Shy

[center][img] http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/maceyellen-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img] http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/victoriaann-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img] http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/fauntleroy-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img] http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/gustave-avatar.gif[/img] [img] http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/marieevangeline-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img] http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/gadgetgerrault2avatar.jpg[/img][/center] [size=1][indent]Fauntleroy let out a heavy sigh as the group continued wandering through the tunnels. While he appreciated his sisters’ courage, there was no denying the enormous danger their mission presented. On one end of the tunnel would undoubtedly be certain death at the hands of The Underdogs, while on the other, Beatriste. Needless to say, Fonty longed for the quiet comfort of a glass of wine. “[b]I’m sorry for everything my family has done to you, Gadget[/b]” Fonty said softly, “[b]My father had done so many terrible things to you, and you are only a boy…[/b]” “[b]I could say the same about my parents, Fonty,[/b]” Gadget replied, “[b]I feel no guilt for what my parents have done to you, nor should you for what Leonhart has done to me. The only thing we can do is try not to repeat those mistakes.[/b]” “[b]I agree that something must be done, but we have no choice but to go back,[/b]” Fonty said as he stared at the train tracks, “[b]We’ll call for the Guard as soon as we exit the tunnels, and they can handle things from there.[/b]” “[b]What about Auntie Catherine and Grandpa?[/b]” Victoria Ann pouted, “[b]You can’t just ignore them, like you did with that picture![/b]” Even now he had no idea what the strange photographs he had taken meant, yet it seemed obvious now that they were a warning of some kind. He knew that he had been foolish not to act on his discovery, but it would be even more foolish now to endanger his family with an act of heroism. "[b]I'm sorry, Victoria. But we have to be realistic...[/b]" "[b]No.[/b]" Gadget stamped his foot on the ground boldly. He wasn’t going anywhere. “[b]There’s no time,[/b]” Gadget said sternly, “[b]We have to do something now.[/b]” “[b]You can’t be serious. Not only are we unarmed, but The Underdogs certainly outnumber us. It’s not as if we can simply sneak in and rescue them both.[/b]” Victoria Ann’s eyes lit up, “[b]Why can’t we? I’ll be extra quiet![/b]” “[b]Don’t be ridiculous, Victoria Ann,[/b]” Eva replied, “[b]Just because you can get past Fonty doesn’t mean you’re suddenly an Anovan spy.[/b]” Gadget shook his head, “[b]No, she can’t. But I can.[/b]” There was a moment of silence as the group came to fully understand what the boy was saying. If Gadget could truly control his newfound abilities, then he might be the only one capable of saving Leonhart and Catherine. Macey’s eyes began to well up. “[b]It’s too dangerous,[/b]” she pleaded, “[b]What will your parents do if they find you?[/b]” “[b]They won’t. You have to trust me.[/b]” Gustave nodded, “[b]Please be careful. We’ll be waiting for all of you at the entrance to the tunnels.[/b]” “[b]Thank you Gustave,[/b] Gadget replied, “[b]Make sure everyone makes it out safely, will you?[/b]” "[b]You have my word.[/b]" Macey reached into Lucy’s saddlebag and withdrew one of the small compasses. She held onto Gadget’s wrist softly as she handed him the device. “[b]Please, before you go. Hold onto this,[/b]” she said firmly, “[b]In case you lose your way...[/b]” The boy smiled as he embraced her tightly, “[b]Thank you Macey.[/b]” Gadget bid a final farewell to his friends, and quickly disappeared into the darkness of the tunnels.[/size][/indent]

