Graded [Ryke - On the Edge of Sootspire Village] - Autumn Leaves

[FebruaryGemini]

~ Lady Von Turginev ~
​

The woman and her horse had only just gotten to the ticket seller when the army leapt into action. It seemed the circus was being shut down. She sighed and turned her horse away. Of course, the proprietor was corrupt and greedy. They always were. People didn't join the circus unless they had no other option. So, this one must have done something exceedingly illegal to be prosecuted. Maybe he was connected with a certain cult.

The distance between herself and the commotion continued to grow as she thought. On the one hand, her source of information was quickly dissipating. It was nothing short of cowardice to leave empty-handed. On the other hand, she'd managed to avoid being 'appraised' so far, and she wasn't keen to start now. She was fairly certain that she possessed no titles of note, but her family had had quite the reputation, and she didn't know how much of that had bled onto her record. So, she wanted to avoid the nobles and the soldiers and the fighting, but she would like to speak with one of the performers or hired hands. Perhaps she'd be able to visit them in jail. Or wherever the officials were taking them.

 

[Irihi]

BloodSlayerBloodSlayer’s expression darkened as he dropped his pleasant facade. ”You’ll regret this, your ladyship.” The honorific becoming an epithet spat from his mouth. He made a mocking bow as he slowly backed away from her, moving to the center of the soldiers that ringed him, seeming to wring his hands together in consternation, but--in actuality doing something quite different. “Well, you won’t, but your subjects will.” Wasn’t that always the case with these tin-plated nobles, and their heavy-handed enforcers? ”I’d love to stay and enjoy your brand of so-called “justice”, but… well, actually I wouldn’t.” BloodSlayer raised his hands in mock-surrender. The amber Ring of [Teleportation B] on his left hand sparkled, and he vanished.
…
Reappearing a moment later in the interior of his office wagon. “Uppity so-and-so so-and-so.” Was a much kinder rough approximation of the curses he spoke about the Lady Caelia, none of which really bear repeating, as he shoveled his minor horde of coin and treasure into a satchel. More than all the Rykes in the wagon were owed to various debtors as well as his staff and showpersons, but--obviously--BloodSlayer cared as much for fairness as he did for justice.

The door to the wagon was locked and barred, the windows blinded. BloodSlayer was confident he could abscond with his treasure before soldiers managed to find him and break in. It would be a difficult trick to apprehend the menagerie owner before he teleported again--this time many miles away, using the full power of the magic ring’s five cores. The wagon shook and quivered with the large man’s efforts to rob his own payrolls, but no one without could easily tell what or whom was within
.
Circusgoers and (remaining) StaffWhile those close by, who had been paying attention to the exchange between noble and ringmaster--immediately threw themselves to the ground, begging for mercy, the powerful influence of The Baroness’ Word overwhelming, and Rentili’s reassurances somewhat calming them--those out of earshot, not paying attention, or otherwise distracted heard only vague shouting.
Much faster than the movement of the Baroness’ guards or the soldiers of the Zentox commander, rumors spread that the army on the outskirts of the circus was moving in with orders to kill. As these things do, the message was muddled by drink and fear of the volatile crowd. Some disbelieved the rumors, those who were sober, knew the grace of the Baroness well, and trusted in the central authority while living in this far-flung town, reassured those around them. “The Baroness is kind and just! She would never kill without reason!” They shouted.

Those shouts were as effective as farts in a hurricane, as a typhoon of fear swept through the mob. For a moment the near-riot was quelled, boisterous rowdiness being replaced by a much more dangerous emotion taking hold; terror.

A couple of intrepid staff, getting the gist of what was transpiring--each of them with a barely-concealed murderous criminal title--took the initiative to sew as much confusion as they could, thinking to abet their escape.

One of them grabbed a torch, tossing the flaming brand into the opening day fireworks cart. The other unchocked the wheels and gave the explosive-laden wagon a mighty shove, before lighting out in the opposite direction.

Another roustabout with several lesser criminal titles to his name, followed their lead in less-dramatic, but just-as-lethal fashion, as he set alight one of the larger circus tents containing dozens of caged animals, as well as a few performers.

“FIRE!! The shout rang out, and the crowd moved closer to breaking into pandemonium.

Mob Near Peat’s WagonNot one of the circus goers had come for this; fighting two obviously enraged warriors over some half-dead sideshow freak. The crowd that had been gathering around Peat’s wagon scattered at the first signs of violence--all save the four unfortunates attacked by Alister and Caesar.

Loose-limbed drunkenness saved the lives of those attacked by the wolfman, though both had the sense--and any fight--knocked out of them by the surprise attack.

Those Caesar attacked had the man’s nonlethal skill to thank for their lives, though both ended up unconscious, offering about as much contest to the fighter as a training dummy.

People running led to more people running, and there was a sudden crush at the tent exit. The press of bodies broke supports and guyropes. Fortunately the bigtop was a tough old tent and the carnies who had erected it had done their jobs well--even if some of them were criminals. The main support tilted drunkenly and the fabric began to rip, but the bigtop did not immediately collapse. It would be very clear, however, to anyone within, that they should make haste to get out, before the whole structure collapsed and trapped them under hundreds of square yards of heavy dry canvas.

Summary;
BloodSlayer:
Action 1: Insult the Baroness
Action 2: Teleport D to his private office/wagon.
Action 3: Loot the payroll.
Cooldowns:
Ring of Alternate Identity B: 1/4
Ring of Teleportation B: D: 0/2 C: 3/3(Ready) B: 4/4(Ready)
Ring of ??? B: 4/4(Ready)

Circus Goers and Staff
About two dozen people near Caelia immediately surrender to the Baroness and her forces. One of them is a BloodSlayer lackey with a thief title.

Around 200 people are on the edge of panicking due to rumors of an army massacre. Gunfire, explosions, or violence are likely to exacerbate the situation.

One of the large tents housing many animal exhibits (and the one-armed spider lady) is starting to burn. The fall rains have not yet started and everything--tents, fields, woods--is a tinderbox.

A wagonload of fireworks is rolling out-of-control and on-fire through the circus grounds. Fireworks will begin exploding next round if it is not extinguished.

The bigtop housing Peat (and other performers such as trapeze artists and the Bearded Lady) is in danger of collapse.

Some circus performers, staff, and patrons are trying to leave by sneaking into the fields and woods on the opposite side of the circus from the soldiers. Some are staying put.

 

[Elvario]

Regula Caelia

Spoiler: Full Image & Source

Alternate art generated and edited based on:
Granblue Fantasy Wiki

Languages: Common | {Sylvan} | %Analog% | +Mictantectulian+
Mentions: Irihi | Chershire DarkKitsune | Winrey Lolory

“Good!” She'd call back to Chershire, signalling that, for now, she'd decided to take his word for it. The situation was too chaotic to confirm for real, but he'd be far too foolish to try anything right now. Oddly enough, Winrey's words made the story a tad more shady. Yet the fact she recognised him helped. She'd nod as him as well. “Sure.” She'd go with their explanation as well, for now, though it seemed a tad odd.

Considering it looked like BloodSlayer was about to resist, she was ready to move in and deal with him herself... Yet he teleported before she could. She sighed. “Take care of things here, please. If you do have to use lethal force, try to keep the body intact. ” She'd add, as in a worst case, she could resurrect any unjustified casualties later. “See if you can work with them as well.” She'd stated, relaying her decision not to outright mistrust Chershire and Winrey.

Her own men would focus on any commotion causing staff first. Using [Slash] F: Deflect F + Penetrating F - (Grade F, 0 Post Cooldown), they'd try to quell the instigators first and foremost.

She clicked her tongue, however, as she saw things were getting out of hand faster. Fires? Folk at risk of burning to death. Crowds getting anxious. “POCKET DIMENSION INBOUND!” She'd call to all that could hear her. Her men and likely Retili and his men as well might have a clue what was going to happen. Alister as well, assuming he'd picked up on some of the Baroness' previous escapades.

First, she would use [Tremor-sense B] on her Boots of Swiftness B to find all sources of movement in the circus terrain around her. Whether it was in tents, in cages, outside... it didn't matter.

Then, she would head for the centre of the circus grounds to use [Take It All] to [Selectively] scoop up all sources of movement be they friend, foe, ally, performer, animal... Entire structures or wagons if that was needed.

Take It All – Magic B, Magic Area of Effect C, Energised B, Pocket Dimension B, Selective B – Character Pockets everything in a wide (500 ft) radius around them into their Pocket Dimension. - Grade Be – 3 Post Cooldown.

