Gray

9/12/17 Updated with new info.

One of the reasons I stopped going to events. I have not actually gone to an event and tried to initiate rp in years because this, among other things, is the norm. Now, I work from the shadows, gathering information on who to bother even trying to contact, and I make a move once I'm reasonabily satisfied it's worth pursuing, be it a FC, linkshell, or just a connection. It's the only way I've been able to survive as an rper this long. It sucks, but it's what I've felt I had to do to continue. The problem gets compounded because the small amount of competent roleplayers (that's roleplayers, not storytellers. There's a difference) around tend to be jaded by the sort of thing you encountered, and it becomes even harder for those who do venture out to find anything.

My only real problem with the game was the second half. Not because it went linear. Rather, because it was a slideshow. A cut up mess of disconnected nonsense. It was like reading a book, and just skipping around to random pages. I'm not even sure what happened.

I'm thinking the order status changes to shipped once a label is done. Not when it actually ships. I ordered within 3 minutes of the book being up. I got a tracking code sometime on Friday, which is, as yet, useless, as the package hasn't actually shipped, so there is nothing to track and it won't ship on the weekend.

9/20/16 Updated with new information.

Nice work with the event. 'Twas my first time at a story-go-round.

I can't speak for curent times, but I sorta stopped trying to rp randomly a few years back because of this, and other stuff. I've personally found public gatherings of rpers to be terrible terrible spots for rp for a few reasons. What I've done is stop trying completely. Instead, I look for specific environments/rpers that I feel would have better results. I really can't rp anymore unless I find an in along those lines. Even people who claim "walkups welcome", I don't approach. You might want to think about taking a similar approach. From my experience, this probably won't help you actually find rp, but it'll cut down the disappointment factor immensely. And just because we're on the subject, I have "walkups/spontaneous welcome" in my info. The last time I I got a bite, which was 4 or 5 months ago, we ended up rping for a couple of hours.

I'd be interested. I'm an Au'Ra rper without much at all in the way of rp connections these days. Would like an invite/spot on list. So I'm throwin gmy name in for whatever the current recruitment status is.

Here's some stuff of mine. Sorry if my camera work is bad. Chicken cordon bleu with white wine cream sauce Homemade french breads Crepes and jam with turkey bacon Blueberry cream cake...thing Chocolate cake with White chocolate vanilla buttercream frosting, and ganache King cake Baked potato soup Raspberry swirl cheesecake Pumpkin streusel bread pudding with vanilla butterscotch sauce https://scontent-a-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/t31.0-8/10863842_780247045345517_3794529408828730641_o.jpg[/img] Banana cream crunch wrap Strawberry banana pudding cheesecake And that's most of my food pics. I have a few more, but they won't post right, so for now, I'll close with some cats.

Sieg was glad that the bird had left. It was annoying having it sit on his head. When Clio introduced him, his raised a hand, and gave a small wave. He was relieved that his group was back together. Good to see you made it. He said to Siha. For now, all Sieg could really do was wait and hear out the plans, so, taking a spot by the door, h ecrossed his arms and did just that.

I've got my reasons for not waving it in everyones faces. It was just work. I doubt anyone in this group readily volunteered their life story when they joined up. What's the big deal about me not mentioning I was a merc? She may or may not be able to tell, but he was asking an honest question. Though she did have a point. There were plenty of people who'd brag about it. Was he hiding it? Ord id he truly not think it worth mentioning for whatever reason? Either way, it wasn't something he sought for honor and glory, though, for as much honor and glory as one could expect from a bunch of people who fight for money. We spent years fighting together, then at Cartenau, most of them died. That's what happens to warriors. They die. He continued to circle her slowly, for not, movin gonly a few steps before stopping again. Surely you know that, Tempest. You're clearly not just some pretty face that doesn't know about life and death. You're smart, and despite what happened back at the bridge, probably fairly strong, too. Even now, you've got your hand under there, probably ready to pull out a weapon. A dagger. A knife. Maybe a small sword. No need to worry, though. I'm not about to attack you or some crazy thing like that. I'm not an enemy. Sieg continued moving, until he was back in front of her, as she spoke more. Fair enough, Tempest. Yeah, I'm sure you all, as a group, have your own special niche that you fill. Your methods, connections, and, equipment, and affiliations that are unique to this group. And I'm sure those would be damn useful. But you're right. I need bodies. Well, not to say it that way. Makes it sound like I'm looking for sacrificial pawns. He stepped closer again, and looked down at her. His arms at his side, and his back straight. My mother lost her life fighting for the resistance against the Garlean empire when they first took over. Maybe we'd best put this conversation on hold. We're not exactly in the best place right now. We should stay vigilant.