[quote name='James'][font=franklin gothic medium](Will the game end AFTER the air battle?)[/font][/QUOTE][size=1]The day will end after the battle, although we will be doing a 'final day' for each of the players to give their characters a proper send off with a final post. I have a strange request Sandy. I'd like to have one of The Starks survive, I don't really care which one. King Primas has some difficult decisions to make about the future of his government, and having an Underdog leader to negotiate with would be extremely beneficial. Perhaps The Stark in question (probably Blair, since Donner absolutely has to die) can escape during the confusion, only to be apprehended in the tunnels. I'm going to be gone for most of tonight, but I'll reply to your PM as soon as I can Sandy. We haven't had a chance to discuss the sequel in much detail, so there are some things we need to hammer out first. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]Okay, the cannon is activated so the air battle can begin. Great posts everyone! The tunnel group needs to figure out how to handle meeting up with Victoria/The Underdogs/Catherine. Try to use this thread to sort that out so that nobody gets confused. -Shy[/size]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/fauntleroy-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/gustave-avatar.gif[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/marieevangeline-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/gadgetgerrault2avatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/maceyellen-chronicle.jpg[/img][/center][size=1][indent]This was the first time Fonty had been underground in years. Beatriste loved to explore the grounds of Rosengard as a child, and to her the tunnels must have seemed like an enormous playground. On more than one occasion she had drug Fonty along for her adventures; it seemed ironic to him that years later he was underground again, this time searching for his wayward niece. The group was huddled closely together as they searched the dark, damp tunnels, led by Lucy and Gustave’s small kerosene lantern. They had been traveling for well over an hour already, with little sign of Victoria Ann. In fact, it seemed as if Lucy had lost her scent entirely. “[b]Lucy isn’t responding to the scent anymore.[/b]” Gustave said worriedly, “[b]I wonder if we’ve made a wrong turn somewhere.[/b]” Fonty sighed, “[b]Victoria Ann’s scent must be getting lost in here as well. Does anyone else smell sulfur?[/b]” “[b]Sulfur is one of the key components of alchemy,[/b]” Eva replied, “[b]After the Gem Hunters raided Mount Grail centuries ago, it’s practically the only thing left.[/b]” "[b]Sulfur and troublesome little girls, yes.[/b]" "[b]And Underdogs.[/b]" Fonty grimaced, "[b]Oh. Yes. Thanks for the reminder.[/b]" “[b]Do you think she’s alright?[/b]” Gadget asked nervously, “[b]She must be terrified down here all by herself…[/b]” “[b]Victoria Ann is the bravest woman I’ve ever met,[/b]” Fonty replied, “[b]If anything we’re probably more frightened to be down here than she is...[/b]” “[b]And more lost,[/b]” Macey Ellen added, “[b]Remember that she’s the one with the maps.[/b]” Gustave nodded as the group reached a small opening in the pathway. Various piece of machinery lay abandoned on the ground, in a puddle. Gadget’s eyes widened as he stared at it. “[b]It looks like we‘re not the only ones here,[/b]” he said. “[b]How can you be so certain?[/b] Gustave asked. “[b]Look at this equipment. There’s not a trace of rust on the metal, and these tunnels are dripping wet.[/b]” Macey hopped off of Lucy and grabbed Gustave‘s lantern. There were several large gears on the ground, and other strange mechanical pieces. Macey instantly recognized some of the components as she looked over them, “[b]Gadget’s right. The Underdogs were here recently, and it looks like they are building something.[/b]” “[b]Do you think it‘s another bomb?[/b]” Fonty asked. “[b]I can’t know for certain, but it seems unlikely. Eva, what do you think?[/b]“ She dismounted Lazarus and inspected the pieces carefully, “[b]These are discarded parts of some kind of artillery.[/b]” “[b]Like a cannon, sister?[/b]” “[b]Perhaps, but I’ve never seen pieces like this. Whatever it is, it isn’t good.[/b]” Gadget listened carefully as the others spoke. He had wondered exactly why his parents were so quick to dismiss him, but everything was starting to make sense. The Starks had no intentions of coming out of this revolution alive. They were going to kill themselves, and destroy High Czenoble in the process.[/size][/indent]

[size=1]Just re-posting here to put up my Smash Bros. Brawl friend code! 5241-1590-2564 -Shy[/size]

[size=1]Purchased it yesterday, and played a decent amount afterwards. Excellent game. Even though I'm using the GameCube controller, the controls seem really off to me. But perhaps it's because I haven't played Smash Bros. in so long. Hm. I'm really looking forward to some multiplayer and online matches. Feel free to shoot me a PM if you want to play. Friend Code: 5241-1590-2564 -Shy[/size]

