Interest check: The Levantine Kingdom

[Silk]

The World of Gaia

Setting:  High Fantasy. The culture of this world is generally Victorian/Romanic in nature. The architecture in the world of Ivalice from Final Fantasy 12 would be a very good example.

Synopsis: Sunstone, Gaia’s most valuable resource. It is used to power anything and everything from street lamps to airships. Typically, Sunstone is mined, but on occasion these radiant gold stones fall from the sky. Unfortunately, Sunstone is a non-renewable resource, and for this reason war is not uncommon to secure Sunstone ‘hotspots’.

Humans, Dwarves and Orcs and Goblins are the dominant users of Sunstone. Elves do not rely on Sunstone; however, their forest homelands contain large amount of Sunstone deposits, and thus the Elves are forced to protect the beauty of their homeland from the other warring races. The dwellings of Dragons and Mermen frequently contain Sunstone as well. It would suffice to say that hostility between the races of Gaia is quite frankly, very high.

As of yet, no race has found a method of harnessing the power of Sunstone to utilize as a weapon of mass destruction, but it is assumed that this is a major objective of all the Sunstone reliant races. It is hypothesized that whoever is the first to utilize
Sunstone as a weapon will be the victor of this age old war.

Technology: Sunstone tech, black powder, Steam power

Sunstone tech: May be used for a variety of things except for weapons. This means no energy weapons.

Black Powder: Essentially, intricate flintlock weapons and cannons.

Steam Power: Think trains, though trains can run sunstone. Ones that do are faster.

Races: Humans, Elves, Half-Elves, Drow, Dwarves, Halflings, Orcs, Half-Orcs, Goblins, Trolls, Ogres, Minotaurs, Vampires, Lycanthropes, Fey, Mermen, Cat People, Centaurs. (Silk -A dragon in human form wouldn't be hanging around for shits and giggles) But as a rule, the basic races within the DnD rulebook will not need approval.)

Main Factions

The Levantine Kingdom: The largest human kingdom, and the second largest race on Gaia. The ruler ship is matriarchal which means that the Empress is at the top of the hierarchy. This Empress is revered like a Goddess. In the Empire’s ancient manuscripts, it is written that the royal family’s line descends from the Divine. Commoners (anyone not of Royalty or Noble Blood) are not allowed to set their eyes upon the Empress or the royal family. It is The Divine Law.

The Dwarf Kingdom: Simply put, the Kingdom of the Dwarves, they live underground. Seldom do they walk the Surface of Gaia except to do War. Their labyrinthine homes are of the finest stonework in all the world and they are fine engineers of sunstone technology. Contrary to popular belief, Dwarven women do not have beards.

The People of the Forest: Elves are keepers of nature. They worship the land, for it gives them everything. They live perfectly fine without the intricacies of Sunstone. They feared for their archers and powerful anima (Magic).

The Legion (Orcs, Goblins, Trolls, and many other monstrous humanoids.): The supreme ruler of this mass is called the Warchief. The Warchief may be challenged at anytime for his position, for only the strongest is fit to rule. They are the most numerous of all races. Thankfully, they are not the most intelligent. Opposed to horses, they ride giant wolves called worgs.

The Slavers Guild: A large, cruel, and relatively neutral organization made up of races all across Gaia. They deal in slaves or anyone unfortunate enough to be captured by them. They have hubs from where they do business in many nations. Humans, this includes Empire and several other Human nations are their largest customers, accounting for 90% percent of the Slavers guild’s profits.

Titles/Positions that really stand out but aren’t really needed: (First come first serve basis on these)
-Empress(Human): Silk
-Prince(Human)
-Princess(Human)
-Dwarf King(Dwarf)
-Lady of the Wood(Elf): Snowflake Fairy Aeval
-Warchief(Orc)

Other Positions
-Nobles, Ambassadors, Royal Guards, Soldiers, Bodyguards, Servants, Commoners, Slaves, Sell-swords, Royal Harem women, etc.

BASIC RULES
-No modding of any form
-No auto-hits without the permission of the player
-I don’t care how you treat each other in character, but respect your fellow role player
-Swear if you like, but don’t take it overboard like a drunken sailor.
-No one liners. Please try to keep your posts over 100 words that are worth reading.
-Remember that I am the GM. This means my words are the rules. Stick to rules and you should be fine.
-Have fun.
-This is going to extreme, so make sure to check with players to confirm what is acceptable to them.

Rules for Vampires:
-Vampires can walk about in full daylight, but they are only as strong as a human being at peak physical condition, they do not heal as fast, and they cannot use any of their special powers (if they have any) during the daylight hours. Vampires also get sunburned very, very, easily. These sunburns take just as long to heal as it would for a human. Vampires still need to sleep, typically during the day. If they go without sleep for a couple of days, they will suffer the same effects a human does when it doesn’t sleep for a long time unless the vampire feeds very often.

Rules for Magic (Anima)
-Anima users use life energy when performing Anime. This produces strain on their bodies. If an Anima user pushes oneself too hard it could backfire and could possibly result in death
-Anima users can replenish some of their power, and eventually all of this spent life-force by resting.

Basic Character Profile Layout

Name:
Apparent Age:
Actual Age: (Keep it under 500 years)
Race:
Anima: (If your character possesses it.)
Title:
Appearance: (A description or a picture, or both.)
Personality: (Only a small description is required.)
History:

*if you find the Character Profile Layout lacking, please feel free to add anything you like.
Other information:

-Most of the role play will take place in the Levantine Kingdom. If things are too widespread, the role play will fall apart. Remember this. So have a good reason why your character is in The Levantine Kingdom. Your character may be hiding his race by wearing a cloak at all times in public and this is fine by me, or he/she might be a slave.
-I hoping that this RP has a high focus on the master/slave type genre, political intrigue and drama.
-This RP shouldn’t be seen as combat based RP, but combat is allowed. It’s a massive world for players to interact in. If one chooses they never have to leave their home in the Empire, if you know what you mean. Just have fun.
-When it comes to slave auction money really has no bearing. It should come down to whoever the owner of the slave character wants to go with. This should be revealed to the bidders OOC to avoid confusion and endless bidding wars because we all have infinite money unless someone wants to formulate rules on it.
-In the Levantine Kingdom, only Royalty, Nobles or those that work with royalty e.g. Ambassadors, Royal Guards, and the like can own slaves. Royal Harem women cannot own slaves.
Players:


AthenaNude - Ambassador
AceShriner - Blacksmith
rancorius - Ranger (halfling or elf)

[AceShriner]

This would be something I could gladly jump on. ^^

Is this going to have a plot of sorts or are we going to just make our characters and jump into this world and let the winds have thier way us? I'm for either lol. On a side note since positions are going to be a first come first serve basis can I be the Levantine local blacksmith?

