Total War: Broken City

[oblivion6]

i too believe the council should not be acting as mercenaries and as such i will not even consider sending my troops to intervene. however if you can give me a good enough reason i can be convinced to perhaps sell you arms and armor provided to me by my many merchant contacts. that way no council member needs to be involved with this religious dispute and we still get the money for the road.

however, if any council member is against me dealing arms then i will be happy to drop the issue.

[Greystone]

EBSA Defense 5

Church of Neposh Problem

If the Church does not wish to work with the council on this matter fine, though I for one would be happy to work out the issue. To be honest, one wealth to better your district seems like a small price for bettering the city. If worse comes to worse the plans to divert the road will be examined.

Dreumont

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As you know, we are deeply embroiled in working on cleaning out the Daisong Palace. It may be some time before we can give substantial resources to any other project. Perhaps you could give us a rough strength of these World Breaker group.

Blackthorne, Exodus Carriage Houses

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Let us know when you are ready.

The Silversmith's Guild

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Thank you very much.

Bloodhaven

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Thank you for letting us know about the ambassadorial guard, and allowing us to set up the field office in Frost Cap.

House Wallen

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You feel that a PM is necassary? I do believe we should discuss battle plans.

Council Street

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The EBSA will send scribes with knowledge of city planning to aid in the swift and safe construction of the road.

Militia of Order and Justice

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We will pledge a temp wealth, though it may not be this turn. We have limited funds, and with the council road project we may be a bit stretched.

Esoteric Society of Gentleman Explorers

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We are sorry for the loss of your men, but perhaps there should have been slightly more planning on your part. We hope that more loss of life can be avoided in the future.

[Nyrt]

Esoteric Society of Gentleman Explorers [6]

To Wardens

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Ah, this is welcome news indeed. For ++++ t.wealth, you have a deal.

To Ram Revolution

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I will consider your offer.

To ESBA

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More planning on our end? Good gods, we did all the planning. We did not hear that your council had decided to go into the palace until the morning of the event. You realize that this makes planning an impossibility, and proves to be a tactical nightmare, especially when the reinforcements we were expecting never arrived. If one is to plan, one needs to know what one is planning for. Otherwise, it is all for naught.

[League]

Militia of Order and Justice
[7]

Church of Neposh [7]

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We will help you clear Lead Fellow, but we will require payment. How about 3 temp wealth?

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution

TO: Esoteric Society of Gentlemen Explorers:

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Due be sure to let me know before the month is over. I'd hate to have a lack of planning interfere with your plans again, and the problem IS on the other side of the city.

[Greystone]

EBSA Defense 5

Esoteric Order of Gentlemen

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We made no secret of the mission to go into the Palace. Nevertheless, did you receive any personal confirmation that council troops were going in to aid your assault?

[Nyrt]

Esoteric Society of Gentleman Explorers [6]

To EBSA

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I assure you, sir, that we received word from several groups that they would assist us, and they never sent what they promised. The vote on whether to go into the palace or help us was tied, and nothing was done to break the tie. We were never told what the result of the vote was and, as such, had no way to plan. Had we received what we were promised should the vote succeed and we simply sat back and defended, it would be a waste of the resources. We made plans according to what we knew, but regrettably there were too many uncertain factors.

I tire of this debate. All I wish to say is that I believe the council should endeavor to be more efficient in it's decisions. I do not begrudge you the decision you made, however had the decision been different, it may have spared lives of your men and ours, as we would have been able to aid you in sanitizing the palace as well.

to Ram Revolution

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Ah, so you intend to guilt me into accepting. Very well. I am inclined to accept. I do not actually agree with your group's public political views, however, as I feel a government run directly by the people would be uninformed and inefficient. As such, I would like to know more of your political stance before I accept this offer. I'm sure you understand.

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution:

TO Esoteric Society of Gentlemen Explorers

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In addition to the government by the people that you have already mentioned, our goals include equal rights for all citizens. We do not want to take the rights that the upper class have, only give them to the rest of the population. We also will strive for healthcare and education for all, regardless of income or social status - Once they have the personal available, we will be inviting Dr. Vasari and the Technists to open hospitals and Schools in our territory, respectively. Finally, we will press for wages high enough to allow all citizens to have the free time it takes to be able to participate in government, though getting this to be city wide would require the council, most likely. The goal of a republic is impossible without these, as you mentioned. If a person is unable to understand the political impact of a decision, or doesn't have the time to read a bulletin or vote, or is too sick to, then your government is meaningless, and remains an oligarchy no matter what you call it. My people have begun this already, starting with our beautification process - If a citizens neighborhood looks like the Sky District, they'll expect to have the same rights as those that live there.

