The Golden Hall II (OOC Thread)

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

@Eléowyn,

Malachite Copperstick cries his pardon to young Beda, if he'd acted more resolutely he might have saved her much grief.

Ah, but:

"It is the tale, not he (*she) who tells it." - Stephen King

* My word added

[Calimir]

@Allacan ob Burzum Cal' and some of his lads are going to the Dragon Room to help @Wamba_the_Fool and the others. Hope they get there in time ;)

[Wamba_the_Fool]

<snip> When I say "stewing in my mind," I actually mean the story was insisting on being told. ... There are times when I feel less the author than the vessel through which the story presents itself. <snip>

I hear you; been there!

<snip> I do assure you though, that Beda will be fine.

Huzzah for the doughty daughter of Eorl! No wilting milksop, she!

Been looking forward to the Beda posts, sweostor min; you've done a fine job, your denials of being a writer to the contrary!

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

your denials of being a writer to the contrary!

@Eléowyn - Well do you know my opinion of your wordcraft, I echo @Wamba_the_Fool's sentiments, Sai

[Allacan ob Burzum]

@Eléowyn I am very glad my efforts have given you the opportunity the character was craving; I well know the push of a PC’s story, demanding to be told, and we are but tools to their voices.

Beda’s story has been a joy to share, although my poor aching heart goes out to her and I’m sure it will lament all the more as things further unfold. I suspect that she may be in fear of becoming Edoras’ little princess given how many PCs and players have engaged, especially if her mother is the only one to die and word gets around about the Orphan of the Edoras Fires, so I’m sure with a city to support her she will pull through ever the more resilient.

And thank you also for respecting the rules in the fire thread; I’ll be keeping my eyes open for where the story plays out (may we request a link or a poke when it starts, so we can read along?) and when the fires are done I will be leaving the thread open for general RP to allow people to unfurl their stories where they will; I may consider tweaking some of the rules at that point when I am effectively step down as an active GM. The dark tales do need to be told, for from them comes the greatest stories of remorse, retribution and rebirth

[Lailyn]

@Eléowyn - you are here, you are telling a story and you are writing. Therefore you are a writer. *hugs*

Completely unrelated, but -

So as far as I know, there's only a handful of us even aware of the incident: you, me, Thali, Lailyn, Jakiewyn and her daughter, the Cavalry recruit, Allacan, Pele--obviously, and now Arnyn. As well as the culprit.

Not that Taeth knows, but also Æric the carpenter because Lail blabbed. Word is spreading. Oops. But she just couldn't withhold that from someone with a child to protect in case they ran into a bread-knife-wielding marketplace ninja assassin!

[Taethowen]

@Lailorn LOL yes, I saw that, but IC Taeth has *no way* of knowing that so... it is what it is! Not sure how involved the Cavalry is necessarily going to be in this all anyway, since it's really Eldrith's own stuff that just kind of overlapped.

[Thalionwen Hunigfolm]

@Taethowen @Gwai @Shivased Will there be any kind of Cavalry investigation into the Edoras fires? Even one that's not played out, but that we all imply is happening/has happened? I need to know if I should have Thali warning her...less aboveboard Infirmary residents...that they'll have to lie low on the premises for a few days.

[Taethowen]

@Thalionwen Hunigfolm I would assume that there would be some sort of Cavalry investigation, but since we've pretty much established that the fires are immediately followed by Riddermarket stabbings, and then the Marshal promotions, and then almost immediately followed by the Lost & Found events... who knows when it will happen. This is a mess.

[Wamba_the_Fool]

@Taethowen @Gwai @Shivased Will there be any kind of Cavalry investigation into the Edoras fires? Even one that's not played out, but that we all imply is happening/has happened? I need to know if I should have Thali warning her...less aboveboard Infirmary residents...that they'll have to lie low on the premises for a few days.

Beda's Mam's dead. The arsonists deserve anything they get, and maybe more.