[Arander]

An idea like this was done once before, although it's been pretty much dead for at least a year or two

Medieval Master & Servant

It got to be quite a large game, with dozens of games going on within the same kingdom (usually the same city). It did have a very general plot over the whole game, but for the most part people just did their own games within the main setting.

I for one would love to see something similar start up once again. A large setting where people can come and go, starting their own locations (tavern, brothel, business, etc...) and interacting in and around them with all manner of different players.

I'd love to play a common thief preying on the rich of the city.

[rancorius]

sounds fun, i'd do either elf or halfing ranger

[AthenaNude]

Sounds intriguing.  I wouldn't mind playing a sexy high-ranking ambassador from one of the nearby nations (perhaps a desert country). 

[Silk]

Yeah, something akin to Master and servant is what I had in mind, although maybe not on such a grand scale intially.

I'm mostly going to be leaving you guys to decide on your own major plots for your characters, but there is also the option of the general plot sometimes intervening in particular areas. (Example maybe a bandit raid at a nearby village, which could result those int he village fighting back and nearby areas sending reinforcements) If you guys would like. But as stating earlier, best keep the area kept to a fairly small area until there is more interest and activity.

The reason why I want to keep the main plot away from player characters with them getting involved rather than a plot focused on player characters is because in almost all Rps I get into, one player who is vital to the current plot disappears and leaves 4-5 others waiting for a few weeks hoping for a reply, and results in a loss of interest.

[Kunoichi]

Hmm.  Well, since nobody else seems to have taken the spot of 'Royal Magus'...

[Silk]

Character requests are up on top :)

[AceShriner]

Quick question. Are our characters limited to what they are by profession? Or could, for example, the town crier also be elven spy? another example, the bread maker could also be an magi?

[Vandren]

I'd be interested in a minor to mid-range noble (baron to count level), possibly half-Dwarf or full blooded Dwarf and probably with magical talent

[Silk]

Quick question. Are our characters limited to what they are by profession? Or could, for example, the town crier also be elven spy? another example, the bread maker could also be an magi?

Within reason, and ideally a story behind to why that is the case. If you were a retired teacher at the school of magi for example and is just trying to live a humble life as a bread maker would be fine for e.g.

[Rune]

I would be interested in playing this as well.

[Soren]

I am very interested.

[Silk]

Its great to see some interest :D Let me know what sort of characters you would like to go with.

[Soren]

I'll would like to play a Scholar/Ambassador for the Levantine Kingdom. Do we have permission to put up our character profiles?

[Rune]

I was thinking about playing a nobleman who is a student of magic, in particular magical control, compulsions and summonings.

[Silk]

Character profiles are good to go, want me to set up a seperate page for the profiles in another? And I'm not sure how you'll want to grade this non-con or extreme ect.

And you can have those magical stuff as a nobleman, but you will need to keep it secret because of royalty knew of it, you wouldn't be anywhere near the castle, if not dead.

[Rune]

I would keep it as more of a private hobby.

[Silk]

Fair enough, just looking at it form the royal point of veiw of "Hang on that lord can control us, he is dangerous kepe him away"

[Rachubka]

Iiiiif a princess or something pops up, I'd be glad to be her knight / bodyguard / Lady in waiting. :D

[Silk]

If the more important roles are not taken like the royals then they will be acting NPC's that I can control until someone chooses to take the role :)

[Carlissa]

Can pregnancy be included in this? ;)

[Silk]

I don't see why not, its more of one massive sandbox with optional main plot rather than "This is the story you do as I say" So there is no reason to why pregnancy wouldnt be allowed as its a common part of life :D

[AceShriner]

For now i'll PM you my profile when I get a moment and you can tell me whether or not you approve. ^^

[Carlissa]

Ok, sweet! What species is the royal family? I have a character in mind tht is an elf, but I can go with a human as well...

[Ryujin]

Would anyone object to throwing a dragonian into the mix? Not sure yet what position he would hold but I'm definitely interested.

[Silk]

Would anyone object to throwing a Draconian into the mix? Not sure yet what position he would hold but I'm definitely interested.

Could you elaborate on what sort of stuff the character would have? For all I know it could be between a full dragon to a argonian out of elder scrolls.

I would have preferred a human royal family, however you could have married in to the family if you was royalty from another kingdom, just remember that you would have to work extra hard to earn respect from the human populace :)

[Ryujin]

Technically my dragonians stem from an original archetype I made, but if I had to compare it to other dragonians, mostly they would resemble Dragonlance dragonians. http://shokushu.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=4 Here is a link to said archetype. I doubt I need to say it, but his backstory was made for that specific board, so you can just ignore that part.

[Silk]

Thats a link to argonian pictures :)

[Ryujin]

Sorry, edited. ^^;

[Silk]

I'm a bit unsure on the magic aspects, and if he was taught in the way of the samurai he would be fairly funneled into a bodyguard role, most likely for the royal family, maybe a high ranking military official.

Although he would not have access to his personal harem. He would have access to the royal harem that all high ranking military officials would.

The problem I have with the magic is that being a dragonian, a skilled warrior, AND a skilled mage is a bit much.

[Ryujin]

As I said, that particular character was made for a specific board. I tend to modify a lot of the character parameters to fit the scenario.

Which brings me to my next point, though it's not to argue with you. How old do you think he is in the link, and how old do you expect him to be in Levantine? And for his magic, it's pretty specialized I think. It's not he can summon up spirits or demons or has general magic wielding skill.

In any case, it's no big deal if I have to tone his abilities down a few notches. Hell, I'll make him smaller if you want.

[Silk]

Smaller would be appreciated, I'm geussing that if he is only recently coming into his manliness, he would be around 500-600 years old? Assuming that he stopped aging when he was turned into a statue.

Again its just one of those things I have is for every stregnth a character has, I'd prefer that there would be a weakness to even it out. Because RPing with someone whos character is the equivilant of god is not exactly fun.

