TW: Spire City II IC

[Nemesis67]

Dawn Syndicate
Loyalty: 10

To the Dustmire Dustlings (10)

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Knock a [Wealth] off my Equipment price and I'll tell you what I know.

Don't worry about the Red.

[OOC: By the way, due to my misunderstanding of the rules, your Wealth will be delivered the start of next turn, as I thought I could pay the same action it was produced. Hopefully that's still alright?]

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Lyrica
Loyalty: 6

Spoiler: To the Dustmire Dirtlings

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The burlap-robed Homonculi which answered the door offered Cecil Earthencraft no words in response, but did greet him with a nod. It turned to what was presumably one of its other brethren behind the door, some silent communication was presumably passed between them, and Cecil could catch a glimpse of movement as the other unseen Homonculi ran off to pass the message.

Minutes passed. The Homonculi did gesture to Cecil its willingness to lead him to the anteroom so he may wait for the Alchemist to arrive in comfort, but otherwise did nothing to insist on it. Just then, the sound of footsteps shuffling could be heard, and the Homonculi moved aside... to make way for its mistress, the preeminent Alchemist of Spire City.

"Oh, Ser Cecil! You surprised me, I wasn't expecting you!"

And whatever mental image that the chief of the Dustmire Dirtlings might have had of her before then, the actual Lyrica Springsong most likely looked like nothing of the sort. With golden hair flowing down her shoulders and around her petite frame, Lyrica didn't look so much like a puissant master of her art, as she did look like a young girl barely into her adolescence. Togged in a flowery green dress that complemented her baby-faced visage, one would even say that she looked more cute than anything else.

Or at least they would, if her dress wasn't sooty and stained, if she didn't have smear marks on her cheeks, and her golden hair wasn't in a tangled mess. She looked as though she had been cooped up in her alchemical laboratory for several days straight, and for all Cecil knew, that might not be so far from the truth.

"You want to take me to lunch? Oh, su-whoa!"

Lyrica exclaimed, for a couple of her Homonculi had suddenly yanked her back into the Atelier from the door, which slammed shut in Cecil's face.

---

Minutes Later

The Homonculi did not leave Cecil Earthencraft unattended for too long, with one of them having returned soon after to stand escort, while others even offered him some tea where he stood. Then, the door opened again, and Lyrica stumbled out like she was pushed from behind.

"Whoa, whoa... ooh, oh!"

Although she was still in her green dress, it must have been a fresh new set, for it was sparkling clean and pressed. Lyrica herself looked much better than before, with well-groomed hair and a pristine face. Judging by the pink blush on her cheeks and the slightly shell-shocked expression she wore, she must have been forcibly thrown into the shower and given a quick and hasty scrub by her own Homonculi, just to make her presentable enough to go out for lunch with her unexpected guest.

"Sigh, I wish they weren't so rough... oh! Ser Cecil! And a good day to you, too!"

Lyrica exclaimed, putting her fingers together as she finally got the chance to properly speak with the dirtling chief.

"So... what are we doing, again?"

For all of her vaunted talent and genius, it seems that she somehow managed to forget Cecil's purpose for being here in the span of a few short minutes...

[ArcaneStomper]

The Guild to Atelier Lyrica

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The problem with your proposal is that as you have pointed out there is a limited number of potential buyers for high quality goods in this city. The rest simply seek the cheapest goods. They don't care about the quality as long as they can get the most value for their money.

And quite frankly either of our production facilities could saturate that high quality market on its own. So how do you propose ensuring a distribution of market share.

The Allspire to Atelier Lyrica

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We are leery of marking any of our products with another's mark. We do not all after know what standards it was being held to. And we do not particularly want our customers to associate our goods with anyone other than ourselves.

How much of an increase in sales do you estimate we would see if we were to agree to this proposal?

(Preemptive GM answer: I don't know how much of an increase they or you would see. It would depend on how much of the city you managed to convince to only buy Alchemists guaranteed goods. Right now all the factions just look to see whether it would be more cost effective to buy equipment from someone else or build it themeslves.)

House Dravor to Atelier Lyrica

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I would definitely agree to talk with the monks on your behalf. They do tend to be reasonable people. But it might be in your best interests to talk with the Divine Eye first, and see what he has to say about your plans instead of presenting them with a situation they need to deal with out of nowhere. The monks are dealing with a schismatic conflict already. They might be willing to issue an exception for you.

The Allspire to the Dustmire Dirtlings

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We don't have any current need for customized machinery. But we will bear you in mind if such a need ever arises.

The Silence to the Dustmire Dirtlings

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The ogre finds Mop-Bot again. It is glassy eyed and singing a song about the darkest lights and the space between time.

The Sentient Entities Union to Dustmire Dirtlings (PM)

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Golem 88 arrives at the Dustmire workshops to see just what Cecil is going on about.

To Dustmire Dirtlings (GM)

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I think most people just forgot really.

Ok.

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Lyrica
Loyalty: 6

Spoiler: To the Guild

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Oh, that's probably simpler than you'd think it'll be, Guildmaster. Your Guild can have all of it! Or at least as much of it as they can keep hold of on their own, anyway.

