Create-A-City [Light:Human]

[Moraline]

RECRUITING

For anyone wanting to create a character and play in this world, here is the character sheet:

Code Select Expand

<right or left justified, image of character, please try to re-size it so it's no larger then 400px tall>
[b]Creator's Name[/b]:
[b]Playable[/b]:  Y/N   <This tells other players if the character is free to be used by them for their own plots>

[b]Character's Name[/b]: 
[b]Age[/b]:
[b]Occupation[/b]: 
[b]Where do they live[/b]:   <in the city center, slums, rich neighborhood, rural part of the island, etc...>
[b]Physical Description[/b]: 
<Whatever major physical attributes or permanent markings that are not visible in the image provided.>

[b]Hooks[/b]: 
<Short list of very specific personality quirks or important notes.
Ex: licks lips a lot, will run at first sign of trouble, is the step-sibling of the Mayor's wife, etc...>

[b]Items[/b]: 
<List of items that they commonly carry on them>

[b]Tales[/b]: 
<Any backstory that you wish to relate or important plots that have been played out by this character. Please contact the character's creator to have tales added when necessary.>


Submit them here and ask questions here for approval.

Eventually, if accepted, you will be posting them here:  C-A-C Denizens & Business Directory

*Update*

I created a few threads for you all to look over. Make any comments you might have about them here so we can finish getting them organized. Feel free to post to them if you are ready or would like to do so.

Links:
[C-A-C] Create-A-City World Building
[C-A-C] Classifieds/L4RP OOC
[C-A-C] Denizens & Business Directory
[C-A-C] Henry Lu Memorial Hospital (RP)

Here's the code for my little profile banner icon for the game if anyone would like to use it:

Code Select Expand

[url=https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=193118.0][img]https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/af/Create-a-city-icon_sm.png[/img][/url]


Note! We are still recruiting as this game can encompass many small one shot RP scenes as well.  So there is lots of room for players. It's a game and setting all built by the players in it.

Create-A-City
[Light: Human - Free form]

The city will be created by the players, named by the players, all of the people in it and everything about it will be created by you.

Genre:  Modern Fiction mixture (nothing supernatural or exotic, etc...)

What is this?

• It's more of a setting building / free-form RP. 
• We'll be spending most of our time creating characters, buildings, businesses, city events, ...(basic stuff that goes on in a city.) It'll be up to the player how much time they spend doing which thing in Create-A-City.   
• Then as we build stuff, people can play out scenes between the characters and stuff that they create. (Example: If player 1 creates a business run by John Doe, and player 2 creates a character that lives in the city named Alex Smith. Then player 1 & 2 can play out a scene together involving those two characters and/or the business.) 
  After/during they can play out a scene with them and/or continue building more characters and more of the city.   

How to play:

• I'll begin by asking a few questions to lay out the ground work of the city itself. *see below* 
• When ready,  I'll ask for people to create a couple initial city dwellers (characters, minor or fleshed out.)   
• Then we'll start to take suggestions from players on what topics to cover. (I have ideas but I'll want to see what you are all thinking.)   
• Once ready we'll begin playing out scenes. This will let us swap from character to character or keep playing the same character if we wish (post tagging of some type will be used to keep track of interactions - more discussion on that later.)   
• *NOTE*  Characters that get created will be tagged by their creators as to what sort of play they are looking for and if they are only to be used by the creator or if they are open to be used by anyone.
  Example:  Alex Smith (smutty sexual character - only used by creator),  John Doe (open for anyone to use as they wish), etc...
  We'll talk more about it and explore options as we go along.   

The city will be created by the players, named by the players, all of the people in it and everything about it will be created by you.


Rules:

• Be active (If you can't be active it's okay, just let us know so that no one gets stuck waiting for you.)   
• Be polite and positive (We want this to be fun.)   
• Keep everything realistic for the world of 2014 but we can stretch the details a bit in the name of fun.   
• Ask questions.   

The beginning...

Phase 1 complete:  All initial questions about the city itself have been answered.

State your interest in the game and then Please answer one question only. First come first serve. Answer questions in any order that you like.
If all questions have been answered then feel free to state your interest in the game and ask a question.
Don't be too wordy to get started but give us a bit of information.
See answers to questions in next post. I'll cross them off the list as they get answered.

• Where in the world is our city? (can be placed anywhere, it's totally fictional. Include details - coastal, mountain, ocean, rivers, etc...) 
• What is the name of our city? (unique name)  
• How large is the population?   
• Primary economy that the city was founded on?   
• Crime level?   
• Educational Access?   
• Health & Medicine Access?   
• Transportation (city transit y/n - details)?   
• Give me one major cultural event (with details) that takes place here?  
• Name one major celebrity born here (Unique creation by you. Who are they and what are they famous for?)
• What role did the small island nation of Zan'an play during WWII?   
• Law Enforcement/Military? (are they the same, is it a local militia, high tech, low tech, ...brief description pls) 
• Tourism (is there a lot of it, why do people come to the city?)
• Government (democracy, communist, monarchy, hybrid?)
• What year did the Island gain independence and entry into the United Nations? (see #11 for reference)
• Demographics (brief description/breakdown of populations nationalities, religions, and languages)

*I'll collect all the information in a post below this one to get started.
New questions can be answered by anyone.
* Please don't answer more then one question a day so we can leave it open for other people to participate.

[Moraline]

*RESERVED for Info*  

Phase 1 Completed: Creating the basic city and nation of Zan'an

• Where in the world is our city? (can be placed anywhere, it's totally fictional. Include details - coastal, mountain, ocean, rivers, etc...)
  A)  Courtesy of Finn MacKenna.
  The city is on a small mountainous island off the east coast of China, nestled between mainland China, Taiwan, Okinawa, Japan and the Korean Peninsula. There are beaches with great surfing, with the rest of the island being mountains and forest. There are a lot of places to hide away in the wilds. There small streams and ponds in the forests and mountains.
  The city has self-governance like Hong Kong used to and is not affiliated with any other local country. It is a country of it's own.
  • See map of location below, courtesy of Chrystal   
• What is the name of our city? (unique name)
  A)  Courtesy of Ember Star.
  Zan'an
  Zan'an was originally named Dōng'an after a feudal lord who's fishing fleets first discovered it's bountiful reefed harbor back around 220 BC during the Qin Dynasty. Dōng'an also means, "Eastern Peace" which for most of the small communities history is where the name was believed to originate from. It was an accurate description of this formerly sleepy little fishing community until WWII. During it's liberation in 1946 the allied forces renamed it to Zan'an and the new name has stuck. (*See notes on Zan'an's involvement in WWII.)  
• How large is the population?
  A) Courtesy of Tenshinhan
  Population for city 4,756,150   
• Primary economy that the city was founded on?
  A)  Courtesy of ZephySempai
  Being primarily a coastal island, the city's economy is stimulated by its rich marine market. The city exports its abundant catch all over the world and has become a central hub for the fish market.   
• Crime level?
  A) Courtesy of Xerial
  Though Zan'an has existed as an autonomous entity for the better part of a century, organized crime has had a hard time getting a foothold in the city. Competition between the Yakuza, Triads, Korean Seoulpa rings and various drug cartels has produced several high profile syndicate wars, but no clear winner has emerged. As such, no one organization has committed enough resources to the city to trouble the average resident.
  
  More troubling to everyday life, however, are domestically grown street gangs which vie for control of vice in the city. These small street gangs form an ever shifting grit, with their only common factor being a dislike of the sizable ex-patriot population.
  
  Zan'an's waters, being backed by a less significant naval presence than their neighbors, are host to a slew of smuggling and pirate operations. While these nefarious mariners tend to avoid the city-proper, there are substantial rumors of camps on the other side of the island.   
• Educational Access?  
  A) Courtesy of JackWhite
  The government of the small island believes that education is the key to a better future. A well-educated population would be an important factor for businesses to invest in the country. Although the sea and manual labor are important for the economy nowadays, they do want to encourage the young student to remain in school. That’s why the island spend a reasonable amount of their budget on education and keeping it affordable for the middle class. Most of the schools would be highly subsidized.   
• Health & Medicine Access?
  A) Courtesy of Chrystal
  There are at present only private medical facilities available, with charitable donations supporting free medical care to the poorest and those outside the city. There is a single big hospital in the city, and a number of free clinics supported by the International Red Cross, Médecin Sans Frontière, and other charities, as well as some being supported and sponsored by local businesses.
  
  A motion has been placed before parliament to nationalize these free clinics, paying for them using a variation of the Australian health care system. A 1.5% levy on people on middle income and over and 2.5% on people with high incomes with no private insurance.   
• Transportation
  A) Courtesy of Winterborn
  Zan'an has a highly progressive mass-transit system, both within the city and in the surrounding environs. Modern rail and bus lines connect rural communities to the city proper, while trams and buses carry citizens and tourists alike to and fro amid the urban bustle. Private vehicles are largely unnecessary for a daily commute, but neither are they unknown or stigmatized by the general population. Most small vehicles are owned by businesses or the wealthy, so that a majority of the vehicles sharing the roads with mass-transit are small trucks and luxury cars. To fill in the gaps, there is a prosperous trade in taxi services, though these sometimes more resemble private guided tours of the island.  
• Cultural events (with details) that takes place here?
  A) Courtesy of Tenshinhan
  March 4: National Day, an anniversary of the day in 1946 when the island was liberated from Japan as well as the day in 1990 when they gained their current independence in 1990. A day where people celebrate with parties,fireworks.
  
  July 24: Xi Qin Day: an anniversary of the discovery of the island as well as the first settlement,as well as the first dynasty which ruled the island for a few hundred years. This day people celebrate with large parties where they cook traditional foods of the island.
  