[size=1][b]Gavin:[/b] It's really up to you. I know we haven't left much for you to do at the moment, but the larger air battle should be taking place soon. I don't expect to spend a lot of posts with the characters in the tunnels, so things should be wrapping up shortly. I've had the worst writer's block, but I'll try very hard to get a post in today. My apologies to everyone. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]I think it seems forced to expect every character to be involved in the final showdown somehow. Yes, it would be great is Rach, Muse and/or Sunfall's characters had more direct involvement in that aspect of the story, but they've done an excellent job of creating stories for their own characters. Especially since a large portion of Alexander, Alecia's and Henry's stories are love stories, I don't see the need for their stories to end with them invading an Underdog base underground. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]Since so many players will be working together in certain scenes at this point I'd like to ask that [b]all players post their planned actions and interactions in this thread exclusively from now on. This goes for ALL players.[/b] You don't have to tell us in advance all of the details in your post, but for timing purposes it's important to know who is doing what (and with whom.) I'm going to be working on a post featuring Morphia/Bavaria/Primas and August. Primas will take the murder of his sister as quite a shock, and it will be up to the Deacons to take command of the kingdom in his stead. We'll see Bavaria as a strong and capable leader, and more importantly, as a strong and capable queen. Also, I'd like to explore Morphia/August more, although given his disability she could never love him. Call me old fashioned, but Henry/Morphia has always made the most sense to me. Let me know what you guys think. As for Fonty and the gang: I expect the group to go into the tunnels and try to find Victoria Ann. This will give them a chance to explore the underground city in some detail, although if Gadget wants to try and find his parents that's fine. Maybe they can get split up at some point? Ultimately I'd expect all of them to come across The Starks and The Giant at some point, probably while the massive air battle is going on overhead. -Shy[/size]

