GM Mazreth reminds Ta’Vaalor about his schedule for storyline fun and games … er, I mean death and destruction. Around 8-10pm (Eastern, remember all our times are Eastern) regularly
By now, I’m sure most of you are at least roughly aware of my schedule. My schedule (and that of my Angels) tends to be fairly consistent (around 8ish eastern till whenever). Unfortunately, this also seems to be everyone else’s schedule and sometimes conflicts arise. Last night is a perfect example, my availability coincided with an event put on by the Mentors. The Mentors do such an awesome job and provide an invaluable service to Gemstone and I feel they deserve all of the praise and participation they can get, so I chose not to advance the storyline last night and force anyone to choose between dying and attending their event.
That being said, the rest of the week looks pretty solid for the storyline so, to borrow a line from Kenstrom, buy deeds. Besides, I can think of no better way to spend Valentine’s day then dying for your fortress. You have been warned.
~Mazreth
“Mother should I trust the Government?”
Date: 02/16/2017 06:52 PM CST
From: NICHOLSC11
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
When speaking of this to people in RL, I reported that you were going for a Valentine’s Day massacre. Much fun!
Date: 02/16/2017 07:14 PM CST
From: LTLPRPRINCESS
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
You say it like that and… it comes off like he’s got a vendetta against love… not Vaalor.
Date: 02/18/2017 12:07 PM CST
From: GS4-MAZRETH
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
To anyone who is interested:
Ties that Bind has been rolling along and picking up steam with such wonderfully player-improvised story arcs that I can’t believe it’s at this point. The FINALE for Ties that Bind will be this Sunday, 2/19/17 starting at around 7 pm eastern. Though I am somewhat saddened to see this story end, I am excited for whatever comes next.
Aww, I’m going to be sad to see it end. This has been a great run!
Date: 02/18/2017 04:19 PM CST
From: NICHOLSC11
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
Gah!! I’ll have to see how quickly I can get on on Sunday – I work until 6 EST and don’t always get out on time. I’ll keep my fingers crossed!
Date: 02/18/2017 06:19 PM CST
From: CHULAK
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
>The FINALE for Ties that Bind will be this Sunday, 2/19/17 starting at around 7 pm eastern.
Will there be creatures casting Itchy Curse involved?
Speaking in Faendryl, Jahosk says, “You will now be known as Blade Durakar, the Palestra.”
Date: 02/18/2017 06:35 PM CST
From: GS4-MAZRETH
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
<Will there be creatures casting Itchy Curse involved?
Considering the story has involved mainly creatures from OTF, and creatures in OTF cast the itchy curse then it would be a good bet that at least one creature will cast it.
~Mazreth
“Mother should I trust the Government?”
Date: 02/18/2017 09:23 PM CST
From: VANKRASN39
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
>itchy curse
Can’t you turn that part of them off?
Date: 02/18/2017 09:38 PM CST
From: GS4-MAZRETH
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
>itchy curse
>Can’t you turn that part of them off?
Not with that particular creature, no. This has not been an issue. In the three weeks the story has run, we have lost exactly zero weapons. It is something I (and the other GMs involved) watch very, very closely. It is part of normal game mechanics for creatures in Old Ta’Faendryl and removing it for the invasions just does not make sense.
~Mazreth
“Mother should I trust the Government?”
Date: 02/18/2017 09:47 PM CST
From: CHULAK
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
>Not with that particular creature, no. This has not been an issue. In the three weeks the story has run, we have lost exactly zero weapons. It is something I (and the other GMs involved) watch very, very closely. It is part of normal game mechanics for creatures in Old Ta’Faendryl and removing it for the invasions just does not make sense.
If by issue you mean a lost weapon, sure. But if by issue you mean seeing and hearing my highlight string for this come up and proceeding to stow my weapon and hightail it out of the area all the while cursing the use of such game mechanics, then no it has been an issue. I had enjoyed the invasion and participating as part of a group there, but I refuse to risk losing a weapon of mine to this mechanic again.
Speaking in Faendryl, Jahosk says, “You will now be known as Blade Durakar, the Palestra.”
Date: 02/18/2017 10:05 PM CST
From: PRICKLIES
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
That’s why the gods invented cheap weapons, Durakar.
Date: 02/18/2017 10:26 PM CST
From: CHULAK
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
If i wanted to use cheap weapons I would not have invested the time, effort, and money into making mine into something capable of handling everything except a demon (I do have a secondary weapon for demon handling that I have spent time and effort on making, would be loathe to lose this one too).
Speaking in Faendryl, Jahosk says, “You will now be known as Blade Durakar, the Palestra.”
