The Next Emperor (open, spots for 3 heroes and 1 princess)

[Untamed Skies]

The RP has just started we've had one no show and another drop out so there are two slots open to heroes. I'm also having another slot open for a princess if anyone is interested in this idea.

The time has come for the Emperor to step down

Emperor Edward Hellatius has decided that finally time has defeated him, his blade has turned dull and so has his mind. He's no longer fit to rule his Empire and his weakness would make it vulnerable. By law of the Hallation Empire without a male heir he must select a man from outside of the family to marry a daughter and assume a new blood line. Abiding by these sacred laws Emperor Hellatius has decided to bring in the most famous of warriors, generals, nobles, dukes, counts, and heroes of the land to try and prove their worth as Emperor. At the center of which will be a grand tournament for the right to select one of his daughters to be the new Empress.

However there is more to this game then just the tournament, for he who seeks the crown must be more then a simple martial master he must be cunning, he must be empathetic towards his people, because the Emperor doubts his wits to be Emperor one has to be approved by four of the five authorities. The Emperor, A Princess, The High Bishop, The Speaker  of the Senate or the Representative of the Common folk. Only when he has proved his worth above and beyond the average man will he be allowed to assume this title. And the only way one can earn such a title is proving his cunning, guile, strength, and conviction before anyone else has a chance. For each authority values something different.

At the heart of everything would stand the tournament. Here the princesses might find their interest in a hero, and a hero might find interest in her. Here those who were weak might find foul ways to overcome those who were strong. Here fools would be cast out, and the unworthy destroyed. It would be no fluke that someone was named High King, this truly was the intent of Edward Hallatius.



The Concept

This is more then just a man trying to marry a woman and become emperor because there is no set princess. The princess must also prove valuable and worth while to the hero trying to become Emperor. If she is judged poorly she might be passed by the hero finds something he values in one of her sisters. It also allows for foul play by the sisters as they try to eliminate heroes that either impedes their own goals. By all rights you may not be able to trust anyone almost everyone is after something only 2 can have.

I'm hoping for more then a few players for this RP. The Emperor never had a son but it wasn't for lack of trying, there can be plenty of princess's if someone is interested int hose roles. And there can be plenty of heroes on the other side of things as well. The goal isn't to have only 2 heroes rise and battle each other for 1 princess, but to have a cluster of heroes and princesses trying to gain power of the throne. Have backstabbing, love triangles, all the good drama that comes when a collection of people want the same thing.

The Tournament

Initially the users probably won't face each other. Because it is a empire there are many different heroes and while the pallet was narrowed down, there are still 128 men fighting for the right to marry a princess. So for the first couple of rounds we will be fighting NPC's until the heroes establish themselves and then we'll start worrying about facing each other.

The tournament is set with dulled and blunted weapons. The intent is not to kill the heroes who may have more use to the Empire before the end. Or may find approval from 4 of the 5 authorities before the tournament winner can. However accidents and schemes do happen, anyone who is set to enter the tournament should be wary. The easiest way to eliminate a threat is to kill it.

No matter what the winner of the tournament gets to marry a princess of his choosing, if he is not chosen as Emperor then he will precede under the Emperor as High King with his new found wife. This could mean if your character is in love with Princess A, and Hero B wins the tournament and selects Princess A, you may have to settle princess B instead or find a way to eliminate Hero B.

A noble may have a representative fight for him in his place if he so chooses to do so. However a warning, should your Representative be smarter then you and gain the proper approval you may find him stealing your prize out form under you. In this regard many nobles who are doing such, are picking uneducated people to fight for them in hopes they won't become wiser to the overall scheme of things.

No one is above the law, if you are caught murdering innocent people, or other competitors you will be arrested and any chance at the crown will be lost.

It is also possible if a princess so chooses she may enter the tournament as well, her prize being she may pick one of her suitors she herself deems most worthy to rule. Should he fail to gain approval from the authorities then she would reign as High Queen alongside her high king, eligible to rule should the Emperordoe before a legitimate heir be born.
NPC's

Assumed NPC's
Assumed NPC's would consist on the non important NPC's that may or may not interact with the heroes. These are controlled in any which way and allowed to be killed and used as needed. Maybe a jaded tournament loser tries to kill a hero that defeated him, or kidnap a princess as ransom only to be easily overcome. They aren't important so do with them and create them as you will.


User NPC's
These NPC's should be close to your hero, be it a bodyguard, friend, family member, etc. Someone who only you want to control. Every user may have to of their own NPC's to assist their hero in whatever


Magic
Magic is not powerful, the strongest flame that can be conjured is a little less powerful then a torch. They are cheap parlor tricks, useful only in certain situations, and even in those situations they only give a slight edge. It is so weak and so little used that a large share of the world do not believe in it. And those that do see it only as a gift from the gods, or as vile and demonic. There is nothing strong enough to control one's mind, there is nothing strong enough to make someone ill. Some can throw a candle fire at you and it might burn like being burnt by a cigarette but that's the extent of it.

The Church grants magic to those most devoted to it's cause. Those who have spent many years and have given much time to the pursuit of the betterment towards their gods. It is supposed to be a sign of the faithful. This magic comes in the form of runes. The church grants and teaches it's greatest members how to use magic in the form of runes. These runes are found in certain scriptures and books, these runes must be precisely crafted, and one has to be able to imagine the power they invoke as they craft the rune. As such the only true way to learn magic is through the scriptures.

Scriptures do not all reside in the church there are many, it's very easy to believe that in a massive castle library there are a few books on runic magic either handed down by the church or taken by overzealous Emperor's and princes. However for a low class citizen that isn't religious and doesn't have a library near him, the odds of him coming across such information is much lower. If you want to add a rune or two to your character you must explain how you came into the knowledge.

Those not granted magic through their devotion are in turn claimed to be working for dark forces. Possessed by demons and on a mission to taint the very ground they walk upon. Still if a princess or the Emperor was discovered to have use of magic without the gift of any of the churches the church wouldn't be able to do much. A full scale war would crush them, the strength of even half a country's faithful against the entire might of the Empire would spell doom. They would need the support of multiple lords and start a civil war in order to bring the "evil to justice". They could send assassin's but the trouble is if they assassin's fail and the church is discovered they would be crushed. So by all rights magic really should have no effect over anything until towards the end. And even then it could only really be used as "justification," to bring the Empire into civil war if enough of the lords rallied behind the one crying foul.

Links
OOC
recruitment thread
Bazaar Thread
Hero's Quadrant
Palace Thread
The Proving Grounds Thread
Character Thread

[Untamed Skies]

Hero Profile Skeletons

User:
Character:
Role: (Hero or princess)
Age: (Heroes must be age 20-35)
Height: (how tall)
Weight: (how much do you weigh)
Weapon(s): (martial skills)
Personality: (what is your character weight)
Background: (What has made your character a hero and worthy of entering this tournament)
Physical Description: (skin color, hair style, build etc.)
Appearance: (A picture of something close to your character)


NPC Profiles
User:
Character:
Role: (User or High)
Age: (Heroes must be age 20-35)
Connection to Hero: (why is he/she important to the hero)
Physical Description: (skin color, hair style, build etc.)
Appearance: (A picture of something close to your character)

[Untamed Skies]

Cast

High Npc's:
        Emperor Hellatious:
                   High Bishop:
  Speaker of the Senate:
People's representative:

Princesses:

Heroes:


NPC's:

[Untamed Skies]

The Capital City of Latania

[Untamed Skies]

If anyone has any questions or ideas feel free to PM me. I am always open to anything that will make the RP more interesting and fun.

[mj2002]

This looks like a very interesting set up. What I am wondering is this; Since this is a competitive scenario, how do you plan on deciding player conflicts? It looks like characters are going to be dying eventually, so that seems rather important.

[Untamed Skies]

In the past my rules on murdering another character has required the permission of the other user. As far as player conflicts go it depends on the situation. Most conflicts come down to the opinions of the princess they are fighting over, or the rep they are trying to get approval of. So really it depends on the character.

If two characters decide to fight or fight to the death i think it'll be fairest just to resort to the fighting system and allow things to act accordingly. Though keep in mind murder is illegal, no one has immunity from the law.

Does that make sense? Or is there a more specific scenario you're thinking of?

[mj2002]

In the past my rules on murdering another character has required the permission of the other user. As far as player conflicts go it depends on the situation. Most conflicts come down to the opinions of the princess they are fighting over, or the rep they are trying to get approval of. So really it depends on the character.

