I'm mostly done with my character--check out my profile to see if that's what you were thinking on displaying character info and background. I need to finish up purchasing his equipment, and also let the background ruminate a bit to see if there's anything to add.
I'm mostly done with my character--check out my profile to see if that's what you were thinking on displaying character info and background. I need to finish up purchasing his equipment, and also let the background ruminate a bit to see if there's anything to add.
Check your email when you have a chance, I will be sending some thoughts on your character shortly.
Check your email when you have a chance, I will be sending some thoughts on your character shortly.
Will do...
Hey Utak,
Shepherd Veirax will tentatively be my character name/avatar. Click on the name to find his stats. I still have to enter his equipment and then add his background, appearance and personality (much of which I already have in my head). I should have everything finished over the next few days. Let me know if any changes are required.
Cheers...
-- TwiceBorn
Little FYI for all of you. If you want to see who we our "real" characters are you can check out our myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/kguthrie. Would love to see the other side of all of you! Plus our kids are cute!
Hey thanks for sharing the site. I wish I had a clue on how to do that. I have a rabbit named Arwen. I wonder where that name came from?:)
Hey Utak,
Shepherd Veirax will tentatively be my character name/avatar. Click on the name to find his stats. I still have to enter his equipment and then add his background, appearance and personality (much of which I already have in my head). I should have everything finished over the next few days. Let me know if any changes are required.
Cheers...
-- TwiceBorn
Great name. Fits the setting well.
Hey, using an alias...now that's a good idea! I've got one going for Erian.
Utak, the initial map of Erian's Glen is headed your way!
This is my general stats for my character. I will add the rest of it soon as well as the background.
Dreamweaver picked out Arwen's name (imagine that):)
Got my character sheet done and will finish the background tomorrow.
I really wanted to have more finished at this point, but this is what I have typed out so far for your reading pleasure. Remember to check out the awsome map that Erian_7 provided to get a better idea of where locations fall.
About Rutania: (Broad Overview of the Locations)
Rutania and a few other small areas are well isolated.
Skyward Mountains: This mountain range is a solid wall to Rutania’s west. From starting in the northwest corner, this mountain range flows south for about 200 miles until the mountains expand toward the east, making an ‘L’ shape. Then the range flows again for about another 200 miles until the range juts back toward the west, making a backward ‘L’ shape. Then the range continues, for an unknown distance, into a dense unexplored jungle recently labeled “The Vines”, until officially named. There is about 100 miles of semi-explored country between the shift back to the west and the jungle labeled “The Vines”. In this area, Erian’s Glen is located.
Kagen’s Range: (Named after Kagen Ru) This mountain range is a solid wall to Rutania’s North. It runs in a relatively straight easterly direction. The range runs into Rutania’s Eastern border called the Voyager’s Ocean.
Voyager’s Ocean: Rutania’s eastern boundary . It runs relatively parallel to the Skyward Mountains to the west. It is home to the Camdara Islands which will be discussed later.
Dense Jungle: Known as “The Vines” until officially labeled, it is the current southern border of Rutania. It runs relatively parallel to Kagen’s Range, and is currently unexplored. Erian’s Glen was originally set up as an outpost to delve into the jungle. These explorations have mainly been put on hold because of the explosion of industry through the mining & lumber efforts from Erian’s Glen.
Halig River & Halig Lake: Also called the Holy River and the Holy Lake. The Halig River is what Kagen Ru followed, and when he arrived at Halig Lake, he cast his spell and the Holy City of Cein appeared.
The Holy City of Cein: This city is ancient and now considered the salvation of current civilization. Locked away in the Great Temple, also opened by Kagen Ru, are thought to be tens of thousands of inscriptions regarding the Holy Pantheon written by a lost civilization. Even after 1200 years, only a few of the inscriptions in the Great Temple have been deciphered and understood. These inscriptions hold the knowledge for arcane and divine magic It is believed that the Great Temple houses many levels hidden beneath the surface, and these levels hide more inscriptions. Only the first level is open to visitors. Even then, to be admitted at all is considered an honor and privilege. To study at the Great Temple, you must already be a well known scholar, or know somebody high in the theocracy. There are other levels open, but only high ranking church officials and church sanctioned explorers have delved these passages.
