sevicler
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Post by sevicler on Jul 9, 2017 12:54:47 GMT
Also one more thing; Lets avoid medieval stasis. I posted an article earlier in this thread that explains, in detail, why medieval stasis should not happen to any civilization. One might argue that their particular civilization embraces an ideology that hampers technological progression. Unfortunately, people want to survive. Its literally impossible for the entire world to suddenly be convinced that not inventing things are good for them. After all, a civilization that doesn't constantly improve themselves will die to disease, famine or invading enemies. Unfortunately, this kind of disrupts Paul's note on the Land of the Dead and the Lich King's stance on technological progression. After all, if he's thousands of years old he should know better. I'll post more ideas on magic and maybe design a magic system. I actually want to design 2 magic systems that work in tandem or exists at the same time in the world, instead of the more common single-system that most fantasy has. I think I'll consult with Vincent on this. My $0.02 I agree with the medieval stasis thoughts except where discussing the Undead and the Orc/Goblin/Giant areas. The Lich has a vast amount of Ancient Magic(possibly even a forgotten Magic System that no one else knows: Necromancy) and a horde of undead. He doesn't need to update his equipment and the humans he has enslaved to maintain the Undead equipment would not be motivated to come up with new tech. As far as the other group goes, Giants are typically thought of as "not too bright" and Orcs/Goblins are lazy bullies. Neither would come up with new tech. They'd use new tech if they took it in raids or combat but not create it themselves. Regarding Magic Systems, we could take something like D&D's spells : magical and clerical or something like those described by Lyndon Hardy in his book Master of Five Magics or even go with something like the spell types used in Skyrim. I could agree to your POV on the Orcs/Goblins. However, I still have a beef with the Lich King. We are going to assume that magic takes years of learning and dedication to master. Right now, there is no info on whether or not the Lich King's undead horde has any other magic casters. If there isn't any, which is unlikely, then he's basically shooting his own foot. If there are magic casters, which I'm also going to assume came from the corpses of dead wizards and sorcerers, then he should still be upgrading his tech because every other wizard still alive would figure out that the backbone of the Lich King's army is his magic casters harvested from their corpses and will develop counter-measures, whether by spell or by technology. Once the counter-measures are established, then the Lich King is basically neutralized. Sending horde after hordes of undead at your enemies would be effective only for so long, especially if the Lich King is already established as a universal threat. Thirdly, if the Lich King could create magic casters out of random corpses and the mere force of his magic, then why hasn't he conquered the world yet? TLDR; he doesn't need to, but why wouldn't he want to? Just my opinion |
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Post by demonskull on Jul 9, 2017 12:58:20 GMT
The more complex a political society the more people try to increase their influence.
The Guilds of the Empire:
The primary tradesmen would be Smiths, Merchants/Traders, Jewelers, Money Lenders/Bankers, Shipwrights and in a world such as this the Adventurers/Mercenary.
Thieves "Guild" is not really a guild per se. For the most party they are a protection racket to the legitimate merchants and offer fencing services to their thief members. They have instigated jailbreaks for their best contributors and have even magically changed the appearances of those that were broken out of jail. The costs of these services are extremely high.
Assassins Guild, again not a true guild but a controlling group of individuals who handle most "contracts" and react violently to anyone poaching their contracts who is not a member. Half the contract amount goes to the Hierarchy of the "Guild".
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Post by demonskull on Jul 9, 2017 13:09:45 GMT
I could agree to your POV on the Orcs/Goblins. However, I still have a beef with the Lich King. We are going to assume that magic takes years of learning and dedication to master. Right now, there is no info on whether or not the Lich King's undead horde has any other magic casters. If there isn't any, which is unlikely, then he's basically shooting his own foot. If there are magic casters, which I'm also going to assume came from the corpses of dead wizards and sorcerers, then he should still be upgrading his tech because every other wizard still alive would figure out that the backbone of the Lich King's army is his magic casters harvested from their corpses and will develop counter-measures, whether by spell or by technology. Once the counter-measures are established, then the Lich King is basically neutralized. Sending horde after hordes of undead at your enemies would be effective only for so long, especially if the Lich King is already established as a universal threat. Thirdly, if the Lich King could create magic casters out of random corpses and the mere force of his magic, then why hasn't he conquered the world yet? Just my opinion Cross typing while you posted the above. Interesting thought. I was going to go with the undead horde and the raised dead wizard approach. This would give him a horde of fighters and a group of undead wizards for spell use. To your thought there could be living wizards who wish to learn the Necromancy school of magic and would fight on his side and possibly supplement some new tech. It does bring the question who is designing then making this new styled weaponry. Melee weapons could remain stagnant but siege equipment could have changed to include ballista, trebucheon and catapult instead of just rams and siege ladders. Maybe this is how it becomes known of him (the Lich) becoming a greater threat, by the need for more and better lumber. I hear he's negotiating with the Orcs for this. |
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sevicler
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Post by sevicler on Jul 9, 2017 13:42:59 GMT
Well I have a -very- rough draft of a magic system that I just wrote in the last 2 hours or so. It needs a lot of suggestions and balancing. Spell names are also welcome. There's also another one I'm working on called the Merseburg System inspired by DnD that I will upload later or tomorrow.
MAGIC SYSTEM
(work in progress)
The Notarikon System
Named after the city where the system was codified and expanded upon, the Notarikon System’s main caveat is the extreme power each spell from its magic schools and disciplines have. Though somewhat more difficult to learn than the Merseburg System, it is still widely used in the modern world and is still expanded upon. However, the Notarikon System is known to be more dangerous than the Merseburg System, as the spells can sometimes feedback and harm its user instead of being cast normally. the Notarikon System's many disciplines also require much more than just mana to cast, sometimes requiring stamina, other casters, or even the soul of its users.