Having forced everything that moved even slightly into the Pocket Dimension, she quickly would [Fly C] over to an empty plot of plains, where she would let everyone out again on the grounds. She didn't want to leave them in the pocket dimension for any longer than necessary, especially not as she had no clue what animals or monsters might've ended up in there. The sudden completely darkness of being pocketed, then suddenly being released elsewhere, was hopefully more than enough to avoid a fight breaking out and to get some sense into even the most drunk and instigative of them.

Flying above them, she'd use the little time she had whilst they were too shocked to start screaming or doing anything else to call out. Although this time, she did have her gun drawn. “I SHALL REPEAT MYSELF ONLY ONCE!!! SURRENDER PEACEFULLY!” She warned them at the top of her lungs [Baroness' Word B].

Baroness' Word B – Character Grade B, Appraisal B, [Baroness of Caelia] title, Culture B, Etiquette B, Insight B, Leadership B, Persuasion B, Religion B, Energised B – Using her position as a baroness and her social prowess, Regula studies, convinces, inspires or otherwise engages in social conversation. - Grade Be – 3 Post Cooldown.

She would look around. If there were any non-sentient animals or monsters that were on the offensive against people, she would use her Hextech Gun to get rid of them. Should she spot BloodSlayer, he would be included with those aggressive/attacking non-sentient animals or monsters.

Hextech Gunfire C – Magic C, Energised C, Magic Range D, Undetected [Hearing F], Magic Range D, Penetrating F, Magic Targets C, Homing D, Accurate F – Character fires their Hextech Gun; 1000ft away – 304 metres , without sound, 25 targets, ignoring 1 grade of item defence, homing 3 times, treating speed 1 grade lower. - Grade C Energised – 2 Post Cooldown.

 

[Irihi]

Circus Goers and StaffFor those who hadn’t already fled beyond the reach of Regula’s magic, the pocket dimension was likely the most disorienting and terrifying thing most had ever experienced. Only a few people had the presence of mind and mental resistance to maintain wits enough to understand and follow orders. Perhaps 50 people flattened themselves upon the ground, hands on heads in abject surrender.

The fireworks wagon, being a source of movement, was also teleported. Skyrockets, mortars, and roman candles began exploding in and around the crowd. The fireworks were not lethal, but they did cause a few first-degree burns and spread smoke, flames, and further confusion amidst the crowd.

The dry grass caught fire wherever a firework landed, but--fortunately it was a calm day so the fires spread slowly.

As orders and gunfire rained down from on high while screeching and booming fireworks exploded among them, every single soul, without the mental fortitude to surrender, engaged in their own individual panicked fear response. Some prayed, some screamed, some ran (perhaps praying and screaming). One or two were so panicked that they ran through flames and could not even maintain a presence of mind enough to extinguish themselves.

BloodSlayerThe ringmaster was prepared for many contingencies, but not for this. He tried and failed to hold himself together. While surrounded by his lackeys and with his magic ornaments on his fingers, BloodSlayer could maintain a front of boastful showmanship, but--at his core--the man was a coward. That cowardice was laid bare as he appeared--with all the others--in the burning blasting confusion of the empty field. Falling upon his back in a shower of gold coins, he raised raised his be-ringed hand as if it would be some barrier to the Baroness’ gunfire that blasted him into a rather thin sheen of strawberry jam.

Summary;
BloodSlayer:
Action 1: Panic
Action 2: Die.
Action 3: Carpet the cheerfully-burning ground with gore.

Circus Goers and Staff

~50 people surrender and retain presence of mind to follow directions.

~150 people panic: 2 running while on fire, 70 running in random directions, a few falling, turning ankles or breaking legs/arms/wrists. The rest cower in abject fear and are unresponsive to instructions. 1 person suffers a heart-attack and goes into cardiac arrest.

Those who are conscious retain enough sense to avoid the fires. The grass is fairly short. There’s a lot of smoke and clothing might get a little scorched, but people are able to step over the fires and find places to cower in the ash.

Animals/Monsters
All engage in similar fear responses except for one deaf “unicorn”--that looks suspiciously like a mule--which begins calmly grazing on the dry grass, moving away from any fires as necessary.

Spoiler: Narrator’s Note

You may determine your own OC’s disposition with regards to Regula’s actions. If you have a plausible way to avoid being “taken” feel free to stay put.
Here’s a notional map of what the circus looked like before the people were abducted.



Assume similar positioning of people, just without the tents and wagons.

Also there’s a lot of fires and none of the menagerie’s inadequate fire fighting equipment was transported.

 

[Irihi]

Peat the Sylvari
​

Peat leaned on Cheshire as the man broke her last shackle and helped her from her cage. This was the first time Peat had been outside of the wagon of wood and steel in weeks, though she was hardly cognizant of what was happening.

There was fighting and running and screaming. A feminine voice was booming from outside the tent and Cheshire was shouting back.

Then everything went dark. It was only a few seconds, but it seemed like an eternity, even to Peat. *Am I being rescued? Am I dead?* she wondered. *Is this what death feels like?* She found she only had one worry; one regret. *I hope I am buried head-down, so Olive will have a chance.*

Then they were outside in the cool autumn evening. They were outside, but it seemed worse than inside. Fire was everywhere, and explosions and gunfire. A she-demon was flying above them, shooting people and creatures seemingly at random.

Having already resolved to die today, Peat was less perturbed than most. She figured now was as good a time as any for a hit of fertilizer. Still leaning on Cheshire (if he had also been transported) she dug in the pockets of her rags for some phosphates. She snorted a bump and then smeared another on her bleeding gums.
Unlike her nitrates, which induced fugue, the phosphates sharpened her senses while blocking pain, emotions, and inhibitions. Whether by accident or intention, she put together a fairly coherent sentence. “What fresh hell this is?” She asked.

There was a lot of screaming and running. One of the running demons collapsed in front of them. Patting Cheshire to show that she could now stand on her own, she detached herself from the healer and leaned over the dying man and [appraised E] him. There were clots in his heart--like the ones Peat had thrown into the brains of her captors long ago. One of the clots had broken loose and plugged an artery. “So fragile.” Tsked Peat absently. She placed a hand over the man’s chest and dissolved the clots. At least she thought she did. She dissolved something inside him, at any rate. “Woop…” Peat giggled as she tipped over on her side. Phosphates made her very loopy.

Summary;
Peat is freed by Cheshire.
Peat is pocketed.
Peat is dropped in a field.
Peat gets high as balls and performs open-heart surgery.

[/i]

 

[FebruaryGemini]

~ Lady Von Turginev ~
​

Apparently, the lady had made the right decision. She had put enough distance between herself and the circus that she wasn't caught up in the magic spell, but suddenly the whole conglomeration was much closer and to her left. There was no way to know where they'd gone in the interim, but it couldn't have been anywhere pleasant. They came out screaming and on fire. There was also a series of colorful explosions and an angel of death firing on them from above. It truly was time to leave. She swung herself into the saddle, pointed her horse north, away from that little glimpse of hell, and kicked her into a gallop.

 

[Elvario]

Regula Caelia

Spoiler: Full Image & Source

Alternate art generated and edited based on:
Granblue Fantasy Wiki

Languages: Common | {Sylvan} | %Analog% | +Mictantectulian+
Mentions: Irihi

Things hadn't gone exactly as planned. She'd gotten everyone away from the village, which meant that at least the village itself wouldn't get caught up in this mess. It seemed like she'd accidentally brought along a fireworks cart, which she figured she'd return into the Pocket Dimension so it'd not hurt more folk. That was a great start at trying to calm things down.

Take It All – Magic B, Magic Area of Effect C, Energised B, Pocket Dimension B, Selective B – Character Pockets everything in a wide (500 ft) radius around them into their Pocket Dimension. - Grade Be – 3 Post Cooldown.

Sadly enough, even at her current situation, she hadn't gotten a chance in to calm most people. At least BloodSlayer wasn't going to pull any more tricks. The fact that he was dead also helped calm the anger that had flared up.

Landing onto the ground, she'd use the [Safe Zone B] on her cloak to heal her own Guards, Retili's men and if needed, Retili, Chershire, Winrey (and parents), the two unfortunate souls that ran through the fire, as well as the one that seemed to go into cardiac arrest. She also recalled having been told about the Dryad having been injured, so she figured she'd [select] Peat as well in the healing effect.