About 10 years ago, the third level was discovered. When this secret door was open, sentient constructs of wood and metal came forward to defend the temple. These constructs held their attack when they noticed the holy symbols of Cein decorating weapons, armor, shields, and jewelry held by the explorers. Apparently, these ‘Guardians’ were created by the lost civilization as protectors of the temple. Once the Great Temple was rediscovered, its doors reopened, and there was no threat detected, the binding powers from temple to guardian dissolved , giving this race sentience and free will (Guardians use the stats for warforged from the Eberron CS). Every month new areas of level 3 are discovered, bringing more Guardians into the world.
Lots more to come.
Cheers,
Utak
Looking great, Utak!
As a newbie to pbp I am struggling with how to use the BBCode spoiler tag so that my alias profile matches Erian's.
Could someone explain this step by step please.
Meanwhile Utak - my alias profile under Lady Janas is pretty much waiting for your input.
Looking great, Utak!
I spent all my spare time on this, due to the great work you and Erian have put in on the background of Rutania and the map.
Well Done
As a newbie to pbp I am struggling with how to use the BBCode spoiler tag so that my alias profile matches Erian's.
Could someone explain this step by step please.
Meanwhile Utak - my alias profile under Lady Janas is pretty much waiting for your input.
Two months ago, I was just learning PbP. I remember having the same question. Ahh, Nostalgia:)
Meanwhile Utak - my alias profile under Lady Janas is pretty much waiting for your input.
I will hopefully look at it tonight after I get the information regarding Rutania to all of you. The wife is in New York on business, so I have the house to myself. I should be able to get alot more done tonight.
A few quick things I noticed:
Also, on religion. The Worship Halls (churchs) are all designed like minature Great Temples. I will explain this more in my post regarding Erian's Glen. We are using the D&D pantheon in the player's handbook. All of the deities with a good or neutral alignment are available
Cheers,
Utak
thanks for the assist
time for bed as it is 11.15pm and my guess is our son will want me or my wife at about 2.00am
cheers
Glad you got the BBcode worked out there, Lady Janas!
Erian_7, you are quite the awesom map maker...
Can I enlist you to transfer one from old paper sketch to cool computer graphics for me?
Heh, thanks! Making a basic electronic sketch is pretty easy--takes me about 30 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the map. I'm working on prettying up the Erian's Glen map, but I can probably whip out a basic sketch in between some meetings tomorrow, so go ahead and shoot me the file.
|
Glad you got the BBcode worked out there, Lady Janas!
Heh, thanks! Making a basic electronic sketch is pretty easy--takes me about 30 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the map. I'm working on prettying up the Erian's Glen map, but I can probably whip out a basic sketch in between some meetings tomorrow, so go ahead and shoot me the file.Erian_7, you are quite the awesom map maker...
Can I enlist you to transfer one from old paper sketch to cool computer graphics for me?
It will take me a day or two to dig it out of the archives...
Here are more detail goodies on Rutania. I hope it reads well, my eyes are tired.
Continuation . . .
The Holy City of Cein: (Regarding the Great Temple and worship abroad) There are no individual churches in Rutania. All temples, called ‘Worship Halls’, are made in the likeness of the Great Temple. When possible, a Worship Hall has the same outside design as the Great Temple, but on a miniature scale. Whether the outside resembles the Great Temple or not, every Worship Hall resembles the shrine area located on the 1st level of the Great Temple, near the entrance. The shrine area starts as along hallway, with branches that lead into individual praying areas for the different deities. Even the smallest Worship Hall, is a room with individual shrines along the wall. Each with a bench for prayer.
Aidens Wall: Hamia and Freya Aiden, sisters and wisewomen for their tribe, were part of the first grouping of followers of Kagen Ru. Kagen Ru died 2 full moons after finding Cein. During the time prior to his death, he shared with Hamia and Freya as much knowledge as he could. Through his guidance and their wisdom, Cein was never more than a holy site. It was their leadership that determined a settlement would be established directly to the south. In their honor, the settlement was named Aiden.
Over the years the populations grew and skills like stonework, architecture, and engineering were mastered. When an inscription was found describing ‘walking devils’, it was decided to build a huge stone wall around the now large city. The large city was then renamed Aidens Wall.
Aidens Wall has a strong agriculture industry in the surrounding farmland. It is also the center of the major trade route. It is the home of the Republican Theocracy and the Holy Senate which governs Rutania, and watches over the Holy City of Cein.
Sibley: This is a simple settlement surrounded by agriculture. As Aidens Wall grew, farmland was getting spread farther away. Eventually, this area was settled as an outpost for merchants to purchase and transport crops along the trade routes.