Magic Disciplines:
1. Biomancy: The absolute control of life, polar opposite of Necromancy. Biomancers are masters of the flesh, learning to shape and direct their bodies or the bodies of others according to their wills. Biomancy is most often used in the medical field but can also be used offensively. Biomancy is cast using stamina as well as mana. However, Biomancy cannot extend one’s lifespan indefinitely, as the bodies of their user is strained with every spell cast. Sub-discipline: Chloromancy (control of plants)
2. Telekinesis: The art of the Telekinetic Discipline is to translate mental energy into physical force. Wielders of these powers are known as the telekine, and they readily break the laws of physics with their abilities. Telekinesis is the first discipline anyone who studies the Notarikon System will tackle, and is perhaps the most useful. Telekinesis requires immense concentration as even a single lapse in thought could cause deadly accidents.
3. Telepathy: The Discipline of Telepathy allows the practitioner to contact and control the minds of others. From outright mental domination to subtle perceptual effects, the telepath can shape and mould thoughts with but a whim. Telepathy, however, is limited to the user’s mental stamina, and few who tread the path of the Telepath remain sane for life. Using Telepathy offensively often leaves traces of the victims in their killer’s mind, sometimes as simple whispers or even vivid images of their memories or feeling their pain as they died. Perhaps the most dangerous of magic disciplines.
4. Anima Mea/Anima Vestra: Anima Mea draws its power from the user’s soul. It requires incredible amounts of self-discipline and control, and even faith. Anima Vestra is cast using the souls of others and is regarded as unethical and a violation of human/living rights because many believe that any souls used in the casting of Anima Vestra spells is denied an afterlife. Anima Mea/Anima Vestra is incredibly powerful, but its users are few and far between. (I need to expand this one a bit more).
5. OVER-TIER (always typed in all caps): Even more powerful than Anima Mea/Vestra, OVER-TIER magic can only be cast a limited amount of time each month and has an exceptionally long cool down period in addition to draining the user’s stamina and mana. Casting a single spell from this discipline will cause every other spell from this particular discipline to suffer the same cool-down timer, this prevents its users from casting multiple spells consecutively. This discipline takes decades to master and its users are usually identified as high-ranking magic casters working for a nation and will not offer their services to anyone else. A known user of OVER-TIER magic is the Lich King, who has somehow removed the loss of mana and stamina from casting, thus allowing him to cast other spells immediately.
As always, suggestions are welcome.
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ramses1079
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It puts the lotion in the basket
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Post by ramses1079 on Jul 9, 2017 13:54:08 GMT
Another quick update, this time on the Fantasy World itself. This is very much version 1.0 as the continent that is the focus of our adventures does not even have a name yet and many of the minor civilizations and city states that make it up have not yet been added or fleshed out, but here is is a first draft map along with the major Geo-political divisions that I whipped up a little earlier..  MAJOR CIVILIZATIONSThe EmpireThe Empire is basically the dominant political force on the continent and has been for the last 1000 years, expanding ever Eastward. It is loosely based on the Roman and Byzantine Empires but is tempered by powerful Warrior Clerics who advise and guide the Emperor with a holy counsel. The Capital is the pinnacle of this worlds civilization - all roads lead to it.. NorthmenNordic Raiders from the Icy North - the Northmen have been and continue to be a threat to the Empire. Despite being blocked and contained on the land by the Empires Northernmost Bastion (which was only completed in the last 200 years) the Northmen continue to menace the coastal waters with their Longships. BadlandsEvery fantasy world needs a 'no go zone' and the Badlands is our version, dividing the Elven lands from the lands of men. Dominated by Orcish and Hobgoblin Warbands, it is not a pleasant place to visit and incursions from its barren wastelands an ongoing concern for man and elf alike.. Land of the DeadMilitarily, it rivals the Empire but to date while relations between the two Kingdoms is frosty at best, to date distance and the relative equality of their armed forces has prevented war. But as the Empire expands, War is inevitable.. Much older than the Empire, it is a place of great secrets - for the Regent is but a puppet of an ancient, Undead benevolent dictator Lich-King Pharaoh who has ruled the Kingdom for thousands of years and who has no plans of giving up his power anytime soon.. Standard Army with Undead reservists and an elite Skeleton Warrior Praetorian Guard. The Elven LandsThe name says it all. Where the elves live.. Separated from the rest of the continent by mountains and accessible only by sea and a narrow pass near the sea where the Elven forest begins in earnest. OTHER MINOR NATIONS NOT ON THE MAPThere are some other Nations and City States that are not on the map yet. The Empire is Suzerain of several allied city states surrounding it - most of which joined voluntarily. Directly to the South of the Empire, beyond impassible mountains, is the 'mysterious east' - an oriental land dominated by monks and an ancient sleeping oriental Dragon as King. Between the Badlands and the Empire are several recently conquered Kingdoms. PLOTS AND STORY- Naturally, all is not well in the Empire. While for the last thousand years the Emperors have been benevolent, bound by a code of laws and deriving a mandate of heaven from the high priest of the good aligned clerics, the heir apparent to the throne is in league with dark forces who plan to take over the Empire from the inside out and use it to achieve their own ancient, nefarious ends. If the current Emperor dies, his son will plunge the Empire into chaos, persecuting the clerics, creating a new order and drive the Empire into a war it is doomed to lose..
- Something drives the Lich King to go over the edge and his Undead troops war against the living in a civil war of unholy proportions. Perhaps he is killing all his subjects due to a prophesy that one of them will de-throne him and return his lands to the living..
- The Orcs have a new King, and with demonic backing, he raises the largest army of Orcs the world has ever seen on an orgy of destruction hell bent on destroying the Empire.
