[PF-1e] The Forsaken Plane: The Plane of The Elder Evils

[pianoman90]

[Xian]

Team,

For those that completed the Phase I app, you should have received a PM from me with the link to the Phase 2 - Session 1. The instructions are listed in the starter post and the objectives for the session. If there are questions or points that need clarification, please post them here for all to benefit from because all applicants will eventually need to end up there.

Additionally, some questions and thoughts from the response to my review that I thought would be worth sharing:

If they don't know of the existence of Elder Evils, why are we on a quest to stop them? That doesn't make sense to me.

The simplest answer is you are not... at least not at the moment. If the group uncovers the existence of the Elder Evil, it will be during the game and much later in the campaign. As mentioned, except for the rare few, the majority of the denizens of the Forsaken Planes are and will remain blissfully ignorant of the Plane's true nature.

Also this brings up another subtle point, since the majority of you are Outworlders. No one comes to or seeks out the Forsaken Plane, they are taken there by The Powers. The Powers chooses on their capricious whims those they snatch from the Outworlds and for their own mysterious and inscrutable reasons.

I strongly adhere to the Keith Baker perception of alignment.

As I state in my views of alignment, asides from playing a mechanical role in how certain powers, spells, and things affect the character, alignment should be a descriptor for the character's tendencies, which may I clarify is not the same as dictating the character's behavior. As such it should be a guide to you character's behavior and consistent with how you envision playing the character. In this case, it is more for communicating to me and the other players on the basic tendencies of your character. So in short, do not feel alignment is a constraint to your behavior but more of a way to communicate and describe how you behave in general to me and the others.

Hope that helps!

Onward!

Cheers, Xian

[suburbanplankton]

[MalchiorTheForgotten]

[pianoman90]

[Xian]

Team,

Some questions that have come up that is pertinent to all.

One more quick question-the characters are fully aware that they are in the forsaken planes now, yes?

A: Outworlder characters are aware that they are no longer in Kansas as the saying goes, but they do not know that they are in a place called the Forsaken Plane or the nature of the place. Those that are native, there is nothing out of the ordinary.

Would you like me to go back and edit the original post, or are you considering Phase 2 to 'be 'starting from scratch', so that I should just work any changes into the story as it progresses there?

Some or all of the above. The intent of Phase 2 is to build off and adjust your character app you built in Phase 1. How you track the changes is up to you at this point, but should you get selected for the game, then my expectation is that your character thread contains all of the adjustments and backstory in a coherent and understandable narrative.

Can't wait to see what you guys bring to Phase 2! Onward!

Cheers, Xian

[Xian]

Team,

First of all, I appreciate all of those that have taken the dive and got the Phase 2 part of the application process rolling!

Second, I am fully aware that I am taking a risk of sort with the unorthodox approach that I have taken and it is probably not for everyone. My hope is that what I may not have in terms of quantity, I will make up for in quality based on the level of engagement by you the interested players. (Did I tell you I was a player centric DM? ) However, given the novelty of the approach, I just wanted to help clarify a few things.

With 2-3 weeks left until selection, the interactive nature of Phase 2 sessions is intended help people stay engaged with the atmosphere, but most importantly with the other players. It will show me who works or communicates well with who and understands the atmosphere of the game. So in many ways, the players themselves play a tremendous role in who gets selected.

Ergo, the intent of Phase 2 is for the players to respond to EACH other, not to the DM. My intent is to minimize my responses to only what is necessary. This scene is a social for a reason. No insidious plots. (Yet. ) So you do not have to wait for a DM post to respond or post again. Post when you feel the need to and each post does NOT have to be a novel or your entire life story. As with the initial app, the expectation is not flesh out and share EVERYTHING about your characters, but enough that it gets other players interested and responding to you and vice versa. Digestible bits, to keep it interesting.

One of the easiest ways to do this is to give an impression of the other characters as they introduce or have introduced themselves. Here is an example of impressions that I did as a part of the application process in another very successful game. I am simply aiming to replicate this, but instead of a stand alone table, I would like for this to occur as the characters interact with one another. It is also gives me insight in your posting habits and writing abilities.

