Heroica RPG - Quest #150: A Moment of Silence

[-obelix-]

Still remaining where he is, Thalion continued his conversation with the priest using diplomacy, "Let me get this straight, so the people that revered traditions, now don't like them any more, but they also don't like the reforms? How come?"

"Tell me master Nulkanvy, what did you do before you became a priest in master Grishnod employment? And what does receiving favor of Tarok each day require doing in return?"

Edited May 9, 2016 by -obelix-

[Zepher]

Sorry for holding things up! I should be good now!

"Humph." The orc turned to the huge kegs behind him and started filling a fresh mug. "Most everyone's got their drinks already, but give it a while, they'll be swarming the bar soon enough. I don't usually tend bars...we don't ever have any, most of the time....not that you'd care....but someone keeps stealing our jobs. Human."

He poured Boomingham a mug of something warm and empowering. And very very orcish.

Tarok's Blood (The user deals double damage to humans and no damage to orcs for the duration of one battle)

The orcish clan leader seemed quite jovial towards Boomingham, practically bouncing on the balls of his feet as he was addressed.

Boomingham sips the drink and sputters. "Doesn't shock me that you don't tend bar often. I wouldn't invite you to either." Boomingham continues to drink regardless. "So you're a commoner then? What clan are you under? What do you think of the leaders?"

"Yes indeed, Lord Boomingham! One of the nobility, are you? Fantastic. Welcome to Baltarok. Yes, I am Karstaal, clan leader to which this lovely city of Imaestym belongs. Are you enjoying Zardalvohl? I certainly hope so, we've put quite a bit of effort into making it into an enjoyable affair rather than just a mess of sorrow and mourning for a death that occurred a very long time ago."

"I get on very well with most of the clan leaders! General Gor is, ah, a bit rough around the edges, but Baltarok could hardly have a better defender, and Clan Aj-Kahr has become quite the powerhouse under his brief rule! Grishnod is...alas, a staunch traditionalist. And it's gotten worse as of late, if you would believe that, perhaps his daughter's sudden popularity is getting to him? And Tarvalk is Tarvalk of course, that little speech was just like him. Always rousing the people. The clan leaders are traditionally on the same level, but I'm not ashamed at all to admit he is our de facto leader - could hardly ask for a better one, even if he could use a bit more subtlety."

"Having a great time! Thanks for having us. Free booze is tough to get on most missions." Boomingham scowls around the room sizing up the other leaders. "So Gor, Tarvalk and Grishnod as the big chaps around here, as well as yourself." Boomingham hazily tries to recall if the Vauno said that the clan leaders knew about the threat, or if he should keep it a secret. He looks over at the painting of the bridge as it's unveiled. "What's that? You chaps commemorating a battle you didn't win? What for?"

Tra-Serral scooped up an Orcish Grog from off the counter beside Boomingham, downing it in a single, swift gulp, as though reaping the benefits without even acknowledging the drink.

"I do not specialize in ranged attack. Speed will not better if I cannot get my blade within range of his throat."

"Perhaps Aazuuldrahkcand could handle it, or a spell cast from your elf might take care of him. Assuming he is suitable to the task. And assuming that we suspect the archer." She levels her piercing green eyes with Boomingham. "Do we suspect the archer?"

"Not yet. Just planning, in case. He's got a good shot on anyone who wants. Should be prepared." He glances at the assassin at his side. "I've got a few questions about our mission, while I have you here. If one of the clan leaders is compromised... if one of them is an assassin wearing a disguise, that clan leader can safely be assumed dead already, right? If these assassins are here for them, they wouldn't take their place and leave them alive, right? And how likely is it that the clan leaders would have had a chance to be swapped out with?"

"Are we sure the clan leaders are a united front? Does Grishnod dislike the others enough to have them killed?"

"As for Tarvalk, did I hear some one say he's your daddy-o? Would you know if he weren't himself, and vice versa?"

[CMP]

Nerwen stepped forward to B2 and asked the same questions of the other Red Lizard Warriors across the table,

How long have you been soldiering for King Valentino? What do you think of our hosts? Noticed anything odd about the place?

"Greetings, milady, uh...elf. Not sure if you've got a word for yourself in your tongue like these...orocund? I am Artorias. Been with Valentino for around a year. My brother followed David to that bridge and never returned...Valentino's gone for just a short time and then that mess happens." His face fell into a frown, then his expression hardened. "Wasn't about to let that happen again. I trained as hard as I could and was recruited as one of his personal guards."

"Nothing odd as far as I can tell. Vendrick's being antsy. Being here where our best general died a few years ago isn't sitting right with Morkantus. Persus is being kind of...loud." Artorias shook his head, sighing as he looked over at Valentino and the clan leaders. "Damn, I need a drink..."