[Ryujin]

True enough. How about I knock him down to 7 feet, 650 lbs, made him "shorter" by about 4-6 inches and cut out the shadows and illusions? He'll have a store of ofudas made by somebody else. How's that?

[Silk]

The rest is fine :) But what is Ofuda?

[Ryujin]

Japanese charms, but in this case they're more like specialized spells on paper that can be used on demand. For the most part they are not offensive oriented, but if they are their power is limited in comparison to a spell cast by a fully trained magic user.

http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&um=1&sa=1&q=Ofuda&btnG=Search&aq=f&oq=&aqi=&start=0

[Silk]

That sounds alot more reasonable :) Keep in mind possesions can be stolen though :)

[Soren]

Silk and I, and maybe Rune are currently in collaboration for this RP.

Ryujin, I don't disagree with your idea, but I was going to take the name Draconian for a race of my own. Your character is similar to a half-dragon. That can work. If not, I am willing to change my character's race to 'Ancient Ones'. It's no big deal. I will even allow your shadow magic. Really Silk, it's not that powerful. I'll allow the ofuda's as well. I've been working on a system for magic. I would allow you to have fire and shadow magic types. Typically, you can only have one.

Everything will be up soon, hopefully. After it has been posted up, you can better adapt your character to the setting.

[AceShriner]

Hmm. I havent gotten an answer back but since it seems more than one person is working on this I'll just post here instead. Not gonna post the whole bio yet though, just the bits I think might be under question.

I had intended my black smith to be an ex-warrior of a far of kingdom of warrior magi. He would have been exiled for his chosen practice of necromancy, a magic frowned on in that society, and then found work here in Levantine as a blacksmith. His only real skills being war and necromancy. The blacksmithing role is done by undead he would have raised who had already possessed the skill to work metal in thier life.

[Soren]

Scratch the rules on magic.

[Vandren]

With apologies, I'm out.  The way things are looking to go . . . doesn't hold much interest for me, especially if the magic system Soren's proposed is used (have major issues with fantasy stereotype-based systems; with no offense intended to Soren).

[Soren]

Vandren,

The way things are looking to go?

I see, so the magic system is a make or break for you. This role play isn't about magic. It's about role playing and having fun. If you feel the magic system is restricting you from role playing well then this role play really isn't for you because it's not or rather it shouldn't be centered around magic or combat strictly; however, combat is not excluded.

What would you propose anyhow? If you have any suggestions I am more than willing to hear it. I'm sure we can reach a compromise.

[Ryujin]

Soren your jibber jabber gives me a headache. I don't even what system you're citing all that from. Frankly I'll just be happy to keep my ofudas and let that be the end of it. I don't looking for a fight, I'm just here to play man.

As for your draconian race you can have the name. I'll just switch Mine to Drachen or Drakken or... something.

[Carlissa]

Soren your jibber jabber gives me a headache. I don't even what system you're citing all that from. Frankly I'll just be happy to keep my ofudas and let that be the end of it. I don't looking for a fight, I'm just here to play man.

As for your draconian race you can have the name. I'll just switch Mine to Drachen or Drakken or... something.

Well, she is just trying to help, Ryujin...

Ok, that's cool that I can't be a royal. I'll be a mage then! Pregnant elf mage! Woot!

[Ryujin]

Please don't mind the way I speak, because I really don't mean anything by it. It comes from being raised in a messed up family. Anyway, I'm all I'm saying is that I'm here to RP and have some fun, that's all.

[Vandren]

The way things are looking to go?

Yep.

I see, so the magic system is a make or break for you. This role play isn't about magic. It's about role playing and having fun. If you feel the magic system is restricting you from role playing well then this role play really isn't for you because it's not or rather it shouldn't be centered around magic or combat strictly; however, combat is not excluded.

Thanks for trying to put words in people's mouths or to be telepathic.  Sadly, neither seems to be working today.  After 25+ years of RPing and 13+ of writing, I'm not that shallow.  Nor do I necessarily feel the need to list every issue I've got (and there are several based on many of the posts here thus far, not just your's, so there's no need to feel persecuted).  Please don't try to make up my motives, because you don't have enough information to figure out even the most surface level motivation in this case.  In simple form: the idea had potential, IMO, based on early posts, but I'm not all that interested in how it is developing, end of story.

That said, a magic system is important because, as Orson Scott Card noted (probably the only thing he and I agree on), it says something about the logic and structure of the world in which it is situated.  It is also an important element of how fantasy worlds work and develop (see Videssos versus Lankhmar versus Melnibone versus Deryni versus Discworld, for example).  And, quite frankly, the system as outlined makes no logical sense.  Instead, it seems to be based on overdone cliches and video game randomness.  Now, that said, there might be more explanation to it that has just been left out for the sake of brevity in the given situation and would make some sort of logical sense, in which case, great.
-- To clarify, the above applies mostly to the division of branches to races and the choice of terminology ("anima" makes no sense in this context as currently discussed).  The Shadow and Arcane division also appears to be more random than anything else.  The "draws its power from the caster" part is not an issue as such, IMO (it's old hat for a GURPS-er and fantasist).

[Silk]

Same, I don't mind magic as long as it isn't stupidly overwhelming. I'm OK to allow alot of things to happen. But that is very reliant on player discretion, which after I had RPS where half demon women are somehow able to seduce the entire royal family, become the regent above them without anyone batting a eyelid over this or any resistance from the significant characters. I'm very skeptical about player discretion.

And to be honest Vandren. If this is the sort of attitude you have towards people trying to make a enjoyable game for everyone. The I don't really think I would want you in any of my RPs.

[Soren]

Vandren,

Your concerns have been noted.

This is a message for everyone: Forget the rules around magic. It is now freeform. Do what you like within reason.

Have fun.

*Edit

Carlissa, you can be a royal character if you want.

[AthenaNude]

I believe in the old KISS method (Keep It Simple, Stupid).  If there's a way to make anything less complicated then it is to be lauded.  I like the free form method much more than using any sort of gaming system but I'm biased since I haven't played any tabletop RPG's in a long time...and free form lends itself to more desirable results than mere chance or the fickle roll of the dice.  As long as it isn't abused I see nothing wrong with free form.

Me, I'm happy to play a fun-loving ambassador from a distant exotic land, eager to build new friendships and explore fresh challenges.

[Soren]

I agree Athena. Kisses for everyone. Athena, you can have your exotic kingdom as well.

