Total War: Broken City

[puppyavenger]

Gears Chosen (8)

To Mendicant Necromancers

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A sticky problem indeed, although surely there are more then enough carcasses accumulated through the ages to satisfy your demand? Regardless, the problem is a difficult one. I am travelling north on other business soon, perhaps I may meet with you in private to discuss a solution that won''t be imitatively intercepted?

Joshua

to UAL

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We have no issue with that, and if you can keep the local workforce compliant and efficient in the service of the Divine, we see no problem with you continuing to provide organization for the manual labour needed. However, you understand that there are those among the workers, malcontents and the lumpen certainly, but numerous, who have problems with your way of running things. If we are to continue you monopoly on organization, and indeed expand to any other regions eventually brought into the service of the Supreme Will, we must ask for certain concessions. I will of course be open to negotiation, and would like to meet in private to discuss them.

Joshua

To Dreumont

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Joshua arrived in Icy Mount alone, or at least with no obvious escort. Clad in robes brought with him from the courts of Elsiner, he nods at whoever is sent to greet him and says Ah, it is good to see cultured gentlemen such as yourselves. Before we can begin to talk of business, may I request the simple luxury of a tour of this wonderful district?

To Militia

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Very well, we will pay in two kinds, as it were.

[OOC] 2 MIL and 2 WEL this turn for the immediate delivery of the designs?

To Mercantile Guild (PM)

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Ah yes, you will stop as soon as you reach your "natural border". And once you reach it, I'm sure you'll fine that you suddenly have interests in rooting out crime in Runners City, or bringing the Wardens under civilian authority, or whatever excuse in convenient.

And you wish to pay us in gold and paper instead of blood? Very well, then let us speak of quantities. A modest blood price instead of turning over the traitors, and all the schematics, plans and holy texts you have, or comparable values of gold. So tell me, how many such texts do you retain?

To Bloodhaven, Champions of Sovereignty, Church of Neposh, ESGE, EBSA, House Laurier, Heladuit Court, House Wallen, Sausage Guild, The Silversmith's Guild, The Wardens (separately)

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Greetings, at the moment we have no real quarrel with any of you, and many of you have resources which would be very helpful in realizing the will of the Divine. Therefore, we would simply likely open diplomatic contact and begin cordial negotiations about deals which will help realize the Supreme Vision

Joshua

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

gears-chosen/GM[PM]

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i unfortuanatly cannot deliver any gold this month as all resources are used up already. regarding the texts, let me review my notes real quick to see what the inventory looks like.

GM: how many of the holy texts, design schematics and documents do i retain from the original gears-chosen?

[Greystone]

EBSA (7)

Blackthorne and Exodus Carriage Houses

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I understand that there has been some sort of deaths within your district- I don't know whether it was one of you or if it was an outside faction. I swear to you if you want the EBSA's aid to find who did this, but we have a greater problem. The Mages Ubiquitous Shaker Mages are in force in the city and they threaten every child, every district, every faction. I come to both of you to ask for your aid- in ferrying friendly soldiers quickly to battle, bringing wounded soldiers and innocent civilians out of the fire, and transporting refugees to safety.

Will you help?

Wreken Family

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Allies, friends... a threat has arisen that we did not even imagine. The MU Shaker Mages threaten not only us but every district, every faction, every person in the city. Will you send us aid in any way you can?

Bookbinders Guild

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I don't think we have to explain to you why the MU are a threat to the entire city. We wish the printing presses to burn hot, pouring out literature to galvanize the public, the common man to volunteer- to help the factions of the city fight back this threat and show that the Council (and EBSA) are doing everything they can to protect them?

Can you do this?

Also we are setting up a field command post in our Field Office in the Mewlings with your permission.

Blackfist Brotherhood

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We understand that our ideological views are not precisly... popular among your faction. However I propose we put that aside for now for the good of the people of the city. We appreciate that you are establishing housing and refugee camps for the disposed, but that still leaves us with MU on the cities doorstep. Can you send any aid?

Bloodhaven

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We are turning our Field Office's in Scholar's Compass and Guild's row (and to a lesser extent the Mewlings) in field hospitals. We do not have the medical personnel to help all the refugees or enough medics on the battlefield. Can you send aid to help us against the MU threat?

The Gear's Chosen

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The MU are a threat to the entire city- every district, faction, and child. We are asking as much aid as possible- whether in military or simply support to protect the people of Sav Altulas.

