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 4)

Fool. You could not defeat me during out last battle; how do you hope to defeat me now? Your arrogance is unfounded and unwarranted.

Should you choose to continue to fight me, however, and should by some bizarre coincidence you actually defeat me, know that I have friends in far places who are much more powerful than you. What you did to the Crimson Court was impressive, yes, but what they might do to you would shake you to your bones.


Scholar's Compass to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 2)

'Course not, milady, so long as they don't get too intrusive. We're a private people hereabouts.


To NM020110 [Private]

Calling any of the factions within Dogma "major" is giving them far too much credit. Currently, the Worshipful Society of the Spinning Globe is ahead of the pack, but they could be overtaken at any moment by the Golden Sons of God, the Red Hand, the Black Hand, the White Hand, the Order of Blind Vengeance, the Death-Cult of Duvan Ku, the Avadin Heresy, the servants of the Imperial Saint of Plenty (or Saint of Chains, Saint of Blood, Saint of Tyrants, or Saint of Hope), the Maltin Insurgency, the small but very determined chapel to the Imperial Mother Church, the Cult of the Worldbreaker, the Nine Gods' Chosen, or any of the dozen others.


To Thelonius [Private]

The Peacocks have a bit of an odd reputation. Everyone likes them, and when they're breaking the law they make a point of doing it in a way that no one gets hurt. They take care of their girls. However, no one really wants to be associated with them because of what they do, and they have a tendency towards extreme and occasionally lethal sarcasm when they think someone is disrespecting them.


House Orthax to House Wallen (ESP-D 4)

Certainly. How does lunch sound?

-Louis Orthax


House Beteoui to House Wallen (ESP-D 4)

Of course! I look forward to speaking with you.

-Isabella Erhest Beteoui III


The Dwimmercant Families to House Wallen (ESP-D 8)

We know what you're after, lad. Let's talk. Might be we can come to a mutually beneficial arrangement, aye?


Party Congress (House Wallen)(Private)

Political marriages are the bread and butter of the nobility. The younger members of the Party don't look happy about it, but the parents have a calculating look in their eyes.

[Grimsage Matt]

Technists Guild

To the mercantile's guild
Sure, would a meeting in my workshop be alright?

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

technists guild[PM]
i was curious as too if you could begin research into large scale blackpowder weapons. i am willing to pay you handsomely when the research is finished of course

[Greystone]

The EBSA, Defense 5

Announcements to all Factions

-Transcript from the Press Briefing done by Anala Weaver

This week delegates from every faction in the city is invited to discuss the future of the cities government. Every faction is aloud to send up to three representatives, with two bodyguards each. All representatives and guards will be searched for weapons that cause wide damage- magical or technological bombs and the like. If you have any special requirements, please let us know before coming to the conference. The conference will be held in the Spire Room of the Halls of Final Justice.

UAL
She turns, raising an eyebrow in apparent vague confusion "What? We'd be going out to get something to drink?"

'Job fair'- GM
At the voice heard at the fair, whoever hears it (Probably the courier, who I shall name James Kakanon) nods and whispers "Hurry sir"

Wreken Family
So far things are going very well, do you have any more plans to end the conflict once and for all?

Militia of Order and Justice
Could you also send, perhaps, soldiers to up security for the conference?

Champions of Sovereignty
We would be of service to any legitimate government that is established. To sell your case to the factions of the city, send a representative or come yourself to the conference. There is much talk of a hybrid government- with a civilian elected legislature, and a noble overview- with perhaps a shared executive branch. Does this sound like something you could compromise to?

Response to Morden Vassari
Thank you for the report, we shall keep it in mind when reviewing the possible changes to outlines and regulations the city works under.

Ram Revolution
We will support whatever government is placed in control. Come to the conference and argue your case, as we prefer a democratic option as well. Be ready to compromise/

Lord Wallen
Send your representative at any time.

[oblivion6]

open announcement
the trader, head of the famed mercantil's guild will attened the conference

[Eldan]

The Blackhand Brotherhood

"Well, well, well. The vultures are gathering to clean each other's feathers. How could we possibly miss that, ey?"

[Nyrt]

Lords Wulbach, Holfeather, and Gantris will be attending. Lord Founder regrets that he will not be able to attend.

[edit]
Aberham Pontiss, to bookbinder's guild [pm]
"Ah, you would be [ooc: I don't actually know this guy's name, but I assume Aberham would]? I am fascinated to see the workings of the city's premier source of news, If you would," Aberham says, hanging up his coat and handing his elegant cane off to a servant to be kept in his coach as he steps into the room.

[League]

Militia of Order and Justice
D. Esp: 8

The Champions of Sovereignty
We are glad to see more people in this city are concerned about justice. We can join your alliance, but we reserve the right to leave at any point if we feel justice has been broken.

Technists Guild
How is the work on the printing press going? We would like to have it in a turn or two.

EBSA
Perhaps. If every faction does send a representative, then this may be too big a job for us. Too tell the truth, there are other needs for out watchmen.

[Thelonius]

A letter to Mercantile Guild [4]

To Mercantile Guild Representative

Your conditions appear to be fair. I’ll take the loan and expect your gracious gift in the coming weeks.

Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Vassari


Dr. Vassari to Peacocks [6?]

To the Masters of the Painted Court,

Greetings,

I would like to discuss with you an issue about the opium dens in the Elfwatch. As you know, they are currently under the control of three competing gangs. Under them the opium is sold as a cheap drug, associated with knifings and crippling addiction*. I believe you could run the place with more class, both in terms of presentation and quality, making it into a recreational drug to give pleasure to the reasonably wealthy.

I’d be willing to provide you with discreet assistance to help you secure the control over the Elfwatch, if you would promise to follow certain regulations in the production and sale of opium, that will minimize the health risk it poses and its effects on the welfare of the users. This would have the advantage of turning the main visitors of the opium dens from the desperate junkies to the long-term, healthy clients, who are able to keep their jobs and thus their pockets full with coin to pay the premium on the product.

[*I’m going to assume that’s how the opium dens are run. If they aren’t I’ll change my message.]

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To EBSA
Lord Wallen will attend, joined by some Party representatives. The bodyguards will be Wallen men, and they will be well armed, but they will not take any forbidden weapons into the Palace.

The Party offers ++ Mil to help guard the meeting; I-d perfer to guard the northern entrances and form a perimeter. I ask permission to leave a small trail of agents between the castle and my Gleamers to help me and my friends get away should be any troubles.

Party Congress
Now now, don't look so unhappy, people.
This is the policy I will set for political marriages: Every member who likes someone of a good-positioned family should come forward, and he shall get any help he needs to marry her/him.

I'm thinking of setting an example there myself.


But we should start to think to create a commoner branch for the party. If the new government has democratic elements, it will be important to have one.

And please, take into account that I'm NOT stating my will here. I believe that in the current state of affairs, it cannot be avoided.
It's a constitutional monarchy, a democracy, or civil war.
And I will plan for the three.

Regarding civil war; my Guard is the best trained force we have. I propose this: We will join all our guards. Yours will retain tehir commanders; but will be trained under my guards since they will be more experienced.

I must leave now to take care of other meetings, that have already been dscussed here.

Lord Wallen/Dr. Vassari [PM]
Lord Wallen tasted the fruit, and took a pause to respond to the doctor:
"I'm happy to hear that the Hospital works are going well."

He put the fruit down.

"To be honest, I'm worried about the civil war that is probably coming. I don't care for blood, but I don't know if it can be avoided.
That's the reason I haev to go to the New Government meeting.

I understand that you don't want to risk it going there: You have a neutral position, and would be unwise to atract the anarchists attention.

But I must ask you. What sort of government would you support? Do you think is there any way to stop the bloodshed?

I think it would be important to have an influential man like you working along the commoners."


To House Orthax [PM]
Lord Wallen sat with the House Orthax representative. It was a quiet, nice lunch.
After lunch, Wallen decided to go into the matter.

"Milord, as you know, me and some friends have formed a political party. I wanted to ask you what do you think about that, and if you would accept to be a member.
I was planning to ask House Beteoui and the Dwimmercant families as well. I realize you must have some troubles between you, but maybe they are troubles that can be negotiated."

To House Beteoui [PM]
"Milady, glad to make your acquaintance. I'll be honest: Me and my friends, the Lodstrom High Society Party, want to open a new Party House in this neighbourhood.
Your family is one of the most respected families here, and we would be happy to have you as a member. We would be happy to have House Beteoui and the Dwimmercant families as well, but that depends on the possibility to succesfully resolve any troubles or enmities that exist between you. In that, all of you have my support."


To the Dwimmercant Families [PM]
Lord Wallen was wary of the Dwimmercant families. Anyone good enough to know what he was up to was good. More reason to get them on his good side.
He let several party members and Ser Wallenstein where he was going, and prepared his best spells.
Granted, 2 Magic Missiles and Feather Fall was not much of a spellbook, but it was something.

He saluted the family members, and sat down for the meeting.

"Good evening, gentlemen. I was fascinated by your response. What am I going to propose?"
He smiled.
"You already know.
I'll be brief. Is there any way to get you to be members? Alone you are smart, but you can't do much against the wave that is coming our way.

In union there is force. We should work together.

A new Party house, an alliance with your so-called rivals (Who may be your rivals in the control of the neighbourhood; but your allies if you look at the bigger picture).
That is my plan. What is yours?"

[Eldan]

Blackfist Brotherhood

To the locals of Deadman's Hill: [1]
We will not take on the Prison Wardens, other matters are keeping us busy, and they are too strong, for now. But keep the torches raised, brothers.

To the locals of the Gear [2]
The Chosen are not listening to reason. They will have to be "relocated" as soon as possible. Plans will be discussed later.

GM only:
The Littlefinger is going around the locals of those two districts above, explaining that those messages are fake. The wardens will be assaulted, and soon.

[Zemalac]

??? to EBSA [Private]

Good day, sirs and madams. I would like to speak with you regarding the proposition you presented to the Heartspear Secret Police last month. Since then, said police have had a difficult time with the Fist of Neposh invading Orn Totre with the purpose of murder and mayhem, and as such they might be more willing to consider the offer you made, in exchange for protection or aid against the fanatics.

Write your response below and throw it in any trash bin. I will see it.

Regards,

The Thousand Voices


Wrekan Family to EBSA (ESP-D 4)

One final push should do it. With luck, we will have driven out the Hearthfeathers by the end of the month.


Bookbinder's Guild: Lord Pontiss' Tour [PM]

"Indeed, sir, and welcome," said the guide. You are not sure of his name. "If you will step this way..."

[OOC: Let's just assume there's a tour here. The Standard basically writes up rumors and sells them for a penny on the street corner. The "News" is not fact checked at all.]


Peacocks to Doctor Vassari (ESP-D 6)

A wonderful and intriguing proposition. What sort of "discreet assistance" did you have in mind, good Doctor?


Louis Orthax to Henry Wallen [PM]

Louis Orthax frowned. "Well, that would depend on what this party's political beliefs were," he said. "I'm not going to join something that I disagree with, after all."