(DM Hint: It helps to read the other player's app to get an idea of something that you could hook them with or write an impression about as well as use their actions in the thread itself.)

 

Makkari "Do you at this time, of your free will, submit to this questioning and swear to tell the whole truth, not conceal anything in related matters, or resist my "inquires"?" As the inquisitor administered the oath to Makkari. "I do." Makkari answered without hesitation. "So be it." The inquisitor responded as he weaved his spell and Makkari did not resist as the magic took hold as the inquisitor listened to his thoughts. "Then let us first start with your friends and "compatriots" here... as I say their names, give me the first thoughts to your mind and then your assessment of each of them..." Name Makkari's Impressions Felix "Ally. I am impressed with his fighting skill and strength of arm, a quality I am sorely lacking in comparison. While I do not doubt his heart is dedicated to the service to others based on the oaths that he has taken, it may be tangled with his personal desire to kill dragons. From what I can deduce from our conversations, the desire to kill dragons is not solely for vengeance or the cause of good, but so he can bring back proof as a means of initiation into an order of some sort. It makes me question whether he is here for the people of Trunau or for his own advancement and his specialization in dragons, while helpful, may limit him in combat when facing the more common and mundane foes in our area. Regardless, Felix has been a stout and reliable ally in combat and perhaps my concerns are unfounded." Valerius "Associate. The man named Valerius has both skill with the Art and the blade, wielding them in harmony, in defense of Trunau... for a small fee course. I often envy his ability to effortlessly weave spells while bring to bear his weapon with equal deadliness in combat. From his appearance and road worn finery, Valerius appears to be a disgraced or exiled noble of some sort. He speaks very little of the the time before... if fact he seems content on not talking most of the time. His principal interest in Trunau seems to be financial, so I can only speculate that his loyalty will only stretch as far as the money goes... which in combat can some times be problematic. Perhaps he wants the money so that he can take back what was taken from him... revenge. It is ironic to realize that revenge does not give back what was taken. Valerius chooses to carry this heavy burden on his own, but perhaps he will understand in time, that any burden may be shared... as long as our hearts are willing." Orrin "Ally. Orrin is an oread, one of the stone folk. This makes him distinctive enough, but he is also a druid with interesting views. Intellectually, I find his perspectives fresh and different from much of the main stream thought and there is great wisdom in his thoughts and our talks together. He is dedicated to not fighting the problem, but to find the imbalance in nature that he believes is the root source of the problem... my only caveat to that is that the ecology of some of our foes are not exactly... natural... or in the keeping with the natural order of things. Perhaps the answer does not lie in not just one of our perspectives, but in a combination of both. Yet, I find him reliable in battle, his motives clear, and I trust his honesty." Barnabus "Friend. I like him, very simply put. While many may question the legitimacy of his stories, that does not change the fact that they are fun and in fact, it may very well be the reason that they ARE fun. Asides from a remarkable ability to tell stories, Barnabus has excellent manners and is cultivated gentleman... much more than I am and perhaps I ever will be. And this is what really defines him in my eyes... not the in the sense of culture or refinement, but in his commitment to honor. So while he may go on about the sword of his ancestor, in my mind, it is really about honor and him reclaiming that honor. It is this honor along with his tenacity and savvy that makes me trust him in a fight by my side. Having said that, he does have a temper on him and his honor has gotten us into plenty of fights... unfortunately for him, I suck in a fist fight... fortunately for both of us, Osta is not." Asgeirr "Ally. The cleric of a mysterious one-eyed god that I and probably all of Trunau have never heard of. Still while I do not endorse or put any faith in his god, I can put faith in the ideal of his god. I am reminded when I speak with him of an old saying 'Some are afraid to die so they never begin to live'. This the real ideal that Asgeirr's faith endorses, to have to the courage in the face of death so that they can live... an immeasurable value in any battle regardless of the odds. It is this kind of courage that allows companies to defeat armies. It is something that the town of Trunau knows and lives with every day of it existence. 'Hail to the victorious dead!' we salute together to honor those fallen, not to celebrate death, but to celebrate that such men lived... and that in their memory we find the strength to live. This is what Asgeirr brings to the field of battle... the gift of life and I am proud to have him on our side though he may not live for Trunau like the rest of us." Sky "Friend. I have known Sky since she first came to the town, mostly hearing about her when father and I visited Trunau on patrols. Sad to say that even at seven, I think that she was ALWAYS bigger than me. Sky is friendly enough and well known in Trunau, no small part due to her relationship to her uncle, Tordec Livingstone. I have been told that she is not comfortable with magic... which explains why I get the glare when I get within eye shot. Which is okay, I am not going to force my way into the company of someone who clearly is not comfortable... it's respect... and also I respect that she can choke slam me with a single hand and not break a sweat. And I have heard that she has a temper too and I have no desire to confirm or