Heladuit Court

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The MU threaten not just the council, not just Dogma- but the entire city: every man, district, and faction. Can you give us any aid in support or military forces?

House Laurier

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The MU threaten not just the council, not just Dogma- but the entire city: every man, district, and faction. Can you give us any aid against this destructive foe?

Mercantile's Guild

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The MU are a threat that could be a danger not just to the council forces but to every district, individual, and business in the city. We will need as much support as possible to drive back this threat. Can you offer any support in financing, military, or refugee support?

The Technists Guild

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The MU are a dangerous new player who threaten not only the Council forces- but every district, faction, and piece of technology in the city. Hundreds are already dead, and it will only get worse unless we band together to protect the city.

The Silversmith's Guild

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The MU are a threat that could be a danger not just to the council forces but to every district, individual, and business in the city. We will need as much support as possible to drive back this threat. Can you offer any support in financing, military, or refugee support?

Host Watch

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The MU threaten the entirety of the city, and if we don't stop them every district will burn. Any aid, small or large, could help turn the tide.

Drover’s Associations

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The MU threaten the entirety of the city, and if we don't stop them every district will burn. Any aid, small or large, could help turn the tide.

The Roper's Watch

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The MU threaten the entirety of the city, and if we don't stop them every district will burn. Any aid, small or large, could help turn the tide.

Gatekeeper’s Guard

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The MU threaten the entirety of the city, and if we don't stop them every district will burn. Any aid, small or large, could help turn the tide.

Ansigiris

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The MU threaten the entirety of the city, and if we don't stop them every district will burn. Any aid, small or large, could help turn the tide.

Ambassadorial Guard

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You are a strong organization, second to none in order and discipline. You must recognize that the MU are a threat that could lead to the destruction to every district, faction, and individual in the city. Can you offer any aid whether with your peerless military might or support capabilities?

Letter to the Merdallan knight

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We aren't sure of your motivations, but surely you recognize the threat that the MU pose to the people of the city. All we can ask is for your aid in driving these murderous fiends out of the city.

Blacksbrace Gang

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Your mistress has gone insane, and her kingdom is crumbling around her. She has thrown her lot in with a dangerous organization which can, and have, destroyed entire districts. Rise up! Show that you will not be slaves to a maniac and can choose your own destiny. For your own survival we beseech you.

Millford Standing Guard

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The MU threaten the entirety of the city, and if we don't stop them every district will burn. Any aid, small or large, could help turn the tide.

The Peacocks

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You are the unsurpassed owners of the vices in this city, but you must have customers to entice and a district to call home. The MU could destroy every district and individual if left unchecked. We are looking for any aid possible to alleviate the suffering of the refugees and wounded soldiers and to support the combat troops. Will you help?

The Dreumont

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The MU threaten the entirety of the city, and if we don't stop them every district will burn. Any aid, small or large, could help turn the tide.

Market Guard

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The MU threaten the entirety of the city, and if we don't stop them every district will burn. Any aid, small or large, could help turn the tide.

Silver Blood Gentleman’s Association and the Evening Games Club

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We spoke with you about setting up a Field Office, and since then we have gotten along excellently as neighbors. However now that the MU has revealed themselves we must become bothersome. We are asking for aid against this threat that can destroy districts and factions alike. Whether through funding, support for refugees, or military support. Could you help the cause?

Delathion

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Your prowess is well known, and a man of such intelligence and wisdom must know about the threat the MU are to the entire city. We are creating a coalition to support the troops already on the ground to eradicate them. Can you help?

Annosus Merchant’s Society

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The MU threaten the entirety of the city, and if we don't stop them every district will burn. Any aid, small or large, could help turn the tide.

Downline Mages

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The MU threaten the entirety of the city, and if we don't stop them every district will burn. As mages, you are threatened more than the common folk as they will come and rip your magic away. Any aid, small or large, could help turn the tide.

[Eldan]

Blackfist to the ESBA [6]

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Certainly. A threat to the city is a threat to all. We will send troops, experienced urban fighters all.

[6 military and a high level VIP can be ready]

[Greystone]

EBSA (7)

Blackfist

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Thank you. As of now most of the fighting is in Dogma, but as plans change we shall keep you informed. We also suggest that any mages you have be used to protect your troops from magical attack- things are getting vicious.