Just between you and me, Lyrica's actually been thinking of getting out of the Equipment market for a while, now. It takes a growing amount of effort just to break even, it's not healthy for my relationships with peers such as yourself, and honestly, I could probably turn much better profits if I stuck to Glasteel and my fighting children. I only started selling Equipment to get the Atelier's name out there in the first place, after all; so if I can stop doing so and still keep the Atelier a household brand, that's a perfectly good reason for me to do just that!

So if you work together with me on this, Lyrica dare say that you can kill two birds with one stone here. You get to cross out the Atelier as a direct competitor for your services, and if we do enough work together to make folks suspicious of generic, unbranded stuff, you could have a great opportunity to rule everyone else out as a potential threat to your business as well! Could be the chance of a lifetime to keep your Guild's dominant hold over the Equipment market for the foreseeable future, don't you think?

Or, perhaps you'd prefer to wait until one of them grows big enough to challenge the Guild's hold over the market? As far as Lyrica can tell, it's only a matter of time, you know?

Do get back to me soon!

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

Spoiler: To Allspire

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You're worried about the standards? Well, how about this; what if Lyrica told you that it isn't just any mark? What if I were to produce a special mark that would auto-magically conduct the 'rigorous inspections' on your products for you, and you could even determine what you want the mark to check for? Sure would save you quite a bit of time and money compared to doing it by hand for one, don't you think?

And sure, I understand how associating your products with just anyone else might be an issue. But Lyrica's not just anyone, don't you see? The Alchemist of Spire City herself wants to endorse your products, and do you honestly think that's a problem for you? Lyrica would be jumping for joy, if I were in your shoes. It's the maker of Glasteel who's saying your stuff is the best after all, and you did come up with Blackwire because of Glasteel. Oh yes, I know about that. Quite the open secret, really.

So, if you're asking how this will help your sales? Lyrica's an alchemist, not a diviner, so I can't say for sure beyond "a lot". And, if we can make it such that no one would ever consider buying anything that doesn't have my Guarantee on it, it would be a great boost to your business indeed!

Or, perhaps you'd prefer to wait until one of the new business folks grows big enough to overtake Allspire as the main supplier of materials in the Spire? As far as Lyrica can tell, it's only a matter of time, you know?

Do get back to me soon!

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

Spoiler: To House Dravor

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Oh, that's interesting to know! I would definitely do that then. Much thanks, Lord Lastor, and I'll tell you all about it once I've had my little chat with the Divine Eye head honcho!

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

Spoiler: To the Divine Eye

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Salutations, Divine Eye Above All! And all that jazz... sorry, Lyrica has no clue how to start this letter! Never did write to you before, at least not that I remember. Do forgive me for this, okay?

Anyway, someone said I should talk to you first about something I've got brewing in my head, and so I'm doing just that. See, Lyrica's had a bit of an inspiration lately, and thinks she just might be able to synthesize Cloudstuff if she really puts her mind to it. Our mutual nameless friend said you'd be really annoyed if Lyrica did that though, something about the whole thing being 'holy and inviolate'.

But, he also said you just might be willing to grant Lyrica an exception because, erm, reasons. So I'm wondering, would you really do that for me?

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

[Mr Cobbsworth]

The Mithril Bank
Loyalty 16

Steward's Log 3055/T1/Post Mid: Toga Slate

The Tea Maker's were hit quite hard this morning. Another example of a long-standing guild that forgot to keep its guard up. I'm just glad Figgis from accounting suggested that we put out patrols when he did. It's incredible how often tavern boasts turn out to be good intuition. Result: We've kept the peace in our sector, and perhaps people will be reminded that under the mattress isn't a safe place to hide ones gems.

Spoiler: Cecil of the Dustmire Dirtlings, GM

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OOC: I'm sorry I thought we'd confirmed this transaction; do I just say: I send you four wealth in exchange for 25 weapons & 25 industrial grade tools. IC: The day after Cecil gives word that the parts are done a pair of Mithril Bank Dwarf patrols divert from wandering the streets & delivers four wealth worth of gold-filled backpacks. Cecil willing(?), they take the goods home with them. If successful, Toga suggests the deal be repeated next turn.

Spoiler: The Reddinfel

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OOC: Not sure if this is required or actually put in writing, but if Hadren Hatchet comes to the Bank he can walk away with four wealth. The wealth is brought out to Hadren (opposed to Hadren having to go through all those pesky security measures).

IC: The Steward, directly to Hadren Hatchet. "A joint venture against the Kaxxix? I would like to put them down a notch, but we're a bank. While fond of the axe, we prefer the shield. We've got a castle to guard, and a reputation as 'good' and 'protective'. That in mind, we can arrange to supplement your forces by sending some plain-clothed men with you. What's the plan?

Spoiler: Tea Maker's Guild, GM

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Dear Sargon,
The Mithril Bank offers our condolences. If yourself or any of your members are in need of food or lodging we offer that too. The Spire can be dangerous, as you well know, and as we're already prepared for that we're going to redistribute some of our work-space to provide room for skilled laborers seeking shelter. (OOC: This'd be Loyal-tea or Reputation faction growth? I'm thinking to start buying land around the Mithril Bank and charging higher-than-average rent).

