Post by Marcellus Hollaway on Mar 24, 2013 20:30:06 GMT -5
Marcellus' home in Noxus
A quiet knock signified the arrival of mail to one of Marcellus Holloway's many homes, this one in Noxus, a comfortable quarter a few streets from the Ivory Ward. A butler answered the door. Both men bowed low to each other, the messenger extending a single letter towards the servant, upon which the recipient was clearly designated in a practiced hand, "M. Holloway."
It was early yet. The letter, printed on heavy parchment and sealed with the official green-wax symbol of Noxian High Command, would be delivered to the house's master over breakfast.
Master Hollaway, It is the great pleasure of the High Command cabinet to invite you to Darkbourne Hold for a private luncheon. Please be present at the Darkbourne Hold gates promptly at 1300 hours. You will need nothing but your person. We look forward to receiving you.
ObDom: Oculi corvus sunt vigilantem. Grand General J. Swain
The final words were penned in a different hand: austere, deliberate, signed by The Master Tactician himself.
Marcellus smiled as he read the message. He remembered giving his contact information during the speech following Brand's capture. It would seem that Swain has decided the time has finally come to make use of his services. Hopefully they could come to an agreement, perhaps for more than just weapons.
At Darkbourne Hold
Marcellus arrived at the skull shaped castle, dressed in his usual black attire and cape. While it clearly showed he had wealth and power, it did not have much noticeable about it, just how he liked it, nothing too specific with which he could be easily recognized.
He gave his pistol, ammunition, and knife to the bodyguard he had with him. The guard was somewhat transparent and seemed as though he was a specter thanks to the stealth device in his armor. Marcellus' man waited by the gate as Marcellus himself walked up to the guard at the entrance of the manor and presented the letter he had been sent. He had arrived at exactly 1300 hours, not a second sooner or later.
"Grand General Swain has requested I speak with him."
Beneath his helm, the guard's brows shot up. He skimmed the letter through the bars, noted the green wax seal and the chief of state's signature, then bowed low and motioned for his comrades to draw open the gate. He walked backwards as the clink and clank of iron chains drew the portcullis open, permitting Marcellus entry to the grand estate.
"More visitors every day." Senka thought silently to herself, her sapphire eyes looking over Marcellus as the gates opened... however, Marcellus would not see sapphire eyes, he would see four piercing red ones that her helmet gave off. "The Grand General certainly is a busy one...". Senka would approach Marcellus as the guard who opened the gate for him went back to his post. Soon, two more Raedsel would come and stand at either side of her. Crossing their hands over their chests, they bowed in unison to the visitor before turning in unison and leading him into Darkbourne hold.
The Dining Hall was eloquently decorated, food lined the tables. The silverware was of the finest, a long with the plates and cups. Senka did not bother to look around, nor did her two others. Once they reached the room, they all split apart and took up statue-like positions, one at each wall of the room. Their swords resting at their sides, for now.
Post by Marcellus Hollaway on Mar 24, 2013 21:46:04 GMT -5
Marcellus bowed his head to the guards as they bowed to him, no reason to not be humble. He followed the guards, analyzing everything about them as they walked, their gaits, armor, weapons. He also observed the rest of the environment, but did not move his head. Any information he could gather may be useful. Information was power.
They entered the dining hall. Marcellus looked around for a few seconds, then walked over and took a seat at the table and waited for Swain to arrive. A maid walked up to him and offered to get him a drink, an offer which he politely declined, he tended not to eat or drink while discussing business.
"Drugs, crime, and secrets: our stock, trade, and currency, with which we buy power."
Post by The Master Tactician on Mar 24, 2013 22:42:21 GMT -5
Only a few moments passed before The Master Tactician himself appeared upon the threshold of the dining room. In he strode, cane, step, step, the fourth Raedsel in his tier of ever-present guards following in his wake. He closed his luminous eyes, inclined his head ever-so-slightly in polite greeting of his guest. At his shoulder, his hellish bird tilted her head to one side, three eyes affixed upon the black-clad man at the table. "Marcellus Hollaway. I appreciate your promptness."
The Grand General took a few uneven steps nearer to the table, leant his cane against it and extended his scarred hand to be shaken. "A pleasure to finally make your acquaintance." It was a businesslike gesture: firm, brief, appropriate. The fourth Raedsel pulled out Swain's chair before taking up his post upon the only empty wall of the room, still and silent as a statue, the eyes of his enchanted helm gleaming through the dark in echo of his general's and the fiendish fowl's.
Slowly, arduously, a hand on either arm of the chair, the Grand General lowered himself into his seat. The slightest flicker of exertion passed over his gnarled features: the merest flash of a grimace, nothing more. "Let's talk business, shall we?" Crimson eyes flashed with the flame of their owner's grim machinations. The slightest of smirks formed behind his shroud as he interlaced his fingers on the table before him.