"Knight Perseus. Leader of this merry little band." He nodded at Nerwen fiercely. "Why do you ask? Vendrick mentioned you heroes would be here. Why? Slumming for the godsdamned greenskins?" The knight laughed loudly, his sword laying on the table in front of him. He hadn't taken any food. "Listen. I'm sure you're here to keep the peace or whatever the hell it is you people claim to do. And I can tell you this now: it's not going to last. That blueskin back there's got a big'un with him now, perhaps you should be keeping an eye on them as well as I have. A few among my fellows might value your alliance, but you're responsible for the death of a lot of good men I once served with, and if you become responsible for the death of Valentino by distracting us both, we're going to have a problem."

"Now now, Mourmoshuul, we are still guests within Imaestym, it would be ill of us to bring dishonor upon Karstaal and his clan within his own capital, we can take comfort in the fact that they would dare not try anything with thousands of Oroco outside these walls. Tell me, have you been with the general long? What do you think of the other clan leaders?"

"Hmph. We will see, staal orogo. But any more and he will spitting on Tarokai's name just as well as mine."

"I have served General Gor since he became clan leader. Some time after the bridge battle. I was helping man the garrison there, but now I've become his bodyguard. Not that he needs one. The only other clan leader that could best him in battle is Tarvalk...maybe, though, and you did not hear this from me, but he has been somewhat...less active as of late. Not that it matters, he still commands the hearts and respect of every-" a fit of raucous laughter from behind both Mourmoshuul and Skrall, from the armored soldier behind them, cut the half-troll off, and his anger rose once again.

As Skrall chatted he scanned his immediate surroundings trying to track down the would be assassins, before attempting to overhear some of the conversation from the soldier in A4. Daske held her position.

Skrall could see nearly everyone's movements with his hunter skills (as well as the simple fact that he could peer right over everyone's heads), but it was for the most part useless without knowing whose tracks he wanted to pursue. He could hear Nerwen's conversation with the armored knight.

Aazy flies up to W6 and inspects the orc guard next to him

The heavily armored peered down at the scaly critter, and, after a moment of awkward hesitation, bowed before the tiny dragon. He didn't appear to be moving, observing the feast intently. He did, however, notice a completely out of place shadow cast over himself and the guard.

Still remaining where he is, Thalion continued his conversation with the priest using diplomacy, "Let me get this straight, so the people that revered traditions, now don't like them any more, but they also don't like the reforms? How come?"

"Tell me master Nulkanvy, what did you do before you became a priest in master Grishnod employment? And what does receiving favor of Tarok each day require doing in return?"

"Back when the bridge was an issue, people valued that kind of stability. Things were changing faster than they were prepared for. Grishnod had been taken and was believed dead for over a year and Bastala was...reforming things dramatically."

"Now that the clans are all full united, and the bridge is now a doorway to the outside world, we essentially have to change. Progress is very important now; we orcs are set in our ways but we're not letting ourselves fall by the wayside again. At least, that's what I've gathered during my service to Grishnod."

"I was a priest in one of Vim-Lhzar's temples. Orcish temples are not very elaborate, nothing compared to what elves and humans build. But it was a comfortable enough life. Belief in Tarok has taken a backseat to the fervent near-worship of Tarokai...this of course being his day. Grishnod, at least recently, does not appear to be following in that belief. He is adamant that he receive Tarok's blessing each day. Its requirements? I perform the ritual, a fairly straightforward process. Being a true priest, it is in fact a spell using ether. Really, there is nothing as...immediate, like a...fireball, or a healing spell. This sort of residual magic was once believed to grant the receiver the favor of Tarok and draw his gaze on the field of battle. As I said, no real effects, but there is something soothing about being ensconced in an aura of ether, and the belief, whether deliberate or not, that one's god is smiling upon you." Nulkanvy trailed off, as if in thought. "Thank you for this chat, Master Dwinlas. It is a welcome reprieve from this atmosphere, I fear I may need some air soon, I am not used to being present in such stifling conditions."

Boomingham sips the drink and sputters. "Doesn't shock me that you don't tend bar often. I wouldn't invite you to either." Boomingham continues to drink regardless. "So you're a commoner then? What clan are you under? What do you think of the leaders?"

"Hmph. Of course a human wouldn't invite an orc to anything."

"Clan Irlaz. What do I think of our leaders? Gor is crazy, Tarvalk is old, and Karstaal is just...weird. Who is this Crimson Crown guy he's always got hanging around? Saro. And Grishnod's been slipping the past few months. You ask me, we were better off with Bastala in charge. I always liked her."

He scratched his head.

"Well. Not always. But believe you me, she wouldn't be inviting kings and heroes to dine during our holidays."

"And this commoner works damn hard for his money, sarkuun."

"Having a great time! Thanks for having us. Free booze is tough to get on most missions." Boomingham scowls around the room sizing up the other leaders. "So Gor, Tarvalk and Grishnod as the big chaps around here, as well as yourself." Boomingham hazily tries to recall if the Vauno said that the clan leaders knew about the threat, or if he should keep it a secret. He looks over at the painting of the bridge as it's unveiled. "What's that? You chaps commemorating a battle you didn't win? What for?"