[quote name='Gavin'][SIZE="1"]Josh, I understand that Leonhart's children would have stock in Magitech, but wouldn't Catherine and Daedalus also have their own shares from their parents ? I know that Leonhart was running Magitech, but did that automatically equate to him owning all the shares in the company ? It doesn't make any difference to me or my characters, I'm just a little confused.[/SIZE][/QUOTE][size=1]As I had mentioned before, Catherine, Bavaria and Daedalus each have a stake in the company. Fonty is merely splitting up the shares inherited to Leonhart's children. I'll edit my post to make that clear. Apologies. -Shy [b]Edit:[/b] Okay. Fixed. I see now what I did wrong. [quote=Revised]Fonty wrapped his arm around his sister, [b]“Please Eva, that’s not important now. What we need to focus on is getting these papers ratified by the Business Justice.”[/b] Eva raised an eyebrow, [b]“Uh-huh. I don't see you forging Bavaria or Daedalus' signature to get their shares...”[/b] "[b]I may be forging documents, sister, but I'm not stupid enough to cross either of those two. Or Catherine."[/b][/quote][/size]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/primas-avatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/morphiaavatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/ladybavariaavatar.jpg[/img][/center] [size=1][indent]Morphia and Bavria sat in the gardens of the Mirror Palace, enjoying a small glass of wine as she met a revolving door of dignitaries and Dynast loyalists. The conversation was polite, if not a little awkward. Given the state of affairs in New Czenoble, everyone was thinking the same things, but afraid to mention them. "[b]You should go speak to Prince Juvenous, sister,[/b]" Bavaria said as she sipped her champagne, "[b]I hear he is very available.[/b]" "[b]Juvenous? [i]Please![/i][/b]" Morphia huffed, "[b]I hear this enough from father. I don't need you planning a royal wedding as well.[/b]" Bavaria's eyes drifted towards Primas, "[b]Father wishes the best for you is all. He has been putting the same pressure on me, even though I'm only recently widowed.[/b]" "[b]The difference is that Primas is quite fond if you. Juvenous seems to think that he can find true love at the bottom of a glass of wine.[/b]" Lady Bavaria let out a heavy sigh. "[b]Is something the matter, Bavaria?[/b]" "[b]No, no... I just feel it's too soon to even consider a marriage with the King. And also, it is an enormous responsibility.[/b]" "[b]But I think you'd make a good queen.[/b]" "[b]Perhaps so,[/b] Bavaria said, "[b]But the Crystalline Throne brings with it many things. Rarely is happiness one of them.[/b]" "[b]Is it that you don't care for him?[/b]" "[b]I care for my nation,[/b]" Bavaria replied softly, "[b]And for the good of my nation, I will do whatever my King asks of me.[/b]" Suddenly a scream came from the palace, and a young female servant ran out, her hands covered in blood. Several onlookers gasped in horror as King Primas immediately rushed to her side. “[b]Margaret, what is it?[/b]” “[b]Your majesty. It’s it…[/b]” she began to speak, but soon found her voice overwhelmed with tears. He placed his large hands on the girl‘s shoulders, “[b]Please, you must tell me...[/b] “[b]It’s Augustine, King Primas. The Dynast Princess has been murdered.[/b]” “[b]Augustine? My sister…[/b]” Primas collapsed onto his knees as the guests gathered around him, shocked. The crowd began to panic, voicing concerns about their safety. Agron Deacon remained silently confident, and immediately took command of the crowd. “[b]Silence everyone![/b]” he said boldly, “[b]Call for the Guard at once. We’ll need to close off the crime scene at once, your highness, so that we may find out who did this.[/b]” “[b]But Master Deacon, you don’t understand,[/b]” the young servant said as she motioned towards the palace, “[b]I know who committed the crime…[/b]” Agron turned towards the palace, and saw Prince August standing in shadows of the doorway, his hands trembling. [center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/fauntleroy-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/victoriaann-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/marieevangeline-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/gadgetgerrault2avatar.jpg[/img][/center] In the kitchen Victoria Ann excitedly explained her rescue operation to Gadget and Eva. “[b]…so if we get The Giant to help us we can save Auntie Catherine![/b]” “[b]You’ve got quite the imagination,[/b]” Eva said with a polite nod, “[b]But how are you going to find them?[/b]” “[b]Oh that’s easy![/b]” Victoria Ann said as she pulled out a map from his backpack, “[b]I got these from school, so now me and Lucy won’t get lost.[/b]” Gadget’s eyes lit up as he saw the maps stuffed into Victoria’s bag. He placed his hands on the maps, pulling them away suddenly Fauntleroy entered the room, his hands full of papers. “[b]Hello everyone![/b]” Fonty said cheerfully, “[b]I see that you found Gadget, after all.[/b]” “[b]Yes, it appears that finding an invisible man isn’t so difficult if you know where to look,[/b]” Eva replied, “[b]Where are you going with those papers?[/b]” “[b]Here, let me show everyone….[/b]” [center][IMG]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/stock-landmark2.jpg[/IMG] [size=4][font=garamond][b]Landmark 10[/b][/size][/font][/center] Victoria Ann looked at the paper curiously, “[b]What is it supposed to be?[/b]” Fonty laughed, “[b]It’s a stock certificate, Victoria Ann. There are only a handful of us who have a say in Magitech, even though there are thousands of people who work for it.[/b]” “[b]That doesn’t seem fair.[/b]” “[b]It isn’t, which is partially why this revolution started in the first place. If we give our shares to the workers of Magitech then they too would have a say in the future of the company.[/b]” "[b]Didn't you sell the company to Merdyne?[/b]" Gadget asked. "[b]Let's just say I had a change of heart because of you, Gadget. I want to make sure that Magitech never has the power to abuse its' workers, or anyone, ever again.[/b]" “[b]That‘s a very clever solution,[/b]” Eva said as she examined the certificates closely “[b]But however did you get my signature on this? I don‘t recall signing these…[/b]” Fonty wrapped his arm around his sister, “[b]Please Eva, that’s not important now. What we need to focus on is getting these papers ratified by the Business Justice.[/b]” Eva raised an eyebrow, “[b]Uh-huh. I don't see you forging Bavaria or Daedalus' signature to get their shares...[/b]” "[b]Come on, sister, I may be forging documents, but I'm not stupid enough to cross either of those two. Or Catherine.[/b]" “[b]The Justice's office? Is that across town?[/b]” Gadget asked. “[b]Yes it is. Why? Did you need a ride?[/b]” “[b]Actually, yes,[/b]” Eva said, “[b]We need to find Macey, and I suspect that she’ll be stopping by Gustave’s after …[/b]” “[b]Gustave’s! Oh boy, let’s go![/b]” Fonty sghed, "[b]I'm never going to win with you, am I?[/b]" Victoria Ann shook her head, "[b]Never. Ever.[/b]"[/size][/indent]