Sceotend: Sceotend was established along the southern trade route. This particular area has a large growth of Sceot trees. The wood from these trees is used to make masterwork bows. Also, imported from Stedman, are Stedman Penda fish products. These products contain small quantities of the magical element kotkelum. When these products and the sceot wood are mixed properly, an arrow can be made that covers twice the distance of a normal arrow. (more on kotkelum later) (Stedman Penda fish are different from the regular Penda fish found in the river around the town of Sheldon. It is believed that when the Hrani River merges with the Penda River, south of Sheldon, but north of Stedman, the Hrani River feeds the Penda River and the Penda fish small quantities of Kotkelum, changing their essence.)
Rodor: Shadowd by Rodor’s Peak. Rodor is a mining settlement delving into Rodor’s Peak to excavate raw minerals and gems. It is also believed, according to partial deciphering of certain inscriptions in the Great Temple, that there is an ancient, hidden sister enclave to Cein containing special types of inscriptions regarding new magic.
Erian’s Glen: Our starting point. Mining and Lumber are major industries. Founded by Danaus Erian about 300 years age, it was originally established as an outpost for explorers to document the land and pilgrims to venture south and east into the forest and west into the Skyward Mountains. It was at this juncture that the first goblins were encountered. First the pilgrims tried to greet the goblins, but they were slaughtered. It was later determined that these goblins were what the early inscriptions referred to as “Walking Devils”. Eventually, many of the explorers formed a group called GoldLeaf. GoldLeaf was named after the beautiful Goldleaf trees that are dominant throughout the area. GoldLeaf wants to work with the lumber industry to help the forest survive and also allow the economy to grow which will aid the Age Of Discovery and Exploration. GoldLeaf also took to the task of fighting off the goblins.
still more to come ...
I hope everyone is getting a feel for the world. Let me know if there are questions.
Cheers,
Utak
Coming along nicely. This'll definitely help me tweak my character background.
Hey guys,
I'm kind of stuck on character ideas. Is there anything we're particularly missing as far as the group goes?
Hey Utak,
I have added a first draft of my PC background to my profile. I'm pasting it here for the sake of convenience. Let me know what you think... perhaps I've painted certain races and their practices in a way that is inconsistent with your view of the world?
If you approve it, there's stuff in there that might be of relevance to the backgrounds of Lady Janas (if she ends up playing an elf) and Dreamwalker (please wait for Utak's approval before reading!).
Warning... it's quite long!
Every half century, elves from Hrafn Hani Isleif come to Seward to engage in the festival of Kagen's Binding. Although the elves of the forest generally remain reclusive by human standards, they do respect the principles that Kagen Ru stood for, and honour the alliances that have led to long lasting peace and progress among the folk of Rutania, and that is what they celebrate with their neighbours on the plateau during Kagen's Binding (also known as the Mating). In addition to mainaining trade and diplomatic relations with the other folk of the realm, the elves (and nearby humans) believe that ritualistic interbreeding is the key to harmonious relations. The offspring of such trysts increase blood ties and mutual understanding between elves and humans, and many ultimately become ambassadors to the world at large. Children of mixed blood are seen as a blessing from Kagen Ru. When born of a human mother in Seward, they typically are raised communally, by the entire village. After a a decade or so spent in the company of humans, they are sent to live with their elven cousins (and vice versa), who have a decidedly different approach to child rearing. For their part, the humans also view this interbreeding as a step towards increasing the longevity of the human race, which shall be essential towards the accomplishment of the great tasks that Kagen Ru set out for them to do.
I spent the first fifteen years of my life among the elves, and the last ten on the outskirts of Seward, near Mord Mottal. A few years after my introduction to and upbringing among my human kin, I became a shepherd, wandering the lofty meadows of Mord Mottal with my goats. One day, the village elders introduced me to Gwydion Halden, Esteemed Pathfinder of the Far Walker. After asking me a few questions and conferring with the village elders, the Esteemed Pathfinder determined that I demonstrated the potential to become a great servant of Fharlanghn, the Far Walker. Since my 25th birthday, I have become not only a shephered of goats, but a shepherd of people as well. Also, Gwydion has taught me that I have the skills and attributes required to become an ambassador not only among men and elves, but among the other peoples of Rutania as well. This helped me understand my place among the peoples of the realm, for I must confess that up to that point, I felt a little bit lost and unsure of myself, as many half-elves do; and to that end, Gwydion and his brethren in the order of the Far Walker further broadened my mind by instructing me in the tongues of dwarves and the 'walking devils.'
