[M] Runes - recruitment and OOC

[Azazeal849]

Rated M for violence and mature themes
Potential strong language and sexual scenes


LINK TO IC (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=91289)

https://i.imgur.com/zjy5nvd.png

The moons were rising, the Lesser Moon chasing the Greater across the clear summer sky. It was a warm, dusty night, but the moonlight felt cold; the two brothers casting disinterested eyes down onto the village below. The Watchman knew that it was the last moonrise he would ever see. The knowledge seemed to both dull and sharpen his senses at the same time. He could pick out the homely, animal smells of the village behind him in every breath, and yet the moonlit paddy seemed to shimmer before his eyes, like a dreamscape. The wooden boards of the causeway creaked under his feet, disturbing a water snake that thrashed away through the waterlogged paddy field. The Watchman’s hand went to the leather pouch around his neck, and the small rune-etched stones within clicked together as he thumbed them.

The keeper of the runes flees from me. That’s no good omen.

But he was the Watchman - for forty years he had stood guard over this village, and if he did not stand now to give his kinsmen a chance to escape he would have been unworthy of the name. They trusted him, even if they never called him by his real name anymore. For a mage, letting a potential enemy know your true name was suicide.

The Watchman exhaled grimly. A true name was about the only thing that would avail him here, he suspected. The cities of the Valley had always warred, but when the Immortal and the Leveler had risen to power it had made the rest of the rune wars look like cheap firework shows. And after the two of them had seemingly had it out on the slopes of the western mountains, there was no-one left powerful enough to challenge the Leveler in a rune duel.

The Immortal. The Watchman almost let out a wry chuckle. A poorly-chosen name, it would seem. Few in the Enlightened city would miss that megalomaniacal bastard, but he had been the last real check on the Leveler’s expansion south. He looked up, and saw that a soft mist had sprung up among the rice stalks, blurring out the causeway ahead of him. No ordinary mist, the Watchman knew. A spell of concealment.

She was here.

A column of dark shadows hazed out of the mist, their footsteps softened into silence by the spell. A lone woman walked several paces in front of the others. She was swathed in a woollen cloak, blurring her outline against the shadows, but the moons reflected from her face, ghostlike. A streak of pastel-blue chalk ran horizontally across her pale eyes, soft against her pallid skin. It looked more like war paint than makeup.

“You don’t have to die here.” Her voice was warlike too; a hard-edged contralto.

The Watchman tried to moisten his lips, and found that his tongue was dry. His heart was thumping against his ribs, a caged rat twisting and gnawing to escape. He used the sound to focus his will, and as he felt the familiar burn of magic through his hands and forearms, he felt his courage returning. Sparks flickered around his fingertips, and the burnt-metal smell of ozone began to rise in the air around him.

“If you want to pass through this village, Leveler, then you’ll have to match runes with me.”

The Leveler gave the tiniest shake of her head. “I don’t need runes to fight you, Cavan son of Ava.”

The Watchman’s breath left him at the same time as the magic, the sparks around his hands snuffing out as their power was leeched out of him in a glare of white light. It glittered across the water and flashed against the mist surounding the Leveler’s men, and then it faded. The Watchman felt as if his physical strength had gone along with it, and his knees thumped hard against the wooden causeway as he fell, only a splayed hand stopping him from collapsing prone.

She knew my name. “How…?” he rasped.

He managed to raise his head, and saw the Leveler casually gesture with a pale arm. One of the shadows behind her glided forward, pulling an elderly woman with them by her hair.

The Watchman felt his heart drag downwards through his chest. “Neve.” he whispered.

“I’m sorry, Cavan…” the elderly woman sobbed, tears streaming down her cheeks. “I’m sorry…”

“My men caught your people trying to escape across the River.” the Leveler rumbled softly. “There’s no more reason for you to fight, Watchman. Stand instead, and live.”

The Watchman summoned enough defiance to spit on the gnarled planks below him. “As your thrall? I know how you work, slaver.”

One of the cloaked figures behind the Leveler took a furious step forward. “You dare…!”

The Leveler cut him off with a delicately raised hand. “You’re making a mistake. We humans are fragile things. Our bodies aren’t made to channel the raw power of magic. But what if we could change our bodies?”

The Watchmen gave a harsh, breathy laugh. “Like the fucking Mer?” He spat again to show his contempt for the infidel race of shapeshifters. “Even they know that the Greater Moonstone is a myth.”

A smile twitched at the corners of the Leveler’s mouth. “Is it?”

At first the Watchman thought it was his own swimming vision, but then he realised that the other mage was growing taller, her woollen cloak fanning upwards and outwards like a pair of shadowy wings. The shadow rose up, looming, closing out the Watchman’s vision until all that was left was black.

Welcome to Runes! This is a fantasy story that will be co-GM’d by Kris and Azazeal849. Runes is a world of magic, corruption, power-hungry wizards...and freakin’ mermaids. The powerful wizard known only as the Leveler has overturned the ancient City of Ash, and now she comes for the City of the Enlightened. Only a hastily-recruited army of wizard mercenaries stands in her way. But before we get deeper into that - here’s a few quick rules:

RULES

Naturally, all standard RPA rules apply, but here’s a few of our own. Mostly, they’re to help the readability of the thread.

Please write all IC posts in third person past tense. That is, “Finn drew his sword”; never “Finn draws his sword” or “I drew my sword.”
Please don’t use quote boxes in the IC. If you’re reproducing someone else’s text to try and help put your post in context, then please just indicate the copied text in a different colour.
If you’re copying someone else’s text into your post, please do not copy any more than is necessary to give context (i.e. don’t reproduce their entire post!)
Please do not use coloured text just to indicate that your character is speaking aloud. Speech marks are fine.
You can take a break or bow out of the RP at any time, for any reason. We understand that real life can get in the way, and sometimes people just aren’t feeling a story any more. But, if you plan to leave, please have the courtesy to leave a message in the OOC, so that the rest of us aren’t left waiting around for you.

Right, now that’s done with, on to the fun stuff.

THE WORLD

Our story takes place in the Valley, a fertile riverland bordered by mountains on three sides and the sea on a fourth. The myths differ on whether the ancestors came to the Valley over the mountains or from across the sea, but either way they have established a flourishing, if deeply divided and often war-torn civilisation. The Valley is characterised by mild winters and hot, dusty summers, during which the river that flows through the Valley to the sea provides the lifeblood of its inhabitants. Three primary cities have grown up along the river’s two hundred mile length, with many smaller towns scattered between. The shapeshifting Mer used to build their towns alongside the settling humans, but they were driven into the sea several generations ago during the War of Faith, and are now rarely seen in the three cities.

The strangest and most important artefacts in the Valley are the runestones, the enablers of magic. They take the form of tiny, smooth pebbles, each veined with the image of a strange symbol. Each symbol seems to correspond to the power of a specific spell, which is instantly granted to anyone who touches the stone with their bare skin. The spells contained within the runestones are many and varied - some can be used to heal wounds and cure sickness, while others can speed the growing of crops, and the most dangerous can rain fire and destruction on a caster’s enemies. Some spells seem to be relatively common, while others are rare - and for some of the most powerful only a single runestone has so far been found.

The first runestones were found in riverbeds by the earliest settlers of the Valley, and later, more were found embedded in the surrounding mountains. Their power led to the religion of the Shattered Gods, with most people believing that the runes are pieces of the titans who created the world and then destroyed each other in their subsequent feuds. After all, who else but a god could possess such power? The Valley people also revere water snakes, which are said to have led the ancestors to the first runes, and the sea crab, which never ages unless killed - some say that the oldest sea crabs witnessed the time before the war in the sky, when the gods were still whole.

Whatever their origin, runestones are the key to power in the Valley. With such power at their fingertips, wizards usually rise to dominate their peers, and most hoard collections of runes to themselves, letting only trusted friends or underlings touch them to gain their power. The only way to strip a wizard of their power is to speak their birth name aloud, which will drive all magical power out of the victim’s body with an instantly recognisable flash of light. The reason for this phenomenon is not fully understood, but it is an ordinary human’s only defence against the all-powerful wizards. Even so, its use will only grant you advantage over the wizard for a few short minutes before they regain their energy, and most powerful wizards will go to great lengths to ensure that no-one knows their true name.

For all its power, magic is a risky ally. Once learned a spell only requires willpower to cast, but the human body is not naturally evolved to cope with magical energies. People who channel the power of the runes frequently suffer pain, nosebleeds and even strokes if they try to cast a powerful spell that is beyond their ability. Using magic for many years can leave a wizard with nerve damage, sometimes eventually rendering them blind or destroying one or more of their other senses.

Your characters are a group of mercenary wizards, recently recruited by the Enlightened to help defend their city against the Leveler. Alternatively, some of them may be soldiers / bodyguards, mage-priests, or other people somehow caught up in the siege. Where your characters originally come from is totally up to you (go invent!) but the three main settlements of the Valley are as follows:

The City of the Enlightened - Magic and religion are closely entwined in the City of the Enlightened. Many temples to the Shattered Gods dot its skyline, and its ruling cabal - the Enlightened for which the city is named - draw their authority from the runestones which are said to contain the gods’ wisdom. It was the Enlightened city which began the War of Faith against the Mer, for their blasphemous belief that the runestones are not pieces of the Shattered Gods. They also find themselves in frequent conflict with the City of the Risen God and their strange new religion. No-one is granted the power of a runestone in this city without the patronage of one of the Enlightened. This has worked against them, however, because the relatively small number of holy wizards within the city will not be enough to repel the Leveler’s army on their own. Now, the Enlightened seek allies to help defend them. People from this city are generally called “Lightmen”.

The City of the Risen God - While the power of the runestones grants wizards ruling authority in most cities, in the City of the Risen God it is the opposite. Access to runes is even more tightly controlled than in the City of the Enlightened, and all new wizards must undergo a ritual in which they surrender their true names to the rulers of the city, thus placing themselves at their mercy. The city takes its name from the religion of its founders; unlike the Shattered Gods of the other cities, they believe in a new, intact god who exists unseen where all others have perished. Most others within the Valley consider their religion to be strange at best, and heretical at worst. People from this city are generally referred to as “Risemen.”

The City of Ash - Situated beneath a dormant volcano to the north of the Valley, the City of Ash was once the most prosperous of the cities, growing rich on fields and mines worked by the city’s large slave population. However, the recent upheaval of the Leveler’s rebellion has changed the old order. Most people in the City of the Enlightened do not know the true course of events there, as reports are fragmented and confused, but it seems that the Leveler has freed the former slaves of the Ash City and gained their undying loyalty in the process. This frightens the Enlightened, who fear a similar uprooting of the old order that has gone so long unchallenged in their own city. People from the City of Ash are generally called “Ashmen”.

For now, we are accepting one character per player, and we are requesting that all submitted characters be human. A suggested character template is shown below, but of course this is a guideline rather than something to be rigidly adhered to. We are letting players choose their own spells and will review and approve them on a case-by-case basis. Spells which cannot be produced by the players’ runestones include the power to raise the dead, and the power to change the caster’s form. Healing magic exists, but is limited to speeding up what the human body could naturally accomplish on its own. There is also no spell that can directly influence another creature’s mind - although a few rare runes can affect how people feel, they may still be aware on some level of what’s going on.

A note on naming: most NPCs in this world will have Irish / Celtic names (written phonetically so that they’re easier for readers to pronounce), and we’d like it if you followed this convention. Some examples are given below.

Male examples: Aiden, Shaun, Connor, Dara, Niall, Kian, Osheen, Engis, Albay, Cavan, Killian, Colm, Davin, Finn, Emmet, Riley

Females examples: Shivaan, Ava, Ifa, Anna, Kiara, Neve, Sirshe, Keeva, Tigan, Cara, Rhianne, Mira, Keri, Iona, Gail, Eevlin

True Name: Your character’s birth name
Mage Name: The moniker your character uses to avoid being Named in the middle of a fight
Age: Self-explanatory
Appearance: Pictures and / or written description. We suggest that you also describe your character in an early IC post, to help fix them in the minds of the other players.
Personality: A few bullet points is fine. This is mostly something simple for you to refer back to, or for us to use as a guide if we have to NPC your character for any reason.
Runestones: Spells that your character currently knows.
Stuff: Weapons, clothes, armour and anything else they might be carrying around.
Languages: Languages your character can speak (people in the City of the Enlightened speak Light; people in the City of the Risen God speak Rise, people in the City of Ash speak Ash)
Background: Don’t sweat too much over this. However, we expect anything you write here to get at least a passing mention in the IC!