"Truly? Then I hope you return to Baltarok, we keep our liquor sealed away 'til Zardalvohl or Grogmas, but I can think of at least one clan leader with a spare key to the stores and a taste for the refined company of nobility!" Karstaal grinned widely at Boomingham. "That's the thick of things, yes. The positions have been in flux more the past few years than they were for a decade and a half before that! Dear Bastala trying to pry the throne out of Grishnod's cold, but not-quite-dead fingers, Marga trying to blow up our lovely new bridge...ahh, it's been a bit of a journey. Tarok, I nearly died around then! But, I think things have worked out for the best. We've got more money than we've ever had, and there's no end to the cultural innovations the slaves we've freed have brought us from the High Kingdoms."

"Didn't win?! My Lord Boomingham, don't you know blood is not the only way to win a battle? The bridge is open! The money flows like grog! Slaves are being freed! Both sides are now having an amicable dinner together, when one's king and one's clan leader were once hostages being traded for one another. If this isn't a victory, I don't know know what is, my good sir. This is a golden age for Baltarok, and it would be absolutely deplorable if it were forgotten, at least not without a fantastic mural to survive it all."

A few more people deigned to move around. Between Nerwen and Skrall, a spilled drink suddenly set things off;

"Bes ul Olag are you doing, human?" growled Mourmshuul, shaking some of the grog off his cloak. "If you are trying to bait me, then Tarok forgive me, it is working," he snapped, through gritted teeth.

"Cool down blueskin. I have a job to do. That job is keeping an eye on the likes of you, believe me, I'm not the one who wants to start anything."

"And yet there you sit, spitting on all our names while you sit in our hall." The half-troll stood, and turned. "Do you take me for a fool, human?"

"Do you take me for one? I have more important things to do than complain about this ragged lodge you've brought a king into. Sit down." Perseus fingered the hilt of his sword intently.

Mourmoshuul growled.

"...If my actions were not reflecting on my clan leader..."

"Yeah, and I wouldn't be here if there was any other way, blueskin. So trust me when I say I don't want to be around your kind any longer than I have to," sneered the knight.

"Then I will maintain, for now, because I would hate to see your remains scattered here, among those of my ancestors," grumbled Mourmoshuul, sitting back down, fuming. "Nazarazh kuun, ezazh a nal zar..."

---ROUND FOUR OF A FEAST TO DIE FOR---

[Zepher]

OoC: Could I also get a response from Tra-Serral? I'm trying to figure out how best to use our resources, I wasn't just making small talk with her.

[CMP]

I felt like I was forgetting something.

"Not yet. Just planning, in case. He's got a good shot on anyone who wants. Should be prepared." He glances at the assassin at his side. "I've got a few questions about our mission, while I have you here. If one of the clan leaders is compromised... if one of them is an assassin wearing a disguise, that clan leader can safely be assumed dead already, right? If these assassins are here for them, they wouldn't take their place and leave them alive, right? And how likely is it that the clan leaders would have had a chance to be swapped out with?"

"Are we sure the clan leaders are a united front? Does Grishnod dislike the others enough to have them killed?"

"As for Tarvalk, did I hear some one say he's your daddy-o? Would you know if he weren't himself, and vice versa?"

"I cannot imagine why they would leave any clan leader alive. If one of them is an assassin successfully disguised..." she paused. "Then they will pay for it. In blood. All of it."

"As far as swapping one of them out, it would take a tremendous amount of effort and planning, especially considering the Vauno have doubled their guard since we uncovered this plot a year ago. I still would not rule it out. We simply don't know the extent of their task, but I can tell you I killed all of their contacts, and that it was no small number. They were prepared. To the point of successfully taking the place of a clan leader? Possibly."

"We are not the High Kingdoms," replied Tra-Serral coldly, insulted. "We do not hide ambitions or carry secret agendas, knife always ready to stab an ally in the back. Political squabbling is the place of nobles and kings, not clan leaders. If Grishnod, or any other clan leader for that matter, had this significant of a problem, there might be a Mezdalgaushrahk, a test of arms under the eyes of Tarok. That has not happened in decades, save once, and this is not how it works. If it came to blows it would not be hidden like this."

"Yes. Tarvalk is my father." She halted to consider Boomingham's question. "What answer do you expect from this? We cannot rule anyone out. If that means I must cut the throat of one wearing the face of my father then so be it. I am not trained to recognize...I do not think we can risk ruling him out."

[Waterbrick Down]

Skrall standing head and shoulders above the arguing pair stares down at Mourmoshuul and Perseus. "Keep it civil sirs, at least until the festivities have concluded." Skrall checks his Spy Glass discreetly to see if it detects any persons out of character in his immediate vicinity. "Mourmoshuul, if you'll excuse me, I'll let you return to your feasting." Skrall excused himself around General Gor moving to E4, Daske followed to D5. Skrall addressed the lady in D4. "Good evening, a wonderful night for a feast, is it not? I'm afraid I haven't made your acquaintance yet. From where do you hale and what brings your lovely company to us this evening?"

Aazy curious about the shadow moved over to W5 and inspected the archer.