deny that... I guess I would not see her at all really, if it wasn't for Osta and the orcs... Funny how that is. Anyway, seeing her in battle, makes me definitely NOT want to be on her bad side. Still it is a pleasure to see her smile..." Hrotha "Friend. Hrotha is another "old" friend from Trunau... based on the shocked expression when I first got here, it was fair bet that she did not recognize me from times I visited with my father. It was probably the uniform or most likely the attention was probably on my father. Hrotha is great friend and like many of the women here, very competitive. Unfortunately, I honestly admit that I don't really provide much of challenge to her in any of her interest areas, though they are source of great admiration from me. Perhaps that is why she doesn't talk to me that often. Anyway, she is great fighter and physically one of the most capable people I have ever met. What endears her to me though is that, in spite of outward appearances and her attempts to fit in and balance both of her heritages, she is real and genuine. A rare find in any time or circumstance... I am glad to call her friend." Eghan "Ally. Eghan is cut from the same cloth as Asgeirr, a people whose culture evolved around battle and facing of death as a part of life. That in and of itself makes them great fit for our struggle here. Where they differ is that while Asgeirr accomplishes what he does through his faith and ideals, Eghan accomplishes the same through his performances and charm, each potent in its own right. So like Barnabus, Eghan is fun to be around and I enjoy sharing his stories and company when we are not in mortal peril and all. He is also a solid fighter and shield mate who is able to inspire those fighting on the battlefield to greater physical acts and courage. Unfortunately, his inspiration heats the blood, which robs me of my real worth on the field of battle, my intellect and magic... having said that Osta has benefited more than one occasion from his exultations on the field of battle. While his intent and connection to Trunau is not developed, it is a hope that he does... and perhaps I can see us becoming friends in the future." Sophitia " Associate. Sophita is alluring, charming, and very beautiful. In appearance the epitome of a lady. She and I share the same hair colorist and love of magic. It is at this point where our similarities end. She appears to be out of place in Trunau as her beauty and talents and perceived sense of entitlement makes her more suited to court... any of them. Certainly not a war zone. The things that I have seen her do and how she employs her magic... honestly makes her difficult to trust with anything yet. Perhaps that will change in time, but for now a wary eye is should be kept on her... though other eyes have seemed to make their way to her as well. Still one cannot scoff at the potential of winning without ever swinging a weapon... though it is a dangerous gambit. Now where did I leave my spellbook...? I could have swore I had it with me..." Anders "Friend. Anders is in very many ways like a brother to me and we share many similarities in our beliefs, values, and commitments, especially to Trunau. Ever get punked by a Halfling? (laughs) Well I have and I have absolutely no shame in admitting it, since the halflings here much like most of the women boast exceptional physical condition which far outstrips my own. However, what I like the most in my time with Anders is his dedication to joy... with all of the sorrows that tends to befall us in Belkzen, this is something that is sorely needed. This is bolstered by Ander's gift of song, which not only inspires but he also uses to describes the soul and essence of those he meets... So when you hear your song from him, listen carefully... you may learn something." Kyra "Ally. Another very physically capable lady fighter... perhaps there is something in the water? (smiles) She is a traveler from far away... a Keleshite I believe by the look of her, but her freckles and other features suggest perhaps an intermingling... whatever it is, the result is breath-taking... both in appearance and ability. What Sky and Hrotha achieve with strength and pure athleticism, Kyra achieves with skill and speed... though it is difficult to say which has an advantage over the other. Yet all these remarkable women share the same steel in spirit and that much I know to be true and she from all observations appears to be kind and friendly. Like the other travelers that have come to help, it is still not known why she fights for Trunau or that she even fights for Trunau, now that you mention it, but the fact that she fights and fights well is good enough for the moment." Sittania "Ally. It appears that Trunau has very little to want in terms of beauty and even this Halfling is a testament to that. At first glance both in appearance and mannerism, it is hard not mistake her for perhaps a young elf child. Her temperament is much different from Anders and Barnabus, which makes me wonder because the halflings never appear to have as much on their shoulders as this one does... Still she is a very capable ally and solid fighter on the battlefield where she uses her agility, size, and skill in armor to admirable effect. Perhaps, she just requires a bit of time to open up and warm up. If anyone can bring out her inner Halfling it will be Cluttercuck and Anders... " The inquisitor jotted down some notes and rubbed his chin as he thought of the information that he has gathered before he considers Makkari as the spell ends and he stands up. "So do you really believe that you... they have a chance?" the inquisitor asked, though his tone seemed a bit different than from before. "I wouldn't be here, if I didn't, sir." Makkari replied simply as he rose, satisfied that he had answered honestly. "Then assume your post, Lieutenant." The inquisitor ordered. "I shall send my findings to High Command... but regardless of what comes back, good fortune to you and your friends and compatriots until then. Dismissed."