Sincerely,
The Steward
Mithril Bank

Spoiler: SEU - Sentient Entities Union

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Eighty Eight,

We too have interest in a secure and lawful city. To this end we have been running patrols in a randomized pattern in the districts surrounding the Mithril Bank. Eighty Eight, what in your opinion are the largest threats to safety in the Spire at present?

Steward,
Mithril Bank

[Mabn]

Titan Shipping

Spoiler: House Dravor

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Are you set to start our enterprise at [EoT]?

[A_Dinosaur]

The Reddinfel [Loyalty 19]

To the Mithral Bank

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Surely you mean [8 wealth] as previously agreed on? This is of dire improtance and I would appreciate a quick response.


Greetings again,
I hope my previous message did not offend you in any way, but I had actually intended it as an opener to more business related matters. I wish to take out a loan from your establishment of eight wealth. To be paid back by [turn 3] with an interest of 50% does this interest you? I wish to withdraw this loan by [before EoT, so you just use your midturn action to produce wealth and then send me the money]

Regards,
Hadren Hatchet

No offense taken. There's a lot of stuff on my mind. It is in our interest to increase the security of this city by giving you your desired loan. I will see what we can get together, (because Peter doesn't know how wealth mechanics work), for a 20% non-compounding interest rate per turn, maximum of three turns at 60%. Sound fair?


Regards,
Hadran Hatchet

[Mr Cobbsworth]

Spoiler: GM

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Whoops! Looks like I mis-remembered how much I was supposed to give the Reddinfel. Is it possible to generate wealth at EoT then transfer it at EoT? The desired effect being that Dinosaur can spend it as he intended?

Spoiler: The Reddinfel

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Oops! Asking GM if I can generate and give it to you at end of turn.

[ArcaneStomper]

The Guild to Atelier Lyrica

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And what are you asking in exchange for this offer of exclusive market?

Allspire to Atelier Lyrica

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Suppose your proposal works. And everyone in the city switches to only buying goods with the Atelier Lyrica guarantee on it. What guarantee would we have that you would continue to provide that service to us.

The Divine Eye to Atelier Lyrica

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I see you are misinformed. The average citizen believes we guard the secrets of Cloudstuff because it is a great religious secret. It isn't. It's just an extremely dangerous and toxic process to make that requires great care and concentration.

We try to discourage the uninitiated from attempting the process as they usually end up maimed or killed. Most people see this as being the result of our intervention to protect our monopoly on the substance, when in reality it is simply a horribly dangerous process.

League of Fine Tea Makers to Mithril Bank

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Sadly we have shelter. Our buildings were untouched. It was the people who lived in those buildings who were killed. What we could use instead are more guards to fend off further attacks. Either from the Reddinfel or opportunists seeking to take advantage of our weakened state.

Sentient Entities Union to the Mithril Bank

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The largest threat to the safety of the city is obviously the Reddinfel. They have been preying on their neighbors for years, but no one has stood up to them. And now they have grown bold enough to strike into the Commoners Quarters. It is only a matter of time before they do so again.

To Mithril Bank (GM)

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You can generate wealth in a midturn or EoT and immediately give it to someone else. But they won't be able to use it until the next midturn or EoT.

House of Dravor to Titan Shipping

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We had not planned on an expedition so soon, but can send a small force to accompany you if you have a caravan setting out this month.

[Mabn]

​Titan Shipping

Spoiler: to House Dravor

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no, we can delay. We were simply determining a departure date. When would you be prepared?

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Lyrica
Loyalty: 6

Spoiler: To the Guild

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Well... if you could help cover the costs I'm going to incur, implementing sigil-scribers into your workshops to mark every Guild product that comes out of them, that would be great! I'll have to figure it out as I go, but I assure you, I will be offering this service at cost, so it won't be too big of a dent on your pocket! Oh, and if you could endorse me as the sole official source of Glasteel, and any other wondrous material I come up with in the future, that would be swell too!

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

Spoiler: To Allspire

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Oh, I get it now. You're worried I'll screw you over by withdrawing my endorsement at the worst possible time, and leave you high and dry? When you put it that way, I sort of see where you're coming from...

Honestly, Lyrica's never actually thought of that! And why would I want to do something like that, anyway? I mostly want more people to know the name of Atelier Lyrica, so if I were to suddenly remove my endorsement like that, it means that much fewer products not bearing my mark. So, that hurts me too. I never really thought of a reason I would screw you over like that, and even now I can't see why I would do that.

Well, that's my idea of a guarantee for you! Perhaps you can think of something better I can follow? If so, do tell!

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

Spoiler: To the Divine Eye

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Extremely dangerous and toxic? Requires great care and concentration just to make sure everyone doesn't die horribly? Sounds like fun to me!

Oooh, in that case, maybe Lyrica has a proposal for you! Perhaps Lyrica could drop by for a visit, take a look at how your folks go about making this Cloudstuff? It just might inspire me to come up with ways to make the whole process so much more safer, and then I can supply you with these innovations so you can make more Cloudstuff more safely! What do you say?