  September 13, Junzi a spray where people are encouraged to do acts of public kindness stared off as a Confucianism Holiday
  
  December 3: Feast Date of St. Xavier,large day for catholic population of island as St.Xavier is the patron saint of the island, a day of celebration (actually a real holiday but figured it would fit as a bigger thing here)  
• Name one major celebrity born here (Unique creation by you. Who are they and what are they famous for?)
  A) Courtesy of Chrystal
  
  Lia Tun, Professional Tennis Player

  
  

  

  Name: Lia Tun
  
  Age: 19
  
  Occupation: Professional Tennis player
  
  Acheivements: Last year, Australian open, unseeded wild card, Quarter finals, knocking out Venus Williams. French Open, seeded 8th, quarer finals. Stella Artois, seeded 9th, semi finals. Wimbledon, seeded 8th, final, second place. US Open, seeded 8th, final, second place.
  
  This year so far, Australian open, seeded 4th, win. French open, seeded 2nd, win.
  
  Lia is a fast rising star in the world of international tennis. Something of a prodigy, she was inspired by watching Wimbledon on the BBC World Service as a tweenager and decided she would do that. She has worked hard and pushed herself, ever since. Her dream is a grand slam and an Olympic gold medal.
  
  Her parents, who are quite wealthy, have supported her dream, and are so proud of her that they can even forgive her taking after many other female tennis players...
  
• What role did the small island nation of Zan'an play during WWII?
  A) Courtesy of Chrystal
  The country was invaded by Japan in 1937, but was mostly a rural economy at the time, being a major fishing port but with no heavy industry.
  
  The Japanese modernized the harbour and built an airstrip. The harbour was used mostly for small fast patrol craft carrying out ASW operations against American, British and Australian submarines operating in the area. The island was the scene of a failed commando raid against the harbour, during which only one patrol boat was damaged and a team of Australian commandos, led by a British Major were all killed or captured.
  
  A small POW Camp was established on the island but later abandoned.
  
  Liberated in 1946, almost a year after the Japanese surrender, the Island was placed under joint Australian/US protection until it could be given full independence.   
• Law Enforcement/Military? (are they the same, is it a local militia, high tech, low tech, ...brief description pls)
  A) Courtesy of Angel Fire
  In the city proper, there is a police force of around 5000 Police officers.  Their methods and technology rank among the one of the best and is modeled by a combination of American and Australian ways of naming.  The list of police officer ranks are as follows:
  
  Officer, Inspector, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Commissioner
  
  The military is a small army and coast guard that has technology that is a little outdated (think 2006 technology) but brave people that fight with a lot of heart and patriotism for their small island nation.  The army has around 2500 soldiers and 500 Coast Guard members.  They can barely keep the pirates and smugglers at bay but they try with all of their might.
  
  Their rankings are modeled from the US ranks of Military.
  
  The Air Force is handled by the US Navy as there is an American Naval Air station stationed on the south end of the island. 
• Tourism(is there a lot of it, why do people come to the city?)
  A) Courtesy of Tenshinhan
  Tourism is abundant and a thriving business in the small nation of Zan'an.
  
  People come for a number of reasons. First they Come for the beachfront resorts which are focused on a single strip along the beech.  Secondly, they come cot the physical recreation, surfing the waves, sport fishing, and mountain climbing on the largest of the islands mountains. People come to shop, the cities free trade status enabling goods to be cheaper there than they are in nearby countries.
  
  The cultural center of the city is the old palace of the monarchs which was built 1000 years before and it's numerous tropical gardens, as well as the historical old town, which dates back before the Japanese invasion.  Xi'Qin Square which is a large square at the center of the area with a statue of the almost mythical founder of the city.
  
  Cultural areas like the performing arts center, the local tropical aquarium, the tropical areas for bird watching as well, and the large variety of food found in the different sections of the town. Also attract thousands of tourists every year.  
• Government (democracy, communist, monarchy, hybrid?)
  A) Courtesy of Chrystal
  Constitutional Monarchy.
  
  The monarch to have the power of veto over any laws passed by the parliament, the parliament to be elected by the common people once every five years, with the monarch having a power of veto over the appointment of a prime minister. The Monarch's veto can, in turn, be overturned by referendum. In practice it is envisaged that the monarch's role will be largely ceremonial.
  
  The first elections were held in 1992, after the interim government were satisfied that the correct mechanism was in place to ensure the elections were , and would be seen to be, "Free and fair".
  
  There was some violence and some intimidation in outlying villages, but by and large the result was constitutional, and the parliament was formed.
  
  However, the post of Regent was held by a cousin of the last known heir to the throne.
  
  The Island was, until the Japanese invaded, an absolute monarchy, ruled by an hereditary dynasty. The last king, Zan'ang XIV, and his wife Cho Lu, were executed by the Japanese for refusing to bow to the Emperor of Japan. Their son Mi'Ting was smuggled out of the country and grew up in Australia, kept in ignorance of who he was in order to protect him, should Japan invade Australia.
  
  Mi'Ting's cousin Jo'Nan survived the war on a paddy farm, his parents collaborating with the Japanese in order to survive. When the search began for the new Monarch, he was quickly discovered and offered the crown, but being in his seventies with no offspring, he declined and said he would act as regent until the true heir could be found.
• What year did the Island gain independence and entry into the United Nations? (see #11 for reference)
  A) Courtesy of Angel Fire
  Zan'an gained Independence from the US/Aussie occupation in 1990 after a peaceful argument about what type of government the leaders decided to go with (that government question can be answered by someone else).
  
  They have not yet gained admission to the UN on the basis of being blocked by several members of the Security Council. A dispute of their territorial claims by China, and positioning by the USA for a strategic alliance with Zan'an post-Independence has the UN Assembly locked down from formally accepting them as a member. Their independence in 1990 from a joint US/Australian occupation is recognized by the Assembly, however. It is a matter of acceptance to the UN itself that is in flux. 
• Demographics (brief description/breakdown of populations nationalities, religions, and languages)
  A) Courtesy of Tenshinhan
  Nationalities:
  A) Courtesy of Tenshinhan
  Nationality:
  30 % mixed race as intermarriage has been common over the years between all of the major groups
  15 % Chinese, this number has grown a lot since 1990 and the immigration of fishermen looking for jobs. 
  15 % Korean mostly those who came to the island over the years for fishing.
  12 % Taiwanese arrived after the Chinese Civil War and the displacement by some by the ROC as well as looking for work.
  10 % American/Aussie businessmen or are connected to the US military outpost on the island. 
  5 % Japanese, part of the group who never went home and used the islands favorable position to gain in trade. 
  5 % Southern Asia Philippines Vietnamese etc who come to the island for work.
  5 % Native
  3 % Indian a group who came like those from Philippines who came in search of work 
  
  Religions:
  50 % traditional
  20 % non-believers or no certain believe
  20 % Christian of various faiths
  10 % other including Muslim.
  
  Languages:  A nation of four official languages Japanese, English, Mandarin Chinese, and Korean.
  * A mixed English/Chinese being the most common language   

The good thing about this game is that you can RP as much or as little as you like and make your scenes as long or as short as you like. Since the overall plot doesn't really exist until each player begins to help us create the city, the characters lives, etc... It's total flexibility. You can write a bedroom scene, a shopping scene, or give your character a full story arc - Ex: Private Investigator that gets tangled up in an affair with their client and discovers a shady real estate venture involving multiple murders!

It's all up to you and your partners.

Map, courtesy of Chrystal

Approx Size of Zan'an Island: 
50km x 25km (30 miles x 15 miles)
1250 square km.

*Updated*


Now our next step is to flesh out a couple of questions and create a few NPC's.
-  We can start by laying out what we've created for plot points so far (ex: the monarchy's missing heir).  What have we got so far for plot points?
-  Who do we need to create as NPC's for those plots? (no need to go too indepth, we don't know if these plots will be even played out or not. We just want to add them for flavor.)

Previously asked questions that might aid in our journey:

Name the three main political parties in the parliament (and only ONE of them can be either "Republican" or "Democrat" or have either or boh of those words in it's name). Which party is currently in power and who is Prime Minister?

The heir to the throne has just been located in an Australian high school. Who is it?

What is the name of the American Naval Air Station on the island? (How big is the Naval Air Station?)

[Florence]

I'm definitely interested! ... now to actually read the info in detail xD

1) The city is coastal, nestled on a small mountainous island just off the mainland. There are beaches with great surfing, with the rest of the island being mountains and forest. There are a lot of places to hide away in the wilds. There small streams and ponds in the forests and mountains.

I'm not sure if you want a specific real-earth geographical location for the city; but in my mind I was thinking of sort of thinking somewhere in East Asia, but it could be anywhere.

[Moraline]

I'm definitely interested! ... now to actually read the info in detail xD

1) The city is coastal, nestled on a small mountainous island just off the mainland. There are beaches with great surfing, with the rest of the island being mountains and forest. There are a lot of places to hide away in the wilds. There small streams and ponds in the forests and mountains.

I'm not sure if you want a specific real-earth geographical location for the city; but in my mind I was thinking of sort of thinking somewhere in East Asia, but it could be anywhere.

Give me a geographic location and I'll post it up.

... Or do we want to make it ambiguous?

[Florence]

Revised:

1) The city is on a small mountainous island off the east coast of China, nestled between mainland China, Taiwan, Okinawa, Japan and the Korean Peninsula. There are beaches with great surfing, with the rest of the island being mountains and forest. There are a lot of places to hide away in the wilds. There small streams and ponds in the forests and mountains.



If that makes it too difficult for anyone else, I can move it D: I was thinking it could be a city with a degree of self-governance like Hong Kong, so there's some freedom to creating it, whereas a city actually run by the Chinese government would be a bit... restrictive.

Edit: If we want to keep it ambiguous, then... feel free to use the previous one, or just remove the specifics. I love Asian culture and I'd love working with a city sort of like Hong Kong, but I understand some people might find it easier working with a city in a culture they're more familiar with; so I'm good with whatever works for others.

[ZephySempai]

Oooh, this looks like fun. A really unique sort of game. I think I'll give it a try.

I'd love to answer question 4 if there's no specific order to the questions.

4) Being primarily a coastal island, the city's economy is stimulated by its rich marine market. The city exports its abundant catch all over the world and has become a central hub for the fish market.

[Ember Star]

2. How about Zan'an?

[Moraline]

2. How about Zan'an?

Great name. Any little blurb of history to go with it?