I am proud to have been selected by Gwydion and my village elders to walk the path of the Dweller on the Horizon. I believe it to be the path truest to Kagen Ru's intentions. It is the Far Walker who reveals the path out from the darkness and towards the light of Pelor, at sunrise. All roads, and all faiths, lead to Kagen Ru... and the Far Walker maketh the roads that all faiths follow to their source. In his wisdom and with his open mind, the Far Walker maketh few enemies among peoples far and near, human and other... for all folk, good and evil, walk their own paths, and he walketh with them. He protects noblemen, commoners and poor folk alike along their journeys, and provides an escort and spiritual nourishment to those who would travel great distances, through territories both peaceful and hostile. He is humble, as are his shepherds. The Far Walker judgeth not, but seeks to understand, to build bridges between peoples and cultures. And thus, his servants are often called upon to mediate between parties to a dispute.
During my first year as Errant Shepherd, Gwydion taught me how to unlock the gifts that our divine patron hid deep within the souls of all. He led me on journeys near and far. Until now, I have faced little danger on my travels, but have always revelled in the freedom, in the wondrous sights and experiences brought by each new day, and in the new faces I have met at every bend in the road; in the knowledge and comfort that where I lay my head is home. The Far Walker has a grand destiny in store for me -- whether o'er yonder, far beyond the Vines, across the Skyward Peaks, or at the end of the Voyager's Ocean, I know not -- but I do know that Kagen Ru and I shall join paths in some remote place. This the Far Walker has shown me in dreams too real to be mere conjurations of a tired mind.
I have just completed my first trip ever to Erian's Glen, having been part of an escort for a large group of pilgrims eager to visit the southern frontier of the realm... the edge of destiny... of course, our arrival in Erian's Glen is but a mere thread in the tapestry that is the neverending journey...
If you like the background, Utak, might I recommend the following for my character...
Physical description coming up next...
By the way, I'm really impressed by the feel and flavour of your world. Very original! You've been putting alot of effort into this, and it shows. Thank you! Can't wait to start playing...
|
|
Hey guys,
I'm kind of stuck on character ideas. Is there anything we're particularly missing as far as the group goes?
Well, I’m not in this game, but if I can offer my thoughts… so far it looks like the group has a Knight, a Beguiler, a Ranger, a Druid, and a Cleric. And at this stage it looks like Valegrim might be tending towards a Rogue.
Being in such a big party means that most of the essentials are already covered, and probably gives you some freedom and flexibility to play whatever you like!
The Knight probably takes the melee tank role, the Beguiler covers, to some extent, arcane magic, “rogue” skills and charisma based skills, the Ranger looks like a ranged combat expert, and between he and the Druid they have the outdoor and survival skills covered, and the Druid and Cleric combination take care of divine magic and healing, and can probably back up the Knight in melee to some extent. If the sixth character does end up being a Rogue, that will complement the Beguiler in the skill-monkey role.
If there is a “weak point” in the group, I’d say it’s that they lack an arcane blaster type – no one to cast the magic missiles, fireballs etc. If you wanted to fill in a gap in the party, perhaps a sorcerer or a wizard (possibly an evocation specialist) might be in order? Also, as far as race, it appears that most of the party is human, elven, or half elven. You might wish to choose one of these races to “fit in” or choose something else to add some variety and individuality.
Having said all that, I do think the group already seems quite flexible, so I’ll say again, you can probably play whatever you want to try out. These big groups are often a good opportunity to play things that you’ve always wanted to try out, or tend not to be optimal choices in a smaller group.
RPG Superstar 2011 Top 32
|
Oh, and let me just say, this looks like shaping up to be an awesome game. Utak, I really like the setting and it looks like you’ve put a lot of effort into it. And there is a really good group of players, with interesting and thoughtful characters.
I’ll enjoy following the game!
I agree with Mothman, nicely done. Keep the posts coming.
Hey guys,
I'm kind of stuck on character ideas. Is there anything we're particularly missing as far as the group goes?
I generally agree with Mothman's assessment. A rogue, wizard, or perhaps even an extra fighter/tank would be useful... but again, don't base your choice on what the party needs. Read Utak's excellent background stuff, and base your character on whatever images/ideas first pop in your head from that, even if your character concepts have already been "covered" by other players...