[Zepher]

Boomingham glances over and watches as Skrall approaches who he intended to question next. He looks at the King and clan leaders. A guard makes his way towards the King, which Boomingham watches carefully, but other than that he doesn't have any suspects. He makes his way over to F5.

Speaking to Jaret, he asks: "It's a lovely mural. You had to pull some strings for it? So you think of the battle as a victory as well? How long have you been in Baltarok, and when exactly was the battle of the bridge?"

To Tarvalk: "Howdy there. Hear you're the biggest honcho of the whole bunch. I'm here working alongside your daughter, alongside all the Vauno. Bit stand-offish as far as festivities go, aren't you?"

Tra-Serral, meanwhile, walks over to G2.

[Chromeknight]

Nerwen sees the soldier next to her moving, she says a quick Hi Avery to the serving girl then steps lightly to E1 blocking the exit, but not leaving herself.

Apologies Morkantus, where did you say you were from? I think the bar might have drink more suited to your taste.come you should meet Lord Lawerence too.

[-obelix-]

Having spent a lot of the time talking, Thalion decided to go to a more unorthodox method, in an attempt to expose the potential assassin.

He moved closer to the table, to space C7, than picking up a glass (or a goblet) from the table, he nonchalantly drops it to the ground, and looks at the faces of the guests around the room, specifically looking for anyone who didn't have any reaction to the fallen tableware.

[CMP]

Skrall standing head and shoulders above the arguing pair stares down at Mourmoshuul and Perseus. "Keep it civil sirs, at least until the festivities have concluded." Skrall checks his Spy Glass discreetly to see if it detects any persons out of character in his immediate vicinity. "Mourmoshuul, if you'll excuse me, I'll let you return to your feasting." Skrall excused himself around General Gor moving to E4, Daske followed to D5. Skrall addressed the lady in D4. "Good evening, a wonderful night for a feast, is it not? I'm afraid I haven't made your acquaintance yet. From where do you hale and what brings your lovely company to us this evening?"

Aazy curious about the shadow moved over to W5 and inspected the archer.

Skrall checks his Spyglass. The strange device spins and whirls in its brass mechanism. Skrall can barely make heads or tails of what it's doing. Eventually there is a soft blue glow from inside it - there don't appear to be any spies or eavesdroppers in the area surrounding B5 where he is standing.

He then approaches the half-orc maid approaching one of the soldiers.

"Oh! Greetings, sir ogre." She curtsied slightly before Skrall, impressive considering the tray of dishes she was also holding at the same time. "I'm Trista, I hail from Eubric Freeport; do you know of the city? I was freed a year ago and made my way to Baltarok, and it turns out my maid-ly skills are of more use here than I anticipated! I work for Karstaal now, someone's got to keep this huge castle nice and tidy. I'm delighted to be one of the few serving at this...Zahdarvahl thing.

Aazy, meanwhile took it upon himself to slither forward near the archer. However, he didn't get very far; something in W5 appeared to stop him, and Skrall could just barely make out the tiny green dragon being tossed from the wall onto the ground.

"Aazy!"

<"GAHH!!!"> squeaked the lizard. <"Wh-What the heck just happened-?!">

"We need to get over there Skrall. I need to see if Aazy's okay and see who I'm going to be stabbing later," she snapped, eyes darting over the orcs on the wall. But neither the armored orc nor the archer (who had at this point turned and marched elsewhere) seemed to realize what had happened.

Boomingham glances over and watches as Skrall approaches who he intended to question next. He looks at the King and clan leaders. A guard makes his way towards the King, which Boomingham watches carefully, but other than that he doesn't have any suspects. He makes his way over to F5.

Speaking to Jaret, he asks: "It's a lovely mural. You had to pull some strings for it? So you think of the battle as a victory as well? How long have you been in Baltarok, and when exactly was the battle of the bridge?"

To Tarvalk: "Howdy there. Hear you're the biggest honcho of the whole bunch. I'm here working alongside your daughter, alongside all the Vauno. Bit stand-offish as far as festivities go, aren't you?"

Tra-Serral, meanwhile, walks over to G2.

"A victory? I don't really see any other way to see it...sure, the orcs took casualties, and we stood on the brink of a great war, but look how mighty Baltarok has become because of it. Perhaps some of the more traditional orcs don't see it that way, but Karstaal, as well as I, have put a great deal of effort into reforming this place. Just look at Imaestym. Both of us nearly died here along with thousands of civilians when Prince Speros of the Four Boulders attacked, and burned the city. Now it's the greatest capital in the country. It's what orcs do best, isn't it? Survive hardship. Become stronger."

"I've been in Baltarok for...hm. Nearly four years now? I was recruited by the Crimson Crown not long beforehand and my skills as a diplomat were...recognized, immediately. So I was sent here as an ambassador. We've given Karstaal a great deal of resources. At this point we've poured millions into this. The reconstruction of Imaestym - this entire city - not to mention this castle, and on top of that everything necessary to get this mural put together. Believe me when I say we've put just as much into Baltarok as Heroica."