To Combined Forces against MU and Librarian

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I have sent out the call for aid among almost every faction in the city. Already the Blackfist brotherhood has pledged six military of urban fighters to the cause. We can crush these dangerous Shaker Mages before they can damage more of the city and kill more people.

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

To the Gear's Chosen

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"I will gladly work with anyone who strives for the good of the people. My resources are a bit tied up with the librarian at the moment, but I will gladly discuss any idea you had in mind."

To House Wallen [PM]

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"Please, Madame, I ask for your patience. I must gather more supporters, and I only have enough time to speak to so many people."

"If you wish to help, I would grateful if you could locate an orator for me. I have the money to hire one, but no idea where one of quality might be found."

"As to your meetings, your party possess a great deal of power, and I wish to reassured you are using it wisely."

To the Sovereign Guilds Association [PM]

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"I'm a good man, my actions over the past few months have demonstrated that. I have devoted every asset I own into restoring this city, and will continue to fight for the good of the people until my last breath."

"But, I'm not going to pretend I've proven myself worthy of taking the throne. It has been five months, and the time it would take any man to prove himself to that degree is time we do not have."

"I'm asking you to trust me. Yes, you have very little information to go on, but what other choice do you have? The Council will not work as a long-term solution, and democracy will not work at all. Find me a better system, or a better man to serve as king, and I will support them. Until they emerge, I am the only candidate."

"Since you brought up my bloodline, I'll explain the benefit it does provide. The first is inspirational magic, the power to fill men's hearts with courage, to counter fear and terror. The second, is the respect of the nobility. The majority of them have already sworn their loyalty to me."

[Eldan]

Blackfist Brotherhood to the EBSA: [6]

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We don't exactly have a lot of mages, and those we have are more skilled in infiltration and distraction than anti-magic. If you could organize some help there, it would be much appreciated and go a long way towards establishing some trust.

[Greystone]

The EBSA (7)

Blackfist

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We will try, but our own mages are limited. If no magic comes forwards we can offer one unit of mages to you. We just want to help the people of the city, and I hope to prove that no matter how this conflict goes- the EBSA always tries to look out for the people.

[Thelonius]

SGA [PM]

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Vassari coughs politely. ’’Your majesty. Being a good man is an admirable quality, and it would be most welcome one in a ruler. But it doesn’t make you the king of Sav Altulas. By reputation alone Militia of Justice or Bloodhaven stand more prominent.

''I don’t know whether your rule would be stronger and more stable than our current situation. The power of monarchy is the power of the king. So are you a strong king?''

''And what would you require of us? And what would you do to protect our interests and the interests of Sav Altulas?''

[ArcaneStomper]

SGA (PM)

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Bloodhaven rumbles from his end of the room, "You say you do not have time to prove you are worthy of being king. I disagree. Anyone can align their plans over months and years. A true ruler is one that can adjust their plans for all occasions. One who can solve problems as soon as they arise. You do not become king and then take your time in proving yourself. The very act of proving themselves is how a king should obtain their crown in the first place."

"As to pledging loyalty to you I ask why. As the good doctor has already said you are by no means the most good man in this city. And your personal power base is not worthy of a king. Any one of our guilds can match your organization, and combined we can probably take the entire city."

"As you say the council has done nothing to lend any credence to itself, and a democracy would be disastrous, if only because the citizens could not agree with each other enough to make it work. But those are not the only options. The guild could run this city. We are already planning to revitalize its economy and make it a beacon of civilization and trade in these lands. Why not go a step further and make it a city of guilds."

Bloodhand eyes the other representative at this then looks back at the would be king.

"And you ask us to give up such plans. To give up the freedom to act that we have not had for over a hundred years for what. For the promise of your blood." The huge guildmaster rises to his feet towering over the room. "Let me tell you boy. I do not deny the power of blood. It is more strange and wondrous than you know, and my guild work with it more closely than any others. If you really believe your blood has power, then let my shapers test it."

With a movement far faster than seems possible for one of his bulk Bloodhand unsheathes one of his huge cleavers and swings it across the room towards James. Stopping just as abruptly within easy reach of the young man Bloodhand angles the razor sharp edge upwards.

"So what will be boy. Either give your blood or stop harping on your lineage and the majestic authority of kings and give us a proper plan which shows us why we should listen to you."

