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Post by Plotter on Oct 16, 2019 18:21:04 GMT -5
It has been several tendays since the Cloudstone Palace was raised out of the ground and Duncan Hornbow was declared Lord and Baron of a new Shield Barony in the Stonelands. The massive task of cleaning and renovating the old palace has been slow, as just getting workers, food and supplies to the palace is a dangerous journey over monster infested mountains. While the restoration of Cloudstone will take a long time to complete, there are already rumours of council meetings within the palace. The Silverthorn family has left the Lonesome Tankard Inn in Eveningstar, and wandered north over the mountains to settle down in their ancestral halls just outside the Cloudstone Palace. Similarly, the rest of the Hornbow family in Suzail has now joined Duncan and his son Fergus at the Hornbow estate at Cloudstone. The Hornbow estate in Suzail remains the property of House Hornbow, but is now mostly used by their hired traders. The two noble families with theirs retainers and servants are not the only ones to have settled in the Shield Barony. Cathryn Stormcrown has taken her promised seat on the council, and a few mountain folks that lost their homes to the undead hordes has settled down in the abandoned buildings outside the palace. Furthermore, a Red Wizard of Thay and his bodyguards frequently visits the barony. Today, town criers around the realm announce that there will be an "adventurer appreciation ceremony" at the Cloudstone Palace on the 19th of Marpenoth, "to reward all the brave adventurers who risked their lives to end the undead threat". All the adventurers who took part in the clearing of the palace from the Mad Liches of Esparin are invited to receive their promised rewards. It will be an open event, and the public is welcome to attend. It is also rumoured that there shall be some sort of announcement regarding the Cloudstone council. The rumoured "grand ball" at Cloudstone shall be held at a later date. // The reward ceremony will be held this Saturday, the 19th of October, at 8 PM London time.
// All characters who journeyed from Skull Crag will be rewarded (even if you did not reach the palace).
// If your character took part in the clearing of the palace, but cannot be here for the reward event, then you may receive your reward at a later time.
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Post by malclave on Oct 20, 2019 2:15:56 GMT -5
// Wasn't able to attend this... is the "later time" going to be something scheduled, or should I contact you IC via PM or the NPC letters board? No xp is one thing, but I need gold to try to replace at least some of the healing kits I used on other people.
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Post by Plotter on Oct 20, 2019 4:13:42 GMT -5
// Wasn't able to attend this... is the "later time" going to be something scheduled, or should I contact you IC via PM or the NPC letters board? No xp is one thing, but I need gold to try to replace at least some of the healing kits I used on other people.
// Yes, find me in-game or send a PM (IC or OOC) and we'll work out a time for your reward.
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Post by Plotter on Oct 28, 2019 11:21:21 GMT -5
It has been almost a tenday since the "adventurer appreciation ceremony" at the Cloudstone Palace, where adventurers were rewarded with magic, gold, and flowers for their aid in defeating the mad liches of Esparin. Those who had fallen to the undead hordes were also honoured with a moment of silence, and Baron Duncan Hornbow introduced the members of his council to the public: - Ambassador Radoc Karyn ( Radoc_Karyn), in charge of diplomatic relations, and the barony's face outwards. - Steward Fergus Hornbow, in charge of finances, taxes, and construction. - Guard Captain Joram Brightsby ( Nicoen), in charge of defence and security, and the creation of a new Cloudstone Guard. - High Mage Cathryn Stormcrown, in charge of arcane matters and the creation of a new Mage Guard. - Advisor Lord Edmond Silverthorn, who may advice the Baron on all matters.
Two minor positions were also made public; - Court Physician Siphanien Iartoris, in charge of public health matters. - Master of the Hunt Karsk the Slayer of Many, in charge of bringing fresh meat to the barony. It was also announced that Guard Captain Joram Brightsby and High Mage Cathryn Stormcrown are seeking warriors and mages to join the new Cloudstone Guard and Mage Guard. Applicants should seek them out at Cloudstone or contact them by letter. Baron Hornbow also announced that the council would not be complete without a Court Priest; someone to act as spiritual advisor, and to coordinate with other priests who may want to tend to the local shrines. Today, town criers across the realm announce that those seeking the position of Court Priest are invited to an open Cloudstone council on the 9th of Uktar. The aspiring Court Priests may then present their candidacy, and may be asked questions by the councillors and spectators. If an aspiring Court Priest cannot come to the Cloudstone council on the specified time, then they must announce their candidacy to Baron Hornbow or Ambassador Radoc before the 9th of Uktar, and will be requested to meet with the councillors at a later time. Once candidates has been introduced, the council shall be given time to further discuss and consider the position, until the Baron calls for another meeting and the current councillors shall vote on the Court Priest candidates. Baron Hornbow would prefer a cleric as Court Priest, but druids and paladins may be considered. The Baron welcomes all legal faiths. // Court Priest candidates are welcome to the Cloudstone council on Saturday the 9th of November at 8 PM London time. If candidates or council members cannot be there, then they may have to meet up and talk at a later time.