"The Battle of Augustus Bridge was during the winter months about three years ago. Lord Boomingham, you're not the first hero to suspect me of ulterior motives, but I and the rest of the Crown have the best interest of Baltarok in mind." He crossed his arms.

"Maybe. I don't know what kind of flowery fools you're used to dealing with in the High Kingdoms, Lord Boomingham." He turned to face the portly vindicator. "Olmstyr kept me appraised about everyone who is coming to Baltarok. I respect that you fought with my ancestors, and there's no need for you to use your association with the Vauno in your favor." He bowed his head slightly. "I appreciate you speaking plainly. Simply realize that I do the same. Grishnod has become agitated as of late and someone needs to keep him in his place so long as we have company in the heart of our great nation. Perhaps I have become frustrated as of late as well." He turned his head, coughing, very roughly for a moment. "Grrph. Apologies. Preparations for this Zardalvohl have been strenuous, at best."

"Speaking of Grishnod, it seems my old friend is taking a breather." He leaned back in his seat, watching the clan leader pace around in the corner. "You will have to excuse me. I must have a word with him." The old orc pushed himself out of his chair and walked off.

Nerwen sees the soldier next to her moving, she says a quick Hi Avery to the serving girl then steps lightly to E1 blocking the exit, but not leaving herself.

Apologies Morkantus, where did you say you were from? I think the bar might have drink more suited to your taste.come you should meet Lord Lawerence too.

I apologize, I grabbed the wrong avatar. This is what happens when you use such similar figures. I've fixed it now: this is supposed to be Vendrick getting up, not Morkantus. But just so you don't get confused, note that both of them moved at the end of this round as well.

"B-whaa?" The serving girl blinks. "I apologize milady, my name is Trista. It's possible you've mistaken me for someone else? It's no trouble, I know how...sometimes difficult it is for those outside of Baltarok to tell us apart..."

"What?" asked Vendrick gruffly as he was approached by Nerwen on his way. He adjusted his axe on his belt. "Oh. You. I hail from one of the northern kingdoms. The Storm Drakes. You probably won't have heard of them."

"Funny, I was just on my way to get a drink of my own. I'd prefer to be alone for a bit though, if you don't mind. Few too many strangers around for my tastes."

Having spent a lot of the time talking, Thalion decided to go to a more unorthodox method, in an attempt to expose the potential assassin.

He moved closer to the table, to space C7, than picking up a glass (or a goblet) from the table, he nonchalantly drops it to the ground, and looks at the faces of the guests around the room, specifically looking for anyone who didn't have any reaction to the fallen tableware.

Thalion picks up one of very very few glasses on the table - most cups were wooden mugs. He lets it shatter on the ground, and eyes the crowd around for any sort of reaction. Nulkanvy sits bolt upright, and turns, startled by the sudden sound. Grishnod nearly jumps from where he's standing a short distance away and whirls around.

If anyone else noticed, they sure don't show it, as most of the noise is drowned out by the rest of the sounds at the feast.

"...Did you hear-...oh, nevermind. My nerves are getting to me." He sighs. "Excuse me for a bit Master Dwinlas, I must clear my head."

A few of the guests move about. Vendrick moves straight past Nerwen to the bar. Thalion can hear Tarvalk moving up behind him by Grishnod. Karstaal, beside Tra-Serral, grabs a tankard off the bar and sips it quietly. Trista the serving girl, behind Skrall, leans in towards Artorias the soldier.

"Excuse me sir. King Valentino mentioned his soldiers may be thirsty from your trip, I was wondering if-"

"Oh, thank Ennoc. Yes, I'll take one of these...big orcish tankards of whatever you have." He shook his head. "It's been a long night...."

---ROUND FIVE OF A FEAST TO DIE FOR---

Edited May 18, 2016 by CallMePie

[Waterbrick Down]

"Sorry, ya'll have to excuse me miss." The ogre turned to Daske "Ya go check on Aazy." Skrall quickly moved to W6 squeezing past the guard if possible, "'Scuse me chap, important business for the Vauno" Daske moved to I7 to ensure Aazy was alright.

OoC: So is the mural under W4 & W5?

[CMP]

Yes.

[Zepher]

OoC: Sorry Pie, as WBD has indicated this is a thinker, and I'm also pretty busy with celebrating my impending graduation. Tarvalk didn't reply to me, was that intentional?

Boomingham glances over at the dragon and wonders about it's little fall, but saw Skrall going to deal with it. It seemed to Boomingham, at this point, the smartest thing to do would be to just separate the clan leaders from the subjects, but he could understand the issues with doing something like that.

He makes eye contact with Nerwen as a soldier brushes by her, trying to gauge if he and she should make a move against him. Worse come to worse, if they detained the wrong person, they could release them later. He was without leads at the particular moment...

Boomingham moves to F3. He hadn't thought of suspecting those not wearing masks, but the idea was starting to form in his mind. Something about Jaret's insistance in not having ulterior motives... his cause may still be good... but on the other hand, Boomingham had no real proof for it.