Update: Questions, 1, 2, and 4 have been answered/crossed off the list.

Anyone handy with creating Wiki articles?

[Ember Star]

I know how to work the wiki! Mostly anyway. I can't do anything too fancy. But both Star Trek and Fandomverse uses the wiki for information, and I have a personal wiki page.

As for a history blurb. Give me awhile to think on something.

[Moraline]

I know how to work the wiki! Mostly anyway. I can't do anything too fancy. But both Star Trek and Fandomverse uses the wiki for information, and I have a personal wiki page.

As for a history blurb. Give me awhile to think on something.

No problem. I'm thinking that we could have a little wiki page for the city once we get more info on it. Make it look just like an actual city page from Wikipedia.

Since we are a sort of Hong Kong like city, should we use pictures of Hong Kong for it?

[Florence]

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uwbWlPKZ2wE/T3RPYMQQaCI/AAAAAAAAIj0/1jBObZo7Gyo/s1600/hong-kong-skyline-1.jpg

I actually had this image of the Hong Kong skyline in mind when I wrote up that location :o

[Ember Star]

No problem. I'm thinking that we could have a little wiki page for the city once we get more info on it. Make it look just like an actual city page from Wikipedia.

Since we are a sort of Hong Kong like city, should we use pictures of Hong Kong for it?

If you can do the typing work and put things in the order you want, I can code it to look something like that.

[ZephySempai]

Awesome picture, Finn.

[Xerial]

As a world-builder, I always love these thought exercises.

A contribution, which touches on a few other parts along with a main question:

5. Crime level? 

Though Zan'an has existed as an autonomous entity for the better part of a century, organized crime has had a hard time getting a foothold in the city. Competition between the Yakuza, Triads, Korean Seoulpa rings and various drug cartels has produced several high profile syndicate wars, but no clear winner has emerged. As such, no one organization has committed enough resources to the city to trouble the average resident.

More troubling to everyday life, however, are domestically grown street gangs which vie for control of vice in the city. These small street gangs form an ever shifting grit, with their only common factor being a dislike of the sizable ex-patriot population.

Zan'an's waters, being backed by a less significant naval presence than their neighbors, are host to a slew of smuggling and pirate operations. While these nefarious mariners tend to avoid the city-proper, there are substantial rumors of camps on the other side of the island.

[ZephySempai]

^---- Ooooh.... me likey :)

[Florence]

That's great! Really opens up a lot of potential for rp. Crime wars between various Asian crime syndicates trying to vie for control of the city; turf wars between the street gangs, and conflict between some of the older families of the city, and the various immigrants coming to the city from neighboring countries, even some nautical conflicts involving smugglers and pirates. There could even be a little racial tension... as anyone who knows much of Asian history can tell you, Japan has something of a... tense relation with a number of its neighbors.

I apologize if we're not supposed to be speculating too much outside the scope of our question, but I have to wonder what involvement this island city may have had during World War 2, actually, given its strategic location in between China, Korea and Japan. There are just so many interesting questions we could ask about this city of ours. :>

But as for the crime level, I like the potential, as I said, it lets us have a lot of various sorts of criminal activity... while not turning the city into Asian Gotham.

[Winterborn]

Put me down as interested!

Transportation: Zan'an has a highly progressive mass-transit system, both within the city and in the surrounding environs. Modern rail and bus lines connect rural communities to the city proper, while trams and buses carry citizens and tourists alike to and fro amid the urban bustle. Private vehicles are largely unnecessary for a daily commute, but neither are they unknown or stigmatized by the general population. Most small vehicles are owned by businesses or the wealthy, so that a majority of the vehicles sharing the roads with mass-transit are small trucks and luxury cars. To fill in the gaps, there is a prosperous trade in taxi services, though these sometimes more resemble private guided tours of the island.

[Moraline]

Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide

... 5. Crime level?

Though Zan'an has existed as an autonomous entity for the better part of a century, organized crime has had a hard time getting a foothold in the city. Competition between the Yakuza, Triads, Korean Seoulpa rings and various drug cartels has produced several high profile syndicate wars, but no clear winner has emerged. As such, no one organization has committed enough resources to the city to trouble the average resident.

More troubling to everyday life, however, are domestically grown street gangs which vie for control of vice in the city. These small street gangs form an ever shifting grit, with their only common factor being a dislike of the sizable ex-patriot population.

Zan'an's waters, being backed by a less significant naval presence than their neighbors, are host to a slew of smuggling and pirate operations. While these nefarious mariners tend to avoid the city-proper, there are substantial rumors of camps on the other side of the island.

Thanks for the contribution. Leaves it nice and open for those wishing to explore the seedy underbelly of Zan'an.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uwbWlPKZ2wE/T3RPYMQQaCI/AAAAAAAAIj0/1jBObZo7Gyo/s1600/hong-kong-skyline-1.jpg

I actually had this image of the Hong Kong skyline in mind when I wrote up that location :o

I like it. Once we get this all laid out and I type things up, I'll be sure to give it to Ember Star so she can add it to our wiki article.

...
I apologize if we're not supposed to be speculating too much outside the scope of our question, but I have to wonder what involvement this island city may have had during World War 2, actually, given its strategic location in between China, Korea and Japan. There are just so many interesting questions we could ask about this city of ours. :>

But as for the crime level, I like the potential, as I said, it lets us have a lot of various sorts of criminal activity... while not turning the city into Asian Gotham.

That's perfect... Rule #4 says "Ask Questions."  Speculation is exactly what we like.



This led me to add a couple new questions open for answering.

• NEW! What role did the small island nation of Zan'an play during WWII?   
• NEW! Law Enforcement/Military? (are they the same, is it a local militia, high tech, low tech, ...brief description pls) 
• NEW! Tourism (is there a lot of it, why do people come to the city?)
• NEW! Government (democracy, communist, monarchy, hybrid?)

Welcome, Winterborn. I'm updating the 2nd post right now with all this wonderful info about our city.

[Winterborn]

Nooo! You ask about the military right after I answer a question?!

My heart weeps.

[Moraline]

New questions can be answered by anyone.
* Please don't answer more then one question a day so we can leave it open for other people to participate.

• NEW! What role did the small island nation of Zan'an play during WWII? (in brief)   
• NEW! Law Enforcement/Military? (are they the same, is it a local militia, high tech, low tech, ...brief description pls) 
• NEW! Tourism (is there a lot of it, why do people come to the city?)
• NEW! Government (democracy, communist, monarchy, hybrid?)

[Oldknight]

Just a note during WW2 there is no Korea Japan owned it from like 190something to 1945 and the coast of China was controlled pretty much by Japan during the war too, so I don't see how the location matters all that much except maybe it has been taken over by Japan as a supply base or is forced to support Japan to remain an illusion of independence like Manchuria in WW2

[Chrystal]

In keeping with the above,

11) What role did the small island nation of Zan'an play during WWII?

The country was invaded by Japan in 1937, but was mostly a rural economy at the time, being a major fishing port but with no heavy industry.

The Japanese modernised the harbour and built an airstrip. The harbour was used mostly for small fast patrol craft carrying out ASW operations against American, British and Australian submarines operating in the area. The island was the scene of a failed commando raid against the harbour, during which only one patrol boat was damaged and a team of Australian commandos, led by a British Major were all killed or captured.

A small POW Camp was established on the island but later abandoned.

Liberated in 1946, almost a year after the Japanese surrender, the Island was placed under joint Australian/US protection until it could be given full independence.

How does that work?

I have a question in turn: What year did the Island gain independence and entry into the United Nations?

[Moraline]

Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide

In keeping with the above,

11) What role did the small island nation of Zan'an play during WWII?

The country was invaded by Japan in 1937, but was mostly a rural economy at the time, being a major fishing port but with no heavy industry.

The Japanese modernised the harbour and built an airstrip. The harbour was used mostly for small fast patrol craft carrying out ASW operations against American, British and Australian submarines operating in the area. The island was the scene of a failed commando raid against the harbour, during which only one patrol boat was damaged and a team of Australian commandos, led by a British Major were all killed or captured.

A small POW Camp was established on the island but later abandoned.

Liberated in 1946, almost a year after the Japanese surrender, the Island was placed under joint Australian/US protection until it could be given full independence.

How does that work?

I have a question in turn: What year did the Island gain independence and entry into the United Nations?

Updated!

.. and that's a very good question. I'll add it to the list.

[Florence]

I got a question!

Two in fact.

1) What are the predominant and official languages of Zan'an?

I would assume the official and most common language is either Mandarin or Cantonese Chinese, but I wonder what other languages might be commonly spoken. How common is Japanese, Korean, English, etc.

2) What are the major religions of Zan'an?

Buddhism, Daoism and Confucianism are all common in the area. Perhaps Japanese Shinto beliefs or Korean folklore have made their way to the island? How much have foreign religions such Christianity, Judaism and Islam had an impact on the city?

Its worth pointing out that for the most part, Asian religious beliefs aren't generally viewed as mutually exclusive. Someone can believe in both Buddhism and Shintoism for example. In fact, I think the majority of Japan's religion falls under a hybrid of those two.

[Ember Star]

Okay, city name blurb.

Nan'an is an actual city in China which means "southern peace" shifting that slightly and leaving no regard for the actual language, I thought that perhaps Zan'an could mean "eastern peace"? Or perhaps Zan'an was the name of the original founder of the city/town when it was first settled?

[Oldknight]

Not sure it would be primary Chinese given the history that had been put up. I could see Japanese influence as well as English and Korean. I think a good question here is would it be a previous colony and if that is the case the European language might be larger.

An idea perhaps for post WW2- the island would gain independence say 48, it would then be used as a us logistics base during the Korean War . The us and in putting more investments into the island and paying the island a lease rate to operate the airfield and harbor to support things like the mcarthur's landing.

As for religion I could see it like South Korea which I pretty I think.

[Moraline]

I got a question!

Two in fact.

1) What are the predominant and official languages of Zan'an?

I would assume the official and most common language is either Mandarin or Cantonese Chinese, but I wonder what other languages might be commonly spoken. How common is Japanese, Korean, English, etc.