If you have ideas for character subplots that you’d like to see included in the story then just send us a PM - we’d love to hear them! As a general rule, we won’t be killing off active characters without first consulting the player (and if you’re about to do something suicidal, we’ll warn you). That said, we may well knock them about a fair bit.

Any questions, just ask!

Solar (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90995&page=2&p=2973208&viewfull=1#post2973208) by Kiro Akira
The Archer (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90995&page=5&p=2976165&viewfull=1#post2976165) by Derpnaster
The Raven (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90995&page=6&p=2977680&viewfull=1#post2977680) by Splat
The Wanderer (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90995&page=9&p=2980266&viewfull=1#post2980266) by Scottie (please quote their text in orange)
The Wraith (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90995&page=9&p=2980187&viewfull=1#post2980187) by Price (please quote their text in yellow)
The Illusion (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90995&page=16&p=2984846&viewfull=1#post2984846) by Underblank
The Hole (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90995&page=35&p=3001553&viewfull=1#post3001553) by Minkasha (please quote their text in silver)
Red (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90995&page=37&p=3005119&viewfull=1#post3005119) by Katrina
The Ambassador (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90995&page=7&p=2978151&viewfull=1#post2978151) by Kris

https://www.aceshowbiz.com/images/still/preview/macbeth08.jpg
The Leveler hails from the City of Ash, and first rose to prominence by inciting the slaves there to rise up against their masters. She has taken in many with her silver-tongued promises of freedom, peace and transcendence beyond mortality for all who follow her, but the Enlightened doubt her intentions to share power. Her fanatical followers are cutting a swathe through the armies of the Valley, and now she has set her sights on the City of the Enlightened. Only the city’s mercenary defenders stand in her way.

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/3165672479/64b8705835e775ed7797f7d1622b3aaa_400x400.jpeg
Some say that the Immortal was born in the City of the Risen God, where wizards are not the rulers but the persecuted, and that he learned the powers of the runes in secret so he would not have to give up his True Name. Others say he was once one of the mysterious Seekers, who hide runes that are too powerful for men to be trusted with. Whether he was given his first runes or somehow took them by force is not known, but what is known is that he seeks to overcome death - the last obstacle that magic cannot defeat. To do this he sought out many powerful runes, putting him at odds with the Seekers on many occasions. He is perhaps the only wizard powerful enough to challenge the Leveler, but his current whereabouts are unknown.

The five mages of the Enlightened city, mixing rune power with religion to rule with an iron fist.

THE BLUE LADY
https://i.pinimg.com/736x/14/42/68/144268789ea7a91ee0baaa89f0a5a278--indian-suits-indian-dresses.jpg

THE ROSE
https://t4.ftcdn.net/jpg/01/18/79/27/240_F_118792728_F21EqKn3dbEs2oo86DCKS50yCT9PTkrZ.j pg

THE CRONE
https://img3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20101214192819/dune/images/e/e1/Ramallo.jpg

THE HUNCHBACK
https://i.pinimg.com/736x/6e/be/f1/6ebef1ba582ea1f3fde00dabbf6e114c.jpg

THE SCORPION
https://superheroabode.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/MBaku-Black-Panther.jpg

A cabal of mages who form the Leveler’s inner circle.

THE APPRENTICE
https://i.imgur.com/IZ2NNoM.jpg

THE BLADEMAIDEN
https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8tkgfUvRpl0/T9rYZzU-Q-I/AAAAAAAAJSs/sW0W_K2_hUs/s1600/543720_302633503154811_1142186634_n.jpg

THE BURNING
https://img14.deviantart.net/1471/i/2014/003/1/6/winter_viking_by_starcrossedscientist-d70pygm.jpg

THE DARK MAN
https://playingwithresearch.files.wordpress.com/2014/11/deliver-us-from-evil-gore-5.jpg

REDMOOR
https://img00.deviantart.net/6373/i/2013/303/a/3/red_wizard_by_artastrophe-d66rnje.jpg

THE WEAVER
https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/gameofthrones/images/8/84/Tyene_Sand_familytree.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20170724071014

THE HOLE
https://pp.userapi.com/c850228/v850228225/426cb/nK5Yu-rNeh4.jpg

DAVIN
https://i.pinimg.com/236x/a9/8a/36/a98a3660ea8835893c7ad03664398979.jpg

[Scottie]

https://i.imgur.com/L35IDr8.png


Looks like you've got an awesome roleplay started, Azazeal849! If you would like to advertise for more members, here are some ways to do so!

First off, there's the Roleplay of the Week (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=85745). This is displayed on the website's home page as well as on the side bar of the forum. If you think it might help then we implore you to do so! We are always looking for new RP's to advertise. (No, really. We are. Always.) If you would like a little bit more information, or even an example, you can view that here (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=59571).

One of the requirements for a RP of the Week submission is that you have a banner. If you're not artistically inclined, however, do not fear! We have several amazing artists on the site who will make one for you. Simply post here (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79546).

Next, you can post in this thread (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=79783) and the staff will display your role-play in their signatures.

Also feel free to post in the Roleplay Directory (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=40645). This is a thread that anyone can view at any time to see roleplays that are currently seeking and accepting members.


https://i.imgur.com/x9yqH0s.png

[ｒａｂｂｉｔ]

hnnnqqgg... interested... but i shouldn't... but i want to...

[Splat]

Placeholder for soon to come CS ;)

[Queen]

So are non-human races out then? Like Elves or Tieflings?

[Splat]

Question: does magic allow someone to influence animals? Not people, just beasts and such.

[Azazeal849]

hnnnqqgg... interested... but i shouldn't... but i want to...

That was basically my thought process when deciding to GM this story as well, so at least you’re not alone. :P


So are non-human races out then? Like Elves or Tieflings?

They don’t exist in this world. At least not yet.


Question: does magic allow someone to influence animals? Not people, just beasts and such.

The same rules as influencing humans apply - so you couldn’t directly command an animal but you could make it feel agitation / fear / anger or whatever. And it’d be more likely than a human to react instinctively, rather than to wonder what was going on.

A word of caution: you might get into trouble in the Enlightened city if you tried to cast a spell on a sacred animal (i.e. a snake).

[Splat]

One more question hehe, would it be possible to just find a runestone in the environment? Or have they all been snatched up by now?

[Azazeal849]

Most of the easy-to-reach ones have been found, though new ones still occasionally turn up around the River, or during excavation works (which is why there’s always a mage supervising the mining operations up in the mountains). You also might unearth a stash that some wizard had tried to hide somewhere.

[pyjamaviking]

I know I previously registered interest, but I think this one's not for me. Good luck though, it does look awesome :)

[Kiro Akira]

True Name:
Orin Aodhan


Mage Name:
Solas Philipine Lasair
The Flare

Nicknames:
Solar
Flare

Age:
27


Appearance:

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/52/29/4b/52294ba8aed755d6abc47cc527d5ea7e.jpg



Personality:
Solas keeps his own information to himself, but speaks freely. He often talks about everything but himself keeping his own self a mystery when it comes to everything. He enjoys talking to others and loves to fight when the time is right.


Runestones:
Blaze:
While not a completely powerful spell, and actually the first rune Solar found when he was younger. Well before they were horded by everyone else. With the rune, he is able to emit a small flame in his hand. While it's no larger then a baseball, it can be enlarged into the size of a soccer ball with the more magic he puts in it. The flame is a pretty light blue flame with white tips. It can be thrown and can cause burns when coming in contact with skin.

Haze:
This rune runs a bit stronger when it comes to magical abilities. As Solar is able to freeze the water at the touch of his hands. The more magic he infuses with the water the more he can freeze. His full cap before it begins to effect him negatively.

Crater:
While believed to be a powerful rune. In both his eyes and his fathers. Solar can craft a boulder by using smaller rocks. With the smaller rocks he can push them together and form a bigger rock by mending their properties together. While Solar does have the ability to fuse, he can also defuse them and break them down and part them into multiple rocks. Solar alone can form small rocks the size of a basketball just before he loses his focus and breaks the rock.

Spark:
This, is Solar's most powerful spell he has come to find. It was well hidden and often to be hidden for a very good reason. As it is hardly controllable and has only given Solar problems any time he has used it. This powerful rune gives the ability to create lightning bolts. It strikes from the heavens and skies in a singular spot and shocks the entire area in a great 3ft radius. The damage dealt all depends on how close one is to the initial strike point. The further they are the less power it has.

Swap:
Most basic of Solar's runes. By infusing his hands with the runic powers. He can swap the placement of two objects. The object in size comparison can be no larger then a simple softball. Solar can move simple things such as a golden coin or two in the blink of an eye. Although the large the object the less speed he can use to swap it.


Stuff:

Red cloth shirt
Pair of loose cloth pants
A shroud/cloak to cover his appearance when need bee
A small pouch for his runes
A large backpack in which he stores accessories.
A small silver dagger in case of close combat




Languages:

Light
Broken Ash (Knows a number of words but not fluent in it)



Background:
Born into a regular family in the wonderful City of The Enlightened. Solas was raised by his mother who was born in the wonderful City of Ash. His father, kept the family going by working most of his life away just to keep the family stable. The final member of the family would only come to complete them as he turned the grand age of five. His mother would produce the offspring of yet another little boy.

The four lived in a small home just on the outskirts of the City and were often farmers of sort. The three were a close family and often seen spending as much of their time together rather then with others. He was always told by both his father and mother not to leak any information about his own self even from a young age.

In his teen years, Solas was assisting his father in the fields when he uncovered a small rune. While it surely wasn't the most powerful, Solas knew what it was and quickly took it slipping it into his pocket. Making sure nobody around him had seen it. The only one nearby was his father who spent his own time tending to the fields. Solas kept it a secret from even his parents and practiced the power of the small rune in the midst of night when everyone was asleep.

The years of his childhood would grow on by, his parents eventually finding out he had taken claim to a rune along with one more that was found in the bottom of the lake near their lovely home. They urged him even harder to keep secret to the powers that engulf Solas' years of happiness. He continued as he would with his first rune and would only practice the abilities late at night often ending the practice with great fatigue from the power. And sleeping nearly half the day.

Now in his early twenties, Solas took over most of the work in his parents fields and was often doing the work as needed until one day had passed by in where digging in his dried up well. Solas searched for even a glimpse of water, It was a long process and took nearly a month but eventually just at the bottom he struck a rather odd looking stone. It was almost as if the stone was buried here years ago.

When arriving inside with his mother and father, he soon found out his father had his own runes. Solas confronted the situation with haste eager to learn more about the situation. One being the power to create boulders from smaller rocks, and a second one in which was encased in the large rock in his hand. His father hid the rock deep in the bottom of the well years ago. It was long before the birth of Solas and was meant to be kept a secret.

Soon life would take it's toll and upon the end of his fathers. Solas received an additional two rune stones. The one hidden in the rock (If he could break it) and the rune his father once held with the power to create larger rocks from a smaller one. Solas would take the two with a heavy heart but would soon leave out to his own adventure. He couldn't stay to live in the home with his mother any longer.

The life Solas soon lived was one of travel, in which he became a messenger boy for the three cities often traveling back and forth delivering letters between the commoners of the towns. Practicing his magic on the way, Solas soon found a way to break open the stone rock and receive the rune locked away. It would be a rune he had never seen before but Solas soon found out it was a bad idea to use it unless needed.

Upon one of the long journeys, Solas came into a run down with two additional men. Stopping him in the middle of a path claiming he owed them just for the crossing of the land. With Disagreement, the three fell into a heated battle. Solas would continue fighting the two men until he came to the power of his newest rune. Unsure of it's power, Solas casted the spell from the rune and with a bright flash of light, the power of the rune exploded into a bright strike of lightning.