If two characters decide to fight or fight to the death i think it'll be fairest just to resort to the fighting system and allow things to act accordingly. Though keep in mind murder is illegal, no one has immunity from the law.

Does that make sense? Or is there a more specific scenario you're thinking of?

This makes enough sense to me, thanks for the explanation. I'm thinking of submitting a character sheet for a princess soon, though I hope this scenario will also attract enough male characters to play the champions.

[TheHangedOne]

I'm interested in a champion. A low-born hero, popular with the common folk.

For pictures, do you mind well drawn pictures (not cartoons)? Or should I stick with pictures of real people?

[TheHangedOne]

User: TheHangedMan
Character: Henrik Raubriter
Role: Hero
Age: 24
Height: 5'11
Weight: 200 pounds
Weapon(s): Hammer, sword, dagger
Personality: Coldly logical, yet personable. Charismatic; honest.  He cares very deeply about the people, especially the peasants, but does not allow his emotions to get in the way of his decision making.
Background: Henrik used to be a blacksmith, who grew hale and hardy in his toils. However, one year--seven years ago-- their was a minor issue in the kingdom, where bandits had become increasingly active.  Dissatisfied with the slow pace in which the guards and military were taking their time to respond to the threat, Henrik put together several people, whom he trusted, and went out to do something about it himself.

Leading a handful of people in poor equipment, he actually succeeded in hunting down a small group of the bandits. Henrik and his men killed several, and took the leader of this group captive, and he was interrogated in the confines of Henrik's smithy.

After extracting the information about their camp from them, Henrik again called upon his friends-- a few hunters with bows, a militia trained spearman, some lumberjacks with axes-- and they set off. They approached the camp with Henrik leading them, proclaiming themselves to be people who were too tired of toiling and gaining nothing. They saw how good the bandits were doing, and wanted in on the deal.

Henrik was persuasive enough to get their leader to talk with him. They tentatively agreed; since it was so dark, they were allowed to stay in the camp, and in the morning, they would be sent off on a test.

Morning did not arrive for the bandits. In the middle of the night, his group struck from within; guards were slain with arrows, and sleeping men butchered as they were roused, still groggy and unable to truly fight.

Henrik personally beat the leader of the bandits into submission using a large hammer that was typically used in his workshop. Come morning, they left with the leader, and turned him into the proper authorities, while also mentioning where the camp was, so that what goods were still there could hopefully be returned to those who lost them.

While his recklessness was not appreciated by the authorities of the time--it was dangerous and the work should have been left to the professionals-- they were still thankful enough, and the commoners did not care whether or not they should have been dealing with the threat; they were just happy enough that the problem was done and over with.

After this, however, he returned to his simple life of forging weapons, armor, and cutlery and the occasional bauble. However, his reputation did see a large increase in his customers, as people from other cities and places wanted one of his "Bandit-killer" weapons.

With the money he was able to get, he was able to get a scholar to tutor  him about the finer points about the world at large; politics, academia, history, geography, mathematics; he hoped, in fact, one day, to step beyond his lot in life.

When the High Emperor announced the tournament, Henrik applied; their are still many who remember him, as a youth not even old enough to need to shave, being able to so boldly and ably handle the bandit threat. Tales, largely exaggerated at this point in time, are still told about his heroism and valor.
Physical Description:  Caucasian, blond hair, blue eyes. His body build is muscular, but not bulky; he is as strong as he is dexterous, and his muscles are wiry, rather than bulging.
Appearance:

[Untamed Skies]

Sorry had gone to bed for the night. It's whatever in way of pictures, If you have something that fits your character perfectly I say go for it.

Your character looks good. He's approved.

Ooh and I'll add it under tournament rules, it's also possible to have a representative fight for you. (or to play such a representative) the risk you take in it however is that should the underling go behind your back and get approval from everyone but a princess he can steal your prize out from under you.

[TheHangedOne]

Groovy. I have added a picture, and will be working on a personal npc shortly.

Grissom Bernett (User) NPC

User: TheHangedMan
Character: Grissom Bernett
Role: User
Age: 28
Connection to Hero: The militia-man who joined Henrik in his endeavor to stop the bandits. Now a Captain of the City Watch. Grissom is a no-nonsense man who cares deeply about maintaining the peace of the land, and punishing those that spoil it. He believes that Henrik will be a fair ruler, and is not opposed to using his power within the City Watch to ensure that nothing "unsavory" happens to his friend.
Physical Description: Caucasian, broad-shouldered, bears a few scars on his chest. Athletic build. Brown hair that's down to his shoulders, and brown eyes. (Note that his armor is going to be whatever the City Watch would wear, rather than what's in the picture).

[Untamed Skies]

Ok great! I will have my character and his npc's up when I get off work in a couple hours

[Untamed Skies]

User: Untamed_Skies
Character:  Cedric Valda
Role: Hero
Age:  30
Height: 5'11"
Weight: 160 lbs
Weapon(s): Longsword
Personality: More then anything he is driven. He knows what he desires and will not hesistate to taket he necessary actions to see that he achieves them. Still he isn't a cruel, nor is he cold. He is passionate in his affairs, and to those worthy of being considered allies he is plesant company. Happily sharring a feast, enjoying a heated discussion, or even a friendly spar.
Background: Cedric Valda wasn't born a noble. His family in fact wasn't extremely prestigous at all for the vast majority of his young life. He grew up in a country located in the southwestern region of the Empire. He was educated and studied diligently early on, and gained a position as a tutor to the king's daughter Elanor Latana. The two developed into fast friends and not long after that they became lovers. When they both came of age they married, and enjoyed a single child together.
This peace for Cedric however would not last long, only three years after his marriage a civil war took place in his home country. Two sects vying for power and envious of the postion of the Latana family suddenly struck at the castle while he was on a hunting trip with his brother in law. Before anyone knew what had happened the leader of the rebellion attacked the castle and in the ensuing chaos, he lost his mother in law, wife, and son, and the king was greviously injured. Cedric was so devasted he locked himself in his study for a week, his servants having to force him to drink water to keep him alive.
The man who exited the study was not the same that had entered heartbroken a week before. Cedric elected to act in place of his father in law taking on the role of a general as he marched the royal army to crush the two rebel factions. To the west lay the Lalori army which had vast support from the people. Charles Lalori was considered a man of deep virture, one who would tend to the common folk's needs and punish the corrupt lawmakers for taking their money. To the west was Nicholas Fleger, a man who was renown for his greed and wealth. It was due to this wealth that they got high backing from the high classes of people. Both had taken enough land and power away from the Latana family and had amassed larger armies.
Cedric displayed massive cunning as he lured both armies onto the battlefield, the two were supposed to work in unison to  wipe the remnants of the Imperial King from the land, and ensure freedom for the rest of the country. However Cedric planted moles in either group, the goal was to convince the other that they had betrayed one another by having the moles leave and move as if seeking a meeting with the other. As the both armies moved to attack he withdrew from the battlefield entirely but not before making a move to meet with Charlles Lalori. This action combined with false intelligence convinced Nicholas that Charles intended to betray him. Nicholas acted first turning his army to attack the Lalori. Which of course resulted in the Lalori attacking the Fleger. This allowed a opening for Cedric to call his forces back on to the playing field and in the chaos both forces were routed. It was less then a year after their crushing defeats that both the head of Charles Lalori and Nicholas Fleger were posted on their respective castles to discourage anyone from attempting a similar coup.