2) What are the major religions of Zan'an?

Buddhism, Daoism and Confucianism are all common in the area. Perhaps Japanese Shinto beliefs or Korean folklore have made their way to the island? How much have foreign religions such Christianity, Judaism and Islam had an impact on the city?

Its worth pointing out that for the most part, Asian religious beliefs aren't generally viewed as mutually exclusive. Someone can believe in both Buddhism and Shintoism for example. In fact, I think the majority of Japan's religion falls under a hybrid of those two.

I think this would fall into one catch all, "Demographics." Just because it's off the coast of China though doesn't mean that it has to be predominantly Chinese speaking or people. It might actually be interesting if it had a totally different demographic. I'll leave that up to whoever answers the question of Demographics though.

Question of "Demographics" added to the list!

Not sure it would be primary Chinese given the history that had been put up. I could see Japanese influence as well as English and Korean. I think a good question here is would it be a previous colony and if that is the case the European language might be larger.

An idea perhaps for post WW2- the island would gain independence say 48, it would then be used as a us logistics base during the Korean War . The us and in putting more investments into the island and paying the island a lease rate to operate the airfield and harbor to support things like the mcarthur's landing.

As for religion I could see it like South Korea which I pretty I think.

See, that's my thinking as well.   But I'll leave it up to whoever fills out the Demographics question that I'm adding. I'm good with whatever way it goes as long as there's a brief description to go with it.

Okay, city name blurb.

Nan'an is an actual city in China which means "southern peace" shifting that slightly and leaving no regard for the actual language, I thought that perhaps Zan'an could mean "eastern peace"? Or perhaps Zan'an was the name of the original founder of the city/town when it was first settled?

I like it. Here's my twist on it... Hopefully you'll like it.

"Zan'an was named after a feudal lord who's fishing fleets first discovered it's bountiful reefed harbor back around 220 BC during the Qin Dynasty. Zan'an also means, "Eastern Peace" which for most of the small communities history is the name was believed to originated from. It was an accurate description of this formerly sleepy little fishing community until WWII. (*see notes on Zan'an's involvement in WWII.)"

[Ember Star]

I like it. Here's my twist on it... Hopefully you'll like it.

"Zan'an was named after a feudal lord who's fishing fleets first discovered it's bountiful reefed harbor back around 220 BC during the Qin Dynasty. Zan'an also means, "Eastern Peace" which for most of the small communities history is the name was believed to originated from. It was an accurate description of this formerly sleepy little fishing community until WWII. (*see notes on Zan'an's involvement in WWII.)"

Works for me! :)

[Chrystal]

Are we talking about a fictional language, because Eastern in Chinese is Dōng, so Eastern Peace would be Dōng'an using the same word construction and given that South is Nán...

Just to be clear, I have no objection to using a fictional translation, I just want to know if that is the case...

[Moraline]

Are we talking about a fictional language, because Eastern in Chinese is Dōng, so Eastern Peace would be Dōng'an using the same word construction and given that South is Nán...

Just to be clear, I have no objection to using a fictional translation, I just want to know if that is the case...

I have a compromise... "Dōng'an " is the original name but it was changed by the Americans and Australians during WWII to Zan'an and the name has stuck?

Do we think that could work? I like a little bit of culture smushing.

[Chrystal]

I have no problem with Zan'an meaning Eastern Peace in the Chinese language of this world, just so long as we are clear that we are talking about a different Chinese language to the real one?

That's all!

[Moraline]

I have no problem with Zan'an meaning Eastern Peace in the Chinese language of this world, just so long as we are clear that we are talking about a different Chinese language to the real one?

That's all!

Here's what I changed it too.

Zan'an
Zan'an was originally named Dōng'an after a feudal lord who's fishing fleets first discovered it's bountiful reefed harbor back around 220 BC during the Qin Dynasty. Dōng'an also means, "Eastern Peace" which for most of the small communities history is where the name was believed to originate from. It was an accurate description of this formerly sleepy little fishing community until WWII. During it's liberation in 1946 the allied forces renamed it to Zan'an and the new name has stuck. (*See notes on Zan'an's involvement in WWII.)

I have no problem using some fictional Chinese as well but there might actually be some Chinese people here on the forums that read it and I can totally see it being a source of annoyance to them. LOL

*edit* I think it adds color and history to the location.

[Oldknight]

Demographics thought: 15 percent Chinese, this number has grown a lot since 1990 and the immigration of fishermen looking for jobs 5 percent Japanese, part of the group who never went home and used the islands favorable position to gain in trade. 2-5 percent American/Aussie: businessmen or are connected to the us outpost on the island.15 percent Korean mostly those who came to the island over the years for fishing. 5 percent Southern Asia Philippines Vietnamese etc who come to the island for work Remainder would be native islanders who were always there and have grown and endured over the years. Religions: 50 percent traditional 20 percent non-believers or no certain believe 20 Christian of various faiths 10 other including Muslim. Language a nation of four official languages Japanese, English, M. Chinese and Korean. A mixed English/Chinese being the most common language

[Chrystal]

*giggles* So we are talking about "Firefly Island", where they speak in in English but swear in Chinese?

[Moraline]

Demographics thought: 15 percent Chinese, this number has grown a lot since 1990 and the immigration of fishermen looking for jobs 5 percent Japanese, part of the group who never went home and used the islands favorable position to gain in trade. 2-5 percent American/Aussie: businessmen or are connected to the us outpost on the island.15 percent Korean mostly those who came to the island over the years for fishing. 5 percent Southern Asia Philippines Vietnamese etc who come to the island for work Remainder would be native islanders who were always there and have grown and endured over the years. Religions: 50 percent traditional 20 percent non-believers or no certain believe 20 Christian of various faiths 10 other including Muslim. Language a nation of four official languages Japanese, English, M. Chinese and Korean. A mixed English/Chinese being the most common language

I edited this to make it a bit easier to break down...

Demographics
A) Courtesy of Tenshinhan
Nationality:
15 percent Chinese, this number has grown a lot since 1990 and the immigration of fishermen looking for jobs. 
15 percent Korean mostly those who came to the island over the years for fishing. 
5 percent Japanese, part of the group who never went home and used the islands favorable position to gain in trade. 
5 percent Southern Asia Philippines Vietnamese etc who come to the island for work.
2-5 percent American/Aussie businessmen or are connected to the US military outpost on the island.
Remainder would be native islanders who were always there and have grown and endured over the years. 

Religions: 50 percent traditional 20 percent non-believers or no certain believe 20 Christian of various faiths 10 other including Muslim.

Languages:  A nation of four official languages Japanese, English, Mandarin Chinese, and Korean. * A mixed English/Chinese being the most common language



We are a little light on the population statistics though for nationalities. Suggestions?

*giggles* So we are talking about "Firefly Island", where they speak in in English but swear in Chinese?

I can totally dig that. Except I think if you look at Hong Kong it's like the reverse. It's speak Chinese and curse or do business in English. HAHA

(( I don't actually know, I'm just trying to be funny.   ;D ))

[Oldknight]

My idea came more from singlish but that works too. I think the population has to be 2-5 million at least

[Moraline]

My idea came more from singlish but that works too. I think the population has to be 2-5 million at least

What about the percentages of nationalities.. Right now we only have 45% accounted for, unless we are saying that 55% are the original inhabitants but given the islands history it would make more sense if they were only a tiny fraction of the overall population. I would think the percentage of American/British/Australian would be significantly higher given the history.

Thoughts?

[Oldknight]

Hmm okay oh about a large mixed population say 45-50 percent with 5-10 native

[Chrystal]

I have more questions, that are all related:

What percentage of the island does the city cover? What is the overall size of the island - these two give us the size of the city, and hence the population density. The population density is directly related to the standard of living. Big houses cost more and take up more space. One-room apartments are cheap and can be stacked as high as you like until the air gets too thin or the structure becomes unstable...

Also, what makes up the rest (if any) of the island? Farm land/paddy fields, rainforrest, mountains? Some of each, and in what percentage?

Given the level of criminal activity and piracy, I would think that there would be a decent amount of undeveloped land, for the pirates to hide in.

[JackWhite]

Education:

The government of the small island believes that education is the key to a better future. A well-educated population would be an important factor for businesses to invest in the country. Although the sea and manual labor are important for the economy nowadays, they do want to encourage the young student to remain in school. That’s why the island spend a reasonable amount of their budget on education and keeping it affordable for the middle class. Most of the schools would be highly subsidized.

[Chrystal]

I thought this might be useful...



I can, if required, make the island bigger or smaller. As it stands, it's about the same size as Honolulu Island, or Rhodes (the Greek Island in the Mediterranean).

[Ember Star]

Yes. Yes. Maps are a good thing.

[Oldknight]

Maybe the natives on the island are connected to those on the ryukyu islands somehow given how close they are?

[Angel Fire]

Wow.... I always loved to build a world and I would really like to be a part of this.  Lets see what I can come up with here.

Zan'an gained Independence from the US/Aussie occupation in 1990 after a peaceful argument of what type of government the leaders decided to go with (that government question can be answered by someone else).

The UN took a look at their status and granted UN admission in 2002, a few months after the 9/11 attacks.  The UN realized that in order to protect Zan'an from the re-organization of the US and Aussie troops to more of the Middle East, they reluctantly realized that Zan'an was a strategically important place to avoid possible North Korean attacks from afar.

Hope this is good with everyone! *Smiles in hope*

[Chrystal]

nestled between mainland China, Taiwan, Okinawa, Japan and the Korean Peninsula.

Basically, I put the island pretty much equidistant from those four locations.

Interestingly, I can't see there being great surf beaches on the Island in this location, as the East China Sea is only about 100m (300') deep and the Island chain to the East will break up the Pacific rollers...

However...

The fact that I put the city to the South East of the island was arbitrary, as with the size. The map I drew makes the island about 30 miles from end to end and about half that from side to side, but as I said that can be changed easily, as can the orientation of the island - I can make it straight, bi or gay.... Sorry, just kidding... Paintbrush is an amazing little tool in the Windows 7 version, so I can rotate the island, flip it over, stretch it, skew it, whatever anyone wants...