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To Dr. Vasari, The Heladuit Court, the Mercantile Guild

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The war makes it...difficult to grow our business to the increased size neccessary to serve foreign interest. The raging war so near neighbourhoods under our influence means many members of the Guild are putting pressure on the leadership to increase the training, weaponry, and numbers of our Guards -- all of which requires money that could otherwise be spent on this endeavour.
In addition, during the last ((Turn)) we detected some concentrated Heladuit efforts to reduce our influence in the neighbourhood: that may have been unintentional and as cause of the war, but we would appreciate if it did not occur again in the future.

[Zemalac]

Shipwright's Guild to Mercantile's Guild (4)

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Very good, sir. We will begin construction at once.

Blackthorne, Exodus Carriage Houses to Mercantile's Guild (PM)

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Time for some housekeeping, then. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

To oblivion6 (GM PM)

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I should mention that since you haven't actually talked to the Craftsman's Guild directly, the information I've given you is based entirely on rumors you've heard.

And yeah, you would be subverting some of the Houses' MOR, but they are still suspicious of each other.

Peacocks, Market Guard to Doctor Vassari (6)

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RE: Security: Sounds like a plan to us.

RE: Road: Market Guard is willing immediately, while the Peacocks take some convincing, mostly because they find it ridiculous that anyone would be asking them to contribute to public works.

Uncle Orville to House Wallen (8)

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Indeed. I'll have some people deliver them as soon as possible.

-Orville

Lodstrom Party Inner Council (8)

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"Aye, we could get something across the lake easily enough. What did you have in mind?"

"Matoff and his cronies aren't worth anything. Yes, they have some traction among the old blood, but they have no appeal out of their own little social circle. Let them rot there."

"And of course you should write a book. Magnificent idea."

Ansigaris to Sausage Guild (7)

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Of course. That would be the logical way to proceed. Do you have any plans for how to deal with the knight in Embassy Row, by any chance? I realize that the stories about him may only be rumors, but...still.

Gerald Neilson to Technists Guild (5)

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Ah yes, the emberlocks and specialty munitions. Those are popular in the Shattered Lands, though we don't get many bulk orders due to the expense involved. Many clients choose to make smaller, more personal orders.

Trait Pricing (Deplorian)
Black Powder Weapons II: What you have. 7 WEL.

Black Powder Weapons III: This allows you to equip specialists and commanders with emberlock weapons, gives you higher-grade artillery and marks the first time you'll see rifling. 10 WEL.

Black Powder Weapons IV: Multibarreled revolvers make an appearance, as well as heavier artillery. More emberlocks begin appearing among your foot soldiers. 14 WEL.

Black Powder Weapons V: Not available for purchase at this time. Consists of experimental weaponry and prototype guns, which tend to malfunction during hard use.

Operator Equipment: Gives your spy types the equipment used by Verdan Operators--flash goggles, respirators, silence-bombs, climbing gloves, articulated scabbards/grips, etc. 6 WEL.

Verdan Munitions: The Monks of the Ascension have a thing for grenades. This trait ensures that your troops have a steady supply of Verdan flayers, burners, breakers, bangers and, if you decide to go for style over practicality, the infamous cussor bombs. 8 WEL.

Cussor One-Shot: This is a one-shot trait that gives you a small cache of cussors. Too heavy to throw out of the blast range, too expensive for normal artillery use, and too uncontrolled for demolitions work, the cussor is nevertheless considered the quintessential Verdan device. Enough force to level a small building, packed into a sphere just a little larger than a man's fist. 3 WEL.

Custom orders/specific devices available upon request.

Ambassadorial Guard to Doctor Vassari (6)

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"Absolutely, sir! The embassy halls have been maintained and patrolled to exacting standards! We've seen to it that they won't need much renovation, sir!"

"As to the rumors of a knight, I can assure you sir that those are entirely false! Absolutely and completely! In an entirely fallacious interpretation of those words, sir!"

To Grimsage Matt (GM PM)

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I should probably mention to you that it is going to cost t.WEL to manufacture the weapons for each trait you sell. Specifically, at the present efficiency of your factories, it'll cost 5 t.WEL per (permanent) trait. Manufacturing one-shot traits (small supplies of grenades and the like) would cost 2 t.WEL.

Verdan Contacts: Wardens PM

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There are several suppliers you could choose from.

Arthis MecLochire is willing to deliver Black Powder Weapons II for 8 WEL per trait-worth, Black Powder Weapons III for 10 WEL, Verdan Munitions (this would be the fancy grenades and ammunition, including cussor bombs) at 8 WEL, and Operator Equipment for 6 WEL.

The West Illum Trading Company is willing to deliver Black Powder Weapons II for 6 WEL per, due to them having the same Imperial Contacts trait as you, and Verdan Munitions at 7 WEL per. Unfortunately, this Company does not have the right permits from the Veras City Council to traffick in emberlock weapons, so you can't get Black Powder Weapons III from them.

Kerriglass Messenger and Delivery is willing to offer Black Powder Weapons I for 6 WEL, Black Powder Weapons II for 9 WEL, Black Powder Weapons III for 12 WEL, Verdan Munitions for 9 WEL, and Operator Equipment at 8 WEL. Each of those prices is reduced by 3 if you order more than 2 trait's worth at a time.