Amergin - I concur with Mothman and Twiceborn about a fighter or wizard. Something that is a cross between Conan and Merlin please.
Ta
Hey guys,
I'm kind of stuck on character ideas. Is there anything we're particularly missing as far as the group goes?
I totally agree with the above posts. If Valegrim does choose a rogue, then the only light area would be arcane powerhouse. Again, play what you want. I want you to be into your character. Do not feel obligated to fill a spot. We have a vast collection of skills at the moment, so the party can already fill most roles.
Feel free to ask detailed questions about classes and races. I have only given a very broad description so far, if there is something that I could add to assist, I would be glad to.
Hey Valegrim, have you decided on rogue, or have you changed your mind? No rush, just wondering.
I also want to thank everyone for the kind words. Coming from respected peers like you all on the Paizo Boards, really means alot.
Cheers,
Utak
For TwiceBorn & French Wolf,
I have done a quick read through of your characters. I will spend more time on them once I have the Rutania info. posted. Just want to say that you are both excellent writers. I have some ideas in mind for some minor tweaking to adjust the concepts to the setting, but you both have really great stuff. Thank you for the interaction.
Cheers,
Utak
Utak, I've updated Erian's history a bit to come in line with the info so far on the setting (and worked in that scar across his nose...). Let me know any other tweaks you'd like.
He's now got ties to the elves as well, though I had worked that in before realizing so many folk in the group were elf/half-elf. Erian is human himself, but has a half-elven father (and now that I've read Veirax's history, I really like that tie!).
Looks like Lady Janas, Veirax, and Erian might have all come into the town in the same group, and thus might know each other from the road.
I do have some of my basic stuff added now and I will try to finish up my background here soon. I have been sick so it has been a little hard to concentrate when I am high on Antihistamines :)
Utak, I've updated Erian's history a bit to come in line with the info so far on the setting (and worked in that scar across his nose...). Let me know any other tweaks you'd like.
He's now got ties to the elves as well, though I had worked that in before realizing so many folk in the group were elf/half-elf. Erian is human himself, but has a half-elven father (and now that I've read Veirax's history, I really like that tie!).
Looks like Lady Janas, Veirax, and Erian might have all come into the town in the same group, and thus might know each other from the road.
I really like your character history. I probably have one more post to finish up the background on Rutania. This should give you some extra info on what may need to be updated to reflect the setting. Very minor things. Also, after my posts, I will start really looking at updated characters. I have some ideas for you and will share at that point.
Hey if some or all of you are all traveling together, it will make my job easier with easing up on the quantity of posts. But don't do this for my sake. I already have it envisioned that most if not all of the pc's will be starting in different areas in town. This will make my job harder, but the way I want to start it should make it interesting.
If you all want, communicate amongst yourselves once the final details are in. If some of you want to be traveling companions, that is completely fine.
Cheers,
Utak
I do have some of my basic stuff added now and I will try to finish up my background here soon. I have been sick so it has been a little hard to concentrate when I am high on Antihistamines :)
Don't sweat it, and don't rush yourself. I still have lots of info to get to you all, and then I have characters to look over and help tweak. I hope that you are feeling better.
How is your first D&D experience going so far? Is it making sense? Are you having fun making your first character? Remember, you don't have to learn everything at once. Heck, I am still learning. The best learning is done at the gaming table ... errr, Paizo MessageBoard.
Cheers,
Utak
Finished my background (pending my wife proof read, I am a horrible speller)
It is a bit long but I hope you can use some things in it. I think you have my email if you want to send me or my wife some changes.
Twiceborn is your character coming from Cein? I will be and I figured maybe I could be part of your escort or something since we are part of the same faith and all.
Finished my background (pending my wife proof read, I am a horrible speller)
It is a bit long but I hope you can use some things in it. I think you have my email if you want to send me or my wife some changes.
Twiceborn is your character coming from Cein? I will be and I figured maybe I could be part of your escort or something since we are part of the same faith and all.
I read the background. Really great stuff Dreamweaver. Once I have everything posted, I will throw some thoughts your way.
Cheers,
Utak
More goodies about Rutania:
Sheldon: Town along the eastern trade route, located on the Penda River. To sustain itself, there is fishing and agriculture. This town is also surrounded by spread out plains. On these plains, cows, goats, sheep, and other livestock are bred. From this industry, they produce clothing, meats, and famous Sheldon Cheese. The main industry, though, is the Sheldon Horse, Big, strong and intelligent horses that make great mounts for cavalry.