- Evil ships arrive from the misty seas, bringing a new, unknown and extremely powerful inhuman enemy that even the might of the Imperial Army cannot hold back.
- The Capital is suddenly destroyed, exploding into fire from below or above, and from the crater where it once stood, an army of hell claws its way out and wars against the off-balanced remaining Imperial forces, which come from every corner of the known world to beat them back to whence they came..
- A powerful city state resists the Empire, stopping their uninterrupted history of conquest in its tracks and beating them back. Now the city state is on the march for the capital, and for the first time the Imperial army looks like it may lose..
- All of the above, happening at the same time..!
A NOTE ON ERAS Most of the countries and cultures within this world will approximate historical weapons close to the design and style of the culture that they closely represent. For example, the Land of the Dead would have Khopesh. The Empire, Gladius. But there would also be medieval and early renaissance period swords and weapons..
For the Land of the Dead, the reason they have not upgraded their technology could be because the Lich King, who does not like change, forbids it. That and the fact that they use a lot of magic and have not had to fight any technologically advanced neighbors who made them reconsider the weapons efficiency.
For the Empire, an imaginative reason why they continue to use a kind of Gladius.. How about they discovered some magical meteoric steel that forces them to forge a shorter blade as the magic only works when the steel is a certain weight, and so can only be made into a stout shortsword or a long, thin rapier.. This could also be the key to the Empires meteoric rise (pardon the pun) - every soldier is effectively issued a +1 weapon, which allowed the army to take on monsters that can only be hit by magic weapons and clear out new lands for the Empires grateful citizens..
SUMMARY The map will be fleshed out and redesigned as we add or subtract cultures, city states, etc. Rivers and main roads will be added, the trees growing out of the sea near the Northmen will be replanted in soil somewhere. And the swords and the characters who you guys have developed will all be added into the milieu..
And that's when it will start to get really interesting..
So guys, from here, feel free to submit any ideas that challenge, compliment or otherwise flesh out this fledgling world. If you have any ideas for the names of the Kingdoms, cities in the Kingdoms, main players (the Emperor, his son, the Lich-King, etc) - feel free to submit them. Got an image in your head of what one of the scenes or characters described here looks like and can draw it? Then submit it here..!
Finally, Vince - is there a way you can do what is necessary to your photobucket account to restore the images in your posts? You have at least one sword in the short list, but without the pics I am having trouble identifying which sword(s) was selected..
That's all for now, we are in the final stages of creating the true shortlist, have confirmation from the forge that all the designs we have selected are feasible and we are getting close to making both the fantasy world and the swords within it come to life..
It is extremely hard narrowing it down, indeed, there are so many good designs here that there will definitely be a round 2 and quite possibly a third round just from the designs submitted to date..
So stay tuned, slowly but surely, this collaborative project of ours is taking shape..!
Instead of mountains, Elven land should be protected by a magical forest thhat keeps mortals, good/evil, either lost in the magical wood or no matter what direction they travel in (north, south, east, west) they always end up walking "out" the way they entered. Only other elves, or those gifted with a magical charm/item may enter the enchanted woods unaffected by its powers. |
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ramses1079
Member
It puts the lotion in the basket
Posts: 549
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Post by ramses1079 on Jul 9, 2017 13:57:07 GMT
It's still not fair that people can use computer drawing system, when everyone else entered hand drawn ideas!
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Post by demonskull on Jul 9, 2017 14:43:31 GMT
It's still not fair that people can use computer drawing system, when everyone else entered hand drawn ideas! I'd have to disagree. I too couldn't use a computer drawing system if my life depended on it but if the contest was for storytelling, would it matter whether I typed the story, hand wrote the story and photoed it or invested the time to make a video of it me reading the story ? You must take into consideration the folks who submitted computer drawn entries also invested the time to learn those systems so in all honesty they have spent more time on their submissions then those of us who didn't. |
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Post by demonskull on Jul 9, 2017 14:49:09 GMT
Well I have a -very- rough draft of a magic system that I just wrote in the last 2 hours or so. It needs a lot of suggestions and balancing. Spell names are also welcome. There's also another one I'm working on called the Merseburg System inspired by DnD that I will upload later or tomorrow. MAGIC SYSTEM (work in progress) The Notarikon System
Named after the city where the system was codified and expanded upon, the Notarikon System’s main caveat is the extreme power each spell from its magic schools and disciplines have. Though somewhat more difficult to learn than the Merseburg System, it is still widely used in the modern world and is still expanded upon. However, the Notarikon System is known to be more dangerous than the Merseburg System, as the spells can sometimes feedback and harm its user instead of being cast normally. the Notarikon System's many disciplines also require much more than just mana to cast, sometimes requiring stamina, other casters, or even the soul of its users. Magic Disciplines:
1. Biomancy: The absolute control of life, polar opposite of Necromancy. Biomancers are masters of the flesh, learning to shape and direct their bodies or the bodies of others according to their wills. Biomancy is most often used in the medical field but can also be used offensively. Biomancy is cast using stamina as well as mana. However, Biomancy cannot extend one’s lifespan indefinitely, as the bodies of their user is strained with every spell cast. Sub-discipline: Chloromancy (control of plants) 2. Telekinesis: The art of the Telekinetic Discipline is to translate mental energy into physical force. Wielders of these powers are known as the telekine, and they readily break the laws of physics with their abilities. Telekinesis is the first discipline anyone who studies the Notarikon System will tackle, and is perhaps the most useful. Telekinesis requires immense concentration as even a single lapse in thought could cause deadly accidents. 3. Telepathy: The Discipline of Telepathy allows the practitioner to contact and control the minds of others. From outright mental domination to subtle perceptual effects, the telepath can shape and mould thoughts with but a whim. Telepathy, however, is limited to the user’s mental stamina, and few who tread the path of the Telepath remain sane for life. Using Telepathy offensively often leaves traces of the victims in their killer’s mind, sometimes as simple whispers or even vivid images of their memories or feeling their pain as they died. Perhaps the most dangerous of magic disciplines. 