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

[Mr Cobbsworth]

Mithril Bank, loyalty 16

Spoiler: Cecil of the Dustmire Dirtlings

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Written in a hurried scrawl: Hello Cecil,
Due to an unexpected economic requirement I would like to offer you a high interest investment opportunity. If you lend me four wealth now, I'll return it to you, plus two more, at end of turn.
Sincerely, The Mithril Bank

[Devilfish]

OOC: So this was a bit of a failure on my part; life gets busy, etc etc, and I was hoping to do things up in character for this post. However, for the continuum of the game and those waiting on me, I'm afraid I will have to settle for the gists of what my posts are going to boil down to. Sorry folks =/


* * *

Cecil Earthencraft and the Dustmire Dirtlings [Loyalty 10]:

Spoiler: To the Silence

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Mop-Bot returns, trembling, bearing a second message at the end of a fifteen foot pole. His feet rattle as he cautiously makes his approach, before the grips of terror finally seize him. He throws the pole with his arms flailing in the air, before activating the command word for Finleys Cowwardly Reel; as though yanked backward by an imaginary tether, Mop-Bot is evacuated immediately at 100 feet per second.

Not a man for material gain, I see.

That is fine. That is preferable, actually.

Suppose I gave you a cause you could stand behind to entice you instead?

-E

Spoiler: To the Atelier Lyrica

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The disparity in age and vibrance between the two great minds is comical; she, young and beaming and full of life, and he, old with skin like cracking cobblestone. The Sun and the Moon would engage in a pleasant walk, maybe discussing their remarkable gifts along the way. Alchemy, the art of changing the existing, and artificing, the trade of creating from what exists.

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Did you know that Dustmire's golems are born from the practice of astrology? Every one of them has a constellation's symbol carved into them, based on which is shining brightest on the night of their creation. Indeed, Cecil is not so much creating life as he is setting the golem in harmony with the universe!

Artificing and Alchemy; the two could make a powerful combination, if they could manage to work together.

The Moon would pause to rest his bones (even in the comfort of the ambulateer-golem transporting him,) conveniently in an overlook surveying the late Tea-League's territory. Cecil is a pacifist at heart- and underhanded business is the last thing he'd care to engage in.

He admits that he purposefully intended to dominate the market with his fully-stocked production lines- and after a great boon last [Midturn], he had done just that. A little birdie tells him that this has caused great distress to Miss Lyrica... to which he has a mutual solution.

Cecil proposes that Dustmire will willingly withdraw from all production markets, and will even limit their artifice/golem sales to a select few allies. He will do this without intrigue- for a compensation, of course.

Dustmire requests [4 Knowledge] each [midturn] and [EoT]. You will still be able to complete your two runes, and we will now be able to complete another. In return, an open market is yours, free of competition. If not- Dustmire admits that to fund its main project, it will only seek to tighten its grip from there; and that after last [midturn's] boon, their potential for growth is undeniable.

Old man Earthencraft has finished resting, and will allow you to consider his proposal. Come now; I know an ogre who cooks a mean dire boar.

Spoiler: To the Sentient Entities Union (PM)

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Cecil welcomes Golem 88 through his factory loading doors- the only entrance large enough to fit him at present. It is a staggering difference in stature, between the hulking golem and the elderly dirtling, but even despite Cecil's paranoid and cautious nature, he does not fear in approaching Golem 88. He remarks on Golem 88's fine design and craftsmanship-- even if for a creation intended for war.

The conversation opens with the philosophical. To Cecil's understanding, the SEU would like to see golems no longer viewed as subservient, useful only as tools. Cecil admits himself that he would see for the advancement of Dirtling-kind, and a better life than in the fields and farms of Spire City. He believes in a project which will satisfy both of your goals. It has been left nondescript, as he is judging how on-board you are to support him before revealing too much

Suppose he were to birth a creation that would change how constructs were viewed ever again?
Suppose its completion were to establish absolute order over Spire City?

Runes, your protection, and time, are all it takes to make this a reality.

Spoiler: To the Mithril Bank

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Cecil is glad to accept your offer- but is mildly skeptical that you will return his investment. Too good to be true, you might say. He requests:
1) To know what the Wealth will be used for
2) A collateral of [5 Agents], which will be returned at [EoT]
3) To know if he suspects any impending attacks on Dustmire.
(#2 is primarily to defend himself in the event of #3 )

Is this acceptable?

Spoiler: To the Dawn Syndicate

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Ah, it's all business then, I see. Very well- let's cut the middle man.

Suppose we gave you the entire order at no charge, in exchange for your continued protection of our facilities?

[Nemesis67]

Dawn Syndicate
Loyalty: 10

To Dustmire Dirtlings (10)

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Are you asking for an active guard, or for the threat of reprisal against any who attack you? Either way, I am wary of agreeing to binding agreements as a private contractor. Month by month contracts are fine, but open-ended deals are a different nature.