[size=1]My thinking is that while an Almagest may be required to activate the device, someone else can do the dirty work. As for Victoria/Eva/Fonty/Gadget, they'll probably be making a stop at Gustave's. They can meet up with Macey Ellen while they are there. I'll have some more detailed description of what I had in mind when we get to that point. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]I'll try to get a post up in the morning following Fonty/Victoria and also Morphia/August. I wasn't online that night to see Sandy fishing for ideas on how to murder Augustine, but if she's useless she's useless. I imagine as a corpse she'll be even less productive. Audrey with an eyepatch sounds hardcore. Great posts guys. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]Sandy, I have written Augustine almost exclusively up to this point, so I don't understand how her presence in the story had become a burden. And if it had, I was the only one writing Augustine. The way she died is fine, I just found it a little jarring to see her killed off so suddenly. If that was the intended effect, that's fine. It actually gives me some ideas for using some of the other characters, and exploring Morphia's story more. I'm going to kind of miss that witch. Please don't kill off anyone else I'm writing. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]I suppose it really doesn't matter, since the military weren't doing anything but sitting on the cannon anyway. Mideus was obviously a smart ruler in one regard, and he kept the cannon a secret from anyone but only the highest-ranking military officials. The sad truth is that if the Underdogs didn't get their hands on the weapon first, Primas would probably have tried to rebuild 'The Giant' himself. No doubt the few military leaders who have been aware of the cannon were salivating at the prospect of using it someday. And also, I suppose the idea of a high-ranking official spilling the secrets to The Starks ultimately makes more sense than 'People keep accidentally stumbling upon it.' -Shy[/size]

[quote name='James'][font=franklin gothic medium]Edit: I mention Doberman because my understanding is that Rottweiler is under Mt. Grail... where the big weapon is. My understanding is that Jack and Audrey are taken to Doberman (i.e. not where Catherine and Leonhart are). This can, of course, be easily changed if necessary, since nobody has yet posted about which camp they've gone to. Once I get that sequence established, it'll be easier to post. Haha [/font][/QUOTE][size=1]I believe you're right. Leonhart, Catherine and the other alchemists are being held in Camp Rottweiler, which is within Mount Grail. Camp Doberman will be the one being attacked. And yes, the air battle will largely involve the Underdogs and Czenovia's military air force. While there may be some Guard ships present, the majority of the Czenovian forces will be military. -Shy[/size]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/victoriaann-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/fauntleroy-chronicle.jpg[/img][/center] [size=1][indent]That morning in Rosengard had been extremely chaotic since the moment Fauntleroy woke up. Beatriste had hurriedly dismissed all of the servants, packed up some her valuables, and headed to the Summer estate with Harriet, Charles, Bertram and Pearl. With Macey attending the coronation, and Eva feverishly searching High Czenoble for Gadget, this left Fonty all alone for the first time in the enormous estate. He had been given strict instructions by Beatriste to take Victoria Ann to the estate as soon as school let out. This left him several hours to get some much needed rest, and decide upon the future of Magitech. Sitting on his desk was the latest issue of The Chronicle, complete with a set of scandalous stories about Meredyne Artemis’ arrest. This left the pending deal with Artemis Air Transports, and the future of Magitech, in shambles. Still, given the role that his family’s company had played in this revolution so far, it seemed imperative that something be changed. And soon. "[b]I only hope I'm making the right decision this time...[/b]" he said to himself as he carefully read and reread the new contract he had written. It was just around noon when Victoria Ann came bursting through the doors of Rosengard, tossing her schoolbag carelessly on the bare floor. “[b]Oh no! Where did everything go?[/b]” Victoria Ann exclaimed. She stared around the Grand Hall for a moment, taking in the sight of the virtually empty space, , “[b]Did the Underdogs kidnap our furniture, too?[/b]” Fauntleroy appeared from the hallway carrying a thick stack of papers, “[b]Victoria Ann? You’re not supposed to be out of CHAOS for a couple of hours.[/b]” “[b]They cancelled school today because of the coronation![/b]” she said excitedly, “[b]So now we have all day to go looking for the Giant and Auntie Catherine.[/b]” “[b]Catherine? No, do you mean she’s gone missing too…?[/b]” “[b]Well, that dorky Lector Moebius thinks she's at the coronation, but I know better. I took Lector‘s maps of the tunnels so we can go find her.[/b]” Victoria opened her bag to reveal several ancient maps rolled up within. Fonty let out a heavy sigh. “[b]You silly girl and your terrible ideas. Your mother almost ate me alive after what happened in New Czenoble. Do you have any idea how dangerous it is down there?[/b]” “[b]But it's totally different, I’m way more mature now. Plus, Harrison isn’t around to get us lost anymore.[/b]” “[b]I’m afraid you’ve gotten me in enough trouble for one lifetime, thank you. But when we see Alexander I’m sure he’d be willing to listen about your latest plan.[/b]” “[b]But Uncle Fonty--![/b]” Fonty grabbed his niece’s hand, and forcefully dragged her into the study. There was a large stack of paperwork piled in the corner of the empty room, with a small desk in another. It was obvious that he was working on something big. “[b]What’s all of these papers for?[/b]” “[b]I’ve spent the morning coming up with a plan for Magitech’s future. I need to take this to the Business Justice downtown, and ratified as soon as possible.[/b]” “[b]Ooh, is that on the way to Gustave’s? We can take Lucy with us to the tunnels![/b]” "[b]Enough, please![/b] Fonty raised his voice sternly, “[b]Just look at your maps until we’re ready to leave. We‘re going straight to the Business Justice, and then to your Mother![/b]” Victoria Ann nodded and sat down to look over the maps to herself; she knew better than to keep pestering a grown-up when they were angry. However, if Uncle Fonty thought that she would give up on her rescue operation so easily he was sorely mistaken...[/size][/indent]