Isabella Erhest Beteoui III to Henry Wallen [PM]

"Certainly!" Isabella seems thrilled at the suggestion. You get the feeling that she's viewing the whole thing as an elaborate game, and you've just given her a new piece to play with. "That would be delightful, Henry--can I call you Henry? It's always good to meet new people, don't you think?"


Dwimmercant to Henry Wallen [PM]

"We know some things about waves, lad. You don't stand firm before 'em if you can ride 'em out. If that's what you're hoping to do--ride the wave, not try to stand in front of it when it comes--then we might see our way to helping you."


The Exchange to Sausage Guild (ESP-D 2)

You are madmen. We were unwilling to allow you the use of our lower vaults--vaults that are needed for the daily operation of our business--and so your response is to break in and take them by force? What kind of solution is this? We are willing to negotiate, but at this point we mostly want to negotiate for our damn vaults back.


To Eldan (PM)

The people of the Gear mutter discontent, but those on Deadman's Hill are cheered by Littlefinger's message.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

Lord Wallen to Louis Orthax[PM]
"Sensible suggestion.
I'll be honest, because I think that some parts of our political views can upset you.
We believe that certain political changes are inevitable.
We believe that some of those changes endanger the very existence of our class.
We believe we must adapt or be destroyed.

We need to win the masses back, or be driven out by the anarchists.

So, we support the formation of a new government, with democratic elements to give our more certain alies (The traders and workers) power to oppose those that would use them as a tool to destroy us.

May I ask you what is your view on this matters?"

Lord Wallen to Isabella Erhest Beteoui III[PM]
Henry smiled.
"Of course it's always good to meet people. What is your view on the political and social situation on the city

Do you think that a pact between the different neighbourhood families would be possible?"

OOC: I already love this NPC so much I'm about to raise my VIP rating and ask you to let me have her XD"

Lord Wallen to Dwimmercant
That's what we think.
There is no way to stop certain changes (Political changes) from happening. If we are to survive and ride the wave down, we need to adapt.

And that means giving in on certain things, negotiating a lot, and finding a way to make the crew stick together.

[Thelonius]

Dr Vassari to Peacocks [6]

The Peacocks were all about respect. You had to be careful in negotiations with them, but it also meant their word meant something. This was what Vassari counted on in providing them assistance. If opium dens were simply crushed, somebody else would open the business in another part of the city. If they were controlled, then the damage from them could be mitigated. Opium as a recreation drug for the rich and wealthy would minimize the health and social costs to the city.

He hesitated for a second, before writing the reply. An open association with Peacocks wouldn’t be good for his reputation.

''I’m prepared to aid you with [2 ESP], [2 MIL] and [1 MAG].''


Vassari/Lord Wallen [PM]

''I had an impression, that the civil war has already started, with all that fighting on the streets. Even by the standards of our city, there has been a lot recently.''

''I’m entirely selfish in my views on the government. I would prefer one that can provide order and stability, while supporting various health programs around the city. Yet it’s not that simply, isn’t it?''

''I sincerely wish bloodshed could be stopped. But the fact that the shattered lands continue in their sorry state is a testament to the futility of such wishes. Only a powerful and ruthless warlord can take power. Yet if one’s legitimacy is dependent on strength alone, that means that another warlord will inevitably try to seize power, if he is stronger or the current leader grows weak. This naturally lends to the need for repression to weed out threats to one’s rule. A vicious cycle of one warlord’s brutal reign, one replacing another. The sorceress managed to break it and keep the city in order by being immortal, for a time. I expect that now the strongest and most ruthless faction would seize power in the city. And then in time they’ll fall and be replaced again.''

''If a different type of legitimacy could be established, perhaps this would break the cycle. I would say the appeal of anarchists is that they offer an alternative. The issue of course, whether it would work any better.''

''EBSA have continued to exist, by serving whoever is in charge. I have considered a same approach to let Bloodhaven survive. Yet, surviving alone is no longer enough for me. Maybe it shouldn’t be enough for the institution I’ve created. I won’t lie. I do want to mend this broken land. I simply haven’t found the cure yet.''

[ArcaneStomper]

The Sausage Guild

To Dr. Morden[6]
We have seen no signs of contamination in our water supply. We will look into it, but in the future we wish that you would ask for permission before sampling from our wells.

-Bloodhand

To the Exchange (2)
We are not madmen we simply do not have the same values as you do. We acknowledge that you see things differently. Where you hold to the arbitrary values of metal and currency we hold to the more fundamental values of flesh and blood. As such we will be continuing to use these vaults. We do have a proposal if you are willing to listen. And as we are not well versed in the arts of negotiation we will make it simple.

If you ally with us then we will guarantee your protection. What's more we do not intend to stop solely with your vaults. As we move through the rest of the Gilded we will take over their vaults as well, but we will allow you to handle the day to day functioning of the money lenders. We will in effect stay below the surface as our only concern is the vaults, and nothing will change at street level. Think of it, the entire financial structure of the Gilded under the control of the Exchange. And no more worrying about the extra expense of security as we will keep the streets safe for you. All we ask is the continued use of your vaults and that you transfer your guard forces to us.

And before you retort that the only people you need protection from is us. Consider the rest of the city. Fighting has broken out all over. How long before the factions of the city consolidate their power and turn their eyes towards your storehouses. And they won't give your gold back as we did.

It is your choice of course, but we both know that if you refuse you stand little chance of removing us from your vaults by force.

-Bloodhand

OOC: (Short version. Ally with us and take over the rest of the district. Split gains between us. Mil and magic to me, wealth and espionage to them. Otherwise we finish mopping up their forces and find another set of moneylenders to serve as surface proxies.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

Lord Wallen/Dr Vassari [PM]
"Again, I uderstand your position. I'm supporting the EBSA because it's the only chance I see to create a stable, legitimate government that doesn't involve stomping the rest of the factions to pieces.

The Civil War has not started yet, not at large. Sure, there is fight on the streets, but it's small thing. There is not yet great groups marching against each other, but they will be in little time.

The anarchists DO offer an alternative, but for how long?
Once the smoke has setted, the strongest amongst them will take power and everything will begin again.

No, the only way is to negotiate and create a sistem with checks and balances. Everyone, commoners, soldiers, priests, nobles must colaborat to create that.

The Ram is certainly offering that, if they are not destoyed by the Wren and the Blackfists.

We think alike, I'm glad. Please keep your current policies for now, had I the chance I would act like you.
If you need any help feel free to ask, I'll do what I can.

I hope that when the time comes we are on the same side.

Well, I must be leaving if you don't have any more bussiness.
I still have to send +++ wealth to finish the wing, right?
I'll send it [This turn]"

[Copper8642]

Heladuit Court

D. Esp: 6

To Millford Standing Guard

"You patrol the streets of Millford, and looking around, you do quite a job of it. I must ask, though, if you could make use of... patronage, of a sorts. This city is broken, and will remain shattered for quite some time. Sources of income for a Guard company like yourself might not remain stable and dependable. The Court's money is. We want to see Millford stay just as safe and civil as it currently is. Let us help you, and in return, you help us keep this vision a reality."


To Dappled Court

A man walks down the roads of the Dappled Court. He finds a house that came to the Grand Old Get-Together, and asks to speak.

"The Court is... interested in your culture here. You are so different from us, it fascinates the Court, is fascinates me. If you can be convinced to tell me, I just want to know what life is like for you in the Dappled Court. What do you want? What do you do? What are the problems here? I'm merely curious, after meeting you at our party.


To Underwood Family

"Ah, the Underwoods. Markus sends his regards, as well as a message. We have tailors working on your goblins' uniforms, and we thought of a way we could help you gain dominance over the Silviats. We would ask in return, of course, that this dominance is shared with us. Your soldiers could be given access to basic fire magic in their equipment. The soldiers of the Silviats could be made especially vulnerable to fire through magic, and the Silviats would need a miracle to notice. All it would take from there is for you to call them out to a fight, and win. Can you agree to this?"


To House Wallen

Sorry, friend. It appears my messenger got lost, but hopefully your ears are still open to what I have to say. I would be perfectly willing to support your claims in Sky in return for support for my claims in Heavensgate, as long as you don't mind me pushing my market into Sky. You're not active in the clothing market, are you?

As for a strategic alliance... I would be willing to speak with you personally as you requested. Maybe an alliance can form from there.


To Esoteric Society of Gentleman Explorers

Do you still require a suit? I understand that the time between your request and my response is quite a large gap... but the need for a fine suit never diminishes, and there are no finer suits than those of the Heladuits.

[Zemalac]

Louis Orthax to Henry Wallen (Private)

"Hmm." Louis Orthax listened intently, his frown growing deeper as Lord Wallen spoke. "If you want my opinion, do not give anything to democracy. I realize that the city-states of the Merchant's Water may have made that particular system look pleasing, but in all cases it leads to mob rule. The common people simply do not have the knowledge or the vision to understand and run a government, and are easily swayed by populist orators. A tyranny of the majority is just as much a tyranny as one man granted total power, and at least that one man would have the strength and organization needed to get things done."


Isabella Erhest Beteoui III to Lord Wallen (PM)

"We-ee-ell..." Isabella drew out the word. "If you're talking to old Louis, he's going to go off about obscure political systems and how the Merchant's Water is secretly controlled by half a dozen nobles and how autarchism is the greatest threat the world has ever seen. But, you know, he does that. So long as he doesn't think the mob has more power than he does, he's fine. If you're talking to the Dwimmercant Families, things might be trickier. They might agree, they might not, but no matter what they say you can be sure they mean something else entirely." Her eyes gleamed with barely-hidden amusement. "They're going to use you, Henry. Even with me telling you right now, they're going to string you up like a puppet and march you along to their beat. It's what they do."

The butler who had been hovering attentively nearby began passing out teacups and saucers. Isabella smiled innocently.

"Sugar?" she asked.


Dwimmercant to Lord Wallen (PM)

"Adaptability is good. Survivability is good. Control is even better. We will join your Party, to be sure." There are smiles all around. "Might be we could end up with control over far more than the shores of Dai, aye? That would be a good day indeed."


Peacocks to Doctor Vassari (ESP-D 6)

And that is all we would need. Your assistance is appreciated, Doctor. It will not be forgotten.


The Exchange to Sausage Guild (ESP-D 2)

What choice do we have but to accept your bargain? You know we cannot defend ourselves from your thugs, not after last month.

We will cede to you the vaults. Our guards will still report to us, but only for the purposes of securing the Mint. We will not be moved in this--our people and ours alone will be the ones defending the Mint building. This is where the wealth of the city is created, and we cannot trust anyone else with its protection.


Millford Standing Guard to Heladuit Court (ESP-D 4)

We get most of our supporting funds from local merchants and artisans. Everyone contributes a little bit to the Guard, and we keep everyone safe. Millford's is an exceptionally stable neighborhood, and I doubt that we will require any shift in our usual monetary policy. If you wish to support the guard, we will welcome your funds, but understand that they may not be entirely necessary.


Dappled Court to Heladuit Court (ESP-D 3)

Ooh! You're the guys who made the fancy new suits, weren't you? I had a couple ideas I wanted to talk to you about that...

(What follows is a rapid-fire chatter of clothing design ideas that range from unintentionally hideous to surprisingly inspirational.)