You guys can start posting character profiles.

Silk will keep all the updates on the first page.

{Here is my profile…}

Name: Soren Windam
Apparent Age: 17-19
Actual Age: 21
Handedness: Ambidextrous
Eye Colour: Crimson
Hair Colour: Onyx
Height: 162.56cm; 5' 4”
Weight:  45kg, 100lbs
Build: Short and Slender

Race: Draconian. An ancient people remembered only in myths and legend. They were said to have wings, and lived in vast cities above the clouds. Legend has it that they destroyed themselves; infact, Soren may be the last surviving member of his race.

Appearance: Soren is a young man with straight silky but heavy onyx hair that flows down past the small of his back, hair contrasted by his light complexion. His eyes are crimson. Standing at average height for a woman, Soren has a slender frame with feminine curves, the hourglass figure. On close inspection one can also notice that his index finger is longer than his ring finger and the front his neck presents no sign of a laryngeal prominence. His voice sounds somewhat feminine though not the stereotypical gay male voice, but the high and stout voice of a refined woman. As a consequential result, Soren's physical features and higher than normal voice for a man make him easily mistaken for a young lady. Occasionally, this embarrassing situation is diffused when Soren confronts the onlooker and says "I am a man." Of course, there are some who are skeptics and many of whom would more accurately be coined as perverts in his mind.

This dilemma is due to Soren having a Disorder of Sex Development (DSD) which is a medical term referring to congenital conditions in which development of chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex is atypical. Basically, he is an intersex male, and genetically, he is a male with the XY Chromosome, but he possesses female reproductive sex organs. He is infertile but does menstruate a few times a year and is much more likely to spur a random and perhaps unexpected cycle if he behaves 'too feminine' for several days. The amount of excess estrogen produced through this behaviour is enough to bring about a menstrual cycle along with the slight swelling of his normally flat chest which is usually a tell-tale sign that he had better get his act together.

Very few people know of this for certain. Among these people are Soren’s Stepmother and her bodyguard, and Yui.

Occupation: Before being an ambassador for the state, Soren is a scholar.
Likes: Biology, botany, educational literature, teaching and himself of course.
Dislikes: A great many things though particularly, he dislikes sadists.
Markings: He has an oddly shaped birth mark which is centered on his forehead. It is hidden with a little makeup.
Personality: Soren can be quite the narcissist at times and may often seem rude, speaking to people as if they are inferior to him, but his true nature is very different. However, this excludes his narcissist behavior.

Weapons of Choice: His mind and if that does not work, a well concealed dagger that is laced with an extremely potent and deadly neurotoxin. Don’t be fooled though, Soren isn’t good with daggers or any type of weapon in general. Physically, he isn’t strong at all but he is graceful and dexterous.

History: Simply put, Soren was a bastard in more than one way. Both Soren and his mother were fortunate that a man of high class gentry took them in and married his gorgeous mother. At his young age Soren was aware that his so called father might have had ulterior motives so he never really accepted the man as such but that didn’t mean Soren hadn’t respected him, after-all he did enroll him in the finest academic institutions available.

Some years later Soren’s mother had died of a slow working illness of which there was no cure. This was a devastating and inevitable loss for him at his still young age, but he still persevered and dug himself deeper into his studies to compensate. Soren’s father however was said to have taken the death of his wife more gravely and after a few more years he also died, leaving the entire estate in Soren’s hands.

Unfortunately, after the death of Soren’s mother his stepfather quickly found a young new woman for himself. At 5’ 9”, she was a taller than her husband by an inch at least. Her being an accountant was the added bonus, so he had her placed into the position of Head of Financial Affairs in the Empire in their first two years of their marriage. She also works closely with The Slavers Guild. Soren did not approve of her. She was meddlesome, especially impolite to him when his stepfather wasn’t around and dreadfully controlling.

Presently, Soren lives with his abusive step mother, who on a daily basis --anytime Soren is around his stepmother at home or in private she verbally abuses or humiliates him to almost limitless extent. She will try to find anything to berate him about, from the way he walks to the way he talks, his ‘physical’ condition, his studious lifestyle and the ‘naughty’ habit of his, even in front of his friends. If Soren says so much as one word in these one sided arguments --being him this is a difficult task-- it escalates her already inappropriate and absurd behaviour. Blood and bruises are rare but not uncommon at the end of it all.  Soren’s stepmother seems to enjoy this, though with others, she would never dream of behaving in this manner, however; she is to some extent a sadist and most definitely will step on anyone who will let her. Not to mention, she rarely calls Soren by his given name. She has settled on the nickname Serena for quite some years.

Fortunately for Soren, she is a busy person herself and frequents travel. The down side to her frequent travels is she hardly ever leaves without her personal assistant with whom Soren has developed a close relationship. Soren seems to have a crush on her but she doesn’t seem as anything more than a good friend. She is an extensively trained bodyguard. She is six feet tall and boasts more muscle than the average male but she is clearly a women and there is no mistaking this.

Soren has his own personal assistant as well, a young oriental lady by the name Yui Kirihara who takes great pride in her bust. How she came to be Soren’s personal assistant is a troublesome story. Her happy go lucky demeanor has grown on him and he continues to learn to tolerate her. Soren doesn’t know much about her other than she is trained in the oriental martial arts and that she is a habitual pervert, at least around him. If Soren were to accumulate a dollar for every time Yui made an advance on him, or blurted out a perversely snide statement, he would be considerably wealthier.

When Soren is at his estate, he can usually be found in his quarters, in the library reading, or his laboratory with Yui close by, somewhere.

Other: All the servants at Soren’s estate are female.

{This is my second character: If someone wants to play Yui, and thinks they can play this character well, PM me.}

Name: Yui Kurenai
Apparent Age: 17-19
Actual Age: 19
Handedness: Right
Eye Colour: Grey
Hair Colour: Black
Height: 169 cm; 5’ 6½”
Weight: Umm no…
Build: Athletic
Occupation:  Explorer… and Soren’s bodyguard, unofficially.
Likes: Yui likes material objects and getting what she wants.
Dislikes: Travelling at sea. She suffers from motion sickness.
Markings: None.

Personality: She has a very spunky and somewhat tomboyish personality and tends to be a little short-tempered. She is not the least bit submissive. She will listen to Soren’s instructions if he asks very asks nicely.

