Tales of Andora - medieval, fantasy, warfare, epic

[acinonyx]

Lowlands - Geography

This RP will take place in the part of the continent known commonly as the Lowlands. Protected by geographical barriers on all sides, the Lowlands has held human habitation since the dawn of time. Civilization and society arose here 10,000 years ago, as did metallurgy and writing centuries later.

To the north lies the impenetrable Faloon Forest, a thick carpet of trees and mountains that few venture into. The Faloon Forest is home to exotic beasts and plants, and have fueled the myths and legends of the Lowlands for eons.

To the west lies a vast desert called the Thur Desert. Apart from wandering nomadic people, the land is a hostile mass where temperatures rise and fall at the whims of nature.

To the south and east, the Arth Ocean surrounds the Lowlands. The Pearl Island archipelago lying to the southeast of the continent is home to a few humans who eke out an existence fishing and trading with the mainland whenever possible.

The largest river, the Erinelle, is the life-giving elixir of the Lowlands. It flows from one of the many mountains in the Faloon Forest and splits into five separate tributaries at the Erinelle Delta near the city of Andora, before mingling with the Arth Ocean.

The land around the Erinelle Delta is the most fertile in all the Lowlands, and thus is also the most heavily populated.

(I will try and post a map of the Lowlands soon.)

Lowlands - History

The first kingdoms of the Lowlands arose around 3000 years ago, though they were little more than chiefdoms at that time. With advances in metallurgy and writing, however, the power of the chiefs spread and multiplied, resulting in numerous arms races.

The most relevant part of history, however, begins 700 years ago, with the War of the Three Kingdoms. At that time, the Lowlands was segmented into three main political entities - the Bhu Kingdom, the Zorukan Kingdom and the Aapo Kingdom. Due to internecine rivalry and overlapping alliances, the three kingdoms were more or less in continuous warfare for close to Hundred years. This period saw the destruction of many ancient cities and monuments, in the loss of over a million lives and in political instability for decades.

The War of the Three Kingdoms ended with the complete victory of the Zorukan dynasty. The family exerted its control and influence across the Lowlands, securing the loyalty of various chieftains and warlords.

For more than 500 years, the vast Zorukan Empire provided a sense of stability and peace to the region, before stagnation and complacency took over. The Empire began to crumble under its own weight; bureaucracy was beginning to corrupt the foundations of the massive nation; and rebellion broke out everywhere.

For all practical purposes, the Empire is now no more. The Zorukan dynasty has been overthrown a century ago, the last Zorukan apprehended and executed by a group of peasants. Only the nation of Andora now remains as the illegitimate child of the Empire. From the chaos of civil war, the Elmond dynasty was able to secure the city of Andora and proclaim themselves the Lords of Andora. That kingdom has survived to this day, holding its own in a land rent apart by regular violence.

Lowlands - Kingdoms, political entities and other groups

Kingdom of Andora

Formed about 150 years ago, the Kingdom comprises the city of Andora, the Erinelle Delta region and the countryside around the Plains of Maredo to the north. The border, however, is not official and continues to expand slowly.

The current ruler of Andora is King Erimen al'Elmond. He is the great-grandson of King Artear al'Elmond, the first king of Andora.

The Andoran economy is largely dependent on farming and cattle-rearing. While rich mineral deposits lie in a land north of Andora, the kingdom has so far failed to secure the land from the various rebel groups that haunt the region.

Order of Riga

The Order is an organization of warrior-monks formed during the initial years of the Imperial Civil War. Originally formed to help the innocent victims of the senseless violence, the Order has grown large and powerful enough to pose a serious threat to the burgeoning Kingdom of Andora.

The current head of the Order is Grand Master Aleem al'Nazin.

There exists an uneasy allliance between the Order and the Kingdom. While the Order often pledges its troops to fight for the King, the Grand Master considers himself the King's equal. And since the Grand Master is also looked upon as the religious head, his favour cannot be lightly pushed away by the king.

The Order of Riga has its headquarters in Ednazim, about a week's journey south from Andora. The fort at Ednazim is considered to be the most impregnable.

Band of the Red Fist

This is perhaps the largest rebel organization in operation in the Lowlands. The band has grown so numerous and so powerful that it is like an eternally migrating city.

The current leader of the band is Masema Daghar. He has a price of a hundred gold crowns on his head and is wanted for mass murder in the Kingdom of Andora, which refuses to recognize the right of the Band.

