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  1. - Top - End - #121
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    [The Cells]

    Glory perked up. "Ah, we have a possibility! It was mentioned that you were found to have a crossbow, but not ammunition! Hopefully, they still have the bolt that struck down their lord, so we can find out whether it could have been fired from your weapon. If there's a mismatch, we know we have more searching to do... Do you use particularly distinctive quarrels? Does anypony use particularly distinctive quarrels? That might be a problem if it's ambiguous enough, but it's a possibility."
    When in doubt, use cute little dragons.

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  2. - Top - End - #122
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    Quote Originally Posted by MCerberus View Post
    Well then. It seems that blades were mentioned earlier concerning the murder. It seems that there's already one blatant lie sitting in front of them. One way or another somepony is playing somepony. In the meantime though, Riposte is silent. Glory made them particularly chatty. Whatever he did, the pony played off the exchange well. It gives the hippogriff leave to attend to something else.

    Particularly the condition of the prisoners. Not only does the 'insane from imprisonment' lead to some ethical badness, but executing a mad pony would make another mess. Riposte goes over to a guard, or if available their host.

    "A moment, if you will."
    Quote Originally Posted by Merellis View Post
    The door at the top of the stairs creaks open as Branch trots down to report to her current superior in this matter, Sterling Silver. She takes a quick look in the room, noting that there are other unicorns, prisoners, and even a hippogriff. Her rough voice chimes in just after Riposte's, as there was no real sense in waiting too long to let him know she had arrived.

    "Rangewalker, Branching Paths reportin', sorry 'bout the lateness but there was a mess o' manticores up north that were a mite too stubborn about crossin' into Stoutheart lands. Didn't meet the messenger till after sundown the evening past."
    Both ponies reach the servant at roughly the same time. Sterling Silver hardly has enough time to nod his assent to Riposte before he's greeted by the unicorn. "Paths. Good to have you finally on board," he replies with practiced neutrality, before turning back to the hippogrif. "This is Branching Paths; one of our more...experienced woodsponies. Since I cannot join you in your fieldwork, she will go in my place. Branching Paths, this is Riposte of Canterlot."
    I'm developing a game. Let's see what happens! Complex.

  3. - Top - End - #123
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    Quote Originally Posted by PurityIcekiller View Post
    [The Cells]

    Glory perked up. "Ah, we have a possibility! It was mentioned that you were found to have a crossbow, but not ammunition! Hopefully, they still have the bolt that struck down their lord, so we can find out whether it could have been fired from your weapon. If there's a mismatch, we know we have more searching to do... Do you use particularly distinctive quarrels? Does anypony use particularly distinctive quarrels? That might be a problem if it's ambiguous enough, but it's a possibility."
    Aria shakes her head. "None of us were carrying crossbows, period. Solace doesn't even use them - they prefer regular bows. But we didn't have any of those, either. Arrows are longer, have smaller heads, and more pronounced feathers than bolts do. You're going to compare the injuries to the 'lord' and find out that the death blow came from a Stoutheart weapon. The murderer's likely walking around unimpeded up there right now, all pleased with themselves for managing an intra-house assassination and using us as scapegoats." Her face twists up in disgust. "My telling the truth here probably won't help my case, either. They'll just deny even the faintest possibility that their blessed infallible forces could be anything less than angelic and pin it on us against because I salvaged an unloaded crossbow from our attackers and gave it to Harp. Probably spin a story about how I used 'dark magic' to pull a facsimile bolt out of my plot and fired it through time and space."
    D&D is the only game I can think of (with the possible exception of Calvinball) where the only way to lose is by playing to win.
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  4. - Top - End - #124
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    Quote Originally Posted by TheAmishPirate View Post
    Both ponies reach the servant at roughly the same time. Sterling Silver hardly has enough time to nod his assent to Riposte before he's greeted by the unicorn. "Paths. Good to have you finally on board," he replies with practiced neutrality, before turning back to the hippogrif. "This is Branching Paths; one of our more...experienced woodsponies. Since I cannot join you in your fieldwork, she will go in my place. Branching Paths, this is Riposte of Canterlot."
    Well there is something to be said about correcting these sorts of things. While not technically correct, there's a lot of tradition and implication in her proper title that's generally good to keep sorted out. "Of Moltsese or Highrock is more accurate, though I am in the service of the crowns," the hippogriff states before extending a talon. "A pleasure to meet you."
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  5. - Top - End - #125
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    Quote Originally Posted by MCerberus View Post
    Well there is something to be said about correcting these sorts of things. While not technically correct, there's a lot of tradition and implication in her proper title that's generally good to keep sorted out. "Of Moltsese or Highrock is more accurate, though I am in the service of the crowns," the hippogriff states before extending a talon. "A pleasure to meet you."
    Path gives a grunt of approval to the servant and turns to face the hippogriff addressing her with a polite nod of acknowledgement. A hoof caked in mud rises up to meet the talon and Paths gives Riposte a firm and sturdy shake that doesn't usually come from a unicorn. "Likewise. I hope to be of use for yah in this mess, but it's been a good few days with my kin stompin all over the place so I won't be able to get as good a read as I'd like."

  6. - Top - End - #126
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    Quote Originally Posted by MCerberus View Post
    Well there is something to be said about correcting these sorts of things. While not technically correct, there's a lot of tradition and implication in her proper title that's generally good to keep sorted out. "Of Moltsese or Highrock is more accurate, though I am in the service of the crowns," the hippogriff states before extending a talon. "A pleasure to meet you."
    "My apologies, madam. I'll ensure you won't be introduced improperly again." Sterling replies, legitimately regretful at the lapse in manners. "Is there something I might help you with?"
    I'm developing a game. Let's see what happens! Complex.