Weapons of Choice: Yui’s training has taught her how to wield a wide variety of weapons with extreme efficiency, even objects not originally meant for combat.

Background: Not much is known other than she forcefully tagged along with Soren upon her ‘incidental’ encounter with him, having hopes of using the rich scholar to further her own goals. She is sly, habitually self-centered and her behavioural disposition often leads to brash decision-making and tumultuous relationships. (The rest is up to you should you choose this role.)

Yui has been living with Soren for around two years now but has yet to make her move. During this time she has elected herself as Soren’s bodyguard, ‘unofficially’ however.

{Okay.. that’s my character profile. If I can get people to play Soren’s Step mother and his stepmother’s bodyguard, that would be great. If you read through Soren’s profile, you’ll get a small backdrop on the characters. The rest is up to you.}

[AthenaNude]

Lady Sukkana Bint-Badra
("daughter of Princess Badra")



Appearance: (see image above).  Long light auburn hair, tan skin (not sun-bronzed but not pale), athletic build, dark brown eyes, discernable accent (Arabian-type), and no tattoos.  Her clothing is sparse, but she tends to wear colorful pastels, particularly capes, over a very skimpy bellydancer-type outfit.

Background:  Sukkana hails from a distant land of vast deserts, dotted by lush green oasis' and rugged rocky terrain to the far South.  Since her childhood, Sukkana has been an adventurous soul, and in her teen years she was quite a rebellious hellion, a trait she still possesses to this day.  Eschewing all of the arranged marriages (to rich handsome men other women in her city would swoon over) her rich parents had planned for her, Sukkana enjoyed nothing more than slipping out of the palace each night and partying until dawn.  Her skill as a bellydancer is legendary, as is her singing voice, storytelling prowess, and talent for acrobatics.  Amazingly, she embarked on a career as a thief for several years, just for the fun of it, and the challenge of seeing how long she could keep it up before being discovered. 

Alas, eventually her 'extracurricular' activites were eventually uncovered (by one of the suitors she had snubbed) and her parents had a potential scandal on their hands.  As a result, Sukkana was sent away to another kingdom as an ambassador for her country, and with all rights and priveleges.  This was no disgrace to Sukkana, however, as she had yearned to travel to other lands and see what things were like outside her own country. 

Old habits die hard, however, and Sukkana still goes out and parties in disguise, dancing nearly naked in one tavern after another, performing her risque acrobatics for onlookers, and telling erotic stories to rapt audiences who have never heard any of her stories (all of which were old news back in her home country).  Sukkana also enjoys performing in ribald plays and finds the theater quite a pleasant diversion from her duties as an ambassador.

Some suspect Sukkana possesses other skills as well which she keeps secret.  Does she really possess a Djinni bottle?  Is she a sorceress?  An assassin?  Is she responsible for some of the burglaries in town?  And just how did she get so good with a sword?  Is this entire story about her past a lie, just another of her many wild tales?  The rumors abound, and if they trouble Sukkana she does not show it.

[Carlissa]

Name: Dende
Apparent Age: 17
Actual Age: 170
Race: Elf
Anima:
Dende is a wielder of Nature Anima, a form of Anima that focuses on the powers of Earth and the body. There are many branches and sub-branches to Nature Anime, and Dende specializes in plant animation and body control.
Dende is most experienced in plant animation, and she studies in the branch of plant animation, or Anima dealing with plants, and in the sub-branch of growing and controlling plants. Dende can summon combat plants, such as Man Eaters and Poison Roses, and use them against her enemy. She knows a plethora of summoning plant spells, and they are quite useful for both attack and defense. The only requirement for plant growth is a soil for it to grow in and a large outpour of Anima as a life source.
Dende also studies the branch of body control, and in the sub-branches of internal flow control (also known as cell control III) and repair system control. Internal flow control deals with the flow of fluids in the body, like blood, urine, and even foreign invaders like viruses and sperm. It also deals with production and reproduction of certain cells (cell reproduction is a branch of its own, but it is also separated throughout the other cell sub branches). Dende can control where cells go, how fast they move and their reproduction rate. This branch is very useful for fighting diseases and for medical treatment. Dende can also use this power in sexual interactions, where she can cause herself to release multiple mature egg cells at a time, can make a man have an artificial erection by controlling the flow of blood into it, and even control a man’s sperm production rate. She can also use this power to speed up the pace of reproduction, where she can fasten the pace of the sperm traveling through her, and also quicken the rate at which the fertilized egg becomes an embryo, allowing her to become pregnant in a matter of minutes.
The second sub-branch that Dende has learned is the repair system control. The repair system control allows Dende to heal herself or others through the control of the immune and repair system of the body. If someone has been poisoned or has fallen ill to a disease, Dende can use her power to cure them. Dende can also heal cuts, broken bones, and even limbs (this requires a lot of time to execute, and is very hard to pull off. A lot of life force is used in this process, and Dende can only use it once a day. At Dende’s current level, she can only heal lost hands or feet, not entire limbs).
Dende can only use her powers in body control if she has contact with the patient, and she can only focus on one area of the body at a time.
Title: Mage
Appearance:
Personality:
History:
Dende’s origins originate thousands of years ago, when Anima first started to come in existence. Elves, at the time, only lived in forests with wild life and plants, and already knew much about the Earth and its surroundings. With the introduction of Anima, they used their knowledge of the Earth and its living creatures to develop magical powers that helped them understand the world around them even further, and to finally take control of their surroundings. Of course, the elves thought that without nature, they would not survive, so they only used their powers to help others.
Eventually, as the knowledge of Anima grew, so did the tree of spells discovered. A group of elf philosophers, all female, discovered the first combat magic of the elf race. These powers were outlawed when proposed to the government at the time, since it would only lead to destruction. The philosophers did not take this very well, and thus started a “race” of their own. The Guargans.
The Guargans were a lot like the Amazons, a group of female only elves that use combat magic to survive. But of course, they used their powers for good, since they WERE made up of a peaceful race. The group only consisted of ten to fifteen elves at a time, since only the most talented were chosen to join. None of the members were allowed to have children, and only infants that had a large potential power were able to join. And they were usually taken away from their families once found.
One of the mages in the Guargans was Dende’s mother, a beautiful young elf that originated from a royal bloodline. She had great power and control over Anima, but she was passionate and emotional, something that concerned her Guargan brethren greatly. She was also young and naive, and her emotional personality sometimes got in the way of her duties.
She was also a little of a rebel, not agreeing with the Guargan’s rules. She had fallen in love with a handsome elf male, who was also powerful in the ways of the Anima. She fell pregnant, but it was only during her second trimester that the Guargans found out of her treachery. She was banished from the group, and since her lover was a thing of the past, had nowhere to go.
Eventually, Dende was born, and her mother decided to raise her just as the Guargans raised their young, only in a more motherly way. Dende had very good genes, and was a natural talent since birth. She had great powers resting in her, and her mother wanted to exploit them to their fullest, so Dende could be the best there was.
Dende spend most of her time reading ancient conscripts and researching plant and humanoid systems, and developed the potential to learn plant and body animation. Dende was nature loving, and she has learned to grow living plants to fight by her side and control the bodies’ physics, and became both a healer and a fighter.
Eventually, Dende had to break off from her mother to explore the world, and gather wisdom to further increase her knowledge of the world and eventually, master her powers. She has become very fascinated in largely populated places, like kingdoms, instead of her origins back in the forests. Dende has traveled from kingdom to kingdom, making a living for herself by healing the sick and helping those in need, and has become quite wealthy. But she has become quite lonely, and has decided that she wants an apprentice. It has come to her mind that she would have a child of her own, and raises him to be even more successful than her. So she now drives to find a man, to impregnate her and if she is lucky, spend the rest of her life with.