[Taethowen]

@Wamba_the_Fool the potential arsonists hiding out at Thali's infirmary are 100% confirmed not to be connected to the Inn fire which is the one that spread to the Residential district. Technically, IC-wise, Gwai and Taeth were with all of those suspects at the time the Inn fire would have started.

I honestly have no idea, IC or OOC, who set the Inn fire. That was all @Eldrith's decision as far as I'm aware.

[Eldrith]

The Horse and Rider Inn fire had been planned earlier as part of the Black Hand rp. It would have taken place earlier but I agreed to delay it a bit because having one fire.. and then another just a few weeks later might have been too much. In this case.. the Black Hand used the opportunity created by the other fire to set the one in the Inn and hopefully let others take the blame.

@Taethowen @Wamba_the_Fool : there's a whole back story about obtaining all the components for the device used etc.

[Taethowen]

In this case.. the Black Hand used the opportunity created by the other fire to set the one in the Inn and hopefully let others take the blame.

Thanks for clarifying! I thought it was part of the Black Hand arc, but wasn't 100% sure.

@Wamba_the_Fool if your character, IC, wants to hold grudges against the Mordor factions that were obviously present at the Summer Festival, then that's fine. Just be aware that they have pretty airtight alibis for the time of the Inn fire, and Rohir who are willing to stand up to that.

But OOC, please don't make assumptions about players. Ultimately, it was @Eléowyn's choice to kill off an NPC as a result of the fires. It would be not very cool to 'punish' an actual Plaza player for that choice, since they had no say in it.

[Eldrith]

While I hope no one blames me ooc, I am perfectly fine with the Black Hand carrying that blame eventually. They already stabbed Pele and there is other stuff to come... slooooowly. I am certain they will not escape their ultimate fate (and I am more than fine with that!)

[Eléowyn]

Oh my what a can of worms! Just to be clear—I, the player behind Beda, blame no one! As I said earlier, this is something that was in the works; this RPG just sped it along, with a better story line than I had ever hoped for!

Now, IC, that’s a different story. And I’m pretty sure that’s what Wamba meant.

[Taethowen]

Now, IC, that’s a different story. And I’m pretty sure that’s what Wamba meant.

I'm hoping so too, but we've had some other issues with some other... Rohan people having issues with the minion contingent being present in Rohan at all to RP, and it's so hard to read tone over the internet. So I just wanted to be sure. Sorry if I came down a little hard, @Wamba_the_Fool.

But IC-wise, just be aware you might raise the ire of the Second Marshal if you come after her new boyfriend with just rumors/assumptions.

[Dimcairien Luiniel]

I would like to point out that the fire in the Cavalry pub was started accidentally (IC-wise). Allacan and Zaram knocked over the “lantern”. Said fire was planned, but not deliberately set.

[Taethowen]

@Dimcairien Luiniel the new Marshals are very well aware of that.

[Winddancer]

Beda's Mam's dead. The arsonists deserve anything they get, and maybe more.

Not speaking for Wamba here, but pretty sure he meant what he said, which is that the arsonist deserves anything they get. Which is fair to say both IC and OOC as it resulted in a death. Unless Wamba mentioned minions elsewhere, I don't see anyone blaming the minions? I know my npc will be all over the stabbing and wanting to know that whoever is in charge of keeping the city safe is taking care of it.

[Taethowen]

@Winddancer it was in response to Thali's question directly about the minions sheltering at the infirmary, which is why I wanted to clarify things OOC. The stabbing hasn't happened yet at this point in the timeline (the night of the fires), so the Mordor contingent is the most obvious group to blame based on that context.

[Wamba_the_Fool]

Holy frak what is this, Discord? I had a post all done and 4 more popped up. I'm typing quickly.

Quickly: OOC I remain jovially cordial with everyone, as far as I know.

I could make comments on various aspects of previous posts, but it's dinnertime.

Cheers to Winddy for noticing the "arsonist" language.