  7. - Top - End - #127
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    Quote Originally Posted by Merellis View Post
    Path gives a grunt of approval to the servant and turns to face the hippogriff addressing her with a polite nod of acknowledgement. A hoof caked in mud rises up to meet the talon and Paths gives Riposte a firm and sturdy shake that doesn't usually come from a unicorn. "Likewise. I hope to be of use for yah in this mess, but it's been a good few days with my kin stompin all over the place so I won't be able to get as good a read as I'd like."
    Unlike the nobles Path probably has to deal with a lot, the hippogriff doesn't seem to be allergic to dirt, and doesn't say anything regarding it. "I hope you found your quarry then."

    Quote Originally Posted by TheAmishPirate View Post
    "My apologies, madam. I'll ensure you won't be introduced improperly again." Sterling replies, legitimately regretful at the lapse in manners. "Is there something I might help you with?"
    And then things got back to one of those 'tread lightly' scenarios. The prisoners' state of mind wasn't conductive to anything good, but Sterling may see insult or other motive in what Riposte suggests. "When is the last time your prisoners have seen daylight? They seem effected by the dark," she asks and comments. "It would lead to uncomfortable questions about their keeping if they were lead to the gallows babbling and blinded by the sun. Remember that we must both have justice and show it to the entire crown-lands."

    Of course, she avoided the whole 'you're treating the accused like this without trial and that's completely unethical' point of view.
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  8. - Top - End - #128
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    Quote Originally Posted by MCerberus View Post
    And then things got back to one of those 'tread lightly' scenarios. The prisoners' state of mind wasn't conductive to anything good, but Sterling may see insult or other motive in what Riposte suggests. "When is the last time your prisoners have seen daylight? They seem effected by the dark," she asks and comments. "It would lead to uncomfortable questions about their keeping if they were lead to the gallows babbling and blinded by the sun. Remember that we must both have justice and show it to the entire crown-lands."

    Of course, she avoided the whole 'you're treating the accused like this without trial and that's completely unethical' point of view.
    "It would also lead to uncomfortable questions if they somehow escaped." Sterling countered. "Or, if a particularly hot-blooded guard decided he was tired of waiting for justice. The cages are there for their protection as much as they are to detain them." His face hardened, though it appeared to be less directed at Riposte and more towards the situation as a whole. "Stoutheart will not be robbed of justice either way. I don't suppose you have an idea of how to give them sunlight without compromising security?"
    Last edited by TheAmishPirate; 2014-10-30 at 10:04 PM.

  9. - Top - End - #129
    Firbolg in the Playground
     
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    Quote Originally Posted by TheAmishPirate View Post
    "It would also lead to uncomfortable questions if they somehow escaped." Sterling countered. "Or, if a particularly hot-blooded guard decided he was tired of waiting for justice. The cages are there for their protection as much as they are to detain them." His face hardened, though it appeared to be less directed at Riposte and more towards the situation as a whole. "Stoutheart will not be robbed of justice either way. I don't suppose you have an idea of how to give them sunlight without compromising security?"
    An interesting conundrum. On one end, this would be better solved with a small bit of rune magic in important cases in the protectorate. Voluntary compulsion is supposedly easy for those magi. However, Riposte was never sure the prisoners weren't just playing along.

    "Magic suppression and the threat of a bolt would do wonders for them. The threat of the old justice to keep them safe. How many would be willing to pay for both the dishonor and the killing. It would also go a long way in loosing their tongues if they don't feel... I believe your phrase is 'railroaded'. "
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  10. - Top - End - #130
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    Quote Originally Posted by MCerberus View Post
    An interesting conundrum. On one end, this would be better solved with a small bit of rune magic in important cases in the protectorate. Voluntary compulsion is supposedly easy for those magi. However, Riposte was never sure the prisoners weren't just playing along.

    "Magic suppression and the threat of a bolt would do wonders for them. The threat of the old justice to keep them safe. How many would be willing to pay for both the dishonor and the killing. It would also go a long way in loosing their tongues if they don't feel... I believe your phrase is 'railroaded'. "
    "I beg your pardon, but I don't think you understand the stakes you're proposing I gamble with." Silver's brows furrowed deeper. "We aren't deaf out here; everypony who's anypony knows who'll get the blame if anything happens to these two outside of official channels. Unfortunately, there simply aren't enough of those ponies to run the investigation and do guard duty. All we have are the Stoutheart faithful; able-bodied farmers capable of wrestling a Cragodile into submission, but not guards, and certainly not soldiers." He recited his facts gravely and efficiently. "You ask me to risk not only the standing of our house, but our one route to justice for our fallen Lord, on the hope that not a single guard will act hastily? That, I will not do."
    I'm developing a game. Let's see what happens! Complex.

  11. - Top - End - #131
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    [Canterlot City Streets - Near the Golden Gate]

    "-and furthermore, no more filibusters in line at dessert carts." The guardspony finishes his speech severely.

    Feathergrin chuckles as he nods at the list, handing over his bow, arrows, and a few knives. "I'll be on my best behavior as always, sir."

    Static Gauntlet sighs. "Your best behavior...doesn't exactly reassure me, but I've done my part."