Due to his actions Cedric was offered the chance to become a Imperial Duke, one of which he accepted without hesitation. The land he was placed in was poor and lacking, ravaged with bandits and other scoundrels eager to make money off the weak. Cedric would cement his early legacy, as he marched to route the bandit army. Instead of simply destroying them however, he elected to draft them into his army, gave their lands to the pesants so that they could farm and grow food, and installed all bandits willing to work within the law to protect the new crops. Many nobles believed that his actions were questionable, rogues such as the bandits should be punished. However Cedric saw the ones capable of falling back into society as useful. The kind of soldiers who know more then simply following orders for honor, those that had been so hungry they turned to their wicked ways in the first place. These beasts of men would be the best trusted to ensure their food was never taken again. Anyone who was caught stealing any food would be dealt very severe and as far as most people were concerned unfair punishments. Despite this the abundance of food allowed heavy trade, which allowed technology to grow, which allowed everything that resided within his realm to advance and prosper. To many he had displayed cunning and guile fit for a leader, however there are just as many unwilling to look past his cruel punishments of the people and employment of former bandits. Many believe he is uncaring to the people and focused only on the job.
Just as quickly as he accepted his position of Duke, Cedric made for the home capital of the Hellation Empire when he discovered they were searching for someone capable for ruling. A position he believed only he was fit to rule.
Physical Description: Atheltically built, never slowing down even at the end of the wars, he looks as fit now as he did when he was when he first started his campains. His dark hair is cut short. With a light stuble he shaves on important events or when he decides it's gotten too long. Cold blue eyes stare back at you.
Appearance:

NPC
User: Untamed_Skies
Character:  Gregory Warsaw
Role: User
Age: 35
Connection to Hero:  He is one of the former bandit leaders that was spared after agreeing to serve Cedric. To prove it was simply food he was fighting for and not the ruin of the commonfolk he has dedicated the rest of his life to Cedric as a bodyguard. He aims to serve as an example that bandits are more then simply barbarians.
Physical Description:  A hulking towar of a man standing at 6'5" and weighing over 200lbs. Long dark hair that generally will hang over his eyepatch. He is very gruff, and almost nothing noble looking about him.
Appearance:

User: Untamed_skies
Character: Liam Hart
Role: User
Age: 25
Connection to Hero:  Liam Hart was recruited by Cedric during the first civil war that took place back in their home country. Cedric was impressed with his ability to sneak and employed him primarily for espionage. Liam is Cedric's eyes and ears and has been brought along both to guard from the shadows and get vital information.
Physical Description: He has fair skin and auburn hair. He keeps himself looking rugged to help make sure he doesn't appear important. Lean skin and brown eyes.
Appearance:

[Scribbles]

I can’t believe it; I was searching for a similar RP not too long ago. I’ve been dying for a little courtly intrigue and drama. I haven’t finished but I wanted to put it up to see if I was moving in the right direction.

User: Scribbles
Character: Avelyn Hellatius
Role: Princess
Age: 26
Height: 5’9”
Weight: 130lbs
Weapon(s): Despite her role as a princess, Avelyn is quite adept with a bow, a weapon she favours for her favourite sport; hunting. She normally likes to venture out on horseback, with an escort and dogs, to seek out the nearest prize and put an end to its life. Despite the blood-thirsty nature of the sport, Avelyn remains as proper as ever. She never unseats herself from the horse, unless the hunting party stops to picnic, and normally comes attired in the most impractical but exquisite dresses. She never carries her bow outside of a hunt.
Personality: Avelyn is a proud and ambitious woman, used to the feel of success and unafraid of getting her hands a little dirty to achieve it. If she has to lie, cheat, steal or even kill to attain her goal, she will not hesitate and she will do it all while hiding behind a pleasant smile. If the princess has learnt anything, it’s that a little decorum and a sweet smile can go a long way to concealing her actions. This makes her an exceptionally difficult person to rile up or catch off guard. Avelyn’s only real moments of weakness are when around exotic foods, gifts, or if she actually is caught in the act of something wicked. Otherwise, if a person has nothing to offer, then all they can expect is the cold shoulder.
Background: Avelyn’s behaviour within her family has always been one of indifference with her mood only ever lightening when out hunting or receiving exotic gifts. This was never for a lack of love but rather because she found her role in life to be so, painfully, predictable. If she pined for something, a clap of the hands would have it by her feet within moments. And should she engage in a game with someone, she’d always find herself on the winning side - no matter how hard she’d try to lose. This has left her feeling empty, directionless and without challenge in life which resulted in the constant disinterest she displayed to all those around her.

This is why she finds such pleasure in receiving gifts beyond the empire’s reach as it always presents the opportunity to experience something new. It’s also why she has such a love for hunting since she was first shown the sport as an early teen. Unlike the servants or people she was forced to entertain at times, she found the animals of the forest to be truer playing partners. There was no dull expectation of a falsified win in the game as an animal wouldn’t stab itself with her arrow, it would duck and dive and do anything else it can to hold onto the precious prize that was its life.

Now Avelyn finds herself regretting the indifference she treated her siblings with however as the prize of the throne is put up for grabs. She now has to match wits with people as privileged as herself while hopefully finding a suitable, if malleable, man to champion her cause. It also wouldn’t be easy to simply switch from years of indifference to her siblings to a tone of sweetness.
Physical Description: WiP
Appearance: WiP

[Untamed Skies]

Great! I don't see anything wrong with her so I think you're going in the right direction

[Scribbles]

Okay, finished!

User: Scribbles
Character: Avelyn Hellatius
Role: Princess
Age: 26
Height: 5’9”
Weight: 130lbs
Weapon(s): Despite her role as a princess, Avelyn is quite adept with a bow, a weapon she favours for her favourite sport; hunting. She normally likes to venture out on horseback, with an escort, her hawk (Apollo) and some dogs, to seek out the nearest prize and put an end to its life. Despite the blood-thirsty nature of the sport, Avelyn remains as proper as ever. She never unseats herself from the horse, unless the hunting party stops to picnic, and normally comes attired in the most impractical but exquisite dresses. She also never carries her bow outside of a hunt.
Personality: Avelyn is a proud and ambitious woman, accustomed to the feel of success and unafraid of getting her hands a little dirty to achieve it. If she has to lie, cheat, steal or even kill to attain her goal, she will not hesitate and will do so all while hiding behind a pleasant smile. If the princess has learnt anything, it’s that a little decorum and a sweet smile can go a long way to concealing her actions. This makes her an exceptionally difficult person to rile up or catch off guard. Avelyn’s only real moments of weakness are when around exotic foods, gifts, or if she actually is caught in the act of something wicked. Otherwise, if a person has nothing to offer, then all they can expect is the cold shoulder.
Background: Avelyn’s behaviour within her family has always been one of indifference with her mood only ever lightening when out hunting or receiving exotic gifts. This was never for a lack of love but rather because she found her role in life to be so, painfully, predictable. If she pined for something, a clap of the hands would have it by her feet within moments. And should she engage in a game with someone, she always found herself on the winning side - no matter how hard she might try to lose. This left her feeling empty, directionless and without challenge which resulted in the constant disinterest she displayed to all those around her.

This is why the princess found such pleasure in receiving gifts beyond the empire’s reach as it always presented the opportunity to experience something new, something which few others could claim to have seen or own. Her own bow was created by a Western civilization famed for its archers, its surface of yew carved with an intricate inscription to some false God of Swiftness and Death. Her Hawk (Apollo) as well is a type not seen within her father’s realm, caught and trained by a tribe of hunter-gatherers in the far South. Another quirk born of her eternal boredom is her love for the hunt, one she's had since she was first shown the sport as an early teenager. Unlike the servants or people she was forced to entertain at times, she found the animals of the forest to be truer playing partners than any other. There was no dull expectation of a falsified win in the game as an animal wouldn’t stab itself with her arrow, it would duck and dive and do anything else it could to hold onto the precious prize that was its life.

Now Avelyn finds herself regretting the indifference she treated her siblings and father with as the greatest prize of all is put up for the taking, the throne of the empire itself. She now has to match wits with people as privileged as herself while hopefully finding a suitable, if malleable, man to champion her cause. It also wouldn’t be easy to simply switch from years of indifference to a tone of pleasantness, an act any of her sisters would likely see through. Despite all this, the princess also found herself intrigued with the challenge the opportunity set. She couldn’t decide what was sweeter, the prize or the game she’d be forced to play to attain it.
Physical Description: Avelyn’s body is slender, showing only faint signs of fitness from her constant hunts. Her auburn hair is normally worn in a bob, cut from its once knee-reaching length into a more practical style suited for her hunts. Even her skin has been affected by the hunt, tanned slightly from its normally light complexion.
Appearance:

[TheHangedOne]

 :-) I like the character, too, Scribbles. Though I doubt Henrik would get along with her.

[Scribbles]

Thanks HangedMan!

I doubt it too, they're almost complete opposites. She's selfish and dishonest while he's compassionate and honourable.

[Untamed Skies]

I think it's fun to have a clash of characters. She looks like she could be dangerous if idealistic characters get powerful or to other unscrupulous figures that she decides are too big a threat.