Underwood Family to Heladuit Court (ESP-D 4)

We have received similar offers from others before, and will give you the same answer we gave them: our relationship with the Silviat Family is nothing but cordial, with the possible exception of the Games.

[Nyrt]

Bookbinder's Guild: Lord Pontiss' Tour [PM]
Lord Pontiss looked over the rows of printing presses churning away. "If I may ask, how does the Standard get it's stories?" He asked the guide, still unsure of the guide's name, but not wanting the awkwardness involved in asking.


Lord Jove to Blackjack Boys (ESP-D 5)
Hmm... I like not the idea of Mages Ubiquitous infiltrating the city. Perhaps my funding is just what you need to get them to stay out for good. This would provide me with greater peace of mind, certainly, and just knowing you are there to keep them at bay is a balm to this fear.

[Thelonius]

To Zelmac/Lord Wallen Only

Unless I’m mistaken Lord Wallen is talking about establishing democratic government in the city. I’ve checked world’s fluff and on a brief inspection it appears there are only Empires/Kingdoms and esoteric cults/magic orders. Does the idea of democracy exist? Are there any democratic states?


Dr. Vassari frowned at Sausage Guild response. All Guilds were secretive by their nature. The secrets of their trade was half of their power. But why would they be concerned about this? He wrote his letter:

To Sausage Guild [6]

''I'm confident in my findings. My work to counteract the contamination will require me to collect samples from your wells. I await your permission to collect it.''

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To Zelmac/Lord Wallen Only
Well, I'd go for a british-like constitutional monarchy/aristocracy.
I'd figured that would sound like "democracy" to noble folk.

Sorry if I wasn't clear.

Henry Wallen to Louis Orthax (Private)
"I understand, Milord. We are arguing for democracy because we see it as the only viable way to actually get the city to move.
But we don't intend to lose power, no.
We'll have to share some with the lesser folk, but not anything they don't already have. It's this, or we'll be knees deep in anarchists and whatnot next winter.
If anything, we'll gain power, by getting the masses to follow us.

Who is better than nobles? who can make better speeches?

By adapting to this we can gain more than fighting it. That is what we think.

Would you agree on us buying a huose in the neighbourhood? You would get the Party invitation first hour in he morning.
We would send invitations to the friends you think would be best."


Lord Henry Wallen to Isabella Erhest Beteoui III [PM]
"Of course, thanks."
Henry puts a little sugar on the tea.
"Mylady, I know they are going to use me. I care not, as long as I can make something out of this town.

We have to make some changes, and I expect that political maneuvering and conspiracies are going to be a part of that for a long time.

We'll buy the house then, and send an invitation to be a member.
You should go for the Dai Neighbourhood Council presidency. It would be healthy to see a woman in that charge.
We'll send invitations to any friends you want."


Lord Henry to Dwimmercant families [PM]
"A fine day indeed, as long as you are not against sharing."
Lord Henry smiled.
"I'll buy a house to make it our base and send you fine gentlemen invitations. How would you feel about a final proposal?
I want to unify all party intelligence services. Since you are the families who seems to have the most of that, I wanted to ask you what would be the best way to do that."

To Heladuit Court
My friends, I'm sorry about your messenger. I must say that with all the troubles lately, I never got around to write to you again.

I am fine with that arrangement, as long as we are allowed to open Party Houses in the neighbourhoods you support, to atract the nobles and respectable families.
You are not active politically, are you?

Lord Henry Wallen.

[HerbieRAI]

Church of Neposh

Conversation with Margaret Hearthfeather (PM)

With only 1 MIL and no WEL at your disposal, all we can offer right now is refuge. Your family and Men may retreat into the Pews with the rest of the faithful and if Neposh wills it, you will return to Heartsblood one day to reclaim your district.


Message to Ram Revolution (Desp 7)

We know things in the city can change rapidly. Are you still planning on sending men to Orn Totre?


Merchantiles Guild (Desp 3)

We will trade you for your weapons. Thank you for your business

[Zemalac]

Bookbiner's Guild: Lord Pontiss' Tour (PM)

"From the street, milord!" The guide's speech seems practiced. "The very soul of this fine city speaks to our writers, the voice of the people begging to be heard through the pages of our broadsheet!"


Blackjack Boys to Lord Jove (ESP-D 5)

That'd be lovely, milord. Thank you kindly for the assistance.


To Thelonius, Ragnar Lodbroke (PM)

Democracy does exist, having sprung up in the Merchant's Water a couple times, but it usually falls apart. The world is still at the "Democracy=mob rule/tyranny of the majority" stage of political thinking. To most political philosophers, it's a dirty word.


Louis Orthax to Henry Wallen (PM)

"Well, I don't like it, but if you're promising to keep the damn anarchists down then I suppose it'll have to do."


Isabella Erhest Beteoui III to Henry Wallen (PM)

Isabella sips her tea and makes a face at the discovery that it's still too hot. Her expression when she replies to Lord Wallen is one of delight, however.

"Why, Henry, what a splendid idea!" she says.


Dwimmercant to Lord Wallen (PM)

The Families looked at each other.

"We don't really have an "intelligence service," per se," said one finally. "We just know people. Everywhere. I suppose we could drop what they tell us in your lap, but...what have you done for us lately?"


Margaret Hearthfeather to Church of Neposh (PM)

I don't like it, but it seems it may very well come to that.

[TsukikoJ]

House Laurier - Militia of Order and Justice [4]
First, I thank you for helping to clean up one of our neighborhoods here in Lomb Circle. House Laurier is interested in setting up shop in that particular neighborhood, but we wanted to work out the details with you first to make sure we won't be conflicted. Our interests lie here in Lomb Circle, including that neighborhood, so I hope you'll understand.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

Henry Wallen to Louis Orthax (Private)
Exactly my thoughts, sir. The anarchists should be our main concern.

I'll send you the invitation, hope you will attend the meeting.
And please tell me who else should come. It would be great fo the neighbourhood to have a lot of party representatives.

Lord Henry Wallen to Isabella Erhest Beteoui III [PM]
Madame, your tea is marvelous, I must say.

I will wait for you in the first party meeting. Be sure to end me a list of potential guests!
Not too many; I'm sure Lord Orthax wll have some ideas, and the Dwimmercant are numerous.

Lord Henry to Dwimmercant families [PM]
Good point. For now, I'm opening the door of the Big Game for you. True, you enter a team, but you will pass to have a different importance alltogether.

We can discuss those ideas later; for now I must go make preparations.

I will wait for you in the meeting, my Lords. you are free to bring more potential members, should you desire it.

To GM
The Houses from Dai are not exactly small, are they? They COULD be considered Big nobility?

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

church of neposh
how many weapons are you looking to buy? i can put my hands on [5] MIL worth on such short notice

[ArcaneStomper]

Sausage Guild

To Dr. Vassari

Very well we agree. What sort of contamination have you found?

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution:

TO: Church of Neposh (D ESP 7)

1 MIL of men will be under you control in Orn Totre. They will have orders to not engage any troops of forces that are currently friendly with the Revolution however. We will help you clear the streets, but if you encounter the EBSA, that will be your own fight.

[Copper8642]

Heladuit Court

D. Esp: 6

To House Wallen:

"I don't think that would be a problem, but just to be sure, could you elaborate on these "Party Houses?"

As for active politically... again, if you could explain? The Court has interest in expanding its land and prestige... but I guess we're not actively looking at any offices or positions that would be considered "political."


To Underwood Family:

Apologies, but surely you can understand how your disputes could be mistaken as animosity.

Though, given you've mentioned them, could you elaborate on these "Games?"


To Dappled Court:

*This man is insane* the messenger thought, but he quickly began taking notes when he heard actual good ideas in the elf-man's rambling.

As the man winded down, the messenger said his goodbyes, realizing there was no use in talking to these people if he wanted to learn anything worthwhile. Before he left, however, he decided to ask around and see if he could find out anything about this "Vintish Guard" that supposedly patrolled the streets, but he had never seen.

[HerbieRAI]

Church of Neposh

To Merchintiles guild

Only 1 right now. The rest of our income is being spent in other areas.

[Grimsage Matt]

Technists Guild To the Mechentiles Guild(PM)
We aren't planing on violence, so we aren't planing on researching Blackpowder soon. Hopefully, we'll never have to make the stuff. But we can look into it.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To Heladuit Court
We meant "Political" as "Taking contol of the city government".

Party Houses would be of use to atract any persons that could be interested in being a member of the party.

I think we should end expanding (You in your sector and me in mine) before discussing that kind of exchange.

To EBSA
CONFIRM: do I have permission to deploy the aforementioned troops or not?

[Nyrt]

There has been a last minute change of plans, as Lord Gantris was called away on family matters, so Lord StigBalathad will be attending.

[Zemalac]

Turn 2 Results
August, 1032 DR


The Sav Altulas Standard
Your Only Reliable News Source

Sponsored by the Bookbinder's Guild

___________________________

What follows is the month's contents of the Standard, summarized in reports on your desk, with occasional excerpts included for context.


______________________________

Doctor Vassari announces the opening of the Wallen Wing of Bloodhaven Hospital, made possible by generous donations from House Wallen and the Mercantile's Guild. The opening ceremony is marred, however, when several bodies are discovered underneath the stage the Doctor is delivering his speech from, arteries slashed and blood strewn about.

Mercantile's Guild troops move into Stockyards Deep after the Drover's Associations there begin fighting in the streets. The bloody fighting that followed all but destroyed the Drovers, leaving the Guild in charge of the neighborhood.

The remains of the Milanus Protective Association have vanished, leaving the Gatekeeper's Guard in control of Gateway Milanus. Rumor has it that the Guard is reporting directly to the Wardens these days.

Enormous Warden assault on White Market is only halted when Wyat Embler orders the use of weapons specifically banned in the city by both the old government and his masters in distant Veras. Warden troops regroup at a reasonable distance from Embler's safehouse as mortar shells begin to fall on the rest of the neighborhood.

Massive riots erupt on Deadman Hill in Runner's City, centered on the infamous Gatehouse Prison. Warden Exarn gives the order to deploy riot mages to the streets, wizards who use their control over the water pipes beneath the streets of the neighborhood to hose down the rioters, but they are swiftly countered by Blackfist sorcerers hidden in the crowds. In short order, all of the warden’s prized riot mages are dead, either in magical combat or by assassination. Little is known of what happened next. What is obvious is that Warden Exarn's forces retreated to Gatehouse Prison, blowing the bridge over the moat behind them, but were then attacked from inside by rioting prisoners. Eventually, the last of the wardens and guards broke through the mob of rioters and anarchists and fled the neighborhood. They joined up with the guards at the Harrowing Fields and made a stand there, finally holding back the Blackfist insurgents at the gate to the arena. The gates of the most infamous prison in the Shattered Lands now stand open, with the Blackfist flag hung over the makeshift bridge laid across the moat.

The Order of the Wren has raised an army in Lack's Own and stormed the Sanctuary of the Deranged, bringing an end to that vile cult.


______________________________

Excerpt from the Standard

Lower City Death Cult Brought to Justice!