Cheerfully yours, in haste, -WamBlaed

[Winddancer]

Surely blaming the minions is a natural reaction? :P They are afterall chaotic evildoers! :P Defending their "virtue" ICly could also make for good rp. I totally see it as natural that people would be adverse to having minions running around freely in their city. OOC, definitely not as everyone has a right to go anywhere. But if you RP a minion openly in a free country, then you should expect there to be reactions to that, ICly. Not OOCly.

@Wamba_the_Fool I know you dont hate the minions lol, back on OP you were the only ruler who welcomed being kidnapped by one to make an rpg for his rohirrim <3

[Taethowen]

@Wamba_the_Fool so sorry for the confusion! I noticed the 'arsonist' wording too, but in conjunction with Thali's post specifically asking about her minion friends sheltering at the infirmary, I just wanted to clarify.

[Dimcairien Luiniel]

I’m fine with the minions (or at least Zaram) getting blamed initially. She did set the tent fire along with Zor. The Rohirrim have a right to be suspicious. But their innocence (at least in regards to Inn fire and stabbing) will be proven.

[Lailyn]

This is a mess.

<--- the real reason I left Rohan. (100% kidding)

I think we can all agree its fair to leer at minions and expect justice in IC but OOC we are all friends here!

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

Bema! My head is throbbing. Actions have consequences, and many opportunities for folk to adapt and RP. Let the tale unfold, if it please ya'

[Thalionwen Hunigfolm]

I, uh, retract my question?????? Definitely did NOT think that particular query would illicit *this much discussion* lololol

[Allacan ob Burzum]

As GM and OOC co-ordinator of all these fires, in the interests of encouraging roleplay and further development of the plot I’ll just quickly weigh in.

It seems reasonable to investigate the fires; it doesn’t need to be only the cavalry and as soon as the last fire is out, the Firefighting thread will remain open as a loose, open RP where anyone can continue their fire related roleplay however they wish. If this is to include investigating the fires then that is fine. It’s perfectly understandable for the citizens of Edoras to rally around Beda and seek to bring the culprit responsible for starting the fire that led to her mother’s death to justice, especially when Rohan was an honour state and acts of vengeance were expected.

Regarding possible suspects for the three fires:-

- After-Party tent appeared to be arson (too many separate places lighting at once) but no-one saw who did it. There were lots of people at the party, and Allacan’s final performance and indeed her actions earlier that day would make her obviously appear to be ‘in on it’ but not acting alone. There was one orc spotted at the party, and a few others suspected to have connections to mordor, but one of those was our Mx Meduseld winner, so difficult to pin any blame on them without further evidence (suspicion and possible prejudice seems reasonable though)

- Aethelmund pub was an accident and witnessed by at least three cavalry officers. Given this is cavalry property and only cavalry people were injured (no deaths) then it is reasonable to assume they will deal with the investigation themselves and discourage outside involvement. Allacan may have been seen fleeing the scene though.

- Horse and Rider was arson, and even those inside the pub have no idea how it started. This is the fire that started last, and the one that caused the death. I have a feeling @Eldrith will be more than happy for people to try and discover the culprit or root through the wreckage for clues; she may even relish sharing how it was done. It’s up to Eldrith what clues may get found; no-one IC knows of the black hand or their involvement in the fire. No orcs or minion allies were spotted in the vicinity nearby.

- the stabbing in Riddermarket; again IC no-one yet knows who did this or of the black hand’s involvement. Allacan is searching for the culprit and has taken some of the evidence (including the weapon used), but after her actions the day before many might reasonably distrust her or wonder if she is in on it. No orcs or minion allies were in the vicinity at the time, unless you count Allacan.

I think it only fair that PCs become wary and distrustful after recent events, and passionate to catch those responsible for orphaning Beda and her siblings. I know the mischief makers initially had issues with being encouraged to leave IC before they had actually done anything wrong, which seemed a little preemptive and over-insightful, but it’s fair to say there that recent events justify characters being wary, and I suspect everyone involved is appreciative of the IC repercussions.

Play your character true to their character; if it’s what they would do then let’s see where that story goes. If some choose to become prejudice to outsiders or angry mobs targeting the wrong person then that might even be fun; as long as we keep it IC only but remain pleasant and cooperative OOC it should all be good.