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Post by Plotter on Nov 7, 2019 17:55:35 GMT -5
// *Bump* // Court Priest candidates are welcome to the Cloudstone council on Saturday the 9th of November at 8 PM London time. If candidates or council members cannot be there, then they may have to meet up and talk at a later time. // If you're interested in the Court Priest position, please let me know in a PM as soon as possible.
// Apologies to anyone waiting for NPC interactions. RL is plotting against me, so progress may be a bit slow.
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Post by Plotter on Nov 13, 2019 18:20:28 GMT -5
// *Bump* // Court Priest candidates are welcome to the Cloudstone council on Saturday the 9th of November at 8 PM London time. If candidates or council members cannot be there, then they may have to meet up and talk at a later time. // If you're interested in the Court Priest position, please let me know in a PM as soon as possible.
// Apologies to anyone waiting for NPC interactions. RL is plotting against me, so progress may be a bit slow.
// *Bump bump!*
// This did not happen last Saturday. New time is Friday the 15th of November at 8 PM London time. If you're interested in the Court Priest position, please let me know in a PM.
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Post by Plotter on Nov 21, 2019 16:39:07 GMT -5
Rumours spread from the Cloudstone Barony of a recent meeting where two Court Priest candidates were introduced to the council. The first being the gnome Kasma Hymnir, Priestess of Garl Glittergold. It is well known she has been helping the Shield Barony to clear the mountains of monsters between Cloudstone and Eveningstar, and is a good friend of Ambassador Radoc Karyn. The second candidate is known as Vinoc Whitecrag, Talon of Talos. A loud mouthed follower of Talos, Vinoc claims his family founded the shrine of Talos at Cloudstone and served the old Stormcrown family during the times of Esparin. He is often seen walking about the Cloudstone Valley, saying that the stormy weather around the palace is a sign that Cloudstone is blessed by Talos.
The council has yet to make a decision, and still accepts candidates for the Court Priest council position.
// If you're interested in the position of Cloudstone Court Priest, please send me a PM. I will be available to meet potential Court Priest candidates on Saturday around 8 PM London time. The soft level cap is 25.
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Post by Plotter on Oct 1, 2020 11:06:55 GMT -5
News from the Cloudstone Shield Barony has been scarce over the last year. Occasionally news trickle down the mountains of a variety of things, such as a new inn opening, or the occasional progress on the restoration work of the palace and surrounding structures. High Mage Cathryn Stormcrown has been recruiting retainers lately, and the mysterious knight at Shieldmeet has joined house Hornbow. Some say House Silverthorn has its first true Silver Hunter in ages, whatever that means. The council has yet to choose a Court Priest, and the weather at Cloudstone is as dismal as ever.
More recently, news spread throughout the realm of a skirmish at the gates of Cloudstone. A force of frost gnolls marched out of the mountains at end of last tenday, gathering outside the Cloudstone gates, and bringing with them two hostages. It is said that Cloudstone and the frost gnolls had some sort of treaty to not attack each other, and that Cloudstone's Huntmaster, Karsk "the Slayer of Many", had broken this treaty. The frost gnolls under the leadership of Rashkt the Ripper now demanded Karsk's head. As the frost gnolls gathered, Cloudstone mustered a defence of guards, retainers and assorted adventurers. Negotiations with the frost gnolls were difficult, but eventually they agreed to some sort of duel for the lives of the hostages. The duel was short, and when Karsk slew Rashkt, chaos erupted. It is unclear if the frost gnolls or Cloudstone defenders attacked first, but after a violent struggle Cloudstone stood victorious and the remaining gnolls fled into the mountains. Unfortunately, not both hostages could be saved, but Cloudstone suffered no significant loses… With Rashkt the Ripper killed, the treaty with the frost gnolls has been declared officially broken. The gnolls has so far stayed away from the immediate mountain trail to Cloudstone, but no doubt a new chieftain will soon arise among the gnolls. Karsk the Slayer of Many is now imprisoned at Cloudstone awaiting punishment for breaking the treaty, and Baron Duncan Hornbow is looking for a new Huntmaster. Interested hunters are welcome to attend the next Cloudstone council meeting. // Next council meeting is on Sunday the 4th of October, at 7 PM London time.