    "Pardon me, siiirs..." A high, reedy voice interrupts the two stallions, revealing a slight, nondescript page bearing a letter. "A missive for his Lordship Feathergrin of Lunatic."

    Feathergrin shivers as he takes the letter. "Putting 'lordship' and 'Feathergrin' in the same sentence feels so wrong...oh, bugger."

    "Warrant out for your arrest already?" Gauntlet asks sardonically.

    "Worse," Feathergrin states dramatically. "An invite to tea."

    "I'll notify your next of kin." At this point, the page must be wondering if Gauntlet's special talent is sarcasm. "Does this mean you can't take us out for drinks?"

    "I'd sooner dive off a cliff than renege on that tradition, Sergeant, but it seems it'll have to be postponed." Feathergrin slides the missive into a saddlebag and nods to the page. "May I humbly suggest I accompany you back to your master's estate?"

    No sooner have the pair vanished from sight, long among the glowing streets of Canterlot, than Gauntlet has pulled a recruit to close proximity. "You'd better send a letter to Lady Moonshine. Let her know Feathers is back...and already a part of The Game again.

    "I'm getting too old for this."
    D&D is the only game I can think of (with the possible exception of Calvinball) where the only way to lose is by playing to win.
    "'Elvish barbeque' is what happens when the Quessir send one of their Evokers to deal with an orc invasion and then go home for the evening." - Elmah Dryearghymn, an elven Evoker, as depicted to the left

  12. - Top - End - #132
    Ettin in the Playground
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    Quote Originally Posted by Kelvin360 View Post
    [Canterlot City Streets - Near the Golden Gate]

    "-and furthermore, no more filibusters in line at dessert carts." The guardspony finishes his speech severely.

    Feathergrin chuckles as he nods at the list, handing over his bow, arrows, and a few knives. "I'll be on my best behavior as always, sir."

    Static Gauntlet sighs. "Your best behavior...doesn't exactly reassure me, but I've done my part."

    "Pardon me, siiirs..." A high, reedy voice interrupts the two stallions, revealing a slight, nondescript page bearing a letter. "A missive for his Lordship Feathergrin of Lunatic."

    Feathergrin shivers as he takes the letter. "Putting 'lordship' and 'Feathergrin' in the same sentence feels so wrong...oh, bugger."

    "Warrant out for your arrest already?" Gauntlet asks sardonically.

    "Worse," Feathergrin states dramatically. "An invite to tea."

    "I'll notify your next of kin." At this point, the page must be wondering if Gauntlet's special talent is sarcasm. "Does this mean you can't take us out for drinks?"

    "I'd sooner dive off a cliff than renege on that tradition, Sergeant, but it seems it'll have to be postponed." Feathergrin slides the missive into a saddlebag and nods to the page. "May I humbly suggest I accompany you back to your master's estate?"

    No sooner have the pair vanished from sight, long among the glowing streets of Canterlot, than Gauntlet has pulled a recruit to close proximity. "You'd better send a letter to Lady Moonshine. Let her know Feathers is back...and already a part of The Game again.

    "I'm getting too old for this."
    In most parts of Equestria, an invitation to tea would be a straightforward affair. A chance to socialise. Perhaps share the latest downtown gossip. Partake in mutual appreciation of good tea. Or simply a friendly gesture to pass an afternoon. Not in Canterlot.

    Here, in Canterlot, an invitation to tea have multiple layers of meanings. The most superficial is a base need to display the sender's exquisite taste in tea; the more exotic the tea, the better. An altogether important part of keeping one's reputation in high society. The more astute would recognise it as an unofficial venue to discuss the more odious aspects of noble politics, bargains, favours and perhaps even a temporary alliance. A select few might even use this innocent occasion to pass on hidden messages and warnings.

    Feathergrin's invitation came in an envelope gilded in an intricate flowery pattern that ran across the seal and edges, a sure sign of wealth designed to impress. The seal itself bore the design of House Illuminati: a stylised book with an open eye for cover. The message itself was written on specially chosen scented paper, the faint scent of summer lavender filling the air as it was pulled out. Gold ink spelt out a simple request for Feathergrin to meet the Lord for tea at his estates at four hours after the noon bell tolls, with Lord Bookworm's own hoofprint completing the message.

    Whatever his reasons, it must have been urgent enough for the lord to ask for Feathergrin's presence. How odd.

  13. - Top - End - #133
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    Quote Originally Posted by Grif View Post
    In most parts of Equestria, an invitation to tea would be a straightforward affair. A chance to socialise. Perhaps share the latest downtown gossip. Partake in mutual appreciation of good tea. Or simply a friendly gesture to pass an afternoon. Not in Canterlot.

    Here, in Canterlot, an invitation to tea have multiple layers of meanings. The most superficial is a base need to display the sender's exquisite taste in tea; the more exotic the tea, the better. An altogether important part of keeping one's reputation in high society. The more astute would recognise it as an unofficial venue to discuss the more odious aspects of noble politics, bargains, favours and perhaps even a temporary alliance. A select few might even use this innocent occasion to pass on hidden messages and warnings.

    Feathergrin's invitation came in an envelope gilded in an intricate flowery pattern that ran across the seal and edges, a sure sign of wealth designed to impress. The seal itself bore the design of House Illuminati: a stylised book with an open eye for cover. The message itself was written on specially chosen scented paper, the faint scent of summer lavender filling the air as it was pulled out. Gold ink spelt out a simple request for Feathergrin to meet the Lord for tea at his estates at four hours after the noon bell tolls, with Lord Bookworm's own hoofprint completing the message.