To explain the money situation, the Mithral Bank is negotiating a loan to an interested party to hire services of a couple of private military contractors, myself included, for operations in the Upper City. Unfortunately the dwarves do not have the [Wealth] necessary to satisfy this contract at this juncture, hence their "too good to be true" offer. Your [4 Wealth] is going to be loaned out to the Bank, who will loan it to my employer, who will pay for my services with it, so I can pay you for the [Equipment]. The net effect is you gain [6 Wealth] at no cost as well as the good will of the bank, I get my equipment, the employer will receive the aid of both contractors, and the Bank gets repaid with proper interest. Everyone wins.

So far as I'm aware, you are not targeted by any faction in the Spire, outside of Lyrica's discussions to freeze you out of business over the course of a large stretch of months, which the Guild and Allspire aren't particularly jumping for. Basically, she wants to leverage her Reputation to create a mark of quality for certain products and build a monopoly alongside the two mentioned businesses.

Now, hopefully this explanation has calmed your nerves. Free of charge, for the sake of sorting out my own payment for your [50 Equipment], and having all parties involved benefit. If you still are wary, then you can deliver the [Equipment] the start of next month.

[OOC: So prior to Midturn but after EoT.]

To the Reddinfel (PM)

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At some point, you owe me a small favor for sorting out the money situation by ensuring the Mithral Bank is given the liquid funds to loan to you, to pay me and the Spinner Hag.

[OOC: More of I want to point out I helped you with my message intercepting, and if this happens again in the future, it's going to start adding up.]

Internal (GM)

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I'm lying about the location of the operations to Dustmire to try to make sure Black Council doesn't suspect anything, as well as check if the Iron Knights will act on intercepted intelligence. What I'll do that with, I'm not sure, but I'm curious.

[Mr Cobbsworth]

The Mithril Bank
Loyalty 16

Spoiler: Cecil of the Dustmire Dirtlings

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A client of ours was granted a substantial loan, to be paid in three turns with interest. I also purchased some goods from your establishment. The banks expenses are - unexpectedly - higher than our income. As our client has already promised the wealth to a third party, it's in the Banks interest to make good on the promised loan. You and I struck a deal, and the Mithril Bank honors its deals. In this case at cost to the Bank. You are a preferred client; I'd rather you took advantage of our situation than an unknown entity.

As I'm unsure of my clients intentions I'd rather not pull defensive forces from the bank. I could send patrols around in exchange for a discount on future purchases made between us. Mutually beneficial.

I have heard of no hostile action intended toward you or your people.

(OOC: I read a loan of 8 as a loan of 4, and spent when I couldn't afford it. Now backpedaling.)

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Lyrica
Loyalty: 6

Spoiler: To the Dustmire Dirtlings

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"Nope! No dice!"

Lyrica trilled, responding disconcertingly quickly to Cecil's offer. Just as disconcerting was how she did not deviate one iota from her normal sunny tone, even as she rejected the Dirtling leader's with a twirl, a flourish, and a wag of the finger at him.

"Giving up [4 Knowledge] for good? That's a dear price to pay, and you'd have to make me a hell of an offer if I'm to even consider it. And no, giving up all your claims to the marketplace isn't going to cut it. You really should know better than to try and cheat me like that, Ser Cecil. Did you take me for some sort of naif, perhaps? I know I look the part, but come on! Pbbbft!"

The Alchemist of Spire City blew a raspberry at Cecil Earthencraft, looking for all the world like a mischievous child giving attitude to her elder, even though she towered over the old dirtling despite her diminutive stature. She then twirled around, and started bouncing aimlessly in an undefined direction, seeming to think things over. After some moments, she twirled around to face Cecil again, both index fingers to her lips.

"Ah... maybe I didn't make it quite clear why I'm not plumping for what you must think is a good offer, Ser Cecil? Might as well explain!"

"Whoever your little birdie is, well, it's correct enough. I did feel a bit threatened when your dirtlings suddenly crashed the Equipment market, at least at first. Little birdie must have taken quite a while to whisper that in your ear though, Ser Cecil."

"You see, I sat down and thought about it afterwards. And that helped me recall something; when I started selling Equipment on the market about four years back? I wasn't doing so to make a profit. And that's even more true these days. If I really wanted to make a profit, I could earn so much more [Wealth] just by synthesizing Glasteel, and only Glasteel. The profit margins are a lot better for me than if I were to produce your mundane Equipment, you see."

As she spoke, Lyrica found a large log lying on the ground, and promptly hopped up to sit on it. Finding her perch comfortable, she swung her legs gaily.

"No, I started making and selling Equipment to make a name for myself in the market. I put the mark of the Atelier on all of the Equipment I sell, you see? It's my personal guarantee, as the Alchemist, that whatever my customers are getting is the best and most reliable stuff they can find anywhere. And I make and sell a lot of this Equipment all over the Spire, so that everyone will keep seeing the Atelier mark on everything they use, and Lyrica will never be far from their minds whenever they need something."

"Still, the fact is that the Equipment market isn't all that valuable, at least to me. So when I think about it, your dirtlings entering the market is actually a good thing for me, Ser Cecil. It means I just might be able to focus on synthesizing Glasteel exclusively! All's well that ends well, except it means I'm still losing a source of brand name awareness, if I cede the Equipment market to you just like that. So..."