It is hard to convince the locals of Lack’s Own to move against the Blessed Mad—the madmen’s reign of terror has been too complete for too long. The voice of the Wren is persuasive, however, and he is able to convince them that they might have a chance. Indeed, he tells them, this might very well be their only chance. Wagons roll into Lack’s Own from the Tragic Court, carrying weapons to arm the people against those who have preyed on them for so long. Soon an army is raised in the streets, led by an elusive figure in a tattered cloak.

The Sanctuary is hard to find. None of the Blessed Mad will reveal its location; despite all of them having been there many times before, it may very well be possible that none of them actually know where it is. Their minds have decayed past the point of reason, and no amount of interrogation will lead them to betray their god of madness. Fortunately, the Order’s spies are clever. The Blessed Mad always seem to know when they are being followed, but they also tend to evade their pursuers within the same couple of blocks, which gives some sense of where they are going. A quick perusal of city records shows a vast space under the streets in that particular area, a church that fell through the ground during the long-ago Godsfear Quake.

The Order and their local allies storm the Sanctuary. They take the Blessed Mad by surprise, but the madmen are not people who expect logic to reign in their lives, so the advantage is short-lived. The locals are fearful, their bravery when they agreed to this mission evaporating now that they find themselves in the very heart of horror. Some of them recognize people they know among the bodies that decorate the Sanctuary; others, worse, recognize some among the still-living playthings of the cult; and, worst of all, some see familiar faces behind the gleaming knives of the mad, twisted into almost unrecognizability by insane grins.

The fight in the Sanctuary is brutal beyond belief. The Mad throw themselves at the Order with reckless disregard for their own safety, attacking with knives, rusty swords, nets, spears, or their bare hands. Room by room the battle is fought, with an ambush in each of them. Here, a madman drops from the ceiling and dies as he tears into a local man who, bare hours ago, was handed a sword and told the Order would help avenge his daughter. In the next room, acid seeps through the floor as a cultist douses himself and three Order soldiers with violent green toxins. A corridor later, in a room carpeted with decaying bodies, the Blessed Mad rise up from where they were lying with the dead and take the intruders by surprise, knives flashing in the dark.

One by one the madmen die, and by the time morning comes all that is left is the blood and the fire. The Sanctuary is no more. Once the fighting stopped, the last members of the Blessed Mad running off into the dark, the locals gathered their dead and torched the pit that they had fought in. The street sags there now, where the support pillars have burned through, a monument to the cult that once terrorized the people of Lack’s Own.



______________________________

The artificers of the Foundry in Little Veras have joined the Technists Guild wholeheartedly.

The Vilenus Tong has been driven out of Resseville by the Champions of Sovereignty, led by King James I. Reports of the ice elf Tong freezing civilians into human walls to block off Champions advances have been confirmed by multiple sources.

The Esoteric Society of Gentlemen Explorers has cleared most of the bears off one of the major islands in Brecombe Lake.

The Sausage Guild has publically returned the contents of the vaults they seized last month to the Exchange.

The Exchange has begun constructing vaults at the tops of towers.

House Laurier now has full control over the Pond neighborhood. It is rumored that they have developed contacts with local merchants from the city-states of the Merchants Water.


______________________________

Excerpt from the Standard

Merchant's Water Comes to Lomb Circle
The bright, sun-kissed waters of the Boundless Isles have marked the man running this shop like the touch of some strange and foreign god, his deeply tanned skin and sharp dark eyes making him stand out from any crowd in this northern Shattered Lands city. The shelves of his store are crowded with the eclectic array of merchandise that marks the true Waterman merchant-prince, from Tybish spices to Arypsian wines, from Buronian silver to Lomaran knives. There are maps tacked to the wall behind the counter, covered in lines drawn in different colored inks, proudly showing the many trade routes that brought these goods to this place. Stacks of wooden crates can be seen through the door behind the Waterman, the seals of far-off trading companies stamped on them like brands on cattle—Darrigan East Exports, Kempthorne, Far Isles, Kerriglass Messenger and Delivery, and many more.

“Hello there,” says the man behind the counter, smiling an easy merchant’s smile. “What can I do for you today?”

Waterman Contact discovered in the Pond neighborhood.


______________________________

House Laurier troops, led by Guy Laurier, have driven the Third Street Runners, Underdogs and Bloodsworn gangs out of Tremorous, and have begun rebuilding the neighborhood to its pre-earthquake glory.

House Orthax, House Beteoui and the various Dwimmercant Families have joined the Party led by Lord Henry Wallen, with the construction of a Party House in Dai being funded by House Wallen.

Much of Southside Black in the Blacksgage district is on fire or otherwise destroyed in the aftermath of a major magical battle between the Librarian of the Elements and Silas Mok, who was finally killed by the Librarian's summoned creatures.

It is rumored that a large number of University Guard, ordered by the Librarian to hunt down the source of some particularly nasty rumors, went missing in Scholar's Compass on the night of the full moon.

The Millford Standing Guard is now funded almost completely by members of the Silversmith's Guild who have set up shop in the neighborhood.

The Hearthfeather Family has fled to Pews, where it is said they have converted to the Church of Neposh in exchange for protection against the Wrekan Family. Heartsblood is now under the control of the Wrekans, with support from the EBSA.

Public speakers from the Ram Revolution are hailed as visionaries in Imperial Third, less so in Pits.

The Ram Revolution has started a small bank in Rot's Borough, with hopes to expand its operations.

The Goblin Games in Hobbespot turn bloody as the armies of goblins being made to fight in the arena to settle a dispute between the Underwood and Silviat families turn on their masters. It is only the guards brought by Marcus Heladuit to guard a sales presentation he was delivering to the assembled Family members that prevented the goblins from overrunning the arena. This has left the Heladuit Court in command of the Games--and he who commands the Games commands Hobbespot.

The Heartspear Secret Police have been driven out of Orn Totre by the Fists of Neposh, with help from the Ram's Republican Army. The Police did not try to surrender, but rather fought to the last man. Later on it is rumored that the upper ranks of the Heartspears survived, and are hiding elsewhere in the city. All that is known for sure is that the leader of the secret police, the one called the Thousand Voices, is not among the dead.

The streets of Fractures have returned to some semblance of normalcy, even as soldiers from the Militia of Order and Justice fight demons beneath the earth.

A large force from the Militia of Order and Justice is pushing out the gangs in the Mains, hoping to make the area safer for ordinary citizens.

Two hand presses being delivered to customers by the Technists Guild were ambushed and destroyed en route by thugs hoping to collect on bounties posted by the Bookbinder's Guild.

The Peacocks who run the Painted Court are muscling in on the opium dens of the Everdie, Macetile and Dumdros gangs.

The various gangs and witches of Old Jack's Run have come to a tenuous truce.

Labor unrest increases in the Smokeyards district.

The Blackjack Boys have been seen patrolling Redress Street with new and complicated magitech weapons.

Someone has been feeding the Sav Altulas Standard slanderous stories about the EBSA. However, the effect of these stories is counteracted somewhat by the propaganda that the EBSA has commissioned from the Bookbinder's Guild, showing the organization in a positive light. The net result is that the slander negates the propaganda, and vice versa.


______________________________

Excerpt from the Standard

EBSA Staff Consume Flesh of Children in Ritual Murder-Bestiality Pact!

Full story on page 3.

Paid Advertisement:

In times of trouble, who brings you healing when you cannot afford a doctor? Who keeps your streets safe and your family fed? Who keeps this city running, day and night, through fire and flood? Who has seen to it that Sav Altulas is regarded as the lone, shining jewel in these Shattered Lands?

For a hundred years, the EBSA has striven to support the citizens of this great city. No matter the trouble, know that we will always be there to help.



______________________________

The Gear's Chosen, after an exhaustive analysis of the copy of the Liber Technologica given to them by the Technists Guild, have announced that it is heresy and publicly burned it. They have followed up the book-burning by declaring holy war on the Technists Guild. How they hope to accomplish this from the other side of the city is anyone's guess.


______________________________

Mail and Behind-The-Scenes

Imperial Trade Ministry to Mercantile's Guild (ESP-D 3)

If we thought that money could rid the Shattered Lands of bandits, we would have gladly paid that price many times before. However, with the Wardens off their usual caravan routes and instead occupied in the city, we suppose we should start looking into other means of protecting our traders.

We are willing to offer you a loan of [10 t.WEL], but be warned that we will expect swift results and repayment. Failure in either of these matters will result in action by the Imperial Chancery.

Regards,

Minister Moth
Imperial Ministry of Trade and Commerce


Lucas Deplorian to Wyat Embler (ESP-D 4)

Mr. Embler,

I have received reports of your recent actions in response to intrusions into territory you deem to be under your control. While I understand that your handling of the situation has been the best it could be under the circumstances, I cannot help but feel that you have allowed events to escalate beyond your ability to control them. This (if I may quote your last letter) "barbarian invasion force" was stirred to action when your men ambushed them as they were attempting to travel through the neighborhood two months ago. You believed that they were a threat to your operation and had them eliminated, as is your prerogative, but in doing so you must have expected the retribution that would result. Your failure to do so does not reflect well on your management of my operations in the city.

As such, I hereby inform you that Mr. Nielson has been dispatched to Sav Altulas. He will arrive in one month's time, at which point you will be relieved of command pending a full review of your actions. Until that time you are retroactively granted permission to use the heavy weapons that we had sent you for sale to Cord Witchbrother, with the exception of the Ember n152 Prototype, the Demonmouth guns and the third-generation mutagens. In addition, I feel I must warn you that Mr. Neilson has orders to execute you without trial if he discovers that you have so much as touched the unmarked black box that was meant for sale to the Lord Protector of the Protectorate of the Blood. We understand that some shipments have been disrupted due to the situation you have found yourself in, but there is no excuse for halting delivery to such a highly valued customer.

Regards,

Lucas Deplorian



______________________________

Bounty Board
All prices listed are in t.WEL unless otherwise stated, and will be paid out immediately upon confirmation by the bounty poster.

Skeeve Redeye: Poisoner, serial killer, alchemist, dollmaker and rumored demon.
2 from Agia Lonecutter, 5 from Illarym Empire (up 1 from last month)

Unknown Raiders: Whoever stole the Imperial weapons meant for the Wardens from the caravan delivering them to the city.
2 from Imperial Trade Ministry

Blackfist Press
1 from Bookbinder's Guild


______________________________

Turn 3 Begins
September, 1032 DR
EoTs due Saturday

[Murska]

Wardens to Imperial Chancery

We have come into possession of quite a few Verdan weaponry and gadgets. They're very effective when used against us, so we would be glad to put them to use ourselves if only we knew how they worked. If you have any specialists to that effect, we would be grateful for assistance. Alternatively, we could send them to you if you were to provide a powerful enough escort to stop any further banditry, and hopefully compensate us for our losses somewhat.

((EDIT: Also, we're adding the intercepted message from the Verdan boss to Embler that's in the above message, asking if the Chancery wants us to try and do something about those weapons mentioned.))

Wardens to Wayt Embler

We'll allow you and your men to depart Spicer's Circle along with your remaining weaponry and items if you will trouble us no further. This is the only chance we will be giving you - please give it due consideration and avoid wasting more lifes.