[Copper8642]

The Heladuit Court

D. Esp: 4

SGA [PM]

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*Javier sat quietly as the other members of the Guild chewed out the newly arrived king, until came his turn to speak.*

"Excuse me, but is that any way to treat a guest? It's poor manners to treat any new arrival this way, no matter your class, their class, the manner of their arrival, or your preconceived judgements of eachother. Maintain your dignity regardless of the actions of others. It is both good manners and good business practice. If a man comes in offering you a deal you won't agree to, even if he does so multiple times, you turn him down respectfully. You do not ask him if you can take a blood sample with a cleaver. I hope we can agree to this as a Guild.

As for my piece, I actually trust King James currently, even if it is out of necessity of my position. You will remember that the Heladuits are nobility, and Markus has accepted an offer of sorts from James here, a sort of alliance. This does not, of course, mean the Guild itself must follow suit with the actions of my family, but there are those among us who hold some amount of trust in him and his actions."

EBSA

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I've neither seen nor felt the repercussions of their actions. My people are busy, I'm busy, and frankly I don't see a reason I would need to assist you short of a generous mood.

So try and make me generous. What exactly have the MU done that I should care about? And what are you doing that makes me want to support you?

Gears Chosen

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Consider the diplomatic channel open. Now, in the future, if you are going to waste my time by having me open and read a letter that serves little actual purpose, don't. I could have spent those 45 seconds far better. If your letter is going to actually *contain* any sort of deals, suggestions, or news, you feel free to send another letter. Until then, silence.

[ArcaneStomper]

SGA (PM)

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Bloodhand turned his head, but kept his cleaver where it was.

"Ah but he's not a guest is he. He was not invited to the meeting. He didn't even wait to be invited in once he arrived. He simply burst in on a private discussion. I don't know about you, but I would hope any potential king would have more decorum than that."

"In fact how do we even know this is the Would Be King James. I've never seen him before. He hasn't offered any proof of identify. The first thing negotiators should do when asking for such an alliance is to prove that they are indeed who they say they are. True we did not offer each other such proofs, but we are simple private citizens discussing private guild business. He claims to be the king, and as such must be held to a higher standard. And since his claim to kingship is based in blood, so too must that blood be tested. This is simply that proof of identity. If he is not willing to take it then he must speak to us as a simple citizen with a plan to convince us rather than banking on his possible kingship."

"I will also have you know that the Sausage Guild runs a clean shop. All our tools are enchanted to remain clean and sterile. I would not hesitate to match this cleaver against any of Dr. Vassari's tools. The preperation of the cities food demands nothing less after all."

"I am sure that Dr. Vassari could take his blood in cleaner less painful way, but there is something symbolic in a king willing to shed blood for his people."

[Thelonius]

SGA [PM]

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''I have actually extended an invitation to King James, since he informed me, that he wanted to speak of some matter of importance to the Guilds. I admit, his entrance, such as listening in on our private talks, was rather discourteous.''

''I’m willing to put more trust in King James, with Heladuit Court’s assurances, but I would like to hear him speak of his plans in his own words. If King James refuses to give blood to the Sausage Guild I’ll feel no less of him.''

''As for the rule of Guilds, I don't want to create a false impression in our guest, that we here plot something like that. If that is what other Guilds wish, then it must be put for a vote, before we speak of such matters outside this meeting.''

[Copper8642]

The Heladuit Court

SGA [PM]

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Don't turn away anybody who lacks an invitation so quickly though. They are still your guest, at least until you politely ask them to leave. If we were to ask him to leave, even I'd agree with that. This is a meeting of guilds, and he is no guild leader or representative.

As for his identity, you can take my word that it is him you'll take it. Even if you won't, I doubt extorting him for proof is your most reasonable option.

And another rule for both personal etiquette and business sense: don't hold others to a higher standard than you hold yourself to. If you set a bar that others fail to achieve, you may look upon them with disappointment. If you hold them to a standard above the standard you hold yourself to, you have no ground to stand on. You say he needs to do these things if he wants to be king of this city. Should we not have the same responsibilities if are to make this a city run by the guild?

Finally, if you cannot be convinced that demanding a man's blood is at the very best uncouth, maybe you can be convinced that a merchant union should always act as efficiently as possible. Using surgeons tools for the job would be most efficient.

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

To the Sovereign Guilds: [PM]

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James visibly quivers as the axe hurtles towards him, just managing not to jump back in fright. Staring straight at the tip the whole time Blood-haven speaks, James takes a moment too long to respond, and when he does so a slight tremble can be heard in his voice.