The golden-haired girl hopped off the log, and walked towards Cecil again. This time, she held up a finger as she approached.

"Here's my offer, Ser Cecil. Please, don't pull out of the market for Equipment or stop selling your artifices and golems on my account. In fact, I want out of the Equipment market. It's all yours, or as much of it as you can wrest away from the Guild anyway. There's a tough fight for you right there as it is, trust me."

"In exchange, I want two favors from you. First, I'd like it if you don't try to make and sell Glasteel. In fact, don't start competing with the Atelier in the Resources market altogether. Much appreciated!"

"Two..."

She held up a second finger and began, but then trailed off. Then, Lyrica put a finger on her chin, seemingly deep in thought. Finally, the golden-haired girl rubbed her head, looking slightly embarassed.

"...actually, I need to see how things unfold first, before I can tell you what my second favor will be. Can I keep that in reserve for the time being?"

Spoiler: To the Dawn Syndicate

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Salutations! It's Lyrica here! It's been a while since I've spoken to Ser Silys, how's he been?

So you see, Lyrica's going to be in the market for Information, for a good long while. Best if it were Information/Grimoires, actually. Those can be bought in the free market, of course, but what Lyrica is thinking here is that maybe it's possible I can get some from you for a better price? Do get back to me soon, okay?

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

[ArcaneStomper]

​House of Dravor to Titan Shipping

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We expect that it will be at least a month before we can establish a major expedition. Perhaps two.

The Guild to Atelier Lyrica

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We can agree to that.

Allspire to Atelier Lyrica

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The best method would be working together with our own artificers on this mark and its workings. That way instead of relying on your people to mark our products it would be a true joint effort involving the cooperation of both of us.

The Divine Eye to Atelier Lyrica

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I'm afraid that won't be possible unless you wish to take up our vows my dear. You see while the process is not inherently holy in itself it does teach our acolytes a sense of self discipline and meditation. Making it safer would allow them to be less diligent, and defeat the purpose of the making of cloudstuff in our order.

The Sentient Entities Union to the Duskmire Dirtlings (PM)

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"That sounds much as if you plan to make some sort of terrifying weapons construct to take control of the city. The Sentient Entities Union wants nothing to do with such a project. We wish to work with the society and convicne them we deserve a place in it out of respect not force one through fear. And frankly we don't want absolute order anyway. We want more order certainly, but we also represent the diversity of thought and life that can only be achieved through a certain amount of chaos."

[Devilfish]

Dustmire [10 Loyalty]:

To the Mithril Bank:

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We will arrange any further security matters in the future, but we thank you for telling us that we are safe for now. Before I offer you the wealth you seek, (which we will give, should you pursue the matter,) let me ask you this:

Is a client who you think may threaten you truly worth lending loans to? Perhaps you're better off not making the deal?

To the Dawn Syndicate:

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You put us in an uncomfortable position. We have asked for your protection, not your information at this juncture, and you have tried selling us the former in place of the latter. Furthermore the information you report- while quick, we will admit, was provided for us just as easily from the Mithril Bank as we had originally asked.

We do not want to spread any hard feelings, but we find it difficult to warrant a deduction from your tab. Please refrain from imposing any deals we had not agreed to ahead of time.

Still- you are a valued customer, we appreciate the efforts on our behalf. Perhaps we could offer you a discount on a future commission instead?

To the Atelier Lyrica:

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Cecil laughs. He laughs and laughs, and orders some champagne, and giggles once more as he pours out a glass. Lyrica Springsong would like out of the equipment business? Cecil Earthencraft would like out of Spire City!

But such an endeavor will not be an easy one; he admits that in its pursuit, the reproduction of glasteel, blackwire, or some material similar would prove very valuable to him. Still, he believes in an option which may satisfy the interests of both parties. A counter proposal to your counter proposal:

When Cecil finishes his project, Dustmire's name will never be forgotten; not in this city, not anywhere. Rather than compete with miss Springsong for the means to complete his creation, working with her would be much more beneficial than seizing any market singlehandedly. To produce your glasteel and have a namesake in such a monumental creation-- that is the reward Cecil offers.

He apologizes for the ambiguity about what the project is. There are eyes and ears everywhere in Spire City, and Dustmire needs to know who they can trust before letting anyone get involved.

To the SEU (PM):

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You misunderstand. What we will make- its glory shall unify the downtrodden and the unsatisfied.
The masses, from all races and casts, will flock to it in hope and cooperation.

It's not a weapon.

It's a monument.

(Cecil apologizes once more for his ambiguity. He needs to know who is on board before he can trust anyone with the knowledge of what it is)

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Lyrica
Loyalty: 6

Spoiler: To the Dustmire Dirtlings

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"Gaaaaaaaaaaaah...!"

Lyrica's reaction was perhaps not as Cecil might have hoped; she groaned long and loud, clutching her head as though she had a headache, mussing her hair up in the process. She looked back at him, with a slightly weary expression.

"Really, Ser Cecil? First those Impure folks, and now you? Why does everyone seem to think Lyrica will be happy to help them with their oh-so-magnificent, but oh-so-secret, it's-a-pretty-big-deal-you'll-want-your-name-on-it super-projects for free, just because I'm the Alchemist? Is it because they see me like a little girl, easily flattered? That is the case, right?!"