Composed of both skilled and unskilled soldiers and peasants, the Band lives off the land, never staying in one place for too long, and often leaving behind a trail of destruction. The Band's goals are lofty, however, and they claim to fight for the rights of the peasants.

The Kulkul Tribe

They are a band of nomads who are frequently sighted by enterprising explorers in the Thur Desert. Known to be fierce warriors and sticklers of tradition, the Kulkuls do not mingle with the people of the Lowlands, contemptuously calling them 'Softlanders'. They are proud of their harsh way of life, and consider their life to be an eternal practice for the after-life.

Not much is known about the political organization of the Kulkul tribe and nor do they send emissaries of any kind. But it has been suggested that they are ruled not by a single man but by a council of powerful elders.

And, unlike the rest of the people, the Kulkul allow their women to fight alongside them.

The Pearl Islanders

The Pearl Islanders occupy the Pearl Archipelago in the Arth Ocean. They are largely fishermen ruled by elected chieftains.

The current head of the Islanders is High Chief Tangoom.

The Islands are known for its excellent pearls, marine life and sea-faring equipment. Regular trade ships ply between Andora and the Islands carrying fish, pearls to the luxury-loving lords of Andora.

Lowlands - Religion and culture

The people of the Lowlands are largely monotheistic, believing in an abstract deity called Marduk. Marduk has no visual interpretation and is often simply referred to as Light. Phrases like "Light help me!" and "You Light blasted fool" are examples of how this abstract entity has entered the speech of men.

The learned monks believe that the world's life force, or Ousia as they call it, is Marduk's blood. It is Ousia that flows through all living things and all elements. The monks are taught how to sense this force and control its flow. It is said that one who has control over Ousia has control over the life around him/her.

There are no temples to Marduk, nor any places of worship or rituals, as the people of Lowlands feel that all the world is Marduk's temple. The only exception is the first day of Summer, when people get together and celebrate the dawn of life by imitating the divine sipping of Ousia. On this day (which is commonly referred to as the First Day), peasants and nobles alike sip wine with their friends and talk about the glories of life. Of course, the spiritual symbols have long since been forgotten and the First Day is now only an excuse to get drunk and dance.

A note on naming conventions. Traditionally, men and women of noble birth are allowed to add an 'al' prefix to their family name, to denote its importance. Commoners and others do not have this prefix.

The City of Andora

Bulk of the RP will take place in the city of Andora, so it is a good idea to familiarize ourselves with the places of importance and the attitude of the city.

The City of Andora is perhaps the only official city in existence in the Lowlands, though the Order of Riga would object to that statement. It is true that Ednazim, the capital of the Order, is often called a city. But it does not come close to the numbers that dwell in Andora.

Apart from the King's palace, the Royal Court and the Nobles Quarter, Andora is home to the largest peasant market, called simply the Market. A busy dock is in operation on the river Erinelle that handles trade with the Pearl Islands.

Andora is a walled city, but no city can ever be truly walled. Labourers, peasants and various other artisans have expanded the city's borders and set up an almost secondary city outside the walls, while within live the high and mighty nobles of the land.

The City Patrol is responsible for maintaining peace and order within the city, while the King's Guards act as the personal bodyguard/army of the King. There is the larger Andoran Army, of course, and it is under a chain of command, going all the way up to the Lord Captain Commander who is answerable only to the King.

The nobles of the city have voting rights on various decisions that affect the economy and security of Andora. While succession is hereditary, the monarchs of the land do try to keep their nobles happy in case of a revolt.

Characters needed for the RP
(More characters will be put up once the initial list has been cast)

King Erimen al'Elmond (played by Acinonyx)

King Erimen is 50 years old and very ambitious. He sees in the chaos around Andora a golden opportunity. By uniting all the lands under him, he could resurrect the Empire to its former glory. Of course, it is a task easier said than done. King Erimen's Army is not as strong as he would like it to be, and without access to the rich mineral deposits to the north, he feels it is almost impossible to modernize and strengthen his army.

Princess Tamara al'Elmond

She is the only child of King Erimen and also the heir to the throne of Andora. A female succession is usually difficult at best, and she knows that her position is not secure. Twenty-one years of age, Tamara is beautiful, intelligent and kind-hearted. Her father is currently thinking of sending her to be educated for a few years by the Order of Riga.

Grand Master Aleem al'Nazin

He may be old, but he is cunning - and not to mention quite influential. He is often referred to as the most powerful monk alive and his control of Ousia is said to be legendary. There are many that wonder why the King tolerates the influence of the Order in his court, especially when that influence so often acts as an obstacle to the King's plans.