Sieg shrugged and sighed a bit. It's got knots and there's dust in it. His posture, motions, and microexpressions, if she were good enough to look for that, would not indicate that he was outright lieing to her. Perhaps just that he was holding some stuff back, but then he had told her as much. Fair enough. Just laying it all out there. Makes it that much easier if it's not an issue for you, though, so we'll skip the personal stuff. Sieg listened in curiousity and interest when Clio started talking about lions. He was sure she had gone way off with that one, but then she brought up GREY ones. He smiled in amusement, and pointed at her as if to say "youuuuuu." The funny thing about that is, I'm not keeping any secrets about my time with the Grey Lion Mercenary company. I would have told ya, if you'd asked. But since you know about that, you must know there aren't many of them left. Wiped out at Cartenau. That was one contract we should've skipped. Sieg crissed his arms, and slowly began walking around her as she continued speaking, of suppor, and Ala Mhigo. He stopped once he got behind her, and then answered. Touched, Lady. Not to be a party pooper, but this group of yours. It doesn't amount to much in the grand scheme of things. It's my in. The Flames are what I need. Not a single unit. Not that I'd turn the support away. Just wanted you to know that this all goes beyond that level. He then turned toward her, and took a step closer. Why bring up Ala Mhigo? I've barely remember any of Gyr Abania. Had she really dug deep enough to find the full measure of his secret?

Show a guy some respect, will ya, buddy? Sieg sighed at the birds continued violation of his head. That aint to make a nest out of, ya know. Sieg listened as Clio explained the reason for her tension. He gave a half grin and a small nod, willing to accept that, not overly concerned that she avoided his question. Hmm, no, can't say, I do know. I haven't actually ran and hid from anything. Don't get me wrong. This aint some tough guy act. It's just the way things have gone. This here is all pretty new to me. Anyroad, it's fine if ya don't wanna talk about it. Just checkin up on a comerad is all. I won't push a lady to give what she doesn't want to. He let it go at that. His intentions were true. He wasn't asking with an ulterior motive. Even if he had planned on pressing the issue, the next words she spoke quickly caught his interest. Go on. Ask whatever you like. He took a few steps back as he replied. Her next words put him on the spot. He knew how best to deal with this situation. Those weren't questions. They were accusations. And it seems you've done some digging indeed. I guess it's pointless to dance around it. He believed she knew too much for any denial to work. No. It was better to come clean. At least, partially, and maintain a degree of trust. Better to get her in the know, and find out where she stood. Then deal with it based on her response. Alright then. You're right. I have practiced this salute, and a dozen others. So much so that those that created the motions would look like they were out of practice. I guess I got a little too good at it though, seeing how it raised suspicion. I wasn't honest when I joined you folks. I wasn't entirely dishonest either, though. I ended up here for two reasons. You know I sought you out specifically because an old buddy of mine is with the you all. That much I told you back then. Well, that's why I came to this group and not some other. But that's for personal reasons. I can give you my word on that, for all its worth. Before that, I was looking for an in with the Flames. Not to infiltrate their ranks, though, given recent events... Sieg raised his arms and looked around as if to say "look at the situation we're in." ...I'd say it's not infiltrators we need to worry about. Plenty enough problems on the inside. Anyroad, I'm with the Flames to make myself an asset. In hopes of gathering support for...well...nothing that you, or anyone in the group need to fear. So if you were thinking I was up to no good, I'm gonna have to disappoint you. There you have it. I'm with the Flames to gather support, and I'm with you for personal reasons. Outside of that, right now, I plan on doing whatever I can to see that as many of us get outta this alive as possible. Sieg stood there, his experession calm, and posture casual. He merely awaited her reply.

Sieg stopped dead when the bird landed on him. He raised a hand slowly, and spoke when it hopped on him. Getting screened by a parrot, now. He chuckled lightly, until his hand finally made it up top, close to the bird. He swatted at it lightly a few times. Good to know we check out ok. Sieg had by this point noticed Clios changing demeanor. He may not have been imperial frumentarii, but he had enough experience in the area by now to tell when something was bothering someone. He took a few steps closer. Everything alright there? You've gone and tensed up pretty quick.

Sieg chuckled as he went along with Clio. That adolescent display had reminded him of his time with the Gray Lions. Interesting relationship you keep with your contacts. He didn't mean the comment in any negative or judgemental way. He was just making an observation, and it was somewhat amusing. He had, by now, stashed his axe someplace. It was just a standard weapon, and there was no particular reason why it would draw suspicion, but one can never be too careful. If not suspicion, even attention could cause problems. His clothes were of typical hyur fashion. He opted out of the robe look. Somehow, walking around with a piece of clothing that shouted "Look at me! I'm hiding something!" didn't seem like the best idea. Not that I'm trying to tell you your business. Let's just hope emotion doesn't cloud judgement, yeah? On either part. If only there were some help Sieg could offer other than being muscle, but the contacts he -did- know of were back in Ala Mhigo, and he was in deep cover here in Eorzea. He didn't have direct contact with any other Ala Mhigan revolutionaries, and there was no time for him to follow the only paper trail that could connect him with his unknown contact here in Eorzea. The one man he -did- know of that was in the region was out of reach. What I'm getting at is...We can trust that one, right? He didn't seem overly suspicious. It came off more as just making sure.

