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Post by admin on Jul 14, 2017 5:38:05 GMT
 ORIGINAL SPECS AND DESCRIPTION (Designers initial notes and description):The desert regions further to the west of the Aleutian Empire and beyond the Aru Sea were the homelands of the Escian People. Unusual for a desert, these lands were fertile and rich with minerals, ripe for mining. By all rights, the Escians should have become a prosperous country, but that dream was long shattered by the Agrabinta Empire. The Agrabintas ruled over the Escians for over 300 years, imposing heavy tax and unreasonable laws upon its people, all in the name of mercantilism. Rebellions broke out frequently, sometimes decades apart. However, there was one common element shared in each rebellion; The Castir. The first Castir blades were invented before Escia had a name, when the deserts were still young and smaller than it is today. These early Castir blades were most often used on horseback, making full use of its long blade, curvature, and twin edges. These blades were worn on the waist with the outer curve facing downward. The edge facing the inner curvature is only sharpened around ¾ of the blade’s length (designer’s note: unokubi-zukuri katana style. Though similar to a real-life katana, the Castir was never meant for quick-drawing). This extra edge, which would not normally be sharpened in any other curved swords, is used to execute enemies of the Escians by slitting their throats while the edge facing outwards is used to behead. The Castir quickly became known as a brutal executioner’s weapon, thus earning its moniker, the Beheader. Early Castirs were made from folded steel and although examples of differentially hardened Castirs exist, they are rare and have only been in the ownership of wealthy or important individuals. One such individual is Akira Kosakami, who owns one of the earliest Castirs ever forged, made of folded steel using techniques both mundane and magical that is now lost to time. This blade is enhanced by some of the most powerful archmages in the world for a single purpose; to kill Akira. Suffice to say, that attempt had failed and the blade became a part of her collection. Modern day Castirs are forged using modern methods and materials without regard for tradition. So long as it looks and functions like a Castir, it’s a Castir. The Castir didn’t evolve much in its centuries of combat life. It is a perfect blade for use by the Escians thanks to their relatively level terrain and to make full use of their expertise in horseback warfare. The Castir also finds itself amongst foot soldiers just as often as cavalrymen, though the Castirs made for footsoldiers are often slightly shorter and thicker to make them easier to wield and tougher. An effective slashing and chopping weapon, Castirs reigned supreme in a time when iron and chainmail armor were relatively rare. Even when iron armor were more common Castirs simply became thicker and wider. Its wielders would slice at an armored opponent’s joints between the plates, where chainmail offers limited defense. A Castir was used by the Colamandalan blademaster Akassir during the Siege of Avolire. Akassir wielded his Castir against the legendary Swordsage Mura in their famous duel. Though Akassir lost, the defeat was not attributed to the blade, rather to the skill and stamina of their wielders. Mura’s victory was the result of his experience, not the quality of the blades. The presence of Castirs amongst the Colamandalan ranks suggest that Escia is actively involved in their rebellion against the Aleutians. The Castir pictured above is one of many swords owned by Akassir. He had requested the sword and fittings built according to his skills and preferences. It is 40 inches long. While sheathed, its length is 44 inches. The handle’s length is 12 inches while the blade from tip to base is 28 inches long. The blade weighs just over 1kg, fully fitted. The handle is wooden and wrapped in cord, sometimes also with rayskin. This particular blade had no rayskin on its handle nor was it differentially hardened. A Castir’s sheath is most often made of leather or wood, though leather sheaths are more common because it is cheaper to produce. Total length: around 44 inches variable (with sheath) 40 inches without sheath Blade length: 28 inches Handle length: 12 inches
INITIAL THOUGHTS:Basic style is reminiscent of a Kogarasu Zukuri Katana/Naginata blade hybrid. Has many Katana like elements, so the Katana should be the basis for this swords construction. TECHNICAL QUESTIONS UNANSWERED:
Not entirely sure what is happening in the middle of the sword between the blade and the handle, so will need a picture from another angle on this component. What kind of scabbard should this have? I don't think a wooden one suits it - simple and close fitting leather might be best. The 'ito' wrap - should this be leather in a 'battle wrap' style? Should the blade be differentially hardened? Assuming the false edge is sharpened, would make for a versatile cutter. BACKGROUND STORY EXPANSION:It is pretty much perfect as is, but the story is heading in the direction that the Escians who wield this sword are strongly influenced by oriental culture, though ethically they are probably the same or closer to the Imperials (a good analogy might be the Romans compared to the Greeks). They follow the meditative religion of Lhasa (think Zen Buddhism) and have strong trade ties to Lhasa and the distant eastern island chain that is not on the map yet but is based roughly on Japan. |