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Post by Masterbard Alyster Darkharp on Oct 2, 2020 17:13:46 GMT -5
Rumors circulate that Alyster Darkharp will be entertaining the guests and adventurers at The Unicorn's Door in Cloustone tonight. He has been a regular visitor to the Inn since he arrived at Urbuchek's settlement a few days ago and seems to be officing out of the Inn while he gets things arranged for a stay in the Pass. Regular messengers from Alizarin have been seen coming and going over the last two days.
//9:30pm cst
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Post by Plotter on Oct 8, 2020 8:53:03 GMT -5
News circulate in northern Cormyr that the Cloudstone council has chosen Kimbera Dawnlight of Lathander as their Court Priestess, and that Baron Duncan appointed Ting Cent as new Huntmaster. Some say someone else was also appointed for something, but such rumours remain vague.
Rumours also spread from Cloudstone to Eveningstar, and from Evenignstar to Suzail and beyond, that Raymond Silverthorn is soon to wed merchant's daughter Isolda Medini on the 11th of Marpenoth. The wedding will take place outside the Silverthorn residence in Cloudstone, but the following feast and dance is only for invited guests. Posters are put up in inns and taverns, announcing that Lord Edmond seeks to hire bards to perform at the feast. Interested bards should send word to Lord Edmond as soon as possible. // 7 PM London time, this Sunday the 11th of October.
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Post by Plotter on Jan 15, 2021 10:12:19 GMT -5
News from Cloudstone has been scarce over the past months, but now word slowly spreads that...
The group known as The Garden has established a Gnome Home in Cloudstone...
That the Cloudstone Mage Guard has finally got their own room at the palace, and mage guard Arwin Schrader has moved The Box project there from the Alizarin Academy. Arwin has said that The Schrader Box is almost ready for testing...
It is also said that renovations of the Lathander shrine continues...
And that work on a gate in Dead Man's Pass has begun...
Perhaps most noticeable, is that the defences of Cloudstone has been strengthened by the inventions of Jan Jansen of Alkabooms in Eveningstar. Buzzing and sparkling with lightning, the "Jansen Lightning Coil Towers(TM)" has been installed at the gates of Cloudstone, and will presumably defend the Shield Barony by shooting lightning bolts at any enemies...
// Sorry for my unannounced absence lately. I'll get back into plotting soon...
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Post by styxxbone1 on Jan 19, 2021 21:43:03 GMT -5
*Moar dwarves are seen moving around the grounds, helping with construction projects and repairs. The hulking figure of a mining golem is seen shifting and placing the larger stones and timbers for the various projects. They discuss ideas for trade potential and a building that could house a smithy.* styxx
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Post by styxxbone1 on Jan 29, 2021 19:53:03 GMT -5
*Reports of assassins attacking Cloudstone supporters are heard.*
styxx
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Post by DOT on Feb 6, 2021 2:53:23 GMT -5
Following a meeting with Furin and Tundor at Cloudstone, Bodika would quill a letter with a proposal to the pair.
...following that she would meet with the manling to advise her regarding a curious unicorn pendant she recently obtained.
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Post by styxxbone1 on Feb 10, 2021 21:06:02 GMT -5
*A strange chalk symbol is marked on the corner of the door to the left of the Cloudstone Inn.* styxx
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Post by styxxbone1 on Feb 13, 2021 19:40:03 GMT -5
Outer gate construction. styxx
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Post by Plotter on Feb 27, 2021 21:15:49 GMT -5
News trickles down the Storm Horns from Cloudstone to Eveningstar, and throughout the realm...
The Cloudstone Palace suddenly sank into the ground during the Anniversary Ball...
...and a little while later, it rose again to the surface...
And Baron Duncan Hornbow, and many guests, were dead from poison...
And now the Cloudstone Shield Barony has a new Baron: Fergus Hornbow.