[Eldan]

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/451/torch3.jpg

From a distance, it is difficult to tell if it is a party in the streets, or a riot. Perhaps it is both. There are fires. There is shouting. There is singing. And apparently, there is also drinking. Black flags are waved above the crowd, and the Blackfist is celebrating.
The prison is gone. A few desks are thrown out of the prison offices, some files are set on fire. A wall or two are blown up. But in a joyful manner.
Of course, this is no reason to not use this for a little propaganda. Flyers are handed out with every drink, and propagandists spontaneously jump up on barrels and tables and low walls with their speaking tubes, shouting slogans and impromptu speeches on the virtues of overthrowing Tyranny and The Man.

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution:

TO Technists Guild:

Next time we order something from you, remind us to send our own escort. If you have the materials and the time to build another, I'd be willing to provide an escort this time.


TO Church of Neposh:

Congratulations on the victory in Orn Totre. I trust I can call upon you when I need a similar assistance?


TO The various Legion Gangs:

-One message is sent to each of the various gangs, as well as any other people who can be considered leaders of the community.-

I have noticed the recent surge in Democratic feelings among your people. As is obvious, I plan to bring democracy to this city, one neighborhood at a time. However, I abhor violence, as do all sane men I think. So I would ask that you and your people join us willingly. This would not be a ruler/subject relationship, but one of partners. The Imperial Third would have a full vote in any matters in the Revolution, and I can assure that the Legion wing of our army would quickly become an elite unit. Each of the current Legions could become companies in the larger Legion wing of the army, there would be no reason for rivals to have to become friends, save when it comes to the enemies of our mutual cause. Your people would be guaranteed the same rights as all others, free to use our new bank, or any other of the popular reforms I am working on implementing. I feel that this would be of mutual benefit to us. Please let me know your answer as soon as possible.
-The Ram

[Grimsage Matt]

Technists Guild

To the Rams
We apologize on the Hand presses. We have a Idea for how to get them over the thugs, but we'll send them with a escort soon. And once again, we would like to apologize for the inconvince.

To the Bookbinders guild
Would you be intrested in buying our Hand presses?

To the Mercintiles guild
We have reconcidered your proposal. We'll devote some work on it.

To the UAL
Would you be intrested in buying some printing presses?

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

To the Drovers [4]
"It is clear to me, that the mercantile guild are entirely responsible for the chaos that has occurred in Stockyards deep. Both the sudden turn to violence by the drovers, and immediate response of the guild makes this apparent."

"I would like to offer you my organisations full military protection, which I will make public so the Mercantile Guild does not attempt the same in Stockyards North."

- King James I

[Eldan]

Blackfist Brotherhood [6]

To the Legions of Imperial Third
Hail, Brothers! Why squabble amongst each other, when there are richer pickings so close? How about a good dose of "social justice" for those who think they are better than you? The Brotherhood calls for you.

The Artists of Dozen Dancers
Art is free. Shouldn't the men of Sav Altulas also be free? The Brotherhood thinks so. Why should we suffer under rules and regulations, when we could, instead, live our lives in freedom and peace? Is that not worth fighting for?
Raise the Torch, Brothers!

The Wool Street Gang of the Dozen Dancers and the Empty Blood Gang of Annosus
Raise a Torch, Brothers! The true revolution is coming! Why live on the meagre pickings of your own brothers, when you could burn the riches out of their palaces?

The Wardens in Harrowing Fields
We give you one chance, and one chance only: give up the Arena, and you may go home to your families, to live a peaceful life, or into excile, which ever suits you.
We will see this arena ended, one way or another. There will be no more bloodsport in the city.
Your choice is simple. Will this end with your blood as the last to soak into the arena sands, or will you go home?

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

To House Laurier [4]
"It is good to see you restoring order to Lomb Circle so quickly. I'm grateful you put so much effort towards helping the people of my city."

"I have broken the back of the Tong. Given your interest in Lomb circle, I was wondering if you'd like to lead the assault on their final district; The Broken Arch. I'd be glad to let you govern the district when order is restored. My forces will provide support and do what we can to reduce civilian casualties."

- King James I

[Murska]

Wardens to Wardens (heh)

We are unable to project force to the other side of the city to help you. But if any of you are able to make your way to Spicer's Circle, we'll take you in for your valuable experience in keeping the criminal scum of the city pacified.

[Eldan]

An official statement from the Middle Finger

"The question has been raised: what will happen with the prisoners, now that the prison has been liberated?

Fear not. The Blackfist Brotherhood will not release a horde of howling madmen on the citizens of the city they love so dearly.

We will carefully review the files. Those who are our brothers, those unjustly imprisoned by a fascist system to appease the corrupt? They will be released, as is just. The others will be given a choice. Remain in their cells, or leave the city. They have committed crimes, sometimes horrible crimes, and as such, they have no right to remain here. We will escort them out of the city and release them a day's march away from the walls."

Blackfist Brotherhood to the Other wardens (so, Murska)

If you want that scum, you can have them. How about a deal? We will let the wardens go in peace, if you take them in and convince them to leave peacefully and leave the arena to us.

Because we will take that Arena. We will not see any more poor people slaughtered for the amusement of the rich.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Sausage Guild

To the Conductor
Greetings,

We in the Sausage Guild are looking to expand our vaults, and we were wondering if you would be willing to come to some form of arrangement in the matter. Also our Shapers are interested in discussing magic with you if you would be so willing.

-Urso Bloodhand

[Murska]

Wardens to Other Wardens and Blackfist Brotherhood

((At least 7 Esp? Nice))
The Blackfists have agreed to let you go in peace if you do join us. Perhaps it's best to live to fight another day, as they say?

[HerbieRAI]

Church of Neposh

Harvey was walking through Orn Totre, there was still work to be done, but the battle was over. The secret police were mostly brought to justice. He was on his way back to the church, when a similar face walked up to meet him.

I see you did well the Voice said in a raspy voice.

And your on your way to a quick recovery. You know how much longer till we can hear your full voice again?

Neposh willing not long. We need to have a meeting about the next phase. Our scouts have brought back some.... unnerving news. It may take use a lot longer to fulfill our great crusade than previously thought.

Whatever the news was, it wasn't going to be good. The Voice was always underestimating the enemy, and if he was nervous, then there was a serious obstacle to overcome. But that was what Harvey was for. He overcame where others failed. That is why he lead the chruch of Neposh, and not the Voice.

Message to the Ram Revolution (Desp 7)

We will assist you when called. Of course giving us time to respond will let us respond with more power. We thank you for your dedication to our partnership.


Message to the Order of Justice (Desp 7)

We see you are sending forces into the Mains. We had plans to move into the district, but only to surround our real goal, the Bleak Cathedral. We are willing to help you secure the Mains, if you will assist us in the coming months with securing the Bleak Cathedral


Message to one of the machine-cults of Lead Ferrow (Desp 7)

The fighting in Lead Ferrow is causing a lot of damage to all the cults. We would be willing to lend you some military support if you would support us later.


Message to the Librarian of the Elements (Desp 5)

We have recently ran into some very disturbing facts about parts of this city. We are hoping to use the university's library to find any history on the Bleak Cathedral. Would you be willing to help us?

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild
morale:3

to technists guild
very good. how long do you think it will take? starting next turn we can begin making small payments to you

to the wardens[both]
we understand you are having issues with the blackfist brotherhood and are considering giving up the harrowing field. i dont recomend giving it up without a fight. if they are not stopped then they will only continue to grow stronger

to the imperial trade ministry
any loan would do us good. we will of course pay you back swiftly(2-3 turns)

to the wardens[murska]
i have a proposal for you. i believe you have a large military force but not alot of funds, me i have the oppisite so i believe we could help eachother out. we can work together to restore order to this city, with you supplying the swords while i supply the wealth

to king james I
why do you seek to protect the drovers guild? with the various guilds constantly bickering and fighting with eachother, it is only right they are overthrown for the good of the people

[Murska]

Wardens to Mercantile Guild

Well, we're currently in the process of using our swords to bring order. If you were to start funneling in the promised wealth, this would be a very good partnership.

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

to the wardens[murska]
we will see what we have left after deciding on our other actions. we may also be putting our intelligence community towards finding your missing arms shipment

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

To the Mercantile Guild [4]
"The Drovers behaviour is unusual. That their violence suddenly escalates, and only in the district you were prepared to attack, makes me suspect you. But I will not jump to conclusions."

"I will however ask, why you did not tell me you were planning this operation. If you can read my messages now, you also read my message to the Drovers, when I began the process of finding a diplomatic solution to their problems."

"You did not even attempt diplomacy, let alone even speaking to them before you decided to attack. A peaceful solution would have saved countless lives that you brashly threw away."

To the Shipwrights Guild [4]
"I'd like to discuss the possibility of building a small fleet. In private if you will."

[oblivion6]

mercantile guild

to king james
there was that one message you sent to them, but after that i noticed no other contact between you and them so i saw no reason to notify you of my operation, thinking you had decided not to go through the diplomatic proccess

[Nyrt]

Lord Jove, to Blackjack Boys [4]
Sirs
Do you know of any way that I might be able to conceal my correspondance from magic? You see I worry about Mages using their abilities to spy on the noble houses, and as you are the experts in dealing with them, You are
most likely to have the answer.

[Grimsage Matt]

It's begun!

Gaspar had a dream. Airships in the north. The Technists guild was brought in to help, for could make no progress for nearly a hundred years. Yet today is the day that changes! Today is the first step on the road to Gaspars dream.

Near the tower, it's almost as if a festival is occuring. Food and drink are handed out, and there is a sense of great cheer. And then the unveiling occurs.

Standing nearly six foot tall, and more closly resmling a bear then a man, is the one the guild affectionatly calls the "Clockwork Bear". Several scientists are standing near him, as are some of the prominant artificers of the foundry.


"Brothers, Sisters in Artifice, we've worked hard for this, and we know it's not over. But Lets have a good time! We're working hard, our projects are going well, but lets say why your all really here!"
With that, he flips a switch, and the Balloons starts to inflate, pulling the basket up.

"Everyone gets a ride, because it belongs to all of you! This is the begining! Soon, we will be able to ply great airships across the sky, as mighty as any in the south! No, stop listening to me, and have fun!"

[Zemalac]

Imperial Chancery to Wardens (ESP-D 6)

Thank you for keeping us appraised of the situation in Sav Altulas. We will be dispatching a team of operatives to the city to investigate the matter of this "black box" mentioned in Deplorian's letter--from the (admittedly brief) description, the aforementioned item sounds disturbingly similar to the standard Veras method for transporting engineered plagues. While the Veras City Council has issued a strict ban on the creation of such agents, Deplorian has been known to ignore the wishes of the Council upon occasion. Keeping such an item out of the hands of the Lord Protector is essential. As for the other items mentioned, we do not know what the "Ember Prototype" might be, but we do recognize the other two. Demonmouth guns are, at their heart, pumps that are used to spray flaming liquid on targets, and are notoriously unreliable. We would guess that Deplorian wants to limit their use to discourage fires from starting in the city. The mutagens are more interesting, to us. Classically, they would be used to magically alter the body of an individual, making them stronger, faster and more resilient, along with other possible side-effects. Why Deplorian does not want these particular ones to be used is a mystery to us, and worth possible investigation.