[Kunoichi]

Sorry, but I'm afraid I'm going to have to drop out. ^^;

[AthenaNude]

I, for one, am sorry to hear that.   :-(  Please come back if you change your mind.   ;)

[Hayley]

Room for one more?  I read this before approval and it looks really good fun.  Was thinking of going down a priestess route - any preferences on religion if thats feasible?

[Silk]

Any religion is fine as long as it suits the nature of the RP :) And sorry to see ya go kunoichi.

[Soren]

Rune,

It should be fine here. If there are too many boards it might create confusion.

[Rune]

Name: Brandon Whiteshield
Apparent Age: 28
Actual Age: 31
Race: Human (Levantine)
Anima: None
Title: Knight (Landed)
Appearance:



Height: 6' 1"
Weight: 185 lbs
Hair: Dark Brown
Eye Color: Greyish Blue
Distinguishing Feature: Jagged scar running down the inside of his left forearm.

Reputation: Chivalrous and Honourable.

Skills: Command, Court Graces, Leadership, Horsemandship, Riding, Diplomacy, Tactics, Martial Training

Background:

Sir Brandon Whiteshield is  the sole heir of the Whiteshield family. He was trained from an early age to take over the responsibilites of his family. As a young man, he earned a commission in the kingdom's army. After a few years abroad, in service to the Queen, he returned a little older and a little wiser. Upon returning home, he learned of the death of his father. He settled into his family estate to assume the role of his lands protector and lord.

His adherence to his principles has earned him much respect in the court. It has also earned him several enemies. There are those that covet his lands, his position and his popularity. In particular, the leader of the Slave Guild has issues with him. They would like nothing more than to find someway to discredit or control the young lord.

[Ryujin]

I think I'm going to withhold my profile until we get some people in on this. Probably either marry into the family like suggested or be a bodyguard for someone.

[Silk]

If you want Ryujin, you could be my (The empress's) Bodyguard which will also give you a strong authority as you would also effectively be one of the highest ranking military leaders. Let alone having a guy like that protecting the empress will put alot of people off attempting anything from sheer intimidation.



Name: Elypsia Levantine
Apparent Age: 22
Actual Age: 21
Race: Human
Anima: Shadow
Title: Empress (Also known as "Dark Empress of Ravens"
Appearance:
Personality: Once a cheerful young Princess, Eclpscia has become bitter and cold due to her responsibility's and solitude. Although her cheerful nature still shows from time to time
History: For the first 15 years of her life Eclypsia lived the life of most fantasy Princess's she loved her father the reigning Emperor dearly, which may go a long way to explain her descent into darkness. At the age of 15 she bore whiteness to the assassination of her father, he would have killed her too and ended the royal line if a dormant magic did not surface from her grief.

Since then she has been the "chosen" to be in line to be the next empress at her 21st birthday. Never given time to mourn the loss of her father she was thrown in at the deep end as her life became enveloped in training and responsibility to the kingdom. The regent that has been in charge for this time has long been known to Eclypsia as the leader behind the plot of her fathers death and the attempt on her own. However until she is corronated she cannot move against him. However time and time again he has sent new assassins against her. But thanks to her shadow magic she has survived to this day.

[Rune]

Name: Tornag
Apparent Age: 24
Actual Age: 62
Race: Ogre
Anima: None
Title: Slaver
Appearance:



Height: 7' 8"
Weight: 365 lbs
Hair: Black
Eye Color: Black
Distinguishing Feature: Hey, he’s an ogre!

Reputation: Tough, cruel and merciless. He is smarter than he looks.

Skills: Fighting, Intimidation, Feats of Strength

Background:

No one has ever found out where Torag’s homeland is located, but then again, few people have taken the time to actually talk to him. He appeared to be a large ogre of a man whose very nature is violence.

He was discovered by the Kingdom’s army when he attacked their troops in a mindless rage. He decimated the better part of a battalion before he was rendered unconscious. The ogre awoke to find himself in chain, forced to fight for the entertainment of the nobles.

He was being transported to the city to participate in the gladiatorial games when their ship was attacked by pirates. Seeing his chance for freedom, he tore loose his chains and fought alongside the pirates. The pirates were also slavers, but instead of enslaving Torag, they offered a share in their crew. He accepted. He spent several years at sea as a raider and a slaver.

He eventually found himself at the slavers guild in the city. He was wary at first, not sure how the people of the city would react to an ogre in their midst. However he was persuaded to stay and now is employed by the slavers guild as one of the keepers at the slave kennels.

Secret:

Torag is not really as vicious and merciless as he appears. His home and family was burned by the Kingdom’s army, triggering his desire for revenge. Time has taken the edge of the pain of his lose, but he still bears a grudge against the people that stole his life from him. It is possible that he may become protective and even caring to someone who can see past the savage brute he appears to be.