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Post by Plotter on Mar 6, 2021 5:52:22 GMT -5
Over the past week rumours have circulated throughout the realm about the tragedy at Cloudstone. It is said Duncan Hornbow, his wife Eleanor, and ten guests lost their lives by poisoned wine during the Anniversary Ball. Investigations are ongoing, but official details are scarce. Most rumours seem to agree that it was indeed the dessert wine that was poisoned. Fortunately, many of the guests were on the dance floor when the wine was served, as Duncan had just called for a dance to celebrate the winner of the Belle of the Ball. It is likely the dance for the Belle of the Ball saved many lives that night. The new Baron, Fergus Hornbow, has now been officially recognized as Shield Baron of Cloudstone by the Crown. Young King Azoun V have also expressed his condolences to the Hornbow family, the Cloudstone Shield Barony, and to all who lost someone at the ball. While Fergus still mourns the loss of his parents, he has has already made several public statements, temporarily suspending the council and making immediate changes to the Cloudstone council positions. He was also quick to correct that there had been a miscount of the Belle of the Ball votes, and Alia Cielle had actually won instead of Hadriane Foya. Yesterday, it was announced that Alia Cielle will replace Fergus as Steward of Cloudstone. Lexi Onolath has also been appointed High Inquisitor, and will lead the investigation regarding the poison murders. Hadriane Foya was also appointed new Guard Captain, replacing Alistair Bresk who only served as Guard Captain for a day after Joram Brightsby was removed. The Baron also announced that the Cloudstone Guard would be merged with the Hornbow Guards. Several guardsmen immediately resigned as they heard the news. Two even went to join the Silverthorns, one to the Stormcrowns, and a handful left the Shield Barony entirely. The majority still stayed in Cloudstone however, now as part of the Hornbow Guard.
In an earlier public announcement poster, it was also mentioned that there will soon be a funeral…
// Funeral tomorrow, Sunday, at 7 PM London time.
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ren
Old School
Posts: 643
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Post by ren on Mar 7, 2021 18:40:31 GMT -5
-Elon holds vigil outside the front door of the Silverthorn House as long as need be.... in case the patient inside needs his care again
Dylan has been sent as runner to Siph and Henrik to update them and bring to the Silverthorn house as soon as they are able-
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Post by malclave on Mar 19, 2021 4:51:59 GMT -5
As the first rays of sunlight on the first day of spring reach the Cloudstone Barony, a lone voice can be heard from the shrine of Lathander singing the Song of Dawn.
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Post by Plotter on Jun 15, 2021 12:16:34 GMT -5
News from Cloudstone has been scarce lately, but now the rumours once again trickle down the mountains into Eveningstar and beyond. It is said that after months of investigations into the tragic events at the Anniversary Ball, there has finally been a trial of the suspected murderers. Baron Fergus Hornbow accused four suspects of involvement in the poison murders.
The first suspect was Frosino Medini, the Amnian merchant who had delivered the wine. The War Wizards had also found the same poison used in the wine in his warehouse, but Frosino claimed it had been planted there. A witness, former Medini guardsman Talbot Smithe, claimed otherwise, that it indeed was Medini's poison. Though, some say that the witness exaggerated or outright lied. There are also rumours that Frosino and Minister Mynian Copperhand of Valkur’s Roar, may have kidnapped and tortured Talbot for several months last year.
The second and third suspect were Annita Fryar and Gunnar Shieldskin, who had been captured in Cloudstone several weeks ago. They were accused of poisoning the wine during the ball, though the details of how they did this is still a little unclear. Some say Annita caused a distraction by throwing mushroom sauce on Adelina Copperhearth, which then allowed Gunnar to sneak off to the kitchen and poison the wine.
It is rumoured that Annita Fryar may in fact not have been the human woman she appeared to be, but was in fact the dwarf known as Morgnar Lutgenk. Morgnar had been thought to have been killed a few years ago, when he was known as one of the three Acid Killers who sought to claim the Onyx Tower in the Tunland Marshes. How he came back to life in this body remains a mystery. Gunnar Shieldskin, is also said to have been the dwarf known as Chop, who has been working against the Cloudstone Shield Barony ever since it’s inception. He first worked for the necromancer Tarkas Bresk and his henchmen, and then with the Mad Liches of Esparin. Two witnesses, Chae'zana Sylneiros and Darion 'Basher' Redwater, were brought forward to identify Chop. Though their testimony were a little uncertain, they overall seemed to agree that this was indeed Chop.
The fourth suspect was Lord Edmond Silverthorn, who was still recovering from a heart attack a couple months ago that had left him partly paralysed and unable to walk. Baron Fergus Hornbow presented a letter, apparently written by Edmond, that claimed Edmond had conspired with Adrian Faespar to help him murder the Hornbows at the ball in exchange for a share in the silver mine. The details are fuzzy, but some say that Adrian Faespar must have then worked with Frosino, Annita, and Gunnar, in a grand conspiracy against the Hornbows, and perhaps the Copperhearths too. Lord Edmond claimed the letter was a forgery, and that he has never worked with the Faespars. Marcy Faespar however was there as a witness, and said she had seen Edmond meet with her now deceased father Adrian. Edmond still claimed he had not met with Adrian.