"I... yes. If necessary, you may shed some of my blood. I doubt their is surgical equipment here, so let it be by cleaver."

James steels himself, resolute to keep a straight face through the pain.

[Greystone]

The EBSA

Heladuit Court

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You have not felt them yet... because they have not left Dogma yet. A battalion of powerful magi has the power to render this city uninhabitable one district at a time. We must prove to them and the world that no matter our differences we band togethor in times of crisis.

If the opportunity to save lives doesn't make you generous then I suppose nothing shall.

[ArcaneStomper]

SGA (PM)

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Bloodhand nods his head at the prince. His estimation of the boy going up slightly. With a twitch he nicks James hand. Surprisingly enough the cut is painless and rather than spilling on the floor the blood runs down the cleaver revealing intricate engraved runes before filling a small pouch Bloodhand attached to the hilt.

Putting the pouch away Bloodhand sheathes the still gleaming cleaver and turns to the other. "And that is why I used the cleaver. Efficient as a surgical tool might be I doubt any of them are enchanted to the same extent. We cut living creatures every day. To cause them pain would just make our jobs difficult, and cause them to suffer unduly. We also channel blood to the shapers every day. Thus all our cleavers are enchanted to be painless and able to channel blood cleanly."

The giant sits back down and looks down the table more amicably. "To be truthful I do not expect the blood of kings to hold any real power. But the fact that you're willing to face the prospect of pain and blood, even when only one man asks it of you, means you've passed my test. I do not promise my loyalty, but I am willing to listen to what you have to say."

[Nyrt]

Esoteric Society of Gentleman Explorers [6]

Those united against Librarian and MU

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If you would care to join me at my manor once again, I would be happy to discuss our strategy further.

Gear's Chosen

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I am terribly sorry, but I am quite busy, and as such will be unable to speak further with you at this time.

[Copper8642]

The Heladuit Court

SGA [PM]

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"Your methods are coarse, but intriguing. I am satisfied with the outcome of your gambit."

*With that Javier sat back down, and looked expectantly at King James.*

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

to EBSA

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all my resources are tied up in beginning the fight to make the shattered-lands safe once more, however i might be able to divert something to help you but understand it wont be much.

SGA[PM]

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general Brador just leans back in his chair, crossed his arms at his chest and put his feet up onto the table as he watches the event unfold, having already said his part in regards to the king.

[Zemalac]

Brotherhood of the Flowering Rose to Heladuit Court (PM)

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Wonderful. Simply exquisite. Come, let us eat, and speak of weighty matters.

I am afraid you may have misspoken; the Righteous Army follows Telen Kosh, not Kelen Tosh. He is a prophet from ancient times, a man that the Army claims has been reincarnated into their current leader; a fool of a man who is nothing more than a puppet for the elders who conspire behind him. While not harmless, they are certainly no real threat.

The Defeated are another thing entirely. They follow Drowning-in-Snow, one of the Elsinier gods, and practice all the brutal rituals that frost worship implies. Some of them are also known to follow Blood-in-Black-Water, the worst of the northern gods. Step carefully around them, friend, for their sorcerers are powerful and their kindness lacking.

Warlords to Mercantile's Guild (PM)

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Agia Lonecutter: ...Absolutely.

Maximillian Greeves: Well, I'd be happy to help you out, but I must warn you that you really shouldn't trust the Witch's Brother with this sort of thing. He's just as likely to betray you and take everything from your caravans.

Cord Witchbrother: I could say the same about you, friend.

Sakel-Doge: I don't believe you actually have any caravans that pass through my lands, but I am always happy to accept gifts.

The Dove to Sausage Guild (PM)

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Well, I, uh, I'm honored, of course. Of course. But, uh, I must ask, magic? That seems unreliable. Put faith in metal, not words of power.

The Exchange to Sausage Guild (6)

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The Exchange, through the Mint, is already in command of Altulan currency, with warrants of coin going back as far as Talidor. I do not see what is wrong with the current coinage, but if a new system is being proposed than of course we should be a part of it.

Your humble servant,
Felix Urd

OOC: The Exchange is already in control of the current currency of the city, through the traits The Mint and Sanctity of Money.