The power he assumed would be just enough to eliminate the two enemies ended up in a catastrophe of problems. It would eliminate the foes but ended in Solas being out in the midst of a field only about 10 feet away from the impact of his rune. The power was greater then what Solas would imagine and left him unconscious for a long two days. Upon awakening, he had come to find his right arm was numb from the shoulder all the way down to the tips of his fingers, another side effect happened to be temporary blindness in his right eye. While it wasn't always blind, he could see out of it just as long he kept his powers at a rest. The stronger essence of magic he used, would only give his vision away slowly. Returning only when the magic was brought to a halt.

[Queen]

I will throw something in. For point of reference, what scale of spells are good to start with?

[Ayros]

Question: I’d like to give my character a backstory of his using a spell that was WAY too much for him to handle. However, I’m not sure how exactly he would come across that strong of a rune. Could I say, for instance, he touched it after his teacher was killed, or something along those lines?

Also, I figured he would use that spell in defense of the City of Ash, but I’m not positive whether or not The Leveler is the type to leave him alive. I’d just like to know so as to not overstep my bounds :)

[Azazeal849]

I will throw something in. For point of reference, what scale of spells are good to start with?

It’s said that the runestones are pieces of the gods, and that together they contain every thought the gods have ever had. So they might do anything from the seemingly innocuous (create a strong smell of lamp oil!) to the quite functional (purify stagnant water, tell truth from lies for as long as you can stand channelling the spell) to the rather terrifying (lightning bolts!).

Runes that can blast open city walls and burn a whole company of soldiers to ash do exist, but in practice anyone who casts it has their head catch fire a few moments later. So unless you’ve got a fanatically loyal minion to use the rune for you...

In practice I’m willing to at least consider any spell that wouldn’t fundamentally break the way a bronze-age society would operate, and I’m happy for you to use other magical universes (e.g. D&D) as inspiration.


Question: I’d like to give my character a backstory of his using a spell that was WAY too much for him to handle. However, I’m not sure how exactly he would come across that strong of a rune. Could I say, for instance, he touched it after his teacher was killed, or something along those lines?

Yes, that would be fine. Your character will likely have done himself some serious nerve damage in the process (e.g. blind in one eye / partial paralysis / loss of feeling).


Also, I figured he would use that spell in defense of the City of Ash, but I’m not positive whether or not The Leveler is the type to leave him alive. I’d just like to know so as to not overstep my bounds :)

The Leveler wouldn’t just let him go (since taking someone’s runes off them doesn’t remove their ability to cast spells in future) but he might have woken up after being left for dead, or set free from prison by a supporter of the old Ash order.

[Ayros]

Yes, that would be fine. Your character will likely have done himself some serious nerve damage in the process (e.g. blind in one eye / partial paralysis / loss of feeling).
Great! I was already planning on the “blindness in one eye” thing :)
Another question, though: would the spell actually go off? Or would it just sort of sizzle out?


The Leveler wouldn’t just let him go (since taking someone’s runes off them doesn’t remove their ability to cast spells in future) but he might have woken up after being left for dead, or set free from prison by a supporter of the old Ash order.
Hmm, I was gonna go for “left for dead”, but the alternative seems rather interesting as well! Perhaps I’ll use that!

[Azazeal849]

I can even have his former jailer chase him around as a recurring miniboss if you like.


Another question, though: would the spell actually go off? Or would it just sort of sizzle out?

I’ll let you decide, based on what’s the most dramatically appropriate!

[Queen]

Cool, that helps alot. Ill probably moddle my spell list after Pathfinder stuff then.

[Kris]

Hey guys, wanting to say hello!

I really need to get on my ass and write few awesome npcs XD

Gonna be the second in command as GM, but obviously the more powerful :P

Since RPApril gonna take some of the time, we will delay a bit with starting this.

So there is still time to join. Or swim with seashells.

[Snotgirl]

Just popping in to say I'm still interested. Hopefully I'll have something up today.

[G]

This thread has been featured as
https://i.imgur.com/CzbCBSv.png

[Azazeal849]

Woohoo! Thanks G C:

[Vivienne]

Is there still room in this game? I'm not in anything, and would not mind getting my proverbial feet wet. One possible thought/request; flesh out the 'rules' for runes/spells. There seems to be some ambiguity noted from other posters, plus it seems the focal mechanic of the game.

[Azazeal849]

Yes we have space.

I was generally light on guidance for magic (apart from restrictions) to allow people more freedom to create - but if you’d like something a little more concrete, use (for example) D&D spell lists for inspiration. And don’t be afraid to choose esoteric ones - I’d much rather see creative uses of all sorts of random magic than 50 shades of fireballs.

All runes will be approved / rejected on a case by case basis as character sheets are posted.

[Kiro Akira]

I believe I have finished, let me know if anything else is needed.

- - - Updated - - -

Also wanted to add I'm trying to not make the spells to powerful o.o let me know if I can increase it.

[Vivienne]

Also, how many spells do we get? One, two, twenty, 100,000,000?

[Azazeal849]

As a totally arbitrary limit, let’s say up to ten spells.

If you have a particular subplot or character arc in mind, I may arrange for you to pick up extra runes over the course of the RP.

[Zed]

I am interested in this RP. However, I am new to this site, though not new to RP.

Quite a bit to read up on yet, so I am not quite sure the accepted etiquette for joining.

Character in mind will definitely be a merc wizard, but his specialty is more of a curse than a offensive or defensive weapon.

Any suggestions, help on next steps would be appreciated.

[Derpnaster]

So what of people who eschew life inside of civilization? Are there people or tribes who reject the beliefs and orders of the cities in favor of their own passed down traditions?
Or are there wandering warriors who keep the roads and cities safe from what lurks beyond their walls?

[Azazeal849]

So what of people who eschew life inside of civilization? Are there people or tribes who reject the beliefs and orders of the cities in favor of their own passed down traditions?

As you’d expect, the cultural influence of each city reduces with distance, to the point that it’s hard to tell who some border villages are aligned with (and the villagers themselves probably don’t care). It also doesn’t help that the cities mostly raise revenue by taxing trade, rather than direct taxation in return for protection and infrastructure.

As for beliefs, they’re all ultimately descended from the same migration, so there is a certain amount of cultural crossover. Most people in the Valley are polytheistic (apart from the Risemen), and most people believe that runestones are in some way connected to their gods, but local rituals and customs vary. For example, the Lightmen consider water snakes to be holy, but Ashmen don’t. The idea that the gods fought each other and were shattered is very common, but not totally universal.

Which gods are given prominence also varies from place to place, and some villages have made up their own little niche gods related to local landmarks. The names of the major gods (once translated) tend to be more or less the same across the board since they use descriptors - the River God, the Mountain God, The Lesser Moon God etc - because like mages the gods never reveal their true names.

Religious and cultural bigotry abounds in the three cities, and if you openly practice a belief system that’s different from the locals, you’re going to get funny looks.


Or are there wandering warriors who keep the roads and cities safe from what lurks beyond their walls?

The cities all have their own brand of police force (often just street gangs for hire), and can raise soldiers if need be. Professional mercenaries both magical and non-magical exist, and in peacetime they are usually hired by rich traders as guards.

Mercenaries are usually too expensive for ordinary villagers, although no doubt there’s a few Boy Scouts out there who offer their services for cheap to villages that aren’t lucky enough to have their own mage protecting them. There are also plenty of travelling tradesmen and non-combat mages who go about selling their skills from village to village.

[Azazeal849]

I believe I have finished, let me know if anything else is needed.

Also wanted to add I'm trying to not make the spells to powerful o.o let me know if I can increase it.

Oops, sorry Kiro Akira, I only just saw this post. Looks fine, and if your spells end up too out of sync with the other characters I’ll let you increase them. C:

I do have one question - after he left home, how has he been earning a living? Or was leaving home extremely recent and after the incident on the road he’s going back as a paid mercenary / going back to defend his home city?

[Kiro Akira]

Oops, sorry Kiro Akira, I only just saw this post. Looks fine, and if your spells end up too out of sync with the other characters I’ll let you increase them. C:

I do have one question - after he left home, how has he been earning a living? Or was leaving home extremely recent and after the incident on the road he’s going back as a paid mercenary / going back to defend his home city?

Well in my idea I figured he made money as a traveler delivering letters between the cities. And then the story would begin about a month after that incident.

[Azazeal849]

Okay cool.

[Kiro Akira]

So how long before we get things going? o.o

[Azazeal849]

A couple of weeks at least, to let everybody else put together their characters. Going to aim for the end of April for a kickoff.

[Price]

Hmmmmm I am very intrigued. I will have a CS up as soon as possible. It would be amazing to rp with so many of my fave peeps on the site for the first time!

[Kiro Akira]

Fave Peeps? o.o who's your fave? o:

[Azazeal849]

Okay! So we have a CS from Kiro, and a few others (Karma, Scottie, Derpnaster and Price) confirmed to be working on theirs.

For the others who expressed interest ( Vivienne, Zed, Queen, Ayros, Snotgirl, Splat, @r a b b i t; Sy23, Imperial1917) are you still with us and do you need any other information?

[Derpnaster]

Working on a Preliminary sheet right now, there's a few versions of the character I have in mind I just want to narrow the theme down

[Iwazuma]

And now I'm tempted to grill the GM to see if I can break the game...

Not really. xD

Though I did have a question or two. Not necessarily making a sheet (though I might, who knows), but the stray thought crossed my mind.

If the runes can be practically any kind of magic...can there be anti-magic runes? Your classic dispel, reflect, and resist magic spells come to mind, but the stray thought occurred to me of a wizard who refuses to use magic that influences the world around them, instead focusing on magic that would buff themselves, and then they just act as a superpowered swordsman. A sort of foil to the other magic users, so to speak.

Just spitballing, it's 4:30 in the morning and I'm barely recognizing half of what I say. xD

[Azazeal849]

If the runes can be practically any kind of magic...can there be anti-magic runes? Your classic dispel, reflect, and resist magic spells come to mind, but the stray thought occurred to me of a wizard who refuses to use magic that influences the world around them, instead focusing on magic that would buff themselves, and then they just act as a superpowered swordsman. A sort of foil to the other magic users, so to speak.

Various types of “barrier” and “immunity” runes certainly exist. You can’t directly dispel a casting, but there are plenty of ways to break a wizard’s focus or otherwise stop them from getting a spell off.

It’s funny you mention a superpowered swordsman, because you’ll be meeting an NPC who is a bit like that...

[Splat]

Sorry I haven’t been very active, I’m on vacation >u<

I’ll try to get something up soon but I’m having a little trouble coming up with good ideas xD

[Zed]

For the others who expressed interest ( Vivienne, Zed, Queen, Ayros, Snotgirl, Splat, @r a b b i t; Sy23, Imperial1917) are you still with us and do you need any other information?

I jumped into another rp. Still new to the site, I don't want to over extend myself. But I will be reading!

[Ayros]

Super sorry about the lateness, my plans for tomorrow is basically Take the SAT - go to lunch - write this CS xD

[Imperial1917]

I'm still here; I just have little time on the weekdays due to my work schedule. I'll get something up as soon as I can.