Since Lord Edmond is a noble, he had the privilege to be judged by a Crown representative, rather than the local lord. Senior War Wizard Orina Meadows took on this onerous, and prestigious, role.
Before any judgements could be made, the Cloudstone court was shocked by a sudden display of gruesome violence. As Annita and Gunnar were being questioned, Gunnar was seen reaching for his throat… and a moment later his head was violently severed from the neck in an explosive fountain of blood and whirling razor blades. The blades burst from his throat and killed a nearby guardsman and badly wounded Court Physician Siphanien.
Once all the evidence had been presented and the accused had a chance to respond, Baron Fergus made his judgement. He found Annita Fryar guilty, and sentenced her to be stoned to death. There were some who protested against this, including Guard Captain Hadriane Foya. Fergus’ retainers Hadriane and Davina spoke privately with him, and he soon changed the punishment to a “more mundane execution”. Fergus then also found Frosino Medini guilty and sentenced him to death. Many protested against this too, but Orina Meadows supported the Baron that he had the right to hold and judge trials in his Barony, not that this made anyone happier. Many protested, and said this was an act of grief and anger by the Baron, but he would hear none of it. Guard Captain Hadriane Foya then cast off her cloak, signet ring, and Guard Captain’s badge, immediately resigning. The baron responded by arresting her, and she is now imprisoned in the Cloudstone dungeon.
Before anyone could be executed, War Wizard Orina Meadows was to make her judgement of Lord Edmond. However, Lord Edmond interrupted her, and for some unclear reason, demanded a Trial by Combat, as this was a privilege promised to to all nobles and councillors of Cloudstone by Lord Duncan Hornbow. Baron Fergus agreed, and a Trial by Combat shall be held within a tenday.
With Hadriane no longer Guard Captain, Fergus appointed Sir Alistair Bresk as the new Guard Captain, and ordered him to proceed with the execution. With a swift thrust of his spear, Alistair executed Annita Fryar. She seemed strangely relieved by this. Alistair’s appointment and the execution of Annita were also met with loud protests, especially from the Silverthorns, who said Alistair was an undead abomination, and not suitable as guard captain. The legality of an undead guard captain is disputed, considering Alistair does not appear to be animated, created, or summoned with a spell, and as many witnesses attested at Shieldmeet he swore loyalty of his own free will. When Orina questioned him, he answered politely and described himself as a cursed and spontaneously risen undead. The legal implications seems to be a bit of a grey area, but there is no doubt that many are upset with this disturbing revelation. Orina Meadows promised this would be investigated, and despite protests allowed the execution of Frosino to continue. Both Mynian Copperhand and Joram Brightsby tried to physically stop the execution, but in the end the Hornbow guards held them back as Alistair swiftly executed Frosino Medini.
How Cormyr and history will judge these events remain to be seen, but the trial has already been called “madness”, “a farce”, and “an outrageous travesty of justice”. A scholar in Arabel even called it “the worst trial since the Stone Trials in 1045 DR”. The Hornbow reputation that Duncan so carefully restored after his daughter Sheona’s misdeeds, is once again in jeopardy.