While our operatives are in the city, we would be glad to take a look at the devices you have recovered. Perhaps we will recognize some of them. Lord Agent North will contact you once he and his team have reached the city--he will probably be using a different name, so keep an eye out.


Wyat Embler to Wardens (ESP-D 4)

Just as this is the only chance you are giving me, so too is it my only chance to prove myself to my masters. Whether I die by your hand or by the hand of the man coming to judge and replace me, it matters not.

Consider this, then, your final warning from me. Leave White Market. Go play with swords somewhere else, because I assure you I will do everything in my power to remove you before the end of the month.


Imperial Third Legions to Ram Revolution (ESP-D 3)

Many in Imperial Third fought for the Lead Prophet in the last Imperial uprising, before Dakaas burned and the revolutionary army was crushed by the Coward's Legion. Many would be willing to fight once again.


Bookbinder's Guild to Technists Guild (ESP-D 4)

So you're the one producing those. We would like to request that you cease all production of printing equipment immediately, destroy your blueprints and dismantle any already manufactured equipment. Should you not comply with this request, we will be forced to take steps to once again secure the Guild's dominance.


Drovers to Champions of Sovereignty (ESP-D 4)

We're kinda suspicious of all that happened in the Deep as well, yer honor. We'd appreciate yer protection, if it ain't too much trouble.


Imperial Third Legions to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 3)

You offer revolution without anything to replace the corrupt existing order. What have you to give us that we cannot seize on our own?


Artists to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 0)

Nothing is worth dying for. Life is precious. Life should be free, yes, but why break from constraints when we do not mind the chains?


Wool Street Gang to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 5)

We saw what you did at the Gatehouse, and we gotta say, we like your style. Maybe we can talk.


Empty Blood Gang to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 4)

Man, you ain't nearly extreme enough for us. Busting prisons? Fire in the streets? Oh my ****. Come talk to us when you grow some balls and want to start the real business.


Warden Exarn to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 4)

We will leave. You can have the damn arena. But mark my words, you lawless ****s, one day there'll be a reckoning. You'll pay for the honest guardsmen you've killed.


Warden Exarn to Wardens (ESP-D 4)

Might just take you up on that, so long as we can get another crack at these Blackfist bastards some day. We can't hold them off here, not by ourselves. There's too many of 'em, and if they stir up the rioters again there'll be more.


The Conductor to the Sausage Guild (ESP-D 7)

InDEEd, sIrs? the UNdErgrOuND OF allscRoss iS of No conceRn oF mINE. YoU maY haVE IT FOR Your creatures, if you likE, so lONG AS My worK is nOT INTERRUPTED.


Machine Cults to Church of Neposh (ESP-D 5)

The messages received from the four machine-cults are all similar: The other three bands of heretics/apostates/unbelievers/demon-****ers need to be destroyed/burned/put to the sword/ritualistically eaten so that the grand design of the Holy Creator/Unknowable Plan/Sacred Globe/Masterwork may proceed unimpeded.


Warden Exarn to Mercantile's Guild (ESP-D 3)

While I appreciate your concern, sir, we do not really have a choice in the matter.


Shipwright's Guild to Champions of Sovereignty (ESP-D 4)

Certainly, milord. Come by to visit us any time; or, if it's more convenient, we could send a representative to you.


Blackjack Boys to Lord Jove (ESP-D 4)

Aye, that we do. Since you were so generous with the funding last month, we'll even help you out with that for free. Got some lovely little things from the Kingdom that ought to do the trick just fine.

[NM020110]

The Librarian of the Elements
Esp-d 4

To: Shifter magi[ESP-D 4?]

The presence of the Blackjack Boys within Redress Street is rumored to be a rather great hindrance to you. Furthermore, it would seem that another faction is seeking to gain influence with them by providing advanced weaponry.

Since previous attempts at subtlety within this city have found deaf ears, I'll make my offer a tad blunt. I will remove the Blackjack Boys from existence, and give you control of the neighborhood. In exchange, you will govern the neighborhood in my name, and support me in my efforts to take control of this city.

This is your chance to gain a foothold within the city. Whether you take it or not is up to you.


To: The Scholar's Compass [ESP-D 2]

It would appear that there truly is something within the neighborhood. With your permission, I would send a rather more powerful patrol through the area to find out what it is, and with luck eliminate it.

[Thelonius]

Bloodheaven

Dr. Vassari's grim expression was concealed by his bandages. People who knew him well, would have known how he felt. Were there any people who really knew him? He wasn't certain. He crossed that invisible boundary, that divided one neibhorhood from another. That made people living just a few steps away from each other into enemies.

Letter to Peacocks [6]

''The operation was a success. Perhaps the last gang could be persuaded to join ranks with us, but that choice would be up to you.''

''I’m planning to invest in making Little Zanchar into a more attractive destination for visitors. An idea came to me – why not work with them to promote the virtues of our District. The more people come to Little Zanchar, the more of them pass through Elfwatch or Painted Court. In fact why not advertise all three neighbourhoods jointly as able to satisfy three different hungers of flesh. I can see additional coin, if your girls lead their clients to dine in new establishments of Little Zanchar and lead them to spend more coin on expensive wines and foods. Additional coin from a special arrangement with owners of course.''

''I’m planning to spend at least [2 WEL] on advertisement for Triphage Unitma’s good parts (Elfwatch, Painted Court, Little Zanchar) and I’m trying to convince Little Zanchar’s Market Guard to chip in. A bit coin from you and we’ll greatly increase the number of visitors.''


To Market Guard of Little Zanchar [6]

Dr. Vassari seated himself across the representative of the Market Guard.

''The main coin you receive comes from the visitors, interested in tasting your superb cuisine. However the reputation of our district has hardly attracted the masses of gourmets, considering the Old Jack’s Run situation and the opium dens of Elfwatch. However, that is changing. There is a truce keeping a tenuous order and Peacocks will soon change the Elfwatch into a more upscale operation.''

Vassari omitted mentioning, that he was responsible for both of those changes, but he didn’t doubt his counterpart knew about it well enough.

''I would like to propose a cooperative venture between Little Zanchar, Peacocks and myself. We can make Triphage Unitma attractive to the visitors from all over the town. A place to relax and satisfy various appetites of the flesh. If we make the streets safe, replace small food stalls with large, well-decorated establishments, adding musicians and dancing… raise the prices.'' Doctor Vassari practically murmured the last part. ''I think Little Zanchar could prosper. And I can see significant synergy. Food delivery to the new opium dens, ladies of the night escorting their paramours to newly opened centres of Zanchar culture to partake in expensive wines and delicious dishes. You can certainly make a deal with them for a percentage of the coin the man ends up spending.''

''I have [6 WEL] to invest in turning Little Zanchar into a jewel of our beloved city. Part of it would go to advertising to attract new visitors to the best parts of Triphage Unitma. I will take a percentage of profits that this would give you. Would you be interested?''

[For some reason I feel compelled to turn Triphage Untima into District of Vice.]

[Eldan]

Blackfist Brotherhood to the Imperial Third Legions [3]
Unity, Brothers!
A hand, united, can do many things one finger can not, no matter how strong. Already, Kings and Parties are springing up all over the city, the so-called democrats are selling our freedom, and everyone is stocking experimental, cruel weaponry. No matter how strong the Legions are, can you not use more support?

Blackfist Brotherhood to the Artists

Chains take many forms. Some bind the flesh, and some bind the mind. What is art, if not a desire to unchain the mind?
But just as there are many ways to bind, so there are many ways to fight. No one has to take up arms, if they do not want to. The people's revolution needs poets as much as warriors.

Blackfist Brotherhood to the Wool Street Gang [5]

You will see more of that style, pretty soon. Maybe we can come to an arrangement. What we need is obvious - the revolution always needs more men, more resources, more safe houses, if we are to have any chance of defeating the tyrants.
The question is, what do you need, brothers? Speak up, and be heard!

Blackfist Brotherhood to the Blackjack Boys [5]
Brothers, we have words that a certain magician in the city wants to wipe you out for his own, corrupt ends. But means to balance the scales can be arranged. Perhaps we should have words.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

Lord Wallen to Doctor Vassari
Doctor; what happened back in the hospital? I realize this must not have been in your plans.

Do you require assistance?

Lord Wallen to Silversmith Guild
Greetings. The Lodstrom party was planing on buying some silver crafts to decorate the Party Houses.You should send a representative to discuss this with one of my representatives.

Other matters important to the city might be treated.


To Party internal Council
Now we dominate the main small houses. What is to be done aboutt eh great ones? We need to unify the noble class politically to be truly powerful.

What would you be willing to do?

The war is erupting under us, and we need to move.

To Kara Lythene
We have heard little of you lately; is the meeting coming down?

[ArcaneStomper]

The Sausage Guild

To the Conductor
Excellent,

May we ask what your work is? We would not wish to interrupt you by accidentally disturbing something important to your work.

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

The Champions are officially protecting the drovers of Stockyards North

To the Drovers: [4]
"Right, let's get to business. How many of you remain, and what are your grievances with each other?"

To The Militia of Order and Justice [4]
"How are you faring?"

"If I may, I would like to request an exchange of aid. I require additional forces to claim the Broken Arch. The Tong have shown their willingness to slaughter innocents to preserve their survival, so I do not want to risk assaulting their main base without overwhelming odds."

""If you can promise me assistance next month, I will put my full military force at your disposal this month. I notice you are trying to restore order to the Mains. I would glad to help you eliminate the gangs there, and grant administration of the district to you."

[Murska]

Wardens to Wardens

Oh, don't worry about that. The main concern for us is stability in this city, and we seek to put down this civil war as soon as possible. You can see how well this goal coincides with the anarchists' methods...

We're most likely going to meet them again.

[Nyrt]

Lord Jove to BlackJack Boys [4]
sirs
I thank you for your swift reply. Another matter of great importance has arisen, however, one which I dare not disclose in mail. I, as well as by good friend Lord StigBalathad, will be visiting to discuss both these matters in private.

Lord Gantris was ingured recently, and recieved quite a few stitches for his troubles. When asked about it, he chuckled and said, "you should see the other guy," nodding towards the taxadermied bear in the corner of his study.

[Greystone]

EBSA Meeting

The Halls of Final Justice bristle with guards, cloaked in Grey and steel as the meeting to decide the fate of the city is set to begin. Guards watch the perimeter, and allow the VIPs and guards of the various factions through with a slight search to assure none of them were carrying bombs or other large area weapons. They are told to meet within the Regency Room, where Chief of Staff O'vail will meet them.

The meeting is now open. If you are sending VIPs, post them as soon as possible- and if you are late, then just assume you've been quiet thus far.

(I will answer the various factions messages later tonight, I just needed to get this thing started :smallsmile:)

[Nyrt]

Bennet Founder's carriage rolled up in front of the halls of Final Justice- an impressive feat, given the sheer volume of guards.
"Pardon me, sir, are you armed?" asked the man at the door.
Bennet Founder looked surprised breifly, an replied, "Of course I'm armed. With the state of this city, what kind of bloody fool wouldn't be?" and proceeded to produce a large crossbow. Aparrently being larger than their regulation, he grumbled and sent it back to the carrige with one of his personal guard, who returned with a crossbow of more modest proportion.