    Whatever his reasons, it must have been urgent enough for the lord to ask for Feathergrin's presence. How odd.
    Few of the subtleties inherent in the local nobility are apt to faze Feathergrin any longer, and not because he has a good deal of experience in court. Barely holding in vindictive laughter every time he makes the connection, he recognizes early and often that such 'face value' clandestine affairs seem to be very similar whether one is sitting on a gilded chair or commanding a group of street thugs. The time was, an invitation to tea would have sent Feathergrin running to the other side of the country, for fear of his life. Now, after years spent working the underworld like hammer to railroad spikes, he can afford to be curious. What most mobsters fail to realize about secret meetings, after all, is that they often betray their own intentions to a much greater degree than they can extract information.

    As they walk, he chooses to reflect in silence, gauging the alleyways that they pass with a wistful eye, remembering a simpler time. A time of traps, double-crosses, and a good deal of screaming. And now he was being led straight into another unknown. One that he could well have refused, even if it might cause a political headache. And yet, his gut said go. Good ol' gut. Always keeping him on the right path. Always tossing him into the fire. Stupid gut.

    When they begin to enter the nicer districts, he quickly falls into step directly behind the page. With no small effort, he relaxes himself; just another daytime stroll, his body says. He lies a schmuck who doesn't know a thing. As an afterthought, he begins whistling an old marching tune. The one Moonlight said grated on his ears, which was why he used it as a casual signal. He called it the 'don't hug me I'm scared' warning. Assuming his numerous spies had even been told of it. He resisted the urge to sigh.

    He goes through the motions, the how-do-you-dos as they pass into House Illuminati, and allows his pace to take a backseat to his senses once they cross the threshold. Trip wires? Loose rocks? Exploding chickens? Time (and his eyes) would tell. He allows the page to meander off and restricts himself to the entry hall, certain that somepony will come to collect him once they know he's arrived. He doesn't react to the guards. They expect to be viewed as stationery, and that's an expectation he'll play to.

    Sooner or later, the truth comes out, and there's always a song to keep the walls from coming down. It doesn't start until the tails begin to twitch, and it ain't over until the archer sings.

    Spoiler: Grif
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    I'm not entirely sure about the procedures on this, but basically, I'm gonna make a Bardic Knowledge check on House Illuminati and Bookworm.
    D&D is the only game I can think of (with the possible exception of Calvinball) where the only way to lose is by playing to win.
    "'Elvish barbeque' is what happens when the Quessir send one of their Evokers to deal with an orc invasion and then go home for the evening." - Elmah Dryearghymn, an elven Evoker, as depicted to the left

  14. - Top - End - #134
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    Quote Originally Posted by Kelvin360 View Post
    Few of the subtleties inherent in the local nobility are apt to faze Feathergrin any longer, and not because he has a good deal of experience in court. Barely holding in vindictive laughter every time he makes the connection, he recognizes early and often that such 'face value' clandestine affairs seem to be very similar whether one is sitting on a gilded chair or commanding a group of street thugs. The time was, an invitation to tea would have sent Feathergrin running to the other side of the country, for fear of his life. Now, after years spent working the underworld like hammer to railroad spikes, he can afford to be curious. What most mobsters fail to realize about secret meetings, after all, is that they often betray their own intentions to a much greater degree than they can extract information.

    As they walk, he chooses to reflect in silence, gauging the alleyways that they pass with a wistful eye, remembering a simpler time. A time of traps, double-crosses, and a good deal of screaming. And now he was being led straight into another unknown. One that he could well have refused, even if it might cause a political headache. And yet, his gut said go. Good ol' gut. Always keeping him on the right path. Always tossing him into the fire. Stupid gut.

    When they begin to enter the nicer districts, he quickly falls into step directly behind the page. With no small effort, he relaxes himself; just another daytime stroll, his body says. He lies a schmuck who doesn't know a thing. As an afterthought, he begins whistling an old marching tune. The one Moonlight said grated on his ears, which was why he used it as a casual signal. He called it the 'don't hug me I'm scared' warning. Assuming his numerous spies had even been told of it. He resisted the urge to sigh.

    He goes through the motions, the how-do-you-dos as they pass into House Illuminati, and allows his pace to take a backseat to his senses once they cross the threshold. Trip wires? Loose rocks? Exploding chickens? Time (and his eyes) would tell. He allows the page to meander off and restricts himself to the entry hall, certain that somepony will come to collect him once they know he's arrived. He doesn't react to the guards. They expect to be viewed as stationery, and that's an expectation he'll play to.

    Sooner or later, the truth comes out, and there's always a song to keep the walls from coming down. It doesn't start until the tails begin to twitch, and it ain't over until the archer sings.

    Spoiler: Grif
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    I'm not entirely sure about the procedures on this, but basically, I'm gonna make a Bardic Knowledge check on House Illuminati and Bookworm.
    Spoiler: OOC
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    Just ask here or OOC, and I'll attempt to provide information best I can. Feel free to seek clarification for any points you think your character should know.


    Common knowledge of House Illuminati was sparse, even by the standards of noble houses. But Feathergrin should be at least aware of a few salient facts. They were a secretive house, for one. Few are aware that libraries throughout Equestria are owned by House Iluminati, usually through intermediaries. Their members are known to prize knowledge above all else and guard their secrets jealously. Rumours often swirl that they secretly practice dark magic, though this has been debunked multiple times. They have an ongoing rivalry with House Sparkle, though more of a friendly one rather than acrimonious.