4. Anima Mea/Anima Vestra: Anima Mea draws its power from the user’s soul. It requires incredible amounts of self-discipline and control, and even faith. Anima Vestra is cast using the souls of others and is regarded as unethical and a violation of human/living rights because many believe that any souls used in the casting of Anima Vestra spells is denied an afterlife. Anima Mea/Anima Vestra is incredibly powerful, but its users are few and far between. (I need to expand this one a bit more). 5. OVER-TIER (always typed in all caps): Even more powerful than Anima Mea/Vestra, OVER-TIER magic can only be cast a limited amount of time each month and has an exceptionally long cool down period in addition to draining the user’s stamina and mana. Casting a single spell from this discipline will cause every other spell from this particular discipline to suffer the same cool-down timer, this prevents its users from casting multiple spells consecutively. This discipline takes decades to master and its users are usually identified as high-ranking magic casters working for a nation and will not offer their services to anyone else. A known user of OVER-TIER magic is the Lich King, who has somehow removed the loss of mana and stamina from casting, thus allowing him to cast other spells immediately. As always, suggestions are welcome. What system/school would the quick defensive/offensive spells fall under ? The systems you outlined would provide for long term and difficult spells but using these systems would have the caster dead before he could cast a shield against arrows or a fireball/magic missile type spell. |
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sevicler
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Post by sevicler on Jul 9, 2017 14:57:22 GMT
Well I have a -very- rough draft of a magic system that I just wrote in the last 2 hours or so. It needs a lot of suggestions and balancing. Spell names are also welcome. There's also another one I'm working on called the Merseburg System inspired by DnD that I will upload later or tomorrow. MAGIC SYSTEM (work in progress) The Notarikon System
Named after the city where the system was codified and expanded upon, the Notarikon System’s main caveat is the extreme power each spell from its magic schools and disciplines have. Though somewhat more difficult to learn than the Merseburg System, it is still widely used in the modern world and is still expanded upon. However, the Notarikon System is known to be more dangerous than the Merseburg System, as the spells can sometimes feedback and harm its user instead of being cast normally. the Notarikon System's many disciplines also require much more than just mana to cast, sometimes requiring stamina, other casters, or even the soul of its users. Magic Disciplines:
1. Biomancy: The absolute control of life, polar opposite of Necromancy. Biomancers are masters of the flesh, learning to shape and direct their bodies or the bodies of others according to their wills. Biomancy is most often used in the medical field but can also be used offensively. Biomancy is cast using stamina as well as mana. However, Biomancy cannot extend one’s lifespan indefinitely, as the bodies of their user is strained with every spell cast. Sub-discipline: Chloromancy (control of plants) 2. Telekinesis: The art of the Telekinetic Discipline is to translate mental energy into physical force. Wielders of these powers are known as the telekine, and they readily break the laws of physics with their abilities. Telekinesis is the first discipline anyone who studies the Notarikon System will tackle, and is perhaps the most useful. Telekinesis requires immense concentration as even a single lapse in thought could cause deadly accidents. 3. Telepathy: The Discipline of Telepathy allows the practitioner to contact and control the minds of others. From outright mental domination to subtle perceptual effects, the telepath can shape and mould thoughts with but a whim. Telepathy, however, is limited to the user’s mental stamina, and few who tread the path of the Telepath remain sane for life. Using Telepathy offensively often leaves traces of the victims in their killer’s mind, sometimes as simple whispers or even vivid images of their memories or feeling their pain as they died. Perhaps the most dangerous of magic disciplines. 4. Anima Mea/Anima Vestra: Anima Mea draws its power from the user’s soul. It requires incredible amounts of self-discipline and control, and even faith. Anima Vestra is cast using the souls of others and is regarded as unethical and a violation of human/living rights because many believe that any souls used in the casting of Anima Vestra spells is denied an afterlife. Anima Mea/Anima Vestra is incredibly powerful, but its users are few and far between. (I need to expand this one a bit more). 5. OVER-TIER (always typed in all caps): Even more powerful than Anima Mea/Vestra, OVER-TIER magic can only be cast a limited amount of time each month and has an exceptionally long cool down period in addition to draining the user’s stamina and mana. Casting a single spell from this discipline will cause every other spell from this particular discipline to suffer the same cool-down timer, this prevents its users from casting multiple spells consecutively. This discipline takes decades to master and its users are usually identified as high-ranking magic casters working for a nation and will not offer their services to anyone else. A known user of OVER-TIER magic is the Lich King, who has somehow removed the loss of mana and stamina from casting, thus allowing him to cast other spells immediately. As always, suggestions are welcome. What system/school would the quick defensive/offensive spells fall under ? The systems you outlined would provide for long term and difficult spells but using these systems would have the caster dead before he could cast a shield against arrows or a fireball/magic missile type spell. This particular system is not meant for the mundane types of spells. This is more geared towards dangerous, extreme high damage spells that would fit well for a 'glass-cannon' type magic caster, perhaps protected by other magic casters from projectiles and other long distance spells. the Notarikon System is extremely deadly but has a LOT of drawbacks, for the sake of balance. I haven't actually made any specific spells for each discipline. I uploaded this one quicker in order to get feedback. After all, there's plenty of room for development. I'm still working on the more mundane system. I'm not gonna be able to finish that one today though. |
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Post by dchisenh on Jul 9, 2017 17:12:38 GMT