[Derpnaster]

True Name: Killian of Ash
Mage Name: Mora the Archer
Age:Twenty Three Winters (23 Years)
Appearance: A man of impressive height, standing at six feet tall with a long stride, not overly heavy, but not scrawny. Years of travel and dangers unknown have weathered once pale skin to a tan, almost red color and put some gray in hair that is black and long, to the earlobes almost, what is striking are Killian's coal gray eyes, which sit somewhat sunken in and peer out over a nose that is long and slightly turned up, many scrapes and dirt patches cover Killian's skin often lending ever more to a rascally appearance, which is not helped by his oft untrimmed beard which while not long is scruffy.
Personality: While not particularly fond of violence Killian believes that sometimes the only option is to fight, that said Killian often travels alone, hardly ever venturing to any city Killian will often keep his distance from city dwellers and in particularly city authorities, and of that especially religious persons. Those that do prove themselves true friends and worth travelers Killian will at least be willing to share a tale or two, though the tales of a wanderer often draw little attention.
Runestones: Killian prefers to not cast spells save in the most dire of needs, his understanding of what magic is, and what it does to the human body is such that Killian will hardly ever use powerful magic even when the need arises for magic to be used. Thus he has been known to use the follow three spells. Arrow of Fate: a single arrow infused with rites of accuracy and power is prepared and then sent forth to strike with sure accuracy While not particularly powerful on the surface a well placed shot can make the difference between life and death. Flamecraft: A spark of life in the wilderness fire is king, wanderers live and die by their ability to create fire, this magic, used only in the most dire of times can bring forth a crackling flame at any time, even in the most dire of straits. Vision of the Eagle: Masters of tracking from sight, Eagles can trace the smallest of prey from high above ground, this spell confers the caster this great power of tracking, though not the skill to use it.
Stuff: Weapons: Hunting Bow: a weapon somewhere between a short bow and a war bow the Hunting bow is recurved to maximize it's tension and power in as small a package as possible, Arming Sword, while not quite a short sword the Arming sword is a solid weapon that can both slash and stab with equal effectiveness, being a one handed blade by design it is maneuverable while still being lethal. Hunting Knife, not so much a weapon as a tool the Hunting Knife is used to prepare slain creatures' meats alongside various woodcraft, it is a thick long blade set in a wooden hilt, it is heavy enough to cut small trees down if needed. Rope, Tackle, and tools of the trade. Tools and equipment oft found around a campfire. Armor: Pauldrons: Armor for the shoulders and upper arms Killian wears a lighter pauldron on his sword arm while his left arm boasts metal plates below the shoulder with a single brass emblem in a diamond shape, it is raised in the center acting as a little known symbol of his order. Bracers and other armors, Killian, unlike others of his order, chooses to wear armor openly, though much like others of his kind he keeps his armor light and mobile, Killian wears no metal armor as it is harder to maintain on the road, instead wears leather tassets to protect his waist and a leather curiass to cover his chest. Belts, Baldric and pouches: Killian wears leather belts and a baldric from which is hung his sword, across the lower back he wears a small quiver while he keeps his bow unstrung and slug across hisbackpack. Clothing: A dark green tunic and worn travle stained breeches are the basic clothing Killian wears, with great boots of worked and worn leather and a light brown coat of leather worn under the Pauldrons and baldric and belt. The coat has an ample hood to keep the head dry in wet weather and is long enough to keep one warm in mild chills, a cloak is available for truly cold weather. Additionally Killian carries an arrow bag to protect his ammunition supplies
Languages: Ash for certain, fragments of other languages.
Background: Born to the City of Ash, Killian like many worked under the yolk of oppression, from which he fled at a young age, bringing him by the winds of fate to the Seekers, mysterious warriors and wanderers who stalk the valley keeping the most dangerous of magic in check and in secret working to prevent an ancient prophesy given by a Mer seer long ago, they seek to find the strongest of Runestones and bury them from history, hiding them in places no man would ever dare venture until the time arrives when they learn of ways to destroy such powerful magics. The Seekers teach that magic is not for one man alone, if man is to have magic at all he must share it, and as such even they do not touch these powerful stones, the knowledge they hold is too dangerous for even the wisest of their kind, the venerable Druids who guide the Wanderers in their never ending quest to keep the Prophesy at bay.
It is such that Killian became a Wanderer, a seeker of forbidden knowledge in order to both preserve and prevent it from misuse, Killian was among the first Seekers to discover the Leveler's path of destruction, however shortly after her razing of Ash he lost the trail in the City's destruction.

[Elliebean]

I might be interested .

[Azazeal849]

We’d be happy to have you! Just post up a character profile, and if you have any questions don’t be afraid to ask.

[Derpnaster]

How's everyone doing so far?

[Imperial1917]

Sorry, I'm backing out of this RP. I don't have time in the near future, but I might join after that if there are still spots.

[Azazeal849]

Quite alright, Imp.

Splat requested some character prompts so I’ll reproduce my PM here for anyone who’s still mulling over their ideas:

A hardcore mercenary who has fought all over the Valley. The Leveler isn’t the first wizard they’ve seen with too big an ego.
A wizard duellist who wanders the Valley looking for worthy opponents...and the Leveler looks like the most worthy one yet.
An apprentice of one of the Enlightened - they could be an honourable defender, or a total snob, or both!
A strongly religious Light wizard who believes the Leveler is the epitome of evil and will destroy the world if they don’t stop her.
A village wizard whose town was flattened by the Leveler’s invasion, and now they want payback.
A Light citizen (magical or otherwise) who cares less about the big war than defending their home and their family.
A rich and powerful Ash citizen who high-tailed it out of there when the Leveler rose to power. They want their money back.
A priest of the Shattered Gods, who carries a sacred water-snake everywhere they go and constantly reads signs of doom in the clouds.
An old, set-in-their-ways wizard who thinks the rest of the players are all jumped-up whippersnappers who need to go back to rune school.
A wizard’s non-magical bodyguard or assistant.

[Splat]

Actually that really helps lol. Thanks~

[Splat]

I can’t decide whether to make a guy or a lady... the character I have in mind is a dude, but we don’t have any ladies yet... hmmmmmm

[Azazeal849]

Kris and Karma are making female characters, if that information helps!

I assume it won’t make any difference storywise if the character is male or female?

[Splat]

War or peace, rich or poor, weak or powerful, it doesn’t matter. When someone wants a mage dead... they call me.

True Name:
Brannon Leredin

Mage Name:
The Raven, also known as the Hunter, or the Mage-Killer

Age:
42

Appearance:
Brannon is a large man, standing just over six feet and possessing a muscular build. His hair is dark and long, hanging to his shoulders, though typically tied back. He is usually unshaven, a scruffy, grey-speckled beard adding to his wild appearance. He might even be considered handsome, were it not for the scars trailing down his left cheek like clawmarks. Despite this, perhaps his most striking feature is his pale blue eyes, sending an icy stare from beneath his heavy brow like the first frosts of winter. His typical attire is leather armor, protective enough for arrows and light spells but not much else.

Personality:
Brannon is a living representation of “world-weary”; the toils and years of living on the road are plain on his face and in his demeanor. He travels alone, and is perfectly comfortable keeping himself company during long journeys. He can come off as standoffish to some, or mysterious to others, but most who see him prefer to keep their distance, unwilling to discover the secrets hidden behind his cold gaze.

Runestones:
Bound // Conjures magical chains that bind the target’s limbs and prevent movement. This can only hold a target the size of one average person; anything larger becomes more strenuous. Only one target may be chained at a time.
Detect Magic // This spell tracks the magical energy emitted by the runestone spells and allows the caster to follow the trail it creates. More powerful spells give off stronger energy. If there are multiple trails, they become difficult to differentiate, and become fainter the further away the caster is from their origin.
Darkvision // Provides the caster with vision in darkness as if it were a clear day. Lasts for eight hours.
Runeward // Creates a small barrier that envelops the caster, or a person/object he chooses. This barrier is impenetrable by spells as well as nonmagical means. It only lasts for a few seconds- having it last longer or cover more area requires more exertion.
Bird's Eye View // A scouting spell, this rune conjures a small bird, typically a raven, that acts as a familiar of sorts to its conjurer. It flies ahead, and the spellcaster may use the spell to see through its eyes and gain a better view of the surroundings. While doing this, the caster's own eyes are completely blind and thus leave him vulnerable. The conjuration dissipates after a short while.


Stuff:

A steel longsword, weathered from use yet surprisingly still sharp
A dagger, the hilt carved with mysterious symbols yet to be deciphered
An amulet, carved in the shape of a ram skull, said to provide protection from evil
A small lockbox holding runestones and other valuable possessions



Languages:
Ash, Light

Background:
Brannon comes from humble beginnings. He was born in a little village, technically in the territory of the city of Ash but so far away that it hardly mattered. His father was a carpenter, his mother a tanner, and their family made a decent living for themselves. Since it was such a small village, the townspeople had little experience with magic, only hearing of the stories of powerful mages from the larger cities. So you could understand the excitement that ran through the town when it was heard that a mage would be staying in their humble inn.

The mage, known as Redmoor, was a charismatic man, and the village folk were immediately enamored by him. Especially Brannon, who would go to the inn after a day of work and listen to the man’s stories from far away lands. Everything was good... until Redmoor displayed his true intentions. Apparently, there had been a runestone buried beneath the village church for hundreds of years, and he would stop at nothing to absorb its power. When the townsfolk resisted, unwilling to let him desecrate their sacred building, he did not hesitate to destroy anything, or anyone, in his way. Brannon had been in the woods nearby, gathering timber, and was only alerted on his way back, when the horizon was dotted with fire where his hometown had been. He rushed back to find everyone slaughtered, and the mage Redmoor galloping away with his prize.

Alone, with no reason to stay, the young Brannon left the ruins of his village and traveled to the city of Light, where he became apprenticed to a swordsmith and began to learn the art of combat. Though Brannon’s hatred of mages was strong, he was not naïve. He knew that if he was to eventually find and kill the man that destroyed his home, he needed to fight fire with fire. So, through a long and arduous process, Brannon received the patronage from a local priest and was granted the power of runestones. He was sure to choose his carefully, only taking spells that would help him in tracking and slaying a mage.

Ever since then, Brannon has traveled, building his reputation as a mercenary and mage-killer. The city he called home for a short time has called him back, to help them do what he does best. He had never heard of this “Leveler”, but if he was lucky, maybe she could lead him to the man that had eluded him for twenty years.

[Azazeal849]

I like it. Adding to OP.

EDIT - Also Kris is evidently special and has posted her character in her archive thread rather than here. :P So I will link that too.

[.Karma.]

Kris; OI, post your character here so it can easily be linked and found. Don't makes me get out out the whip... Errr or something you don't actually like ;)

[Kris]

But I'm special :D

[.Karma.]

Nuuuupe. I will take you to MY office ;)

[Azazeal849]

To be fair, it may make things easier for everyone to have everything in the one thread. Could you copy Ambie to a post here as well please?

[OmegaW0lfe]

Can the mage have shape-shifting abilities due to a rune?

[Derpnaster]

From what I have guessed so far, polymorphic magic is one of the things we’re not allowed to touch at the moment.

[Azazeal849]

Correct. Such runes are theorised to exist, because the Mer can do it (the legends call these runes the “Greater Moonstones” because in human religion the Greater Moon God created the Mer, so shapeshifting is assumed to be part of his sphere). However, real life examples have yet to be found.

[Price]

I am close to finishing my character, but I had a couple of questions.

1.) What would you say would be youngest age for a wizard to be realistically considered an upper tier magic user, especially if magic was learned secondary to physical combat? The character in mind would have been training as soon as he had learned to walk. Would thirty-seven be too young?

2.) How do you feel about a sort of secret order of assassins and warriors existing in this world? My idea's inspiration comes from a sort of Knights Templar meets monk monastery, but members act more of their own accord using their talents as they see fit.

[Azazeal849]

1.) What would you say would be youngest age for a wizard to be realistically considered an upper tier magic user, especially if magic was learned secondary to physical combat? The character in mind would have been training as soon as he had learned to walk. Would thirty-seven be too young?

One of the things that makes runestones so dangerous is that proficiency is instant - as soon as you touch a rune, you understand the spell it casts and how to cast it. In theory, there’s nothing to stop a child from being able to wield magic...though in practice they might not have the wisdom to know when and when not to cast it, and they would probably do irreparable damage to their still-developing bodies very quickly.

So yes, 37 is perfectly reasonable for someone who has had the time to gather many runes, learn their own limits, and gain some experience in how best to take down other magic-users. He would also still be young enough to not be debilitated yet by frequent magic use.


2.) How do you feel about a sort of secret order of assassins and warriors existing in this world? My idea's inspiration comes from a sort of Knights Templar meets monk monastery, but members act more of their own accord using their talents as they see fit.

I’ve already allowed one “shadow” organisation into the story in the form of the Seekers (requested by Derp), so I’m not keen on adding another. If you want something Knights Templar-ish though, you could make him part of an order that the Shattered Gods priesthood employ to guard their temples across the Valley?