    As for Lord Bookworm himself, he's a relative newcomer to the political scene, having succeeded the late Lord Radiant, his uncle, just a few years ago. The young lord was reportedly more social than was usual for a member of his house, and seemed to be in favour of loosening up the noble house notorious secrecy.

    The House Iluminati estates is tucked away in a quieter, less visited section of Harmony District. While not as palatial as some of the larger house, it still commands the respect of all those who enter. Instead of a typical mansion or palace as was the fashion for noble houses, the main building of Iluminati was one of the towers that loom over the rest of the city. Feathergrin would find himself at the very bottom of the tower, in a stately hall that was adorned with various paintings, art and decor typical of the nobility. Interestingly, a significant portion was also made up of archaeological artefacts and bookshelves lined with dusty old manuscripts.

    He would not however, find himself waiting for long. Another earth pony soon appeared in the hall, from a side door, and bowed. Another servant, apparently. "Lord Feathergrin. The lord is anxious to make your acquaintance. Please follow me." With that, the servant turned towards a set of doors at the end of the hall. Beyond, was a series of staircases that led upwards. Looks like it might be a long climb up.

  15. - Top - End - #135
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    Default Re: [FWM] Game of Ponies

    Quote Originally Posted by Grif View Post
    Common knowledge of House Illuminati was sparse, even by the standards of noble houses. But Feathergrin should be at least aware of a few salient facts. They were a secretive house, for one. Few are aware that libraries throughout Equestria are owned by House Iluminati, usually through intermediaries. Their members are known to prize knowledge above all else and guard their secrets jealously. Rumours often swirl that they secretly practice dark magic, though this has been debunked multiple times. They have an ongoing rivalry with House Sparkle, though more of a friendly one rather than acrimonious.

    As for Lord Bookworm himself, he's a relative newcomer to the political scene, having succeeded the late Lord Radiant, his uncle, just a few years ago. The young lord was reportedly more social than was usual for a member of his house, and seemed to be in favour of loosening up the noble house notorious secrecy.

    The House Iluminati estates is tucked away in a quieter, less visited section of Harmony District. While not as palatial as some of the larger house, it still commands the respect of all those who enter. Instead of a typical mansion or palace as was the fashion for noble houses, the main building of Iluminati was one of the towers that loom over the rest of the city. Feathergrin would find himself at the very bottom of the tower, in a stately hall that was adorned with various paintings, art and decor typical of the nobility. Interestingly, a significant portion was also made up of archaeological artefacts and bookshelves lined with dusty old manuscripts.

    He would not however, find himself waiting for long. Another earth pony soon appeared in the hall, from a side door, and bowed. Another servant, apparently. "Lord Feathergrin. The lord is anxious to make your acquaintance. Please follow me." With that, the servant turned towards a set of doors at the end of the hall. Beyond, was a series of staircases that led upwards. Looks like it might be a long climb up.
    Feathergrin elects to accompany the servant with little enough fuss, taking on the challenge of the staircase with as much poise and grace as he can manage. He wonders briefly how many softer nobles' lungs have met their demise on this route. Perhaps there was a magical elevator somewhere that only the librarians knew about, as a joke.

    Almost as an afterthought, he examines the edges of the stairs, gauging on the spot whether his grappling hook would stay mounted to a side, or perhaps a torch bracket, if there are any, in the event he needs to make a hasty downward exit. Paranoid? Of course. But if I need it, it's nice to have the option.

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    Be it in context from Starbeam or Moonshine, what's the relation between Illuminati and the Academy for Gifted Unicorns? Also, do they contract out for archeological finds or use their own resources to dig?
    D&D is the only game I can think of (with the possible exception of Calvinball) where the only way to lose is by playing to win.
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    While Paths was not one who enjoyed entering a situation that required diplomacy and fancy words, a growing argument about the treatment of suspected murderers wasn't going to let her leave the town any sooner. The green unicorn clears her throat loudly so she can cut into the conversation.

    "Ah agree with keepin them locked tight for now." She speaks in a low tone, gesturing to the cells with only a few twitches of her eyes. "As loose as the sun would make their tongues, Ah'm not too keen on spillin' the blood o' my kin to keep these ponies breathing, or lettin the name o' Stoutheart be tainted on account of our lack of control."

    The bird that had been perched contently upon her back gives a little squawk and begins to butt her head against Branching Paths horn with gusto.

    "Ah'll take yah out soon enough yah glutton, just gotta wait a bit till Ah'm finished." She says with a surprising amount of affection and a slight smile playing on her lips.

    The bird gives another cry but goes back to her perch upon her master's back and settles down.

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    Quote Originally Posted by Kelvin360 View Post
    Feathergrin elects to accompany the servant with little enough fuss, taking on the challenge of the staircase with as much poise and grace as he can manage. He wonders briefly how many softer nobles' lungs have met their demise on this route. Perhaps there was a magical elevator somewhere that only the librarians knew about, as a joke.

    Almost as an afterthought, he examines the edges of the stairs, gauging on the spot whether his grappling hook would stay mounted to a side, or perhaps a torch bracket, if there are any, in the event he needs to make a hasty downward exit. Paranoid? Of course. But if I need it, it's nice to have the option.