[Oldknight]

I think it would make more sense for the us to give it is independence after the Korean War but keep a base there like what we did with South Korea so the independence date would be more 1948-1950. Then more recently the problems would have more to do with China's aggressive growth and it's conflict with japan the us and those who want to remain independent. This is happening I real life with some of Japan's and the Philippines  islands in Asia today

[Angel Fire]

That was my very first thought there.  Since I could not answer the government question, I decided to let the country be like a commonwealth (like Puerto Rico is to the US) until the people could decide which way to go.  I will be very happy to switch it to the late 40's-early 50's timeframe once we decide on what type of government we have.

[Chrystal]

Most UK dependencies were give independents in the 1940s, 50s and 60s.

However, the Marshall Islands and South Solomon Islands - Pacific dependencies of the USA and UK respectively following WWII were not given independence until the 1970s.

[Oldknight]

Then you have places like Guam which the us still owns

[Angel Fire]

Yes... That was where I was getting at... and also American Samoa too.

[ZephySempai]

Where were you guys when I was struggling in History class?!

[Chrystal]

Not to mention the Hawaiian Islands and midway...

Tjhere are places in the pacific and Indian oceans that the UK still owns too, as well as a lot in the Atlantic - the Falklands being the most obvious, but there's Ascuncion Island, St Helena and a few others. Mostly just rocks that no-one else wants...

[Florence]

Basically, I put the island pretty much equidistant from those four locations.

Interestingly, I can't see there being great surf beaches on the Island in this location, as the East China Sea is only about 100m (300') deep and the Island chain to the East will break up the Pacific rollers...

However...

The fact that I put the city to the South East of the island was arbitrary, as with the size. The map I drew makes the island about 30 miles from end to end and about half that from side to side, but as I said that can be changed easily, as can the orientation of the island - I can make it straight, bi or gay.... Sorry, just kidding... Paintbrush is an amazing little tool in the Windows 7 version, so I can rotate the island, flip it over, stretch it, skew it, whatever anyone wants...

I confess, I know nothing of ocean depth and surfing physics xD;

In my head while writing up the location, I had it in mine that the island was just about large enough to fit a the city proper; a few mountains, a rather dense forest. In addition, there would perhaps be some farmland cleared out, around the city; keeping it as self-sufficient as possible and all. I imagine the traditional diet of the city largely consists of seafood and hunted game from the forest, but they'd at least likely try to have some rice paddies and/or vegetables to round out their diet.

Hey, I think I just answered a question that no one asked. xD What is the traditional Zan'an diet?

Anyway, I'm not so good at figuring out how much space that would require, but basically... city proper (however large that is), rural farmlands, forests and mountains. As for the shape, I had it in my head that it was somewhat round, perhaps with one of the larger mountains at the center of the island. Don't ask me about the geographical validity of a volcanic island at that location, it was simply the appearance that popped into my head.

Perhaps there's also a few smaller outlaying islands (ya know, the tiny sort that don't even appear on most maps), just a few places which pirates could hide away in little forest-covered islands.

Also, while reading the posts concerning the name I had a thought of my own, that the name of the city came from the same root as Nan'an, perhaps meaning Southern Peace as well, if the city is focused on the southern side of the island, not in any real Chinese, but rather a fictional regional dialect (which may or may not have faded out in favor of more common dialects, such as Mandarin, as mentioned in the demographics answer. "Chinese" is actually a collection of many related regional dialects. Just look at how different Mandarin and Cantonese can be.

[Moraline]

Education:

The government of the small island believes that education is the key to a better future. A well-educated population would be an important factor for businesses to invest in the country. Although the sea and manual labor are important for the economy nowadays, they do want to encourage the young student to remain in school. That’s why the island spend a reasonable amount of their budget on education and keeping it affordable for the middle class. Most of the schools would be highly subsidized.

Adding to the list and welcome aboard.

I thought this might be useful...



I can, if required, make the island bigger or smaller. As it stands, it's about the same size as Honolulu Island, or Rhodes (the Greek Island in the Mediterranean).

I love it and thank you very much.

I saw you mention it here somewhere, how big is the island? 30 square km?

Wow.... I always loved to build a world and I would really like to be a part of this.  Lets see what I can come up with here.

Zan'an gained Independence from the US/Aussie occupation in 1990 after a peaceful argument of what type of government the leaders decided to go with (that government question can be answered by someone else).

The UN took a look at their status and granted UN admission in 2002, a few months after the 9/11 attacks.  The UN realized that in order to protect Zan'an from the re-organization of the US and Aussie troops to more of the Middle East, they reluctantly realized that Zan'an was a strategically important place to avoid possible North Korean attacks from afar.

Hope this is good with everyone! *Smiles in hope*

Thank you for this and welcome to the group! Adding it right now.


There was a lot of back and forth talking here. Did we come to any agreed upon conclusions for any changes to this or the other items? 

*NOTE*
Please everyone remember to number your replies and try to respect the answers already given by other people.
It's alright if some things don't perfectly match up. We can smooth things over as we go.
However, if anyone has an idea and wants to discuss making minor changes that's welcome as well, just be gentle with your conversations. We want to keep this fun and light.

[Ember Star]

I was fooling around with my pic editor and I randomly designed a flag. If nobody likes it or we don't need/want one, I don't mind. Just thought I'd share

Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide

[Chrystal]

I love it and thank you very much.

I saw you mention it here somewhere, how big is the island? 30 square km?

You're welcome, Moraline.

I have created a blob on the map that, to scale, would be about 50km x 25km, 30 miles x 15 miles. So 1250 square Km. (30 square Km is only 173m² However, as I said, this can easily be changed.

If you like I can do a rough map of the Island as it was in 1946, and slowly expand the city as people decide what they want where?

I was fooling around with my pic editor and I randomly designed a flag. If nobody likes it or we don't need/want one, I don't mind. Just thought I'd share

Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide

May I suggest that we decide on a form of government before choosing a flag? That flag is intrinsically Communist!

[Moraline]

You're welcome, Moraline.

I have created a blob on the map that, to scale, would be about 50km x 25km, 30 miles x 15 miles. So 1250 square Km. (30 square Km is only 173m² However, as I said, this can easily be changed.

If you like I can do a rough map of the Island as it was in 1946, and slowly expand the city as people decide what they want where?

May I suggest that we decide on a form of government before choosing a flag? That flag is intrinsically Communist!

I updated the notes on the map (Included it in the info post).  I think the size is perfect. It's much smaller then Taiwan but still it's a good size for lots of elbow room.

I like the idea of the city being much like Hong Kong with it being tightly packed and along the slopes of mountains etc... Plus it lets us use Hong Kong images for it. Just makes it easier for us to envision with that as a frame of reference. Hopefully everyone is alright with that.

I was fooling around with my pic editor and I randomly designed a flag. If nobody likes it or we don't need/want one, I don't mind. Just thought I'd share

Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide

As for the Flag, I think it does look a wee bit on the communist side but I luv the enthusiasm!

[Moraline]

I'm also opening the floor to having the other questions answered by people that have already participated. Please just one answer at a time and try to only answer one a day. (That means one extra starting right now.)

[Ember Star]

LOL. like I said, I was just fooling around trying to do something different actually and randomly threw that together using the Chinese colors. Didn't put any thought beyond that

[Oldknight]

Well maybe you can reverse the colors and see how that looks

[Chrystal]

Hmmm

Morocco:


Might be worth making sure any flag we pick doesn't already exist first?

http://www.flags.net/mainindex.htm

[Ember Star]

I knew it looked familiar! LOL

[Chrystal]

Well maybe you can reverse the colors and see how that looks

A red star on a gold field, actually would look interesting, but how about a blue star on gold?

Or a gold star on pale blue?

Oh I have it! Dark ble at the bottom, light blue at the top with a gold star in the middle. Symbolic!

[Ember Star]

Only because it took me 30 seconds

Reversed Colors

I can do any of those other ideas too if one is popular

[Xerial]

Got beat to the punch on the UN one, but I was going to propose that they have not yet gained admission to the UN on the basis of being blocked by several members of the Security Council. A dispute of their territorial claims by China, and positioning by the USA for a strategic alliance with Zan'an post-Independence would have the UN Assembly locked down from formally accepting them as a member. Their independence in 1990 from a joint US/Australian occupation would be recognized by the Assembly, however. It would be a matter of acceptance to the UN itself that would be in flux.

[Moraline]

Got beat to the punch on the UN one, but I was going to propose that they have not yet gained admission to the UN on the basis of being blocked by several members of the Security Council. A dispute of their territorial claims by China, and positioning by the USA for a strategic alliance with Zan'an post-Independence would have the UN Assembly locked down from formally accepting them as a member. Their independence in 1990 from a joint US/Australian occupation would be recognized by the Assembly, however. It would be a matter of acceptance to the UN itself that would be in flux.

Since Angel Fire answered the question already, I'll leave it up to them if they wish to change their answer about the UN admission.

Did you have another question that you'd like to give us the answer for?

[Angel Fire]

Got beat to the punch on the UN one, but I was going to propose that they have not yet gained admission to the UN on the basis of being blocked by several members of the Security Council. A dispute of their territorial claims by China, and positioning by the USA for a strategic alliance with Zan'an post-Independence would have the UN Assembly locked down from formally accepting them as a member. Their independence in 1990 from a joint US/Australian occupation would be recognized by the Assembly, however. It would be a matter of acceptance to the UN itself that would be in flux.

My original answer still stays but...

Please add all of Xerial's explanation into the answer!  You certainly read my mind, Xerial! *Hugs*

[Oldknight]

3. Celebrations (local and not ones from other places)

March 4: National Day, an anniversary of the day in 1946 when the island was liberated from Japan as well as the day in 1990 when they gained their current independence in 1990. A day where people celebrate with parties,fireworks.

July 24: Xi Qin Day: an anniversary of the discovery of the island as well as the first settlement,as well as the first dynasty which ruled the island for a few hundred years. This day people celebrate with large parties where they cook traditional foods of the island.