Lord Captain Commander Kirk al'Lazaer

Lord Kirk is the youngest Captain Commander of the army in the history of Andora, and with good reason. Trained under the legendary General Balwin, Lord Kirk al'Lazaer is an expert swordsman and a brilliant tactician. Despite smaller numbers in many skirmishes, he has won innumerable battles for the throne, even almost capturing the brigand, Masema Daghar. There are many that whisper that he has a more-than-normal friendship with the Princess Tamara, but none dare whisper where he can hear.

Lord Randol al'Taem

One of the nobles of Andora, Lord Randol is young, good-looking, and knows it. For years, the Taem house has been trying to maneuver themselves into the throne, and Randol believes the time is right to stake his claim. Everyone knows he is smitten by the Princess, and everyone believes it is only a matter of time before the princess falls for his charms. But what really goes on in his mind, only few can tell.

Lord Drogmir al'Tazar

Lord Drogmir is middle-aged and a widower who has never stopped mourning his wife whom he loved dearly. Drogmir is a bundle of contradictions. People near him say that he wrestles tigers in the afternoon and recites poetry in the evening. It can well be believed of him. Tall, broad-shouldered with strong forearms, Lord Drogmir is a wrestler. But with those intelligent eyes, he can see through most flimsy schemes.

Masema "Ironhand" Daghar

He is the leader of the revolutionary band called the Band of the Red Fist and is responsible for the loss of many lives and property, according to the Kingdom of Andora. Masema is the most wanted man in the Kingdom and he only gets happier with every increase in the bounty on his head. The only thing that doesn't make him happy is an ugly scar that runs down his right cheek, courtesy of the Lord Captain Commander Kirk al'Lazaer. Masema hopes to pay him back one day. Meanwhile, he is currently planning to take and hold the mines north of Andora and establish himself as a King. The peasants and labourers in his Band love him for his fiery speeches and his bold ideas, but there is also an equal number who hate him for the trail of destruction he leaves behind. For some reason, Masema never targets the Order monks, and none of the Order warriors are bothered about fighting him either. Of course, there are rumours that he and the Grand Master are together plotting, but they are only rumours.

To apply, pick an unclaimed character from the above list and write a sample post as that character. I would like to see how good you are in building on an existing construct. Don't focus on writing long. Instead, focus on being as imaginative as possible.

[acinonyx]

Touchme, I want YOU to pick a character. I do not know your writing style nor your psychological affinities. The sample you sent is, however, interesting. While I did say not to focus on the length, I do find your sample lean in content. But you have managed to bring out an atmosphere and an effect which I find very satisfying.

So, here's my suggestion: apply for Commander Kirk al'Lazaer. Edit your post, see if you can flesh out the scene a bit more. For instance, Kirk is a brilliant tactician. Try to bring out that nature in your words. How did he corner the enemy? What strategy did he use? What composition of soldiers is he using? How does he get into his enemy's shoes to figure him out? All these things will bring the character alive, I am sure. But these are only suggestions. Just dazzle me with what you have.

[Gunther]

Lord Drogmir al'Tazar
It had only been two years since the loss of his beloved Lucinda. She meant everything to him. Drogmir was a mere boy in more than a few noble's opinions, seventeen when he married Lucinda. Regardless of the arrangement of their union, Drogmir developed strong feelings for the pale blonde haired girl over the first two years of marriage. In fact, he initially resisted his parent's wishes to marry the girl. When he met her, he realized, it might not be such a bad thing after all, even with his reluctant feelings.

At 39, Drogmir moved around through life doing what was expected of him out of a sense of obligation to the Tazar house. After all, he is the current patriarch. Often times, Drogmir focused on a task in order to forget about Lucinda, if not temporarily. His son, Jarel, only twelve years of age, appeared to be very well adjusted with the loss of his mother. Children can accept change easier than adults can; or so they say. Jarel al'Tazar was typical of that quote. Occasionally, he admitted to his father that he missed his mother. It helped the elder al'Tazar to speak with his son about the loss. The father and son conversations were therapeutic to both.

Jarel enjoyed watching his father wrestle. He believed his father was the biggest, meanest and best fighter in the city of Andora. It brought a smile to the young lad's face to watch his mentor; friend and father wrestle with others of the city. His long arms contribute to his success as a pugilist as well, but experience tends to force Drogmir into physically grappling his opponent to the ground rather than stand toe to toe in an attempt to pummel someone into submission. Experienced wrestlers can provide opportunities for a quick victory over an aggressor. Using counter joint techniques and leverage, Drogmir has bested many foes.