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    Be it in context from Starbeam or Moonshine, what's the relation between Illuminati and the Academy for Gifted Unicorns? Also, do they contract out for archeological finds or use their own resources to dig?
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    None. Despite their inclination to knowledge, they're not in the business of actually distributing it. They regard knowledge as a currency to be used and bargained for. You may guess why House Sparkle or Twilight herself doesn't really like them.

    As for archaeology, they mainly just sponsor whatever archaeological teams that show an interest, with plenty of caveats, of course. Caveats like forwarding any interesting finds to the house directly.


    Considering the stairs are stone, and they're climbing a stairwell surrounded by stone walls, any hasty escape seems unlikely. And set among those walls, in regular intervals, are unmarked wooden doors. Presumably, they lead the way into the each floor of the tower. What they contain, one could only guess.

    At least Feathergrin need not strain his legs for too long on the seemingly endless steps. The servant came to a stop in front of a door. The only mark on the door was the crest of House Illuminati. He bowed and gestured at the door. "The lord awaits within."

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    Quote Originally Posted by Grif View Post

    Considering the stairs are stone, and they're climbing a stairwell surrounded by stone walls, any hasty escape seems unlikely. And set among those walls, in regular intervals, are unmarked wooden doors. Presumably, they lead the way into the each floor of the tower. What they contain, one could only guess.

    At least Feathergrin need not strain his legs for too long on the seemingly endless steps. The servant came to a stop in front of a door. The only mark on the door was the crest of House Illuminati. He bowed and gestured at the door. "The lord awaits within."
    What sort of knobs/handles do those doors have? And what provides light in the staircase, or have we been walking in the dark?

    Cursing his lack of foresight, Feathergrin pauses at the top, panting dramatically. He reaches into his saddlebag and makes a show of accidentally finding his monocle instead of what he's looking for, but slides it on to get it out of the way. He retrieves a handkerchief and wipes his brow with it, taking a moment to both make himself look presentable and examine the crest with his magic-detecting eyepiece.
    D&D is the only game I can think of (with the possible exception of Calvinball) where the only way to lose is by playing to win.
    "'Elvish barbeque' is what happens when the Quessir send one of their Evokers to deal with an orc invasion and then go home for the evening." - Elmah Dryearghymn, an elven Evoker, as depicted to the left

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    Quote Originally Posted by TheAmishPirate View Post
    "I beg your pardon, but I don't think you understand the stakes you're proposing I gamble with." Silver's brows furrowed deeper. "We aren't deaf out here; everypony who's anypony knows who'll get the blame if anything happens to these two outside of official channels. Unfortunately, there simply aren't enough of those ponies to run the investigation and do guard duty. All we have are the Stoutheart faithful; able-bodied farmers capable of wrestling a Cragodile into submission, but not guards, and certainly not soldiers." He recited his facts gravely and efficiently. "You ask me to risk not only the standing of our house, but our one route to justice for our fallen Lord, on the hope that not a single guard will act hastily? That, I will not do."
    It seems at some point Riposte has done the rather common mistake of projecting her own culture into a general sense... again. While she would admit to taking fault for that, there's something completely offputting about this whole situation. How sure they are about the guilt of the prisoners when they admit that they're in some ways incompetent.

    "I must apologize for any stress I've caused with the suggestion. But, to be blunt, the state of one of the prisoners is past useless. The one seems... to have some sort of connection to the outside severed. An outside pony would not know them, and they'd naturally just assume that the prisoner has been..."


    Riposte cuts off the sentence without finishing.

    "We must not just find guilt but convince the other nobles. If this fails, there will be revenge from houses that aren't naturally peaceful. A whiff of air, a beam of sunlight, a potted plant. SOMETHING to bring him back to equestria."
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    Quote Originally Posted by Kelvin360 View Post
    What sort of knobs/handles do those doors have? And what provides light in the staircase, or have we been walking in the dark?

    Cursing his lack of foresight, Feathergrin pauses at the top, panting dramatically. He reaches into his saddlebag and makes a show of accidentally finding his monocle instead of what he's looking for, but slides it on to get it out of the way. He retrieves a handkerchief and wipes his brow with it, taking a moment to both make himself look presentable and examine the crest with his magic-detecting eyepiece.
    Heavy brass handles, only minimally decorated to show some amount of decorum. The walls of the stairwell are lit by various windows set into the walls itself, which in the daylight, provided plenty of illumination for anypony using the stairs. One might even be able to look out on the bustling city of Canterlot if they craned their neck out enough.

    As for the crest, it seemed plainly unmagical. Probably a disappointment to the high adventure-minded Feathergrin. Though interestingly enough, he could make out various wards, some extremely powerful, woven into the walls of the door on either side.

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    Reinforcement for the door without there actually being anything off with the door, I'll bet. Clever, I'll give them that.

    Coming up short on reasons to stick around (though driving the servant up the wall has some merit), he pushes open the door and strides within at a measured pace. One eye out for Bookworm, one eye out for traps, one ear out to see whether the servant closes the door behind him and 'sets the mood'.
    D&D is the only game I can think of (with the possible exception of Calvinball) where the only way to lose is by playing to win.
    "'Elvish barbeque' is what happens when the Quessir send one of their Evokers to deal with an orc invasion and then go home for the evening." - Elmah Dryearghymn, an elven Evoker, as depicted to the left

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    Quote Originally Posted by Kelvin360 View Post
    Reinforcement for the door without there actually being anything off with the door, I'll bet. Clever, I'll give them that.