September 13, Junzi a spray where people are encouraged to do acts of public kindness stared off as a Confucianism Holiday

December 3: Feast Date of St. Xavier,large day for catholic population of island as St.Xavier is the patron saint of the island, a day of celebration (actually a real holiday but figured it would fit as a bigger thing here)

[Moraline]

3. Celebrations (local and not ones from other places)

March 4: National Day, an anniversary of the day in 1946 when the island was liberated from Japan as well as the day in 1990 when they gained their current independence in 1990. A day where people celebrate with parties,fireworks.

July 24: Xi Qin Day: an anniversary of the discovery of the island as well as the first settlement,as well as the first dynasty which ruled the island for a few hundred years. This day people celebrate with large parties where they cook traditional foods of the island.

September 13, Junzi a spray where people are encouraged to do acts of public kindness stared off as a Confucianism Holiday

December 3: Feast Date of St. Xavier,large day for catholic population of island as St.Xavier is the patron saint of the island, a day of celebration (actually a real holiday but figured it would fit as a bigger thing here)

Tenshinhan, where did you get this question and number from?

The only cultural thing I have listed so far is number 9. Number 3 is how large is the population.

9.  Give me one major cultural event (with details) that takes place here?

Also, I'm still a bit confused about the demographics and the percentages on the nationalities. Would it be possible for you to break down the %'s for me so I can update that section?

[Ember Star]

I'm confused by all of it! *gets those little cartoon dizzy birds and falls over* @.@ LOL

[Oldknight]

Demographics
A) Courtesy of Tenshinhan
Nationality:
15 percent Chinese, this number has grown a lot since 1990 and the immigration of fishermen looking for jobs. 
15 percent Korean mostly those who came to the island over the years for fishing. 
5 percent Japanese, part of the group who never went home and used the islands favorable position to gain in trade. 
5 percent Southern Asia Philippines Vietnamese etc who come to the island for work.
10 percent American/Aussie businessmen or are connected to the US military outpost on the island.
30 percent mixed as intermarriage has been common over the years between all of the major groups
3 percent Indian a group who came like those from Philippines who came in search of work
12 percent Taiwanese arrived after the Chinese Civil War and the displacement by some by the ROC as well as looking for work.
5 percent Native . 

Yes sorry number 9

[Chrystal]

10: One major celebrity...

Name: Lia Tun

Age: 19

Occupation: Professional Tennis player

Acheivements: Last year, Australian open, unseeded wild card, Quarter finals, knocking out Venus Williams. French Open, seeded 8th, quarer finals. Stella Artois, seeded 9th, semi finals. Wimbledon, seeded 8th, final, second place. US Open, seeded 8th, final, second place.

This year so far, Australian open, seeded 4th, win. French open, seeded 2nd, win.

Lia is a fast rising star in the world of international tennis. Something of a prodigy, she was inspired by watching Wimbledon on the BBC World Service as a tweenager and decided she would do that. She has worked hard and pushed herself, ever since. Her dream is a grand slam and an Olympic gold medal.

Her parents, who are quite wealthy, have supported her dream, and are so proud of her that they can even forgive her taking after many other female tennis players...

(I would actually have no problem whatever playing her as my character...)

[Moraline]

I'm confused by all of it! *gets those little cartoon dizzy birds and falls over* @.@ LOL

I had a feeling that it would get a bit confusing too. That's why I'm doing my best to keep up and keep the summary going on the 2nd post of the thread.  When in doubt, reread post #2.  I'm also crossing off the questions in the first post to show which ones have been answered.


@Everyone: 
I'll do my best to keep the first couple posts updated with any changes and our answers. 

Remember that we can go back and start answering the unanswered questions now.

We'll move into creating player characters soon.





*is updating info with Tenshinhan, and Crystal's updates...*

[Moraline]

My original answer still stays but...

Please add all of Xerial's explanation into the answer!  You certainly read my mind, Xerial! *Hugs*

Can you rewrite it so I can update it. Thanks

[Chrystal]

(I would actually have no problem whatever playing her as my character...)

We'll move into creating player characters soon.

I realise you weren't necessarily referring to that, but it was just a random thought that she would make an interesting character to play in this context. However, I should probably make a different character when we get to it.

[Moraline]

I realise you weren't necessarily referring to that, but it was just a random thought that she would make an interesting character to play in this context. However, I should probably make a different character when we get to it.

My idea/hope is to have us all create a pool of NPC's that; can be played by anyone, and some that are only played by the creators of them like exclusive NPC's. Some will be more fleshed out that others depending on how much we want to fill in for them.

Then we use the characters to play out a scene or two and move onto playing with our other characters for new scenes.  Obviously some people may really like some of their characters more then others and therefore play them more often etc...  It'll keep things fresh all the time.

For example: 

If we take the celebrity character (Lia Tun) that you created. We'll add a heading to that that says:
"Created by Chrystal - Only playable by Chrystal"

Or something like that.

That way she will remain your character and can maybe turn into a more full time character for you as we play. Depending on if you find some fun RP with her that you enjoy. It will be up to you as her creator.

[Angel Fire]

Here is the re-written version.  The Admission part is courtesy of Xerial:

Zan'an gained Independence from the US/Aussie occupation in 1990 after a peaceful argument about what type of government the leaders decided to go with (that government question can be answered by someone else).

They have not yet gained admission to the UN on the basis of being blocked by several members of the Security Council. A dispute of their territorial claims by China, and positioning by the USA for a strategic alliance with Zan'an post-Independence has the UN Assembly locked down from formally accepting them as a member. Their independence in 1990 from a joint US/Australian occupation is recognized by the Assembly, however. It is a matter of acceptance to the UN itself that is in flux.

[Chrystal]

I know we're only supposed to answer one question a day, but, I have this yen to create a constitutional monarchy, With the great grandchild (son or daughter) of the last king and queen who were executed by the Japanese after sending their son into exile in Australia. It would make a great "Princess Diaries" like plot, it the new monarch was a teenager and had no idea who (s)he was?

[Moraline]

Here is the re-written version.  The Admission part is courtesy of Xerial:

Zan'an gained Independence from the US/Aussie occupation in 1990 after a peaceful argument about what type of government the leaders decided to go with (that government question can be answered by someone else).

They have not yet gained admission to the UN on the basis of being blocked by several members of the Security Council. A dispute of their territorial claims by China, and positioning by the USA for a strategic alliance with Zan'an post-Independence has the UN Assembly locked down from formally accepting them as a member. Their independence in 1990 from a joint US/Australian occupation is recognized by the Assembly, however. It is a matter of acceptance to the UN itself that is in flux.

Updated! Thank you.

I know we're only supposed to answer one question a day, but, I have this yen to create a constitutional monarchy, With the great grandchild (son or daughter) of the last king and queen who were executed by the Japanese after sending their son into exile in Australia. It would make a great "Princess Diaries" like plot, it the new monarch was a teenager and had no idea who (s)he was?

Go for it. I give you full permission to submit it. 

I'm looking to get these last few questions wrapped up so we can move into the next phase of development.

[Angel Fire]

I know we're only supposed to answer one question a day, but, I have this yen to create a constitutional monarchy, With the great grandchild (son or daughter) of the last king and queen who were executed by the Japanese after sending their son into exile in Australia. It would make a great "Princess Diaries" like plot, it the new monarch was a teenager and had no idea who (s)he was?

*Smiles* That was exactly the way that I was envisioning the government to be.  If our GM didn't allow you to already answer the question, I would have went the same way as you.

[Oldknight]

The government  idea sounds good to me too.

[Ember Star]

Indeedady

[Chrystal]

14: Government (democracy, communist, monarchy, hybrid?)

A Constitutional Monarchy.

The monarch to have the power of veto over any laws passed by the parliament, the parliament to be elected by the common people once every five years, with the monarch having a power of veto over the appointment of a prime minister. The Monarch's veto can, in turn, be overturned by referendum. In practice it is envisaged that the monarch's role will be largely ceremonial.

The first elections were held in 1992, after the interim government were satisfied that the correct mechanism was in place to ensure the elections were , and would be seen to be, "Free and fair".

There was some violence and some intimidation in outlying villages, but by and large the result was constitutional, and the parliament was formed.

However, the post of Regent was held by a cousin of the last known heir to the throne.

The Island was, until the Japanese invaded, an absolute monarchy, ruled by an hereditary dynasty. The last king, Zan'ang XIV, and his wife Cho Lu, were executed by the Japanese for refusing to bow to the Emperor of Japan. Their son Mi'Ting was smuggled out of the country and grew up in Australia, kept in ignorance of who he was in order to protect him, should Japan invade Australia.

Mi'Ting's cousin Jo'Nan survived the war on a paddy farm, his parents collaborating with the Japanese in order to survive. When the search began for the new Monarch, he was quickly discovered and offerd the crown, but being in his seventies with no offspring, he declined and said he would act as regent until the true heir could be found.



Moraline dear, I'm going to stop there, and  pose the following:

Name the three main political parties in the parliament (and only ONE of them can be either "Republican" or "Democrat" or have either or boh of those words in it's name). Which party is currently in power and who is Prime Minister?

The heir to the thrown has just been located in an Australian high school. who is it?

If you want, I will create the heir, but it's going to cause a constitutional crisis if I do, so it might be better if someone straight did so? *giggles*

[Ember Star]

What if somebody bent made the heir!? LOL

[Chrystal]

Depends what you mean by bent...

If you mean crocked, I don't think that limits it very much? *snigger*

If you mean gay... well, my point being that if I were to create the heir, I would play her as a lesbian, which would result in a problem because she would not have an heir herself, unless... Oh, hee hee... Well, she could adopt... And it would mean that gay marriage would be quickly made legal!

So.. okay. If no-one makes the heir by tomorrow evening, I will. Fair?

[Ember Star]

Oh no. Bent is bi. Gay is sideways. LOL.