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sevicler
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Post by sevicler on Jul 14, 2017 7:49:18 GMT
Hello Paul, and thanks again for selecting one of my submissions as the winner of this contest. So right now, I'm gonna answer your questions regarding this sword: 1. This is what is happening between the handle and the blade (or at least, the closest representation):  The tsuba in this picture is actually a part of the blade. In the Castir, the tsuba is instead a part of the Habaki. From above it looks like a six-petalled lotus flower. However, the sharp pointy bits that could endanger the wielder's wrist in the Castir is not present. 2. This scabbard would be perfect for the blade:  This is the scabbard of a Dacian Falx, made of leather. If possible, I want the scabbard to have a Tachi Koshirae's Ashi (hangers) pictured below:  Or one of those really cool interlaced belt scabbards, but on a curved sword:  Whichever is possible, of course. 3. The 'ito' wrap should be leather. Battle-wrap style or this one from the movie '47 Ronin':  Adding rayskin would be really nice 4. The blade should be differentially hardened, in a Choji or Sanbon-Sugi pattern. The false edge is sharpened. I specified this in the story, too; "This extra edge, which would not normally be sharpened in any other curved swords, is used to execute enemies of the Escians by slitting their throats while the edge facing outwards is used to behead. The Castir quickly became known as a brutal executioner’s weapon, thus earning its moniker, the Beheader."Choji:  Sanbon-Sugi:  Something like this would also look really good:  Again, thank you so much for selecting my sword as one of the winners. If possible, could you specify what you want to do with Escia, Temple Nimbus, and Notarikon? I just want to be clear on the differences between the story I already wrote and the fantasy world you designed so that I can write a better history for this sword and eventually my own story in the fantasy world we all built. Sorry for the apparently random photos I uploaded to this thread. I currently don't have the time nor energy to draw. After all, who would've expected that a 19-year-old college student from an unknown country called Indonesia somehow earned 4th place in an international sword design competition..? |
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Post by admin on Jul 14, 2017 12:09:06 GMT
Thanks for the clarification, I will be going over all the design features with BCI over the following days and if we need any additonal clarification on anything we will let you know.
With regards to Escia, Temple Nimbus and Notarikon (and Coronotite, we have been debating on the name elsewhere but I think this steel should be the same steel used to make the Imperial Gladii) - Escia will exist as a militant city state at war with the Empire who follow the warrior monk religion of Lhasa. They should be a proud and tough people, like a mix of Spartan with Japanese warrior ethics.
From my understanding of Noktorikon and Temple Nimbus, both were the flying citadel and the city of the Deathless witch respectively and both are now in ruins. When they were put on the map, I did not realize they were ruined - but locations on the map are not yet fixed in place, so can be moved.
If Nokorikon is indeed a lost city, a general indication of where it was can be marked or described on the world map. And I assume Temple Nimbus crashed into the ground somewhere so has probably left a nice ruins and crater.
We will also want to identify what year in the timeline the Silent Alliance event occured. The Empire was founded 1030 years ago as a reference (current year is 1030 IMperial Age).
Finally, I will be including the island chain to the South East on a seperate map - and below them East of Lhasa an archipelico of warring states based on Fuedal Japan (and assume that the Deathless witch was originally from there - you may wish to rename her as Akira is a guys name, maybe Akemi is a good substitute).
So yes, if you can clarify the date of the Silent Alliance event and mark or describe the current locations of the ruined temple and city on the world map that would be awesome.
Really do appreciate your contributions and designs, you are quite multitalnted and at only 18 will go far in life I think!
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Post by dchisenh on Jul 14, 2017 14:27:37 GMT
So, of all four winners, I'll likely buy this one first because it is so unique.
I agree the falx scabbard Sev pointed out would work really well for a sword like this. It's fairly simple and utilitarian, but is practical for this blade. The more elaborate Japanese style ones could be part of a "Masterpiece" line while the basic leather one could be a way to keep cost down.