Painted Gangs to Wardens (5)

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Leave? To where? Home's way down south, crazyman. We brought the jungle up here! Why would we leave when you're so much fun?

Hath Poisoner's Society to Wardens (5)

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Hhnnnnnnneseeesst

We shall take our leave of this place; but do not fear, children. We will return.

Kylar DePoche to Wardens (5)

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Most excellent. My will, my arm, and time are yours.

Dozen Dancers, Annosus to Ram Revolution (4)

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The population of Dozen Dancers is happy to host such a building, though the Wool Street Gang is a little leery of defining "criminal" too heavily. In Annosus, the wizard Delathion could care less, and the Merchant's Society seems interested; however, they also warn that the Empty Blood gang would probably burn such a place down simply for the fun of it. The Empty Blood gang, meanwhile, is very encouraging, though they do tend to snigger behind their hands whenever they're talking to your people.

Brotherhood of the Flowering Rose to Heladuit Court (4)

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My friend, your words seep like water into parched earth. Speak ye truth and come bearing gifts, and we shall welcome ye with utmost respect.

Yellow Court to Esoteric Society of Gentlemen Explorers (4)

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My lord, you speak of dreams and fantasies. While they are good dreams, to be sure, we know a lady who speaks in fire and ice; and of her, we are more afeared.

To Thelonius (GM PM)

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Junkers

Zancharian Empire was Bronze Age tech. They did, however, use a different system of magic than the primarily technoreligious-focused enchanters who have taken over the field in the modern era. Zancharian war machines were, in many cases, part beast, or worked on weird magic that involved sacrifice and poetry. The war machines in the Triphage Untima are part bones of great creatures, part petrified trebuchets, and part strange magitech devices that no one has since been able to replicate.

As for how realistic the Junker's Guild is, I could see it happening, though it might take longer than you'd expect since each turn is only a month. Training them up to Neilson's standards is, frankly, impossible, but that's because he works for the mad genius Lucas Deplorian and is used to competence on a near godlike level. There will come a point where he will disgustedly declare them to be good enough and abandon all hope for getting them up to what he considers competent; at that point, they'd probably be the best engineers in the Shattered Lands.

Chronicles II

Damn, you're good. Got it in one. Little pouch on the back of the windpipe--probably made it hard to breathe at all, but in the state he was in he wouldn't have noticed.

This doesn't, of course, at all explain the clear bruising on the exterior of the neck that would normally be consistent with forcible strangulation.

Dycatropic Ludanum

Not particularly easy to acquire--you won't find it in your corner apothecary--but you can get it from drug-smugglers in Heavensgate and Gilded, where moneychangers and craftsmen use its alertness-enhancing properties to work late into the night. And, of course, there are the ever-present rumors that the nobles in Sky and the whores in Painted Court put it to more undiscreet use during the trysts and affairs that the rest of the city assumes they're having all the time.

The drug does not usually make the throat swell like Judge Dreynor's has, though, unless the individual has a particular allergic reaction.

CSI Sav Altulas

Judge Dreynor was working on a case against a murderous scumbag who was accused of torturing and killing several people in Runner's City at the time of his disappearance. Said scumbag was found dead in his cell a day afterwards, with no visible cause of death.

As for the Silvathrien connection, the Judge was an occasional patron of the Evening Games Club, where he was known to be very good at three-ring dragon.

As for the possibility of another lair, you do find several maps in the apartment you searched, but all of them seem to be pointing out locations of brutal murders in Runner's City over the past five years or so.

Esoteric Order of Uncorrupted Designs

They're about as dangerous as any other machine-cult, which is to say, depends on how insane they're feeling this week.

Yellow Court

The Peacocks inform you that your guess was correct. ESGE asked them to help rebuild the library into an institution of learning, to which the Yellow Court replied that they were too terrified of the Librarian to move against her.

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

gerald neilson

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greetings. i heard rumours that you were in town and was wondering if you could provide me with some specially made firepower.

basically what im looking for is some heavier artillery that can be mounted on board my merchant vessels without slowing them down any, that way they can protect themselves from corsairs out in the open waters and still deliver the goods in a timely fashion.

to GM

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i think you forgot my question about how i would go about creating a new VIP if thats possible.

not looking to do this right now, but would the mercs in the city of bells be interested in a contract to train my soldiers? basically looking to increase my MIL as well as perhaps get that trait i would assume they have...the one that makes them count as more than 1 MIL

[Murska]

To GM

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Since all of the orders available are bulk orders, can I choose whichever supplier suits me best at the time, or do I need to pick one and stick with it for some reason?

The West Illum Trading Company seems to be the only one with prices that might allow me to get something sold.

[Thelonius]

Heladuit Court/Silversmith Guild/Mercantile Guild [6]

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''Well, then can Markus Heladuit give his word, that Silversmith’s interests in the Dappled Court wouldn’t be harmed and he’ll give his men orders to try to minimize any damage from the fighting.''