Date: 02/18/2017 10:34 PM CST
From: MAZEIKISJ
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
A more reasonable request could be phrased as ‘then as a fair and balanced compromise, how about that one specific creature that hosts disarm mechanics ala Curse be removed from the invasion lineup, and if possible with only one more night of a weekend finale to go for this storyline, potentially replaced with a hastily repainted other creature for funsies.’
-james, bristenn’s player
You think to yourself, “FFF-“
A giant white bunny hurls a powerful lightning bolt at you!
You evade the bolt by a hair!
Date: 02/19/2017 01:02 AM CST
From: SAM2004
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
Lost items during invasions aren’t really that much of an issue. The GMs have been absolutely fantastic at getting any back that were picked up by critters
A lad in ill fitting crimson livery runs in and taps Chamorr on the shoulder. “This was found on the battlefield, it might be yours.” He quickly places a black shield on the ground and heads off.
even adding some RP flare to it. I really have no fears walking around with my gear during the invasion.
>>If i wanted to use cheap weapons I would not have invested the time, effort, and money into making mine into something capable of handling everything except a demon (I do have a secondary weapon for demon handling that I have spent time and effort on making, would be loathe to lose this one too).
We’re talking about a short-term series of invasions. Feel free to take your high-power toys and go home — even though everyone is aware that GMs are very attentive to weapon loss here — but don’t pretend that it was impossible for you to participate.
You are getting outraged at your own highlight string.
Date: 02/19/2017 08:05 AM CST
From: CHULAK
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
I didn’t say it was impossible for me to participate. It was a choice that I made based on creatures with a mechanic that has affected me in the past. After having nearly lost a 50m silver weapon to Itchy Curse in the past it is a situation that I simply refuse to place myself knowingly in again, whether or not anyone says they watch it closely.
And no, the outrage is not at my highlight string. It’s against what I see as outdated weapon loss mechanics, as they could be implemented in similar ways that don’t risk the loss of valuable items but do provide hindrances to combat.
Speaking in Faendryl, Jahosk says, “You will now be known as Blade Durakar, the Palestra.”
Date: 02/19/2017 11:50 AM CST
From: MYACELESTIA
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
In combat(war), to lose something should be expected. I’ve been really impressed with how well the GMs have done at returning things when they don’t really have to. I understand the expense that you don’t want to lose, but to ask things be changed at the final night is a bit much.
Had you actually said this out loud in Ta’Vaalor, you would have likely been told that we don’t need your help anyway. Ah, that Vaalor pride… My character wouldn’t say that, but there are several others who would. It’s been said several times already. You could try fighting at a gate that doesn’t have that creature.
Date: 02/19/2017 12:52 PM CST
From: MORRIGAN3
Subj: Re: Tentative Schedule
I am very sad I will not get to be there for the end dof to me being at work until 430 pst…..player of Mercies
Date: 02/19/2017 08:49 PM CST
From: RICEA3
Subj: Re: Event Finale
While it’s fresh and I’m thinking about it, here are the cool messages we saw tonight as the OTF group of defenders. I think it’s complete and in correct order but there was a lot happening.
~~ A small bubble of magic escapes from the shadows, unraveling before your eyes. You are shifted to another place, another time. Your vision is distorted as the world around you takes on a hazy blue appearance and you see orcs before you, attacking an elven outpost. The vision fades.
The shadows writhe, getting smaller as another bubble of magic bursts forth, unraveling before your eyes. You are shifted once again to another time and place. Your vision is distorted as the world around you takes on a hazy blue appearance and you see a large statue of an elven king. The vision fades.
The air crackles with energy as the shadows shrink further and a large bubble of magic bursts forth, causing the ground to shake. The world goes black around you and you push outward with your mind seeking contact with anything. A presence approaches, coming slowly closer until a brilliant light floods the area and you see the face of an elven King through a hazy blue film. Without a word, you sense the minds make contact and the vision fades.
Your vision shifts again to darkness, another presence drawing close to you. You sense a feeling of desperation that matches your own. Light fills the area as a red-haired female elven warrior stares down at you through a hazy blue film, your minds meet, and the vision fades.
Light once again fills your world and you see the face of the red-haired elven warrior through a hazy blue film. At your subtle suggestion, she lifts you up and slips you beneath her crimson jacket as the vision fades.
Shadowy tendrils reach outward from where Vindicto once stood wrapping themselves around your ankle as great arcs of magic lance outward toward you. You are shifted to a bridge outside a fortified gate. You stare outward from within the female warrior’s eyes, your red hair whipping about you in the wind, the elven King held tightly in your grasp. “What I do, I do for Vaalor!” she screams. Wrestling internally, you regain control and quickly draw your knife across the King’s throat before stepping through a nearby portal and the vision fades.