[Oldknight]

I was thinking of making up this character was waiting for the government to be accepted before I did

[Angel Fire]

The Government is now accepted so by all means, hon *Smiles*

[Moraline]

Okay we need just a few more questions answered before we can continue:

3.   How large is the population?
7.   Health & Medicine Access?
12. Law Enforcement/Military? (are they the same, is it a local militia, high tech, low tech, ...brief description pls)
13. Tourism (is there a lot of it, why do people come to the city?)

* If I missed a definitive answer to one of those then please quote it here for me. Thanks.

We'll hold off on answering these couple new ones until those other 4 get answered.

Name the three main political parties in the parliament (and only ONE of them can be either "Republican" or "Democrat" or have either or boh of those words in it's name). Which party is currently in power and who is Prime Minister?

The heir to the throne has just been located in an Australian high school. Who is it?

What is the name of the American Naval Air Station on the island? (How big is the Naval Air Station?)

[Chrystal]

Did I say "thrown"? Sheesh

The throne was thrown, The heir threw it through the air!

[Oldknight]

Name: Jin Xi Qin
Age: 18
Personality: A nerd, very much a nerd who grew up with a great love of learning and pushed to do well in school, his focus was on academics alone. He has thus turned into a very focused man but never very popular due to his red status. Still he is pretty average in most ways for a young man, nervous about his future, unsure what it will be. He is though a good hearted young man who has no clue of his origins.
Connection to the royal family, his great grandfather was the the one who escaped to Australia, the knowledges of this was never know and even his origins was unknown by his parents.
Appearance:  http://kuantanmodels.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/yl6m08241.jpg

Population for city 4,756,150

[Angel Fire]

12. Law Enforcement/Military? (are they the same, is it a local militia, high tech, low tech, ...brief description pls)

In the city proper, there is a police force of around 5000 Police officers.  Their methods and technology rank among the one of the best and is modeled by a combination of American and Australian ways of naming.  The list of police officer ranks are as follows:

Officer, Inspector, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Commissioner

The military is a small army and coast guard that has technology that is a little outdated (think 2006 technology) but brave people that fight with a lot of heart and patriotism for their small island nation.  The army has around 2500 soldiers and 500 Coast Guard members.  They can barely keep the pirates and smugglers at bay but they try with all of their might.

Their rankings are modeled from the US ranks of Military.

The Air Force is handled by the US Navy as there is an American Naval Air station stationed on the south end of the island.

I may offer a couple of more questions here if I may:

What is the name of the American Naval Air Station?
How big is the Naval Air Station?

[Moraline]

*updated*


Okay we need just a few more questions answered before we can continue:

3.   How large is the population?
7.  Health & Medicine Access?
12. Law Enforcement/Military? (are they the same, is it a local militia, high tech, low tech, ...brief description pls)
13. Tourism (is there a lot of it, why do people come to the city?)

We'll hold off on answering these couple new ones until those other 2 get answered.

Name the three main political parties in the parliament (and only ONE of them can be either "Republican" or "Democrat" or have either or boh of those words in it's name). Which party is currently in power and who is Prime Minister?

The heir to the throne has just been located in an Australian high school. Who is it?

What is the name of the American Naval Air Station on the island? (How big is the Naval Air Station?)

[Angel Fire]

I made a small update to the number of Police Officers after I found out how big the city is.

[Chrystal]

Right.

7.   Health & Medicine Access?

There are at present only private medical facilities available, with charitable donations supporting free medical care to the poorest and those outside the city. There is a single big hospital in the city, and a number of free clinics supported by the International Red Cross, Médecin Sans Frontière, and other charities, as well as some being supported and sponsored by local businesses.

A motion has been placed before parliament to nationalise these free clinics, paying for them using a variation of the Australian health care system. A 1.5% levy on people on middle income and over and 2.5% on people with high incomes with no private insurance.

[Oldknight]

I will hit the last one

Tourism: Yes there is a lot of it.

People come for a number of reasons. First they Come for e beachfront resorts which are focused on a single strip along the beech. Secondly, they come cot the physical recreation, surfing the waves, sport fishing, and mountain climbing on the largest of the islands mountains.people come due to shop with the cities free trade status enabling goods to be cheaper there than ore nearby places. The cultural center of the city is the old palace of the monarchs which was built 1000 years before and it's numerous tropical gardens, as well as the historical old town, which dates back before the Japanese invasion and Xi'Qin Square which is a large square at the center of the area with a statue of the almost mythical founder of the city. People also come to visit the cultural area like the performing arts center, the local tropical aquarium, the tropical areas for bird watching as well,and the large variety of food found in the different sections of the town.

[Moraline]

*Updated*


Phase 1 Completed: Creating the basic city and nation of Zan'an (Click Me)

Now our next step is to flesh out a couple of questions and create a few NPC's.
-  We can start by laying out what we've created for plot points so far (ex: the monarchy's missing heir).  What have we got so far for plot points?
-  Who do we need to create as NPC's for those plots? (no need to go too indepth, we don't know if these plots will be even played out or not. We just want to add them for flavor.)

Previously asked questions that might aid in our journey:

Name the three main political parties in the parliament (and only ONE of them can be either "Republican" or "Democrat" or have either or boh of those words in it's name). Which party is currently in power and who is Prime Minister?

The heir to the throne has just been located in an Australian high school. Who is it?

What is the name of the American Naval Air Station on the island? (How big is the Naval Air Station?)

[Oldknight]

I put up the heir info a few posts up *points up*  :-)

[Chrystal]

How about this for a plot: The tennis star returns home in a rush because one of her parents is in hospital, and falls in love with a nurse at the hospital.

Would require someone else to play the nurse...

We could also use a NPC for the PM, and the great uncle Regent.

[Angel Fire]

I certainly would not mind playing the nurse if you like. 

I am thinking of rehashing a very old character that I tried to write a novel with over 5 years ago... but never had the inspiration to finish.

[Florence]

Might be worth creating some of the major figures in the criminal and law enforcement circles. Those can be used for a variety of plot points. Either straight up crime dramas and gang stories, or simply for plot points in other stories. Need a source of drama or conflict? A debt to an organized crime syndicate is always a good reason to be stressed out. You could even mix it into the hospital plot, to stir in a little extra drama if needed.

Ya know, who's the current commissioner for example? Are there any prominent figures working on anti-gang, anti-piracy or anti-smuggling task forces?

What yakuza, triad, kkangpae, etc. figures are trying to vie for control of the city? Who are the leaders of the various local street gangs? Who are the most wanted smugglers and pirates?

I actually have an idea in mind already for a kkangpae crime boss, to use as a personal character of my own. I'd be willing to work on more open NPCs for the other criminal elements if no one else has any particular ideas for them.

The kkangpae idea I have is a woman, despite the macho nature of organized crime, who kind of pulled an O-Ren Ishii, and just clawed her way to the top and dealt with anyone who tried to get in her way in rather ruthless manners. She's established herself as a legitimate businesswoman in Zan'an, head a South Korean trading company, which is of course a front.

One problem with the kkangpae is that they're a bit more obscure than triad or yakuza. I know they use tattoos for identification, but I cannot find what sort of tattoos they tend to use. I don't know if they're smaller, easily concealed designs, or something like the big, colorful designs the Yakuza wear.

[Chrystal]

I certainly would not mind playing the nurse if you like. 

I am thinking of rehashing a very old character that I tried to write a novel with over 5 years ago... but never had the inspiration to finish.

Sounds good to me.

Might be worth creating some of the major figures in the criminal and law enforcement circles. Those can be used for a variety of plot points. Either straight up crime dramas and gang stories, or simply for plot points in other stories. Need a source of drama or conflict? A debt to an organized crime syndicate is always a good reason to be stressed out. You could even mix it into the hospital plot, to stir in a little extra drama if needed.

Ya know, who's the current commissioner for example? Are there any prominent figures working on anti-gang, anti-piracy or anti-smuggling task forces?

What yakuza, triad, kkangpae, etc. figures are trying to vie for control of the city? Who are the leaders of the various local street gangs? Who are the most wanted smugglers and pirates?

I actually have an idea in mind already for a kkangpae crime boss, to use as a personal character of my own. I'd be willing to work on more open NPCs for the other criminal elements if no one else has any particular ideas for them.

The kkangpae idea I have is a woman, despite the macho nature of organized crime, who kind of pulled an O-Ren Ishii, and just clawed her way to the top and dealt with anyone who tried to get in her way in rather ruthless manners. She's established herself as a legitimate businesswoman in Zan'an, head a South Korean trading company, which is of course a front.

One problem with the kkangpae is that they're a bit more obscure than triad or yakuza. I know they use tattoos for identification, but I cannot find what sort of tattoos they tend to use. I don't know if they're smaller, easily concealed designs, or something like the big, colorful designs the Yakuza wear.

I was actually thinking of creating a main character as being a Lawyer, possibly Ausralian, so criminals and cops would be useful.

[Angel Fire]

I totally agree.  I am getting inspiration from the Law & Order series so I could create an Inspector that could investigate the crimes.  I would not mind having someone as her partner.  The partner could be a man or a woman... I am not very particular in that regard unless some sexual tensions arise.  Whoever wishes to be my Inspector's partner can PM me to discuss any details that we need.

I am not sure what kind of lawyer you have in mind but I am thinking of going with the Aussie version in giving the title of "Crown Prosecutor" for those lawyers that prosecute the crimes.

[Chrystal]

That's actually the British version, given that the Crown in question would be Lizzie 2's... but I think it works better that the US "District Attorney", given that the place is so small that there wouldn't be that many "districts"...

Actually, Crown Attorney might work rather well?

My lawyer character is probably going to be more a corporate lawyer than a criminal one, but could do either.

Other plot ideas:

1) Tourist taken prisoner by pirates, develops Stockholm syndrome. Rescued by Australian TAG troops, led by a Zan'ani naval commander. This can be split in two or done as a single plot

2) An army raid on a criminal stronghold on the far side of the is;land discovers that thjere are no pirates or gangsters there at all, just innocent peasant fishermen and their families. Unfortunately the whole thing is filmed by a couple of American tourists who just happen to have taken a boat to the village.

