[Sawrock]

I just want to mention three things, myself. The amount of mechanations needed for the event that happened would be 140 (one per five feet, if they stood in a box-formation), or 280 (two per five feet, which is more likely). I don't believe it would possible to get that many mechanations from an organization that did such an event.

Second, in general for events, though, not having enough time to plan or make the event should never be an issue. Always give yourself ample time, whether as a player asking for help with making an event, or as a GM making an event. Don't announce the date for the event until you have everything ready. If you are not ready by the date, put the event due later. An event done badly at the correct time is not as good as an event done well at a later date.

Third, I dislike railroading. I have done it myself in the past, although accidentally. The vampire attack on Oniga involved a boss that wasn't likely beatable by players, and that's not fair for who participates. There is other methods of railroading, but despite the source, in general it does not have the interactivity we should expect from a roleplaying game.