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Post by Plotter on Jun 21, 2021 16:24:46 GMT -5
The day of Lord Edmond Silverthorn's trial by combat had finally come. Early in the morning, a guardsman came rushing out from the Hornbow manor, with blood on his hands, desperately calling for a healer. Court Physician Siphanien was fortunately nearby, and quickly rushed back into the Hornbow manor house. It was later revealed that there had been an assassination attempt on the Baron by poisoned tea, but that his fiancee, Adelina Copperhearth had instead been poisoned. While she remains alive, her condition is uncertain. Baron Fergus was distraught by the assassination attempt, but decided to go along with the trial anyway. As the nobles, retainers, councillors and others had gathered in the council chamber of the palace, Fergus said that attempts on his life would not stop justice from happening, and to great protests he announced Alistair Bresk as his chosen champion. He explained that after thorough examination and long discussions the War Wizards had declared Alistair Bresk a sanctioned undead guardian of House Hornbow. However, being undead, Alistair is not allowed to hold any office and had been removed as Guard Captain. Furthermore, he may not leave the Cloudstone Shield Barony. A compromise and exception, that the War Wizards did not wish to see repeated elsewhere. This did little to convince the Silverthorns that it was fair to bring a tireless undead as a champion, but Baron Fergus ignored the arguments, and showed a document he claimed was Duncan Hornbow’s written rules for trial by combat in Cloudstone. The Silverthorns then suggested they bring all their retainers as champions, since the document did not state how many champions one may bring. Fergus simply responded by writing a new rule, that each side may only have one champion, since Duncan’s rules stated he had the right to do so. Swordmajor Norah Klender who was observing the trial tried to reason with the Baron, but the Baron firmly reminded her that she was here to observe and not interfere. Eventually, the trial began. Alistair stepped down the stairs of the council chamber’s amphitheatre to meet Edmond Silverthorns champion, the Silver Hunter Fero Fenden. Alistair proved as strong a warrior as he had at the Shieldmeet Tournament last summer, but Fero held him back with great determination. Alistair landed several hits with his spear, but Fero remained standing despite bleeding from several wounds. It looked like it was only a matter of time before he would tire… It was then, during the heat of the duel, when Alistair was no longer by his lord’s side that the tide suddenly turned. All at once, many of the Hornbow guardsmen drew their swords and pointed them at the necks of other nearby guards, or began to fight with each other. Shouting “For Cloudstone! For Hadriane!”, First Guardsman Kassdan Morthir rushed up to Baron Fergus and stabbed him in the back, sending him rolling down the stairs of the amphitheatre. Some say that Kassdan did this on command from former Guard Captain Hadriane Foya who had been chained to a chair to watch the duel, while others say Kassdan took responsibility for this deed himself, and that Hadriane had nothing to do with this. In either case, as Baron Fergus Hornbow bled out on the council floor, and death claimed another life, the Cloudstone Palace began to shake. Once again, the palace sank into the earth. With Fergus dead, his younger brother Wallace became the new head of House Hornbow, and as such Alistair Bresk followed his command. Wallace ordered Alistair to stand down, and the trial of combat was at an end. He then withdrew all charges against Lord Edmond Silverthorn, and released Hadriane Foya. Like Fergus when Duncan died, Wallace was next in line for the Cloudstone throne. Many argued that at fourteen years of age, he was too young to rule. Wallace did not disagree with this, and stated that he did not want the throne. Instead he asked the other nobles, councillors, and retainers for their opinions, and with their permission he chose a new baron: Lord Edmond Silverthorn. It was also agreed upon that the succession of the throne should henceforth be decided by the council rather than going to the oldest heir of the Baron. It was said this was just like it had once been done in old Esparin, when Uldor Stormcrown was elected king over an underage Silverthorn heir. The details of this agreement is to be clarified at a future council meeting. Lord Edmond Silverthorn then sat down upon the Cloudstone throne and claimed it for himself, and the Cloudstone Palace rose to the surface for the third time. He immediately reinstated Joram Brightsby as Guard Captain, and named Hadriane Foya as Joram’s second in command. High Mage Cathryn Stormcrown, Court Priestess Kimbera Dawnlight, Court Physician Siphanien, and Cryptkeeper Belladonna Mercier, were all welcomed back to the council. The position of Steward currently remains vacant, but will be filled at a later time. After months of Fergus Hornbow’s uncertain reign, the nightmare seems to finally be over. Young Lord Wallace and Lord Edmond seems to have come to an understanding, and after generations of hostilities, the two houses are finally at peace with each other. Yet, many details of these shocking events are still unclear. Throughout taverns in Cormyr, people have lively discussions on how the Hornbow guards orchestrated a coup and murdered their lord in cold blood while the council watched, how the palace sank and accepted another baron, and if the true culprits for the poison murders had truly been found and punished. Surely, the conversations must be lively in the halls of the War Wizards’ tower and in the royal court of Castle Obarskyr as well. Despite many unanswered questions, the future of Cloudstone looks brighter than it has in months.
If only the rain could stop.
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Post by Plotter on Jul 29, 2021 19:48:38 GMT -5
// Hail Cormyreans!
The Cloudstone story (aka Noble Endeavours) is moving toward interesting times... and there is now a chance to take a shortcut into the Cloudstone story for anyone who doesn't currently have an involved character.
I will allow players to roll up new recruits for the guards of the Silverthorn, Hornbow, and the Stormcrown Houses, as well as the Cloudstone Guard. These guardsmen characters should be considered semi-NPCs for the time being, and should not travel outside Cloudstone without DM permission. Guards of Cloudstone should be loyal to their house and Cloudstone, and will mostly take a background role (unless I say otherwise).
Also be aware that Guards risk permanent death. You will be given some XP and equipment. However, if you do survive until the end of the story, you may be able to play the character more normally afterwards. In the case of the houses, these guard characters are not considered retainers, but are part of the paid household guard and will follow the orders of their 'First Guardsman'. For now, I'll allow a maximum of two PC guards per house.