Anyway, just so people do not get the wrong idea about the Phase 2 aspect of this, it is truly a way for the players and the characters to interact socially with one another. I know that there is every reason in the 'verse not to, but where there is a will there is a way, as the saying goes! If selected, you guys are going to be together for a long time (theoretically) so might as well try to find some common ground now and see who works best with the other!

It is also place for you to try out stuff and see if it works for your character. If it doesn't don't feel bound to it, come up with some reason for it to go away. Like Vegas, what happens at the Dancing Elephant stays at the Dancing Elephant! (unless you don't want it too... )

I hope this helps to clarify a bit of what I am looking for. Keep communicating, so please do not hesitate to bring up any concerns or questions as this goes on. As I stared, my goal is to give you as players almost as much of a say in selection as me.

Onward!

Cheers, Xian

[Xian]

[Xian]

Team,

Just wanted to say great effort and work in the Phase 2 Thread. Also any OOC comments and collaboration put it here so that others can benefit if they join on the conversation.

I am very encouraged by what I see... it appears that you a committed to making this very difficult for me! So that is great!

If you have not received your share of the RPXP karma, it is only because there requisite 24 hours has not elapsed before I can give more out. It shall cometh...

Also while I did not think that PCB intended to approach Kallev, (or maybe he did) but I like where that is going! I see if a couple of other conversations post up before I put in a very small DM post to help facilitate what is going on.

Onward!

Cheers, Xian

[PopCultureBard]

Originally Posted by Xian

Also while I did not think that PCB intended to approach Kallev, (or maybe he did) but I like where that is going! I see if a couple of other conversations post up before I put in a very small DM post to help facilitate what is going on.

Actually, I did. I was concerned about that initially but I took the risk of not TTing her name in it and Kaylara picked up what I was putting down, which left me very pleased that it wasn't too vague. Now, to go follow up on that...

[OneDarkness]

I'll get a Raven post up today, was too busy yesterday with cooking and hosting, and shoveling way too much snow

[Digorig]

You DM, Xian, has NOT approved this message. Be a Rebel. @Everyone in Phase 2: There are a lot of us there, and lots going on. Without constant DM intervention to keep order, I have added a TAGS line to the top of my post (here) and suggest you do as well. The idea is from another site, but it helps greatly to not miss things. Just TAG anyone who YOU are interacting with in that post.