And for the record, I am completely ok with people blaming Allacan and I intentionally set her up to be a scapegoat/suspect and would love to RP her being hunted or likewise, if people want to go vigilante. Enough people now will have put together her minion and Rohir appearances and realised she is one and the same, and her recent behaviour in public places (mainly her disparaging comments towards Eowyn and Rohan in the Mx Meduseld comp and her odd song heralding the flames at the climax of the after party) would certain make her public opinion exceedingly low. Personally I think Allacan is probably the most obvious suspect than an orc and some of the minion allies; especially if people start digging into her past, and that was intentional on my part.

Also, she suddenly disappeared after the Riddermarket incident! Guilty people run, so it must be her; pitchforks and torches at the ready folks

[Thalionwen Hunigfolm]

If @Allacan ob Burzum needs somewhere to hide out, I know a place

[Calimir]

There are lots of great stories going on in the fire fighting RPG. I think Beda's story is really great. I'm definitely going to read the Infirmary thread and will be looking out for news of what has happened to the girl's brothers and sisters. Well done @Eléowyn and all the others helping Beda out.

[Lailyn]

But Lailyn will be disappointed to hear these rumors, @Allacan ob Burzum!

[corlisswyn]

@Shivased, so I have no idea where I eventually ended up in my training as a wigend in the Cavalry. I have a vague feeling I completed it, but the last I could find I was still in training, though I also feel like I started training a couple of times. Any suggestion on where to step in? I've placed my character back in Edoras for the first time in years!

[Shivased]

@corlisswyn I'm honestly not sure where you were in training, if you had completed it or not. Same issue a couple others have had since I don't have any notes anymore about who was in training. I will check with the other Marshals, and let you know. It would be either re-entry to the Cavalry as a Sperewigend (lowest rank) or else a short refresher training, I think.

[corlisswyn]

@Shivased I know I never made it any higher than a sperewigend if I did complete :) I vaguely recall becoming a glowy lady elf during that time, so I don't think I would have gotten very far.

[Shivased]

@corlisswyn We've settled on having you do a quick, short re-training. Nothing big or super-involved. Just a few easy questions so the marshals know, IC, that your character is good to go. So if you do want to RP requesting to join the Cavalry in the Dragon Room, you're set!

[Éolath]

@Lirimaer Yep, that's still me :D

[Eléowyn]

@Amhran @Allacan ob Burzum and anyone following the story of Beda's missing siblings: Their eventual fate will not soon be discovered, because to be honest, it has not revealed itself to me yet. I thought early on that I knew what would happen but now the story has evolved and I think I guessed wrong. For the time being, I will say that anyone who wants to go in search is welcome to do so, and you are free to make discoveries of clues along the way, to conjecture as to what happened, or whatever suits your fancy. They were last seen heading toward the river, and Amhran has found a doll that belonged to one of the younger girls along the way. The only constriction would be that they not be actually found at this point.

@Calimir regarding the Riddermarket: My apologies to you for some confusion going on there. When Beda went to the Golden Hall, then was cavorting about the Riddermarket, I was not aware there would be the firefighting RPG. Unfortunately, I then missed the indications that the fire would have occurred the night before, so I jumped at the opportunity for Beda's story to play out in a way that seemed to fit in naturally with the fire story. I have tried (with some help from @Aodh Hammerhelm) to come up with a way to reconcile the time anomaly, but nothing felt true to the unfolding story. Thus I am wimping out and just ignoring the whole time thingy. In other words, Beda is operating on a different time than everyone else in that thread. Your today in the market is her yesterday.

[Lirimaer]

@Éolath Good to know!

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

@Calimir & @Eléowyn - ah, the old mysterious ways of Plaza timeframes, it took a lot longer, than I thought it would, for an anomaly to pop up.

Mal Copperstick's to blame, kennit? Recognising Cal' from the fire heroics, when things were looking tetchy at first meetings in Golde ge Erconstan.