Safe Zone B – Magic B, Healing B, Energised B, Area of Effect D, Selective Magic D, Control Environment E, Magic Duration E - Character creates a safe zone; healing significant injuries and resurrecting the recently diseased, 500ft -152m radius around them, lifting bad environmental conditions, ignoring undesired targets, lasting 1 day - Grade B Energised – 3 Post Cooldown.

Her own soldiers would also move to try contain the fire. At this point, it seemed like trying to capture all of them was too much to ask. Then again, it had been since the moment BloodSlayer's men successfully instigated the crowd and some of his men were clever enough to start up a panic.

She sighed. This wasn't going to look the best on her record. She wondered how other nobles would've handled it. Likely a more subtle manner. Yet reprimanding herself could be done later. She figured she'd go around, using her Appraisal ability again.

(Appraisal B, Magic B, Area of Effect C, Selective Magic C, Energised C for the mass-appraisal bits. Business E, Culture B, Etiquette B, Focus B, Insight B, Leadership B, Religion B to see if she could notice anything additional with the secondary skills in her appraisal.)

Anyone with what she deemed serious crimes (Murder F, Abuser C or higher, Vandal B or higher) that got in her way could get their legs broken with a Simple Strike.

Simple Strike – Fighting Style [Valkyrie] Polearm F, Range F, Penetrating F, Energised F – Character uses their polearm in a simpler, less exhausting strike. - Grade Fe – 0 Post Cooldown

Anyone that didn't have any criminal titles would be included in the Selective Healing effect of her cloak and a “My humble apologies.” From the baroness.

Anyone that had lesser criminal titles, she'd just let run. They'd be getting off lucky.

 

[NachoGod]

Caesar “Surpann” Romano

Languages: Common, (Beastial)
Mentions: Megilagor Elvario

Caesar would continue his menacing grin as the crowd began to disperse from around the wood woman’s cart and would turn to begin speaking to the other fighter about to compliment his skill. “You seem to be a ra-“ he started but was cut off by the sudden sensation of weightlessness and the flood of darkness that filled the space around him. He was shocked, and frankly a bit terrified. He couldn’t tell what was going on, perhaps he had been knocked out? Perhaps he had been killed by a sudden unseen enemy. Yet after less than a minute he would find himself falling a short distance and landing on his feet. They were suddenly in a field and the well dressed woman he had seen at the entrance now floated above him declaring her command for all to surrender peacefully. Flames littered the field, The sounds of screams and explosions filled the air. With little else he could do Caesar would do the only sensible act.

Taking a knee caesar would remove his mask and surrender, awaiting whatever coming judgement he may face. He knew that he may have crossed the line when fighting the drunken mob, but nonetheless he knew is was the right thing to do at the time. Though afraid that he may find himself at the wrong end of one of those guns he would still remain kneeling on one knee with his eyes scanning the field and one of his hands hanging loosely at his side, the other resting on his knee. The sight of the flames certainly made him uncomfortable, almost making his skin crawl given his previous experience with it. Nonetheless he would wait.

When the Well dressed woman landed she seemed to let out a pulse of healing which seemed to engulf most people, a select few not being among them, himself included not that he had any damage to heal. He would watch as the Baronness walked the field apologizing and incapacitating people one by one. Eventually she would near him and he would grin up at her. “Well, you certainly know how to clean up a mess…or would this be counted as making one? Hard to tell no?” He would say to her seemingly not the slightest bit concerned, though inwardly he would be quite afraid. Worried that he might have offended the woman who clearly was far more powerful than himself in more ways than just her status. “For what its worth i think you did the right thing…perhaps a bit more heavy handed than necessary but still…this ‘Show’ needed to end.” he would add having only seen a small portion of the injustice here himself, still it was enough.

Summary: Caesar goes to compliment Alister but is cut off by the pocket dimension consuming him.

Upon release he removes his mask and Kneels in surrender awaiting his judgement, he speaks to Regula when she gets to him.​

 

[conman2163]

Retili Loxinofican
Character Sheet​

Retili cursed violently as the man disappeared. A pike had just been thrust into the air where the man's leg had been by one of Retili's honor guard. The intention had been to subdue the man and make certain he couldn't flee. The magic ring made that impossible. Retili turned to the officer in charge of the five man squad. Fury clouded an usually controlled face. "Find that man now. He is top-" The order was cut off abruptly as the camp around them changed rapidly.

Chaos. Mayhem. Destruction and pandamonium. The gruff order of the camp descended quickly into mayhem and chaos as the call to surrender was put out. An order was shouted and all of a sudden the Zentail troops were affixing bayonets, preparing for a melee to break out. Grim faced and battle-hardened troopers who had survived the battle at the border that saw the sun cult removed prepared to do bloody work. They wouldn't let the enemies of the baroness go unpunished. The Retili who had first come to the employ of the baroness shortly after the battle of Yemaya might have fallen to the ground in fear at the sight of the flames and chaos as the camp turned dangerous. The Zentox who was here now instead marched his way through the crowd to his men, his honor guard taking the lead and shoving people back to clear a path, and taking the orders of the baroness with him. However before he could start issuing orders to his troops Regula shouted the warning about the pocket dimension. Retili knew she had such an ability but had not experienced it himself.

He found it disorienting to appear in the dark, but his people were well accustomed to dark spaces and took the moment to wait until their eyes adjusted and their eyes collectively glowed in the light cast off by the burning wagon. When they arrived back in the real world Retili immediately began snapping off orders to his troops. "First squad, put out those damned fires. If you can get those people away from the wagons." Twenty five zentail troops broke away to get people herded away from fires and would try to shovel dirt onto the active flames. "The rest of you capture those damned staff and gather them somewhere outside the fire. We'll sort out anyone who isn't a criminal afterwards. Use any means necessary. Honor guard you'll watch over any captives. Find a good spot a decent distance from the fire. If any try to flee try and capture them, but keep your focus on the group as a whole. Any who brings a captive will join you in guarding them." As his men moved to sort through the chaos Retili would repeat his appeal to the crowd, this time using a bit more of his charismatic edge. [Charismatic Scribe C, 3 post cooldown] "Citizens of Sootspire and the Caelia Barony, leave the area immediately, I swear you will not be harmed. Those who would harm you are being captured as we speak but you must leave quickly and in good order. For the staff of the carnival, surrender yourself to the nearest soldier and you will be given a fair trial and be unharmed. Failure to do so will mean your death. You cannot flee the judgement of the Baroness. Throw yourself upon her mercy." If someone surrendered to one of Retili's soldiers they would be taken to an area outside the fire and gathered under watch by the soldier who transported them and the five pikemen.

Spoiler: abilities

[/COLOR]

• Caelia Savant C - Law C, Warfare D, Business E, Academia F, Area Knowledge [Caelia Barony] F - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - Retili uses his comprehensive knowledge built up through years of study to overcome issues that smooth talking might not otherwise be capable of.
• Charismatic Scribe C - Insight C, Perception C, Empathy C, Persuasion C - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - Using his quick wit and fast mind, Retili talks his way around and through problems that he encounters. - 3 post cooldown.
• Noble Bearing C - Etiquette E, Law C, Academia F, Persuasion C, Empathy C, Perception D, Insight C, Business E - Grade D, 2 post Cooldown - After some time spent in study, on the road, and in the court of nobles Retili has learned the way and bearing required to be at least adequate in the many skills expected of nobility. - Used, 2 post cooldown.

 

[Irihi]

Lost Little Boy
”AHH!!”

The Lady Turginev’s horse would stop and rear, whinnying. Only because it was a well-trained steed--and had not been giving the command to strike--kept it from lashing out at the boy who darted out of the weeds in front of Turginev.

”Don’t kill me!!” The little boy cried in fright, sure he was about to be struck down, just like some of the other patrons at the scary circus. He covered his eyes and wailed in terror.

It had been a horrible night. At first he’d been so excited to go to the circus with mother--he’d never seen anything like the huge colorful tents, roaring beasts, and flashy shows. His initial excitement had not lasted long after giving their money to the ticket man. “Are all circuses like this, mommy?” He’d asked after they’d fled the tent of tired and abused costumed animals. The little boy wanted to see mystical creatures, but not like this. They seemed so sad, and the other people here were older and meaner than he (and his parent) had expected. There were almost no other children and the patrons seemed angry at the poor creatures, not filled with wonder or delight.

He’d been glad when his mother decided they’d do better just to leave. “It’s okay, mommy, I don’t like it here, either.” He could tell she was trying to put on a brave face--like she often did when things didn’t turn out right. The little boy knew the money they had spent on the tickets had been dear. He knew meals would be small for a while and they probably would probably have to make their own holiday treasures this year. That was okay, he just wanted to be out of this scary place and see the worry on his mother’s face go away. He’d squeezed her hand and tried to smile through the disquiet.