"Son, what have you accomplished today?" Drogmir asked his only son, Jarel. This is a query, he made every day. Jarel expected it and occasionally he actually prepared for the question. He knew that his father wished for him to meet success in every goal he set. Setting goals and working hard to achieve the goal, is the key to success. It is unnecessary to establish far reaching extravagant objectives that may or may not be attained. It is better to establish attainable goals and perform tasks or train in exercises that build toward attaining these goals.

"Father, I ran around the walls of Andora today," the boy responded sheepishly unsure if his response would meet satisfaction from his father. Then he added, "ten times."

Drogmir took a bite from the meat on his plate, chewing slowly. He contemplated the response his son gave him. "Mind, body and spirit are necessary for the development of all men, including you, Jarel. Pay attention to all three equally. Neither is more important than the other. The exercise you completed today will help not only your body through building strength, but your mind as well. I find it mentally refreshing to run several miles at a time. It gets the juices flowing and works all the evil spirits out of your system. A nice long run helps to rejuvenate the soul, clear the mind and strengthen the body." Drogmir stopped speaking and swallowed another bite of his meal. "I do trust you intend to continue with this regimen of yours?"

"Yes, father," Jarel responded quietly. "I never looked at it the way you describe it, but I believe you are right." The boy continued to eat his meal. "Father, would you mind if I go out and play with my friends after dinner?"

"Not at all son. What sort of activity do you have in mind?" Drogmir remained interested in his son's life. He also wanted to know if he enjoyed similar pursuits as he did as a boy.

"We will probably play the hiding game," the boy asked. "I have tried to get them to recant poetry with me. From time to time they allow me to recite poetry to them, but none of them seem to be willing to write." Drogmir could tell his son was frustrated by this. He smiled realizing that his son was not very different from himself.

"Young boys need plenty of exercise. They need to run around, laugh, scream and use their imaginations. I encourage you to do so through your poetry and stories. Not everyone believes in that same method. It is fine that the other boys don't want to write, but at least they enjoy yours, correct?"

"Yes father." After dinner, the boy went outside to play while, Drogmir retired to his room to imagine life as a young boy; the carefree attitudes and exuberance of life. The notions motivated him to write, while Lucinda remained close in mind and heart.

[acinonyx]

Touchme - I strongly suggest you edit your post again. And that's mainly because of its readability. Reading does become very tedious when the sentences aren't ended properly. I am sorry if I come across as a grammar nazi, for I am sure enough nits can be found in my posts too. But this is how it stands - I am currently not satisfied with your post but would love to see you get it. For instance, it is important to maintain the theme of the setting in your posts. Words like 'outgunned' may be correct, but are not appropriate in a world where there are no guns. Otherwise, I have no problem with the content of your post.

Gunther - I love your sample post. You are in. Let me tell you a bit more about House Tazar so you can add more color to your already strong understanding of your character.

House Tazar is one of the ancient houses and was a steadfast ally of the Zokuran dynasty during the days of the Empire. Over the centuries, the two families have intermarried so much that it is hard to say how much of it is Tazar and how much Zakuran. It was indeed advantageous to remain Tazar, as every last Zokuran was found and summarily executed during the civil wars. The Tazars have, since then, transferred their loyalty to House Elmond and continue to remain in the ruling family's inner circle.

I look forward to crossing swords with you soon enough, Gunther. Welcome.

[Gunther]

Gunther - I love your sample post. You are in. Let me tell you a bit more about House Tazar so you can add more color to your already strong understanding of your character.

House Tazar is one of the ancient houses and was a steadfast ally of the Zokuran dynasty during the days of the Empire. Over the centuries, the two families have intermarried so much that it is hard to say how much of it is Tazar and how much Zakuran. It was indeed advantageous to remain Tazar, as every last Zokuran was found and summarily executed during the civil wars. The Tazars have, since then, transferred their loyalty to House Elmond and continue to remain in the ruling family's inner circle.

I look forward to crossing swords with you soon enough, Gunther. Welcome.

Would Zokuran be an appropriate family name for Lucinda? or is the execution of the Zokuran Empire so far back in time (150 - 200 years) that the family line would have ended before she was born? If not Zokuran, what about al'Elmond or some other suggested family name?