[Pentagious666]

Nothing like a lovable rogue :P

User: Pentagious666
Character: Kirxu Layrinth
Role: Hero
Age: 23
Height: 6'
Weight: 170
Weapon(s): Variety is the spice of life.  Preference towards lighter one handed weapons and staves.  His personal weapon of choice is a metallic dust that he uses magic to transform into a potent weapon.
Personality: Kir is fun loving and open, he loves to sing, dance, play, fight, anything that keeps him going.   He is a magnetic and enthusiastic hero.
Background: Kirxu Layrinth was born to the noble Layrinth Concord.  They are a circle of mystics.  Keepers of ancient tomes and libraries of the runic arts.  Many of the Concord sew these mystical symbols into their clothing so that they can enact rituals and rites wherever there are.  Though all but the oldest Sages have only mastered two or three of these.  Thus raised among the dust and the cobwebs the young Layrinth Noble became carefree and wild.  He did not hold back, and it was found that he reacted best to magnetism and electricity both of which could be descriptive of his personality.  While he does live happily he does not shirk his duty to defend his home.  During the long bandit conflicts in the regions surrounding the Concord he fought to protect friend and family with guile and skill.  This earned him much prestige as he was always around when the need for him was most dire.  He was sent as the sole child of the concordant council head's son.  He was almost not sent as his level headed father saw the impatience and mischief that still lay in his child.
While he has flirted with many women and wooed many others he has not once taken one to bed.  His chastity is his one virtue he clings to as he waits to meet the woman that is supposed to spend her life with him.
Physical Description: Musclular and athletic in build Kir is often considered the epitome of grace and dexterity.  He usually is at least mostly shaven but does allow himself to get scruffy.  He prefers his hair messy, because it's going to get messy anyways.  He will put it into order if he absolutely must.  His skin is lightly tanned due to the almost equal parts spent inside and out.

Appearance:

Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide

[azzmeister89]

User: Azzmeister89
Character: Reynik "The dark fang"
Role: Hero
Age: 22
Height: 6ft
Weight: N/A
Weapon(s): Reynik carries his duel one handed short swords named "the dark fangs" for there color due to the strange black metal they are formed from
Personality: Reynik is for the most part an energetic young man, the chance of a battle excites him and he takes it all on as a test of his skills although he can get passionate and even serious when it comes to those he cares for and his ideals.
Background: Reynik was chosen to enter the tournament after news of his time on a battlefeild reached the homeland, in a short invasion of a southern enemy he alone took a fort of almost 100 enemy soldiers without aid, killing thirty of them in the process before he freed thousends of there own captured soldiers who helped him finish the job, he was also the slayer of a great black wolf that lived in the mountains near his childhood home.
Reynik is not a born noble but was gifted knighthood after that feat.
Physical Description: his hair is short dark and messy and his eyes like liquid chocolate, he carries no scars on his face and is often spoken of as a theif of young maidens hearts despite not having the courage to talk to them.
Appearance:

[Untamed Skies]

Looks good to me! Welcome!

[azzmeister89]

thanks, looking forwards to this one

[Pentagious666]

Aye it should be a grand ball of a time. however well met and I hope we all get to have some fun ;)

[Untamed Skies]

I just added to the tournament rules, Princesses may also join the tournament if they wish too. Maybe it'll help spark a bit of interest

[IrishWolf]

User: IrishWolf
Character: Erwin von Ritter, Lion of the North
Role: hero
Age: 34
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 200 odd pounds
Weapon(s): Lance, longsword and horseman's pick
Personality: Proud and charismatic, Erwin is leader of men in battle. Where his banner flies, warriors gather to follow him. It is his dedication to the Empire, which had carried him through the chaos of border raids, bandit hunts and pitched battle, as well as kept often very independent northern lords in line. 
Background: Erwin von Ritter, is the younger son of Duke Markus von Ritter and being not the Duke's heir, was send off as a young lad, to squire to a knight in the north. Upon winning his spurs and having no overlord, he became an Imperial Knight, one sworn to service of the Hallation Empire and remained in the north, with his friend Lothar, who had also just won his spurs. Together they hunted bandits, tracked barbarian raiders, quelled rebellions and the like, rising over the years, to command armies, with Erwin earning the title, Lion of the North and Lothar leading a company of two hundred knights and men at arms, as the Lion's personal bodyguard, the elite thrown in with the general himself, to turn the tide of battle.
Physical Description: Fit and strong, from years welding weapons and carrying armor, Erwin is the model of a general. Strong of jaw and commanding eyes, he has been know to rally troops with a look and a few words. He rarely smiles, mostly when charging into combat at hte head of his bodyguard. Rich brown hair covers his crown and is allowed to grow five inches or so but is shaved clean from his face. Calluses and scars cover his hands but the rest of his body is unmarked.
Appearance:


User: IrishWolf
Character: Hildebrand Junker
Role: User
Age: 17
Connection to Hero: Erwin 's squire
Physical Description: Hildebrand  is an athletic young man, strong from his training under Erwin to be a knight. His dark hair curls but is cut short, with bright blue eyes, filled with eagerness and wonder.
Appearance:



User: IrishWolf
Character: Lothar von Koertig
Role: User
Age: 32
Connection to Hero: Commands Erwin's bodyguard
Physical Description: Lothar is a large man, towering at six feet and four inches tall, with a heavily muscled body. His face is hard, set with lines and roughed from the weather. Stubble covers his cheeks, black as his neatly trimmed hair on his scalp.
Appearance:

[Untamed Skies]

I do not see anything wrong with him, welcome to the tournament

[TheHangedOne]

We need more women.  8-)

[AribethAmkiir]

User: AribethAmkiir
Character: Ellya Hellatius
Role: Princess
Age: 18
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 120 lbs
Weapon(s): Compassion, Charm, and Elegance
Personality: Ellya is a compassionate and passionate young woman.  She is eager to be heard, though wise enough to hold her tongue and know when she shouldn't speak.  She respects the traditions of the empire though she disagrees with them in her heart.  She believes she, or any of her sisters, could rule just as well as a man, if not better.  She values honesty, honor, loyalty, kindness, justice, and family.  Above all she wants what's best for the people of the empire, and fears that if one of her sisters become Empress she will be cast out or worse.  Ellya feels she would be committed to make amiable arrangements for her sisters, though knows that nothing will ever be the same once this tournament begins.  She enjoys pursuing knowledge, hawking, lawn games, horseback riding, dancing, and helping others.  She prefers art and culture over warfare.

Background: Ellya is the third daughter of the Emperor's second wife.  Like her sisters and half-sisters, she was given everything she ever wanted.  She was provided with the best education available in the empire and excelled in etiquette, diction, and articulation.  As a very young girl her compassion was limitless and unbridled.  She was known to smuggle injured animals into her bedchambers and attempt to nurse them back to health.  Eventually, she grew out of this habit and learned to guard her heart more carefully even as her tutors slowly directed her education toward the healing arts.

She is renown throughout the empire for her ability to heal and for founding charities for the ill and wounded soldiers.  She often visits the wounded soldiers who've been brought back from the front lines.

While Ellya enjoys hawking, she doesn't like to see her owl catch something.  She doesn't hunt though she will ride along.  She's been taught to use a bow, but has little desire to do so and less skill.  She can be found within the imperial library when she has ample free time.

Physical Description: Ellya is statuesque, slender with feminine curves.  She is of average height and build.  Her brown hair is often worn elegantly, though when not in public she prefers to wear it loose and long; it falls to her waist.  Her skin is unblemished and the color of cream. 
Appearance:

[Untamed Skies]

I don't see anything wrong with her, welcome to the tournament. Just need a few more sisters now.

[TheHangedOne]

Looks like Henrik has a princess to go for now.  :-)

[CarnivorousBunny]

Ah, since there is a need for princesses, maybe I'll just take that role instead, haha :) I'll start cooking up a profile soon

[Untamed Skies]

That's good, assuming MJ2002 is still interested and with Carni's princess that will bring our ratio up to 5 Men - 4 Women. That's actually not too bad.

[Pentagious666]

I am excited to see how things turn out.  Hopefully I can be ready to combat those that join us in the melee.

[mj2002]

That's good, assuming MJ2002 is still interested and with Carni's princess that will bring our ratio up to 5 Men - 4 Women. That's actually not too bad.

Ill get a cs up later today.