''Both Heladuit Court and Silversmith Guild can descend into a territory war now, wasting coin on mercenaries, weapons and disrupting each other’s buisness. Or you can coexist, perhaps even work together to win great profits and make your work known all across the Shattered Lands.''

Diplomatic Corps

''You may have heard rumours, but a Diplomatic Corps is going to be established. One of its functions would be to promote trade of our merchants. I think there is an excellent opportunity here for Heladuit Court and Silversmith Guild. I’m talking about Ambassadorial clothes and regalia.
By the nature of their duties, diplomats will be mingling with the wealthy and powerful, so if an ambassador is wearing an exquisite costume or perhaps a ring of superb quality, it would be a statement about the quality of your wares.''

''If you each contribute 1 WEL worth of clothing and accessories, it will serve to make our diplomats more impressive, thus allowing them to secure better trade deals, do a favour to the Council and promote your goods.''

Council - Long Term Plans

''I wanted to discuss with the Council some of the long-term prospects of our rule over the city. While I understand, that dealing with threats to the citizenry and establishing order must be accomplished first. But often in the times of chaos and uncerrtainy, just having a vision of the future, of how things should be, can make all the difference.''

''I have drafted a outline for a long-term plan of action here, that I submit for your consideration:''

Vassari’s Plan of Sav Altulas Development

Trade & Industry

The first step to revive the city would be to promote trade. The artisans of the Heaven’s Gate are producing fine goods that nobody outside of the city even knows about and our factory machinery is old and breaking down with age. I have already taken some steps to remedy the situation, but full Council’s support would go a long way to achieving this.

The Factories in the Smokeyards will need to be made more efficient, both reducing the number of accidents and increasing their production. Fortunately, we have Technists Guild that appears to be a moderately sane Machine Cult that can be set to work on it.

The Diplomatic Corps’s Trade Advisors will be working to secure our merchants, markets throughout the Shattered Lands and beyond. The Council’s troops will protect the caravans and travel can be made easy, if with Council’s patronage, an Aeroyard is built and the Shipwright’s Guild constructs a fleet of reliable ships.

Public Projects & Social Change

As the Council would foster the trade and ensure protection of the merchants, we would be able to collect tax revenue that would be spent on schools, hospitals, public works and city expansion.

With proper education and wealth, the public will support and be ready for the necessary government reforms to establish a benevolent and strong state.

Civilian Militia & Foreign Policy

Now, if our city would grow in wealth that would mean a high risk of invasion. The Diplomatic Corps will serve as our first line of defence, averting wars we don’t wish to fight and gaining what we can without shedding blood.

When diplomacy falls, we’ll need an army to defend out city. I propose a formation of Civilian Militia. The Council’s public projects would give people something that they would be loath to lose, if the government is removed from power by foreign intervention. So an edict for every neighbourhood to train a number of militia men, who would be called into service in case of war, would be acceptable to the public.

The Council will need to construct several factories to produce Gunpowder Weapons, creating new jobs and establish a location or locations, where those weapons would be held in the time of peace.

A military academy will be established in the Sky District, so a cadre of officers can be trained to command the militia.

Now in addition to the Militia, who would be called into service in the time of war, the City will also require a smaller professional army to defend our trade routes. Fortunately we already have one – the Wardens.

Magic

I fear if the Librarian falls, the Sav Altulas would lack any truly powerful Mage to defend us against threats of arcane nature. The Council will need to search an appropriate candidate to serve as an advisor and protector, either within the city or luring one into service from abroad.

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To the Heladuit Court, Mercantile Guild, and Dr. Vasari

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That would be acceptable, and of course we could contribute 1 t. wealth towards the ambassador's regalia.

[Ragnar Lodbroke]

To Council and Gentlemen's Esoteric Society

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"Milords, and my dear Council fellows: I believe that an apology is in order. I took too much time to decide. But the events from [last turn] have made me change my mind.
This will not happen again.

The librarian must stop this carnage or be destroyed.

Lodstrom Party will colaborate. We must make battle plans now.

Should we head straight ahead to the University? We could try something else.

I propose to have a closed Council session right now to discuss this matter. Lord Founder would be a special guest of course.

As much as I like open sessions, enemies should not know our battle plans."

"About Dr Vassari's projects, I agree wholy. But I think that the Foreign relations part can wait [a turn or two]. We need to make teh city stable first."

Madame Beteoui

To EBSA

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If the Council and Lord founder accept to have a closed session, then no. If they don't, we must.

To Party inner Council

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To Dwimmercant: "Just some new, flashy toys for some kids I know. They sure look bored, but I believe they will have enough fun in no time.

They will be here [At the end of turn]. I will pay for them, but require your help in getting the toys here with no problems"

"In other issues, Madame Beteoui tells me we require to name Diplomats. We will haev to choose some names outside the Party, for negotiations sake, but most of the proposals will go out from here.