It hadn’t gone away, though, it had deepend, even as they’d left the menagerie. Something was happening amidst the tents behind them. There were shouts and screams. “Hurry, honey.” His mother had urged him, blocking the sight of whatever was happening back there. “Don’t look back, just keep going!”

Very frightened now, the little boy had done as he was told and hurried on until, suddenly, the commotion had stopped, and a deathly silence had fallen. “Mom…?” Only then had he had looked back, when he heard no response.

His mother was gone. Everyone was gone. With a groaning crash, the distant bigtop had collapsed while flames licked at one of the smaller tents. “...mommy…?”

Just outside the range of the Baroness’s magic the boy had been left alone, his mother caught up in the pocket dimension with hundreds of other circus-goers.

Suddenly there were more--and much worse--screams, crying, explosions and gunfire. The little boy had hid in the weeds then, covering his ears and closing his eyes--and just about getting himself trampled, until he felt the tremor of approaching hoofbeats and had fled the cover of the weeds like a frightened rabbit.

Summary;
A little boy was separated from his mother by the Baroness’ magic.
He was nearly trampled by Lady Von Turginev’s steed.
They are both quite some distance away from where the abducted people were deposited.
There’s a bit of chaos still amongst the abducted people, but the woman disregarding the magic, shootings, and shouted orders--who is casting about, screaming her child’s name--will be fairly obvious.

FebruaryGemini

 

[FebruaryGemini]

~ Lady Von Turginev ~​

Once her horse had all four hooves on the ground again, she looked down at this small child with bewildered disdain. Had his parents not taught him not to run in front of a galloping horse? Not only did it put all three of them in danger, but it impeded her egress. "Boy! I will not kill you. You were at circus, yes?" If she was very lucky, he would be the son of one of the circus hands, and they would agree to exchange information for his return. There was room for two on the horse. She might not leave empty-handed yet.

 

[Megilagor]

Alister Marrok
Point booster: Attentive Student
Languages: Common | ^Ancient Hermese^
Mention: Elvario , Irihi , FebruaryGemini

"Lady Caelia, I'll run around try and search for stranglers from the troupe or civi's in trouble." Alister reports to Lady Caelia, with a slight bow before running off in one direction till he hears a boy cry out, almost begging someone to not kill him. So he went in that direction. He knew Lady Caelia's magic was strong and with a wide range, but even then someone could have been outside of its range, and it being a little child separated from his parents was a concern.

As he run up the hill he saw a lady on a horse and the little boy he assumed was the one crying earlier. "Stand down. And leave the boy alone! If you have no ill will nor any connections to this circus I shall escort you to Lady Caelia, where most of the people here were transported to by her magic to keep them safe. But if you decide to run, if you try to take the boy, or fight back I will use what is necessary to put you in front of my lord for you to be judged." Alister spoke clearly, calmly, and loudly, though he wished he didn't need to do as such, he did not know if the lady on the horse was an ally or a foe in this situation. What he knew though was that child probably lost their parent in all this chaos and needed to be brought to them.

 

[FebruaryGemini]

~ Lady Von Turginev ~​

She scoffed and rolled her eyes at this wolf pretending to be a man. "I am not going to harm boy. If anything, he poses danger to me; running out of weeds like booby-trap. I have no 'ill will' as you say, and I am not connected to circus. I am simply passing by. I see no reason why I should be judged for that." It would probably be wise for her to speak with less condescension. She wouldn't fare well in a fight, and causing a scene would draw even more unwanted attention. But her offence at being so addressed won out. Her heart rate increased. If she couldn't salvage this, she saw herself being judged in the very near future. And that would severely impede her progress.

 

[DarkKitsune]

CHESHIRE CHARMEL
INTERACTIONS: Irihi Lolory Elvario

Spoiler: Equipped titles

[Human],[Witch], [Mundane Human], [Apprentice Medic]

—
After leaving the tent and managing to get Peat free he tried to keep her close to him, coughing a lot as the flames released plumes of smoke. He grabbed a hold of Peat as tightly as he could although his strength was only average due to his specialties with magic he never trained his body.

“Peat…stay with me…let’s go find…that baroness…”

He told her hoping she wouldn’t resist though he doubted it she seemed loopy. Then Cheshire’s mind went back to the rabbit boy…

“Bunny! Where are you!? If you are alive we should try to make it out and introduce ourselves. And…try to..find that baroness…”

Why hadn’t they introduced themselves? Oh yeah…they were too busy with their mission to rescue a slave that they forgot, oh well at least the chances were ever slim that Bloodslayer was alive. For now, Cheshire was focused on 1. getting away from the fire with Peat in tow and hopefully the bunny. 2. Find the baronness. He felt the smoke getting to him more than the best did.
—
Language Keys:
“Common” {Slyvan}
—​

 

[Irihi]

Traumatized Crowd
Gradually, the soldiers would manage to restore a semblance of order amongst the traumatized circus-goers. Everyone with serious injuries from panic and fire happened to either still be within range of Regula’s magic, or was brought into the healing circle by Retili’s troops.

No one was in much of a forgiving mood--they were either too frightened or too angry. However, neither was anyone willing to speak up against the suffering lady Caelia had inflicted upon them--especially as she walked among them, breaking legs, seemingly at random, with her polearm.

None of the citizenry knew just why the Lady Caelia had killed BloodSlayer or was meting out punishment, so everyone endeavored to stay out of her way.

Most of the visitors eventually started to disperse, as ordered by Rentili. This posed a new problem, however, as most of the carnies and circus workers wore clothing similar to the garb of the locals.


Menagerie Staff
Performers like the Bearded Lady, The Legless Spiderwoman, Clowns, Trapeze Artists and the like were in costume, and obvious enough. Though most had no criminal titles, they tied up quite a few of the Baroness’ troops, surrendering to them and being detained.

Looking back at the abandoned burning circus--where the fire was rapidly spreading to more tents and wagons, Charlotte (The Bearded Lady) cursed (quietly). ”Goddammit, there goes all my stuff.” Her reaction was a mild one compared to many of the performers, whose entire livelihoods were literally going up in smoke. While most were frightened for their lives enough to keep quiet, or keep their grumbling under their breath, a few were in hysterics; begging the soldiers to go put out the fires or at least let them go try to save essential or sentimental items, or money.

Meanwhile, the worst offenders from the circus staff--besides BloodSayer--were mostly attempting to sneak away. The carnies and roustabouts wore nondescript clothing and there was little way to tell the difference between them and the citizenry. BloodSlayer had known most of their faces, but, as he was now a rather thin BloodLayer cooling upon the grass, he wouldn’t be much help in identifying them. His deputies might know most of them, but they, themselves, were trying to sneak away amidst the outflowing citizenry.

The locals were too terrified to voluntarily point out strangers in their midst, and only the few Lady Caelia personally scanned (and then injured) were getting caught. With their legs broken, these criminals needed several soldiers apiece to retrieve and be brought into the cordon of soldiers that were holding other staff and performers.

None of those with abuser titles were eager to have their tibias shattered--or their brains spattered--by the Baroness, so the death threats issued by Rentili were ineffective at getting more than one or two--and only those with minor thief F or abuser F titles--to voluntarily give themselves up.

A couple of carnies were limping or cradling injuries that the selective healing had not repaired. This might have given them away but some citizens had also been beyond the influence of the healing magic, and had similar injuries.

On a positive note: thanks to the magic of the Baroness and the efforts of her troops, the grassy field was no longer on fire.

Lost Boy and His Mother
The lost little boy’s mother had enough wits about her to spot and follow Megilagor as he headed away from the group and toward a woman on horseback and one of the very few children in attendance. Recognizing her son, she ran past the wolfman and caught her child up in her arms, huddling over him protectively.

The violence that had been done made her too afraid to say or do anything that might bring the beastman’s or mounted woman’s wrath down upon her and her son, so she said nothing and just cowered, using her body as a shield for him, while the two argued over her and her child.

Peat the Sylvari

​

Peat was high as a kite and feeling good about being away from any of the wood--that she viewed as the bodies and bones of her people. She found--in her present state of mind--she didn’t mind being held by Cheshire--after he had tipped her back upright. After all, he had freed her from her shackles, and it seemed like a whole lot of other stuff had suddenly changed.

She wasn’t wholly aware that--with her master dead--she was completely out of bondage, but--drugged as she was--there was quite a bit that Peat wasn’t aware of, and she didn’t really care about the rest.