Like mentioned in the Vorpal blade, point execution will be crutial for this sword too. It's gotta be visually intimidating and needs to be as acute as possible!
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Post by sevicler on Jul 14, 2017 14:34:23 GMT
Regarding the city of Notarikon and Temple Nimbus: From my understanding of Noktorikon and Temple Nimbus, both were the flying citadel and the city of the Deathless witch respectively and both are now in ruins. When they were put on the map, I did not realize they were ruined - but locations on the map are not yet fixed in place, so can be moved. Notarikon: It's actually not a flying city  . Notarikon is the center of magic in my story. It is also the only city that was ruined during the disaster. Its ruins is the perfect place for aspiring explorers to try and find magical artifacts and tomes from a bygone era but the ruins are not exactly a safe place to be. Expect incorporeal enemies such as Wraiths and Specters and environmental hazards such as null zones that deactivate magic and random arc lightnings that can easily vaporize a knight. Notarikon should be located somewhere strategic, like in the middle of a trade route or somewhere everyone from everywhere can get to relatively easily. OR We could have the Empire rebuild Notarikon as THEIR magic capital. This could cause all manner of trouble as other nations once regarded Notarikon as neutral ground and not Imperial territory. (I'll develop this more, maybe have the Deathless Witch try to take back Notarikon from the Empire). Temple Nimbus: The flying city. Temple Nimbus isn't ruined and is actually constantly on the move. Its cruising altitude is around 3000ft while its max altitude is 13000ft. I designed Temple Nimbus as a high-level raid dungeon (not exactly a dungeon, more like a flying castle) with a difficulty level just under fighting dragons thanks to the Temple Nimbus Legionnaires (automatons that have incredible resistance against slashing weapons) and far more hazards (you can easily fall and die via traps or accidents) while promising any raiders with rare items and materials. Knowing the 'flight' spell and owning items that emulate flight should be highly recommended for anyone attempting to tackle Temple Nimbus. There are dragons/wyverns/flying mounts who offer their service to anyone attempting to get to Temple Nimbus. Coronatite should be what former citizens of Notarikon/tomes written in Notarikon refer to the 'Unobtainium' used by the Imperials. Maybe the Imperials managed to find so much Coronatite because they have several Notarikon tomes for reference. The Silent Alliance event should occur some 10 years before the story began. Its basically a failed assassination attempt on the Deathless Witch that happened after she stole a weapon from the Imperial National Treasury (in my story it was Velklir, my #3 sword). She didn't actually steal it; The Escians (swapped from Colamandala, my rebel island nation from my story) needed her help for a one-time-event (she might not have become an enemy of the Empire had they chose to ignore her.) and she requested that specific weapon taken from the treasury as payment. Of course, this pissed off the Emperor (in my story several nations allied to stop her) and he sent his best warriors with the best weapons and gear to try and kill her. Of the 24 people sent, 18 died. 6 made it out alive but they're all badly injured but actually managed to injure her and accidentally destroyed the weapon she 'stole'. The leader of the imperial heroes is missing without a trace, presumed dead. (note: this could be more interesting if the weapon she stole belonged to the 16-year-old crazy heir and he basically demanded his father to get it back, causing even MORE trouble for the Empire in the long run). After the event, the Deathless Witch allied herself with Escia against the Empire. Obviously, she became one of the Empire's most relentless foes (in the Empire, she's basically regarded as Osama bin Laden or Saddam Hussein. Outside the Empire, she's actually quite respected). The tale would be even more interesting if she found out years later (when the story began) that the heir ordered the assassination attempt on her. She would then demand the Emperor turn him over to her or she'll burn his Empire to the ground. This became one of the hardest decisions the Emperor would ever have to take in his life. On the Deathless Witch: (still a Work in Progress, may need a lot of suggestions and retcons) Akira's father, Masaru Kosakami, actually wanted a boy as his first child. When he found out that his wife was pregnant, he gave the child the name 'Akira' before knowing his/her gender. Shortly after giving the name (his wife was 3 months pregnant), he was called to help in the construction of Temple Nimbus and basically had to leave his wife for about 7 months. His wife decided to keep the name even though the baby was female, so the name kind of stuck. (Plus, she likes the name). In real life, she was named after the 1980s anime AKIRA. I designed Akira not as a main character, because she's way too powerful. She's one of the very few living beings who could take on the Lich King in a straight fight (The Lich King wins in pure magic power, but she's far more adaptable and versatile). She was designed as an antagonist or a hurdle that the protagonists cannot overcome