Who do you think deserves it more?

[He proceeds to propose the names from several, skilled Party members, including Lord Orthax.

About half of the proposals are close allies, the other half are dangerous allies, who would do well being away; but are cpable to fall for some extra power.

They are all capable though]"

[HerbieRAI]

To Militia of Order and Justice (desp 7)

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That seems a fair trade, 2 MIL for 3 WEL

[Grimsage Matt]

To gerald neilson

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We'd be intrested in purchasing Blackpowder weapons IV, but after the upkeep for our steam engines, we'd only have 6 t.Wel avilable. Would two advance payments of 5 t.Wel and the final payment due on shipment of 4 t.Wel be acceptable?

To those who wished to purchase Blackpowder weapons from the Technists Guild

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We apologize for the inconvince, but a report has recently shown that our weapons manufacturing abillities are not quite there yet. We will be increasing the factories effecincy, and hope to serve you soon.

To the Rams

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We'll send over 1 t.Wel and 3 Mor to establish the school this month if you want.

[League]

Militia of Order and Justice
[7]


To Council on militia and magic:

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On the topic of creating an arsenal for weapons, the Militia of Order and Justice would volunteer Upperdeck. The Militia has both a high Defensive Espionage and magic law magic wards to protect the weapons from theft.

The Militia employes a fair amount of magic users and we have plans for expanding our capabilities, perhaps we can server as an adviser for these matters.

Church of Neposh [7]

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Then it is decided, the Militia will remove the cult from Lead Fellows. We expect our payment of 3 temp. wealth before the operation of course.

[Nyrt]

Esoteric Society of Gentleman Explorers [6]

To EBSA/council, house Wallen

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"Lord Founder asks me to inform you that he would very much like to have a meeting to discuss plans, however as he has been injured recently, it would be quite difficult for him to leave the Manor. If you would like to join him at Founder Manor, he would be delighted to have you as honored guests for such a meeting.

[Thelonius]

Bloodhaven

Council

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''As for my plan, it's merely a suggestion of Council's long-term goals. We should focus on bringing order to the city for now, but keep in mind the bigger picture and where possible turn the events in the correct direction.''

Esoteric Society of Gentlemen Explorers [6]

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''I've received your message as one of the Councilors and was surprised to read, that being wounded, Lord Bennet Founder hasn't called upon Bloodheaven services to aid in his recovery. While it's understandable to want to tough it out and recover on your own, certainly your Lord would wish to be on his feet sooner and without any lingering consequences.''

''If you decide to accept Bloodhaven's assistance, then while I personally can't make home visits right now, due to certain obligations of very important nature, my best and brightest student Melissa Blaine, would certainly be able to attend Lord Founder.''

Market Guard [4]

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''I'm currently in negotiations with Heladuit Court to open shops to sell their tailor goods to foreign visitors to our city.''

Blackfist Bortherhood [6]

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''Apology accepted. Bloodhaven was going to treat the prisoners, no matter what conflicts are between us, but the donation to help in their recovery is most appreciated.''

Silversmith Guild, Heladuit Court, Lord Wallen, Esoteric Society of Gentlemen Explorers [PM?]

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’’Gentlemen and Sirs. I wanted to ask you a favour. I’m investigating a certain matter, related to drug use of substance known as Dycatropic Ludanum. I will need to make some inquiries in your Districts, and would really appreciate cooperation of your guards, as much as not interfering in my snooping around and providing me information of the said substance use. I seek no trouble and would make no trouble for people of the Heaven’s Gate or Sky. Believe me, this is a matter of importance for the good people of our city.’’

Moneychanger (Changer’s Row) [PM?]

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''Greetings. You may know me. I’m Dr. Vassari. I need to conduct an investigation in your neighbourhood and I was hoping your guards wouldn’t hamper my movements. I intend no ill against any of the moneychangers and in fact simply searching for an unwitting witness of a crime. There will be no trouble from me for you.''

ESBA [5]

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’’No thanks needed for Ambassadorial Guard issue. It’s Council business, so naturally the Bureaucracy would be kept in the loop. I haven’t actually realized, you’ve been in talks with them already.

Halls of Justice/ESBA [PM?]

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Dr. Vassari: ’’I request all files on the Judge Reynor’s last investigation.’’

Evening Games Club [PM?]

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’’Greetings. I would like to tell you, that one of your old patrons, Judge Raynor has died. I’m currently investigating his death and I believe it was related to the last case he was doing. The one, that involved a man, accused of a number of murders in the Runner’s City. Now, the Judge frequented this fine establishment. I realize, thing spoken here are spoken in confidence, but if it would help to locate his killer, certainly you can tell me anything, that the Judge might have mentioned during his last visits, pertaining to the investigation or odd happenings in his life.’’

Peacocks [6]

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''I might not be able to assist in the rooting out snoops right now. I suspect I’ve taken the trail of the man responsible for killing some of my men and your girls a couple months ago. I intend to find him and feed him his intestines.''