She complained, pouting as she did so. Unfortunately for her, she really did look the part, especially when she pouted. At length, she gave off a long and resigned sigh, and looked at Cecil again.

"If you need Glasteel, I'll be happy to sell them to you. At bulk discount prices even, if you need what I assume you'll need for... whatever it is. But Lyrica's a simple girl at heart, Ser Cecil. Just because I want to be known for my wondrous creations of alchemy, doesn't mean I care to be a celebrity myself, you know. I'm sure there's quite a few archmages out there with more pride than is good for them, and stoking their egos would be what it takes to get them on board with your plan. I'm not that kind of girl, though."

She leaned back in her chair, crossing her legs delicately, and held up a finger. Intriguingly, her girlish demeanour had disappeared, and she gave off the air of a proper Alchemist and merchant at this point.

"I'm not going to buy into anything if I don't even know what it is, Ser Cecil. That's just bad business sense. If you really want my services pro bono that badly, I have to know what I'm helping you to do first."

"As for the bit about Glasteel, I said I'd like it if you didn't try to copy my Glasteel, or anything else I come up with in the future. But if Ser Cecil create a new Resource first on your own, Lyrica thinks that's fair."

Lyrica folded her hands in front of herself, tilting her head as she looked at Cecil.

"And really Ser Cecil, I think giving up the Equipment market to you so you can fund your big project is really quite fair. It's not like it's your sole source of income, you have your artifices and golems. Is there a problem I don't know about?"

Spoiler: To the Guild

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That is great to hear! I truly look forward to working with you and your Guild from now on!

I will be putting the finishing touches on the Quality Control Sigil which we will be needing to make all this possible, at about [Turn 2 EoT]. Do you think we could schedule the official announcement, and the beginning of the Alchemist's Guarantee scheme then?

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

Spoiler: To Allspire

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Oh! Well... not a bad idea, per se. I'm not sure how well it'll work in practice, though. I mean, what I'm doing here is Alchemy after all. Artificing is a whole other matter altogether, and I'm not sure if the skills of your artificers are... compatible with mine, if you know what I mean.

On the other hand, it does involve my weaving alchemical algorithms into the basic foundation of my sigil, and perhaps they could lay the basic foundation quicker and better than I can. And that would be a more efficient way to create these Quality Control Sigils all around... yeah, it just might work! Can I get back to you in a bit, while I figure it out and see if it can be done?

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

Spoiler: To the Divine Eye

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Oh, alright! If doing it the hard way works fine for you, I guess there's nothing to it!

So, leaving that aside. Even so, there's only so much Cloudstuff you can make each [Turn] doing it by hand, right? And it must be a pretty tight bottleneck for your finances, since you can only have so much to sell.

So Lyrica was thinking, what if I could try my hand at synthesizing Cloudstuff, myself? It's not like my doing so will violate your tenets, right? Of course, we can come to an arrangement on the financial issues, if you'd like!

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

Spoiler: Internal (PM)

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Is it possible to divide the creation process of [Sigil Alchemy] into two parts, such that Allspire's artificers are responsible only for mass-producing the mundane sigils, and Lyrica's Homonculi are solely responsible for empowering them?

[Nemesis67]

Dawn Syndicate
Loyalty: 10

To Dustmire Dirtlings (10)

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[OOC: Oh, no, information was offered free of charge to get things moving. I'll be paying [4 Wealth] this turn. Sorry I didn't make that clear.]

To Atelier Lyrica (10)

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Silys is somewhere in the World Below, I believe trying to learn the magicks of the Treekin.

And, of course! A friend of the Duskmen is always a friend of mine. I suppose pricing depends on what you're asking for though. We certainly have plenty of information, but some is worth more than others.

[Mr Cobbsworth]

The Mithril Bank
Loyalty 16

Spoiler: Cecil of the Dustmire Dirtlings

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A bank isn't much of a bank if you can't trust it. I made this wagon, I'll ride it, bumps and all.

OOC: Four wealth loan approved, six to be repayed at end of turn?

Spoiler: The Reddinfel

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I believe I can swing eight as agreed upon. I'll notify you as soon as I have confirmation. Sorry for the uncertainty.

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Lyrica
Loyalty: 6

Spoiler: To the Dawn Syndicate

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Oooh! I hope he'll be back soon. I'm sure he's got so many stories to tell, and I'd love to hear them!

Anyway, if you're anything like I remember Ser Silys' Duskmen to be like, I do believe your Dawn Syndicate should have high [Rumors]. In which case, perhaps you'll be able to spare some to produce [Information/Grimoires]?

In exchange, I could supply you with [Favors/Major] to help you build your [Rumors], or alternatively [Food/Exotic] or even [Metal/Glasteel] to help you build your [Agents]. All depends on what you think you need the most. What do you think of this?

With love,
Lyrica Springsong

OOC: I'm basing this off the economic system Arcane created.)