”Okay, sez Peat.” She replied, cheerily, to Cheshire’s insistence that they should find whatever a Baroness was.

This close, Cheshire would notice Peat’s smell; it wasn’t terribly strong or unpleasant--just an earthy smell--like that of dead leaves, old wood, or dirt. If he wanted to go somewhere, he would need to coax her to her feet, but--once upright--she’d hobble gamely along wherever he wished to go.

Summary;

• The fires in the field are extinguished.
• The circus is now burning out-of-control.
• Carnival performers gather as directed. Most have no criminal titles. A few beg the soldiers to let them go save their possessions from the fire.
• Menagerie workers with criminal titles are sneaking off hidden in the departing crowd. One or two follow the direction to surrender.
• The lost boy’s mother finds him.
• Peat follows Cheshire’s lead.

 

[conman2163]

Retili Loxinofican
Character Sheet
​

His troops remained impassive as people begged them to let them go and save something from the wagons. Retili watched with an impassive look as his troops managed to help put out the fires. He ran over to the commanding sergeant of the squad and grabbed him by the arm, pointing at the wagons on fire some ways away. "If that fire spreads into sootspire it'll be trouble. Get your men and go put that out." With the twenty five troops dispatched he made his way over to the circle where he grabbed another sergeant. "Take half the troops here and go help put out that fire. We'll hold things here." He said as he put away his dagger. That would leave roughly half his men here and the other half going to help put out the flames. He wasn't sure what Regula was planning, but he knew that if he let camp keep burning then the village would be in danger. He didn't have any choice but to make the best of the situation and go put out the fire. Large numbers of criminals would be escaping into the countryside but he had no choice. That done he sought out Regula. He could see the perception that the crowd would have of the Baroness as he saw her break a leg of a man. No doubt a criminal, but those around her didn't know that. Retili would pick up some speed [Fast F] and rush over to Regula, stopping and grabbing her by the wrist. "Regula." He said purposefully using her first name. It was something he had not done before. "People of the carnival are losing their possessions to flames and the status of those in the carnival as criminals is not known to the villagers, you look like you are just taking your frustrations out on random members of the populace. We need to put the fire out before it catches onto Sootspire. We can spend time hunting down the criminals after." He said and then let go of her wrist. "Please my lady, you have to take charge and salvage this situation." He asked imploringly.

Spoiler: abilities

[/COLOR]

• Caelia Savant C - Law C, Warfare D, Business E, Academia F, Area Knowledge [Caelia Barony] F - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - Retili uses his comprehensive knowledge built up through years of study to overcome issues that smooth talking might not otherwise be capable of.
• Charismatic Scribe C - Insight C, Perception C, Empathy C, Persuasion C - Grade C, 3 post Cooldown - Using his quick wit and fast mind, Retili talks his way around and through problems that he encounters. - 2 post cooldown.
• Noble Bearing C - Etiquette E, Law C, Academia F, Persuasion C, Empathy C, Perception D, Insight C, Business E - Grade D, 2 post Cooldown - After some time spent in study, on the road, and in the court of nobles Retili has learned the way and bearing required to be at least adequate in the many skills expected of nobility. - Used, 1 post cooldown.

 

[Elvario]

Regula Caelia

Spoiler: Full Image & Source

Alternate art generated and edited based on:
Granblue Fantasy Wiki

Languages: Common | {Sylvan} | %Analog% | +Mictantectulian+
Mentions: Irihi | Caesar NachoGod | Alister Megilagor | Retili conman2163

Caesar's comments were like a piercing arrow through the wings. “Things did not go exactly according to plan.” She [Prideful], but not enough to admit to her mistakes. “Thanks, though.” It was kind-off odd, to hear a total stranger say you did the right thing just as you really started doubting yourself due to the outcome being far worse than you could ever predict. “It seems this BloodSlayer had prepared to stir up far more trouble than I anticipated and that a force of power was not enough to quell it.” That's pretty much what her biggest miscalculation had been. She'd hoped their numbers would be enough to make the enemies surrender. Next time, she'd not underestimate chaos, confusion, booze and enemies making clever use of such. “If you wish to try help clean this 'mess' I'll personally help see to it you get rewarded.” At this point, anyone that seemed to still be thinking clearly and that seemed willing to help was a highly worthy ally. Even if they might have (minor) criminal titles or not. “For what it's worth, I do apologise for throwing you and the other innocents into the Pocket Dimension.” She'd add. That was about all the time she could spent, however, as she had more work to do.

She listened to Retili, whom she was glad more than ever to have as an ally. He seemed to be doing even better during this stress that than she was doing. Upon Alister addressing her, she'd nod. “Please do... and I apologise.” Someone coming in her employ and being caught up in this mess so short after? She felt truly bad for him. Perhaps she'd have to pay him a hefty sum and accept him wishing to leave soon, but she hoped he'd at least be loyal enough to help out whilst this mess lasted.

Seeing how 'sorry' didn't cut it, which was expected, yet an effort was still made, she was forming a plan to use [Wealth B] to reimburse all those without titles that got caught up in this. Part of her didn't like them for enjoying such 'entertainment', yet she knew that they weren't criminals and didn't deserve this much. That said, it was BloodSlayer whom had set the stage for fire to break out, people to get drunk and panic to spread. She might've made it worse... yet, well, now she should at least see how to fix as much as she could.

Overhearing some of the performers, she figured that would be a good start. “Calm down. The circus is beyond saving, but I will either help you find a new, more honest job, or get you the funds needed to restart anew in a better manner.” She'd state with conviction and in an attempt to make them at least slightly more relieved/agreeable. (Baroness' Charm B – Character Grade B, Appraisal B, [Baroness of Caelia] title, Persuasion B, Seduction B, Energised B – Using her position as a baroness and her social prowess, Regula attempts to charm someone into being more agreeable. - Grade Be – 3 Post Cooldown.)

Should she spot anyone that seemed to have particularly nasty titles, she'd point it out. “Keep an extra good eye on this one. We'll use them for interrogation to find the ones that escape today. I'll personally put a bounty on the heads of any that were close to BloodSlayer. The Adventurer's Guild will have a lot of new work lined up soon.” She'd state to her guards and Retili, who approached at that point.

Listening to his words, she'd nod. “You're right. Thank you.” She'd say fist of all. Like before, she'd not let her pride get in the way of solid advise. A plan had formed. “I'll Pocket Dimension the circus after confirming nobody is left. The lack of oxygen there should make the fires go out eventually. Whatever doesn't burn can be returned, whatever does burn will be refunded.” That was her immediate plan, though she did wish to discuss the follow-up.

“Once that's done, we'll put a bounty on the heads of those that escaped through the Adventurer's Guild. We'll also promise to reimburse damages through my personal funds and heal the injuries obtained by all non-criminals that got caught up in this, during which we'll explain what happened and why it did happen. For now, it looks like just calming people down will be more important than continuing to catch criminals... though we've got a good few to interrogate later. They should be willing to give up the other's names and possibly hideouts.” Having shared her plan, she'd flap he wings, ready to fly off to go take in the tents. However, there was one more thing. “Please take care of things here whilst I deal with the tents... and, well, thanks. Again. I'm sorry I wasn't able to handle this better.”

She didn't wish to wait for a reply, feeling oddly embarrassed, so she flew off immediately after to go to the tents. She'd use a combination of the Tremor-sense B on her boots, her earlier appraisal ability and her cloak's ability to negate dangerous areas to check each on every tent, cart and other circus location, looking through them as well as she could before she'd put it in her Pocket Dimension. If there were any people or bodies in there that had somehow gone unnoticed before, she'd save them from the fires by going into them and using her cloak, it's warding effect and its healing to be able to pull through any injuries. She wasn't afraid to get in harm's way or get hurt in order to try clean up this mess more. She'd start with whatever seemed the most at risk of spreading the fire towards Sootspire, working her way backwards until she'd hopefully have Pocketed the entire circus.

----------------------------------​

Once the worst of it all had died down, she would set to work. It was going to be a long day and likely some night work, as well as a rough next day, but she wanted this all dealt with as well as she possibly could.

First order of business was to write Count Sadek about these events. She'd write a truthful report, though she would be stressing how vile BloodSlayer had set-up his people and the crowd against her, how much she regretted falling for it and how she intended to pay up for that mistake. She'd also use what knowledge she had (Culture B, Etiquette B, Focus B, Insight B, Leadership B, Persuasion B, Religion B) to write it as polite as possible and to try to really make it shine through that she'd truly done the best in a horrible situation. With that written, she'd get a messenger to deliver it with urgency.