3) OH and as a grand climax, how about "The Vulcans Strike Back!" - The long dormant volcano on the island opens a bleary eye and yawns, and people start wondering if there is going to be an eruption ...

So characters (can be PC or NPC) for each of those...

1) The tourist, the pirate chief, NPC pirates, the Zan'ani naval commander, the Ausralian TAG squad commander, NPC TAG troops.

2) Army captain, Village headman, NPC villagers, NPC soldiers, Tourists with camera phones.

3) The King, the PM, the City Mayor, the Royal Volcanologist/Geologist. Commander of the US air base. NPC M'aka'ato'go, the god of the volcano!

If I think of any more I will let you all know...

[Moraline]

Okay so someone needs to create a list of plot points and NPC's needed like this...

Example:

<Name of plot: _______ >

<Plot outline in brief. 
Blurb about what's happening as a result of some of the things noted in the city notes that we've already established.>

<List of primary NPC's needed for this.>

Then after that, we can get to the business of creating NPC's for it. Tell us if you are open to other people making NPC's for your plot outline, etc...

* Also, any suggestions on a basic character outline? ( Something very simple for NPC creation. ) It must include at the top of it a clear indication of "Creator:     & Character is Open for others to play them: Y/N"  Or something like that.

Keep in mind that I don't mind if we have more then one plot. Make them small and simple at first. These are going to be little plots that our various characters can play out. (Chrystal's so far are the type of mini-plots that I'm looking for.)

[Chrystal]

Okay so someone needs to create a list of plot points and NPC's needed like this...

*Cough*GM*Cough*

Nah, I'm kidding, M. But what would be handy would be the formatting code for plot creation... Then you could either open a thread and we post our plots there, or we PM them to you for approval and you post them... same as with a normal character thread.

Could do the same with the NPCs, too. The only issue there is it is taking away two of your threads. How many of us are there? five or six? That gives 10 or 12 threads. I don't know how many you want to use, but for an entire country, that's not many if you want to give each sub-plot a thread...

[Moraline]

*Cough*GM*Cough*

Nah, I'm kidding, M. But what would be handy would be the formatting code for plot creation... Then you could either open a thread and we post our plots there, or we PM them to you for approval and you post them... same as with a normal character thread.

Could do the same with the NPCs, too. The only issue there is it is taking away two of your threads. How many of us are there? five or six? That gives 10 or 12 threads. I don't know how many you want to use, but for an entire country, that's not many if you want to give each sub-plot a thread...

Allow me to demonstrate what I have in mind for threads....

C-A-C World Building OOC:   
More world building discussions, plot discussions, etc...

C-A-C Classifieds/L4RP OOC:   
A place to actively advertise plots/scenes looking for other players to join you. (Keep in mind the idea is that this RP will be more like a series of small scenes with various characters in them. Some interrelated and some not. All based on what each individual is looking for.)

C-A-C Denizens & Business Directory: 
The actual listing of all characters (who created them and if the characters are open for anyone to use them or not.). Plus a listing of all locations/businesses etc in the nation of Zan'an that we can use for our scenes/plots etc...

C-A-C Personal Accommodations:
RP threads for private personal accommodations.

C-A-C Cherry Blossoms Massage & Escort:
* A business that I created that I have yet to post with it's list of NPC escorts. Players will be invited to use the service, create characters for it, and/or use it for their plots/scenes.

Some other thread ideas that have been floating around in my head...
C-A-C Shopping/Market District RP
C-A-C Underbelly RP
C-A-C Political/Governence RP
C-A-C Post & Times News

Our current list of participants that have been active:
Angel Fire
Chrystal
Ember Star
Finn Mackenna
JackWhite
Moraline
Tenshinhan
Winterborn
Xerial
ZephySempai

*EDIT*
Still openly recruiting players to live and play out scenes with others in our player created City nation of Zan'an (see second post for cities details.)

[Chrystal]

Looks good. Basically you are looking to create a forum within the forum, to give people an almost infinite ability to create settings and plots in an almost real-world setting, without all the hassle of needing to create their own world.

It's epic in scope :D

[Angel Fire]

Wow... This is something that I never thought about in my visions of creating worlds.  I just have one thing more to say...

You sooo totally rock, Moraline! *Glomps our world creator in happiness*

[ZephySempai]

I was thinking about creating a sort of guardian character for the Heir to the throne. Maybe like, someone who knows of his lineage and is directly involved in his life to make sure no one comes to harm him.

The guardian would play the role of a family friend and could either be NPC or PC. I'll more than likely leave him Open.

[Ember Star]

Okay, here's a question raised. Since this is a fictional world/country would the possibility of bringing fantasy into it be possible (I.E. A local super hero)? Or are we keeping this strictly realistic humans?

Or, instead of that. What would you say to a local vigilante that's just a normal human with skills (like Arrow, Batman, or Iron Man)?

[Florence]

Okay, here's a question raised. Since this is a fictional world/country would the possibility of bringing fantasy into it be possible (I.E. A local super hero)? Or are we keeping this strictly realistic humans?

Or, instead of that. What would you say to a local vigilante that's just a normal human with skills (like Arrow, Batman, or Iron Man)?

I think we're keeping it relatively realistic, but I actually have a related question.

Since we've got an Asian city with your classic Asian gangs, how much are we allowing for reasonable suspension of disbelief in terms of like... martial arts movie type stuff. Not like, ya know, fighting an army off bare handed, but just HOW badass are martial arts allowed to be?

Edit: To clarify, like... are we talking... purely realistic. As in... a highly skilled martial artist can be pretty dangerous in unarmed combat, but can still be taken down rather easily if outnumbered or ambushed. Or maybe a there's a little liberty for the sake of cinematic goodness. In that case, maybe a martial artist is capable of pretty much holding their own against unrealistic numbers in unarmed combat, but still needs to be careful when dealing with armed opponents... and of course, there's always the possibility that their opponent might be just as skilled as them.

I realize, that this might not be a combat-heavy rp, as the setup does seem more focused on modern social drama type stuff; but I think its worth having these sort of things worked out before we have one person playing it strictly realistic, and another trying to go all Fist of the North Star.

[Moraline]

Looks good. Basically you are looking to create a forum within the forum, to give people an almost infinite ability to create settings and plots in an almost real-world setting, without all the hassle of needing to create their own world.

It's epic in scope :D

Basically this is it.

I suspect that as we get going there will only be a few plots running as people get into little groups. Then we'll have it free so people can enter and advertise like they do in the One Shot Stories RP section of E. Then people with limited time or a lot of time can team up for quickie single scene type RP's.

Then each and every RP will be adding layers to the story of the little Island Nation of Zan'an.  All of it created by the players.

Okay, here's a question raised. Since this is a fictional world/country would the possibility of bringing fantasy into it be possible (I.E. A local super hero)? Or are we keeping this strictly realistic humans?

Or, instead of that. What would you say to a local vigilante that's just a normal human with skills (like Arrow, Batman, or Iron Man)?

For now we are keeping it totally realistic but that does not preclude the possibility in the future of adding things. We'll see as we get going. I don't want to jump ahead of myself too much.


*NOTE*

I'll be putting up threads soon.

[Moraline]

*Update*

I created a few threads for you all to look over. Make any comments you might have about them here so we can finish getting them organized. Feel free to post to them if you are ready or would like to do so.

Links:
[C-A-C] Create-A-City World Building
[C-A-C] Classifieds/L4RP OOC
[C-A-C] Denizens & Business Directory

Here's the code for my little profile banner icon for the game if anyone would like to use it:

Code Select Expand

[url=https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=193118.0][img]https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/af/Create-a-city-icon_sm.png[/img][/url]


Note! We are still recruiting as this game can encompass many small one shot RP scenes as well.  So there is lots of room for players. It's a game and setting all built by the players in it.

[Moraline]

For anyone wanting to create a character and play in this world, here is the character sheet:

Code Select Expand

<right or left justified, image of character, please try to re-size it so it's no larger then 400px tall>
[b]Creator's Name[/b]:
[b]Playable[/b]:  Y/N   <This tells other players if the character is free to be used by them for their own plots>

[b]Character's Name[/b]: 
[b]Age[/b]:
[b]Occupation[/b]: 
[b]Where do they live[/b]:   <in the city center, slums, rich neighborhood, rural part of the island, etc...>
[b]Physical Description[/b]: 
<Whatever major physical attributes or permanent markings that are not visible in the image provided.>

[b]Hooks[/b]: 
<Short list of very specific personality quirks or important notes.
Ex: licks lips a lot, will run at first sign of trouble, is the step-sibling of the Mayor's wife, etc...>

[b]Items[/b]: 
<List of items that they commonly carry on them>

[b]Tales[/b]: 
<Any backstory that you wish to relate or important plots that have been played out by this character. Please contact the character's creator to have tales added when necessary.>


Submit them here and ask questions here for approval.

Eventually, if accepted, you will be posting them here:  C-A-C Denizens & Business Directory

[Chrystal]

I'm just a little bit puzzled by what you require.

Do you want us to post things in the three threads you have opened, or submit them to you first?

[Moraline]

Recruitment is Open

I'm just a little bit puzzled by what you require.

Do you want us to post things in the three threads you have opened, or submit them to you first?

I trust you to post them in the threads that I've created already. Then if you need a thread created for a role play let me know and we'll begin creating the actual "RP threads."

If you have questions about what's needed then feel free to ask any question you might have as I'm sure others might be wondering them same things themselves.

Here's a little something that I sent to someone else today:

About the game, it's a build your own adventure type of a game. If you are familiar with the Play-By-Post: One Shots section of E? Basically it's like that section. Together we all build (and are building) a small nation island called Zan'an (see world building thread. It's set in modern day with no real major changes to the world around us.

Then we create our own plot ideas (like some of the ones proposed here earlier),
Then we advertise them in the thread that I created for that purpose. In your post you say how many people you need for the story idea you have and then hopefully pick up one or more people interested in playing out your mini-scenario with you.

Then each and every character/business etc... gets created and added to the directory thread and our little role playing world slowly builds up like that.

...

Yours,
~ Moraline

Recruitment is Open