[Nemesis67]

Dawn Syndicate
Loyalty: 10

To Atelier Lyrica (10)

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[OOC: Oh. Those things. I kinda forgot they existed after first reading the rules...]

Ah, of course. I believe my primary interest would be [Metal] and [Food], as expanding my forces is a high priority. Alternately, your famed [Glasteel] could be useful in some of my plans. But we can discuss that next month. I need to talk to my analysts to see how much information we could compile for you.

To Allspire (10)

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Greetings,

I was wondering what price you are currently asking for for [1 Unit of Blackwire]?

-Chas Murin, Knight-Commander of the Dawn Syndicate

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How many Grimiores could I make with 10 Rumors?

[Devilfish]

To the Atelier Lyrica:

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Cecil claps his hands together. "Of course. I did not mean to offend, my dear. Your noninvolvement in the marketplace will be more than enough for us to continue our efforts without the need for your glasteel; and for that, you have all of Dustmire's thanks."


[[Word will spread of this; you will find that Dirtlings will like you more.]]


"To correct my misjudgement of your own aspirations, what would you like? I'd be happy to help- where I can," he winked wryly.


He sighs, and sits back in his chair. The entres have arrived; the food is warm, though the outing had turned colder than he had intended. But all is not lost, he smiled, sitting patiently.

To the Dawn Syndicate:

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((OOC: Haha, sorry! Seems I'd envisioned you more insidious than you are!))

To the Mithril Bank:

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I like to think myself a practical man. A bank may fund investors without question, but think, man! Will you aid an entity you admit you yourself cannot trust? Will you throw fuel onto a wildfire, and assure yourself that its flames will not spread to you, or I, or all of us?

I want to help you... but what reassurance do I have that those flames will not return to me, by handing you the fuel?

Set us at ease- and it is yours.

[Nemesis67]

Dawn Syndicate
Loyalty: 10

To Dirtmire Dirtlings (10)

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[OOC: Heh. No, I'm not going to force a deal on you without your consent. That's just bad business. Anyways, if you give the loan to Mithral Bank, I'll pay you this EoT, otherwise I'll pay you once my Industry produces my Wealth for the turn. So at the start of next turn. I can vouch that you are not the target, if that reassures you. I have no idea as to any future plans of other factions, so I can't promise further out.]

[Devilfish]

Dustmire: [Loyalty 10]
To the Mithril Bank, the Dawn Syndicate:

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((OOC: Alright, for sake of holding this show up I'll go ahead along with it. I just hope you're prepared for whatever it is you're enabling :x

[Ascaloth]

Atelier Lyrica
Loyalty: 6

Spoiler: To the Dustmire Dirtlings

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"Hmmm. Well, I did say that my giving up the Equipment market means I lose a source of advertising my wares and services. I'd like to retain that with your help, if it's all the same to you."

Lyrica sat up, put a finger to her cheek, and winked.

"This is the other thing that I want. I'd like to put the mark of the Atelier on all the Equipment your people make and put on the market."

She sat back and settled in, preparing for a length explanation.

"Hear me out, Ser Cecil. Like I said, it's how my customers know the Equipment they buy from me has my personal guarantee on it, see? But, what if the Alchemist of Spire City were to endorse the products of the Dustmire Dirtlings? Marking them with the sign of the Atelier is how I'd go about it. Your sales will benefit from my Reputation backing its quality and reliability, and I get to maintain the brand awareness of the Atelier through Spire City. I even made it such that the Atelier sign can auto-magically test the Equipment it's set on and make sure it's up to standard, so it'll save your people a lot of time on quality inspections. Everybody wins!"

The golden-haired girl beamed brightly, looking more animated as she made her explanation. She then held up a finger, and tilted her head.

"It does mean I'll have to have some of my children join your workshops though, so you'd have to help cover some of my costs."

"Also, I'm pretty sure the Guild will be agreeing to a similar arrangement with me, so you might have to talk to them, see if they're fine with this. Or what it would take for them to be fine with it, as it may be. How about it? Pretty straightforward, no?"

[Nemesis67]

Dawn Syndicate
Loyalty: 10

To Dustmire Dirtlings (10)

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The Syndicate appreciates your assistance.

[Mr Cobbsworth]

Mithril Bank
Loyalty 16

Spoiler: The Reddinfel

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8 Wealth for you sir. No time for banter today Hadran. Spend wisely and keep me in the loop for our attack.

[Devilfish]

The Dustmire Dirtlings (Loyalty 10):

Spoiler: To the Atelier Lyrica

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"Mm," Cecil furrows his brow, before finishing his bite.

"I don't mind your Seal of Approval," (if that's what all this is?), "but I can't allow your children into my shops if I can't trust them to my secrecy."

And personally, the uncanny things freak me out! Cecil timidly admits.

"I'd rather you teach my how to imbue the symbol myself. It will spare your homunculi from the sweat and sparks of my shops, and it will ensure me that I know exactly what magics are behind the marks themselves."

"Sorry, my dear," he looks from over the brim of his glasses. "Can't be too careful."

Spoiler: To the SEU(PM)

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"I see I have left you unconvinced," Cecil remarks sadly. Do return if you reconsider, or if there are any other ways in which we might help eachother."