Next, she'd ensure that the body of BloodSlayer was stored well. Should Count Sadek wish to judge the man himself, she could still revive him and sent him to the count, so long as BloodSlayer's body was preserved well enough. She'd also ensure his belongings were confiscated and added to the fund with which to pay out anyone that got disadvantaged by these happenings.

After that, she'd instruct her guards to bring the accomplices they captured to the Adventurer's Guild, along with a decent sum of money (Wealth B) and a quest. She'd request for the Adventurer's Guild to interrogate them and would offer a decent reward to anyone whom could use those findings to hunt down and capture any of the other senior criminals that BloodSlayer had been working with and that had escaped these events.

Then, she'd arrange for a meeting with the mayor. She'd explain the situation and use her social skills yet again in an attempt to get aid in sorting out what was to happen next. At the very least, the mayor being of Fae ancestry and this BloodSlayer having had Fae 'attractions' should make it easier for her to feel the same disgust Regula had felt.

After that, the next order was to show the people of Sootspire that she was no merciless monster that'd randomly started harming folk. Luring them in with the promise of compensation, she'd first explain what had happened, about BloodSlayers crimes and his attempt to sow panic and chaos through booze, bribery and pyromania. Her speech would be passionate, yet firm.

Baroness' Word B – Character Grade B, Appraisal B, [Baroness of Caelia] title, Culture B, Etiquette B, Insight B, Leadership B, Persuasion B, Religion B, Energised B – Using her position as a baroness and her social prowess, Regula studies, convinces, inspires or otherwise engages in social conversation. - Grade Be – 3 Post Cooldown.

In the end, she did condemn those who 'enjoyed' such 'festivities' yet would allow anyone without criminal titles to come claim compensation. She'd heal those whom had gotten injured in the panic and offer some money (Wealth B) for the trouble they'd gone through. Those with minor titles that the mayor could confirm were Sootspire natives (theft, abuser, vandal F) would not receive compensation, though she would write them a letter of recommendation for absolution of said titles based on the events being enough to compensate they harm they had done onto others.

Those with more serious titles, should they be foolish show themselves, would be held for further questioning. She'd await Count Sadek's advise on what to do with them.

Finally, the circus itself was an issue. She would ensure those that had been (semi-)involuntary part of it would be taken care of with clothing, food, shelter and healing. That said, she believed it would be bad for the circus to continue as it was, so she would ask them if she could aid them in starting up a new, better and fairer venture. She'd even offer to find people that could grow back limbs, recover addictions, or whatever else they might need to become function members of society again. She'd also include those that had been present prior, asking them if they knew ways in which to help out.

Naturally, she'd attempt to rely on the aid of Retili and Alister, her advisor and one of her latest servants. She'd admit her tactlessness in her inability to spot the danger the crowd had formed and on how much she'd overestimated how much a show of power would subdue them. In turn, she'd ask for them to help prevent her from straying like that again. Prideful as she was, she knew when something humiliated her and this was definitely one such things. She felt like it was yet another thing she'd be beating herself up over for a long time to come, along with what had occurred against the East Empire spymaster and mage Doriel. Those close to her would probably notice she'd been struggling with the awful feeling of miserable failure all the way through, as she kept attempting to do whatever she could to rectify the harm done to those that hadn't deserved it.

Finally, the newcomers to her barony (read PC characters involved), would each get a personal apology and a note of thanks for any aid and understanding they'd offered. As well as an invitation to visit her at her keep in Stonewall, or perhaps even more of a request, so that she might show that these events were not reflective of anything her barony was or stood for.

 

[Irihi]

Patrons and Some Circus Staff
The townspeople departed with more than one former circus staff slinking off amongst their number. Most of these faded into the woods and fields, worried that the mailed fist of the Baroness’ justice would fall next upon Sootspire, itself. A few continued on into town to take their chances there, since none had much money or equipment on them.

The patrons from Sootspire were distressed and upset with the heavy-handed response that came with the Baroness’ arrival, and tavern talk over the following days would revolve around a simmering anger of how the self-righteous noble had ruined their fun and killed the circus ringmaster in cold blood.

However, in the coming days, some of the carnies that had made their way to town helped--in their way--to sway public opinion. BloodSlayer’s associates were mostly ne’er-do-wells and reverted to their abusive thieving ways, scourging Sootspire until the locals decided to take matters into their own hands. A spike in crime was attributed to the circus, and the townsfolk--while not necessarily happy with Regula--began to better grasp the reasons behind her violent purge of the menagerie.

Those circus staff who fled into the surrounding wilderness joined with local bandits, left the region, or perished, depending on their survival skills and dispositions.

Circus Sideshow Acts
The Baroness’ promises and influence relieved some of the immediate distress of the performers watching their livelihoods go up in smoke. Rightly or wrongly, they believed the word of a noblewoman meant that they would not be immediately thrust into destitution. A few were even hopeful that this sudden and disturbing change in their fortunes might actually turn out for the better. Peat was not the only person living in bondage or debt to BloodSlayer, and his death came as a relief to many, while the rest were not unduly perturbed.

The man had run his menagerie in as tight-fisted a manner as he could. He had stolen profits and reneged on promises often enough that few--other than his lackeys and immediate friends--were sad to see him dead.

The circus, itself, was not completely destroyed--though it would have been without Regula’s efforts. The big top was a loss--partially burned, ripped, with its big support masts shattered. One of the other two larger tents and a few wagons had been lost to the flames. That left one large performance tent and most of the living quarters and personal effects of the performers.

The soldiers were able to extinguish the burning field, now that it was emptied of circus paraphernalia, and eventually the somewhat-charred trailers and tent barracks were returned to the smoking circus grounds.

Without the direction of the master of the menagerie, most of the remaining performers--who had the means--struck out on their own--taking their personal trailers, effects, and talents on the road to larger cities where they might find work.

Bloody Bohemia A few of the more destitute and physically disabled sideshow “freaks” banded together and claimed the one remaining circus tent and a few immobile living trailers and empty cages as their own, patching and maintaining their living quarters and performance grounds with spare parts and the meager earnings they could make providing an entertainment space for the region.

The Baroness’ soldiers and financial support provided a foundation for a new, friendlier, circus.

The encampment is hastily built and poorly maintained. While none of the performers or denizens feel any particular loyalty to their dead ringmaster, the name “Bloody Bohemia” is becoming the name of the growing collection of tents and wagons more-or-less by default, and it may come to encapsulate the nature of the circus.

Perhaps a savvy businessman or visionary artist might transform Bloody Bohemia into a wholesome or upscale entertainment venue, though it seems just as likely a criminal element or unscrupulous individual may return it to the kind of blighted shantytown freakshow it has been as BloodSlayer’s Menagerie.

Peat the Sylvari

​

Peat was free of the least cruel of her captors. With BloodSlayer dead, she was no longer a slave. BloodSlayer had never trusted any of his lieutenants or lackeys enough to have his property revert to them upon his death, so Peat was a free woman for the first time in four years.

Though she was out of captivity, she was still bound by her addictions and oppressed by her illness, injuries, and psychosis. Charlotte, the Bearded Lady was the closest thing to a friend Peat had, and the performer had no intention of taking care of the Sylvari. In fact, Charlotte left as soon as she could recover and hitch her draft animal to her trailer.

Peat would follow Cheshire--as he was the only demon with whom she had made any sort of connection--but she would not insist on remaining with him if he was unwilling to assume the burden of a destitute, drug-addicted, fae ex-slave. Without Cheshire’s aid, Peat would likely become just another bit of flotsam washed up with the other castaways in the Bloody Bohemia, spending her days scrounging for coin enough to buy the drugs she needed.

Summary;

• The fires in the field are extinguished.
• Circus-goers disperse back to their homes.
• There are some grumbling and tavern rants about the heavy-handed Baroness, but most people are mollified by the restitution they receive.
• Most of the criminals in BloodSlayer’s Menagerie escape, though many perish in the wilderness or are caught in the following weeks.
• The wealthier and more talented circus performers leave to find other employment.
• Poorer and disabled performers are stuck outside Sootspire. They take advantage of the Baroness’ largess to set up a smaller circus.
• Peat the Sylvari is freed, accomplishing the objective of the RP. She still requires rehabilitation in order to survive.