"King Valentino, a pleasure to meet you. I am Lord Lawrence Boomingham, of the Lost Kingdom. It's lands lie some ways south of yours, but it was lost between the Orcish Wars and now while I was indisposed, trapped out of time. It's a long tale. Regardless, it is a great pleasure to meet another leader from the High Kingdoms." Boomingham bows. "It is incredible that you've come this far into the Orcish territory! Would have never been thought of in my day. Of course it's safer when you have the most soldiers in the room." Boomingham chuckles. "These all Red Lizard men, born and raised?"

Tra-Serral stays where she is, keeping on eye on the soldier to her right.

[CMP]

OoC: Sorry Pie, as WBD has indicated this is a thinker, and I'm also pretty busy with celebrating my impending graduation. Tarvalk didn't reply to me, was that intentional?

Damn it. Again. :laugh: His reply has been edited in.

If you guys have any more concerns feel free to voice them in PM, hopefully WBD passed my response onto the rest of you.

[Chromeknight]

Nerwen sees Boomimghams look and shakes her head subtly, the then inclines it at the soldier she was about to speak to.

Olmstyr moves at her signal to D9 to listen in on Tarvalk and Grishnod.

Morkantus,you said you've been serving Valentino for a year? And that you knew General Mint? I met him once too you know.

speaking to Valentino she says.

What do you think of the mural your majesty. Sounds like it took longer to make than the bridge itself?

Edited May 18, 2016 by Chromeknight

[Waterbrick Down]

OoC: I don't think Olmstyr and Boomingham can be in the same spot.

"Someone should probably keep an eye on that door," Skrall points in Grishnod's direction.

[CMP]

Nerwen sees Boomimghams look and shakes her head subtly, the then inclines it at the soldier she was about to speak to.

Just so we're clear, is she speaking to Morkantus (who is sitting) or Vendrick (who is moving)? I had them mixed up for that last round.

[Chromeknight]

This one.

"A little warm drink never killed anyone, Ven. Morkantus, milady. Didn't even know Heroica would be here tonight. Heard you kill the bastard paladin foolin' the prince? My thanks. The four of us have been serving Valentino for about a year now, ever since those other heroes got him out from that...half-breed mage."

[-obelix-]

Thalion addresses the orc at C8: "Greetings! I dont believe we've met; my name is Thalion Dwinals." He says with a slight bow, keeping his eyes on the orc at all times.

Turning to priest, Thalion replied, "Of course master Nulkanvy, but why the rush? Surely you can enjoy the festivities a bit longer!?"

[CMP]

"Sorry, ya'll have to excuse me miss." The ogre turned to Daske "Ya go check on Aazy." Skrall quickly moved to W6 squeezing past the guard if possible, "'Scuse me chap, important business for the Vauno" Daske moved to I7 to ensure Aazy was alright.

"Sure thing, sir."

The ogre and hobgoblin sprung into the action. Daske carefully scooped up Aazy for a moment.

"You okay buddy? What the heck just happened??"

<"I got kicked off the wall! I'm sorry, Daske...">

"Don't worry about it, just tell me who I need to stab!"

<"I-I don't know. I couldn't see him. But when I got knocked down I could see him...a bit...because I...I think his cloak was making him invisible! All in armor, w-with a real mean-looking helmet, and...his head was on fire!!">

"Damn! Did ya see where he went, Aazy?"

<"I...think...I think he m-might've....jumped off the wall.">

"Into the feast?! That's a hell of a drop!"

<"...N-No. Out of the castle. He's gone.">

Boomingham moves to F3. He hadn't thought of suspecting those not wearing masks, but the idea was starting to form in his mind. Something about Jaret's insistance in not having ulterior motives... his cause may still be good... but on the other hand, Boomingham had no real proof for it.

"King Valentino, a pleasure to meet you. I am Lord Lawrence Boomingham, of the Lost Kingdom. It's lands lie some ways south of yours, but it was lost between the Orcish Wars and now while I was indisposed, trapped out of time. It's a long tale. Regardless, it is a great pleasure to meet another leader from the High Kingdoms." Boomingham bows. "It is incredible that you've come this far into the Orcish territory! Would have never been thought of in my day. Of course it's safer when you have the most soldiers in the room." Boomingham chuckles. "These all Red Lizard men, born and raised?"

Tra-Serral stays where she is, keeping on eye on the soldier to her right.

"Ah...yes. It is indeed a pleasure to meet you, Lord Boomingham. The Lost Kingdom, you say? I heard that tale more than once when I was a young prince, myself. Strange how some kingdoms can just disappear in the blink of an eye. Yours wasn't the first, or last, I'm afraid, perhaps the king of the lost province Anakreus has also found his way into a...prodigious group like Heroica."