Post by Marcellus Hollaway on Mar 25, 2013 21:17:53 GMT -5
Marcellus stood to shake the Grand General's hand, returning the businesslike gesture. He also returned the head bow, then settled back into his chair, pleased that Swain kept the pleasantries to a minimum. They both knew what was really important, and it sure as hell wasn't formalities.
"The pleasure is all mine, Grand General."
Marcellus sat down after Swain had.
"I am glad my contact information reached you. I assume that you were informed of the things I deal with. You have publicly announced that you wish to increase Noxus' military power, I believe that I can assist with that by supplying powerful hextech weaponry and other techmaturgy. If you are willing, for a small risk of a few men, you can have them test some of our more experimental weapons, if they work, you will be able to buy them at a much lower price than other customers; a small risk for a high reward I would say. I also provide other products and services. I am confident that you already know a fair amount about me, or at least my organization, since it is always a wise strategy to have knowledge of underworld dealings."
Post by The Master Tactician on Mar 30, 2013 18:59:31 GMT -5
A very slight smile crept over the Grand General's face. Luminous eyes lingered over his guest as Marcellus spoke. The crime lord observed propriety. He seemed cultured, respectful, eloquent, collected--at least in appearance. And appearance was what mattered. Swain allowed the guest to complete his pitch, scarred hands still folded before him, before he himself spoke.
"I am well aware of your organization and its purpose--and its prowess--Hollaway." A twinkle of machination flickered in the general's gaze. He lifted his brows. "But I did not ask you here to take something from you." The smile broadened, deepening the wrinkles on his face. "I asked you here to give you a gift."
The Master Tactician allowed silence to follow his proclamation. He watched his guest carefully for any indication of his reaction to the simple statement. Every motion Marcellus made, every expression that flickered over his dignified features, every glint in his eye served to further the Grand General's assessment. If this was to be his face in Piltover, it must always be pristine, poised, groomed to suit his purposes.
Post by Marcellus Hollaway on Mar 31, 2013 0:25:39 GMT -5
Marcellus raised his eyebrows in surprise, this was unexpected. Whether or not this 'gift' was welcome had yet to be determined. Based upon the General's analyzing gaze, however, he had a feeling as to what it might be. "A gift for me, what have I done to deserve this honor?" He smiled, it would seem to be in pleasant surprise that was quite genuine, the only way one could make it more convincing would be to use something else to further enhance it, most likely by affecting the minds of those observing. His face would always seem to be that of a kind, sophisticated gentleman. Though there would be a tiny, very well hidden and almost undetectable glint of the ruthless, calculating megalomaniac Marcellus really was, but it would be masked to many as a one of determination, and willingness to do what must be done.
"Drugs, crime, and secrets: our stock, trade, and currency, with which we buy power."
Post by The Master Tactician on Mar 31, 2013 0:41:19 GMT -5
"Established yourself," Swain answered simply. "Proven yourself worthy of my attention." Eyes narrowed in further scrutiny. The glints of Marcellus' true demeanor did not escape the man who could assess his opponents and allies alike on sight. In fact, these qualities, hidden behind his guest's mask of poise, were so apparent in part because they echoed the general's own. And, after his discourse with Singed, The Master Tactician expected no less. He seemed pleased as he continued.
"The strong thrive, Hollaway. The strong claim what is rightfully theirs. Power." At his shoulder, Beatrice clicked her beak in accord. The true nature of this offer lay yet unspoken, but Swain bid his time, in part to continue his assessment, to observe his potential ally's methods not only socially, but fundamentally. He would allow the man another chance to speak before he laid the promised bounty out before him.
Post by Marcellus Hollaway on Mar 31, 2013 1:15:41 GMT -5
"I must say, you have piqued my interest. I am guessing you are proposing some sort of alliance. I would not be opposed to that. And I do not betray alliances." Honesty would be clear in that last statement, Marcellus was just as pleased as having an alliance with someone in power as he was controlling something directly. Power in the hands of his allies would not be used against him, so long as they did not betray him, and he had influence over what they controlled through the alliance. He suspected Swain would not betray him if he proved he was more worthwhile than those who might replace him.
"Drugs, crime, and secrets: our stock, trade, and currency, with which we buy power."
Post by The Master Tactician on Mar 31, 2013 2:11:26 GMT -5
The Grand General nodded evenly, blazing eyes shut for just a moment as he accepted Hollaway's statement. To any who had been paying attention, the rise of Noxus with Swain at its helm was readily apparent. Betrayal at this point would be sheer foolishness. There was still so much to gain.
"I am curious," Swain proceeded lightly, as though the two were discussing nothing more substantial than the weather. "After the status of your Piltovian citizenship." The food upon the table grew colder as their discourse continued, mere decor, more ambiance than sustenance to two men hungry only for power.
Post by Marcellus Hollaway on Mar 31, 2013 16:03:38 GMT -5
"I am still a citizen of Piltover, and known as a well-respected businessman and active member of the community. None know of the actual business I conduct. I am aware that some within the city want me to run in the parliamentary elections." He spoke as plainly as Swain did, though deep down he was becoming more and more interested in the proposition. An alliance with Noxus would give him significantly more power. And it would likely ensure more protection for him if he did decide to take up a political position in Piltover.