I'm really liking how the story-telling aspect of this project is coming along! I think as Paul starts to detail the settings (geographical references, general cultures, a few key characters like a lich king and the Empire), it would be easier for people to flesh out the details on their character's backstory and give us a population of characters to work with. I would suggest that since the sword design aspect of this is over (at least the first submission opportunity, so I hope more will come along, especially for other weapons, like daggers, maces, axes, polearms, etc.) that those who either didn't submit a design because they missed the deadline or just aren't skilled enough to do so, be encouraged to create a character in this universe Paul is molding. Perhaps at the time of their backstory they don't have a 'signature' weapon or it's just generic, like a basic kopesh or longsword, but maybe there can be a thread for folks to design their character(s) and allow them to contribute directly to this project. Personally, I would like to see either a dedicated thread or subforum where folks could create a post on their character, starting with their backstory using sort of like a sword review-type template, then be able to continue the thread with either a running storyline (that others could join in, if invited or allowed) or small short stories to create a living atmosphere for this world. Those who are interested could perhaps even use a dedicated "shout box" or a third party chat service, like Discord or something like that, to set a dedicated time for an event, allowing folks with characters to show up if they're interested (kind of like a board announcement like "Saturday, April 5th at 9pm EST, on Discord channel "SBG Stories" an earthquake will trigger a landslide that reveals ancient ruins at the Thunderhaven Mountains"). If the person creating the event wants to act in a 'dungeon master' way to help direct it, the transcripts of the event can be used to flesh out an actual short story that can be reposted here for everyone to enjoy. It's safe to assume there's overlap between the general sword-buying community and fantasy/RPG/D&D-type community, I'm betting something like this could bring in even more folks to this hobby and this site! Now, as far as making this world as user and idea-friendly as possible, I would suggest two things for the general structure of this world: 1) as this is a sword forum, magic use be kept at a minimum. Magic use in fantasy is essential, so it definitely has a place, but I'd suggest it not be overpowering or too fantastical in it's use, for example, being able to call down a meteor to level a mountain or call upon a literal army of 100,000 zombies. 2) and since magic is hard to define, I'd suggest a basic tenant be that the root of all magic come from a user's soul/essence/will/etc. manipulating the fabric of reality. This allows for a user to either possess this talent innately or through rigorous training, a special event, etc. while also allowing for a very, very wide range of 'types' of magic. For example, a monk character could train for years in a monastery to learn to move objects with his mind allowing for a telekinetic type magic, a young pyromancer could just be born with the ability to control/create fire but at the basis of it is their 'will' exciting molecules to such a high energy state they burst into flame and their ability to control that energy state as their 'pyromancy'...allowing a traditional 'mage' character to also be able to do the same thing, but though study and practice. Within the framework of Sevicler's magic structure, the Anima Mae/Animal Vestra could be thought of as 'using' your soul/essence/will to perform higher powered reality manipulation, in the vein of 'matter and energy are neither created or destroyed', you're converting some of your energy to perform this feat, which is a non-infinite resource. Likewise, having this type of soul/essence/will manipulation of reality as the basis for 'magic', it's open to anyone's interpretation of use. Some could take a traditional 'studious mage in his tower reading ancient tomes and scrolls' method or a chance interaction with a god/angel/demon/ghost/object/etc 'awakening' this ability, or just being born with it. Likewise, it's open to every group/culture/individual to define those abilities in whatever system they see fit...so Sevicler's system could be how his character or group could define 'magic' while someone else's character could come from a culture that defines 'magic' differently, or even thinks it's all the same and 'there is no magic'! Also, back in the realm of sword creation, in addition to the winners of this contest leading to several particular sword lines for creation and sale, I'd like to see a few 'base' models of examples a particular culture would use. Like a 'standard issue' kopesh for the lich king's zombies, or a simple gladius for the Empire. The sneak peek at the "Celtic Sword" looks like a base model dwarven sword to me! It has a sort of 'industrial' look to the hilt that seems like it could fit that role nicely. Engraving some runes or plating the pommel or guard in copper would look awesome! In that same vein, I'd love to see some more forum participation from the wealth of talent we have here, perhaps leading to some collaborations for customization where possible. Perhaps a small subset of swords, as a "Special SBG-line" where a bare blade could be sent to a forum member for assembly using a small batch of parts and along with a customized scabbard/belt system....for example, a batch of 20 basic leaf blades sent to someone along with a small order of 20 sets of 3-D printed guards, pommels, and grips to fit them and then assembled by that person in either a standard leather wrap with matching belt and scabbard or for an extra fee some more customization like choice of leather color, etching, etc...whatever the assembler can do. The bladesmiths would get a set commission for that batch, the 3-D printer would get a set commission for that batch of fittings and the assembler would receive a commission to assemble the swords/scabbard/belt and a bit on top if their asked to further customize it. Having the SBG store coordinate the commission of blades and 3-D components by doing a pre-sale after having lined up an assembler here would make it fairly easy for all parties! Another option could be a "SBG Masterpeice" line, where Paul could commission a particular popular design, something that grows to prominence as the world and story develops, as a small line or 1-off creation from start to finish by one of our talented manufactures here in the forum! Allowing them to make some creative embellishments, like etching, inlays, etc. to create a true masterpiece that could either be sold for a set price or even auctioned! Let's say for example the Sword of the Elvish King becomes a fan favorite, through it's actions and adventures in the hands of characters in this world, I would dearly love to see a Fableblades version of that sword!  I know it would likely cost an arm and a leg, but turning something from fantasy into reality would be worth every penny! Anyway, I like the way this is progressing and I think there's a role for just about anyone who wants to participate to do so, either in design, story, or customization! |
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Post by dchisenh on Jul 9, 2017 17:28:35 GMT