The shadowy tendrils wrap more tightly around you, the arc of magical energy piercing you and others near you. You are transported to the ruins of a once proud elven fortress, hardly able to contain the sense of anticipation building within you. Your eagerness rises to a near sexual crescendo as you witness the red-haired female elven warrior bring her boot forcibly upon a cloudy blue glass orb. Light fills every particle of your being as the orb shatters and you rise upwards. Freedom! You elatedly scream, “Feedom at last. They will pay for what they’ve done they will pay,” and the vison fades.
Without warning, the shadows recede, collapsing upon themselves. The final threads of magic unraveling, an explosion like no other rocks the area, knocking you to the ground and leaving you nearly deaf. When you come to your senses, no trace of the shadows or Vindicto remains. ~~
During the summary later in victory court, Esana filled in some of the blanks for said visions (thank you!):
Esana recites:
“We saw a series of visions. Stops in time if you will. First the Ravelin and orcs, then the giant statue of King Tyrnian. Both visions were distorted as if seen through a blue film. “
“Next we saw darkness, followed by light and King Tyrnian’s face. We felt their minds touch. Following, we saw Lord Legionnaire Commander Tiope and felt thier minds touch.”
“We saw Tiope take the orb and slip it in her jacket. We saw her standing on the bridge, King Tyrnian in hand. Sir, we heard her cry out “What I do, I do for Vaalor” and felt a struggle within. We felt something else take control as we saw her kill the king and step through a portal.”
“We saw Tiope once more amid the ruins of Shadowguard. We watched as she smashed the orb, freeing Vindicto. We heard his glee and his threats of revenge.”
“The orb was a cloudy blue glass orb, which might explain the haze of the earlier visions.”
“With that, the shadows collapsed upon themselves and a great magical explosion ensued, knocking us all to the ground. When we recovered, Vindicto was no more.” ~~
~Amanda, player of Treeva
Date: 02/19/2017 09:01 PM CST
From: RICOTTAM1
Subj: Re: Event Finale
Just awesome! Thank you so much for the logs, was dying to see them!
Major, major kudos to Maz and the other GMs, the past few weeks have in every sense of the words been an epic adventures. Moments of combat, bravery, even real fear. I think this SL gave so many aspects of the game different opportunities to shine. Also, on a personal note, I genuinely appreciate having the main stuff saved for the weekends schedule wise.
This was truly an adventure I’ll remember, and it even has the added touch of having a pendulous ending. Kudos to all, also to all the great RPers out there from TV and elsewhere :).
Date: 02/19/2017 09:07 PM CST
From: GS4-VALYRKA
Subj: Re: Event Finale
It has been fun to watch all the excellent Rp and to have a hand in killing you all!
~ Valyrka ~ Ta’Illistim Elves Dark Elves
Date: 02/19/2017 09:21 PM CST
From: GS4-ZOELLE
Subj: Re: Event Finale
Hands down the best storyline I’ve participated in creating. Everyone did an amazing job with the RP. I personally had a blast killing you over and over, and look forward to more opportunities where Maz lets Kynlee and I come back to do it again.
~Zoelle~
Date: 02/19/2017 09:22 PM CST
From: GS4-MAZRETH
Subj: Re: Event Finale
Well, considering I spent eight hours preparing for the three hours tonight, I’m beat. I promise there is a recap post coming but I don’t have it in me tonight. Though I think Esana’s recap is pretty accurate, I will flesh out the timeline a bit more for those of you who weren’t around seven years ago when all of this started. I should have that written and up tomorrow.
I do want to take the time to say thank you for all of the amazing RP you guys and gals provided to give this story life, all of the different directions you took it, all of the drama and intrigue has been something I will never forget. It truly has been a highlight of my time as Ta’Vaalor’s guru.
~Mazreth
“Mother should I trust the Government?”
Date: 02/19/2017 10:56 PM CST
From: GS4-KYNLEE
Subj: Re: Event Finale
Helping out with this has been an amazing adventure for me. I’ve loved watching all of you work together so fluidly. Seeing each of you help where you were needed, whether it was up in the battlements where you guys were getting pelted with enemy arrows, in triage struggling to keep up, or running between fronts to see what was what, was great. Watching massive groups of corpses flawlessly fogged out in one fell swoop was beyond awesome. Many of your characters have become more real for me after reading posts that you’ve shared with us during the last few weeks so, thank you for that! This is definitely one of my favorite storylines of all time. It has been an honor killing, well, quite a few of you. 🙂
~~GM Kynlee~~ Elanthian Architect Breaker of Things GS4-Kynlee@play.net 3/50
Date: 02/20/2017 12:50 AM CST
From: ROBLAR
Subj: Re: Event Finale
I’m sad I missed the finale, but a house event overran past when I heard it was already over.
I definitely appreciate all who worked on this storyline and the great invasions! The town was also very welcoming of (non-elven) help! Mostly 😉