"Drugs, crime, and secrets: our stock, trade, and currency, with which we buy power."
Post by The Master Tactician on Mar 31, 2013 17:27:12 GMT -5
A satisfied expression crinkled the corners of the Grand General's eyes. Marcellus had answered his simple question--and plenty more. If he was lingering on the metaphorical precipice of politics already, it would take little effort to encourage him into the plunge. "And what if I told you there were those in this city who would like to see the same." Machiavellian flame flashed in Swain's eyes, punctuating the gravity of his offer. "Myself included."
He leaned back in his seat, set his elbows on the armrests of his high-backed chair, pressed his fingertips together in a star before his golden breastplate. Gilded sleeves fell back to reveal his mottled hands. With his hands suspended, the tremor of his body became readily apparent, but despite the frailty of his form, the intensity of his regal aura never faltered.
"I want to employ you, Hollaway, and your people. And, in return for your loyal service," his smile broadened. "I will set you up over Piltover."
Post by Marcellus Hollaway on Mar 31, 2013 17:59:59 GMT -5
Marcellus' smiled at Swain's proposition, while he preferred to have others who he controlled take the positions of power, leaving himself to control from behind the scenes, personal control over such a position would likely be necessary. Swain had requested his loyalty, even though he would technically be under Swain's control, he knew he would still have most, if not all of his original power, and gain even more. He could not beat the General, so he should join him. Besides, Swain is old and frail, Marcellus knew that he would naturally outlive him, given his fitness and enhancements, and his time of servitude will pay off, especially when Swain dies, either of age, or from his profession, but Marcellus would not be responsible for that.
In the end, this situation was a win-win, Marcellus was glad to have any assistance in his rise to power. "I foresee the formation of a beautiful alliance, Grand General, one that will unite Valoran under the control of those who possess true strength."
Post by The Master Tactician on Apr 1, 2013 21:13:41 GMT -5
"That is the ambition, the ideal." Swain lifted his chin as he began to lay the details out before his guest. "Your part in this is straightforward, at least initially. You will appear to take up permanent residence in Piltover, send the message that you are a loyal patriot. You will run in the upcoming May elections for Progressive Party seats. Be open about your intent: a breath of fresh air to the public."
"You will uphold Progressive Party ideals with but one exception: your neutrality on the League of Legends, given their recent failure to contain their charges and protect the peoples of Valoran." The Grand General lifted a single gnarled finger in punctuation of this exception. Each statement held purpose, each command held importance, but this was particularly worthy of note. "You will win the election. Whatever aid you need in your campaign I shall provide. And after that," he raised his brows, crimson eyes flashing with purpose. "We will assist you in winning the hearts of the people. And in two and a half years, you will find yourself in the seat of Prime Statesman." Here, he paused, allowing Marcellus to take in what he had laid out thus far. It was all straightforward, all within Marcellus' reach--at least, on the surface.
Post by Marcellus Hollaway on Apr 2, 2013 21:41:37 GMT -5
Marcellus smiled and nodded in agreement, a sound plan indeed. The Institute was a barrier to be overcome, removing more cities from the League would make things easier, now that he had further support from Noxus, it would be cost effective. "I understand perfectly. The League has shown quite a large degree of incompetence. I have already formulated a plan to get one who I deem fit to become elected Prime Statesman, but lacked the resources to fully implement it. Now, with our combined resources, it is easily within reach. It's time for things to change in Piltover. The current system will soon be too flawed. The Progressives will lead the city out of the dark times to come." He gave a winning smile to Swain. "I look forward to conducting this business."
"Drugs, crime, and secrets: our stock, trade, and currency, with which we buy power."
Welcome to Maelstrom, Original Characters, Summoners and Champions alike. We are a divergent setting roleplay forum for the ever-popular MOBA by Riot, League of Legends. This means we are based in Riot canon, but your characters' actions can have a real, lasting impact on the world. Together, the Maelstrom community endeavors to bring the League of Legends setting and characters to life through collaborative storytelling and meaningful development. We welcome you along for the ride.
Hang out in a citystate, visit the Institute of War, explore the uncharted recesses of Runeterra. Whatever you decide, good luck, have fun and happy writing.
hello new skin yes. gonna work out some kinks but let me know what you guys think. it's not all that flashy but i didn't really like the tabs so the side bar is back. oh and the cbox has also made it's appearance. -rurin.
Maelstrom was created by Swain. Written content is copyrighted to their creators on this site. The skin is created by Wolf and mini-profile template by Kuroya of Gangnam Style. The board and thread remodel is by Kagney and has been heavily edited by Rurin. League of Legends is owned by Riot Games. Maelstrom does not claim ownership to any images used unless stated otherwise.
cbox
Chat box has been removed for the time being. Please contact me at Wyerden@gmail.com, or skype name DearCryophoenix with for any questions or concerns.