[AthenaNude]

Lady Sukkana will definitely be spending a lot of time with Dende (nice picture and quite an interesting profile, especially the bio-magic).  Perhaps Dende will be the first to discover one of Sukkana's many secrets, and it's quite a big one.  ;) 

[Soren]

Nobles, Servants, Royal Guards/Bodyguards, Royal Harem: We could use people to play these roles. In my character's profile, there are also roles to choose from should anyone be interested.

Anyhow. The RP will start sometime in the next few days.

[Hayley]

Well, as Harem Girl is a role that's wanted I'll snatch one of them up:



Name: Aisha
Apparent (and actual) age: 23
Status: Slave in Royal Harem

Aisha originally hails from the same distant kingdom as Lady Sukkana though she hasn't seen her homeland since aged seven when along with several others she was captured by Slavers.  They recognised that her exotic looks could fetch a higher price in the Empire and she was sold to a minor noble with a sizeable 'collection' of dancers.  There she was trained in many different forms of dance and even more ways of pleasing her owner. 

Trading on her exotic looks, Aisha became a favourite of Lord Hinsen and developed a few unique dances.  One particular favourite involved the curved blades her countrymen used to make war - Lord Hinsen was no fool though and the blade is a wooden replica.  This became a very popular performance, coupled with the after show entertainment, and Lord Hinsen delighted in showing her off to his peers.

Eventually, Lord Hinsen was summoned to court and of course took his favourite dancer along with him.  The emperor was impressed and 'offered' to buy her.  Lord Hinsen, as stated, was no fool and knew what was wanted. He gave her as a gift to the Emperor who had the bad taste to die shortly after.  Aisha has spent the last six years in the Royal Harem.

[Ghostly]

Just a few questions, if you don't mind it;
Do you have any sort of 'rules' to go with the Anima system? I have been reading over the thread and I'm a little confused. For example in the 'rules' in the harry potter universe for a human to use magic he/she must A) have a wand B) know the correct spell they want to use C)have a reasonable amount of training/practice on how to use it, etc...

Do you have/need any slaves? (I do both males and females) The only one I saw so far is Hayley's character.

[Soren]

Ghostly,

I don't mind at all :-)

There were rules on magic, but people found them too restricting.  I only have very basic rules for magic now. Just do what you like within reason and have fun with it.

If you want a wand to be the focus of your spells, you could do that. It's up to you.

And yes, we could use some slaves. Who would you want your master to be? Or do you want to go through the auction process?

[Ghostly]

I was hoping for some kind of structure to it.

[Krayz]

This looks really interesting. If it's not too late, I'd be really interested in joining, though I'm still working on a character idea.

[Silk]

Your more than welcome to join, it is still going to remain open even when the RP has started :)

There is some structure to anima in that you will grow exhausted if you do it too much, as well. But alot of it is limited by player discrestion because I wanted to try and keep as much freedom as possible.

The RP will be up later on today, not that I'm expecting to be in full swing until after christmas.

[AthenaNude]

Hayley, would you like for our characters to have known each other back in the desert nation?  I like the notion that Aisha sometimes performed with Sukkana (who would have used an alias) as dancers/acrobats in some of the bazaars, palaces, and temples in some neighboring Emirate or Caliphate domains (whichever one Aisha went to).  Perhaps Aisha may have thought Sukkana (whom she knew as "Jasmin") was a slave girl in another harem (Aisha would have had no clue that she was partying and carousing with the royal daughter of Princess Badra, herself).  If you do want to establish that our characters have some history together then you would likely also know a few of her many secrets, including one important one (which I will tell you privately). 

If that doesn't work, then ignore all of what I just said.   XD  (this message will self destruct in 10...9...8...7...)

I will also inform our game master (Silk) of all of Sukkana's secrets before we begin, of course.

[Soren]

Athena, it seems fairly obvious what your character's most important secret is. Even if it is revealed out of character (the case for my character) it shouldn't be used to advantage when we are in character anyhow. Still, I'm curious now. I guess we'll have to find out during the role play.

And seeing as how Soren is an ambassador for the Levantine Kingdom, Sukkana and Soren will likely be seeing each other often for diplomatic negotiations.

[Carlissa]

Lady Sukkana will definitely be spending a lot of time with Dende (nice picture and quite an interesting profile, especially the bio-magic).  Perhaps Dende will be the first to discover one of Sukkana's many secrets, and it's quite a big one.  ;)

*Giggles* Just remember that Dende is straight, Athena!  ;)

[AthenaNude]

Athena, it seems fairly obvious what your character's most important secret is.

Oh?  You already got that she is actually an ancient red dragon transformed into human form by a powerful undead vizier as a punishment for not attacking the Levantine kingdom 200 years ago as he requested?  You got that in one?  I'm impressed!   XD 

Even if it is revealed out of character (the case for my character) it shouldn't be used to advantage when we are in character anyhow.

Because I know what a temptation it may be to use OOC info to color certain actions and decisions (either knowingly or subconsciously)  I would rather let people follow their own behavior normally and do what they would typically do.  Essentially, unless there's some good way they'd know, they aren't going to know, and this applies to player as well as character. 

Still, I'm curious now. I guess we'll have to find out during the role play.

As it should be.  Hence, the fun of roleplay and exploration.  If everything is just instantly 'known' then what's the fun in that?  Yes, my character is futa, no big surprise there for the players, though it would possibly be a big one for the other characters (unless futas are common).  I am rather intrigued by them but this is the first character I've played here that is one (I made a futa character for another rp but it never actually began). 

And seeing as how Soren is an ambassador for the Levantine Kingdom, Sukkana and Soren will likely be seeing each other often for diplomatic negotiations.

That's very true.   ;D  However sexual liasons are still anyone's guess.   ;)  Not saying it's not in the cards, but I will be completely honest and say I am much more fascinated by female and futa partners, typically, than male ones (strictly in fantasy settings, that is).