Spoiler: Conclusion and Narrator’s Notes:

This is my second RP, and I am still not familiar with RP grading or the Narrator’s role in such. As with my first RP, I’ll give a short summary of my impressions of each OC:

Cheshire
The first and most-consistent OC in this RP seemed surprised by the dark and gritty nature of the adventure he found himself in. Still, the character found a way to stay true to form and maintain control of violent emotions seeing a Fae abused engendered in him. He navigated a number of obstacles and took advantage of a radical shift in the nature of the RP to achieve his goal of freeing Peat. While I have no doubt Cheshire will continue to work for the good of his patient, I have the feeling he may have bit off more than he can chew.

Winrey
Coming in with his parents, this young OC entertained himself by causing trouble for troublemakers and trying to help out an animal being tormented. His actions saw some animal abusers get their just deserts and I was sorry that we couldn’t involve him further in some intrigue of freeing the captive Sylvari by less kinetic means. Winrey (and his writer) were good sports in dealing with my rather risque suggestivity revolving around The Bearded Lady’s “Private Show.”

Regula
This powerful OC joined the RP and the gravity of her presence altered the orbit of everyone involved, as one would expect. While she was initially restrained, eventually seeing the misery that the common people experience--and sometimes have to just accept or look the other way--caused her to lose her cool and apply extreme force in dealing with a criminal element embedded amidst the common people.

While the Baroness’ actions changed the nature of the RP, I enjoyed thinking about how common criminals would leverage collateral damage to wage asymmetrical warfare to give them a chance to escape against overwhelming force. It is worth noting that I intended to start a riot, and BloodSlayer riled up the crowd as an insurance policy prior to any of the Baroness’ actions. There was no good outcome available where the criminals were arrested and everyone lived happily ever after. I don’t write that kind of fantasy.

The player (Elvario) asked prior to joining, and asked before using Regula’s higher-tier powers. It was instructive to see how a high-level character can change an RP, and I might reconsider an “open door” policy for future RP’s--though probably not. This was just as fun to narrate, I only regret that the lower-level OC’s ended up a bit sidelined.

Rentili
The soldier and his troops supporting Regula were caught between their duty to enact the Baroness’ decrees and to minimize the collateral damage of chasing criminals intent on inciting a riot. He used his minions and his influence with the Baroness to minimize the damage and trauma experienced by those who did not have criminal titles.

Caesar
Caesar showed up in time to get in one lick defending the beleaguered NPC and head off a mob that was likely to cause damage and injury. He was then whisked away by the Baroness’ incredible powers and reacted appropriately. Perhaps in a future RP he can turn Bloody Bohemia around and use it to kickstart his own wrestling foundation.

Alister
This beastman arrived in time to join forces with Caesar and stop a mob from attacking Peat the Sylvari. He also reacted as one would expect when sent through a pocket dimension and then dumped in a field. He tried to lend assistance and also moved to include Lady Turginev in the RP.

Lady Von Turginev
The noblewoman arrived late to the party when mass appraisals and shock troops were causing chaos in the circus, so she wisely hung back. Alister and I tried to give her an onramp to the RP, but we were wrapping up and the pacing of posting prevented her from taking much of a role.

Spoiler: Narrator Grading Sheet

1. **Narrators Involved**
- List the narrators who participated in the roleplay.
IRIHI

2. **Narrator Standing**
- Provide the standing of each narrator involved, including links to their standing sheets for reference.
IRIHI: Character - Characters

3. **Summary of the Roleplay**
- Briefly summarize the events and main storyline of the roleplay.

Summary of Events and Actions:

A traveling menagerie of “fantastic monsters”, freaks, and sideshow stopped for the last shows of the season in the fields outside Sootspire. The shine was certainly off the rose in this tarnished carnival. Many of the fantastic creatures were fakes, some of the performers were enslaved or indentured by questionable contracts held by criminals, and the circus itself was run in a money-grubbing and shoestring manner. Even so, it provided some entertainment to the hardworking miners of Sootspire and nearby hamlets.

Among the monsters in the menagerie was a dying Fae Sylvari. The master of the circus; the grandly-titled but dastardly BloodSlayer hired a healer to try to pump a few more seasons out of the drug-addicted and diseased woman, but the healer had other plans. He took pity on the Sylvari and resolved to free her.

As the carnival got underway there were some hijinks, such as a beastman child invigorating one of the tortured “monsters” so that it clawed its tormentors. These minor disturbances paled in comparison to the arrival of the Baroness of the region.

The arrival of nobility and an entourage of soldiers sent the Circus Master--and his criminal lackeys--into a panic. He secretly plotted to incite a riot and, when the Baroness uncovered his criminal titles, he caused the carnival to erupt in pandemonium.

The Baroness attempted to use her troops and high-level powers to apprehend the criminals, but--as they were embedded with the common citizenry, who’s only crime were questionable taste and drunken rowdiness--her heavy-handed focus on punitive enforcement caused considerable upset and allowed for considerable collateral damage to occur.

Eventually the ringmaster was slain and some of his lackeys apprehended. A number of criminals escaped into the nearby environs.

The Baroness and her forces remained in the area to make amends, ensure that those who suffered damages were made whole, and to salvage what could be salvaged of the partially-burned circus. A future RP (by a different narrator) is planned to provide jobs and restore dignity to the sideshow freaks previously preyed upon by BloodSlayer.

The death of BloodSlayer freed the enslaved Sylvari from her servitude, but she remains heavily addicted to fertilizer and beset by numerous physical and psychological maladies.

4. **Goal Achievement**
- Indicate whether the goal of the roleplay was accomplished. Note that this affects grading, as failed roleplays typically receive lesser rewards.
Partially; Peat the Sylvari was freed, but her future remains uncertain. The action in the latter half of the RP precluded any steps toward healing her, and--without further RP--her life will likely continue its downward spiral.
The Circus of questionable legality was terminated, and the blight on the Barony was ended. This was not initially a goal, but it could be considered a positive outcome.

5. **Criminal Acts Perpetrated**
- List any criminal acts committed during the roleplay, with links to the specific posts where they occurred.

• • Several criminal NPC’s incited a riot.
  • There were numerous fights and minor assaults, mostly between NPC’s.
  • Bloodslayer the NPC defied a lawful order to surrender.

Finished - [Ryke - On the Edge of Sootspire Village] - Autumn Leaves

~ Lady Von Turginev ~ The woman and her horse had only just gotten to the ticket seller when the army leapt into action. It seemed the circus was being shut down. She sighed and turned her horse away. Of course, the proprietor was corrupt and greedy. They always were. People didn't join the...

www.rpnation.com

6. **Lore to Establish**
- Detail any new lore you'd like to introduce, including:
- Brief descriptions for lore moderators.
- Links to the posts where the lore was established.
- Nation of origin associated with the lore.

Finished - [Ryke - On the Edge of Sootspire Village] - Autumn Leaves

~ Lady Von Turginev ~ The woman and her horse had only just gotten to the ticket seller when the army leapt into action. It seemed the circus was being shut down. She sighed and turned her horse away. Of course, the proprietor was corrupt and greedy. They always were. People didn't join the...

www.rpnation.com

Bloody Bohemia, the offshoot circus from the derelict BloodSlayer’s Menagerie, was established outside Sootspire. It cannot support itself as it stands and may become a shantytown, though NachoGod has plans to turn it into the BigTop Wrestling Foundation.

Description: The remains of a derelict circus--performers trailers, empty cage wagons, and one good-sized circus tent--have risen from the ashes of the fiery end of a carnival gone wrong. The grounds are neatly organized, having been assembled by a contingent of the Baroness Regula’s soldiers, but the reconstruction was done in haste by inexperienced hands and is already looking a bit shabby. It has the military feel of a field bivouac rather than that of a permanent hamlet or entertainment venue.

Even so, enterprising entrepreneurs have moved in and provided jobs to performers and entertainment to patrons. Perhaps the nascent wrestling foundation will find its feet. Maybe the renewed sideshows will be successful. Or perhaps a criminal element will move back in and trade in illicit goods and services.

Nation of Origin: Ryken



7. **Partial Participants**
- Provide a list of partial participants, including their character names and roleplayer (RPer) names.