[Derpnaster]

Considering we literally have an order of mage warriors dedicated to keeping Runes in check in order to prevent a prophecy of doom and destruction. With literal Druids, I think we’ve gone pretty far down the whole Secret Otder rabbit hole. Magically assisted crusaders seems chill enough. And I wonder how these people will react to a person who literally takes powerful magics and throws them somewhere men will never find.

[Kris]

Profile: The ambassador

https://img00.deviantart.net/6ae3/i/2017/242/e/3/whitecap_bay_by_thekucing-dayduh9.jpg

The daughter of the sea, and important mer priestess. Capable of some levels of mystical skills such as telepathy and emotional understanding. Can conjure images in water or in one’s mind if close enough.

Real name unknown.

She appears to search for the right people in her quest to stop a possible crisis. She is pure of heart and mind, and seem to be able to display a mystical abilities.

When above water, her skin is slightly blue. Her hair extremely long and shines in unnatural bright red. Her eyes are azure blue and her skin is very pale.

----------------------------


Race: The Mer.

The Mer are Shapeshifters; according to human religion they were created by the Elder Brother God.

Even if they can have a form of humans in the land, they are not exactly human per se. They are living far longer than humans, but they have urgent water withdrawal, and must bathe every so often. When they die they turn to seafoam and because of that even reviving magic does not work on them. As they shift to look human like, they still keep some kind of a special look. Their skin is slightly gray blue or green and they sometimes still keep their scales.

Mer are atheist- they believe runes coalesced from elemental force instead of gods which often cause religious war to be invoked against them. They enjoy collecting knowledge (ocean of wisdom) and keep to themselves.

The merfolk had a war with the land-dwelling humans several generations ago and retreated to the sea, and only very few are seen above water nowadays.

Culturally, Mer are matriarchal and underwater they don't speak, but communicate with gesture and clicking sound- they are able to pass their thoughts in the water to the others of their kin, and some do display ability of telepathy and high emotional understanding if people get close to them.

[Kiro Akira]

So can someone @mention me when I'm needed o.o I'll still peek here and there but if we're not starting for another week or two then well yea o-o

[Azazeal849]

Don’t worry Kiro, we’ll let you know! Just waiting on everyone else who’s expressed interest to post. I’m going to set an application deadline for FRIDAY 27th and a provisional start date of MONDAY 30th unless we get the intro written sooner.

[Kiro Akira]

Sounds good :D Thanks

[Price]

I’ve already allowed one “shadow” organisation into the story in the form of the Seekers (requested by Derp), so I’m not keen on adding another. If you want something Knights Templar-ish though, you could make him part of an order that the Shattered Gods priesthood employ to guard their temples across the Valley?

I can adjust but before I create a different backstory I do have a question. In the world you've created, is there somewhere specific that one might train in swordsmanship, practically from birth, under the tutelage of an accomplished master?

[Azazeal849]

Sounds like something an aristocratic family in one of the big cities might have access to. Or he might have served in one of the armies.

[Price]

Thanks

[Azazeal849]

A friendly reminder for anyone who is still thinking of joining, the deadline for character sheets is FRIDAY. C:

[Kiro Akira]

Friday? (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfVsfOSbJY0)

[Azazeal849]

I love how the next suggested video is another Rebecca Black song...called “Saturday”!

[Kiro Akira]

Is it? I didnt look xD

[Azazeal849]

https://www.geek.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/GoodNewsEveryone-625x350.jpg

Kris and I are working on an opening post now.

Ayros and Price, if you are still looking to join then please have your CS posted by Friday or we will have to start without you.

[Price]

https://www.geek.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/GoodNewsEveryone-625x350.jpg

Kris and I are working on an opening post now.

Ayros and Price, if you are still looking to join then please have your CS posted by Friday or we will have to start without you.

Don't worry, I have something in the works.

Edit:

Crap...my whole character got erased when I posted that. I'll be starting from scratch, but I will have it ready.

[OmegaW0lfe]

I'm interested in joining but if the deadline for an application is the 27th I'm going to have to pass, I wont have stable internet until the 2nd and I'm typing this from my phone. Really don't want to type on the phone more than I have too. Good luck with the story, looks and sounds fun

[Kiro Akira]

Well dude you could always just join late o.o

- - - Updated - - -


https://www.geek.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/GoodNewsEveryone-625x350.jpg

Kris and I are working on an opening post now.

Ayros and Price, if you are still looking to join then please have your CS posted by Friday or we will have to start without you.



Without me? D: but i make this story a story

[Azazeal849]

Yeah, OmegaW0lfe; if it’s a case of not having internet then I’ll make an exception and let you apply late - hopefully you’ll only miss the first round of posts.

[Price]

True Name: Colvin Quinn
Mage Name: The Wraith
Age: 37
Appearance: Colvin stands a tall six feet and four inches and weighs just over two hundred pounds of toned muscle and very little fat, looking a near perfect athletic specimen. His coconut colored eyes are complimented by sandy brown hair that is cut jagged and short. The scars on his body are far too numerous to count, but most are just nicks that his master gifted him during training. He does, however, have two very notable ones. The first is a deep mark that starts just below his left eye and extends to just past his jaw chin. It is the rarely seen, as it is normally hidden by the iron mask that Colvin never takes off even to sleep. The last blemish is a long track only slightly more shallow than the first. It starts on his chest directly below his right nipple and extends down past his stomach to the left side of the pancreas. He doesn't talk about either wound, but he is very lucky to be alive.

The iron mask is nothing special. It is a simple design of solid silver color as his armor.

Personality:
- Composed and rather reserved in demeanor; stoic and hard to read
- Very religious
- Reluctant, if not outright apologetic, for his kills; will often pray for the soul of the departed victim
- A deep sense of morality and righteousness; only targets the unjust

Runestones:

Thunderbolt of the Gods - Colvin's twin swords crackle and spark to life as an electrical current, unharmful to the spellcaster, runs through them, shocking whatever they come into contact with; individual bolts of lightning can be discharged from the tips of the swords like bullets from a gun. The bolt strike range is ten yards with damage dealt more severe with closer proximity. This is a spell that is not very taxing and thus can be multiple times a day with no immediate complications.

Firestorm- Colvin's twin swords burst into unquenchable flames. Balls of flame are able to be cast from the tips of the swords. The flame ball strike range is ten yards with damage dealt more severe with closer proximity. This is a spell that is not very taxing and thus can be multiple times a day with no immediate complications.

Reaper's Gaze- Colvin's eyes flash black as a mist surrounds him, anyone caught looking into his eyes or caught in the surrounding mist (ten-yard perimeter around Colvin who is the radius of the circle) is trapped in a hallucination of their worst nightmare. This is a tiring spell that can be used only once every forty-eight hours.

Final Resort- Colvin's most powerful spell is a defensive spell that is limited use. After using an incantation, Colvin can teleport precisely one mile from his location. The spell is so dangerous that it is only used in the most critical of emergencies. After its use, Colvin is violently ill and coughing up blood. Because Colvin has only ever used it once, the amount of times it can be used is unknown. In theory, he may be able to use it an infinite number of times in a single day; but since one use left him bedridden for days, it is far more likely that such usage would kill him. He would only consider using this spell if not doing so would mean his death.

Stuff:
-Twin steel blades that he crafted himself upon the completion of his training under his swordmaster. The blades are thirty-five inches long, and the hilts are ten inches long.
-Colvin wears an iron mask for facial protection and intimidation.
-Colvin's armor is lightweight to accommodate his superior agility. He wears a brown, leather tristan tunic with shoulder and chest plates beneath, matching leather pants, and knee-high black ren boots.
- A riding horse.

Languages: Rise is his first language, but he is conversationally fluent in light. He is not very familiar with the culture of the City of Ash, and as such he knows only very basic phrases and speaks those phrases in very broken Ash.

Background: Colvin was born to a wealthy family in the City of Rise and was treated to the best of everything. When the young boy emphatically declared to his parents that he wanted to become a knight, no financial expense was spared in finding Colvin the very best teacher in all the lands. That teacher happened to be a nomad, the man with no name. As sketchy as he looked, the man proved himself to be the best swordsman that Colvin's family had ever seen. He trained Colvin for three entire years before the shock came. On a cool autumn night, Colvin shot awake to the sound of a piercing scream. His feet carried him as fast as they could toward the noise, into his parents' room. He found a figure standing above his parents' bed. Both were dead, swords plunged into their chests. Colvin trembled before the figure shrouded in darkness, but when the figure came closer...it was his master.

It was then that everything was revealed. His master was no more than an assassin, his parents had attained their wealth through extortion, theft, and the deaths of several prominent members of their higher class society. An eight-year-old Colvin didn't understand any of this, but he was quickly whisked away by his master regardless. The man with no name raised Colvin as his teacher and made a very unusual promise. Colvin would be trained until he was strong enough to surpass the master and enact revenge if he so chose. Colvin completed his training ten years ago, but he spared his master's life only to watch the man die a year later of natural causes leaving behind the locations of several runes for his pupil to take; for Colvin had passed his final test. After burying his master, Colvin took these runes and continued his master's work.

In the present, Colvin has inherited quite the reputation. He took the mantle of his master, the Wraith, a name that has lived on every tongue of every kingdom...a ghost story told around a campfire. The Wraith has seen the unrest caused by the Leveler and has decided that it is time for her judgment. He has yet to decide whether she is deserving of death or whether she is on her own righteous path. He hopes to meet her and decide for himself what course to take.

[Scottie]

I'm gonna throw my hat into the ring here!


True Name: Agrona Cathasach
Mage Name: The Wanderer.
Age: 30
Appearance: Easily appearing a decade older than she is, the years have been cruelly etched onto her face. Her hands are tough and covered in small scars. A brand on her cheek is faded but eerily prominent against her pale skin. A cluster of freckles dance over her nose and dull green eyes glare at passers-by. Thick dark hair reaches her waist but always sits in a tightly tied bun by the nape of her neck. She stands at a modest 5’7 and thick angry scars riddle her frail looking body. If it were not for the rage that radiates from her, she would be easily mistaken from non-threatening.

Personality: Agrona tries to keep to herself but fails frequently. An ever-bubbling rage lies under the surface. Quick to argue, she doesn’t make friends easily. Some aspects of her personality scream ex slave, she is paranoid and doubts any kind gesture. It takes a while to successfully get past the hardened outer shell and deep down, she is a broken woman who is struggling through each day as it comes.

Runestones: Spells that your character currently knows.

Dust to dust: When first acquired, it was a pitiful drift of dust past her fingertips. Having hid the rune for nearly a decade, she has honed the skill to a small sharp storm of dust. The dust can drift up over an unsuspecting soul and cover them in a fine film. The dust can last for 10 minute bursts but ends with a searing pain across her forehead.

Broken Skin: The rune can sooth pain that comes from wounds. It is akin to a cold towel pressed against a burning forehead. It lasts mere minutes before the pain returns. A thin strip of red brands her neck for the duration of the rune, forcing her to experience the pain that they are relieved from.

Kian’s Strength: The most powerful out of her runes and the most physically draining. The rune gifts her the strength of two grown men for two minutes. It can be used as many times as possible in one day, but every use has her losing four hours of energy. She has capped herself to two to three uses in one day.

Light the Way: Her most recently found rune. Allowing her to produce a small ball of light, it barely illuminates five feet around her. But it lasts for an hour. It can only be used once a day.

Stuff:
- A heavy blood crusted bronze pick.
- A small dagger with old dirty cloth wrapped around the hilt.
- A thin cloth bag that she hides by her ribs that contains her runes.

Languages: Native tongue is Ash. Knows a handful of phrases in Light and Rise.

Background: It was the fault of Agrona’s grandfather that her life began in the darkness. Debt riddled the old man until the only escape was to sell his youngest son to the mines. Back breaking work hardened the once hopeful young man, his opinions of the world were passed onto his children that survived their first year. Agrona was born to a world of shadows and pain. A runt of skin and bones, she was not expected to last her first month let alone her first year. Her mother said that Agrona survived just to spite them. A small frail child slowly blossomed into an angry weathered young woman. She was meant for something better than the darkness. Every shred of rebellion was torn from her skin, strip after strip.