To oblivion6

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I could see it being possible, but the event would be fairly traumatic. The problem might be alleviated soon, though--I'm considering giving Traitor's Bridge a stat cap bonus, which it currently doesn't have.

And yes, the road does need a bit more WEL to be completed, though perhaps not as much as last time.

Lodstrom Party Internal Council (PM)

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The term "civil war" makes a lot of people very uncomfortable. It is generally agreed that there will be some sort of conflict, but few believe that outright war will occur among the nobility.

Mendicant Necromancers to Gear's Chosen (8)

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Sounds like a plan. We await your arrival most eagerly.

UAL to Gear's Chosen (2)

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If they's someone down on da factory floor what has a problem wid the way we do tings around here, den we can just have Ricco stop by and explain tings to dem. I'm sure dat won't be a problem. Ricco's a gentle man, see? Kind and understanding as dey come.

If yous want ta talk face ta face, stop on by da Union Office sometime. I'll tell my boys that you ain't to be troubled.

Dreumont to Gear's Chosen (PM)

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Of course! Though I must ask, by "district" do you mean Icy Mont, or the entirety of the Untima? We have been having...difficulties with some gentlemen in Old Jack's Run of late, and I would rather not impose our troubles on a guest.

Blackthorne and Exodus Carriage Houses to EBSA (6)

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We'd really, really appreciate it if you wouldn't investigate the matter, actually. Just sweep it under the rug and we'll keep on with the business of living, aye?

As for the MU, if you think for a second that we're getting anywhere near shakers on the prowl, then you've got another think coming. We'll move people around, fine, we'll carry messages, fine, we'll fight off bandits who want your mail, fine. That's what we get paid to do. But you can't get paid if you're dead.

Wrekan Family to EBSA (7)

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We will do what we can, little though it may be.

Bookbinder's Guild to EBSA (7)

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We will make it so.

Host's Watch to EBSA (7)

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We will defer to our sponsors in the Mercantile's Guild on this matter.

Drover's Associations to EBSA (4)

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What? Are you serious? Is...is this some kind of a joke? We herd cattle, man! We don't fight insane wizards, we fight cows! What the **** do you think we could do against ****ing shakers? Are you insane?

The Roper's Watch to EBSA (7)

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We would need confirmation from Guy Laurier before moving, but we'd be willing to help.

Gatekeeper's Guard to EBSA (7)

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If they come down to Gateway Milanus, then we'll fight them. Otherwise, we have orders from Imperial First to stay put for now. Direct your questions there.

Ansigaris to EBSA (7)

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Uh...right. Hang on, let us check with Bloodhand.

Ambassadorial Guard to EBSA (6)

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We do not have the resources to fight things such as this. We will hold the Embassies against all foes, but dare not leave the Row. We would be willing to provide logistical support, however.

??? to EBSA (7)

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A note, slipped under the door.

Vobis timent superabundarent. Magos sunt sed fures, attendentes ad comminuent et conscelerate vos in ignaviam et inconsulte responsio ita ut possunt rapere quod volunt in nocte. Non deludi per shaker scriptor anteriori. Bibliothecarius innititur, non est hoc quod sunt vere, sed ad interitum huius urbis neque. Te quaerunt vim attulit, ut eos et ex omnibus viribus tuis dabo opus eorum in alium umbras. Hic timor habetis milites, shakers fuerit exactissime plantata juxta Magi, seminalem inter communes vulgi donec nomen stans, Magus est susurrábant lek eadem reverentia ut de deo. Si vos reputo quod shakers sunt verum comminatio, tunc vos fuerint sicut fraudatur sicut ceteri de rauco armenti; nolo coniungamus me lek tali oves.*

The signature is largely illegible.

*Translated from the Royal Trade Tongue: You fear too much. The Mages are but thieves, looking to smash and shock you into cowardice and ill-advised response so that they can steal what they want in the night. Do not be fooled by the shaker's front. Propping up this librarian is not what they are truly after, but nor is it the destruction of this city. They desire to awe you with their force, so that you will bring all your might against them and let someone else do their work in the shadows. This fear you have of the shakers, it has been very carefully planted by the Mages, seeded among the common mob until the name of the Standing Mage is whispered with the same reverence as that of a god. If you think that the shakers are the true threat, then you have been just as fooled as the rest of the raucous herd; and I refuse to ally myself with such sheep.