((Yes that worked, Siha. Thanks.)) Sieg had to admit it to himself. He didn't like it. This group seemed like a good way to get a foothold because he knew someone already in it, but now, barely a week after joining, this situation popped up, and he had to trust people he didn't know at all. It's a hell of a first mission. So you want to lure him out and trap him, eh? It's a sound strategy, but making a move this quick does have a high risk factor. If it's like you think, and they won't expect retaliation this soon, we should be good. But we just don't know for sure. Sieg sighed a bit, though not from any particular frustration. More of an idle thing he did while thinking. But...it could pay off. He had addressed them both. He wouldn't be abl eto do anything more than be muscle. He didn't know them, and he couldn't risk exposing his contacts with things in this state. He was on his own, and at their mercy.

((Sorry about my late reply. Seems I no longer get automatic updates when a topic gets new posts.)) Sieghart had been standing in the same spot. His left arm crossed straight over his torso, his right elbow propped upon the left hand that rested at his ribs, and his right arm straight up as his index finger tapped at the side of his mouth. He waited until Siha spoke, rather than making some attempt at "getting to know you" chat. What...what did you make of all that? He replied, turning his head to look down to her. What I make of it is...we're in a bad spot. Captain's right. Splitting up is the way to go. We all know this was a setup from the word go, but we had to play along. A man's dead thanks to this farce. Occupational hazard is one thing, but when people die because we're being sent into a fake mission, it's a problem, orders or no. But at least this way, we can't all get killed if things go that bad. In situations like this, we have to put survival first. You understand that. Right? The insinuation was heavy, if not obvious. Mission botched from the go. A man dead. The company splitting up and possibly wanted men and women by now... If it came down to it, he meant to see to their well-being first, and their orders second. He was never an actual soldier. Just a mercenary. He didn't follow orders blindly, and he wanted to know where his current unit stood on it. ~~~ When Clio came over and spoke to them, he had no issues with what she said. I'm not planning on reporting you, if that's what you're worried about. I'd like to get to the Shroud ASAP, but right now, we all need to trust one another. What exactly have you got in mind?

All things considered, the mission had gone as well as one could have hoped. An obvious setup. There was no way around it. They weren't going to get through that one with perfect marks. The mission was a failure, for all that meant, being it was a shakedown. At least no one died. Now it was time to make their move, rather than just wait to react once again. Sieghart was content to listen to the captains assessment of the situation, and their new orders. They were splitting up. Clio and Siha would be his comerades from this point on. Once the debriefing was finished, and they had their orders, Sieg stepped out to await Siha and Clio. He'd have to wait awhile to share another drink with his old friend Raimy.

For Garrett, because of his calm nature, pleasant attitude, desire to teach, and willingess to help, no on ewould suspect he's a specially trained combatant, and fought at Cartenau. For Sieghart, being a big highlander withbackground aboard a pirate ship, and the better part of a decade with a mercenary group, it might seem odd that he's with the Ala Mhigan resistance, and that his real occupation is paranormal investigator.

*points* NEW! Attack! ... ... ... Yeah...thought not. Anyway! Welcome. If it's rp you're looking for, I'm usuall ylogged in just sort of...standing around. I play black mage as my main if you want to discuss casting spells that blow things up. Also, get off my wall.

Axel gave a faux salute, flourishing his hand at the end, though he meant to follow through with whatever he was told to do. "Aye aye, Boss." He he answered. He looked at the others, and wodnered just what the hell he was gettin ginto, exactly. But it really didn't matter. He had nothing to lose. Then he looked back to his "boss", his expression changing from a careless, oblivious one to a more determined, expectant one. Almost as if he was looking forward to it.

Caer sighed, and shook his head in mild frustration. "Check your ledgers. You'll find my name near the bottom, under "supplier". The name is Caereyn. You'll also find the prices for the goods I bring in that are funneling up through your orginization are higher than what they are valued. Quite a bit higher, in fact. You stand only to protect your own interests. And mine. Or...I could cut this supply line completely. I'm sure one of the rival gangs would be glad to pick it up."

Caer raises his hand as if signaling for Zhi to stop, and he spoke directly to Hitchens. "She will be out of your hair soon enough. As will I, hopefully. I do not intend to take up much of your time." He motioned to Ruru. "As the fellow says, I have a...concern, in regards to a specific line of goods passing through the area. I've gone over the books, and the transactions stop in the upper middle, to lower upper links in the chain. That puts the break in the line somewhere in the the Handers portion of the chain. This is bad for business. My own, and for the Handers as well. Have you not noticed any discrepancy at all in your own ledgers?" Caer asked, calmly, not attempting to make a scene or assert any sort of authority.

((Go ahead and skip me for now. I feel that it would be more appropriate for the NPC to speak again in direct response to Ruru.