[CarnivorousBunny]

User: CarnivorousBunny
Character: Jacquelyn Hellatius
Role: Princess
Age: 16
Height: 5'3
Weight: 118lbs
Weapon(s): Remarkable intuition and character judgement.
Personality: Jacquelyn has been called impish, sometimes even the wicked princess, and personally she doesn't know what all the fuss is about.  Unladylike, blunt, and rude, many a noble dislike her, but Jacquelyn is also perfectly capable of acting appropriately when directly ordered to do so by her father or Ellya. One of her finer points is that she has always had a childish, innocent charm that wins over the servants and simpler folk. 
When it comes to her duties as Ellya's apprentice and healer, Jacquelyn is attentive and hardworking.  Much like her older sister, Jacquelyn feels that she must help the less fortunate, even if she is far less compassionate and kind. For all the trouble she causes, Jacquelyn is no fool.  Ever since she was a child, she has always had a very strong sense of intuition.  Sometimes people fear it is too good, as if she peers directly in to one's soul.  It is a truly frightening gift, and she uses it to her advantage.  Unlike her sister Ellya, Jacquelyn has no problem twisting the truth (her truly great lies are few and far between), and even the occasional arm, to get what she wants.

Background: Jacquelyn is the fourth daughter of the Emperor's second wife making her Ellya's younger sister.  Compared to her angelic healer of a sister, Jacquelyn has been likened to an imp.  When she was much younger she would always tear her gowns, and get a hoot out of scaring the royal dogs.

This particular princess has always hated boring ceremonies, and obligatory socialising.  How unfortunate that the princess that dislikes politics the most has become one of her father's most trusted advisors!  Due to her ability to detect snakes, she is constantly forced by her father attend social gatherings and to sit with him in meetings.
When she manages to slip out of her father's grasp, she can be found with the stable boys or cooks, helping them with their chores and listening to their stories.  On a few rare occasions she snuck out of the castle entirely to play with the local children in the less affluent parts of the kingdom.

Jacquelyn craves a simpler life and is fascinated by common folk and the hardships they endure.  When the rest of her family is out hunting and riding, she is in the armoury, listening to the soldiers swap stories.  Because of her constant visits there the soldiers have tried to teach her how to wield various weapons, but this princess has no gift for sport.  If anything, she is competent enough with the short sword not to accidentally kill bystanders, but she is no shining star. 

Being the youngest princess, and not to mention the most childish one, she feels that there should be no attention on her, when it is honestly quite the opposite.  Her father's eye is ever on the lookout for mischief, which she is usually the centre of.  Being young she has her immature moments, one is when she still claims that she will never marry and will be perfectly content as an old maid.
Physical Description: While she is not as tall and ladylike as the rest of her sisters Jacquelyn has her own kind of grace.  Despite her small stature, her curves are generous and smooth.  When it is not combed down and fixed, her thick jet black hair is full of soft curls that fall down to her elbow.  Her brown eyes are large and full of curiosity.  Her walk has a sensual sway, as if she were dancing to a song that only she can hear.
Appearance:

[azzmeister89]

damn now thats two pricesses who could match my character perfectly

[Vaulera]

I think I might be interested in making a princess. Just curious, how do you plan on executing the concept in terms of the contests or approvals?

[CarnivorousBunny]

damn now thats two pricesses who could match my character perfectly

That's if I am approved :P
But yes, after I posted my character I saw that yours would be a good fit for mine.  If your character can win her over, that is.

[mj2002]

User: mj2002

Character: Vera Hellatius
Role: Princess
Age: 19
Height: 5'5" / 165cm
Weight: 116 lbs / 53kg
Weapons: Composite Longbow, Cunning, Icy Demeanor

Personality: Vera is in many respects quite unlike her sisters. Her personality is cold and her aura is one of distance and lack of compassion. She is most at ease when she is alone, but even then she exudes an air of unpleasantness and contempt for her surroundings. Matters that concern her most are her own well being, power, material wealth and the ability to ride out into the wilderness whenever she pleases. Vera is an excellent wild game hunter and is an expert archer. For more sociable concerns, she cares not so much. She holds most of her sisters and even her father in disregard, but keeps the latter a secret. As for anyone else, there isn't any noticeable compassion. The only exception would be her horse.

She would have refused to partake in the tournament altogether, were it not for the fact that she found her sisters to be undeserving of the power that came with victory in the tournament. If anyone were to wield such power, it would be her and whatever suitor would appear to be most eligible. As such, the stakes of the contest were too important for her to disregard the event and had left Vera determined to partake in it. The rules of the tournament were clearly set, but that by no means meant Vera would abide to them at all times.

Background: Vera is the second daughter of the Emperor's second wife. Love for any of her sisters is either extremely well guarded or non existent. As a younger girl, it had been rumored that she had displayed cruelty towards several of her younger sister's pets and sometimes even the sisters themselves. Once beyond the age of 12, these reports no longer appeared. Either she had stopped with such petty acts, or was wise enough to have them remain unnoticed.

Her skill as a huntress is matched only by her older (half?)sister Avelyn, which is one of the very few entities with a pulse that she holds in high regard. Unlike her older sister though, Vera finds no use for hunting parties and often rides out herself and takes a more intensive approach to the sport of archery and hunting. Rumors had been floating around in court that at one time, Vera had purposefully and intently killed another hunter during a night in the dense forest. However, no person knew where the rumor had started, nor were any local hunters found to be missing. Eventually the rumor had been dismissed as a myth and no investigation had ever been conducted.

When Vera is not hunting, she is usually found in her room, studying ancient texts or ordering around servants to her petty desires. What knowledge she means to acquire from the books is unknown to most in the court, but her desire for fine and exotic fashion is well documented.

Physical Description: Vera is of average height but remarkably fragile looking for a huntress. Her femininity is somewhat underdeveloped compared to her siblings and it is often that visitors mistake her for being a sister much younger and further down the line. Vera has short brown hair that is left to lie straight across her face. Her skin is pale which leads many to believe that her solitude is often spent indoors, not taking into consideration that the princess might go out at night more often than by day.

Appearance:

[Scribbles]

Yay, we needed a little more evil to balance out all the compassion and kindness!

[CarnivorousBunny]

Indeed! I like both evil characters :)

I should really take a stab at a bitch character some time >)

[Vaulera]

Just curious, would I be allowed to create a hero as well? I'm not sure of your stance on the gender roleplay stuff. Seeing as there are more ladies than heroes, I would make a hero, and switch to a lady if the balance tipped either way.

[Scribbles]

I should really take a stab at a bitch character some time >)

This is actually my first stab so I'm hoping I can pull her personality off.

[CarnivorousBunny]

Just curious, would I be allowed to create a hero as well? I'm not sure of your stance on the gender roleplay stuff. Seeing as there are more ladies than heroes, I would make a hero, and switch to a lady if the balance tipped either way.

Skies mentioned earlier that the ratio was 5 men and 4 women, so there may be male player who expressed interest outside the thread.

Scribbles: I know what you mean.  Looking back at it I think I played a cold, calculating character once, but she did it out of necessity than personality, and it still felt weird.

[mj2002]

Yay, we needed a little more evil to balance out all the compassion and kindness!

Just as I posted, I found out that my character is very similar to yours. At least there's still some differences. I hope it's alright!

[Scribbles]

CarnivorousBunny,

Can definitely feel a little weird although having a reason does help, otherwise you just can't help but look at your own charry and think, "Gawd, why do you have to be such a bitch?" There's also the risk of overdoing it and having your character completely ostracized for the rest of the RP.

mj2002,

It's fine mj, it'll just give them a lot of stuff to chat about. They'll definitely have to share a hunting trip.

[azzmeister89]

sorry mj but that is the cutest bitchy character i have ever seen -drools-

[mj2002]

sorry mj but that is the cutest bitchy character i have ever seen -drools-

Oh appearances can be deceiving, and they will be!

[azzmeister89]

clearly, i'm excited to see how this game turns out

[TheHangedOne]

As am I. Thus far, it still seems like their is only one princess for Henrik.  :-)

[azzmeister89]

i think this rp needs more princesses then Heroes, the idea of them fighting over the Heroes whilst the Heroes fight each other sounds so much more fun

[mj2002]

i think this rp needs more princesses then Heroes, the idea of them fighting over the Heroes whilst the Heroes fight each other sounds so much more fun

This game needs more heroes! Which girl doesn't like the sight of men battling over their attention!?

[azzmeister89]

you have a point there, we need more of both!

[Untamed Skies]

Wow that'll teach me to go to sleep, Vera is definitely accepted.