"Sir O'Vail, always a pleasure to see you. It's been, what, three months? Since before the sorcress left us, may she rest in peace, at least. How's life been treating you?"

To technist's guild
I have heard news of your success with producing airships and have a vested interest in purchasing one, and if they are not commercially available, commissioning it's construction.

[Eldan]

The Meeting

A rather tall young man with a fashionable duelling scar on his left cheek walks up to the door. He is wearing simple, but clean clothes: white linen shirt, leather vest, linen pants, wood-and-leather sandals, a strip of black cloth tied around his forehead. In one hand he is holding a walking stick, lazily twirling it around his fingers.
He grins as the door guards stop him.
"Large weapons you say? That is rather a question of definition, wouldn't you say? This knife here?"
He presents one about eight inches long, pulled out of one sleeve.
"Many people would call that large. This one here, though?"
The second knife is more like a triangle of sharpened steel, less than an inch long.
"A mouse might call this large. Few humans would. Say, do smoke and stink bombs count as large area weapons? We should hurry this up, by the way. On my person I have, by the last count, 17 items originally intended to be weapons. And about 12 that weren't but could be misused in a lethal fashion by a scoundrel. And we wouldn't want to keep any of these important dignitaries waiting."

[ForzaFiori]

The EBSA Meeting

when Constantine Richter arrives, he is one of the few ambassadors present that isn't armed. It doesn't worry him much however, because the large orcs flanking him to either side are, with the largest weapons that they can get past the guards (they brought their entire collection, and then let the guards decide what they could bring in). Personally selected by Krodok from his company, Constantine's bodyguards were the elite of the elite, as far as the revolution was considered. After being allowed in, he heads immediately to the Regency room, waiting for the others to arrive.

[Imperial Psycho]

EBSA Meeting

The representative of the Order of the Wren arrives, his face hidden by a fastening of silk below his brown hood. On his chest, the heraldry of the Wren is embroidered. He comes with no guards, nor with weapons. He nods politely at the others present, but does not speak, entering the meeting quietly.

[Murska]

A group of Wardens, armoured and armed with swords, without any fancy trappings, escort a graying man with a brown uniform carrying several medals from previous operations to the meeting.

He salutes the guards, nods as they check him and his men for weapons and passes through quietly. Once he's inside, he starts looking over the other people present, letting no emotions show on his face.

[Grimsage Matt]

The occasional poping of heated water, and the hi8ss of steam, hearlds the arrival of the Technists guild. Coming alone one a single Steamtrike, The "Clockwork Bear" (Matt Rosen), dismounts, and flips a switch. The bike shuts down.

When asked for weapons, he pulls out a assortment of pepper sprays, laughing gas cannisters, a stinkbomb, a steampowered chainsaw, a repaeting heavy crossbow, and several things even he dosen't know what the hell they do. He cheerfully hands them over, and asks the guards to show 'em to their freinds. He didn't bring them for trouble. Free advertising.

[Eldan]

The young man continues talking to the guard.
"Oh, and this, of course." He pulls out a stack of leaflets printed on cheap paper, the ink rubbing off on his skin when he touches them.
"I mean, depending on your definition of "weapon" and "area"... these leaflets can do quite some damage. To people's reputations, for example. Does starting riots and potential revolutions count as an area weapon? Because I think some of these might have done that. So, you might want to confiscate these. Now, if you just give me a minute, I also have some backup leaflets strapped to my leg here, like this."
He talks and talks, pulling out an assortment of strange items as he goes on and unloading them on the guard.

[Grimsage Matt]

Noticing some of the items that the blackfist representive is pulling out, Matt Rosen is almost pulled over. Tech... must study tech....

"Say, mind if I take a look at some of these? Haven't seen 'em in a bit..." The more annoying thing? He says it in a friendly manner, and sounds more intresting in the devices then anything else.

If not stoped, he will pull out his portable tool kit, and start probing and tinkering with some of them (No real effect, Exept he's a VIP worth 3 Technology, so he should know what he's doing."

[Eldan]

(There won't be anything interesting in there, really, from a technological standpoint. Little tricks and harmless things, mostly. Smoke bombs, paint, a few prestidigitations, not much more.

Hm. for the sake of the RP, maybe he has some neat little mechanical things in there. Wind-up toys. Clockwork automata. Magic trick-toys. Anything to divert someone's attention for a minute.)

[Grimsage Matt]

Witen seconds, the entire arsenal is dismantled, probed and reassembled.

"Eh, not much in those. These little smoke pbombs, damn ineffecint, made some adjustments, should last 23.21% longer. Those paint bambs were sloppy. The triggers had a estimated 64.523% failure rate, should be closer to 41.38% now. Those chemicals... you should see a chemist. Half of them don't even do anything, unless you mix them with the other half. The clockwork needs fine tuning. Most of the apprentices make these kinds of toys, and they make 'em in the pub. Good job take on 'em though."
With that, the tinkering by reflex Technist guild leader heads inside.

[oblivion6]

a man of medium build, dressed in fancy clothes arrives at the EBSA building escorted by a pair of well dressed bodyguards. after raising an eybrow at the antics of the technists guild leader and the blackfist brotherhood representitive he heads to the door and says all i have in the way of weaponry is this rapier here...unless of course, you count the hundreds of gold coins in my purse.

to the wardens(murska)
its not much but i was able to direct a bit of funding your way

to doctor vasiri
i am glad the funding i sent you helped, any word on who dumped the bodies there?

in other news i will also be directing a bit of free funding your way

[Zemalac]

To NM020110 (PM)

The Mages Ubiquitous, which the Sifter Magi are a part of, are not a city faction. As such, you are going to have to wait a turn to receive a reply to your message to them.


Scholar's Compass to Librarian of the Elements (ESP-D 2)

If you like, milady. Whatever's out there hasn't been bothering us none, but if you want to go take a closer look feel free.


Peacocks to Doctor Vassari (ESP-D 6)

Speaking to our purses, Doctor? Keep this up and we might start having to like you. The arrangement you propose is an excellent one indeed. After we are finished dealing with the Everdie gang, we will begin forming the foundations for this new structure.


Little Zanchar Market Guard to Doctor Vassari (ESP-D 4)

"You seem to have thought this out rather thoroughly, Doctor," said the Captain of the Market Guard. "The only problem I can see is that with such a profitable arrangement, the Redcap gang will most likely try to muscle in on the action. It might be advantageous to remove them from the picture before proceeding further."


Imperial Third Legions to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 3)

Well, of course we could use more support. However, you have still not told us what your ideals are. You say a hand united can do more than the fingers apart, and this is truth; but you have yet to say what the hand would be doing that would be worth unifying in the first place.


Artists to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 0)

Poetry...now there's a thing worth dying for. And to be sure, your battles have brought many a word to mind. But words writ in flame do not endure, not when stood 'gainst those graven in stone. Desoui knew fire, brother, same as you. The kings of old? They knew stone. Their words endured, even as we now forget the decrees of sorcery.


Wool Street Gang to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 5)

In truth, there is little we need. We have our Dancer and we have our little patch of ground. Only problem we've been having is that wizard fellow over in Annousus--man seems to think we're desecrating the Dancer by living in her head. But he ain't moved on us yet, and we figure he ain't about to try. Though they pretend not to notice 'em, Empty Blood's got everyone running scared over there.


Blackjack Boys to Blackfist Brotherhood (ESP-D 5)

Aye, perhaps we shall at that. We got a lot of wizards wanting to put us down--who is it this time, eh?


Party Internal Council (PM)

Opinion is divided. Most, though, would prefer to ignore the older houses, as they themselves have been ignored for so long. The Lodstrom High Society Club, though, warns that something must be done; House Matoff, at least, is getting restless at being pushed to the periphery of political control.


The Conductor to Sausage Guild (ESP-D 7)

i stUDY THE FloW oF cOin. THiS is wHy I AM IN allscross, anD Why i dEMANd paYmENTs fROm those who pASS thrOUGH MY DOMAIN. i remOVE monEY FROM The suppLy, aNd puT BACK IN DifferEnt cOINs sothat I MaY trAck theM. I HAVE DISCOVERED SoME FacinAtiNg tHINGs. fOR ExaMplE, THERE is someone IN THiS city (aT a GUESS, in dOVEL) wHo iS PRODUCING ThE mOSt amAzing counterfeitS thAT I HAVE EVER hAd the privilege of examining. i WOULD VerY mUch lIKE To meEt whOEVER is MAkING thEm.


Drovers to Champions of Sovereignty (ESP-D 4)

We got [+++ MIL] left after the Guild boys tore through the Deep. There ain't much left of the Associations down there, sad to say. Gonna be a while before the Deep is makin' coin again.

As fer our grievances with each other, those ain't so easily sorted. Animals go astray sometimes, is all, and sometimes prime stock ends up in the wrong yard, you know? And sometimes this is found out, and sometimes sorting it out means sorting out a rude fellow's face. **** happens.


Warden Exarn to Wardens (ESP-D 4)

Glad to hear it. If the anarchists are willing to let us out, we'll make our way over to you soon as we can.


Blackjack Boys to Lord Jove (ESP-D 4)

Stop by any time, milord. You're always welcome here.


EBSA Meeting

The representative from the Shipwright's Guild in Drydock is a broad-shouldered man with skin made leathery by water and sun. He arrives at about the same time as a small, oily man from the Hath Poisoner's Society in Dragonhead, though the two representatives make a point of avoiding each other afterwards.

Several prominent moneychangers in Changer's Row have either sent representatives or arrived in person. Once there, they accumulate in an orbit around Felix Urd, CEO of the Exchange.

The Captain of the Ambassadorial Guard of Embassy Row has arrived in person, accompanied by a handful of his trusted lieutenants. They spend most of their time glaring at a smirking woman who told the guards at the gate that she was here representing "The Andouir."

The Conductor, the secretive wizard who demands tribute from all who pass through Allscross, is (possibly) present. No one really knows what he looks like, so the man claiming to be him could very well be an impostor. Many present approach him, curious to finally speak to such a mysterious person, only to be driven away when they discover that he is, in fact, an extremely boring conversationalist.

At least a dozen people claiming to represent Guild's Row have been turned away at the gate after refusing to give up their weapons.

Davan Eldermoss, Editor-in-Chief of the Bookbinder's Guild, arrives in an elegant carriage along with several personal assistants.

A man and two women that everyone seems to recognize but no one acknowledges arrive together, each one wearing a peacock feather somewhere on their person.

A Dreumont representative is turned away at the gate for making unwelcome sexual advances to the guards.

The elders of the Wrekan family are all present, united in showing their support for the EBSA. Their hated enemies, the Hearthfeather family, are conspicuous by their absence.

Both the Silver Blood Gentleman's Association and the Evening Games Club in Silvathrian have sent esteemed members to the meeting. They are cordial enough to everyone else, but tend to stick to their own company.

It is known by all present that the Annosus Merchant's Society rep was only let in the door because he bribed the right people.