using brute force or strength or maybe even a mentor that doesn't die. In a villainous role, she's scarily competent. She never once gives away any details about her plans, she always takes any opportunity to kill/stop the protagonists that present themselves and should the protagonists somehow managed to stop her, the method they used will not work twice as she would already develop counter-measures. She's also incredibly patient and calm, which helps her in the long run. She almost always fights in complete silence, never taunting her opponents nor answering their taunts. She's one of the world's premier masters of Anima Mea and Anima Vestra. This allows her to cross-train between magic categories and schools. In fact, when the story began, she's already mastered nearly all magic schools and is currently dabbling in Over-Tier magic and Biomancy (advanced magic schools). Her power does not break the magic system I've developed. (i'm still establishing the limits of her power). Unlike a villain, she often forgives any mistakes that her subordinates made (of course, should said subordinates make the same mistakes repeatedly she'll just give them another job instead of killing them). She also honors any agreement made and always keeps her end of the bargain, even if a situation develops where it'll be disadvantageous to her (although if said situation was engineered and she found out, woe betide anyone responsible). Of course, you'd have to be really lucky or desperate to try and strike a deal with her, as her price is incredibly high (that one time she asked for a national treasure? one of her cheapest fares, though her price depends on what one asks of her). She always prays for anyone she kills, to whoever god they worship (I haven't developed the possible implications it has on her Divine Magic spells and powers). Outside of combat or villainous roles, she's actually quite civil, polite and compassionate, and often helps people without pay. She also never shows off her power unless absolutely necessary. Traits that would often throw off any Imperial characters who had/has the (mis)fortune of actually meeting her. So basically; DO NOT MESS WITH AKIRA --------- Okay, that's about it. I'll happily read any feedback or suggestions. How do I mark the world map? just download the image and photoshop it? Note: Assuming the Deathless Witch is from Lhase/the unnamed island chain might actually make things interesting. I'm still developing a Lhase tale/legend that might explain the source of her incredible powers. It's about the Four Witches of the Cycle of Creation, representing Creation, Evolution, Destruction, and Innovation (well the cycle says 'opportunity' but it doesn't really rhyme). Or maybe the Three Witches of Creation, inspired by Hindu mythology (minus innovation).Obviously, she's Destruction. Of course, I can't develop this without solid info on the Island Chain, Lhase and the Warring States. |
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sevicler
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Post by sevicler on Jul 14, 2017 14:42:46 GMT
So, of all four winners, I'll likely buy this one first because it is so unique. I agree the falx scabbard Sev pointed out would work really well for a sword like this. It's fairly simple and utilitarian, but is practical for this blade. The more elaborate Japanese style ones could be part of a "Masterpiece" line while the basic leather one could be a way to keep cost down. Like mentioned in the Vorpal blade, point execution will be crutial for this sword too. It's gotta be visually intimidating and needs to be as acute as possible! Thanks again, Dan. You can actually use the Castir as a Katana or turn it backwards and it becomes a Rhomphaia |
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Post by LeMal on Jul 14, 2017 15:19:44 GMT
Very nice! I like this one very much. |
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Post by sevicler on Jul 14, 2017 15:43:41 GMT
Very nice! I like this one very much. Thank you so much  |
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Post by dchisenh on Jul 14, 2017 15:50:44 GMT
Very nice! I like this one very much. Yep, the proportions are really nicely done, it's uniqueness stands out, and it looks like it could be a nimble but very effective cutter that could be devastating in the thrust as well! I'd really like to get my hands on one of these! I think I'm going to re-write my character's backstory to have him use one of these since I like it so much! |
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Post by sevicler on Jul 15, 2017 4:06:37 GMT
Very nice! I like this one very much. Yep, the proportions are really nicely done, it's uniqueness stands out, and it looks like it could be a nimble but very effective cutter that could be devastating in the thrust as well! I'd really like to get my hands on one of these! I think I'm going to re-write my character's backstory to have him use one of these since I like it so much! Can't wait to read your character's description |
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Post by admin on Jul 17, 2017 7:06:39 GMT
Thanks for clarifying the backstory. I have amended the map with some of these details, Notorikon has been rebuilt - so stays in place along the Great Western Road, and Temple Nimbus is no longer on the map as it's location is not set..