I can't wait to see if our cold princesses are capable of putting on a warm facade to attract naive heroes. Or the other way around. Nothing is easier to control then a righteous being seeking a righteous cause.

Out of curiosity which princesses are going to fight in the tournament? I know Avelyn was created before I changed them to create more thing for our princesses to do.

Just curious, would I be allowed to create a hero as well? I'm not sure of your stance on the gender roleplay stuff. Seeing as there are more ladies than heroes, I would make a hero, and switch to a lady if the balance tipped either way.

I don't have a problem with you wanting to create a hero. In fact It was my intention to have a couple more heroes then Princesses, forces the backstabbing a bit I think, and since the men "must" fight in the tournament opens up ample opportunities to try and sabotage each other.

[Scribbles]

Avelyn won't be participating in the tournament, it's not really her style.

[Untamed Skies]

Ok good to know.

Ooh and I missed it on my initial scrolling to catch up with everything happened but, Jacquelyn is also accepted

[mj2002]

I don't think Vera will be participating either. That would mean it would be more obvious if she'd break rules or laws.

[azzmeister89]

None of the princesses seem to be the type that would enter the tourny. Perhaps we should have the tournament involve more then just fighting to give the princesses more to do

[Pentagious666]

a multi event affair is a good idea, me and Skies will discuss it.

[mj2002]

None of the princesses seem to be the type that would enter the tourny. Perhaps we should have the tournament involve more then just fighting to give the princesses more to do

I'm not sure if that's necessary, since there's more than enough for the princess to fuss about and quarrel over. Bur what kind of events do you propose?

[Untamed Skies]

None of the princesses seem to be the type that would enter the tourny. Perhaps we should have the tournament involve more then just fighting to give the princesses more to do

I don't think I'll have the tournament have multiple events but that doesn't mean there needs to be nothing else to make a name for yourself with. Do yo you have anything in mind yourself?

[azzmeister89]

well i figured there would be balls and parties but then the princesses would be doing all sorts to win the love of a hero so they would invite them to several activities such as hunting or horse riding, anything to make one of them support her

[mj2002]

well i figured there would be balls and parties but then the princesses would be doing all sorts to win the love of a hero so they would invite them to several activities such as hunting or horse riding, anything to make one of them support her

I think this would come about naturally, really.

[azzmeister89]

true but it seemed to me like the game was going to focus on the fighting more then anything else

[mj2002]

true but it seemed to me like the game was going to focus on the fighting more then anything else

I can't speak for everyone, but I think I'll find little trouble to act with the heroes when they're between fights. I'm assuming here that this is a tournament that lasts quite some time.

[Untamed Skies]

Yes, The official Tournament has 128 entrants, so that alone will proceed little by little. The entire tournament will take 5-6 weeks to complete. You'll only have one official match in a week. Which leaves plenty of down time to plot, fall in love, manipulate, sabotage, etc.

I will plan out a few balls here and there. A festival for the farm land a few other activities to further flesh it out.

[azzmeister89]

ok sounds good

[Vaulera]

I'll get working on it right away! I want to work on the northern, more barbaric type, but not loincloth style barbarian, just a little bigger and more axey.

[IrishWolf]

hoho, a rival for The Lion of the North?

[AribethAmkiir]

Unlikely I need to say this, but Ellya won't be entering the tournament.  (Big surprise, right?  lol)   

[azzmeister89]

i'm starting to think carni might be the only one to have her princess enter but thats only because of her rebel side

[ArtemisHighmore]

Hmmm I am going to go ahead and set my hat right here. Let me know if there is room still.

[Pentagious666]

truth be told Artemis there should be room for you.

[IrishWolf]

Oh bugger, Artemis is here? Everyone else should just give up now, lol

[ArtemisHighmore]

Hey now, what you are trying to say there Wolf? :P

[IrishWolf]

Nothing nothing, good Artemis. I'm not implying anything along the lines of your being an unstoppable force of nature and that your character will leave the rest of ours wallowing in shame.....Nothing like that at all.

[mj2002]

Hmmm I am going to go ahead and set my hat right here. Let me know if there is room still.

More heroes!

[AribethAmkiir]

More heroes!

I second that

[Untamed Skies]

There is still room for a hero or two. So if you have something in mind to ahead.


There is no problem with the princesses staying out of it it was mostly to attract anyone who might want a more dominate princess or something

sorry for the delay work's been busy.

[Scribbles]

I second that

Thirded, only maybe a few more self-serving ones?

[IrishWolf]

I don't know, I think any hero trying to win the throne, is self-serving. Their not doing it for someone else but power for themselves. Maybe they have a noble cause but it's their want to be emperor. 

[Scribbles]

IrishWolf,

Most of them have good intentions though as opposed to simply wanting the throne for the sake of greed alone.

[mj2002]

Thirded

How about extra Scribbleses?

[azzmeister89]

my characters not strictly all honorable, he loves to win glory, being the next emperor would do that for him, to Reynik its all just a challenge to be conquered

[ArtemisHighmore]

Self serving? Would you two get out of my head already. How did you know?

[IrishWolf]

Erwin is all for the Empire but fourteen years battling in the north, has earned him some reward, no? Emperor will be good enough.

[ArtemisHighmore]

Alright, roughish draft.

User: ArtemisHighmore
Character: Gavin Tyro of Greyhawk
Role: Hero/ Duke of Greyhawk
Age: 28
Height: 6’5”
Weight: 200
Weapon(s): Gavin is skilled with the long sword as well as the bow.
Personality: Used to hardship and warfare, jaded from the loss of friends and family over the years.

Background: Gavin was born to the Duke of Greyhawk, a small castle at the very edge of the empire. From the beginning he was taught that they stood alone, the Emperor having little care for them other than the trade that they managed to bring over the Storm Sea. Like his older brothers, he was practically born with a sword in his hand, taught to fight not long after he could walk. Training was ruthless and everything else, including lessons, was considered secondary to the training.

His constant training would be put to the test early on when The Iron Men, a band of savage, seafaring people, launched a raid into Greyhawk’s farming hamlets. Gavin had ridden out beside his brothers, searching the area for the wild men. They were ambushed at dusk and a bloody, savage battle ensued that left his oldest brother and half their force dead upon the field but they managed to drive back The Iron Men. Having barely survived himself, Gavin devoted himself even more to training, stopping only to eat and sleep.

The Iron Men, having licked their wounds and gathered their forces, launched a raid upon the Castle of Greyhawk itself. A request for forces was sent to the Emperor but no response was ever received, though several of the smaller kingdoms did lend their banners. The ensuing war was hard fought and claimed more than Gavin had ever been willing to give. With the loss of his father and older brother, Gavin was suddenly elevated to position of Duke at the age of twenty four. Even in the wake of victory, the seeds of resentment were planted in his hear, his eyes ever turned westward towards that distance figure how called himself their Emperor.

Four years later, Gavin has reestablished Greyhawk as the stalwart defender of the east that it had once been. Several times he had entertained the idea of rallying some of the outlying kingdoms and attempting a revolt but his mother, ever his advisor, was quick to pull the curtain upon such ideas, not wanting to see her death of her youngest before her mortal coil expired. When the invitation of the Royal Tournament arrived, Gavin had been tempted to cast it to the sea in disgust. His mother was quicker, explaining the possibilities should he achieve victory, the ability to reach his goals. Leaving his mother to rule in his stead, Gavin has set out upon the long journey that will take him to the very center of the Empire and face to face with the man that had betrayed his trust.

Physical Description: Gavin has a weathered roughness about him that is the product of his homeland, a windswept, harsh place on the edge of the cold Storm Sea. He keeps his hair curly and wild, his concern having never really been for his appearance but more his ability with the sword.

Appearance: See Wiki

[CarnivorousBunny]

Appearance: See Wiki

I LOVE this actor * 3* So sexy, haha!
And I love what you have so far, it leaves a lot of room for sneakiery and deceit :)

[ArtemisHighmore]

What? Sneaky and deceit? Never! >.> <.<

[CarnivorousBunny]

What? Sneaky and deceit? Never! >.> <.<

Yes, and for sure Jacquelyn will pick up on this treachery! But that won't necessarily stop her from being fascinated by the scoundrel with a weathered face and dark eyes. Dramadrama

[Untamed Skies]

Gavin and Cedric have very similar origins to their rise to power. He's accepted.