Seward: Seward is fast becoming a metropolis like Aiden’s Wall. Located on the eastern major trade route, where the Hrani River from the elven Deep Forest flows through it. The Hrani River has a silvery blue water, and the main type of fish in this river is the kotkel fish. The color of the water is caused by the silvery substance called Kotkelum. This element, not currently harnessed in its purity, is absorbed in the fish that live in the river. Therefore, fishing is the biggest industry in Seward. These fish are not used for food, though; their parts are used as alchemy products. First learned about from several inscriptions in the Great Temple, these inscriptions were a major find about 500 years. Then the settlement was established. Now Seward is a major city and is home to Kotkeluxium University, the primary magic school in the country. It is generally hypothesized that since the Hrani River runs through the Deep Forest before reaching Seward, and the Hrani River is the main source of water for the elven region, it is this river that, over thousands of years, instilled the long life of elven blood. This theory has yet to be proven.
Capetown: Now a growing town as sea exploration is fast becoming a merchants dream with the recent discovery of the Camdara Islands. With first contact with the islands made just over 50 years ago, exporting goods via sea transport has made investors very wealthy. (more on Camdara later). Capetown is the major port city. Its other industries are fishing and agriculture around the surrounding landscape.
Kenwith: A small fishing village until recently. A minor trade route was connected to it when there was the discovery of pearls in the shallow waters.
Gaderin: Known for its agriculture, fishing , and fruit groves, Gaderin is fast turning from small village to minor port town due to an inscription deciphered recently. The inscription describes a process of combining certain parts of the Penda Fish found around Stedman and certain fruits from Gaderin’s fruit groves to produce new types of potions.
Stedman: Town on the Penda River and part of a minor trade route. Stedman is still a small village. It is only recognized on maps because the penda fish in the waters surrounding Stedman contain trace amounts of Kotkelum. There are trace amounts because Stedman is south of where the Hrani River merges with the Penda River. Once the two rivers merge, the kotkelum supply is diluted. They export most of their Kotkelum products to Gaderin. Stedman also sustains itself through hunting in the small forests surrounding the area and some simple agriculture.
Lake Sihtric: Large lake southwest of Aidans Wall and west of Sceotend. This lake is surrounded by many nameless fishing villages. It is reported that groups of bandits have hideaways around the lake and in the Skyward Mountains to the west. It is reported that some of the hideaways are underground crypts from ancient times recently discovered by the bandits. It is also rumored that these crypts contain new inscriptions, and the bandit leaders are recruiting scholars to decipher the texts for their own purposes.
Isen’s Barrier: (also Isen’s Shield) This is a documented mountain range with the rumored Lake Isen in its center. This information comes from certain inscriptions found in the Great Temple. A goliath explorer named Ord claims that he has found a trail through this impassable mountain range. He is currently leading an expedition into the range. Just 18 months ago, a runner from his expedition returned to Aidans Wall to report that Ord found a pass, now called Ord’s Path, and the goliath was venturing forth. There has been no more developments reported by the expedition. From interpreting certain inscriptions from the Great Temple, Ord came to the conclusion that Lake Isen holds a stagnant source of Kotkelum. There are scholars who interpreted certain inscriptions defining a process to harness pure kotklum from stagnant waters. There are also inscriptions that describe a one-eyed humanoid race that may still live in the natural barrier that used to trade with Rutania’s ancient ancestors. It is believed that this race, if it exists, may have information regarding their ancestors and why the Great Temple was locked away and hidden for so long. It is also hoped that this one-eyed race will house new inscriptions and will teach the Rutanians how to better read and understand the inscriptions.
Still a little bit more to come, but almost there.
Let me know if there are any questions.
Cheers,
Utak
Ok, The information of Rutania is complete. I just want to mention two more areas that are neighbors of Rutania.
Solania: To the west of the Solanic River, bordered on the north by Kagen’s Range, and the Skyward Mountains on the west and south. There is also the Meer river that cuts through Solania, west to east. Solania is home to rolling hills and plains. The peoples are of many races and live a nomadic and barbaric (just meaning uncivilized - no true settlements) lifestyle. The nomadic lifestyle was adopted because fishing and hunting sustains the tribes. These tribes follow the spawning fish and animal migrations throughout the seasons.