House Silverthorn are known as silver miners and monster hunters known as Silver Hunters. Lord Edmond Silverthorn recently became Shield Baron of Cloudstone after Baron Fergus Hornbow's death. Edmond seeks to bring the Silver Hunters back to glory. There has long been a feud between Hornbow and Silverthorn, but now they seem to be at peace.
House Hornbow is known as great merchants, architects, and bards. They are more fun and passionate than the more serious Silverthorns. Artair Hornbow was the architect who built Cloudstone. After the deaths of Baron Duncan and Fergus Hornbow, fourteen year old Wallace is now the head of the House.
House Stormcrown are known for their mages, but were thought to have gone extinct, until Cathryn Stormcrown 'the Witch of the Storm Horns' made her heritage known a few years ago. Cathryn is the High Mage of Cloudstone, head of the Mage Guard.
The Cloudstone Guard is independent from the Houses, but is run by Guard Captain Joram Brightsby, retainer of House Silverthorn, and Second Guard Captain Hadriane Foya, retainer of House Hornbow.
Of course, you can still join the Cloudstone story as normal with other characters. It is rumoured that the houses are all looking for retainers, and the Cloudstone Guard and Mage Guard are recruiting...
Cloudstone events are usually scheduled for weekend Euro evening/nights. The next one will probably be on Sunday.
PM me if you're interested with a short description of your character, or if you have any questions.
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Post by Plotter on Aug 5, 2021 18:14:16 GMT -5
Over the last week worrisome rumours have spread from Cloudstone. It is said that the Crown has revoked the title of Shield Baron from Edmond Silverthorn for the Cloudstone houses’ involvement in the murder of Baron Fergus Hornbow. No matter how disliked Fergus was, murder is still murder, and murder of a noble lord is treason. Furthermore, the Cloudstone Palace and it's curse of falling and rising with its baron is deemed too dangerous and unstable, and the Cloudstone Shield Barony is now to be given to the War Wizards. Once Lord Edmond eventually passes on from this world, the Cloudstone Palace is to remain burried in the ground, for the safety of the realm. The Crown has given the nobles of Cloudstone seven days to vacate the barony. As recompensation and in recognition of the houses’ efforts to stop the undead hordes a few years ago, House Hornbow and House Silverthorn were both promised fertile lands in eastern Cormyr if they cooperate. House Hornbow was offered a ruined keep at Monksblade, where they may watch over the trade route to Sembia, and House Silverthorn was offered the ruined Battlegate Castle where their Silver Hunters may guard against the creatures of the Vast Swamp. House Stormcrown however was not offered any lands, since the Crown still does not recognize Stormcrown as a Cormyrean noble house. None of the offers were taken, and all three houses have decided to remain in Cloudstone. If they are not gone within the seven days, then they shall be removed by force. Only Raymond Silverthorn and his wife Isolda agreed to leave Cormyr, despite Edmond’s pleas for his son to stay. They have now left Cloudstone, and are staying at the Lonesome Tankard in Eveningstar. The three Houses have appealed the royal decree, but as of today, the Crown officially announced that the decision stands - Cloudstone must be vacated within seven days. The Crown ensures the citizens of Cloudstone that they do not have anything to fear as long as they do not resist the transfer of power. Anyone who does interfere will be considered an insurrectionist, and dealt with accordingly. The citizens are now urged to leave Cloudstone for Eveningstar, where Lady Tessaril Winter has agreed to help them find a new home, and distribute monetary recompensation from the Crown to those who are not sworn to any of the Houses of Cloudstone, noble or otherwise. Those who cannot leave in time may instead seek shelter in the Cloudstone House of Healing, the Garden, or the Unicorn’s Door Inn. Likewise, Baron Edmond ensures that those in these designated safe houses have nothing to fear as long as they remain inside and does not interfere with the eventual defence of Cloudstone. With the exception of the House of Healing’s guardians, no weapons will be allowed to be brought into the safe houses. Anyone lingering outside, who is not a retainer, councillor, a guardsman, or otherwise aligned with Cloudstone, is escorted out of the gates. All of the Silverthorn miners who recently came to Cloudstone with the newly opened mine portal, as well as all construction workers working on the palace, have now left for Eveningstar. It is also said that the conspirators Hadriane Foya and Kassdan Morthir who orchestrated the murder of Fergus must be handed over to the Crown. As of yet, they still remain within Cloudstone. Reactions to these news have been strong and upsetting among the adventuring population, especially for those with friends in Cloudstone, who must now make a choice. Which side of Dead Man's Gate shall they stand on? Many letters have been sent to the