I'm going to start putting together the tournament bracket, my plan is for the first few rounds allow everyone to beat NPC's down. I'm thinking since they'll just be random plebeians that you can have full control over it. 

If you guys want to make up your home country, I'll put together a map of the overall Empire as well.

The last bit of business is does anyone want to control a High NPC?

[CarnivorousBunny]

They do, but they don't want to take revenge over her family.  That adds a bit of scary sexy anger that a sheltered girl looking for adventure won't be able to ignore.
But she will try, and will try to befriend to more honourable men like Henrik and Cedric.

I'm still considering playing the people's representative.  Let me sit on that one.

[Untamed Skies]

Cedric is only really honorable depending on who you ask. Each of his moves as Duke have been two sided, on the one hand he showed great compassion when he spared the bandits, on the other hand instead of punishing bandits he employed them. On the one hand he safeguarded the crops as if they were more valuable then gold, on the other hand he showed less mercy to the people who dared to steal from them then he did to the bandits in the first place. While his actions worked out in the long run he hasn't shown much care or interest in the opinion of the people around him.

[ArtemisHighmore]

Similar but there is a lack of that honorable side in Gavin. All he craves is the power and elevation of Greyhawk in the eyes of the Empire as he feels that they had been left to suffer the raids of barbarians on their own while the Empire grows fat and lethargic.

Example: The skeletons of the last Iron Men raid still swing in their cages along the coast... >.>

[Untamed Skies]

I think they'll make good rivals. Cedric has been seeking power because when his country fell into civil war the Empire didn't offer assistance, that lead to the death of his first wife and child. So he's in the same boat, the difference is he is looking to fix it the Empire and is willing to do anything to get it. He isn't just doing it for power.

[ArtemisHighmore]

Yes good rivals indeed.

[IrishWolf]

Whiners, both of them! The Empire has many enemies and vast borders! The generals, knights and armies can't be everywhere! Be gratful when the loyal servants of the Emperor can be bothered with your petty concerns!

-Erwin von Ritter,
Lion of the North,
Defender of the Empire,
Soon-to-be Emperor.

[ArtemisHighmore]

-After having a scribe duplicate the letter, he has it sent back to his allies, more fuel for the fire- ;)

[Asok]

Well, I hope there is room for one more hero...

However, Nohman would almost be better defined as a villian...

[AribethAmkiir]

Pretty sure "hero" is a loose term here.  As long as your character doesn't make a habit of raping and pillaging, or if he does, he keeps that quiet and well hidden behind military victories. 

[ArtemisHighmore]

You mean to tell me raping and pillaging is frowned upon? Well damn!

[Asok]

Well, here goes nothin'.

User: Asok
Character: Nohman Macion of Vrax
Role: Hero/ Prime Minister/Head Strategist of Vrax Nation
Age: 29
Height: 6’8”
Weight: 260 (What isn’t bone and muscle is his wonderful brain)
Weapon(s): Great Sword, Gauntlets, Bare Hands, and Brute Strength
Personality: Violent, but not without purpose, even if purpose is to watch pain take effect or life fade from his enemy’s/opponent’s eyes, cold-hearted, extremely intimidating, arrogant to a fault, highly intelligent, scheming, excellent strategist, enjoys watching others writhe in pain almost as much he likes watching others feeble attempts to cause him pain, but is caught off guard when someone actually does succeed in doing so, and is almost completely deaf to cries for mercy. However, he knows legal limits and follows them to a T. He is a High-Ranking person in Vrax, afterall.
Background:
A skull-crushingly strong warrior, Nohman often broke bones of enemies with his bare hands and brute force. Was a frontline infantryman for the nation of Vrax during their expansion into a neighboring nation that was known as Jyrune. He would often hold bets with allied soldiers on when and how they would die in battle.

Jyrune put up heavy resistance, with battles between the two nations leading to casualties of Vrax reaching an average of 400 per battle. In between these battles, Nohman would devise plans that any he presented them to would consider fantasy-caliber in possibility.

However, three days before a large scale battle between the two nations, Nohman heard rumor of a High-Ranking General commanding the army he was about to crush. He devised a strategy to slip past the primary forces of the Jyrune army, go straight for that general and force him to have his army surrender. Out of sheer luck, his plan was approved at the very last minute.

A direct order letter from the Prime Minister of Vrax arrived as Nohman was suiting up for battle, giving his plan the green light and providing a list of names for the best squad possible. Nohman picked three other soldiers to aid him and set out immediately. They snuck past or disabled every scouting squad Jyrune had sent, captured General Vaughn Sowenhortz, and had that sect of the Jyrune Military (over 15,000 soldiers strong) surrender before a drop of Vrax Blood could be spilt. This operation would come to be known as the “Bloodless Battle” by the Vrax Military, and garnered Nohman an extremely large amount of respect and status. From that point on, any strategy Nohman presented was immediately put into action. Out of the 20 operations that Nohman headed, only 2 failed, and all the others saw a ferocious example of Nohman’s love for causing pain and instilling fear in the enemy.

Nohman often made sport Jyrune soldiers. One of his favorite past times became breaking both of their legs and one of their arms, allowing them 30 seconds to either pull themselves as far from the battle as possible, beg for mercy, or writhe in pain for his enjoyment before he stomped their heads into mush.

The final operation Nohman led was taking the completely surrounded Capitol of Jyrune by force. The King of Jyrune awaited the enemy soldiers in his chambers, planning on surrender. He had the misfortune of having Nohman be the one to meet him in his chambers. The pain and suffering King Jyrune endured at Nohman’s hands was so intense, it is scarcely detailed in extremely classified records of the Vrax Library. Alas, with a King broken and a military decimated, Jyrune had no choice but to submit to Vrax.

After the Expansion War of Jyrune, Nohman became advisor to the Prime Minister who had approved his initial strategy. As the Prime minister aged and was set to be replaced, the King of Vrax placed Nohman the position. However, the taste for battle never truly left him, as he would often join in Vrax tournaments and destroy the competition. He has since grown tired of the tournaments in his homeland and hungers for a truly worthy fight.

Physical Description: Extremely tall and muscular making him very strong but also slow in battle, many scars across his face, chest, and arms, darkish skin, grey eyes (at first glance they seem soulless and cold, but if examined further, a sadistic fire can be seen deep inside), short white hair.
Appearance:

[TheHangedOne]

Hah. If Henrik wins, he'll work on getting peace with their neighbors, and improving the quality of life for everyone in the empire. So even if Cedric and Gavin lose to him, it won't be a complete bust.

[Untamed Skies]

Hero means man of status, or reputation more or less.

Whiners, both of them! The Empire has many enemies and vast borders! The generals, knights and armies can't be everywhere! Be gratful when the loyal servants of the Emperor can be bothered with your petty concerns!

-Erwin von Ritter,
Lion of the North,
Defender of the Empire,
Soon-to-be Emperor.

-I admire such bravado, however I have fear that your tutor hasn't been vigilant in his or her duty. As such I've taken the liberty of sending a few books that might help you out, it's nothing much simply mathematics, geography, they'll allow you to understand such things as what a country is and how much money and men it might cost to lose such a territory then be forced to reclaim it.

Fight the good fight

Cedric Valda Duke of Galdoa

Ooh and Asok welcome to the tournament.

[ArtemisHighmore]

If Cedric keeps that up I am not sure they will stay rivals. >.>

[Untamed Skies]

ooh why is that?

[ArtemisHighmore]

Because they think along the same lines in that regards though their reasons are different.

[Untamed Skies]

That's true, though it might be such similarities that make them into rivals. I think we have a good blend of personalities for this group, it'll make things very fun.

[ArtemisHighmore]

Indeed indeed. So when are you planning IC stuff?

[CarnivorousBunny]

I'm going to edit my character profile just a bit.  With the way the game is shaping up, I think it would be more interesting if I made Jacquelyn a liar rather than someone who is too honest, but I think I'll keep her blunt and hard headed as well.

[Untamed Skies]

I'll get it up pretty soon, we still need High NPC's our ratio right now is 8 heroes (with Vaulera's hero)-4 princesses which actually exceeded what  I thought would be interested.

So maybe we can use another princess, and I need to get the bracket all set up and together. Otherwise we're pretty much good to go.

And ok Carni

[ArtemisHighmore]

Might I inquire why we need the NPC's if they are NPC's? Sorry, strange question. Haha

[AribethAmkiir]

I like the 2:1 ratio personally.