A new source of trade for the barbarians was found at Lake Sespan, a huge watering hole on the southern border of Solania. Found in certain rock outcropping in the lake bed is a type of fresh water pearl the Solanians call Mudada. Current, almost deciphered, inscriptions hint at magical uses for Mudada and the Sespan Fish that inhabit the lake. This brings scholars to reason that there are kotlkelum deposits in the vicinity.
The Solania barbarians are also know for breeding very fast horses. These Solanic horses are much smaller and sleeker than the Sheldon horse. They are used for racing down game and quick and evasive archery combat techniques.
The barbarian tribes have, for the most part, adopted the Rutanian pantheon of deites, recognizing the powers of the religious magics. They have only kept a nomadic lifestyle because it is the way of life on these plains.
The Solanians and Rutanians have a open trade agreement and trading outpost at Gateway Bridge. Gateway Bridge is the major crossing juncture over the Solanic River. The bridge is also part of the new trade route into Solania. This trade route was approved by the Solanic tribal elders. It leads into the Skyward Mountains and becomes Journey Pass. The first expedition into Journey Pass left Aidans Wall six months ago. Its mission was to find a way through the Skyward Mountains, find new lands and civilizations, or bring civilization to new lands just like Kagen Ru, and to also develop trade. The current expedition has not been heard from since.
Camdara Islands: Recently discovered with the advent of shipbuilding and sailing skills. These islands have not been explored, but trade has been established with the natives. The islands are home to strange magics not before seen in Rutania.
I think I now have everything typed out from the notes I have been keeping.
Just a few quick notes. These times, the Age of Discovery, seem to be easy and good. There is a solid and good religion with honorable intentions and a healthy economy. But just like anything else, there is the ‘human factor’. There is also the shifter, elf, dwarf and so on. As life gets easier, the hardships are forgotten, luxury becomes expected and greed takes over. With each new generation, the hard work and goodwill toward community survival is forgotten, replaced by individual greed and selfishness.
Also, there is a constant search for kotkelum deposits. They are becoming almost as important as the inscriptions that teach ways to use the element.
Well, I believe that is it. I hope I gave enough information for you to get a proper feeling for the world. A lot of the descriptions are broad and open-ended. Please feel free to ask questions if specificity is required. Especially if you want specific information regarding Erian's Glen.
At this point, let me know when final character drafts are ready. I will then review them and soon after that the game will start.
I hope everyone is having a good time.
Cheers,
Utak
I have added my animal companion and his background will be entwined with Aradoves. It all seems to be coming into place now and I am excited about playing but I am still imitated by having to come up with her background as this will be my first time trying to write something like this but I am sure once I get going I will do fine. My husband looked at my stats I did up and said I did a better job then he did so that made me feel good!
I have added my animal companion and his background will be entwined with Aradoves. It all seems to be coming into place now and I am excited about playing but I am still imitated by having to come up with her background as this will be my first time trying to write something like this but I am sure once I get going I will do fine. My husband looked at my stats I did up and said I did a better job then he did so that made me feel good!
Your stats do look well planned out. In regard to background, start out simple. Pick a place where she grew up. If you want to know more about a place, let me know, but feel free to make up names of people in towns. I am going for an angol-saxon feel for names unles it is the the Deep Forest. For that, I have a special, secret naming system. If you would like suggestions, just let me know. Once you have a a starting point, just fill in the blanks. Who raised her? What caused her to become who she is? Why did she become a druid? Also, look at her feat and skill selection and her abilities. How did she learn all of this stuff? How did she meet her animal companion? Answer those few questions and the rest will probably come easy.
Let me know if I can help.
Cheers,
Utak
I am happy for Lady Janas to travel to Erian with the Shepherd and Erian.
If they both are equally happy then Lady Janas will join them in an Inn on the road to the town. She will not have known either of them before then.
Rather than "roleplay" this could we simply give each other a snapshot of how each character behaves on the journey?
Cheers
Tweaked Erian's background a bit more using the latest info. I think (barring DM input) that'll do it for him.
For traveling together, Erian is an obvious, eager explorer. He is well-prepared for a journey, with gear for overcoming various wilderness obstacles protruding from his horses saddle bags. Erian listens intently to anyone telling stories of their experience in other lands, often doing so while sketching out what the area might have looked like. He also freely shares his own stories of traveling with his father (he will reveal all information found in the Background section of the profile). Any time the group passes an interesting area--such as a rocky outcrop of unusual shape--Erian takes time to leave the group and draw out the terrain. He has an obvious interest in nature as well, participating on any hunting excursions and offering advice on flora and fauna encountered on the trip. During any religious observance, Erian is more reserved, staying near the back of a group and letting others do the talking.