"Yes, believe me when I say my presence here is as much a shock to me as it is to anyone else. Just a few short years ago I thought would surely perish in captivity here. I suppose I'm lucky in that regard, orcs are not known for taking prisoners, and it appears as though my captor was the only half-orc of any reputation here. After the Battle of Augustus Bridge, and the following...changes, in my court, talks between my kingdom and the local clan have...well. They exist. No great strides, but I think the slow steps towards better relations are preferable when it comes to dealing with Baltarok. No small number of other kingdoms do not approve of me so much as talking to them. It is their loss I'm afraid, I will not allow the Red Lizards to stay stuck in the past while the orcs of Baltarok build towards their own future," he stated flatly. "It's been more trying that I anticipated trying to negotiate with the other kingdoms for the release of their orcish slaves, but Clan Leader Karstaal has put forth much of his support and money for that venture."

"Certainly. It is tradition for the king's guard to be selected from the most promising soldiers that the army recommends. It is not a job they take lightly, and it's certainly not a task for mercenaries or foreign troops. As far as my bringing them here, I simply need to make a better impression than was made on that bridge several years ago. I don't claim to know orcish tradition, but I know enough to see bringing an army of diplomats with me would cause issues. None of the orcs seemed to mind me having my guards with me."

"Were this anywhere else in the world, I would have brought my son, Prince David. But I think perhaps that is a wound that still needs healing, for both us and the orcs."

Nerwen sees Boomimghams look and shakes her head subtly, the then inclines it at the soldier she was about to speak to.

Olmstyr moves at her signal to D9 to listen in on Tarvalk and Grishnod.

Morkantus,you said you've been serving Valentino for a year? And that you knew General Mint? I met him once too you know.

speaking to Valentino she says.

What do you think of the mural your majesty. Sounds like it took longer to make than the bridge itself?

"General Mint? You must be mistaken, milady - I served under General Hamilton, best commander the Red Lizards have ever seen. He died trying to keep that hotheaded Boulder prince from killing all the orcs, and in return they-" His face darkened slightly. "...killed him, in this very palace, I think. But I bet you know all about that, miss."

"Hm?" Valentino looked sideways at the mural. His expression was unreadable...or perhaps just too complex for her to figure out. "...Perhaps. I was not even present to see that project finished. That feels like a lifetime ago now. Strange to...commemorate that incident, but I suppose it certainly was significant."

Thalion addresses the orc at C8: "Greetings! I dont believe we've met; my name is Thalion Dwinals." He says with a slight bow, keeping his eyes on the orc at all times.

Turning to priest, Thalion replied, "Of course master Nulkanvy, but why the rush? Surely you can enjoy the festivities a bit longer!?"

The old orc seemed distracted, and turned only briefly to Thalion.

"Tarvalk. Clan leader of clan Tarokin. You will have to excuse me for just a moment, Dwinlas. There is something I need to discuss with my old friend here."

"Oh, I was not leaving, Master Dwinlas. I simply need a moment away from these crowds. This blessing remains taxing on me, and truthfully I was never one for festivities..."

The feast rolled on. Many people moved about, some towards the bar. Tra-Serral kept a close eye on all the going-ons there. The Red Lizard soldier, Vendrick, glanced at her, suspicious of the orc, as he had his ice-cold mug refilled with some drink. He surreptitiously left a bag of ostensibly gold on the counter in its place.

A few were also privy to more than one conversation going on.

"Your highness, I'm not convinced this is a good idea."

"The problem, Morkantus?"

"Something's off. Perseus is having a rough time with these greenskins. These heroes are asking questions all over the place. Who the hell is that human the orcs have with them? Something is going down and I don't know what it is. It's my recommendation we bail. I don't know what kind of politics these orcs having going for them but I know when I'm looking at a lit powder keg, milord."

"Not an option. It is essential that this meeting goes down smoothly. This is the first time in centuries a king has peacefully set foot in Baltarok and that cannot be jeopardized, even in the case something does happen. And quite frankly, I have survived much worse than this."

"With all due respect, your majesty, I know we need to put on a good show for the other kingdoms, I know we're being progressive and what have you, but how could that possibly be worth your life?"

"Even if your feelings on this are clear, I have no intention on dying here tonight, Morkantus. Even I do, the Red Lizards' legacy will outlive all of us," he explained stiffly. "We were almost poised to be remembered for starting the second Orcish Invasion. For being manipulated. It is taken a great deal of work to reverse those perceptions and I will not throw it away so that we can be remembered as cowards who fled at the first sign of danger. The Red Lizards do not abandon a cause. I appreciate your concern, but sit. We are staying."

"...Right. Of course, King Valentino."

On the other side of the hall, Thalion and Olmstyr were able to hear one clan leader approach another

"Grishnod."

"Tarvalk. Should you not be entertaining your guests?"

"We must speak."

"I've made my opinions on this event clear."

"I have heard. Everyone can hear." Tarvalk coughs loudly. "So spit it out, basulsar. It is not like you to avoid confrontation. Or have you grown soft as your clan turns against you?"

"You forget you are not the orcish king, Tarvalk. You do not speak for all of us."