[Untamed Skies]

In order to gain the crown of Emperor you need approval from at least 4 of the 5 high authorities, no matter what you need a princess to marry, which is supposed to be the advantage of the tournament as it guarantee's you one.

The point would be to not allow any one of us to simply decide they had all the support needed to be named Emperor.

[Asok]

Greetings, good health, and a proud fighting spirit to all.
We of the Vrax Nation are proud to stand side by side with and toe to toe against our Empire's esteemed heroes in this tournament to the throne.
We find it only fair to forewarn you that the mighty Nohman Macion, Hero and Strategist of the Jyrune Expansion Campaign has been sent as our representative and tournament partcipant, so please, fight to your limits to show the Empire your worth!
Gracefully,
Namaco Vrax VI
"Only through a Meeting of Strengths May One Truly Understand Another"

[Untamed Skies]

I like the 2:1 ratio personally.

Yeah and I think 12 overall is a pretty good number. I think I see one more lurker but otherwise I'm going to go ahead and close off heroes and princesses. 

[ArtemisHighmore]

Well then why not do it democratically, or allow the princess players, should they so choose to control the NPCs. Essentially reach agreement as a group. This would prevent anyone from really swaying anything out right through direct control. Just a thought.

[AribethAmkiir]

Well then why not do it democratically, or allow the princess players, should they so choose to control the NPCs. Essentially reach agreement as a group. This would prevent anyone from really swaying anything out right through direct control. Just a thought.

This has merit.

We could just use unbiased common sense or add events to the tournament in order for the heroes to gain certain NPC's favor.   I think the princesses should also be able to effect how much support a hero gets from the other 4 authorities.  For instance, if a princess is loved by the people and favors a certain hero than she should be able to sway that NPC into supporting that hero as well.

Just an idea.

[Untamed Skies]

I like where that idea is going actually. So long as we can expect everyone to play fairly then there shouldn't be a problem with that at all. It even forces every hero to not ignore any of the princesses since essentially they'll need their favor in order to get what they want. I just feel like I need to come up with on more detail. For example what's to keep the princesses from picking their favorites and making sure no others can get close.

Maybe at certain points have a vote in the OOC taking into account the princess's opinion and everything else that would be known to the Rep. That way we don't have to worry about how a character is acting and only need to focus on the story and how it proceeded?

[ArtemisHighmore]

Well that was generally what I was aiming at. My hope would be that the people are hear to role play and develop the characters, not just to say 'Woohoo I won emperor, nananana'. Basically I say we had a side thread where general 'votes' can be tallied on how someone's favor is with so and so. Just my thought.

I mean if it needs to be done, I can step into the shoes of an NPC.

[Untamed Skies]

Ok, I thought that might be what you were going with just wasn't positive. I like that idea, I think it'll be the best idea to go with, and that way everything should only serve to make the story better.

[ArtemisHighmore]

Indeed. We will just have to figure out how to judge scenes where one character speaks with the NPC as the contenders would be likely to try and get the those in power on their side. Oh the joys of complexities!

[Untamed Skies]

I had each character in order of their joining take a roll my virtual D-8 to determine their places (won't fight each other until the quarter finals.) Now I need to go make up 120 names to fill in the rest of the bracket.

We could avoid the NPC's altogether, have them use spies and the like to keep track of everything then just have a letter sent to the hero being accepted. Makes it simpler probably.

[CarnivorousBunny]

But then how do we decide what the spy finds? A discussion and decision based on what would make the RP more interesting, or do the NPCs know everything?

[ArtemisHighmore]

That works too. I would recommend just finding a Medieval name generator. XD

[Untamed Skies]

But then how do we decide what the spy finds? A discussion and decision based on what would make the RP more interesting, or do the NPCs know everything?

I tend to be more based on what makes the RP more interesting. Since it'll be OOC we can discuss what we think will be the right time to catch certain individuals with their hands in the cookie jar.

That works too. I would recommend just finding a Medieval name generator. XD

I resorted to that after I ran out of names.

I think this seems most appropriate to be placed in Human small group system?

[CarnivorousBunny]

I tend to be more based on what makes the RP more interesting. Since it'll be OOC we can discuss what we think will be the right time to catch certain individuals with their hands in the cookie jar.

Yeah, I think that's the better option as well.  The Human small groups sounds appropriate to me.

Anyway, I am done editing Jacquelyn.  I feel she is more deserving of her title as the impish princess.

[ArtemisHighmore]

Yeah, human small group works for me.

[mj2002]

This has merit.

We could just use unbiased common sense or add events to the tournament in order for the heroes to gain certain NPC's favor.   I think the princesses should also be able to effect how much support a hero gets from the other 4 authorities.  For instance, if a princess is loved by the people and favors a certain hero than she should be able to sway that NPC into supporting that hero as well.

Just an idea.

I had intended on my character certainly trying to sway an NPC at least, though the one that represents the people isn't likely to be the one.

[azzmeister89]

Wow i go to sleep and miss almost three pages, catching up could take a while

[Untamed Skies]

Ok the official threads are up, I apologize on the delay, roommate ran out of gas on his way to work. If you guys don't mind posting your characters in the Character thread I think we're all ready to go. 

recruitment thread
Bazaar Thread
Hero's Quadrant
Palace Thread
The Proving Grounds Thread
Character Thread

And with that it's about 3am here and I'm crashing, I look forward to posting with you all tomorrow.

[Pentagious666]

hey skies, I put up something for all the players to use so that no one gets lost.  I've seen a few other DMs uses it so here.
The New Emperor(Directory)

[ArtemisHighmore]

Looks good. I have a pretty full schedule today so I won't have a post up until later tonight.

[mj2002]

We keeping this thread on for chatter then?

[Untamed Skies]

OOC Thread

Sorry Forgot the OOC thread

[Pentagious666]

By the by the threads are open for posting everyone :P

[ArtemisHighmore]

Woohoo posting!!

[Untamed Skies]

So we are temporarily allowing new interested parties as a few of our initial interest have parted ways. The RP is still very fresh there have only been two matches in the tournament and such. Any questions feel free to post them.

[mj2002]

Need those heroes!

[CarnivorousBunny]

Maybe you should put up on the first page the kind of heroes that would be fun to have in the game right now! I like the idea of a hero with evil intentions.

Rather than a hero who entered to get the crown through just means, he's entered the tournament to try and infiltrate the kingdom and castle to, say, assassinate the emperor and start some new monarchy before the tournament reaches a conclusion.

[AribethAmkiir]

Or heroes who want to kidnap princesses.  That sounds fun.

[mj2002]

Rather than a hero who entered to get the crown through just means, he's entered the tournament to try and infiltrate the kingdom and castle to, say, assassinate the emperor and start some new monarchy before the tournament reaches a conclusion.

Or heroes who want to kidnap princesses.  That sounds fun.

Wait, what happened to the tournament!

[CarnivorousBunny]

It would still be there, but leaving the game open to more possibilities would also be fun. 
If a princess gets kidnapped, it could be kept a secret from certain characters while others are scrambling to find her before the whole city is thrown in to chaos.

There's also no guarantee that the men with these intentions are actually able to pull off their schemes :) I personally think it would just be nice to have different kinds of heroes, both the just, the scoundrels AND the demented :)

[mj2002]

It would still be there, but leaving the game open to more possibilities would also be fun. 
If a princess gets kidnapped, it could be kept a secret from certain characters while others are scrambling to find her before the whole city is thrown in to chaos.

There's also no guarantee that the men with these intentions are actually able to pull off their schemes :) I personally think it would just be nice to have different kinds of heroes, both the just, the scoundrels AND the demented :)

Come to think of it, it would actually be a really good idea assuming the entire story isn't thrown off balance because of it. I suggest you start attracting some kidnappers then!

[Untamed Skies]

We already have half the heroes willing to do anything to take the crown in Cedric, Nohman, and Gavin are all ruthless

[mj2002]

No more heroes available?

[CarnivorousBunny]

I guess we're just waiting for new interest in the game :)

[Untamed Skies]

No more heroes available?

2 slots for heroes I was just stating we aren't really hurting for mean guys.

And yeah hoping for renewed interest

[Untamed Skies]

Ok so now we have 3 hero slots open.

For anyone interested it is still very early in the RP, we had some early drop outs. Two of them never posted. You won't really be at any kind of disadvantage one way or the other.