[Ryujin]

Name: Gaist Greystone (translated)
Apparent Age:25 (not that most humanoids can tell)
Actual Age: 75
Race:Drachen
Title: Bodyguard
Appearance: Gaist stands an intimidating 7 feet tall and weighing in at 700lbs. His hide is a dark grayish blue, like storm clouds. He bears a well built frame and mostly resembles a human save for the following. Short, thick, black claws make up the ends of his heels and the three toes on each of his feet. His fingernails, also black, have sharp protruding tips at the center of each, and do not grow unless the nail is damaged or removed. On his mid back are two wings that barely go past his arms and shoulders, but are usually folded. His black slitted pupils on yellow eyes overlook the blunt snout on his face, with two large nostrils at the end. He wears the traditional robes and hakama of his people. Over them he wears a Cuirass, tassets, and shoulder guards, all from his homeland, when he is in public. He has a full set of armor for occasions when he expects heavy fighting. At his waist rest a katana and a wakizashi.
Personality: If one were to stand before the empress with a hostile attitude or ill intent, a quick look at Gaist would make them reconsider. A man of few words who is always serious, he believes that actions speak louder. In public he is gruff, some would even say crude. Those who know him more intimately will find that he can be soft spoken and mild mannered, always willing to lend an ear or advice. No matter where he is, he is intensely loyal to his lord, ready to give his life in a heartbeat.
History: Hailing from a nation to the far east called Hai-Lan, Gaist was the son of a prestigious samurai. He was trained rigorously for several years before being given a command of his own. A few years and promotions later was when his career went from an upward spiral to a downward one. During a sortie against another noble house, he used strategies looked down upon in his culture, deceptions, feints, surprise attacks, attacking in the dead of night, surrounding the opposing armies so they could not escape. His steadfast refusal to acknowledge his dishonorable actions lead to his dismissal from military service and used him as a political gesture of goodwill. Rather than send one of their "honorable" samurai, he was offered up instead. Now disgraced and shunned by his own people, he has embraced his new role and devotes himself with even more vigor than he did before his dishonor.

[AthenaNude]

*Giggles* Just remember that Dende is straight, Athena!  ;)

How does she feel about futas?   Technically, Sukkana's 'equipment' in question should fit the basic criteria.   >:)

Even if not, though, it should make for some interesting conflict and a good 'love triangle' type of thing.   :-)

[Soren]

Oh?  You already got that she is actually an ancient red dragon transformed into human form by a powerful undead vizier as a punishment for not attacking the Levantine kingdom 200 years ago as he requested?  You got that in one?  I'm impressed!   XD

I knew that... :P  I was asking for it.

Because I know what a temptation it may be to use OOC info to color certain actions and decisions (either knowingly or subconsciously)  I would rather let people follow their own behavior normally and do what they would typically do.  Essentially, unless there's some good way they'd know, they aren't going to know, and this applies to player as well as character.

I agree. You're right.

As it should be.  Hence, the fun of roleplay and exploration.  If everything is just instantly 'known' then what's the fun in that?  Yes, my character is futa, no big surprise there for the players, though it would possibly be a big one for the other characters (unless futas are common).  I am rather intrigued by them but this is the first character I've played here that is one (I made a futa character for another rp but it never actually began).

Well, this role play will certainly begin and I do look forward to role playing with you.

That's very true.   ;D  However sexual liasons are still anyone's guess.   ;)  Not saying it's not in the cards, but I will be completely honest and say I am much more fascinated by female and futa partners, typically, than male ones (strictly in fantasy settings, that is).

We'll have to set a premise for the Diplomatic negotiations... This was one of my concerns though not anymore. Basically, the Levantine Kingdom is all about expansionism and it wants to absorb your character's kingdom in a non-confrontational way if it can.

[Ryujin]

Basically, the Levantine Kingdom is all about expansionism and it wants to absorb your character's kingdom in a non-confrontational way if it can.

Oh Really? Then Gaist will have a chance to pay back all those fools who shunned him.

[Blackbird]

We'll have to set a premise for the Diplomatic negotiations... This was one of my concerns though not anymore. Basically, the Levantine Kingdom is all about expansionism and it wants to absorb your character's kingdom in a non-confrontational way if it can.

Perhaps I can help with that...

But I'm getting ahead of myself. Hi all! I've been looking into this RP as well. May I please join in?

Here were my thoughts: My character could be the Grand Commander of the Levantine Imperial Army. There could be varying degrees of... er... disagreement, let's say, between the two kingdoms. As the official head of the armed forces and right hand of the Empress, I could provide military insight to the negotiations. Perhaps there is even open fighting going on, small-scale skirmishes and whatnot for that "possible combat" mentioned earlier. Oh, and so that I am not a wizened old geezer, I could be the son of the former Grand Commander, recently taking over the position. As far as character relations, I would be right there with the diplomats and ambassadors, taking orders directly from the Empress herself. I would probably run into the Empress's personal body guard from time to time as well.

So what do you guys think? May I join?

[Soren]

Blackbird,

Yes. Of course you can join. I like your idea too.

[Blackbird]

Name: Vincent Navarre  A.K.A the "White Raven"

Title: Grand Commander of the Imperial Army (Grand Commander for short)

Appearance:

(Full armor)


(Without armor)

Race: Human

Actual Age: 28

History:
Raised on the battlefield by his father, the previous Grand Commander, for as long as he could remember, Vincent is an elite soldier, cunning tactician, and fearless leader. He is of noble birth, having been born into a family long renowned for military service. He has been trained all his life to lead armies like his father before him and to live a life of honorable service to his kingdom.

Despite being of the high-ranking Navarre family, he never spent much time at the family estate. Most of his youth was spent on various campaigns with the army, and he had a private tutor to see to his education and schooling. During his adventures as a young knight, Vincent lost his right eye to a stray arrow during a battle with desert raiders. He also sports a wide collection of other scars as a result of his hard lifestyle. But it has made him one of the kingdom’s most formidable warriors - capable of amazing dexterity even in armor, and able to wield larger-than-normal weapons. Perhaps there is a bit of magic in him that aids his battlefield prowess? It has been rumored, but never confirmed.

Eventually, he rose to fill the prestigious position of Grand Commander, gaining responsibility over all the empire’s military forces. He takes his orders only from whomever rules the empire, and he in turn distributes those orders among the generals and commanders of the army however he sees fit.

Personality:
Vincent is both a gentleman and a soldier. He is tough and relentless in combat, yet can be graceful and charming. He is a charismatic leader to his men and a loyal patriot. Although, there are times when he can come across as cold or harsh - an inevitable side-effect of his responsibilities as leader of the Levantine armed forces. But he is also intelligent and respectful to others, having a generally heroic personality.

[Hayley]

Athena - yeah sounds good to me. Might help the kind of disparate group we've got get together.

[Silk]

IG Thread is up here
https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=56312.msg2582279#msg2582279

And OOC
https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=56313.0