[Xian]

Originally Posted by Digorig

My name George Bus.... I mean Xian and I approve this message.

Also, yes there is a a lot going on, but I think that it replicates an actual party/social... except now instead of name tags you have these handy tags that Digs suggested.

I will type up a DM post to provide a little structure and recap, but this intent is that everyone gets to know one another. As per socials in real life it is not realistic try to engage everyone. You pick a few, strike up a conversation, share something for the players and characters alike and then move on. Try out new things. And like a real party, there are some that will be more difficult to draw out into conversation... that is what makes your interaction so intriguing and frankly fascinating to read!

Still name tags or tags up above are handy... also the TT tag method as to who specifically also works well if you are describing from IC in generalities. As a fail safe, you can also put it at the end in an OOC block to make sure.

Anyway, great energy and feedback from those as you try to sort through this craziness that I catapulted you into! Keep it up, my RPXP can't refresh fast enough!

Onward!

Cheers, Xian

[Xian]

Team,

Also as a personal note, I am very comfortable with you being a rebel and trying things that push the envelope with the intent to improve the game/story. Even, if you are out of the box, don't worry. DM's have omnipotent powers for a reason!

So get creative and innovative! Keep up the awesome work!

Cheers, Xian

[JonnyGulliver]

Ash Wullyums
Chaotic Good Half Orc
Gunslinger (Machinist) 3
From a Little Place called Urth
_________________________________________

Why Ash?
OH GOD. NOT AGAIN.

Accident?
Bad stuff happens when you read while on vacation. Especially Evil Books of the Dead your uncle just keeps lying around. It can be a real date-killer. (Get it? )

Fate?
Someone watching may have taken note that he can One-Man an entire army. Hopefully no one minds if they borrow him?






CONCEPT POINTS

• Lived in a world that valued science and mechanical physics. Extremely ignorant of cultures other than human
• His only experience with magic nearly killed him so he has an extreme disdain for magic in any form
• Grit is expressed in pure bravado; when the going gets tough his mind counteracts the insanity. Catch phrases are manditory
• He has terrible luck with women
• If he isn't covered head to toe in blood at least once a day, he's doing it wrong
• He has survived several horrifying ordeals thus far so he shows many signs of PTSD
• He is a bit of a mechanical genius. If the tools are not available he will invent something. Anything, really.
• This is not his first rodeo with Evil. Curiously, where ever he goes a Bad Ash seems to somehow manifest.

GOALS
1) Kick Ass
2) Chew Bubblegum

SERIOUS GOALS
1) Find out where the hell he is... Culture shock is a major obstacle when you come from a mundane world of reason to a demiplane of evil. He must learn to survive these harsh lands and find out what the deal is.
2)...And get the hell out! Stands to reason that he doesn't plan on staying long. He will do whatever it takes and spank some major booty along the way to find his way back to his own plane to gloat about his conquest. There will be Babes.

SECRETS
Known - To any that spend enough time with him, they discover that fact that Nash is actually a huge coward, in spite of his cocky personna
Known - Good and Bad are always at odds within him. When pushed too far he begins to babble incoherently.
Unknown - He "experimented" a lot on college. Less science, more flexible gender preferences
Unknown - He may inadvertently be his own grampaw

PEOPLE
Merlin - Though not on this plane, the legendary Merlin is the only being that has enough power to actually do something about his current predicament. Making him aware that Ash is in trouble is another matter entirely
Bad Ash - Everything Ash is plus Evil, minus the gun
Professor Knowby - The discoverer of the necromonicon, his death was violent and his punishment was to be doomed to wander as a spirit in the space in between worlds
Sam - A half deadite mini-me, this is the strangest version of his dark half, albiet an ally this time. Reabsorbed into his body (it was a weird chapter in his life. See; College) Sam's current status is in limbo.