It was under the hands of her third owner that she broke. Ninian prided himself in breaking the spirit of others. The year passed by in painful bursts of consciousness and an unnerving amount of memory blanks. For her 18th birthday, she was branded twice. Once with a large crude spiral on her right shoulder and then a small X on her left cheek. She was one of the most difficult slaves that Ninian had broken and he affectionally named her “Vexie”, which the overseers took to spitting at her at every chance. He took a shining to the young woman and Agrona’s life was never the same. She was barely 19 when she found herself pregnant by the hand of her owner. Kian was the spark she needed to fight again. In his eyes, there was hope. Kian was strapped to her back when she found her first rune. They had been told it was possible, that runes were from the earth. Any rune found had to be reported and left it in it’s place, not touched by any slave hand.

Agrona was never one for abiding by rules. It was a well-hidden secret, only brought out when all were asleep. She even kept it from her child, not trusting the innocent child to keep quiet when he needed to. The second rune was found three months before Kian’s 6th birthday. He looked more and more like his father with every passing day. It was only in his green speckled eyes and his snappy temper that she saw herself. His snappy temper did not fair him well, his half brothers and sisters took their anger out on him. Using the rune that she kept on her person always, she soothed the torture that they inflicted on him.

She did not find her third rune. Kian did. His dirty fingers wrapped around the small pebble and curiosity forced him to clean the muck from the pebble. The swirls were unknown to him, but every person raised in The City of Ash had a vague idea of what a rune should look like. A sharp squeal of childish laughter pierced through the eastern Section of Ninian’s mine that day. Laughter was never good, it felt like a rope had twisted around her heart and was tugging her closer to her child. Her call to him was interrupted by another sharp squeal of joy as the boy crushed a small bronze hammer between his palms, forcing it to turn to dust by his feet and soon he was turning to the next item a heavy bronze pick. The feat of strength was not only noticed by his mother but by those who oversaw the workers. Kian was immediately happened on by a man twice his size. One that the small child floored in a single pitiful kick. Another squeal of laughter echoed as the boy called out to his mother.

Agrona knew what was happening. He wasn’t having a tantrum, he wasn’t playing a game. He had found something that he shouldn’t have. She forced herself to run to her child, her breath tore through her and her knees screamed at her to stop. He was mere steps away when blood bubbled from his neck. A thin deep line left by the overseer’s dagger. Small stupid runes, like the control over a pitiful amount of dust, could be easily passed over. A rune that gave a child the strength of a grown man….could not be so easily forgotten. Especially when his mother hid his name, calling him only pet names in case a day like this came. The pebble fell from his fingertips as his body folded in on himself. Agrona arrived in time to catch him as he slumped, already harsh pleas leaving her lips.

His blood soaked her skin as orders were screeched from above her, demanding that she move. The rune needed to be sourced and hidden from the slaves. As fingertips gripped her shoulder, a burning rage flooded through every fibre of her body. A man who attempts to separate a grieving mother from her child is foolish and only a fool would attempt to reason with Agrona that day. Her child’s lifeless body thumped to the floor as the bronze pick by her side contacted with the man’s stomach. Warm blood hit her face as she stood, the pick still tight in her grip as she advanced upon the screaming man. The slaves that remained to tell the story remarked on how a mothers rage had gifted her the strength to smash the man’s skull to pieces in a single blow. Older slaves kept the true story to themselves, a keen eye was all that was needed to see Agrona pluck up the dirty pebble as it fell by her sons side. They knew the truth but she deserved a head start at least.

Agrona will not speak of how she escaped that day. It is not something she is proud of and she will change the subject if someone asks. The last two years have been spent wandering the lands outside Ash. She does not settle in one place for long, fearful of someone forcing her back to the mines. Gentle whispers on the wind told her that the city had been taken over, that the slaves were freed. Agrona would never return to Ash, but she knew better than to think slaves ever truly free from their oppressors. Knowing better than to tell anyone her name, she went as Vexie until someone called her the wandering slave. She changed it and has been called The Wanderer ever since.

Joining a group of mercenary wizards was never her plan, but she needed coin and being in a powerful group was safer. Mostly she joined out of curiosity, the Leveller freed the slaves of her home city…why? What is their motive with those she once knew?

[Azazeal849]

Your hat is most welcome!

I like these characters...I like them both a lot.

[Price]

Your hat is most welcome!

I like these characters...I like them both a lot.

Are my character's runes too overpowered as they are?

[Azazeal849]

They look fine, but if the story starts showing particular people’s runes up to be stronger or weaker than everyone else’s I will allow them to adjust (or conspire for a weaker character to acquire a new rune). Anyone the characters fight will also roughly match their power level unless there’s a dramatic reason for them not to.

The opening IC post is nearly ready! It will feature the characters arriving at the Enlightened city by boat. There will be a bit of space to talk to each other and wander about a bit.

Alternatively if you want to flashback to characters introducing themselves to each other on the boat, or flashback to establish their character in some other way, then I don’t mind as long as they finish up in the right place by the end! C:

[Derpnaster]

Whelp time to get into a barfight with the nearest city authority ;P

[Splat]

I'm excited!

[Kiro Akira]

Totally going to curse out the first one to talk to me o:

Nah, derp need help with the bar fight?

[Derpnaster]

I heard co-post that puts us both outside the city gates? With extra violence and glass breaking?

[Kiro Akira]

Co post sounds fun o.o maybe in the next few days

[Azazeal849]

I heard co-post that puts us both outside the city gates? With extra violence and glass breaking?

Don’t get into too many bar fights - I notice that only Scottie’s character has anything approaching a healing spell. :P

[Kiro Akira]

Healing? << Psh, fire sounds like it fits better.

[Kris]

I KNOW!

LET'S USE FIRE TO BURN THE WOUND!!

I mean >.>

*swims along*

[Kiro Akira]

Well "burning" the wound is a known remedy for assisting in stopping blood <,< On top of that it sterilizes the wound from further infection and such so....

[Derpnaster]

Well "burning" the wound is a known remedy for assisting in stopping blood <,< On top of that it sterilizes the wound from further infection and such so....
^
Tis correct cauterizing a wound is a common field procedure for severe damage, like losing a limb or getting your lung forcefully removed, though the second one is a little more complicated.

[Azazeal849]

To stop bleeding yes; to sterilise no. Burns are very susceptible to infection.

Burning your surgical implements to sterilise them is a good idea though.

[Azazeal849]

Kiro Akira; Derpnaster; Splat; Scottie; Price; OmegaW0lfe;

A wee surprise for you - Kris and I finished the opener a little ahead of schedule, so the IC is up (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=91289) one day early! Don't say we don't treat you guys.

The short version: your characters are now in the City and as long as you end up in the plaza where the rest of the mercenaries are mustering, we're pretty free and easy about you taking little character-establishing detours along the way. Flashbacks are okay too - what happened before and during the boat ride (and if you want to get to know your fellow characters during the ride or now that you've arrived) is up to you guys.

The "Secrets" are little flashbacks that will reveal more about the main antagonists as we progress.

Any questions, just ask!

[Derpnaster]

So who's up for a flashback co post featuring glorious Violence?

[Splat]

I'm always up for violence, if the mage-slayer Raven fits into your idea.

[Derpnaster]

I'm always up for violence, if the mage-slayer Raven fits into your idea.

I heard, someone is getting in a bit of tussle with some mages, the question is which one starts the fighting and which one finishes it?

[Splat]

Feel free to PM me and we can discuss ;)

[Kiro Akira]

I'm still looking to this bar fight xD

Also will try to get something up this week hopefully thursday

[Derpnaster]

I'm still looking to this bar fight xD

Also will try to get something up this week hopefully thursday

I should probably make it a Google doc then so it can be a three man fight

[Kiro Akira]

I have a website we can use o.o

[Azazeal849]

Well, while those three tear up the local pub...

Scottie and Price, if you would like some co-postage of your own (with existing or new NPCs), just let me know. C:

[Kiro Akira]

https://oasis.sandstorm.io/shared/vXQYkh60nV4Qm56POkn96lHVN_astkzf870pC2kGgfE <----------------Place where all 3 of us (and anyone else who joins in) can all fight in the bar xD

[Scottie]

I doubt my character would partake in a bar fight XD There would be too much attention especially when she was just learning to "tolerate" the others XD

I may take you up on some NPC stuffs, Azzie. But I'll have a wee think today before I confirm!! :3

[Derpnaster]

Alright I got us set up for some glorious table breaking violence.

[Kiro Akira]

Added to our post Derp o.o

- - - Updated - - -

Just haven't finished it so give me some time xD

[Azazeal849]

Splat, will you be pitching in on Derp and Kiro’s co-post?

[Splat]

Yup, I just have been a bit busy lately. Planning on getting something up asap.

[Azazeal849]

Okay, happy bar-fighting!

[Kiro Akira]

Can i add a rune just for the bar fight?

- - - Updated - - -

Also, gotta say i love this post already

[Azazeal849]

What would you be adding?

[Kiro Akira]

Sleight of hand:

Infusing his hands with magic he can swap the placement of two objects. While the objects can be no larger then a baseball, he can quickly move the two. Although the larger the object the more noticeable it is.


Just a shit rune but something i can use to progress the bar fight o.o

[Scottie]

https://i.giphy.com/media/mks5DcSGjhQ1a/giphy.webp

[Azazeal849]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qty_6JqsWNA

And Scottie wins the first reply award!


Sleight of hand: Infusing his hands with magic he can swap the placement of two objects. While the objects can be no larger then a baseball, he can quickly move the two. Although the larger the object the more noticeable it is.

Just a shit rune but something i can use to progress the bar fight o.o

Sure, you can include that.

[Kiro Akira]

Awesome :D

[Azazeal849]

At Kris' request, I have added some picture references for the five Enlightened to the first post!

[Kris]

About time!

Scorpie needed some love!

Fears to all!


p32b5nNq1zw

YrVXtZ-MD4k

[Azazeal849]

Hey, it isn’t Rose’s fault that she’s scared of the dark. :P

Though I agree with the Ambassador, no mage has a right to call themself “the Scorpion” if they’re afraid of creepy-crawlies.

I’ve taken a sneak peek at the co-post and it looks about done, so hopefully you’ll be seeing it soon. All I’ll say is that Orin is an ass, Killian is the reasonable one, and Brennan is hilarious.

[Kiro Akira]

Nothing about Solar tho xD wait hes Orin o.o

[Azazeal849]

Yep. He’s like a typical rude, hot-headed anime protagonist. :P

Also he makes puns. :D

So which of you guys is going to post the finished article?

[Kiro Akira]

Well come to the thread Az xD

[Azazeal849]

Cool, just one to go. Price; how are you getting on?

A couple of thoughts: the post refers to Splat's character as "Brennan" and "Raven" interchangeably which could get a bit confusing - could you add a line at his first introduction to state that that's his mage name (like you did with Orin)?

Edit: ignore the above, there already is a line stating this.

Also, I like the idea of using the colours to show who wrote what, but why only colour the spoken dialogue? :P

[Splat]

Az, I thought it did? In one of my first paragraphs I said that his name was "to himself" Brannon, and to everyone else it was "the Raven". Unless that got deleted somewhere along the way lol.

EDIT:

For the stranger, known to himself as Brannon and to all others as the Raven, there was no point to debate at all.

Found it, might have gotten lost in the text hehe

[Kiro Akira]

Cool, just one to go. Price; how are you getting on?

A couple of thoughts: the post refers to Splat's character as "Brennan" and "Raven" interchangeably which could get a bit confusing - could you add a line at his first introduction to state that that's his mage name (like you did with Orin)?

Also, I like the idea of using the colours to show who wrote what, but why only colour the spoken dialogue? :P

What do you mean exactly? o.o explain that first part to me.

Also I just did the dialogue because everyone had a part in almost every paragraph so it's not entirely sure who wrote what o.o Also I assumed the dialogue was what you wanted high lighted.

[Price]

Cool, just one to go. Price; how are you getting on?


Pretty good over here, just waiting for that co-post. I want to see it before I finish my post so I can get a feel for everyone's personality and Colvin's thoughts on them.

[Azazeal849]

What do you mean exactly? o.o explain that first part to me.