GM Only

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[1] I’ve sent message to Gerard Neilson, asking about Messenheiler – how much it really costs and how good it is. Wardens are selling the one they stole for 2 p. Wealth. I want to know, if it’s worth it. Also, how much Gunpowder Weapons II would cost, if bought from Verdan (if they are sold).

Chronicles III

Thanks. I’ve plotted three solo mystery campaigns, and some Call of Cthulhu games, that are essentially investigations.

[0] My VIP is going to be hunting Redeye this turn – everything I do in IC is essentially part of the EoT action. Can I have PM status for all communications Vasari does, related to this case, since it’s essentially him visiting people personally and talking about private matters (I’m not going to sneak in any other stuff there)? I’ll remove the PM markers I’ve placed, if I can’t do it.

[1] Strangulation -> wasn’t the Judge clutching at his throat, when he started to suffocate? I’ve assumed, that when Ludanum burst out and caused an allergic reaction (accepting this theory as valid for now), he started to suffocate. Judge went for his own throat, when he felt suffocation. Maybe he thought he was being strangled by invisible force and in his panic inflicted those wounds on himself.
If bruising isn’t consistent with what the Judge inflicted upon himself, then we have ourselves some dangerous poltergeist. Note – Vasari was present on the scene, so he would have known if bruises were self-inflicted right away.

[2] Was Dycatropic Ludanum sack implanted into the Judge’s throat via surgery (which would have left scars) or via Magic (I assume no scars)? If it was magic, what sort of Magic can do it and can Vassari detect it? I assume being a Doctor in fantasy world means, Vassari is familiar with magic’s effect on body and such.

Also – what sort of magic would allow person to know about another man’s allergies. Granted if this is the case, Dollmaker could have tested it by non-magic means. Anyway. If I determine what magic Dollmaker is using, if it’s not just advanced alchemy, mist and mirrors, I’ll be able to counteract it.

[3] I have Trait: Friends in Low Places. So I should be able to locate the smugglers of Dycatropic Ludanum and question them about any strange customers, who’ve started buying their product. Somebody, who is not part of their usual customer base, started buying at the time I know, Dollmaker came to town (the murders started). Or perhaps somebody who bought the stuff just about the time, the Judge disappeared.
As you’ve described it – there is a limited customer base for this drug. Dealers would probably know each of their clients personally. I’ve sent messages to get full access to Sky, Heaven’s Gate and Changer’s Row. And I don’t need permission as one of the Peacocks to ask whatever questions I want in Painted Court.

I guess the fact, that I helped Peacocks get Opium Dens can be used as a tool of intimidation – if smugglers are unwilling to part with information, I’ll stroke my Peacock feather and warn them, they actually DO want to answer my questions. In the other hand – candy. I suspect that the Ludanum dealers are having trouble, now that there was a crackdown in the Traitor’s Bridge (as I understand the wares are making their way from there). Well, if I get what I want, the man who gets me correct information would have the flow of his wares restored. No questions how – Vasari just can.

[4] If I confirm, that Dollmaker is buying enough Dycatropic Ludanum to suggest he is using it for himself, not just on his vicitims, can I use that fact? If it enhances senses, can a trick with blinding light or loud sounds be utilized? My Pharmacology Trait should give me good idea of how it would be affecting Dollmaker.

[5] I went to Justice Halls (where Judge must have worked) to get records on the Judge’s investigation and that old case.

[6] I’m getting locations of where all the bodies in the cases, where clearly Dollmaker was involved, are buried and digging them up. A lot of time has passed, but an exhumation may still reveal something… I’m tempted to ask necromancers, but after what these people have suffered in life, to disturb them in death would be too evil. Once I’m done, they will be returned to their resting places.
Anyway, let’s check how that guy, who was blamed for murders died. Mysterious deaths in closed cells – not on my watch.

[7] Okay – sent a message to Evening Games Club. I guess his sister didn’t know anything of value. How does one become a member of Evening Games Club or the other one?

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

the council

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i agree with the good doctors goals. i have already commisioned a large fleet of merchant ships for our trade envoys and i am currently in the proccess of strengthening the neighborhood watches already present in the stocks

to GM

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can i have some info on the exchange? i dont recall them being mentioned in the fluff section of the OOC.

also, looking back through my old EOTs i just realized i had only gained 1 MIL from my virtual takeover of the hosts-watch when they had 4 MIL helping me root out the bandit gangs. was curious as to why i didnt recieve the rest

[Nyrt]

Esoteric Society of Gentleman Explorers [6]

to Bloodhaven

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Sebastian looked quite pleased with the letter he delivered. It is commonly known that he and lord Founder's family physician have a keen disliking for one another, though they keep it strictly professional.

Sir,
I would be delighted to accept your assistance in recovery. I will admit to my embarrassment that your institution completely slipped my mind; I have been quite busy of late and had much on my mind.