I forgot to add, I like the idea of all of those major plotlines happening at the same time! You could choose to set your short story in the middle of one of those events, but have it occur in the background..such as having your character take an old seldom used mountain trail because the Empire is on the march and have seized the main pass, and it's on that trail you discover an over grown crypt entrance! And Paul, after looking at that Celtic sword in a higher resolution than my cellphone, it kinda looks like there is some bronze/copper coloration to the spaces between the iron bars on the guard, am I seeing that correctly? |
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ramses1079
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It puts the lotion in the basket
Posts: 549
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Post by ramses1079 on Jul 9, 2017 18:17:09 GMT
I'm really liking how the story-telling aspect of this project is coming along! I think as Paul starts to detail the settings (geographical references, general cultures, a few key characters like a lich king and the Empire), it would be easier for people to flesh out the details on their character's backstory and give us a population of characters to work with. I would suggest that since the sword design aspect of this is over (at least the first submission opportunity, so I hope more will come along, especially for other weapons, like daggers, maces, axes, polearms, etc.) that those who either didn't submit a design because they missed the deadline or just aren't skilled enough to do so, be encouraged to create a character in this universe Paul is molding. Perhaps at the time of their backstory they don't have a 'signature' weapon or it's just generic, like a basic kopesh or longsword, but maybe there can be a thread for folks to design their character(s) and allow them to contribute directly to this project. Personally, I would like to see either a dedicated thread or subforum where folks could create a post on their character, starting with their backstory using sort of like a sword review-type template, then be able to continue the thread with either a running storyline (that others could join in, if invited or allowed) or small short stories to create a living atmosphere for this world. Those who are interested could perhaps even use a dedicated "shout box" or a third party chat service, like Discord or something like that, to set a dedicated time for an event, allowing folks with characters to show up if they're interested (kind of like a board announcement like "Saturday, April 5th at 9pm EST, on Discord channel "SBG Stories" an earthquake will trigger a landslide that reveals ancient ruins at the Thunderhaven Mountains"). If the person creating the event wants to act in a 'dungeon master' way to help direct it, the transcripts of the event can be used to flesh out an actual short story that can be reposted here for everyone to enjoy. It's safe to assume there's overlap between the general sword-buying community and fantasy/RPG/D&D-type community, I'm betting something like this could bring in even more folks to this hobby and this site! Now, as far as making this world as user and idea-friendly as possible, I would suggest two things for the general structure of this world: 1) as this is a sword forum, magic use be kept at a minimum. Magic use in fantasy is essential, so it definitely has a place, but I'd suggest it not be overpowering or too fantastical in it's use, for example, being able to call down a meteor to level a mountain or call upon a literal army of 100,000 zombies. 2) and since magic is hard to define, I'd suggest a basic tenant be that the root of all magic come from a user's soul/essence/will/etc. manipulating the fabric of reality. This allows for a user to either possess this talent innately or through rigorous training, a special event, etc. while also allowing for a very, very wide range of 'types' of magic. For example, a monk character could train for years in a monastery to learn to move objects with his mind allowing for a telekinetic type magic, a young pyromancer could just be born with the ability to control/create fire but at the basis of it is their 'will' exciting molecules to such a high energy state they burst into flame and their ability to control that energy state as their 'pyromancy'...allowing a traditional 'mage' character to also be able to do the same thing, but though study and practice. Within the framework of Sevicler's magic structure, the Anima Mae/Animal Vestra could be thought of as 'using' your soul/essence/will to perform higher powered reality manipulation, in the vein of 'matter and energy are neither created or destroyed', you're converting some of your energy to perform this feat, which is a non-infinite resource. Likewise, having this type of soul/essence/will manipulation of reality as the basis for 'magic', it's open to anyone's interpretation of use. Some could take a traditional 'studious mage in his tower reading ancient tomes and scrolls' method or a chance interaction with a god/angel/demon/ghost/object/etc 'awakening' this ability, or just being born with it. Likewise, it's open to every group/culture/individual to define those abilities in whatever system they see fit...so Sevicler's system could be how his character or group could define 'magic' while someone else's character could come from a culture that defines 'magic' differently, or even thinks it's all the same and 'there is no magic'! Also, back in the realm of sword creation, in addition to the winners of this contest leading to several particular sword lines for creation and sale, I'd like to see a few 'base' models of examples a particular culture would use. Like a 'standard issue' kopesh for the lich king's zombies, or a simple gladius for the Empire. The sneak peek at the "Celtic Sword" looks like a base model dwarven sword to me! It has a sort of 'industrial' look to the hilt that seems like it could fit that role nicely. Engraving some runes or plating the pommel or guard in copper would look awesome! In that same vein, I'd love to see some more forum participation from the wealth of talent we have here, perhaps leading to some collaborations for customization where possible. Perhaps a small subset of swords, as a "Special SBG-line" where a bare blade could be sent to a forum member for assembly using a small batch of parts and along with a customized scabbard/belt system....for example, a batch of 20 basic leaf blades sent to someone along with a small order of 20 sets of 3-D printed guards, pommels, and grips to fit them and then assembled by that person in either a standard leather wrap with matching belt and scabbard or for an extra fee some more customization like choice of leather color, etching, etc...whatever the assembler can do. The bladesmiths would get a set commission for that batch, the 3-D printer would get a set commission for that batch of fittings and the assembler would receive a commission to assemble the swords/scabbard/belt and a bit on top if their asked to further customize it. Having the SBG store coordinate the commission of blades and 3-D components by doing a pre-sale after having lined up an assembler here would make it fairly easy for all parties! Another option could be a "SBG Masterpeice" line, where Paul could commission a particular popular design, something that grows to prominence as the world and story develops, as a small line or 1-off creation from start to finish by one of our talented manufactures here in the forum! Allowing them to make some creative embellishments, like etching, inlays, etc. to create a true masterpiece that could either be sold for a set price or even auctioned! Let's say for example the Sword of the Elvish King becomes a fan favorite, through it's actions and adventures in the hands of characters in this world, I would dearly love to see a Fableblades version of that sword! I know it would likely cost an arm and a leg, but turning something from fantasy into reality would be worth every penny! Anyway, I like the way this is progressing and I think there's a role for just about anyone who wants to participate to do so, either in design, story, or customization! Awesome idea!!😉 |