Blacksbrace Gang (0)

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Not so loud, man! Even if she can't hear you, they can. Look, we're working on a couple of things, but before the Library lady came we were stuck with Silas Mok, aight? You don't know what that was like, man. Losing friends every day to ****ing things that just came out of nowhere. We ain't going to move against her. We owe her too much. But we ain't too fond of these wands-in-black she's got working for her, you dig? So...something might come up. But for the love of all that's holy, man, don't ****ing tell anyone we said so.

Millford Standing Guard to EBSA (7)

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I'm sorry, sir, but matters of major policy should be directed to Mr. Rafin, in Artisans.

Peacocks to EBSA (7)

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Aye, we might be able to help, even if our only contribution is getting the good Doctor Vassari to help. He's been a bit...flaky of late. Too focused on hunting murderers and not enough on the business at hand.

Dreumont to EBSA (6)

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Few can stand against frost magic. We would be proud to serve the city.

Market Guard to EBSA (4)

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Yeah, uh...we guard restaurants. We don't really do much actual fighting. You might want to recruit some actual military forces, or failing that an archmage.

Silver Blood Gentleman's Association/Evening Games Club to EBSA (7)

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We can certainly spread the word among our members, but getting involved in heavy politics really isn't in the nature of our organizations.

Delathion to EBSA (7)

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While normally I would not say no to any request to aid this fine city, in this particular case I am inclined to decline. With the MU around I need to keep an eye on my sanctum, as they are very likely to decide that something I own would be better off owned by them, especially if I am away. I'm sure you understand.

Annosus Merchant's Society to EBSA (4)

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We'll do what we can, but frankly most of that is probably going to be with reconstruction. We aren't fighters or wizards.

Downline Mages to EBSA (7)

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They after artifacts, greyboy. They after spellbooks and magic blades and formulas and ****. All we got is wild magic. Ain't no MU shaker or sifter gonna step into Downline, 'cause they know if they do their magic ain't gonna work.

[ragingrage]

The Silversmith's Guild

SGA (PM)

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The Silversmith's Guild's representative sits in thoughtful silence as the the...King and the other Guild Leaders give their speeches. The man will remain quiet -- The Silversmith's Guild had survived under the rule of Kings and other rulers, and it has kept on prospering. Perhaps this King would result in more success, perhaps in a bit less. The times go on, and the Guild will grow.

To EBSA

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Hmm...Refugees, you say? We'll look at what we can do and get back to you later, if acceptable.

[Eldan]

Blackfist to the Downline Mages [6]

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Brothers, do you ever feel as if this city was being swamped by rules and regulations? More and more factions are banding together to bring THE LAW, as they call it, back. Surely, under the Tyranny of Burgravet you were not happy with the state of magical affairs. What we are facing is a return to those times, after only a brief spell of freedom.

We would, of course, oppose this. If you do, too, perhaps a temporary alliance could be considered?

[razovor]

The Champions of Sovereignty

To the Mercantile Guild [4]

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"Might I ask why you are working with the Warlords rather than removing them? And why you haven't included the Wardens in your efforts? It is after-all their sovereign responsibility to maintain order in the Shattered Lands."

[Greystone]

The EBSA (7)

Silversmiths

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Take your time... but not too much time.

Carriage Houses

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We aren't asking for suicide runs under fire, merely logistics support behind the lines- especially getting troops to the front. Even just getting them to one of the surrounding districts would be more than enough.

If the answer is still no we understand, but perhaps then we'd have to look into those deaths after all.

Wreken Family and Bookbinders

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Thank you trusted allies, hopefully we can squash this threat into the ground and save the city from more damage.

GM

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To save both our time, to all of those who said 'yes' I send thanks, to no's and 'maybe's' we appeal to their patriotism and then let them go. Is this okay?

Peacocks

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We sent him a message, hopefully he responds.

Mercantile Guild

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We understand, though the devil at home can do more damage than an army outside.

????

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I feared as much. We believe bringing our forces against the Shakers, combining the will of the factions will be good for both morale of the citizenry and keep the amount of deaths and damage at least contained. At worst it keeps the others occupied against a common foe rather than slaughtering each other.

Lythene and our spy corp are with you if you would just point us in the right direction.

OOC- My character may be smarter than I am in this case if you have been throwing clues at me.