Regula Caelia - Elvario
The baroness came in with permission and Elvario asked if she could use her overwhelming force. This powerful OC joined the RP and the gravity of her presence altered the orbit of everyone involved, as one would expect. While she was initially restrained, eventually seeing the misery that the common people experience--and sometimes have to just accept or look the other way--caused her to lose her cool and apply extreme force in dealing with a criminal element embedded amidst the common people.
While the Baroness’ actions changed the nature of the RP, I enjoyed thinking about how common criminals would leverage collateral damage to wage asymmetrical warfare to give them a chance to escape against overwhelming force. It is worth noting that I intended to start a riot, and BloodSlayer riled up the crowd as an insurance policy prior to any of the Baroness’ actions. There was no good outcome available where the criminals were arrested and everyone lived happily ever after. I don’t write that kind of fantasy.
The player (Elvario) asked prior to joining, and asked before using Regula’s higher-tier powers. It was instructive to see how a high-level character can change an RP. I only regret that the lower-level OC’s ended up a bit sidelined.

Rentili Loxinofican - [USER=47910] conman2163 [/USER]
The soldier and his troops supporting Regula were caught between their duty to enact the Baroness’ decrees and to minimize the collateral damage of chasing criminals intent on inciting a riot. He used his minions and his influence with the Baroness to minimize the damage and trauma experienced by those who did not have criminal titles.

Caesar Romano - NachoGod
Caesar showed up in time to get in one lick defending the beleaguered NPC and head off a mob that was likely to cause damage and injury. He was then whisked away by the Baroness’ incredible powers and reacted appropriately. Perhaps in a future RP he can turn Bloody Bohemia around and use it to kickstart his own wrestling foundation.

Alister Marrok - Megilagor
This beastman arrived in time to join forces with Caesar and stop a mob from attacking Peat the Sylvari. He also reacted as one would expect when sent through a pocket dimension and then dumped in a field. He tried to lend assistance and also moved to include Lady Turginev in the RP.

Lady Von Turginev - FebruaryGemini
The noblewoman arrived late to the party when mass appraisals and shock troops were causing chaos in the circus, so she wisely hung back. Alister and I tried to give her an onramp to the RP, but we were wrapping up and the pacing of posting prevented her from taking much of a role.




8. **Partial Participant Invaders**
- Note if any partial participants were invaders.
- Specify whether world rules or player versus player (PvP) mechanics were utilized.
None

9. **Full-Time Participants**
- List all full-time participants, including:
- Character names.
- RPer names.
- Links to their character sheets.

Cheshire Charmel - DarkKitsune

Character - Characters

Viole Theme: Numb Rp'er Name: Megilagor Post Frequency: Once every few days, but at worst 1 a week per character, if the time between posts lengthens, I will inform you beforehand. Discord Name: megilagor#7452 Current RP: High Altitude Kittens Goals: Find a new master, Find a reason for their...

www.rpnation.com

The first and most-consistent OC in this RP seemed surprised by the dark and gritty nature of the adventure he found himself in. Still, the character found a way to stay true to form and maintain control of violent emotions seeing a Fae abused engendered in him. He navigated a number of obstacles and took advantage of a radical shift in the nature of the RP to achieve his goal of freeing Peat. While I have no doubt Cheshire will continue to work for the good of his patient, I have the feeling he may have bit off more than he can chew.

Winrey - Lolory Character - Characters

Coming in with his parents, this young OC entertained himself by causing trouble for troublemakers and trying to help out an animal being tormented. His actions saw some animal abusers get their just deserts and I was sorry that we couldn’t involve him further in some intrigue of freeing the captive Sylvari by less kinetic means. Winrey (and his writer) were good sports in dealing with my rather risque suggestivity revolving around The Bearded Lady’s “Private Show.”


10. **Characters with Point Boosters**
- Identify any characters who used point boosters, including:
- Links to the posts where the boosters were used to gain points (for narrative boosters, the first post in the scene is sufficient).

I don’t know of any.

11. **Recommended Titles**
- Suggest titles for characters based on their actions or outcomes within the roleplay.

I don’t know titles well, so please consider these somewhat tongue-in-cheek.

Cheshire - Houseplant Helper - Air, water, and sunlight. (And freedom, weaning off addictions, psychological comfort, with a liberal sprinkling of Black Puffballs) are all you need to keep a plant-women healthy.

Winrey - Little Scamp - Nothing like the good clean fun of helping a lion maul its tormentors.

Regula - Escalator - She brings a bazooka to a knife fight. But, hey, it was an unlicensed knife fight being held in her bazooka room.

Lady Von Turginev - Nope - Not getting involved in that. Nuh-uh.

Alister - Yep - He is here to help, be it defending a caged Sylvari or helping the flying death-dealer who just warped a whole festival through the airless void.

Caesar - Luchamaniaco - Suplexing is the answer to all life’s questions. Bonus points if you take a moment to pull on your mask first.

12. **Assets/Titles Roleplayed For**
- List any assets or titles that were roleplayed for, along with justifications for each.
Nothing

13. **Characters with [Wanted] or Criminal Titles**
- Provide a list of characters who already possess the [Wanted] title or any criminal titles.
None

14. **Hunters' Involvement**
- Indicate whether any characters with the [Wanted] title had their hunters appear or play a part in the roleplay.
Nope.

15. **Special Skills or Assets**
- List characters possessing:
- Buddy skills.
- Masterwork skills.
- Complex assets.
Regula has Baroness stuff.

16. **Transactions Performed**
- Note any transactions that occurred during the roleplay, such as:
- Weapon exchanges.
- Asset transfers.
None

17. **Rules Utilized**
- Specify the level of rules used in the roleplay:
- No rules.
- Some rules.
- Advanced in-house (IH) rules.
No Rules

18. **Character Sheet Oddities**
- Mention any noticeable oddities or inconsistencies in character sheets related to their purchases.
- Note: There's no need for a full evaluation; simply highlight any unusual findings during your review.
None

19. **Aftermath and Potential Lore Updates**
- Describe any potential aftermath or consequences based on the events of the roleplay.
- Suggest any updates that might be needed for the lore.

See the post above this spoiler.
There will be some grumbling about the Baroness’ heavy-handedness in Sootspire, but the citizens will eventually come around to see that her use of force was justified to put an end to the cruel circus.
Bloody Bohemia could become a part of Ryken’s lore, and/or it could become a wrestling venue.


20. **Narrator Bonuses**
- Recommend any bonuses you'd like to award to players based on their performance.

Regula / Elvario was a rapid and consistent poster once they joined. There was a lot of action to cover and they kept things moving.

Cheshire / DarkKitsune Read my posts and stuck to the narrative, even when I wrote things going in a direction that the
y probably didn’t expect.

21. **Additional Notes**
- Include any other observations or points you'd like feedback on or that require further commentary.

Nothing Further

 

[Novama]

Isekai Hell Grade​

Irihi DarkKitsune Lolory Elvario NachoGod FebruaryGemini conman2163 Megilagor

Good effort keeping up with the high tier antics of the baronness. Not everyone has proved so flexible and nerf high tier characters or just bar them from play all together. A good ideal more narrators could strive for. Makes the world feel more lived in by a lot more folks. Always a bigger fish. Feels like its been a while since I've read a high tier character cut loose. Nice how most of the stronger folk are played by people with a smidge more restraint. Probably woulda liked to see more ability usage overall to justify some of the character actions, but the big ones were all supported in this way and that's probably more important. Despite popularity, we haven't had many circus rp's.

Several partial participants in this one. I imagine the rp would have been fairly different had the full cast been present the whole time. Kinda the natura of stores that organically flow with the participants.

The narrator feedback has been particularly helpful in providing context to the rp's various happenings. It's not every day the narrator tries to inject a more nuanced look at bad guys doing bad things. although more common in other forms of media, in rps, the bad guys are generally strictly bad and the role they serve society is overlooked for the sake of convenience.


Aftermath

Sootspire would see an increase in the number of a roaming entertainers and have the ramshackle Bloody Behemia for as long as it lasts and sticks around. Citizens in ryke outskirts are not overwhelmed by the entertainment options on hand, so the loss of the small circus was a blow to public morale and a disappointment to many. The supposed injustices or cruelty involved with their entertainment were openly doubted or just ignored by those put out by the outcome.

Rewards

Points
Irihi - 26pts (narrator)

Cheshire - 38pts
optional title acquired [Drug Addled Houseplant Helper] - Air, water, and sunlight. (And freedom, weaning off addictions, psychological comfort, with a liberal sprinkling of Black Puffballs) are all you need to keep a plant-women healthy.

Winrey - 29pts
optional title acquired [Innocent? Fun] - Nothing like the good clean fun of covertly helping a victim get bloody vengeance against its tormentors.


Partial Participant

Regula Caelia - 49pts

Caesar "Surpann" Romero - 16pts

Retili Loxinofican - 16pts

Alister Marrok - 6pts

Lady Von Turginev - 8pts