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ramses1079
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It puts the lotion in the basket
Posts: 549
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Post by ramses1079 on Jul 9, 2017 18:18:42 GMT
It's still not fair that people can use computer drawing system, when everyone else entered hand drawn ideas! I'd have to disagree. I too couldn't use a computer drawing system if my life depended on it but if the contest was for storytelling, would it matter whether I typed the story, hand wrote the story and photoed it or invested the time to make a video of it me reading the story ? You must take into consideration the folks who submitted computer drawn entries also invested the time to learn those systems so in all honesty they have spent more time on their submissions then those of us who didn't. To a point I see what you mean, but your talking semantics. Would an Art Museum allow a computer "aided" drawing into their hallowed halls?. |
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ramses1079
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It puts the lotion in the basket
Posts: 549
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Post by ramses1079 on Jul 9, 2017 18:19:34 GMT
It's still not fair that people can use computer drawing system, when everyone else entered hand drawn ideas! I'd have to disagree. I too couldn't use a computer drawing system if my life depended on it but if the contest was for storytelling, would it matter whether I typed the story, hand wrote the story and photoed it or invested the time to make a video of it me reading the story ? You must take into consideration the folks who submitted computer drawn entries also invested the time to learn those systems so in all honesty they have spent more time on their submissions then those of us who didn't. To a point I see what you mean, but your talking semantics. Would an Art Museum (and before you try and say "this ISN't an art museum" its the sentiment behind the matephor) allow a computer "aided" drawing into their hallowed halls? And if your answer is NO......which it should be......why would an "art" competition be any less stringent?? It doesn't make YOUR drawing look any "less" special (or pathetic) next to a PERFECTLY computer drawn sword? |
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Ifrit
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More edgy than a double edge sword
Posts: 3,284
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Post by Ifrit on Jul 9, 2017 21:21:36 GMT
I'd have to disagree. I too couldn't use a computer drawing system if my life depended on it but if the contest was for storytelling, would it matter whether I typed the story, hand wrote the story and photoed it or invested the time to make a video of it me reading the story ? You must take into consideration the folks who submitted computer drawn entries also invested the time to learn those systems so in all honesty they have spent more time on their submissions then those of us who didn't. To a point I see what you mean, but your talking semantics. Would an Art Museum (and before you try and say "this ISN't an art museum" its the sentiment behind the matephor) allow a computer "aided" drawing into their hallowed halls? And if your answer is NO......which it should be......why would an "art" competition be any less stringent?? It doesn't make YOUR drawing look any "less" special (or pathetic) next to a PERFECTLY computer drawn sword? Might have to disagree. Digital art is pretty new, so it is kinda frowned upon in many aspects of the art community, but is also embraced in others. I used to do digital art, but I would feel at a disadvantage using a program to make my pieces, as I am just more adjusted to drawing by hand with a pencil or ball point pen. Sure you can get in colours and use vectors, but you could do that same by hand too (for example, you could use the spine of a hard cover book as a straight line vector, not to mention use a mirror to compare sides for symmetry). I don't have the advantage of adding rich colours (though I could change that if I bought myself pencil crayons), but I just prefer doing things by hand with shading as it's my favourite medium. I don't feel at a disadvantage for doing so though. The place I feel at a disadvantage for is story writing. I'm not too creative haha. But I could always chip in some art for the world Not trynna start anything tho. Just saying that drawing by hand isn't always a disadvantage. But would a museum allow digital art? Maybe in the future. But I dunno if there would be a lot of point attempting to preserve a piece that can be easily printed off if ruined. But who knows. There's all kinds of innovations around the corner |
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Alan Schiff
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Post by Alan Schiff on Jul 9, 2017 22:25:34 GMT
Some good stuff so far! I'd like to make a note about technological stasis: if it works, why fix it? There's no reason to reinvent the wheel. The Roman legions were extremely effective for a long period of time using mostly the same weapons and tactics. Rome fell mostly due to political struggles, not outdated military technology.
The Empire in this world would be much the same. Basic infantry units can be made up of legionnaires with a scutum, pilum, and gladius. A long-conquered city-state provides horses for cavalry units that wield lances and longer swords (spatha, riding swords, whatever term we want to use).
Likely armor would be updated as time goes on, although something to think about is what types of armor are common at this time. It doesn't make much sense for one nation/faction to use only leather or textile armor, or even maille, if full plate harnesses are present and common in another.
About the Dead Lands: I like the idea that the Lich King is more of a neutral monarch. If he (and his necromancy) were truly evil, I wouldn't expect much in the way of living humans, or other races, to still reside there after a couple thousand years. They'd either all have fled or been killed at some point. Perhaps, rather than believing in an afterlife, they believe that when life ends, it's oblivion. Therefore, when a person dies, the priests of the Lich King perform a rite that animates the body in undeath. These undead can serve as guards, servants, soldiers, laborers, etc. alongside the living. Maybe the Lich King himself holds title to all undead, but they can be purchased for enough coin, and the wealthy buy them because they don't need to sleep, can't be corrupted, and don't have to be paid or fed.