I can see how the Escians would ally with her - they hate the empire and will ally with almost anyone to see it destroyed. Though the root of the war between the Escians is ancient - the Empire has been warring with them on and off for around 800 years and no matter what they try, cannot contain them or defeat them..
Anyway, I am happy to submit the design to the forge with your notes on the sword itself and will let you know if they come back with any questions. I have a feeling this unique design is going to be very popular if it is made as we hope it will be..
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Post by sevicler on Jul 18, 2017 6:40:31 GMT
Well I hope you didn't rush submitting the specs to the forge. Because I've just improved the Castir's design: With Hamon:  Without Hamon:  Now it has a functional ricasso. Any colour scheme can be requested (In the following format: Tsuka, Ito, Habaki, Habaki geometric lines). The ones above are my personal preferences. The tsuka is wrapped entirely in black rayskin. The Habaki is golden. The Ito is maroon and battle-wrapped. The scabbard should be black or dark red leather. I'd also like to edit the sword's specifications: Blade length (to base of habaki): 28-30 inches Habaki length: around 3-5 inches Tsuka/handle length: 12-14 inches Overall length: 43-49 inches |
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Post by admin on Jul 19, 2017 9:25:02 GMT
Oops, I submitted the original design to the forge a couple of hours before this post was made..
While I like the revised design - the original will still work really well. There may be a few subtle changes here and there, will keep you updated as soon as I hear back from the forge.
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Post by sevicler on Jul 19, 2017 9:31:32 GMT
Oops, I submitted the original design to the forge a couple of hours before this post was made.. While I like the revised design - the original will still work really well. There may be a few subtle changes here and there, will keep you updated as soon as I hear back from the forge. You could just send the new design to the forge, right? I realized too late that the original design had sharp pointy bits that could endanger the user. Also, I can give you the PSD if you want to color the Castir. Oh and Paul, could you read the email I sent you a couple of days ago? Its kind of important. |
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Post by admin on Jul 20, 2017 4:32:31 GMT
No problems, I will send them this as an addendum so perhaps it will be a hybrid between the two. Also added in a few options to the forge on some different ways to execute the design so it is a "Katana, but not a Katana"..
And yup, I just responded to your email - I always get a ton of email so unless something is super urgent can take some time to get to them all. ;-)
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Post by sevicler on Jul 22, 2017 17:50:43 GMT
No problems, I will send them this as an addendum so perhaps it will be a hybrid between the two. Also added in a few options to the forge on some different ways to execute the design so it is a "Katana, but not a Katana".. And yup, I just responded to your email - I always get a ton of email so unless something is super urgent can take some time to get to them all. ;-) I've sent another email to your account. However, this one is very urgent and contains quite a few questions regarding subjects such as intellectual property and the possibility of monetization. Could you have a quick read through as soon as possible? It'll also be really nice if you could give feedback on the magic system on its own thread. Thank you. |
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Post by sevicler on Jul 26, 2017 15:21:20 GMT
A design I have for the scabbard. I'll color this someday. Just a preview for now. This is the version with the Tachi-Ashi.  |
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Post by onekelvin on Aug 1, 2017 15:39:21 GMT
Tenno skooom. =P
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sevicler
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Post by sevicler on Aug 1, 2017 15:51:04 GMT
Hahahaha Fellow warframe player? Kinda reminds you of the Skana or the Nikana, eh? |
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Post by onekelvin on Aug 2, 2017 15:10:28 GMT
Hahahaha Fellow warframe player? Kinda reminds you of the Skana or the Nikana, eh? What, you mean this Nikana?  No, no, no. Never crossed my mind.  (Rambda klamda.) |
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. Notarikon is the center of magic in my story. It is also the only city that was ruined during the disaster. Its ruins is the perfect place for aspiring explorers to try and find magical artifacts and tomes from a bygone era but the ruins are not exactly a safe place to be. Expect incorporeal enemies such as Wraiths and Specters and environmental hazards such as null zones that deactivate magic and random arc lightnings that can easily vaporize a knight. Notarikon should be located somewhere strategic, like in the middle of a trade route or somewhere everyone from everywhere can get to relatively easily.