[Grimsage Matt]

When he notices the Bookbinders guild, Matt Rosen starts to worry. Eh, let 'em try and break the prototype, they'll get some of the other stuff. Besides, it (Probobly) couldn't hurt them.

[Eldan]

Blackfist to the Legions [3]

The fist would be fighting of the shackles some would place around the wrist, so that the fingers could then go about their own business again.

We have a simple goal. We don't want an organized city government. We want the people of the districts to rule themselves, at the lowest level. We want family clans, gangs, bands, schools, legions, whatever you want to call them. Not armies, bureaucracies and kings.

To that purpose, a series of decisive, united strikes will be necessary. Then, we can all go about our own business again.

Blackfist Brotherhood to the Poets [0]

But is fire not more inspiring than stone? Do poets not prescribe what lies in the hearts of men, the feelings that flicker and die like flames?

How free are the words, written in stone? Are they not bound in rigid blocks? Or, to use plain language: where you allowed to criticize your king? Were you allowed to write about feelings of pain and sorrow the populace felt, when the taxes rose and the food was gone? No. Because Kings write laws. Laws that serve them, not the arts. Art has to be free. A poet has to write about what is relevant, whether those in power want him to or not.

Words in flames may die, but they can die free, and burn bright while alive.

Blackfist Brotherhood to the Woolstreet gang [5]
You may have what you want now. But make no mistake. Once the democrats have sold their power to the bureaucracy and this so-called King, there will be rules, regulations and boots in the streets. The gangs will fall eventually, one by one.
But if we unite now, all of us, we can win this. We can be free. Just raise a torch with us, brothers.

To the Blackjack Boys [5]
The Librarian of the Elements. Silas Mok was taken down, and you are to follow. We have proof of this. As we said: if you wish help, it can be given.

The Blackfist Boys to the Conductor [7]
We heard you are looking for someone. The widest underground network of the city could be at your disposal, if, in exchange, a few funds could be diverted...

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution:
To - the Legion Gangs (D ESP 7)

Keep in mind when dealing with those anarchists from the north factories that fists are most commonly used for crushing, striking, and feinting, and that this one is no different. They are agents of chaos and disorder, and have no plans to bring safety and peace to this city, only riots and death. If, instead of those miscreants, you chose instead to ally fully with a true government, much more support could be given to the Imperial Third - Anarchists, by definition, don't have the systems in place that allow aid to travel from one section of the city to the other like a democracy does.
-The Ram

[Nyrt]

To Blackjack Boys [pm]
"Good evening, Sir. It is a pleasure to finallyeet you in person. Now, to buisness."
"My men recently intercepted a letter from the Librarian if the Elements to the Mages Ubiquitous. I think I will let it's contents speak for themselves."


The presence of the Blackjack Boys within Redress Street is rumored to be a rather great hindrance to you. Furthermore, it would seem that another faction is seeking to gain influence with them by providing advanced weaponry.

Since previous attempts at subtlety within this city have found deaf ears, I'll make my offer a tad blunt. I will remove the Blackjack Boys from existence, and give you control of the neighborhood. In exchange, you will govern the neighborhood in my name, and support me in my efforts to take control of this city.

This is your chance to gain a foothold within the city. Whether you take it or not is up to you.
"As you can see, this is a serious threat to you and to the stability of the city. As the MU's presence in the city would be disasterous, and this person clearly states that they plan to take the city- this is clear from theif actions of late as well. As this is a severe threat to the city, I will fully support you in defending this area- both monetarily, with militairy force supplied by our personal guards, and with further such information."

"As you can see, it will be vital to be able to communicate without fear of being magically spied upon by either of the two high-magic groups, so that which I mentioned in my letter has become important more now than ever."

Bennet Founder was mildly annoyed when he realized that the man he'd mistaken for O'Vail was in fact an entirely different person who merely looked remarkably similar to him from behind. After apoligising, he resumed scanning the crowd.

OOC: grimsage: did you miss my message to you?

[Grimsage Matt]

Seeing Bennet Founder, Matt Rosen came over to him.

"Mr. Founder, nice to meet you. At this time, our Airships are just Balloons. They've still got a ways to go. We can talk about it, but we're making no promises."

[Nyrt]

"It is good to hear from you directly. I supose in that case, it may be better that I wait to indulge this curiosity, then- I have been quite busy of late, as I'm sure we all have. I still maintain my interest, though."

[Greystone]

EBSA Defense 5

Meeting

The Guards are mostly cordial and polite, but absolutely steadfast to the rules and regulations. For instance, the Blackfist representatives smoke, paint, and stink bombs are confiscated (though he is told to take a number and pick them up on the way out) despite being apparently harmless. Inside, guards dot the corridors and junctions in pairs as aides lead you to the Regency Conference Room, deep inside the Halls, quickly marching them through the maze of halls- not pausing long enough for the delegates to get their bearings.

The Regency Room itself is beautiful, with a gigantically massive oaken table- a relic from the cities more affluent days, with dozen's of chairs and enough space for the guards to stand behind their respective charges. Sitting at the head of the table, in the EBSA's traditional seat (allowing for better mediation) is the grey haired Dekan O'Vail, force of personality easily apparent by his easy stance.

"Delegates. Please sit" he smiles and gestures to the chairs "There is no seats of honor, no special places. In this room we are all equals, and our opinions have every right to be heard. We are here to discuss the future of our cities government- what path we choose. We shall not leave here until a consensus towards a new system is decided upon by a majority of the powerful factions in the city. Who wishes to start the discussion?"

Wardens of Truth and Justice
Fair enough, though we would at least accept your representative.

Lord Wallen
We accept your offer of soldiers to help protect the game.

(You will probably need to add it into your EoT)

Transcript from Anala Weaver's Press Briefing

Do upper members of the EBSA staff eat human flesh while performing dark bestiality filled rituals? I don't know who your source is, but whoever it is obviously thinks our workplace is far more interesting than it is. To make clear, to our knowledge, we have no cannibals working for the EBSA, let alone evil ritualistic sociopaths. Next Question...

[Grimsage Matt]

The Meeting

"Now, I'm not a bigwig, or a mover and shaker. But the Technists guild feels that something must be put forward. We can't let personal feelings into choosing a governing body. Or more accuratly, we have to reach a comprimise, and not go in thinking, how can we get as much power for our fraction as possible? Checks and balances. You people know more about 'em, and I sugesst we use 'em."

[Greystone]

EBSA ESP Def 5

Meeting

Dekan nods sagely as the Technist speaks "I couldn't agree more. I was told by my predecessor that a good compromise is built with everyone coming away not fully satisfied- thus proving that they didn't just get everything they wanted. Now I know there are those who support a democratically elected government- which the EBSA supports, as well as those who wish to reestablish a Monarchy. A balance must be struck for any meaningful peace to be agree upon, and the business of governing the city and providing for its people can be taken up again by a unified body instead of disparate factions."

Church of Neposh
I understand that you backed what remains of the Hearthfeather family. We mean them no harm, and wish that this could have been solved without bloodshed- but they pushed our hand when they refused peace talks. We have extended an olive branch to them, but is there any hard feelings between us?

Heathfeather Family
Our Greycloaks managed to protect several of your noncombatants during the fighting, and they are being held in EBSA custody. We would like to discuss their safe return to you in return for talks of a lasting peace.

[Grimsage Matt]

The Meeting

"Forgive me for puting it bluntly, but theres also the Blackfists. They want it reduced to it's most basic. Now, not saying their views are wrong. But, everyone deserves a choice. Besides, they don't want to stay in the city, we'll help 'em leave. And we have a proposal. Each district elects a representitive, and they form the legeslature. Next, we have the noble houses, who elect a set of folks to act as a review commitie. Basicly, they can sugesst changes to the documents, as well as add comentary. The king or whoever ends up in charge is responsible for then publishing the law. However, if the King wishes to Veto, he can. However, both of the lower houses can call for a General vote. And that will allow the public to vote on the law in question, after a neutral party translates it.

This sound like a good starting point?"

[Nyrt]

I forsee a small problem with a government elected by the people- that is, who would be canidates most likely to be chosen? Those leading the most powerful faction. In this way, whichever faction has the most persistant followers woul win out over whomever is actually more capable. This would simply grant this faction more power. No, I propose a coetocracy- a government controlled by a group of people, representing the different neighborhoods of the city.

[edit] OOC: oh, sorry grimm, didn't mean to step ob your toes there. I started this before your post. Too tired to edit now.

[Murska]

"What the city needs right now is stability and peace. Neither of these are achievable by a government that changes often or includes much room for political jostling for position. If we choose some sort of a council out of every neighbourhood, are they really going to be able to decide on important matters quickly enough to make a difference? Or are they going to devolve into bickering amongst themselves at a moment of crisis? And will all decisions they do make be watered-down into weak compromizes that do not efficiently resolve anything?"

[Thelonius]

Bloodheaven

Sausage Guild/GM [6]

To Sausage Guild,

I have developed a formula, that can be applied to your wells to clear the contamination. It should work in 97% of the cases. Will you undertake cleansing of the drinking water in the Bunkers?

GM: The problem with foul water in the wells still persists, yes? What sort of effect does it have?


EBSA [6]

''I’m currently negotiating cleansing of the water in the Bunkers from its state of contamination.''

''I would like to impress on the factories of the Smokeyards, that they need to improve their safety regulations. I believe that retaining experienced workers, who are currently lost to accidents, would be ultimately financially beneficial to the city’s industry and remove the cost of cripples and orphans, filling our streets. Would it be possible for EBSA to issue an official request for institution of safety regulations?''

City Chief Health Administrator,
Dr. Morden Vassari


Technist Guild [6]

Greetings to the Technist Guild,

I would like to propose a cooperative research into development of mechanical limbs, to give new life to those crippled by the machinery of the Smokeyards and many accidents happening in our city.

If you are interested, how much effort would you be willing to contribute?

Sincerely Yours,
Dr. Morden Vassari


Lord Wallen [6]

I’m greatly distraught by the events at the opening. At this time I can assume, somebody was sending me a message. While I have stayed out of politics, I can’t say the same about staying out of our city’s problems. It’s possible some deranged lunatic, didn’t like the truce I effected in the Old Jack’s Run or perhaps my speech for greater safety regulations in the Smokeyards has rattled somebody’s feathers. Then the Sausage Guild might have thought I was trying to learn their secrets. Well, I do not plan to make any accusations, without knowing the culprit for certain.

I wish I could turn to the city watch with this, but unfortunately no such organization exists. I will probably post a bounty on the head of the criminal and step up protection of my neighbourhood, with whatever muscle I have.

Yours Sincerely,
Dr. Morden Vassari


Little Zanchar Market Guard [4]

''I have considered this problem. My men are needed to protect Bloodheaven Hospital, but I might find another way to see the Redcap Gang removed. What can you tell me about them, their leaders and their weaknesses? And what resources do you have to bear?''


Mercantile Guild [6]

''I’m very grateful for your upcoming generous donation. As for the bodies, I plan to investigate the matter. Unfortunately, it appears I have already managed to make some enemies. I plan to post a bounty on the head of whoever committed this heinous crime and step up patrols around Bloodheaven.''