    Coming up short on reasons to stick around (though driving the servant up the wall has some merit), he pushes open the door and strides within at a measured pace. One eye out for Bookworm, one eye out for traps, one ear out to see whether the servant closes the door behind him and 'sets the mood'.
    [Tower of Enlightenment, House Illuminati]

    Ah, of course. The door does indeed shut quietly behind him, as with the wont of all servants. But what should interest Feathergrin lay ahead.

    A short antechamber lay beyond the heavy wooden door, leading into a what appeared to be a library of a sort. A pair of unicorn guards stare at Feathergrin as he strode on in, watching his every move.

    Tomes of various age filled the bookshelves that lined the wall from end-to-end. A pair of heavily stained glass windows that only reluctantly allowed light to filter through provided much of the room's lighting, along with a roaring fire that had been lit in the ornate fireplace that lay between the two window.

    And in the middle, he'd notice a dusky red unicorn sitting serenely on a cushion, sipping on a cup of tea as he flips the page of a book hovering in front of him, his back turned towards Feathergrin and facing the fire. Another empty cushion was set out beside the young lord, evidently for the visitor, along with an elaborate set of chinaware. "Do come in. Have a seat," he said, as the door closed.

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    Quote Originally Posted by Grif View Post
    [Tower of Enlightenment, House Illuminati]

    Ah, of course. The door does indeed shut quietly behind him, as with the wont of all servants. But what should interest Feathergrin lay ahead.

    A short antechamber lay beyond the heavy wooden door, leading into a what appeared to be a library of a sort. A pair of unicorn guards stare at Feathergrin as he strode on in, watching his every move.

    Tomes of various age filled the bookshelves that lined the wall from end-to-end. A pair of heavily stained glass windows that only reluctantly allowed light to filter through provided much of the room's lighting, along with a roaring fire that had been lit in the ornate fireplace that lay between the two window.

    And in the middle, he'd notice a dusky red unicorn sitting serenely on a cushion, sipping on a cup of tea as he flips the page of a book hovering in front of him, his back turned towards Feathergrin and facing the fire. Another empty cushion was set out beside the young lord, evidently for the visitor, along with an elaborate set of chinaware. "Do come in. Have a seat," he said, as the door closed.
    Suddenly grateful for his years of practicing 'the walk' that indicates to observers that you're not guilty of anything, honest, Feathergrin purposefully moves to the cushion and bows his head courteously to his host, not really seeing a reason to be impolite. He seats himself in a single flowing motion, careful to form his posture in a manner that is calm and assured and not anxious or egocentric. "Your invitation came as a surprise, Lord Bookworm, he remarks coolly. "Though not an unpleasant one. Your designers certainly know how to make an impression."
    Last edited by Kelvin360; 2014-12-23 at 03:58 PM.
    D&D is the only game I can think of (with the possible exception of Calvinball) where the only way to lose is by playing to win.
    "'Elvish barbeque' is what happens when the Quessir send one of their Evokers to deal with an orc invasion and then go home for the evening." - Elmah Dryearghymn, an elven Evoker, as depicted to the left

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    Quote Originally Posted by Kelvin360 View Post
    Suddenly grateful for his years of practicing 'the walk' that indicates to observers that you're not guilty of anything, honest, Feathergrin purposefully moves to the cushion and bows his head courteously to his host, not really seeing a reason to be impolite. He seats himself in a single flowing motion, careful to form his posture in a manner that is calm and assured and not anxious or egocentric. "Your invitation came as a surprise, Lord Bookworm, he remarks coolly. "Though not an unpleasant one. Your designers certainly know how to make an impression."
    "You can thank my ancestors for this. I merely continued the tradition." Lord Bookworm's voice was silky smooth and refined, appropriate for a noble of his stature. He gestured expansively at the seat next to him. "Please, take a seat. Tea?" Oddly enough, the young lord opted to pour the tea himself for his guest, instead of having a minion to do it. Feathergrin could almost see an elderly servant grimacing at this break of tradition. In any case, he offered the gently steaming cup politely to Feathergrin.

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    Quote Originally Posted by Grif View Post
    "You can thank my ancestors for this. I merely continued the tradition." Lord Bookworm's voice was silky smooth and refined, appropriate for a noble of his stature. He gestured expansively at the seat next to him. "Please, take a seat. Tea?" Oddly enough, the young lord opted to pour the tea himself for his guest, instead of having a minion to do it. Feathergrin could almost see an elderly servant grimacing at this break of tradition. In any case, he offered the gently steaming cup politely to Feathergrin.
    "Of course," he says, accepting the cup gracefully. "It's been too long since I've been treated to a cup of tea in pleasant company. The common graces here are so often lost on the road. Your house seems to be thriving, if I may say so, despite the troubled times. Though, if there's one thing I've never accounted knowledge with, it's the possibility of it going out of style." He takes his minor filibuster as an opportunity to see if Bookworm takes a sip of his tea first.
    D&D is the only game I can think of (with the possible exception of Calvinball) where the only way to lose is by playing to win.
    "'Elvish barbeque' is what happens when the Quessir send one of their Evokers to deal with an orc invasion and then go home for the evening." - Elmah Dryearghymn, an elven Evoker, as depicted to the left

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    Quote Originally Posted by Kelvin360 View Post
    "Of course," he says, accepting the cup gracefully. "It's been too long since I've been treated to a cup of tea in pleasant company. The common graces here are so often lost on the road. Your house seems to be thriving, if I may say so, despite the troubled times. Though, if there's one thing I've never accounted knowledge with, it's the possibility of it going out of style." He takes his minor filibuster as an opportunity to see if Bookworm takes a sip of his tea first.
    Bookworm sipped his tea without paying Feathergrin much mind, seemingly savouring the fragrant scent. "Ah yes. Thank you for your kind words. We do try our very best to survive..." He paused, as if considering his words. "... and to serve, of course." His amber eyes swung over to Feathergrin. "You must be wondering why I called you here, yes?"