[quote name='Aaryanna_Mom']Also, even though I didn't state it, I'm assuming that they are in Camp Rottweiler since that is where Leonhart was when Callisto Prometheo was killed.[/QUOTE][size=1]You're right. I was right the first time. Bah. Okay, Camp DOBERMAN is the above ground camp that will be raided by the Guard following coronation. Camp ROTTWEILER is the underground camp within Mount Grail, where Catherine, Leonhart and others are being held against their will. [b]James[/b]: Malkav and i had questions regarding the timing of the attack on Camp Doberman, and Audrey's involvement. I'll need to talk to you about that next time I catch you online. -Shy[/size]

[quote name='Gavin'][SIZE="1"]I'm a little confused about what's going on at the moment, obviously we've got the official coronation of the new Dynast King, but it that going to occur at the same time or earlier than the mass rebellion in New Czenoble ?[/SIZE][/QUOTE][size=1]The raid on the Royal Guard headquarters in High Czenoble will be taking place at the exact same time as the coronation ceremony. Many of the Guard will be dispatched to protect the Mirror Palace, so it's the most logical time to attack. There are obviously Guard outposts in other cities in Czenovia, but by attacking the one in High Czenoble they aim to wipe out any leadership and lines of communication. In most of Czenovia there are not Underdog attacks, so it's likely that back-up forces will be called in. Of course, those forces won't be able to reach High Czenoble with the Underdogs controlling New Czenoble, so it's pretty useless. I'm not aware of any mass rebellion in New Czenoble. I know that following the attack on the RPG headquarters there will be a retaliatory strike against [strike]Camp Doberman[/strike] [i]Camp Rottweiler[/i] (probably later in the 'afternoon.') I believe James and Malkav were going to write that up. The massive air battle over Mount Grail will be taking place during the late evening/early morning. Keep in mind that it is an overcast day in Czenovia. The weather is only going to get worse. -Shy [b]Edit:[/b] I keep calling it 'Camp Doberman' for some reason. The name of the camp is 'Rottweiler.'[/size]

[quote name='Sandy']As for my latest post, although I said Bavaria and Beatriste moved out of Rosengard to the countryside for security reasons, that doesn't mean they cannot visit High Czenoble. The countryside villa of the Almagests is of course situated on the opposite side of Mount Grail to New Czenoble.[/QUOTE][size=1]Okay. Bavaria and Morphia will be attending the coronation (along with Macey, probably,) but it makes sense for the remaining Almagests to go somewhere safe. I'll be having Fonty stay in Rosengard for now, so that he can run into Victoria Ann when she returns home to Rosengard. From there they can head to the summer home (although knowing Victoria Ann that's incredibly unlikely.) -Shy[/size]