Wait, ignore me. It does say "Brennan, known to everyone else as the Raven", so it's fine as it is.


Also I just did the dialogue because everyone had a part in almost every paragraph so it's not entirely sure who wrote what o.o Also I assumed the dialogue was what you wanted high lighted.

Nah, all text, not just dialogue. That was you can respond to sights, or things people do, rather than just what they say. For example, you might post something like:

They passed shops that were shuttered closed, building sites where piles of brick and timber stood unworked, and shrines that were crammed back to the approaching streets with fearful, clamouring supplicants. Priests and priestesses in gold facemasks shouted to make themselves heard, urging the crowds to trust in the holy Enlightened. Orin could tell that the city was in trouble, even if he found the priests annoying. He covered his ears and walked on.

or

Davin pointedly avoided the open space and withdrew beneath another shop front, motioning for the others to join him. Orin did so, grateful for the shade.

[Price]

My bad y'all! I didn't realize that I forgot to subscribe to the IC thread. I've been waiting for it to pop up in my sub box XD

[Kiro Akira]

@Az I'll do that next time just like I said it was literally all mixed up and I had no idea x.x so I just went with that for now.

Hope everyone enjoys the Co-post

[Azazeal849]

I have written up the first plot mover, so it will be good to go as soon as Price posts. C:

[Kiro Akira]

Awesome :D

[Kiro Akira]

Just so everyone knows o.o

I'll be taking a 3-4 day Hiatus o.o got some things I need to deal with but yea. I'll still pop in like here and there to check messages but won't be able to do any posting.

[Azazeal849]

No worries Kiro, thanks for letting us know! C:

[Price]

Sorry, I feel like I am holding the rp up. I apologize for taking so long, and I am working on having my post up either by the end of tonight or early tomorrow. Allergy season is killing meh x(

[Azazeal849]

Don’t stress too much, Price - today or tomorrow will be fine.

[Azazeal849]

Cool that’s everybody introduced! C:

Kris would like a chance to write up the next section for the mer Ambassador (your characters will be meeting her soon enough) before I post the next update, so as long as everybody is fine with a couple of days wait we should be moving on next Tuesday or Wednesday.

[Kris]

Delaying with the posts! Work is super stressful! but will get to it!

[Price]

Delaying with the posts! Work is super stressful! but will get to it!

Boooo! Look at that, Kris's country wins Eurovision one time and she already gets all big-headed slacker on us. :P

[Azazeal849]

Kris has a busy work schedule for the next few days, so Ambie’s section may take a bit longer. If you guys would rather not wait then I can throw up a plot mover for you, otherwise take five and enjoy your weekends! C:

[Kris]

Guys, I'm terribly sorry. I'm just so tired, you'll have to bear with me for few more days!

[Azazeal849]

But in the meantime, I've added a little sneak preview for you in the MAJOR NPCs section of the opening post - Agents of the Leveler (https://role-player.net/forum/showthread.php?t=90995&p=2972424&viewfull=1#post2972424).

[Price]

Guys, I'm terribly sorry. I'm just so tired, you'll have to bear with me for few more days!

I'm sure you are tired....must be really tired after all that Eurovision partying xP

[Scottie]

Eurovision was certainly draining!! But don't worry Kris. We know that life can take its toll!!

[Azazeal849]

Alright guys, the next GM post is UP!

A tactical problem for you - there are five of you, and five enemy mages. Face them outside the walls, stand your ground, or try and talk?

There is also a mermaid disguised as a snake priest Zorro-ing her way up to you, courtesy of Kris.

[Kiro Akira]

I just read it and trying to figure out whats going on xD

[Splat]

I liked the post. (Just want to add though, it’s Brannon, not Brennan ;p)

[Derpnaster]

Whelp, Killian lacks in offensive magic, so I'm for the let's not fight the mages unless we have to. And even then taking them up in close quarters is not a very good idea. Then again Killian is probably better suited to minion hunting that taking on powerful boss characters. Just as planned.

[Kiro Akira]

I won't be free to post til friday as a heads up

[Azazeal849]

Not a problem, Kiro.


I liked the post. (Just want to add though, it’s Brannon, not Brennan ;p)

Oops! Sorry Splat!


Whelp, Killian lacks in offensive magic, so I'm for the let's not fight the mages unless we have to. And even then taking them up in close quarters is not a very good idea. Then again Killian is probably better suited to minion hunting that taking on powerful boss characters. Just as planned.

I fully expect one of the bosses to stomp over and demand that he pick on somebody his own size.

[Underblank]

are you still recruiting?
and how many spells can someone start out with?

[Azazeal849]

Since we’re only just starting, I would consider adding in another player at a convenient point. Most players have opted for 3 or 4 spells, so aim for that.

PM me your character ideas and we can discuss.

[Underblank]

Alright!

[Underblank]

True Name: Sage Nightingale

Mage Name: The Illusion

Age: 22

Appearance: Sage stands about 5'8 with a toned female physique. Her hair is a ruby red color that slightly passes her shoulder blades. Her skin tone is a warm tan complexion with an infectious glow that usually draws the wrong attention. Her eyes are a fierce hazel that show more green during the day, but transitions to a roasted almond color at night.

Personality: Sage is known for her kind words and open heart. She labels herself a "peacekeeper" as she hates the rising of conflict. She can become easily flustered, but locks down her focus when it is needed. Sage also likes to laugh and joke way too much, which can get her in trouble from time to time, but is very charismatic and charming.



Refract: Sage slowly starts to bend the light around her, causing her opponent to see three copies of herself. These "clones" can't physically hurt you, but they can make it seem as she as it was the real one. After a clone is hit, it slowly fades and the light begins to balance out. This is a skill she is well known for so it doesn't take a toll on her body. She suffers from slight migraines the longer she uses it.

Lightscreen: One of her best defensive moves, lightscreen offers a small shield of light that can block a few attacks or projectiles. After the screen is broken, the light in the area shines bright and gives Sage a chance to re position(if needed). This skill isn't very taxing on her, but the amount the screen takes is proportioned to her in small increments.

Heaven's Dance: Sage begins to soak in the rays of the sun as her body becomes a beacon of light. The light shines brightly and renders her opponent temporarily blind. She appears to "flash" around the battlefield, but it's just her opponent's perception of her at this given time. She uses this ability to quickly approach her enemy for a fatal blow. If she sustains this ability too long, she will begin to suffer from nosebleeds and may pass out.

Moonlight's Fall: Sage can only use this skill at night when the moon is visible. Whatever phase of the moon is at determines the outcome of her skill. She circles herself with miniature moons that rapidly spin around her. She then hurls the moons towards her enemy, but they don't take damage. A few seconds later, the moons will appear on her enemy and they will suffer from traumatic illusions due to the night (it kind of plays off of common fears). Her enemy will be left delusional and an easy target for her to finish off. This is a once a day spell and causes Sage's bones to slightly fracture, which can put her out of a fight if not careful.



Sage carries s rapier that was given to her by her father, a necklace with a bronze mirror locket that was given to her by her mother, and a small dagger. She normally wears a breezy white blouse with black tights to make everyday living easier.


Languages: She is fluent in Light and Ash with some understanding of Rise. She spent most of her days learning the languages of others.


Growing up in the City of Enlightened was pure bliss for Sage. She had strong, loving parents, a great town to live in, and a close group of friends. Her mother (Scarlet) was a native to the City of Enlightened while her father (Blaine) was from the City of Ash. The family was picture perfect, until a few months after Sage's birthday. A revolt began; the City of Ash has been overturned by the Leveler, and she began to form an army to attack the City of Enlightened. Blaine tried his best to convince Sage and Scarlet to join her revolt, but her mother refused. A fight broke out in their home and ended in silence. Blaine had driven his hand through Scarlet's chest, murdered in cold blood. Blaine didn't want the same fate for Sage so he gave her an ultimatum; join the revolt or join her mother in death. With reluctance, she joined her father and the Leveler's army only plotting the murder of her father to avenge her mother. She had no intentions to join this army, but only to fight with the Enlightened City to put a stop to this revolt once and for all.

[Azazeal849]

A request and a suggestion, Underblank:

First, the revolution in Ash happened months ago rather than years, so could you change her background to reflect that? She could still have easily picked up her runes in that time, and of course the minute you touch a rune you know exactly how to use the spell associated with it.

The suggestion comes from Kris. Did Sage grow up in the Ash city rather than the Light city? If so, perhaps she joined the Leveler’s army for an opportunity to get within striking distance of her dad? This would put her opposite the other players in the pending fight, but she could be captured (or defect) and join them after the telepathic Ambassador verifies her story.

[Underblank]

i'll edit it, but she grew up in the Light City with her parents (i'll add that in). And i like that idea of going undercover to seek her revenge. I'll begin to update her background !!!

[Azazeal849]

Okay cool. If she's joined the Leveler's army then there are some extra things she would know that I will send to you in a PM.

I will add her to the group of Leveler mages that have just walked up to the walls of the Enlightened City.

[Kiro Akira]

Solar by Kiro Akira (please quote their text in gold)
The Archer by Derpnaster (please quote their text in silver)
The Raven by Splat (please quote their text in lime)
The Wanderer by Scottie (please quote their text in orange)
The Wraith by Price (please quote their text in yellow)
The Illusion by Underblank (please quote their text in pink)
The Ambassador by Kris (please quote their text in cyan)


Kiro needs a cool name xD

Everyone has "The ___" Then theres just.... Solar
xD

I must come up with something o:

[Kiro Akira]

The Flare! o: I like that one

Like Solar Flare <<

[Kiro Akira]

Not a problem, Kiro.



Oops! Sorry Splat!



I fully expect one of the bosses to stomp over and demand that he pick on somebody his own size.

I told them to pick on their own size and screw off << That work?

[Underblank]

I posted today! But I’ll have to edit it because I forgot some things

[Azazeal849]

All good - Kris and I are going to wait for another couple of posts before we start killing you all replying.

[Underblank]

I’d say we are at a point (maybe) where we can start fighting... buuuuuut that’s just my opinion 🤣

[Scottie]

Oh don't start the fight without me!! D: I'll get a post up by tomorrow!!

[Underblank]

Ahhhh. Post it up Scottie!!!!!

[Scottie]

Essentially.

Aggie views Solar ( Kiro Akira; ) like :

https://i.giphy.com/media/MloN2Wq530qiI/giphy.webp

And her reaction to him is like:

https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/enhanced/webdr03/2013/4/22/19/anigif_enhanced-buzz-23939-1366672687-1.gif

[Azazeal849]

Haha soon, Underblank! Give the others a chance to post first. C:

Splat, Price, Derpnaster - do you guys have anything you want to add?

[Derpnaster]

Aside from Killian’s general mistrust of the Enlightened and their exuberant use of magic for what he sees as pointless and frivolous reasons. I’m not sure what I could add.

[Azazeal849]

Yep, that’s the Enlightened - showboat-y and pompous as hell. :P

And Killian’s preferred strategy for the likely coming fight?

[Derpnaster]

Hmm, probably stay back at first. Fire volleys at the foe for as long as is feasible then engage them in melee. Killian doesn’t really use his Runes for combat when he can just dispatch them with a blade. He also would go in chanting off names should he fight a wizard, hope he gets lucky then drop them before the magic turns back on.

[Underblank]

I’m also thinking since I’m on the opposing side of y’all, I could co post with one of you while they fight and have Sage explain her being with the other side and try to get back into her hometown.

[Splat]

Brann doesn’t really have any offensive spells, especially since he’s used to fighting mages one-on-one as opposed to in a grand battle. So he’d probably hang back until the battle reaches him. Unless one of the mages happens to challenge him to a mano-y-mano duel lmao.

Also, question on magic. Does the casting of spells require a semantic gesture, like a wave of the hand? Or do you have to utter a word of power? Or both? I’m just curious to know if there’s some way to prevent a mage from casting spells.

[Underblank]

Sorry, forgot to add this in my last post, but I’ll have another post up tonight with Sage talking to you all.(indirectly of course)

[Kiro Akira]

Essentially.