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    Quote Originally Posted by Grif View Post
    Bookworm sipped his tea without paying Feathergrin much mind, seemingly savouring the fragrant scent. "Ah yes. Thank you for your kind words. We do try our very best to survive..." He paused, as if considering his words. "... and to serve, of course." His amber eyes swung over to Feathergrin. "You must be wondering why I called you here, yes?"
    "Not with as much insistence as another might," Feathergrin notes mildly, drinking from his own cup carefully. "Your information, your motives, your time."
    D&D is the only game I can think of (with the possible exception of Calvinball) where the only way to lose is by playing to win.
    "'Elvish barbeque' is what happens when the Quessir send one of their Evokers to deal with an orc invasion and then go home for the evening." - Elmah Dryearghymn, an elven Evoker, as depicted to the left

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    Quote Originally Posted by Kelvin360 View Post
    "Not with as much insistence as another might," Feathergrin notes mildly, drinking from his own cup carefully. "Your*information, your motives, your time."
    Feathergrin would find the tea to be exquisite, the very faint aroma of lavender teasing the edge of his tastebuds, all while filling his senses with the sweet scent of summer. Definitely one of the best he tasted.

    In response to Feathergrin's answer, Bookworm simply waved his hoof. The same servant who grimaced earlier stepped forward deferentially. "Rize, please bring the book I requested earlier."

    The servant's voice was full of unspoken questions. "My lord, are you certain? It... ah... it has been kept safe for a good reason."

    Bookworm's answer was calm, but with the resigned air of one who has faced this question many, many times. "Rize, am I not the head of this house at this moment?"

    "Yes, my lord."

    "Then please, trust my judgement. Bring the book."

    "Yes, my lord." The servant retreated quickly. A note of disappointment hung in the air.

    Bookworm glanced at Feathergrin again. "You'd have to forgive their reluctance. Our house has a tradition of insularity, and we do not share easily."

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    Quote Originally Posted by Grif View Post
    Feathergrin would find the tea to be exquisite, the very faint aroma of lavender teasing the edge of his tastebuds, all while filling his senses with the sweet scent of summer. Definitely one of the best he tasted.

    In response to Feathergrin's answer, Bookworm simply waved his hoof. The same servant who grimaced earlier stepped forward deferentially. "Rize, please bring the book I requested earlier."

    The servant's voice was full of unspoken questions. "My lord, are you certain? It... ah... it has been kept safe for a good reason."

    Bookworm's answer was calm, but with the resigned air of one who has faced this question many, many times. "Rize, am I not the head of this house at this moment?"

    "Yes, my lord."

    "Then please, trust my judgement. Bring the book."

    "Yes, my lord." The servant retreated quickly. A note of disappointment hung in the air.

    Bookworm glanced at Feathergrin again. "You'd have to forgive their reluctance. Our house has a tradition of insularity, and we do not share easily."
    "So I've come to recognize. I don't mean to sound ungrateful, but what makes me of all ponies worth shifting that tradition for?"
    D&D is the only game I can think of (with the possible exception of Calvinball) where the only way to lose is by playing to win.
    "'Elvish barbeque' is what happens when the Quessir send one of their Evokers to deal with an orc invasion and then go home for the evening." - Elmah Dryearghymn, an elven Evoker, as depicted to the left

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    Quote Originally Posted by Kelvin360 View Post
    "So I've come to recognize. I don't mean to sound ungrateful, but what makes me of all ponies worth shifting that tradition for?"
    Lord Bookworm took another sip of his tea, rather than answering directly. He allowed a few moment of silence elapse, letting the crackle of the fire fill the room, before finally speaking again. "Unlike my predecessors, I'm rather more open to ... things which are considered unorthodox to my house." He set this cup down gently. "Did you know I'm actually fourth in line for the succession of the head of this house just a year ago? Of course, you wouldn't know that. House Illuminati keeps even the issue of succession a secret. Truth be told, we're still quite a traditional house. The title of Lord of House Illuminati is passed down through primogeniture. My uncle and his sons looked set to be the next lord of Illuminati. As for me..." Bookworm chuckled. A rather wistful sound. "I was considering a quiet career in the Trotingham University. I'm rather fond of insects. Planned on studying them even."

    A noise behind him indicated the return of the servant. Bookworm gestured towards Feathergrin. "Ah good, Rize. Hand the book over to Lord Feathergrin here, if you please."

    Feathergrin would be presented with a large black tome. The title "Artis Magicae" is embossed in dull bronze on the cover. It looked ancient, the black leather wrinkled and showing the usual sign of wear, but otherwise was extremely well-preserved. One could sense that this book might even predate the lordly house itself.

    "A fine specimen isn't it? One of the three known treatise of forbidden arts by Starswirl the Bearded himself." Bookworm sipped his tea again. "And all highly illegal under royal law." Bookworm was probably understating things here.
    Last edited by Grif; 2015-01-02 at 03:45 AM.

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