[League]

Militia of Order and Justice
[7]

Technists Guild [5]

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The Militia is still interested in purchasing weapons, even if the cost is high. We can pay up to t. wealth this turn and more next. Would this be enough for black powder weapons? We can also pay in other ways, say removing an enemy.

The Wardens [6]

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The Militia is still interested in purchasing weapons, even if the cost is high. We can pay up to t. wealth this turn and more next. Would this be enough for black powder weapons? We can also pay in other ways, say removing an enemy.

Merchant’s Society, Annosus

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The Empty Blood Gang's end is near, would you rise with the Militia of Order and Justice when the time comes for there destruction?

[ForzaFiori]

Ram Revolution:

The Ram has ordered Vassari's plan of Sav Altulas Development read out load on every street corner, in every neighborhood that was under his care. A day later, in a speech, he declared "Dr. Vassari, in addition to being a great man, has shown himself this month to be a brilliant one as well. His plan for the development of our city will bring blessings to all! I cannot tell anyone here what to think, or how to act, that's the beauty of the great system we're fighting for, but I will say that I will be supporting Dr. Vassari in his plan, starting right here in Runner's City! Our renovation project is fully underway, and new and better projects are coming soon! Education, Healthcare, and soon, new and better jobs as the prosperity of Runner's City is realized by the rest of the city.

To: The Technist

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Please, keep your money - put it to use developing more of those marvels you're producing. The Revolution will pay for your school, all we need from you are the personal to do the teaching.

To: Dr. Vassari

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Your plan is a work of genius. I will be implementing it in the neighborhoods that I can, as soon as possible. However, to do it completely, I would like to ask you to open a branch of your hospital in Runners City. We would provide ++WEL to the project if you can provide ++ MOR in the form of doctors and nurses to staff it. You can be a miracle worker to the people in Runners City, Dr. Vassari.

To: Esoteric Society of Gentlemen Explorerers:

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RE: Council Invitation
I would be delighted to meet with you. Just let me know the exact date.

[Zemalac]

Gerald Neilson to Mercantile's Guild (4)

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Of course. My primary goal while in the city is to straighten out the mess that the Wardens and Mr. Embler made of our operations here, but I see no reason why I could not also arrange for certain business deals while here. Depending on the size and capacity of the vessels you are operating, I could deliver anything from swivel-guns to larger cannon.

To Murska (GM PM)

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You can pick and choose, though you also might be able to get better prices if you negotiate a sole-trade agreement with one of the suppliers.

Party Inner Council (House Wallen)

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Dwimmercant: "There'll be no problems, of that you can be assured. We'll get your toys to you."

Lord Orthax seems quite taken with the idea of being a diplomat, as do several others named. Overall, you've got a decent mix of political allies and potential problems in the mix.

Gerald Neilson to Technists Guild (5)

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Multipart payments are entirely acceptable, though please be warned that I will not ship until the entire payment has been received. It will take some time to assemble the order anyway, so this shouldn't be too much of an issue.

Market Guard to Doctor Vassari (4)

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Wonderful. More business to the district.

Moneychanger to Doctor Vassari (PM)

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So long as you don't attempt to break into our vaults, our guardsmen will give you no trouble. If you are moving about suspiciously on the street, however, be warned that you may be questioned by the Ansigaris.

Evening Games Club to Doctor Vassari (PM)

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Ah! Terrible news, terrible indeed. We feared that something might have befallen old Dreynor when he stopped coming to our game nights, but to hear it confirmed is sad indeed.

I am afraid we might not be able to assist you very much. We have a strict no business policy at the Club--it is a place to get away from the pressures and travails of life, not to extend them. No one talks about business here or, indeed, much of their personal lives. No one wants to be reminded of the state of their marriage or their disgraced children on game night.

Peacocks to Doctor Vassari (6)

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Really? In that case, by all means, get to the intestine-feeding. If there is anything we can do to help, simply ask.

To Thelonius (GM PM)

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Messenheiler: Named after the master craftsmen who built them, only fifty of these pistols were ever made, most of which are lost or destroyed. Messenheiler pistols forgo the more usual firing mechanisms for a magical one (that is to say, they use an emberlock mechanism), where a spark is generated directly in the barrel by an enchantment on the gun every time the trigger is pulled. The lack of a flash pan or hammer assembly gives them a very sleek and streamlined appearance, instantly recognizable by anyone familiar with firearms. Many others have tried to copy Messenheiler's style after his death, but all of his imitators suffer from various problems that render them less effective than normal firearms--some have a short delay before they will fire, some will shock the user if the weapon gets wet, things like that. True Messenheiler guns will not misfire, powder in them will not get wet, reloading takes a fraction of the time, and they fire with a very distinctive, partly-electrical sound. 2 p.WEL would be quite a bit of money for such a weapon, however--Neilson suggests that he, personally, would buy it for 5 t.WEL, to add to his collection, but will also admit that he would be willing to pay far more than it is mechanically worth simply for the collector's value.