Aggie views Solar ( Kiro Akira; ) like :

https://i.giphy.com/media/MloN2Wq530qiI/giphy.webp

And her reaction to him is like:

https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/enhanced/webdr03/2013/4/22/19/anigif_enhanced-buzz-23939-1366672687-1.gif


Psh << Solar over here like




https://inmyskinnygenes.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/take-a-step-back-i-got-this.jpg

[Price]

Maybe? I'm a bit confused what is going on. Like I understand that there are potential threats speaking on behalf of the Leveler warning us to stand down, but I thought we were all a bit separated? I thought that there was a group of us at the bar and then my character wandering around the dock lost in thought. Everybody's posts are great, but they are also packed with plenty of content so I think I missed something. How are we all being communicated with if we are all separated?

[Kiro Akira]

Well that whole bar fight and everything before was a prologue type of thing to my understanding. And our story started off with the last GM post

[Azazeal849]

He also would go in chanting off names should he fight a wizard, hope he gets lucky then drop them before the magic turns back on.

I admire your creativity, but you also need a person's mother's name to make a Naming work (i.e. you have to call them "X, child of Y", like Leveler did to the Watchman in the intro).


I’m also thinking since I’m on the opposing side of y’all, I could co post with one of you while they fight and have Sage explain her being with the other side and try to get back into her hometown.

Yep, I am happy for you to do that. After everyone who wants to has posted once, I'll make another GM post moving everybody into position.


Also, question on magic. Does the casting of spells require a semantic gesture, like a wave of the hand? Or do you have to utter a word of power? Or both? I’m just curious to know if there’s some way to prevent a mage from casting spells.

All you need to cast a spell is willpower, but lots of mages like to use gestures as a focus / muscle memory sort of thing. And others focus using words or even prayers if they are religious and see the Runes as a holy invocation of the Shattered Gods. It all depends on the individual wizard, but as it all boils down to thinking about the magical effect you want to create, Raven could indeed make it harder for his opponents to cast by distracting them or breaking their focus.


Maybe? I'm a bit confused what is going on. Like I understand that there are potential threats speaking on behalf of the Leveler warning us to stand down, but I thought we were all a bit separated? I thought that there was a group of us at the bar and then my character wandering around the dock lost in thought.

As Kiro says, the bar fight was a character-establishing flashback to several days ago. The group has been together since they got off the boat, went to the plaza, and then rushed to the walls to meet the approaching army.

[Kiro Akira]

I’m also thinking since I’m on the opposing side of y’all, I could co post with one of you while they fight and have Sage explain her being with the other side and try to get back into her hometown.


IN THE MAGICAL WORDS OF SCOTTIE



https://i.giphy.com/media/MloN2Wq530qiI/giphy.webp

[Price]

Ooh okay, sorry about my confusion.

[Azazeal849]

Don't sweat it. C:


IN THE MAGICAL WORDS OF SCOTTIE

Haha if you could please hold off until the next GM post (so Price and Splat can post), that would be great!

[Kiro Akira]

Don't sweat it. C:



Haha if you could please hold off until the next GM post (so Price and Splat can post), that would be great!

Do what I want D:

[Azazeal849]

Do what I want D:

Don’t make me use your True Name! *stare*

EDIT - Price is probably going to pass for now; just waiting on a confirmation from Splat.

[Kiro Akira]

Don’t make me use your True Name! *stare*

EDIT - Price is probably going to pass for now; just waiting on a confirmation from Splat.

Do it! >( Solar dares you.

About to stand off with a bunch of mages and I'm sure him losing his actual offensive power would be a great start xD

[Azazeal849]

I’m still waiting on a yes/no from Splat, but while I’m waiting I’ll work on the next GM post so it’s hopefully ready to go by the end of tomorrow.

[Splat]

Oh! Sorry haha. Feel free to go ahead and post without me, I can't think of much interesting to add.

[Kiro Akira]

Blarg

[Azazeal849]

Alright guys, here we go!

I have posted the update - white text is for everybody, whereas the colour-coded later sections are relevant to single characters. I have gone by the colour coding in the very first post in this thread, so:

Text for Kiro is gold.
Text for Derp is silver.
Text for Splat is lime.
Text for Price is yellow.
Text for Scottie is orange.
Text for Underblank is pink.
Text for Kris is cyan.

Essentially, each of you is now squaring off against one of the Leveler’s mages (apart from Underblank, who is squaring off against the Scorpion). Whether you fight alone, or team up, or try to gather Light soldiers to help you, or try to talk your way out, or just try to run away...is up to you!

If you would like to write your fight as a co-post, just let me know.

[Underblank]

I think we’d get a better understanding of Sage’s backstory and such if we did a co-op fight post w/ The scorpion, plus it would be pretty bad ass ☺️

[Azazeal849]

Okay! Do you have google docs?

[Underblank]

I do not, but I can get it!

[Underblank]

Alright. I have it now!

[Kiro Akira]

I've never used Google Docs ._.

I use Sandstorm o:

[Azazeal849]

Happy to use that too. Same link as before?

[Kiro Akira]

https://oasis.sandstorm.io/shared/Lpff9DL36VR-acv9CNfXofELAp7Bd0JEmaglm4QqNYO

Derp, Splat, ANYONE else, this is where I plan on doing my fight ^^^^^^Here^^^^^^

So if you wanna join in go for it o: Or if you just wanna use the link just for the sake of using it for your own fight then yea.

[Splat]

Brannon's got his own mage to worry about, but I will definitely be keeping a watchful eye on that copost… >:)

[Azazeal849]

We can write Brannon's fight as a separate co-post in the same doc, if you like.

[Splat]

Sounds fine to me, though I wont be able to work on it tonight.

[Kiro Akira]

Well I finished part 1 of my post xD

If I add anything else don't worry will just be minor details to progress things/Prolong my post with bullshit because I want it to be longer.

[Derpnaster]

Looks like it's time to get to the shooting.

[Underblank]

How do we start a google doc thread?

[Kiro Akira]

By saying screw Google Doc <<

https://oasis.sandstorm.io/shared/1c-YZMw2UTni4KcHLXywRSNY170VOP0ebPH2jxPrD6C
^^^^^^^
Better link :D

[Derpnaster]

How do we start a google doc thread?

If you are using Google Chrome and are signed in you can create a new tab, then at the top right corner of your screen you'll see a grid icon. Click on the grid Icon then select the Triangle Icon which should say Drive below it.
In drive click on the rainbow colored + with "NEW" next to it, and select Google Docs. That will create a blank document that has no title. You can give it a title at the top of the page and at the top right you should see a giant blue Share button, you can use that to share the doc with others. To share here click the button, give your doc a title if you haven't yet. Then at the top right of the share with others popup click get a shareable link, it should look like a chain. there you can edit the settings for the link itself, namely the permissions the link allows, then you can copy the link and past it anywhere to share.

Edit:
I'm not sorry, I'm an IT nerd ask away for technical questions.

[Azazeal849]

Underblank and Kiro’s posts are progressing nicely. C:

[Underblank]

I meant to type more last night, but I fell asleep with my laptop on the bed 🤣🤣🤣

[Azazeal849]

The next bit is over to Kris - she said she will hopefully have time later today to write.

[Azazeal849]

Kiro Akira; Sandstorm document is ready for you to reply!

Kris; when you’re free, Underblank and I need your input in the google doc.

[Kiro Akira]

Will get to it when i can just busy last few days

[Kris]

Added a little!

[Azazeal849]

Status report: co-posts in progress with Scottie, Underblank and Price, one with Kiro is nearly finished.

Derpnaster; Splat; here if you need any input.

[Kiro Akira]

Az, wanna go look over everything one more time and then I'll post it?

[Splat]

Sorry I've been kind of dead, I should be able to start on the post soon.

[Snotgirl]

Well, I ended up dropping off for awhile there because I had to get a new computer. Any chance of still joining or is it too late?

[Derpnaster]

I am a tad busy getting ready for a trip so I'll be a tad slow to post for the next little while

[Azazeal849]

Okay, cool, thanks for the quick replies guys.

Snotgirl, I have sent you a PM.

[Kiro Akira]

Kaboom

[Azazeal849]

By my count, that leaves two posts done (Scottie finished hers today), two coming when peeps are less busy, and two in progress.

Underblank; Kris has replied - back to you. C:

[Price]

So I am on vacation for the next two weeks and the place that I am staying at until FRiday was supposed to have wi-fi, but it is pretty spotty. On top of that, my grandpa just went to the hospital for an emergency apendectomy. I am not exactly in a great head space right now, so I will try to have a post up soon but it might take longer than I originally expected...

[Azazeal849]

That’s fine, Price - and I hope your grandad is okay.

[Azazeal849]

“I’ve got more fight than you think, you Captain Hook wannabe.”

I know there's no way the people in this world have heard of Peter Pan, but that line was just too damn good. :D

[Kiro Akira]

Psh NPC a man named Captain Hook who is just a complete dick with a hook tattoo or something xD Make him a joke and everything :D

[Azazeal849]

Well, it’s been a week...where my wizards at?

[Derpnaster]

I just got back from my trip yesterday, I was too exhausted from travel though, I'll see about getting some post up soon ish.

[Azazeal849]

Was it a fun trip or a business trip?

[Derpnaster]

Fun, I went to a Warhammer convention over the weekend. Didn’t have internet access though because I didn’t pay for it.

[Underblank]

We here! I’ve just been super busy with work and life lately haha.

[Splat]

Sorry for being so dead lately. I wrote the start of the co-post and I'll put it up on the Oasis document soon.

[Azazeal849]

Okay, see you guys soon on Oasis (or in Underblank’s case, google doc)!

[Splat]

Started the co-post :)

[Azazeal849]

Replied, Splat; in case you hadn’t already seen it.

[Kiro Akira]

o-o

[Azazeal849]

Three down, three to go!

Two are in progress.

[Kiro Akira]

Yay progress :D

[Azazeal849]

Underblank’s post is nearly done, so when he reappears it should go up shortly after. Splat’s needs a few more rounds. Derp I think is still busy - I haven’t heard from him, at least.

I’ve pre-written the next GM post as well so there should be minimal delay once everyone’s done with their fights!

[Underblank]

Hey guys!
Sorry for the weird MIA from me. Someone quit where i work and i have to pick up their shifts until we hire someone new. Suuuper long days, but I think they are going to help me cover those shifts so I can actually LIVE AGAIN!!

[Azazeal849]

Speak of the devil!

Good to have you back, sir. C:

[Azazeal849]

And there’s our fourth!

Derpnaster how’s your schedule? If we could have everybody posted and be moving on by the end of next week, that would be ideal.

[Derpnaster]

I could work on something next week.

[Azazeal849]

A heads up for everyone: Kris and I will be moving you all forward on Saturday.

[Kiro Akira]

On Saturday? o: But that's today

[Azazeal849]

You’re right. I’m about to put up Underblank’s co-post myself as it’s nearly finished - UB if you want to add any more after then feel free to do so.

At the same time I’m going to post a conclusion to Act 1, so there will be a chance for people to take stock and talk among themselves. If after reading you decide you want to skip this round, please let me know.

[Kiro Akira]

I'm alright with jumping ahead unless someone else wants to talk to Solar.

[Underblank]

i'm officially back. Sorry for all of the confusion, but i'll be posting once act 2 is up and going :D

[Derpnaster]

Sorry for not posting, Life came up hard and fast. I might be able to join in again though.

[Azazeal849]

That’s alright - if you want to script a short fight between Killian and the Dark Man (PM for info) before we move on then go ahead.

[Derpnaster]

It's fine, we can assume Killian did the smart thing and got the hell out before things got out of hand. He knows that in a straight duel of magic he's not suited for that. If he could find a way to survive and trick them into drawing out a lot of power then he'd consider the odds, but if a fair fight against magic, well you don't get a fair fight with magic involved.

[Azazeal849]

Alright - if no-one else wants to do any character scenes (you lazy lot :D) then Kris and I shall move you on this evening.

Act 2 will start with a bit of free-form problem solving.

[Kiro Akira]

Kiro is interested in what's about to happen o-o but I'm confused on how to respond.

[Price]

Kiro is interested in what's about to happen o-o but I'm confused on how to respond.

I'm just not sure what there is to say exactly.