"No. I speak for every true orc. All who wish to see Baltarok grow and claim its place in the world. You once believed in tradition as much as I. But you have changed...or rather, you have failed to. You always know what is best for your clan, so why, then, do you continue to hold them back? Where is the fire I saw when you came back from the dead to take back Clan Irlaz," he growled. "You were not this petty zerun of an orc. You have grown weak...and I do not know why." Tarvalk's red eyes glared suspiciously into the intimidated Grishnod's. "Find your strength again, lest your daughter come and best it." He turned and stalked off.

---ROUND SIX OF A FEAST TO DIE FOR---

Edited May 19, 2016 by CallMePie

[Waterbrick Down]

Seeing that the coast was clear, Skrall headed back down the wall to H7 checking his spyglass when he arrived. "Daske, if Aazy is alright ya two better go see about helpin' Olmstyr over there." Daske and Aazy move to D8 and D7 respectively.

[Zepher]

Boomingham listens to the strange conversation between the King and his knight. Was he trying to get alone with the ruler?

Boomingham glanced at Nerwen, trying to guess their next move. Whatever was happening on the other side of the room would be Thalion's move, but he felt he and Nerwen were responsible for the Red Lizard soldiers as well as the orcs around the bar... he moves to E2 and talks in a low whisper to Nerwen (I don't think this counts as an action).

"What's the call, Party Leader? I think Jaret checks out - he and Karstaal seem to match stories and are comfortable enough around each other that it'd be strange. That leaves us with pale green-skinned lady or any one of the knights."

He glances at Morkantus. "What makes you think we're in a powder keg, chappo?"

Tra-Serral continues to wait at the bar, in case they need to move against one of the folks on either side of her.

[-obelix-]

Thalion moves to B8 and addresses both Grishnod and Tarvalk using diplomacy, "Gentlemen, surely there is no need for hostility tonight!? Master Tarvalk, are you accusing master Grishnod?"

Edited May 23, 2016 by -obelix-

[Chromeknight]

Speaking to Morkantus she says.

Im sorry. You sound like you were here with General Hamilton? I was told the heroes helping the orcs left no kingdom man alive. And you did say you'd been with His Majesty since he got back from his captivity? Wasn't that more than a year ago?

[CMP]

The next time things need to move along, somebody else can post suggested actions after 24 hours have passed, this is taking quite a lot longer than I anticipated. No rush if you're all strategist behind the scenes but I feel like 24 hours between each post is really stretching this out.

Seeing that the coast was clear, Skrall headed back down the wall to H7 checking his spyglass when he arrived. "Daske, if Aazy is alright ya two better go see about helpin' Olmstyr over there." Daske and Aazy move to D8 and D7 respectively.

Skrall's spyglass whirled around again. There were no threats in any of the spaces around H7.

"Got it. Just let us know if you need anyone pinned down. I think the feast is gonna end soon..."

He glances at Morkantus. "What makes you think we're in a powder keg, chappo?"

Talking to allies and such is free, yeah.

"Vendrick says you've all been asking questions, and it seems like more than a few of the greenskins here are on-edge. This is looking less like a feast by the second and more like a setup." Morkantus frowns. "What the hell is going on here? Because if it poses any kind of threat to King Valentino, I need to know about it."

Thalion moves to B8 and addresses both Grishnod and Tarvalk using diplomacy, "Gentlemen, surely there is no need for hostility tonight!? Master Tarvalk, are you accusing master Grishnod?"

"...hmph."

"I'll leave the accusing to you and the other heroes. But I wouldn't put it past this saroro here."

"You think me a traitor?" snarled the clan leader. "Just because I don't fall in line with the rest of these fools? This does not make me a liar; it means you don't command the respect you once did."

Tarvalk crossed his arms and glanced sideways at Thalion perceptively.

"Tradition demands-"

"You can stow your useless traditions. And you-" he glared at Thalion, "-you have no right to even be here. Our affairs are none of your business, so remove yourself from ours."

Speaking to Morkantus she says.

Im sorry. You sound like you were here with General Hamilton? I was told the heroes helping the orcs left no kingdom man alive. And you did say you'd been with His Majesty since he got back from his captivity? Wasn't that more than a year ago?

"Not here, but he was the head of our army for several years. He was the only one who came here. To halt the Four Boulders. And I only joined King Valentino's personal retinue after his return from captivity..." his eyes narrowed slightly. "Is this an interrogation? Is that what all this is about?"

The guests at the feast shuffled around once more. Grishnod, clearly cornered, seemed content to hang back. Morkantus returned to his seat while Vendrick leered at Boomingham waiting to get back to his. Tra-Serral looked away from the pouch Vendrick left at the bar to Trista, who was collecting the drink ordered by Artorias the knight. Jaret leaned against the bar on the maid's other side.

"So....what exactly is being served here tonight? I haven't had a drink in ages."

"Hrmph. Of course not, you're in Baltarok...human. Let's see, Tarok's Blood, Orcish Grog."

"Oh. Dear. Nothing quite that strong, thank you. But some wine, perhaps...this night is giving me a headache."

"Maybe rip that metal out of it," grumbled the bartender as he poured the drink.

---ROUND SEVEN OF A FEAST TO DIE FOR---

Edited May 24, 2016 by CallMePie