Neilson is willing to supply Black Powder Weapons II for 7 WEL.

Chronicles III

[0] Sure, why not.

[1] The strangulation marks are definitely not self-inflicted, though the scratches on his throat where he clawed at it are.

[2] It seems to be sort of half and half. There is faint scarring, but much less than you would expect. It's either surgery assisted by minor healing magic, or some kind of corrupted blood magic.

No magic that you can think of would allow you to detect someone else's allergies.

[3] It's the smuggling business. There are a lot of stories about selling to sketchy customers, as well as a few darker tales of shipments that simply vanished before arriving in Sav Altulas. One story in particular stands out, of a smuggler known to deal in dycatropic ludanum found dead in a rowboat on Lake Brecombe, blood running from his eyes like tears. None of his inventory was ever recovered, and most suspect it's at the bottom of the lake somewhere.

[4] It is unknown how much ludanum the dead smuggler on the lake was carrying, though rumor has it that it was quite a bit. More than any one person would ever need, to be honest.

If Redeye is using dycatropic ludanum, then yes, sudden lights and loud noises would be more jarring, as well as unexpected pain. Habitual users may become inured to these effects, however; such tactics would work better against someone using the drug for the first time.

[5] I'll tell you the results of this if the EBSA agrees to let you at their records.

[6] To dig them up, you'll either have to get permission from the churches who mantain the cemetary in Mendicant's Field, go there at night and dig them up yourself, or hire this guy. The man who died in the cell is buried there as well.

[7] Yeah, the Judge and his sister weren't particularly close, unfortunately. As for the Evening Games Club, membership is by invitation only. The main restrictions are that you have to be at least semi-respectable, and have to live in Silvathrien. Being recommended by a current member also helps.

To oblivion6 (GM PM)

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If I did miss answering your question, my apologies. Recruiting VIPs is either done through gameplay (Malcolm Exarn, former head warden of Gatehouse Prison, joins the Wardens) or by deliberately trying to recruit one (Doctor Vassari cultivates a student following in the hopes of finding some particularly bright students to assist him in his medical duties). That sort of thing.

The Laheim would most likely be willing to train your soldiers, but the reason they have that particular trait is because they literally spend every waking moment training. They are martial arts experts, except with swords, bows and any other weapon they can get their hands on. It takes a while to impart that sort of training, to say the least.

Second Message

The Exchange is a faction that was formerly run by WrathOfLife. He dropped out after turn one, and they became an NPC. Info about them can be found here.

The MIL you gained from subverting the Host's Watch represents the portion of their forces that are always on call should the Guild need them. The rest are occupied with doing what the Host's Watch has always done, namely patrolling the Traveler's Quarter.

Annosus Merchants Society to Militia of Order and Justice (6)

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We would like to, really we would, but the threat of reprisal from the gang is too high. Empty Blood is a terror and a plague, and even saying those words to you may very well get me killed by them.

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

to gerald neilson[4]

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our merchant vessels are to be based upon the imperial cutters of this design. [presents design papers from shipwhrights guild]

whatever you believe is best suited for them is fine. what kind of price are we looking at here?

to GM

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okay, so just to clarify. the host-watches 3 remaining MIL would serve to defend the neighborhood should it be attacked?

could i use my ESP to "steal" MIL from the various bandit gangs in the shattered-lands? basically what i did to you in 2126

also, how well armed are the warlords? would they be willing to buy arms from me, or do they prefer the powder weapons?

[Greystone]

EBSA Defense 5

Halls of Justice/Bloodhaven PM?

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Dekan: Judge... Dreynor? That is not a name I have heard in over a year. There was quite the investigation. Here is our file:

He vanished a while back, a week after his son died in a house fire; his wife went missing a day after he did. At the time of his disappearance, he was working to prosecute a scumbag from Runner's City who was accused of multiple instances of torture and murder. It was known among the EBSA at the time that the evidence against this man was circumstantial, and that he was most likely innocent of the majority of the charges, but it was deemed essential that something be done in order to restore order in the increasingly-panicked Lower City in the wake of the murders. After Dreynor's disappearance, the man he was prosecuting was found dead in his cell without a mark on him. After an inconclusive autopsy, his remains were interred in Mendicant's Field.

At the time we assumed it was the Heartspears but recent information, along with some gaping holes in the case seem to throw shadow onto that assumption. I hope this helps. If you catch a lead, let us know.

Esoteric Order of Gentlemen

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We will send Press Secretary Weaver. All other staff are rather busy at this time.

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

To Dr. Vasari

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We will issue such orders to our guards, and we hope that the investigation bears much fruit.

[Grimsage Matt]

To Those wishing to buy Technist Guild Firearms

We will sell Blackpowder weapons II for 5 t.WEL. This is the cost for us to produce it.

To the Rams

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Very well then.

[League]

Militia of Order and Justice
[7]

Technist Guild

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Excellent, we will purchase Black powder weapons II.