Note that Erian is "young" (by our modern standards--in a medieval society he'd be well into manhood and half-way through his life expectancy!) at only 18. His experience on the road, however, has given him a broader/deeper understanding of life than others his age.
Tweaked Erian's background a bit more using the latest info. I think (barring DM input) that'll do it for him.
Erian_7,
I looked over your background. I still have to review your sheet, but I wanted to add some input.
Also, I was thinking, and please take this only as a suggestion, but it may create a neat hook later in the campaign. From your background, I am reasoning that it is possible that Erian's father is still on expedition in the vines. If this is true, then maybe that expedition is long overdue and Erian has arrived in Erian's Glen to find word of his father. It is logical, Erian's Glen being the soutern most settlement currently in Rutania, that Erian's father's expedition was based out of Erian's Glen.
Also, I have an idea about what bonus feat to give Erian, but I wanted to know if there was a feat that you had in mind
Cheers,
Utak
Lady Janas is a slim, attractive high elf. Not a stunner but definitely someone who can get noticed when she wants to be. Her thick, black hair is glossy with combing; it bounces freely as she moves. And she moves well - naturally graceful and sure-footed.
Lower down the Lady's dark blue robes flatter her figure , the fashionable cut causing her to show a length of fine thigh as her sits.
However Erian probably will notice that she is the first to feel the cold. The first to wrap up warm and move nearer a camp fire. Also he may wonder where the Lady will find the strength to use the swords and shortbow among her belongings.
Whenever Erian regales her with his passion for nature, she will politely listen and show an interest. Her only comment is nature and the world outside are all part of life's rich tapestry.
Occasionally Lady Janas accompanies young Erian on his forays into the wilderness. It will soon become clear that she enjoys the experience but has little woodcraft. More of an urban creature.
The Lady is happy to discuss the childhood, training and missions that Erian remembers, her own stories are about her studies and experiences with magic. Her love of magic is self-evident in the glow of her intelligent eyes and the restlessly flickering fingers.
When Erian's Glen nears, Lady Janas asks the explorer what he hopes to achieve in the town, after all perhaps as a new friend she can help him...
Tweaked again to incorporate those suggestions, as the former was a hold-over from my first draft and the latter was actually an opening I left specifically for DM hooks if appropriate.
For the feat, I'll leave it fully to your capable hands, Utak! It's often fun to mold a character as much to outside influence as internal planning.
For Lady Janas (and others on the journey south), Erian makes no secret of his desire to find news of his father on reaching Erian's Glen. Anyone perceptive enough to see past words to body language (i.e. characters with ranks in Sense Motive) will note some apprehension or concern when he speaks of this. Perfect tie in from Utak's suggestion!
French Wolf,
I looked over Lady Janas' background. I still have to review the character sheet. I am including some thoughts.
Currently, there are no demons in Rutania. I do have some ideas; though, to keep the same basic character concept.
Instead of demons, maybe Janas's father, the mage, incorrectly deciphered an inscription he read and tried to use magic beyond his ability. This caused some type of arcane backlash driving the mage mad. This arcane backlash also took on a limited senitience and infected other members of the house. Janas was protected by this backlash when her nanny used some type of protective amulet. Then, maybe, when her mad father found out, he still tortured her mind before killing himself.
These are just some thoughts. Sorry for the inconvenience. I really did think the background was great, but I just couldn't fit it in the setting.
I am looking forward to the next draft though.
Any questions, let me know.
Cheers,
Utak
Updated Map of Rutania now available based on some corrections from Utak and a bit of sprucing up. I'm shifting attention to the Erian's Glen map now (it'll end up like a Dungeon magazine map when I'm done...) so this'll be the last update on Rutania until I'm done with the city. This is the "big map" of Rutania--is it too large for anyone to download?
Utak, I'll have the basic Erian's Glen map ready within an hour or so. Do you want it linked here, or are you reserving it for later display? I'll, of course, shoot it by you for an "okay" before posting anything regardless.
Utak - I have had a go at adapting the concept to Rutania. Over to you when you get a chance.
I have one question below.