Crown, requesting a different solution. Some have called the Crown’s decision disproportionate and rash, while also calling for the Cloudstone houses to stand down and be reasonable, and to accept the offers made. Some blame the situation on young king Azoun’s inexperience, while others point to corrupt War Wizards, or some third party manipulating from the shadows. Perhaps Zhentarim agents trying to destabilize the northern border, or even more fanciful tales of spiteful shapeshifters, or a vengeful reincarnation of Chop the Assassin? Yet others whisper that these were not the full reasons for the Crown’s decision, that surely, there must be more going on that has not been revealed. Some people say that it is a strategic mistake to bury Cloudstone, while others argue that Cormyr's northern border will be reinforced with a War Wizard outpost. Whatever the case, it would surely be madness to refuse the Crown? What could Lord Edmond hope to accomplish by defying a royal decree? What chances does a Shield Barony with a handful of men-at-arms and mage guards have against the might of the Cormyrean military force? Is there yet a chance for a peaceful solution? While people across the realm discuss these troubling questions, the Purple Dragons and War Wizards are now mustering in Eveningstar. Soon they shall march north over the mountains, and the Cloudstone situation shall be resolved, one way or another. Royal Mage Caladnei now requests aid from the RCMH, and any chartered adventurers willing to lend aid to the realm in this most murky of conflicts. However, she also gives a warning to not interfere. Either stand aside, or march with the Cormyr forces. The Cloudstone Shield Barony must, unfortunately, come to an end. // Event on Saturday the 7th of August. Starting around 8 PM London time. For those who want to march with the Purple Dragons, start in Eveningstar.
EDIT:
// The offer to play a guardsman still stands, and is expanded to include Mage Guards. However, I'm changing the offer to "event only". Guardsmen will be considered Guest NPCs and start at a higher level than I originally thought, but will only be playable for the remainder of the story, and may not be played afterwards. This is mostly intended for those who have been curious about Cloudstone, but may not have had an appropriate character, and want a quick way into the plot.
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RCMH
New Member
Official Guild Account
Posts: 15
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Post by RCMH on Aug 5, 2021 20:32:00 GMT -5
*Blade Sendry of the RCMH would arrive to the War Wizard Tower and hand over a brief letter to War Wizard Atticus. The document bears the classic Purple Dragon sigil of Cormyr and the seal of the RCMH. Upon departure, the trooper would be heard saying:
We Serve the Crown
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Post by Plotter on Aug 7, 2021 8:53:21 GMT -5
// Event today at 8 PM London time.
// This is a good time to join as an NPC guard... of course, you'll be utterly clueless, but chances are you'll die horribly, so that's okay.
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Post by Plotter on Aug 7, 2021 15:07:01 GMT -5
// At last.
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Nicoen
Proven Member
Posts: 225
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Post by Nicoen on Aug 7, 2021 16:17:59 GMT -5
//Joram's vibe
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Nicoen
Proven Member
Posts: 225
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Post by Nicoen on Aug 7, 2021 19:50:39 GMT -5
//Post-event feels.
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Post by Plotter on Aug 7, 2021 20:02:12 GMT -5
News from the north quickly spread throughout Cormyr that Royal Magician Caladnei led Cormyr's troops up to Cloudstone and negotiated with Baron Edmond in Dead Man's Pass. It is said there was a strange murmur, or chanting in the clouds, and then a sudden scream. The negotiations were then interrupted by green lightning strikes that killed Baron Edmond. Some say that this was part of Cloudstone's magical defences, the so called Storm Ward, but something went horribly wrong. Many of the skeletons that litter the path through Dead Man's Pass also animated and attacked the defenders, and the gigantic Earth Colossus and Air Colossus the Cloudstone Mage Guard had summoned turned on their masters. As attackers and defenders both fought this new enemy, the ground began to shake... and the Cloudstone Palace rose out of the ground. Surrounded by a storm cloud, it ascended into the sky, where it now remains floating. The dark cloud around it crackles with green lightning, and the rain keeps pouring down. After Edmond had fallen, it is said that the voice in the cloud spoke again, and said: "I am Uldor Stormcrown. And I claim the Cloudstone Throne." The Purple Dragons and War Wizards have now marched back to Eveningstar. What is to happen with Cloudstone, and those who are now trapped up there, remains uncertain... // Thanks to DM Flash and DM Jorteck for their support! Much appreciated!
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