I like the idea of the "prophecy" being Empire propaganda to incite its citizens against the Dead-landers(?). We then have a whole war-oriented plot-line without the usual "good vs. evil," world-shattering event, and other plot-lines and stories can be just as important and far-reaching.
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Post by Vincent Dolan on Jul 9, 2017 23:12:32 GMT
About the Dead Lands: I like the idea that the Lich King is more of a neutral monarch. If he (and his necromancy) were truly evil, I wouldn't expect much in the way of living humans, or other races, to still reside there after a couple thousand years. They'd either all have fled or been killed at some point. Perhaps, rather than believing in an afterlife, they believe that when life ends, it's oblivion. Therefore, when a person dies, the priests of the Lich King perform a rite that animates the body in undeath. These undead can serve as guards, servants, soldiers, laborers, etc. alongside the living. Maybe the Lich King himself holds title to all undead, but they can be purchased for enough coin, and the wealthy buy them because they don't need to sleep, can't be corrupted, and don't have to be paid or fed. Ooh, that's a good idea. However, instead of purchasing them, I think leasing them would make more sense. Have it written into a contract that the listed undead are to be remanded into the custody of the leaseholder for the duration of the undersigned's life, but the Lich King retains all titles to the undead so they can be called up in the event of an invasion. You could then have a clause regarding re-negotiations following the original leaseholder's demise, where their heir has to pay a certain amount to keep the leased undead or they return to the control of the Lich King. This isn't too dissimilar from tenant farming, after all, so it has parallels to the real world and I can't imagine too many monarchs willingly letting their nobles, who may have designs on their throne, have access to a virtually unlimited amount of troops like that, at least in a society where there's a central army instead of levies from nobility. |
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Post by demonskull on Jul 10, 2017 1:53:07 GMT
About the Dead Lands: I like the idea that the Lich King is more of a neutral monarch. If he (and his necromancy) were truly evil, I wouldn't expect much in the way of living humans, or other races, to still reside there after a couple thousand years. They'd either all have fled or been killed at some point. Perhaps, rather than believing in an afterlife, they believe that when life ends, it's oblivion. Therefore, when a person dies, the priests of the Lich King perform a rite that animates the body in undeath. These undead can serve as guards, servants, soldiers, laborers, etc. alongside the living. Maybe the Lich King himself holds title to all undead, but they can be purchased for enough coin, and the wealthy buy them because they don't need to sleep, can't be corrupted, and don't have to be paid or fed. Ooh, that's a good idea. However, instead of purchasing them, I think leasing them would make more sense. Have it written into a contract that the listed undead are to be remanded into the custody of the leaseholder for the duration of the undersigned's life, but the Lich King retains all titles to the undead so they can be called up in the event of an invasion. You could then have a clause regarding re-negotiations following the original leaseholder's demise, where their heir has to pay a certain amount to keep the leased undead or they return to the control of the Lich King. This isn't too dissimilar from tenant farming, after all, so it has parallels to the real world and I can't imagine too many monarchs willingly letting their nobles, who may have designs on their throne, have access to a virtually unlimited amount of troops like that, at least in a society where there's a central army instead of levies from nobility. I like Alan's idea for a different reason. Imagine all those undead in the houses of the wealthy and one night they all attack their masters at the behest of the Lich King. What a way to start a war ! |
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Post by Urbanswordsman on Jul 10, 2017 1:54:55 GMT
I like the idea of the Badlands being some kind of lawless wasteland ruled by various factions. What would be interesting is if there were a great number of different nomadic tribes in a constant power struggle and state of flux, all vying for control and resources. We could probably create distinct names and descriptions for each of them to make it feel like a real war zone between factions.
Being in the center of the map, there are probably a few "safe" paths and places maintained by the empire or the other groups to pass through it, kind of like the Kingsroad from Game of Thrones.
Another aspect is that it would be perfect for exiling criminals not dangerous for jail or execution, but not petty enough for a small punishment. It could also be a second option for those condemned for execution, as it provides a small chance of survival despite the high chances of being murdered or dying of exposure to the elements.
The Badlands could also have some resources that are rare and valued in the civilized parts of the world, such as rare minerals used for medicine or alchemy that would require merchants to hire those with the skill and fortitude (or not) to venture out into the wasteland to retrieve them. This would also create a market for those strong or willing enough to try their luck at either striking it rich or (more likely) ending up dead.
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Post by demonskull on Jul 10, 2017 2:15:56 GMT
I like the idea of the Badlands being some kind of lawless wasteland ruled by various factions. What would be interesting is if there were a great number of different nomadic tribes in a constant power struggle and state of flux, all vying for control and resources. We could probably create distinct names and descriptions for each of them to make it feel like a real war zone between factions. Being in the center of the map, there are probably a few "safe" paths and places maintained by the empire or the other groups to pass through it, kind of like the Kingsroad from Game of Thrones. Another aspect is that it would be perfect for exiling criminals not dangerous for jail or execution, but not petty enough for a small punishment. It could also be a second option for those condemned for execution, as it provides a small chance of survival despite the high chances of being murdered or dying of exposure to the elements. The Badlands could also have some resources that are rare and valued in the civilized parts of the world, such as rare minerals used for medicine or alchemy that would require merchants to hire those with the skill and fortitude (or not) to venture out into the wasteland to retrieve them. This would also create a market for those strong or willing enough to try their luck at either striking it rich or (more likely) ending up dead. Some of those criminals could be used as forced labor to mine/harvest the rare resources. |
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I know it would likely cost an arm and a leg, but turning something from fantasy into reality would be worth every penny!