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/henryavatar.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/damegrimalkinavatar.jpg[/img][/center] [size=1][indent]Henry woke up the next morning in Alexander and Alecia’s flat with a stinging headache. He had spent much of his evening burying himself in a glass of ale, attempting to distract himself from his current dilemma. Everything that Hugo Black had said to him rang true, but there was no way he could justify the cruel steps the Underdogs have taken to achieve their goals. Worst of all, Alexander appeared to be one of them! Henry would never have suspected him of wrongdoing, but judging by his brief appearance at last night’s gathering it was obvious now that the Underdogs were everywhere. “[b]Henry Grimalkin step out of bed right this instant![/b]” Anna opened the shutters by Henry’s bedside, flooding the room with sunlight. It was an overcast day, but bits of sunlight shone through the cloud cover and airships overhead. Henry squirmed as he rolled out of bed. “[b][I]Mother![/i][/b]” His mother was in her finest formal attire, “[b]The morning is wasting away while you lay in bed. Alexander and Alecia certainly didn’t invite us into their home for you to sleep all day![/b]” “[b]Please, just give me a few more minutes…[/b]” “[b]Nonsense. You have a very important day ahead of you![/b]” Henry’s face suddenly turned flush, “[b]What? What are you talking about?[/b]” “[b]Don’t be ridiculous. Today is the King’s coronation ceremony, and while you were out socializing last night you received a personal invitation last night from none other than the Princess herself![/b] Anna withdrew a small envelope, adorned with the Dynast’s personal seal, and handed it to Henry. His hands began to tremble as he read the invitation. “[b]Augustine…[/b]” Henry remembered his dinner with The Dynasts only days earlier. The Princess had been incredibly kind to him, but given the revelations of the night before her actions took on a whole new light. Was she really interested in him romantically, or was it just another move to manipulate him? Either way, it would be far too dangerous for he and his mother to be anywhere near The Dynasts. “[b]I’m sorry to do this, but we can't attend the coronation.[/b]” “[b]You can’t be serious![/b]” she exclaimed, “[b]For a Grimalkin to witness an event like this firsthand is the chance of a lifetime…[/b]” Henry‘s eyes widened, “[b]Time!? Oh hell, what time is it mother?[/b]” “[b]That’s what I’ve been trying to say, Henry. It‘s only an hour before the ceremony, and our carriage will be here any minute to take us to the palace.[/b]” Anna’s demeanor suddenly changed. She turned towards Henry’s suit, neatly pressed and laid out on a nearby dresser, “[b]Please don’t be so foolish. This is such a good opportunity for your future…[/b]” “[b]I can’t. It’s… it’s complicated.[/b]” “[b]Oh Henry, I know Lady Bavaria has been very cruel to both of us, but you can’t let her--![/b]” “[b]This isn’t about Bavaria, I swear![/b]” he replied, “[b]Just promise me you’ll stay inside today. I have something very important I need to do…[/b]” “[b]You’re a very headstrong you man, do you know that?[/b]” Henry embraced Anna tightly as traced her finger along the collar of his shirt. Her eyes began to water as she stared intently at the small pin that Catherine had given to her before the races. He stood up and hurriedly searched the room for his shoes. “[b]If there’s the slightest bit of trouble, hurry to Eshe Rehema as fast as you can! And I don’t want you answering the door for anyone, do you understand?[/b]" “[b]Fine, fine, Henry. But I still don‘t understand what this is about…[/b]” "[b]I can't explain now mother, but I have to warn someone in time...[/b]" "[b]Warn someone about what? What is it?[/b]" "[b]It's the Underdogs,[/b]" Henry said flatly, "[b]High Czenoble is under attack, and I'm afraid I might already be too late to stop it.[/b]"[/size][/indent]

[size=1]My that Hugo Black is a busy man! As we mentioned in previous posts, there [i]will[/i] be a coronation ceremony 'today' at around noon in the RPG. During this time the Underdogs will storm the headquarters of the Royal Guard in High Czenoble, effectively destroying them. Gaul Rosier is at the Mirror Palace, and will survive to fight another day. I will most likely not be posting the actual coronation ceremony, but just the raid. I imagine Rach and I will be working together on this. Beyond that, tension is building on all fronts. Jack's story in particular is one I'm interested in seeing more of moving forward. -Shy[/size]

[size=1]In other news, my breakfast is delicious! I'll try to do a better job of making sure everyone is on the same page. I had planned to PM Sandy/Mom about some stuff today, but apparently they beat me to it... ugh. Really, though, there have only been a handful of miscommunications and problems with the RPG so far. I'd like to keep things as positive as possible as we move forward towards the finale. As a general rule, if you are writing multiple characters in your post and aren't sure if everyone is on the same page, just ask. We have this thread for a reason. Apologies if I contributed to the recent problem in any way. I'm sure I'm responsible somehow. I'll speak to everyone today to straighten out the plot and make sure there aren't any future incidents. -Shy[/size] :rolleyes:

[center][img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/alexanderedward-chronicle.jpg[/img] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee132/Runaway511/almagest/henryavatar.jpg[/img][/center][size=1][indent]That evening Henry entered the Jockey’s Club to discover a lively crowd inside. He had attended several small gatherings at the popular meeting spot over the years, but never before had he seen so many people there at once. Many of the faces he recognized from the High Czenoble Downs, and as he looked across the masses he wondered what exactly the nature of this meeting was. [I]Had Hugo extended his offer to all of the other jockeys? What was he planning?[/I] Several friendly faces greeted Henry as he walked past, patting him on the back congratulating him on his success in the Chimaera Cup. He had raced with many of these jockeys for years, but this was the first occasion that any of them bothered to show him the slightest hint of affection. Henry immediately locked eyes with Hugo Black, sitting across the room at the bar counter. The jockey was wearing his finest riding gear, along with a very familiar wolf symbol stitched onto his jacket’s shoulders. Hugo immediately extended his hands to Henry warmly, revealing a smile beneath his five o’ clock shadow. “[b]Good evening, Mr. Grimalkin![/b]” Hugo said with a boyish enthusiasm, “[b]It’s a pleasant surprise to see you here…[/b]” “[b]I have to admit that my curiosity got the best of me,[/b]” Henry replied. “[b]Then I have your curiosity to thank,[/b]” Hugo said, “[b]I promise you that this will be worth your while.[/b]” It was at that moment that Henry noticed Alexander speaking with several strangers across the room. Henry’s eyes widened in amazement, “[b]What are all of these people doing here?[/b]” “[b]You’re likely to recognize many faces in the crowd, Henry,[/b]“ Hugo said as he motioned towards a barstool, “[b]Please have a seat. Everything will be explained in time…[/b]” He picked up a glass and began to chime on it with a knife, silencing the room. “[b]Hello everyone. I am very pleased to see so many of you here, and if nothing else that is a strong sign that there is still much unrest here, even in the comfort of High Czenoble. But given time that will change, as will the lives of all Czenovians.[/b]” Voices from the crowd suddenly burst into cheers. It was several moments before Hugo was able to speak over them again. Several glasses raised in the air. “[b]Death to Gaul Rosier![/b]” “[b]Tomorrow, my friends. At noon we will storm the headquarters of the Royal Police Guard, paving the way for a coup the likes of which Czenovia has never seen before…[/b]” “[b]Long live the Underdogs![/b]” “[b]Long live the Underdogs,[/b]” Hugo replied cheerfully, “[b]Now enjoy the final night of the Dynasty. Our new King will sleep soundly tonight, blissfully unaware of what will follow next! Cheers![/b]” Hugo returned to his seat with a smug grin. Henry turned to him, “[b]The Underdogs, Hugo? I thought you were loyal to The Dynasts..?[/b]” “[b]This revolution is far more complicated than you could possibly understand,[/b]” Hugo replied, “[b]There are forces on both sides of the Mirror Palace attempting to dismantle this monarchy…[/b]” “[b]None of this makes sense…[/b] Henry let out a heavy sigh, “[b]I can sympathize with your need for change, but not at the cost of innocent life.[/b]” “[b]There are no innocents in this war…[/b]“ Hugo said stubbornly. One of the fellow jockeys handed Hugo a small slip of paper, “[b]A message from the Princess, Hugo.[/b]” “[b]Thank you, thank you…[/b]” hee read it and quickly rose to his feet, “[b]Forgive me, Henry, but I must get going. There is an urgent manner that demands my attention.[/b]” “[b]Do whatever you'd like. I‘m not interested in joining your revolution..[/b]” Hugo grabbed onto Henry’s wrist tightly, “[b]I don‘t believe that for a moment, Henry. You‘ve spent your entire life as a second-class citizen to your own siblings. I‘ve seen it in your eyes for a very long time. You more than anyone crave the equality that only our revolution can provide…[/b]” “[b]You’re wrong, Black.[/b]” “[b]Is that so? Then why are you here at all?[/b]” Henry closed his eyes for a moment, searching for an argument, but by the time he had opened them Hugo Black had disappeared out the front door. Henry turned to the bartender and ordered a drink. It was going to be a long night.[/size][/indent]

[quote name='Gavin'][SIZE="1"]I imagine the whole Almagest clan will have to make some kind of appearance at the formal coronation, assuming what was there with Deacon was just the informal one. It'll be interesting to see how it affects the attempts to solve the clues.[/SIZE][/QUOTE][size=1]I'd argue that the country is experiencing so much turmoil right now that the King won't have the time (or the interest) to go through an elaborate coronation ceremony. Primas is very business-oriented, so aside from meeting with Daedalus and Bavaria I can't imagine he'd want to see anyone else. So aside from those two everyone can go about their business as usual. -Shy[/size]