All clear now! Dwarves, Sheemie and Cal will have to get a night's kip in before seeing Beda again

& @Eléowyn as for Beda & siblings; lay me a trail, I will follow...

[Allacan ob Burzum]

@Thalionwen Hunigfolm I *think* Allacan is avoiding the Infirmary because it needs to be a safe place for everyone else right now (both Rohir and minions), and she believes if she was there it might put that at risk, especially given she doesn't even feel safe around herself right now. I haven't fully plumbed the depths of her current mind-frame and will do so more when I have time to role-play it out, but I am confident Allacan will be focussing on being self-sufficient for a while and avoiding being a burden on anyone until she has figured out what is happening in her own head.

@Lailorn your PC is perhaps one of those who could draw her back from her dark-side, along with people like @Nia, simply because they represent goodness and a fresh perspective, but at the same time I don't think Allacan feels close enough to Lail to feel guilty about her being disappointed just yet. Hope that isn't offensive to your PC, Alla is just a bit sold-hearted and self-centered right now.

@corlisswyn Westu hal freond; yours is definitely a name I remember from Old Plaza days; I look forward to seeing you in and around Rohan and perhaps seeing you in the cavalry also.

@Eléowyn Timelines are always messy and the surprise Kingdom event was always going to catch someone off guard; for my part in that apologies, but I figure hand waving continuity discrepancies is something Rohan as a Kingdom have always been excellent at (our rulers being Eomer and Eowyn are a prime example of that!). I hope you don't regret taking the firefighting thread opportunity when it presented itself, and I personally am looking forward to when the threads start to all catch up with each other. I'm also happy to wait to see what happens; good stories are worth waiting for.

Speaking on which, the promised Montage thread is up (sits back with popcorn awaiting the chaos, determined not to open another thread for at least a month)

[Wamba_the_Fool]

<snip> (sits back with popcorn awaiting the chaos, determined not to open another thread for at least a month)

"Getcher bets in here, folks, getcher bets in! Will @Allacan ob Burzum actually manage to go a whole month without starting another thread? Putcher money where yer mouth is!"

[Allacan ob Burzum]

<snip> (sits back with popcorn awaiting the chaos, determined not to open another thread for at least a month)

"Getcher bets in here, folks, getcher bets in! Will @Allacan ob Burzum actually manage to go a whole month without starting another thread? Putcher money where yer mouth is!"

There was a little voice in my own head that scoffed at me for posting that, but I rather hoped declaring it publicly might help me self-enforce the ambitious notion. Only time will tell how foolish a fancy it was.

[Eldrith]

Hey everyone just in case people have been wondering about my absence these week to ten days (or at least much less posting) I am kind of dealing with symptoms: fatigue, fever, sore throat, swollen glands.. etc. This could be my bi annual respiratory infection, but considering the times we live in, Covid testing is in order. Due to immune compromised it would be not very good for me to get it, and I have been very, very careful (but not everyone else has been) so..hopefully tomorrow we have the test and then soon the results. Z pack starting tonight.

[Taethowen]

Oh no, @Eldrith! Feel better quickly. *sends many virtual, non-contaminating hugs*

[Eléowyn]

Good luck, @Eldrith . It’s easy to forget that all the usual illnesses are still out there and not everything is COVID. But it’s good to get tested. Let us know how you are doing.

[Allacan ob Burzum]

I hope you feel better soon @Eldrith and do keep looking after yourself and fret not about the plaza; I'm sure I am not the only one is happy to wait for you to be fighting fit again before you return to posting.

[Aodh Hammerhelm]

Look after yourself @Eldrith , as @Eléowyn says many other illnesses present the same symptoms as COVID. I'm sure you'll ace the test x

[Gwai]

Oh no, feel better @Eldrith! Hopefully not the Rona, but if it is, hopefully you have just a mild case!!

[Calimir]

@Eléowyn That is no trouble. The Beda time thing. We will just get on as if it is a day later (in our heads)

@Eldrith I hope you feel better soon. Get lots of rest!

[Nerwen Nuke-queen]

Hello.....