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

to EBSA

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i can at the very least provide some moral support for your troops. we want them to be fighting at their best.

to champions

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i already consulted with the best sources of information i could find on the warlords. it would take a much bigger amount of military force to even make a dent in their capabilities. you are speaking of a major undertaking that would take the entire cities help to even have a chance.

what i am working on now is simply a temporary fix. obviously more permanent arragements will be made eventually.

to GM

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would establishing camps and small caravan towns in the shattered-lands increase my stat-cap?

also how many of the gears-chosen holy texts and schematics do i have in my possesion?

[Zemalac]

Downline Mages to Blackfist Brotherhood (6)

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Look, we love your crazy-ass ideals, don't get us wrong, but this is Downline. No one has ****ed with us since Longspeak fell. Bugravet? We didn't even pay her taxes, mate.

Carriage Houses to EBSA (4)

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Well, if you start looking into certain things, you might find that those men what died were smuggling bastards who got what was coming to them. Hardly anything worth getting bothered about.

We'll help you out with that, aye, but we'll require payment. Only the devil works for free.

Greystone (GM PM)

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Sure. More pleas probably won't change much, though--the shaker magi have a fairly high negative REP, which makes it hard to get people to face them.

??? to EBSA (7)

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Immo amplius iuvabit. Damnant quod non curo quid civitati. Hic solis, frigidus cibus mollis, turpis mulieres atque durescere. Velut viventes in deterius nihil deonil Imperi quod videtur errare. Hic locus est laci et incensum meum posuisti libenter praestare domino si non indigeret retro me manere.

Frange, cim tuis problems, puer belli. Quid si non te sequitur, non est spes nam Magi dubio.*

* No, I will not help you further. I do not care what happens to this damn city. The sun here is cold, the food is bland, and the women are ugly and hard. I had thought that nothing could be worse than living in the godsforsaken Empire, but it appears that I was mistaken. This place is a pit, and I would gladly set it to burn at my retreating back if duty to my lord did not require me to stay.

Deal with your own problems, child of war. If you cannot see what the Mages are after yourself then there is no hope for you anyhow.

OOC-PM

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I feel I ought to note at this point that all of the information I have given you about the MU has been heavily influenced by their carefully-mantained reputation. They are a secret criminal society, emphasis on the "secret," so maybe don't take the collection of rumors and stories you've heard as gospel.

oblivion6 (GM PM)

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1) Yes, especially if you equipped some of them as full-scale forts.

2) A good number of them. They had an entire library (that the splinter group was very careful not to hit with the Gilded Pyramid), most of which is in your hands at the moment.

[Eldan]

Blackfist Brotherhood to the Downline Mages [6]

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All the more impressive, then.

How would you like using your talents for a bit of work outside of Downline, then? For an interesting cause, a bit more chaos in the world, and, in the end, maybe even the greater good .And payment.

If there is interest, we might send someone around.

[oblivion6]

mercantile's guild

to EBSA

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i can vouch for the carriage houses claim that the bodies on the traitors-bridge are in fact smugglers that my spies rounded up.

to gears-chosen[PM]

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after going through his stacks of notes the trader turns to you and says it seems we do retain many of the documents in the library. i will be happy to ship them to you if you agree to let the matter rest. i have no qualms with you.

to warlords[PM]

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very well. i will begin sending the arms shipments out to your respective bands. eventually i may be able to supply you with blackpowder-weapons as well.

may this be the start of a long and mutually beneficial relationship.

to GM

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can i have some information on those ruined cities mentioned in the shattered-lands entry in the OOC?

could i get an idea of the ESP-D and morale of the warlords?

i did of course plan to build fully-stocked fortresses. my long term plans hinge upon the fate of the shattered-lands. the out-posts and forts in the shattered-lands are really just the beginning.

[Zemalac]

Downline Mages to Blackfist (6)

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Could be fun. Gotta warn you, though, our talents ain't exactly reliable. And most of us ain't exactly on the same level-headed plane as the rest of the world, yeah? Hell, I'm only talking to you now because the damn trees wouldn't shut up unless I did.

Edit:
oblivion (GM PM)

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Orn Taligrad is to the north, and is completely abandoned, and Orn Gaspar to the west serves as a home base for Agia Lonecutter and her family. Burnelli has actually been rebuilt into a semi-thriving city like Sav Altulas, and Orn Methol is nothing but bumps in the marsh. There are a few others rumored to be out there, but they aren't on your maps.

ESP-D and Morale are universally low, except with Cord Witchbrother, who commands a helluva lot of fear.